Alright! OK! I give up! I thought my mailbox had gotten full before. Little did I realize... Good gobbledy-gook! Hang on, Newt, we're headed for the pea patch! - sorry, private joke. Look folks, I really DO need some time to get all of these stories out of my head and onto paper. I've even 'bowed up like a cut worm' and decided to try to get a book or three published. Time will tell and I sure could use the money. I was not prepared for all the responses to my decision to temporarily retire from the FML. I propose a comprimise. While I'm going to be spending most of my time trying to get some stuff on paper and off to publishers, I will TRY to send an occasional letter to the FML. No promises, but I will try. As far as all the personal mail is concerned, THANK YOU! Please don't get ill with me if I don't respond. I really must discipline myself to accomplish the task I have embarked upon. As far as the rumors that I have died or left the FML for good are concerned, don't believe them. I am still here and will read and cherish every word that anyone cares to send to me. I'll just be very BUSY for awhile. Huh!! Guess I'm turning into a ferret! Seriously, thank you for the concern and kind words. You folks are the best! I never realized that I would find so many good and true friends on this here pooter. I am truly happy and deeply humbled that the Father Chief - God, by whatever name you choose to call Him, or not - has allowed it to happen. Oh yes, this was Mee Maw's idea. For anyone who is intererested, we will send you copies of some of my stuff. WARNING! It's Science Fiction and poetry, as well as some other drivel. Thanks again for the love and kindness you have shown to an Old Man, his wife and two splendifurrous ferrets. Paw Paw (re-lurking now) Mee Maw - "Back to work, you hack!" Paw Paw - "Yes, dear." Tater - "Does this mean we get more time with Paw Paw, or is he just going to write about us?" Odie - "Hush and help me hide the box of raisins we stole." Thor - "I wish they'd quit dragging me around the room. The back of my neck HURTS!!" [Posted in FML issue 1544]