Hello: I have been lurking on this list for about two weeks now, and wish to thank all of you for the wonderful stories about your ferrets. About three months ago, I had to euthanize my 8 year old sable, Monster. One month later, her 8 year old companion Gonzo also died. I think she just gave up because she missed Monster so much. They had been togher most of their lives. My husband and I decided that was it for ferrets in our household, and so I stored the toys and the cage. A co-worker and his wife recently bought a baby ferret. When he told me about the unusual pet he had purchased, I showed him the coffee cup I still drink out of which sports a picture of Monster poking her head out of a barrel of dark purple Lobelia. We started exchanging ferret stories and advice. Co-incedentially (or maybe someone is trying to tell me something), I came across this mailing list. I joined and started reading. The stories were so familiar and touching, I realized I hadn't properly grieved for Monster and Gonzo and that I miss them terribly (my keyboard is in jeopardy of shorting from all the tears). I believe I will unpack that cage and the toys. I have lived with ferrets for 18 years now, and they bring something special to a home that I have found with no other pet. Thanks for your help and hopefully, soon, I will be able to share my stories about Monster, Gonzo, and the next new member of our family. Kathy P.S. I live in CA, so I am sending this Annon. just in case I do get another. [Posted in FML issue 1540]