Well, my goodness, where to start!? Whew, I have finally caught up on my FML reading after a two week trip to the field to do some real dirt archaeology (I'm usually penned up in the archaeological lab at work). Paleface was suitably displeased that he could not join me in the field to help with the excavation efforts, but he vacationed nicely at "Grandma's" for the duration. Allow me to catch up as best as I can! DAYNA I could not bear the thought of that little one's pain. Bless you for your courage, strength, and compassion. Words are inadequate to express my thoughts. I wish the little guy a joyous recovery and a long and happy life. And just for my $.02, I love the name Paw Paw for him! What a wonderful suggestion! DICK B. Your rescue stories have been so inspiring! So often we hear of the unhappy side of rescue/shelter operation. It is uplifting to know that many of these sad stories have such positive endings. Keep 'em coming! (P.s.: I'm still reading! I'll get in touch with you soon re: the rabies quarantine efforts.) CHERE AND CO. Wow! One good story after another! Congratulations on the success of your efforts! It is great to hear that perserverence will pay off. You have worked so hard to bring about positive change. Thank you for working so hard for the ferret community. I believe the HSUS changes are indeed significant and noteworthy. CDFA AND CO. Congratulations! Congratulations! While you're not out of the woods yet, the forest is thinning! Shame, shame on your stupid governor, but hooray for the success that you have brought about thus far. You are another reminder that people can make a difference when they work together for a worthwhile cause. FINALLY, PALEFACE WILL HAVE A LITTLE BROTHER! Paleface (a.k.a. Bean) will soon have a little brother! I am so happy! He has been an only ferret for too long; he needs someone to look up to him! ; ) As some of you know, fellow FML'r, Meg, has been blessed with ferret babies. Soon, I will be taking one of them home to love and adore. If we (Paleface and I) hit it off with him, we will probably welcome baby Spike into our home. For those of you who haven't heard of him, he is an adorable little boy whose hair stands up (thus the name)! I feel especially fondly toward him because his health was a little touch and go at first. He needs extra love and care, and I hope to give it to him. I will welcome suggestions and advice from anyone and everyone regarding the introduction of a new baby to a more "mature" (but very gently and quiet) ferret. PITTSBURGH, PA AREA FERRET PICNIC The plans are in the works for a Pgh. area ferret picnic to be held on Sunday, June 23rd, from 1-4pm, probably at Schenley Park. Everyone is welcome. Ferrets are optional, but highly encouraged! Of course, you need not own a ferret to attend. The picnic is planned as an informal get-together with no specifically scheduled events. I will be bringing copies of the Mini-FAQ to distribute to anyone interested. Bring a drink and/or light snack if you would like. Of course bring food and water for the little guys. Leashes are required; some sort of a portable carrier is highly recommended. If you think that you would like to stop by, please e-mail or call me for details. We are still working out the exact location. Suggestions and/or help would be very welcome! You can reach me via e-mail at <[log in to unmask]> or by phone at (412) 643-9494 (eve/home) or (412) 788-2960 (day/work). Take care, all! Gina and Paleface (I'm gonna be a big brother!) [Posted in FML issue 1574]