What a treat it was -- better than raisins, even -- to meet some of the people I admire so much on the FML and lots of others, too. As my husband Eric (who never reads the FML) said, "I've never met so many nice people at one time." I knew how special ferret people are, of course, but it was nice to hear an outsider's impressions. I have a theory that makes lots of sense: anyone who spends their time helping others (with or without fur) is likely to be a special person to begin with, and then people who spend time loving ferrets have got to be fun besides. BIG and Ronnie were the best possible hosts, giving all their time in Orlando to being available to the rest of us. The hospitality suite which they kept open for us must have been a bit dull while the rest of us were off seeing WDW, but it seemed like their only desire was to make sure everyone else had a great time. BIG picked up people at the airport, drove them to their hotels, and never seemed to expect a thank you. If you buy Charles Onken's tape of the reception, that quietness and modesty of Bill's are genuine. You'll also get to see what a goofy group you belong to! What a crew! Also note what an excellent job Anne Ryan (Mrs. Duck) did of arranging a great location and a wonderful meal for us. Thanks Anne! If you couldn't be there, you should plan now to attend the next one. People were talking about doing it again in 5 years, so that should be enough time to save the money and find a ferret sitter. No kidding. If you saved $5 a week, you'd have $1300. And if our CA freedom fighters with the war, we may be meeting in conquered territory. That will be some victory to celebrate! [Posted in FML issue 2199]