As co-manager of an apartment complex I attended a Christmas Party that we had for the children in the complex. A lot of the families here have low income levels and are on housing assistance. We planned to have treats, snacks, food and beverages. Contacting some local businesses help us to create goody bags with fruits for all who attended. Naturally, since it was a childrens party, and since I consider myself a "Fuzzy Ambassador" : ) , how could I go without bringing a "child" of my own? Since I expected a lot of noise and commotion, I decided to bring HERSHEY, my mild mannered chocolate fert that I had gotten from the Oregon Ferret Shelter. Problem was HERSHEY was not used to wearing a harness or lead. Well, after a little coaxing (an a lot of ferretone) HERSHEY finally succumbed to my foolish hooman whim.("Ok dad. But the silly elf hat is STILL out of the question!!!" <sigh>). Well, HERSHEY, without a doubt, stole all the attention. He loved it all up as each and every kid wanted to pet and stroke him. Even the adults, many who have never seen a ferret, came flocking over with questions and comments. Several of our tenants were amazed to actually see and pet a ferret. A few more disclosed that they were had once owned ferrets. A few thought they were "illegal" or required special licenses. Some wondered how pets could be allowed in a complex with a "No Pets" Rule. I explained that the various laws that allowed "Assistive Animals" with a doctors prescription in certain cases. Yes, I have a prescription for my ferts (Hmm, wonder if they're covered under my health plan??). Even the Jolly Old Elf, Santa, could not supress his chuckling when HERSHEY reached up and stole a cookie from my mouth (mmmmmm, oatmeal raisan !!!). I allowed some of the children to come outside with us and romp with him. It was a little cool and damp, but all seemed to have a blast. Sheesh, I can almost imagine some of the kids will be coming to the office asking, "Can HERSHEY come out and play???". Kevin B and the ~~Silly~Slinky~Seven~~~ ~Furrice~Simon~Hershey~Lacy~Socks~Sprite~Cuddles~ ~Fur-Angel Lady~ ~Petey (just dookin' through)~ and Kimo the Sumo Cat [Posted in FML issue 2527]