Just stopping in with a quick update

Right now, I am sitting at the shelter table at the Morphicon Convention in Columbus, Ohio. This has been the most wonderful experience.

I did a panel or discussion on Ferrets as Pet. Unfortunately, I didn't have a ferret with me, the hotel wouldn't allow live animals. This in itself was a terrifying experience for me.

I always have the cute, cudlely ferret to draw attention, in essence, I hide behind the ferret. The people made me feel very welcome and comfortable. I tended to ramble, and tell them about ownership, mishaps, importance of a good vet, feeding and the such. Opened to questions, and had several VERY INTELLIGENT questions asked.

I had the pleasure to meet people from all walks of life, all age groups. This is an amazing group of people.

To be honest, this is the first time when I have been dealing with people outside of the ferret community that I DID NOT have to defend ferrets as pets. I didn't have to fall into the "witch" with snide comments, and nasty come backs.

Twelve years. It has taken twelve years to be somewhere there has not been one mean, nasty comment.

Even doing school education programs, the scout education programs, nursing home visits, and hospice visits, you run across those few who have to be nasty, and think that they know everything about ferrets, when they are just going on rumors, or old information.

I cannot express my gratitude to this group sufficiently. It is an honor to have the shelter chosen as their charity, and an honor to meet so many diverse, intelligent, wonderful people.

Thank you so much.

Jean aka Shelter Wench

PS The building is still going to happen, we have to put things off by one month for the architect who is working closely with the Parma Building Department to make sure the whole demolition, and build goes smoothly with out a hitch.

Yes, I am looking forward to the demolishing. Maybe we should have a party to celebrate when it happens? Any volunteers to help make that happen?