After all the struggles with my little Ayida, she unfortunately passed on last Wednesday. I was unable to get the approximately $300 back that I paid for her but was able to get a dumb store credit. After all was said and done, we figured that she was let go far too early and probably wasn't feeding like the breeder had stated before she was sent to the store. As a result, I've decided *not* to attempt another Western for a while and instead, since this beautiful little Ball python seemed so eager to come home with me, that I would adopt "him" instead. Not much I could do since I couldn't imagine loosing that kind of money after so much stress and heartache. He's a cutie and seems to be adjusting well to his new home.
In closing, I'd just like to thank all of you who supported and offered tips when I was freaking out about my beloved Ayida. I just thought some of you would like to know how things turned out. 
Thanks again to all those who replied and helped me when I had no where else to turn. 
I'll be over on the Ball Python forum with updates and hopefully pictures of my new little guy....
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Know first, who you are, then adorn yourself accordingly....Epictetus
