I, too, wanted a ferret for a long time. There was a very sweeeeet little girl at one of the local petstores, but at $120 I really couldn't afford one.
I saw a Sugar Glider on TV one day, and thought "Oh!! That is the CUTEST animal I have ever seen!!". After some research, I thought "Well, they take a lot of work (or so it seemed to me anyway ) and the bonding thing...how does one go about that?" I decided against getting one.
Then one day we got a rattie. He was such a sweetheart and loved everyone except the cat, who liked to bug him when his cage was brought out to be with the family.
He sadly passed away on March 9th '00 in my arms. I miss him terribly.
On March 23rd '00 our "Troublesome Duo" came to live with us. They where rescued from a feeder bin. They are such sweethearts!!

A rat might seem a little odd to you as a pet, but really they make wonderful pets, and lots of ratties need homes so they won't be snake food
They don't take a lot of work, don't smell, and are great "Pocket-Pets" and family pets. As was said, they are smart, clean, and playful. Always happy to see you!
They should be kept in pairs or groups, as they are very social creatures and need company.
Anyway, that's just my oppinion

Best of Luck!!!!

~Giglez and the Troublesome Duo