Barbara, thanks for the mention of Dawn. Many authors and even non-authors might be unfamiliar with King's The Haven Foundation - thehavenfdn.org/. King was struck by a car in 1999 while walking along roadside and had a long struggle to get back to where he could write again. King was unfortunate in the accident; fortunate that he is one of the 15% of writers that make enough money to have insurance and savings to fall back on. Sad fact: most authors, especially new authors, don't get high advances, and it can be two to three years before they start seeing the bulk of their royalties. What happens if they are hit with illness, disease or a disaster and they don't have insurance or savings? It can be a very rough situation they face. King has, like an angel, fought to bring forth The Haven Foundation. It's an organization where authors and freelance writers who are struck by extraordinary circumstances and have no place to turn for help can see aid in grants. It's an amazing gift of love and compassion, and as you note, The Haven Foundation is considering Dawn Thompson for a grant. Yes, she has eight books out, but it will be 2009 on many of them before she see royalties. No aid from her family, no place to turn, I am hoping The Foundation finds her case worthy of their help. All authors need to make themselves acquainted with this very worthy charity. I am sure they would be open to donations. Sometimes we have to step outside of government agencies that fail to deliver what is needed. So hats off to King for his compassion and dedication to seeing this foundation has come into existence.

Dawn Thompson is an auto-buy for me. I am sorry to hear that she is not well and wish her God Speed.

Thanks for the shout-out. You're always welcome to play at our place. Props to Stephen King for setting up the Haven Foundation and I'm keeping my fingers crossed that Dawn Thompson gets the grant. And my thoughts go out to Dawn. LOL! My verification letters are NFL - funny since you mentioned Brett Favre.

My high-fives go to: All the veterans in my life: my hubby, my dad, my brother, my late great uncle, my father-in-law. The Cowboys! For that awesome win!!!

Kristen, thanks for the reminder. I thought of Veteran's Day all day yesterday and then forgot to mention it in the blog. Duh!! So, I'd like to add my 2 handed high fives to all the men and women who serve our country.

High Five to all the men and women who serve now and in the past. I learned something new today -- The Haven Foundation. Kudoos for helping those in need. Thanks for reminding me to check out The Playground. It's been a while since I last visited. Yeah!!!! to Sherri for making it to #1

Thanks for keeping us posted on Dawn. And a huge congrats to Sherri for making #1!! Also, heading over to check out the terrific writingplayground blog now. Very exciting about their birthday!

Yes, Go Pack Go. We'll make believers out of the rest of the country at some point.

Thanks for the shout-out! I can't believe we're almost two years old. I'm going to have to check out the Haven Foundation--this is the first I've heard of it.

I just picked up Kenyon's "Upon a Midnight Clear" and plan to make that my next read ... once I'm done with Hamilton's "A Lick of Frost". Best thoughts for Dawn. Her books rock. That's one fear that I have. I'm currently covered by hubby's insurance, but someday he'll retire and we'll have to have something lined up. Wish there was a policy that authors/artists/free lancers can pool under. There used to be such a type of policy for small businesses but think it was done away with. Pity.

Oh, and WTG Packers! That team is just smokin'!

Thanks for the shout out, Barbara! It's been an amazing 2 years and one of the major highlights was meeting you! Congrats to Sherrilyn on #1. And I'm keeping Dawn in my thoughts and prayers. I'd never heard of Haven Foundation either until today but I just went to the site and appreciate the great need they are filling.

A special high-five to some of the older vets, who tend to get overlooked. I'm off to visit my mom's assisted living residence, which is having a special day to honor men and women who served! - Clea www.cleasimon.com

This a lot of info I never knew about Congrats to Sherrilyn and the Writing Playground (cute site). I've never read Dawn's book, but I'll be sure to pick one up. Best Wishes.

Another author I need to try. Congratulations Sherrilyn and the Writing Playground. And Go Packers!!

WooHoo! Way to go Brett! Was too sick to watch the game this weekend, but I ALWAYS support the Packers. They were my team growing up and they're STILL my team!!!

The Haven foundation came in to see Dawn today. Spent an hour and a half assessing her needs that will speed her back to normal. Caring bunch. Originally they were set for the board to met about her case on November 26, but King is in NY and will meet with the board tomorrow!! The wonderful lady, Margaret Moorehouse, who leads the fact finding team has been so super to work with, so prompt in handling the case. So BIG high five for King, Moorehouse and The Haven Foudadtion.

Deborah, that is terrific news. Keep us updated. Dawn is in our thoughts.