Today's Wall Street Journal notes that a massive Al Qaeda attack was thwarted in Jordan recently. One so huge it wold likely have killed tens of thousands and quite possibly decapitated the government there.

While you contemplate and discuss the ramifications of that, I'll note that, other than stopping by periodically to give you all updates on the fundraiser (see below), I plan on being largely absent until Saturday or Sunday. I really need some rest, plus I have more work to do on the novel.

In my absence, I'll be turning the reins of power over to Ilyka Damen and, possibly, one or two other guest bloggers as well. Please give Ilyka a warm welcome, and have a great time.

And thanks once again for everyone who's helped us raise money for Spirit of America!

(Also, by the way, anyone who wants to sign up for cowplay and challenge a user named desmay, that would be cool, although he isn't all that good....)