I support the writers, and I know that not all of them are sitting in the lap of multimillion-dollar luxury. However, I think writers pulling the strings of what should be a show of support from the fans is a misstep that lacks the spontaneity of previous, solely fan-generated campaigns. At the very least, I think Fans4Writers should have been the conduit for this, rather than United Hollywood.

That's been my feeling on the subject as well. I've been amazed and touched by all of the various fan efforts (including the lovely Buffista gift bags) but I've tried very hard to not participate or comment during the planning stages. It seemed weird to butt in and also? It felt inappropriate to say, "Here are the ways in which YOU can help ME."

ETA: Thanks, Polgara and Kat! I'm almost halfway to my goal. Happily, my weekly Friday morning picket line cheat doesn't seem to have derailed me.

In other strike related news, I love this blog post by Sera Gamble.

It reminded me of a conversation I had with Polgara once. I think it was probably last year between the time Tim said he wanted to hire me and when I finally started work. There was some big lottery jackpot and Polgara was going to buy a ticket. And I said that I couldn't buy a ticket because I'd rather have a job and I didn't want to use up all my luck.

This is also a story about how awesome Polgara is because she didn't tell me that I was overly superstitious and, also, insane. Even though I totally am.

I just finished a red scarf - done while watching SG: Atlantis and House. Now I'm wishing I had a cute little fabric tag that says "Lovingly Made By: A Fan Who Supports The Writers" or something equally maudlin.

I just posted a letter to Joss at Whedonesque. I think I made an ass out of myself, but I was thinking about what Monique was saying, and I think she's right about it being a weird situation.

I asked Joss that he and his fellow showrunners match the fans, dollar to dollar, and send it on to the solidarity fund for crew people. I mean, they're really fucking rich, and if they're asking us to open our pockets on their behalf, then...you know?

It's different when we think up crazy shit and do it on our own.

And, I think that it's way more encouraging to send a box of pencils when you know that you're also making the holidays a bit better for out-of-work crew people.

Still, I think I made an ass out of myself and expect to be tossed out of fandom on my ass.

I really like that idea a lot, Allyson. I hope they do it.

Thanks, Kristen. I felt like an idiot typing that all out. I don't want anyone to feel shitty, and don't know how to phrase it all better.

I think it's a great idea, Allyson. I would definitely throw a little pencil money in there (because I would like to be a part of The Statement and all) if I knew it would indirectly benefit the people who actually need money right now.

I just read it and I think you did fine. I hope that the suggestion is taken in the spirit intended. Maybe it'll turn out like the lunch thing and everyone will go, "That's such a great idea! Thank you for thinking of it!" Because you really do have a great idea here.

Looks like it's got a lot of support.

I think it's great, Allyson. I support the writers, but have been more inclined to spend money on those in greater need. This would allow me to vote with my dollars and feel better about it.