Your big chance to become an Internet icon!

It doesn't happen very often, but once in a while I write (or link to) a post that evokes an emotional response (tears) from some of my readers.  Each time this happens at least two or three people will leave a comment saying something to the effect of "You should have a 3-tissue warning on that post!"

The first couple of times I read this suggestion I liked it enough to go poking around the on web for a little icon I could use to warn people to drag over the tissue box before proceeding.  Unfortunately, the few icons I found were pretty lame.  Beside, I don't make a habit of writing tear-jerkers... so I never expended much time or effort trying to track down an appropriate icon.

I know what some of you are thinking; "You're married to a kick-ass graphic designer... why not ask her to design you some icons?"  The answer to that unasked question is: Yes, my wife is a very talented graphic designer (she designed the nifty banner you see at the top of my journal), but I have to be a bit circumspect about how often I mooch free design services off of her.  She's crazy busy most of the time... and she also pretty much considers me the worst possible 'client' on the planet.

So... I'm throwing it out to all of you budding artists and Internet sleuths. 

If you can design or track down a small, simple icon that can be used to preface an emotional post, I will be deeply indebted to you (meaning I'll think of an appropriate way to thank you).

If more than one person sends in an icon for consideration I'll post them all and let everyone vote for the winner.  Just one request... if you 'borrow' an existing image from somewhere (rather than designing an original one), please either secure the owner's permission to use/distribute it or ensure that it is legally considered 'public domain'.

While you're at it, if anyone wants to submit an appropriate icon I could use in order to warn readers of an impending rant... that might be helpful too.  :-)

Icon submissions can be emailed to treppenwitz AT gmail DOT com.  Deadline for submissions is Thursday, March 16th.