The importance of touch can't be underestimated. It reduces stress, helps mental and emotional development and feels good.

I chose to attempt the World Record for most hugs in a 24 hour period because of a character I write, Audrey Rose. Audrey Rose is a free hugger, free lover and free bird. During a friend's gallery opening, I dressed up as Audrey Rose and offered free hugs. So many people participated, but one woman stuck out in my head. She hugged me and said "I really needed that today."

Save Audrey Rose has been created to help foster girl's love of the outdoors and writing, much as Audrey Rose has influenced me with her love of both.

Save Audrey Rose - Haiti - will be donating proceeds collected at Winter X Games for a young woman under 18 who writes and essay that captures the beauty of Haiti, the tragedy of recent events and offers a plan of hope for Haiti. This young woman will be awarded 90% of proceeds with the other 10% staying locally to help send Kris Hoffman to the Iditarod in 2011. Stay tuned for more info on how much money was raised, who will be chosenand summer Save Audrey Rose programs.