It's been a learning experience, that's for sure. Fingers crossed that my rankings return, and I appreciate everyone taking the time to comment on the subject. It's interesting to read your thoughts.

Thanks also for the well-wishes. 

Danny,

That's up to you whether you think I'm telling the truth or not. It's just that I see many, many popular blogs using TLA and selling advertising, and they seem to have 'followed' links, yet no word of any penalty.

I thought that by publishing my blog post I'd bring the subject a little more attention. Granted, it's a drop in the ocean compared to the reach that Matt Cutts has, but if I wasn't reading his blog, I imagine some of my readers weren't either.

Matt S.,

Glad you find something of interest on my blog, and thanks for reading buddy. 

Andy, Lyndon,

I'm about to publish an article about my own Google penalty, where I thank you both for helping me out. I wish I knew more about the Google terms of service, or at least received a warning before action was taken.