You’ve Got to Have Friends

Today is an exciting day (well, actually yesterday, but I’m late in bringing it up) for a few friends of mine. One in particular, who has realized a longtime dream of a self-hosted blog. Which may not seem like much on the face of it, lots of people self-host and it seems it’s a natural progression once you’ve mastered the free hosting format.

But in my mind not all self-hosted blogs are created equally. Many of them are merely shells masquerading as blogs in order to monetize the owner’s life - some are just as blah as they were when they were free-hosted. This one is different. Perhaps because it is the result of vision and dreams and a labor of love.

In case you haven’t guessed, I’m talking about the new Smoke & Mirrors - captained by my good friend Michael. Many of you know him and his special way with words. He has let his readers in on some very personal aspects of his life and has provided (I think) new insights into a disease that ravishes many families worldwide - alzheimer’s. On the flip side, he has also provided us access to little known musical heroes, funny antecdotes and some really amazing poetry as well. His skills are enviable. So, if you’ve not visited him, then you should get your butt over there post-haste and discover him for yourself. He won’t disappoint and you’ll be hooked.

To help him along with his dream Moe and Kelly were there and at the ready. And after a very long week, they have created something that is utterly beautiful and even a little mysterious. A new home for Smoke and Mirrors and its readers. A place of solace and peace and beautiful words and images. Something truly Michael. I think they have somehow managed to manifest the man’s soul in this physical manifestation of this blog. It’s funny too, because to call it a blog doesn’t seem quite enough - because it will take your breath away.

Anyway, enough blathering - go take a look - make a comment or two or just peek through the windows. They’ll all be every so happy if you do.

Well done you guys - beautiful. Just beautiful. Friends are the best, aren’t they?