Michael Blowhard writes:

Dear Blowhards --

The last few days have brought some sad news in blogger-land: I was sorry to learn that Neil Kramer's dad has suffered a bad health blow, and I'm sorry as well to read that Alan Sullivan's recent health prognoses haven't been the good ones his fans have cheered for. (I'm very happy and moved that Alan has decided to continue blogging.) In their very different ways, Neil and Alan both contribute -- voluntarily -- a lot of sparkle and beauty to the blog-o-verse, this amazing new meta-medium. A sad fact of life: Generosity and pleasure take place, when they do, against a dark-toned backdrop. So why not click over to Neil's place and to Alan's place, and convey some good wishes?

Best,

Michael