However, I’ve got some very sad news to share.  Everything else can wait.

Joel was killed in a terrible car accident last week.

Most of the people who read this blog probably know Joel in some way or another.  I know him from Ravelry.  He was the founding member of the S.M.A.C.K.group.  I met Joel when I joined S.M.A.C.K.  He was friendly, and very welcoming.  He went out of his way to make sure everybody was included.  He encouraged participation.  He set up several “SMACKtivities” to keep people entertained.  He really created a community.

A few weeks ago, Joel made me a S.M.A.C.K. moderator.  The only instructions he gave me were to make sure the message boards stayed clean, and to greet new members and make them feel welcome.  I’ve never seen any posts that were inappropriate in the group, and I suspect there haven’t been any.  The reason he wanted more moderators, was to make sure everyone who joined, or visited, felt welcome and included.

I didn’t know Joel for very long, and I didn’t have time to get to know him well.  I know he grew up a few miles from where I live now.  His parents live very near me.  I know he left behind a wife and two children.  I can’t speak for everyone, but the Joel I knew was a good man who cared for others. 

Joel, I’m going to miss you.  I know many others will miss you as well.  I can’t begin to imagine the loss your family is feeling right now.  I hope that they will continue on the best they can, and I send them my deepest condolences.