Ode to M'Lady (and Her Kin)

Well, not my lady as it were, because for one night a year (and the year's worth of days that it takes to pull the damn thing together), this lady belongs to all of Austin.

Call it a blow job; I'll continue to call it a blog – no matter – please indulge me as I wax in honor of a dear friend for one moment. Of course I speak of mentor, soul-sister, and Austin Music Awards maven Margaret Moser.

Seventeen South by Southwests ago, we officially met – having known of each other for years – and bonded over the Velvet Underground under the looming escalator at the Hyatt on Town Lake, where SXSW used to be housed.

Last night was her night in the sun, if you will. Every year the Music Awards hit some sort of local pinnacle, and Margaret is to be acknowledged as the reason for the season, but last night, a-buzz with the raging super group of Mac, Scrappy, Mark, and Pete (yes I said Pete, in case you haven't yet heard), the lady hit an altogether new stride. Here's a happy picture taken moments after the "moment."

As my crew and I bolted up the back stairs of the Convention Center knowing we were within minutes of missing (what was up until that point only rumors of) Pete, we ran into my sassy co-conspirator, dear friend, and Margaret's baby bro Stephen MacMillan Moser, who hugged and cheek-kissed and was gracious as ever. Stephen saved us (he has his ways), and we managed to get to the front just in time.

I know what I say next will sound so ingratiating, but I assure you, it is from the bottom of my heart. These two fabulous powerhouse pals are the reason I am here doing what I do in Austin. And I offer thanks everyday. Their kindnesses over the years have made me, make no bones about it.

Thank you, Mosers. Austin wouldn't be quite the same without you.