Folks, I think we're in a time of mini-Renaissance here. The first wave of blogs? Done. Everyone knows Kottke, the Pyra folks, and the like. I think we're witnessing the start of the 2nd wave of Really Good Blogs.

I provide two cases-in-point for you. First is dollarshort.org. The design is simple, yet memorable. The writing is personal and insightful, and there are the semi-required links. I'm finding myself turning to Mena's site on a frequent basis for updates now... it's addictive and good. Everything is in place here. You need to check it out.

Second, trubie.com. I found this through Cat's site, naturally, and at first didn't care for it much. But in just a few days' worth of entries I was hooked. Pop-up notes are used throughout and really bring a bonus to the writing. I think trubie.com reminds me of what personal sites used to be about: they include lots of neat things to play with, a heaping of personal info, and aren't too easily defined.

That said, I'm certain there are others, but these are the two I'm enjoying the most right now. Blogs aren't dead!