Wednesday, September 28, 2011

Bloggerly Opinions Needed

by Kiwi Sandro

UPDATE: After receiving a lot of wonderful advice, I have changed the blog back to my swamp photo to make it more reflective of JUJU'S CHILD. This is exactly how I picture the opening scene only with a Cyprus tree.

This morning Blogger had a new feature on my Dashboard. It asked if I wanted to try a new template. Hmm, try something new? Why not, I thought. So like a curious chimp, I started pressing buttons.

Half an hour later, I realized I'd totally ruined my blog. The formatting was off. I'd erased my swampy picture. I hated the new template. And worst of all, I didn't have a clue how to fix it.

An hour and a half later, inspiration struck.

Four hours later, this is the end product.

Do I like it?

Of course, I designed it. I used this picture my daughter had drawn for me on the computer for inspiration. After the dark colors of my old format, I think this is rather festive. However, what I think is pretty may not be practical. The object of the blog is to get people to stop by and read. That won’t happen if I scare you off.

So, I’m asking for opinions. A lot of you have beautiful blogs. What do you think? Is it alright? Too distracting?

So blinding it gave you a migraine just looking at it. Now you hate me?

Please let me know. I really appreciate any insight you have.
Thanks for your help.

P.S. If I haven't totally scared you off, and you're not a follower, please click on the follow link. Heck, even if you hate it, still clink on the follow link. I need all the constructive feedback I can get. I tally up the votes at the end of the week, then decide if it stays or goes.

P.P.S. Also, if anyone can teach me how to do those tabs at the top of the page, I’d be really appreciative.





Friday, September 16, 2011

Okay, I'm a tease.

To be fair, I did say the first chapter wouldn't be up long. To everyone who had the opportunity to read it, my thanks.

I want to give a shout out to my #WIPFTW buddies on Twitter. This wonderful group of writers came up with the idea, for those of us who needed a kick in the pants, to finish our work-in-progresses by November 1st.

I started Djinni in April, right after I finished Juju's Child. The main character Cairo has undergone quite a metamorphosis since the first chapter. She's matured from a slightly egocentric, spoiled brat into a layered and thoughtful character.

As I enter the final chapters of the manuscript, I'm quivering with excitement. I have no idea what's going to happen next. I have some idea, but this story tends to go off outline in pretty surprising ways. Luckily, I've always enjoyed the direction Cairo decides to go in.

I hope her character survives. Not everyone will (sorry Sarah, don't kill me)

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