Last night, I had a panic... I left a comment on a blog. As usual, I had to sign in by naming "typepad" as my platform and putting in my profile ID. No big deal... After it had posted, I clicked on my own comment to go check in at my blog and fiddle around. But the link didn't take me to my welcome page. It took me to an inside profile page. That page, besides the way-too-close picture of me, only features my latest comments and doesn't make sense if you don't know what you're looking at...
GRRRRrrrrr. Yes, Typepad, I'm irritated.
SO. My question to you, my fellow blogging friends:
Which platforms have you used and how do you like them?
My wish list includes:
- Customizable header.
- Buttons for separate pages.
- Color for at least a side column or two.
- Stats charting.
HEP!!!
In other concerning news, I have writers's block...
To quote my very thirsty, seven-year-old nephew on a road trip, and the next rest area is 32 miles away, "What's gunna happen to me?"
I don't think I can help with the blog platform. My blog is attached to my website. It makes it easier for me and my readers to find me all in one place. I don't know if you want to have a website, too though.
Writer's block, huh? Sorry to hear that. Try doing something you enjoy. It may spark some creativity.
Posted by: Kelly Hashway | 05/18/2011 at 08:47 AM
Lori- I own my domain but use a wordpress template as my platform. I love wordpress BUT it is not without faults. Open source code is great, but since it's free it's not fully documented, thus there is a trial and error as you go. I prefer WP over all the other (but that is mean). Writer's block. I write every day with a virtual group to a random prompt, for instance, yesterday's prompt was 'family' - it doesn't mean you have to write about family, the point is you have to write something and exchange with a partner. There are all sorts of prompt books on Amazon, which might break the curse. I use music lyrics and lines from books when I am looking for inspiration. Also, try the 'The Artist's Way', it's a great guide for freeing your inner artist. Best,
Posted by: Brenda | 05/18/2011 at 11:19 AM
I totally commented on this. The interwebs ate it.
On platforms, I love Wordpress so far. You have to watch it on badges that use javascript (I believe there may be a workaround, but I haven't figured it out yet) there are a nice variety of templates, even more if you are willing to pay, and I really like that stats panel.
Agree with Kelly. You need some YOU time and the spark will return. Don't worry...it will come soon enough.
And if not, tell Jason to put you on a place to Florida and come hang out in the hammock. :)
Posted by: amber | 05/18/2011 at 01:19 PM
Kelly -- You are very insightful. How did you know I was just totally burned out? Too many obligations, no time to write. Down with day jobs! I appreciate your suggestion - right on target.
Brenda -- Great idea! I haven't tried any writing prompts for a while. Definitely will look up the artistic guide. Thank you for taking the time to give me these suggestions. Very kind!
Amber -- Alaska/Continental airlines and STEP ON IT.
Posted by: Girl Parker | 05/18/2011 at 02:20 PM
Glad you got some blog advice 'cause I got nothin'.
Re: Writer's block:
I second the motion for THE ARTIST'S WAY (Julia Cameron).
Take the lid off the pressure cooker.
Do what you can and enjoy yourself.
Writing is a good time, right?
Play with it, sistah.
I didn't write a thing for two weeks and that was just what I needed to start having fun again.
Posted by: Angi Hansen | 05/18/2011 at 04:10 PM