Apr 20, 2015 / Community Pool

Community Pool

The place for advice, feedback, and friendly blogging conversation.

Photo by <a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/redjar/8402178817">redjar</a> <a href="http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/2.0/">(CC BY-SA 2.0)</a>

Have you just published a new post and are dying for some feedback? Did you recently start your blog and could use some layout or design advice from your more seasoned peers?

Tap into the wisdom of The Daily Post blogging community and leave your question here in the comments. Others can then click through and offer input either on your site, or in the comments here (feel free to indicate which you’d prefer).

To help us make the Community Pool a productive space for discussion, here are some tips you might find useful:

TIP: To keep from losing your place in the comment thread while you visit others’ blogs, right-click on a link to open it in a new tab or window.

  • While you’re not required to, we encourage everyone who requests feedback to also reply to at least one or two other bloggers who need some help. Spread the love!
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      2. Hi! So I happened to see your comment on here and decided to look at your blog. I LOVE your post about basketball and hockey! I’m literally the same way, but I gave up sports when I went to college. Your writing is awesome as well, nicely done! I’m gonna follow!

        Liked by 1 person

    2. A very nice blog… I would suggest one thing.. maybe you can customize your widgets because I am distracted to the widgets… You need to command the readers to just focus on your posts…

      Hope this helped! 🙂

      Liked by 2 people

      1. I really enjoy the variety of things you choose to post! Instead of sticking to one, you could keep a reader on their toes just by posting things that aren’t similar in content which is always keeping things interesting! I like your blog very much!

        Liked by 2 people

      10. Hey Jerrod, I see your efforts in the comments section, reviewing people’s blog. I’m busy now but please respond to my reply so that I can have a notification from you and I will visit your site later for an honest review. Stay awesome bud.

        Cheers 😉

        Your pal,
        David Long

        Liked by 1 person

      12. Hey Jerrod, just gone through your blog and here are my thoughts bud:

        I like how clean and organized everything is. The layout of pages of all been well thought off. Awesome.

        Though I noticed something missing. A lack of images. I feel that if you start using images for your posts, your blog will look more “Professional” or livelier. Just my opinion though, seeing how you’re a writer, it might actually be a personal choice of yours to just utilize words.

        That being said, I like your writing style too bud! It’s unique and you can definitely sense that it’s different from the usual bloggers’ way of writing. Not sure how I can explain it in any other way so hope you understand what I meant haha!

        Either way, main point, things look good. Keep up the good work 😉

        Your pal,
        David Long

        Liked by 1 person

      15. Hello David! And please review my blog. It would made me my best! Thank you for that, David! You’re awesome!

        Liked by 1 person

    3. Hey! I love your blog. I’ve had a good look at your posts, bearing in mind that you’d take creative criticism, but it’s hard to find where you are going wrong. I feel like you’re doing it right, it feels as though a reader can gain a connection with you just through a post! Even if some posts are lengthy, they aren’t boring. You structure everything well and it seems easy to get to know you because what goes on in your head you express well, even if you think nobody else can understand it. Hope this helped (even though there was nothing I found for you to improve on)! x

      Liked by 2 people

      5. Nicely reviewed.
        Rebecca, do me a favor and leave a respond to my comment. I’d like to do a review your blog but because I’m busy now I can’t.

        If you respond to my comment, I will receive a notification and I can refer to it later. Hope to hear from you. Cheers 😉

        Your pal,
        David Long

        Like

      6. Hey David. Very well! Thank you for showing your interesting in viewing it that is kind, hopefully you have a tiny bit of spare time to end up taking a look, I would really appreciate whatever you have to say!
        Rebecca

        Liked by 1 person

      7. Hey Rebecca, I tried to access your blog but was told to request for access lol!
        I’m guessing you’re currently working on the site and made it private?

        But regardless, I’ve already sent the request so when you’ve given me the approval, just let me know here 😉

        Your pal,
        David Long

        Like

      9. Just reviewed your blog Rebecca. Here are my thoughts.

        I love it.
        First, the design and layout of everything is clean, it’s very easy to and pleasing to the eyes. Very important.

        Next, I find your style of writing very intriguing for some reason. I love the expressions you use, especially the bit with Heidi Klum and Tyra banks haha! That post is brilliantly written. I like your friend, Nicole, too. You two sound like a cool duo to hang out with.

        Something I felt was missing, is the lack of “About Me” Page. It’s usually what visitors go to first in their very first visit. Just to find out who they are “Listening” to and whose “House” they’ve just entered. This is one of the deciding factors for retaining them as well. If your story connects with your reader, chances are, they will want to know more about you, what you are all about and what you have to say.

        My suggestion? Set up an “About Me” Page asap!

        A comment on the post with the ‘Strip Club’. The words are very congested. Maybe you were writing on mobile or you forgot to do this but anyway, if you can, try to separate the sentences into different paragraphs or line to allow a more comfortable reading experience for your readers. Every other post I’ve read is fine though, just this one so I’m guessing its probably caused an error somewhere.

        You can also look into having more than one “Blog” category. Consider creating pages or categories dedicated to:

        1. Adventures with your pal.
        2. Movie experiences or reviews.
        3. Etc, other stuff you can think of.

        It should be easier for people to navigate to the “File” which contains all the blog post on the topic that they’d be interested in checking out.

        Considering your current blog’s theme/subject is on life and its ambiguous, you probably will have a lot to write about lol. Let your imagination run wild 😉

        Place an “Archive” Widget somewhere too. This allows future readers to view your past/old posts!

        But of course, keep in mind, you don’t have to take my word fully. These are just my opinion and suggestions. Things I would do personally.

        Overall, I like how your blog is progressing. The direction its headed. Keep doing whatever you are doing. I am excited for you and your blog’s prospect 😉

        If you got more questions you’d like to ask etc, feel free to just respond here or send me an email via doubleyourpresence@gmail.com

        Hope you’re having a sweetly awesome Friday bud!

        Your pal,
        David Long

        Liked by 1 person

      10. Hey. Thank you ever so much as that is the most useful feedback I have had as of yet and I love every part of it. I feel flattered at your comments in my layout and writing style, especially my style as that is of great importance to me.. I’d love for you to hang with us, haha. Test whether we are better written or in reality!
        With the “About Me” page, I’m currently sorting it out. Hopefully
        it all goes to plan!

        As soon as that’s done, I’ll get on to that post to split it up a bit and make it easier to read.

        I’m new to all of this so I’m oh so grateful for this help, advice and creative criticism as it is necessary. I’ll make sure all of this is done before Monday or something so I can start with my new and improved blog next week!

        Thank you very much, I will probably be in contact! Appreciate your time.

        Your good friend,
        Rebecca

        Liked by 1 person

      11. Not a problem bud, glad to have made a difference. It’s good that it made you even more motivated and inspired to work on your blog I mean, you’re here for a reason and you are, at this moment, working towards making that vision come true. Beautiful.

        I’ll be looking forward to more contents coming from you and am excited at your prospects for sure. No need to rush things but if you are fired up to get things done? Good! Use the momentum to soar even further!

        We will be in contact. Stay awesome, stay inspired Rebecca.

        Your new friend,
        David Long

        Liked by 1 person

      7. dear loudthoughtsvoicedout, your post on randomness is very interesting. there are times when you are utterly bored, trying to sleep, in the loo, listening to a boring lecture, watching a bad show or just staring at the wall lol that you come up with some wonderful quotes of your ow, ideas, saying so surprisingly philosophical. this way it would help to keep a note of them all.

        Liked by 2 people

      9. As a Beginner , Not sure if Im doing this right, That really means a lot.. thank you so much. I will also follow as I saw your blog and it was very nice. I started reading, and when Im done sending this message Im going back to finish..:)

        Liked by 2 people

    5. I enjoyed reading some of your posts. Couldn’t read all of them since I was on my lunch break but most definitely will. I love the color scheme it was not “boring” or “busy” it was a picture of perfect colors.

      I just started this whole blog thing and would love some advice. I actually write on two different forums. The first one is my own personal thought dump tank and the other is a blog written in my dog’s POV.

      If you would like to visit them please visit at https://kildanlove.wordpress.com/

      you can find the link to my other blog on there.

      Thanks again!

      Liked by 2 people

    7. You write well and its seems like you post about a wide range of topics. I don’t have much criticism, just keep writing. I really enjoyed reading your most recent post, The Monsters Behind Masks. 🙂

      Liked by 1 person

    9. Hey! I really liked your recent post, it opened my eyes to a lot of things I never thought of before. And really good writing too! 😀 I’m gonna follow!

      Like

  2. Hello friends!

    I’ve changed the look of my site and my about page a little bit so if anyone could give me feedback on that that would be wonderful!

    I also posted a new piece called “I Am A Vulture.” If I could get advice on that it would be greatly appreciated!

    https://biancamblogs.wordpress.com/

    And as always if you want advice on your blog I would be more than happy to take a look! 🙂

    Thanks,
    Bianca 🙂

    Liked by 4 people

    1. It’s always a pleasure reading your poems! And while I was reading “I Am A Vulture” I felt motivated after reading it! I don’t know what I feel motivated to do, but after reading your words of determination I can’t help but feel prepared to face the world. And I think anyone who takes the time to read it and listen to what the poem says, they will feel the same way. And your new look is great! I love how it is clean and easy to read but has a nice pop of color at the top and in the follow button.

      Liked by 4 people

      2. Hey Chelsea, I see your efforts in reviewing other people’s blog and I’d like to review yours for you. I’m busy now so I can’t but please leave a respond to my comment so that I’ll receive a notification and I will follow up later on it.
        Stay inspired bud!

        Your pal,
        David Long

        Liked by 1 person

      4. Hey Chelsea, I just finished reading your blog and here are my thoughts.

        It’s simple, it’s clean and very easy on the eyes. The color choice and layout of things suits your personality and it gives the reader a very relaxed feeling during their visit. Awesome that you achieved this!

        I love how you’re fighting on with this issue of yours as well as the ambition to want to help others similar to you. You have my support, just want you to know that.

        Btw, I recently posted something which I think you might be interested to take a look. It’s not mandatory nor necessary but I just thought it might be something nice for you to read.

        http://doubleyourpresence.com/2015/04/14/reducing-mental-health-stigma/

        Keep up the good work, stay awesome Chels!

        Your pal,
        David Long

        Liked by 1 person

      6. Npm bud! I am actually happy to have helped 😉
        If you do visit my site, drop me a “Hi” somewhere, I’d love to know that you’ve visited!

        Till then, I hope you have an awesome weekend ahead bud!

        Your pal,
        David Long

        Like

      1. Thank you for commenting! I have taken a look at your site and I like your blogs theme! (Obviously because I have the same one!) I think on the side bar you should add a follow button but other then that it is a very nicely laid out site and It’s visually pleasing! I have followed! 🙂

        Liked by 1 person

    4. I love your blog “I knew we were not meant to be.” It was powerful and really hit home within my personal life.

      I just started this whole blogging thing. I would love the advice from a season blogger. If you would like to visit my blog, you can visit
      https://kildanlove.wordpress.com/
      I write a second blog through the POV of my Chihuahua girl Bella. The link to that blog can be found on the main blog.

      Like

    5. I really enjoy how streamlined and modern you blog looks. I would suggest a larger or bolder font, I was squinting at some points to read but other than that….OUTSTANDING!

      I Am Vulture is quiet visual when reading it. I found myself smiling along with the vulture as it squeezed.

      Liked by 3 people

    6. Hi Bianca, nice to see you again on the community pool! 🙂 I love your blog’s new look it makes it easier to navigate and perfectly fits with your writing. The colors are vibrantly happy. I love it!

      Liked by 2 people

  3. Happy Monday to all!

    For anyone that doesn’t know my stuff (most likely most of you!),I have been writing a lot of poetry lately, and I think I might be getting a bit of poetry ‘tunnel-vision’ and writing things as poems when they might be better in another form. My latest post is on how experiences shape the way you are and I’d love to hear some thoughts if you think it works as a poem, or if it would be better as prose instead for example.

    Anyway, you can find it here at my blog ‘A Hopelessly Wandering Mind’:

    Impressions

    Much appreciated as always and I’d love to help people with any specific questions they have on their own posts as well.

    Much bloggy love,
    Ben

    Liked by 6 people

    2. Hello blogging buddy!

      You know I like your writing, you have a beautiful way of saying things! I think if you want to mix it up maybe doing poetry that is less formal? And honestly I think you should change your blogs theme and adding pictures? It’s just a thought!

      Bianca

      Liked by 2 people

      1. Hi!

        Yes, I’ve been thinking about using a different theme for a while, but I just need to decide which one!
        As for less formal, do you mean in style or in language. I fear it may just be how I speak if you’re talking about linguistic choices, but it’s worth thinking about for sure 😛

        Ben

        Liked by 1 person

      2. I meant in style I think you might be having a hard time with your new poetry because you’re sticking to a specific format. If you loosened it up a bit you might find your writing might flow more.

        Like

      3. Yeah, I’m not struggling with the writing itself as such, it flows quite nicely when I sit down and do it, it’s just sometimes I feel I’m writing poetry for the sake of it, when I cold easily write it as prose and it might be better, if you see what I mean? Thanks for the advice either way 🙂

        Like

    4. Hey man, congratulations on moving in to poetry, it’s not an easy transition to make from other forms of writing! Your lexical choice is really good, and that poem “Home” is wonderful, you manage to rhyme without sounding cheesy, which is no mean feat. The only real criticism i’d give is maybe try and include more specific detail in your writing; big ideas are great, but they can be hard to relate to without your personal experiences being put in to them! Also, rather than centering all your poetry, try aligning it with the edge of the page, so it’s easier to mess around with line lengths and space and stuff. Other than that, keep up the good work 😀

      Liked by 2 people

      1. Thanks, that’s definitely good advice, I appreciate it a lot. I guess I’m still trying to find my style to a certain point. I’ve pushed it to be more personal in a couple of other poems, particularly the earlier ones, but I guess there’s always more room to explore that kind of stuff once you’re more confident in your writing.

        Will definitely think about playing with alignments and stuff, hadn’t even thought of that, so that’s cool 🙂 Anyway, thanks again for the advice, and I’m glad you enjoyed what you did read 🙂

        Liked by 1 person

    6. Its a great simple site with thoughtful poetry and just enough eye candy to keep someone looking in between reads. Consider a few photos or artwork for some of your pieces, but not a lot, because the purpose of your site is not gaudy window dressing. Otherwise, don’t get poetry burnout! 🙂

      Like

    2. Hi Steve, I took a look at your blog and it’s great! You write on a variety of topics, so I’m sure there’s many readers that can relate to your thoughts and post. I especially loved your about page, it was informative but fun. (I’m also a Sherlock fan!) Have you considered using the menu feature so you can have less links on your top menu bar? That way your readers/followers can navigate your blog. For example, “Dedication to Blog” and “My Life” could be under your “About” page. Hope that made some sense, it’s just a suggestion. 🙂

      Liked by 1 person

    4. Hi Chelsea, I visited your blog and wow! A lot of the content you write about is obviously close to your heart and personal, thank you for sharing with the blogosphere. You already have a couple of widgets set in place on the sidebar, but I would suggest adding a category or tags cloud, so that passing visitors and readers can easily navigate to certain posts or get gist of what you post at a glance. And once you’ve posted even more, make sure to add more pages at the top to easily sort the topics you post about. 🙂

      Liked by 2 people

      1. Thank you for visiting! It has definitely been a journey, but I’m happy to share it with others struggling. And thank you for the suggestions!! I always love getting those! I will definitely work on the categories and tag clouds!

        Liked by 2 people

  6. Hello everyone. I am Jerrod and I blog about my random thoughts and likes. Well, I want to ask something for you guys:
    1. Do you like my blog?
    2. What can I do to make my blog more improved?

    Here is the link: http://jerrodanielleblog.wordpress.com

    Don’t forget to join the SUMMER Challenge!
    Thank you everyone!

    Liked by 1 person

      1. Oh.. because I want to emphasis summer because it is summer here in the Philippines… but, you are right… going to customize it…

        Liked by 1 person

    3. Hi Jerrod! Your blog is great, blogs that are composed of random thoughts are sometimes the best ones to read! 🙂 I’m glad you included the “Days of Theme” page. You write on a variety of topics, and this page really helps your visitors/followers learn what you blog about. Your theme is bright and minimalistic, which is good for your text heavy posts. I saw that you categorized your posts, but the tags weren’t visible if you did do them. So make sure to tag your posts so other bloggers can find your posts if you haven’t already. I would also suggest moving your “Follow” widgets further to the top though. 🙂

      Liked by 2 people

    1. That was an interesting post, “goodbye” is one of the hardest words to say and an even more difficult action to follow through with. Kudos for experimenting with posting without editing, that’s a feat I would never suggest for myself (my first drafts consist of typos galore and a myriad of not-so-eloquent thoughts)! 🙂

      Liked by 2 people

    1. Don’t sell yourself short…your mind is a great and profound one. I am following.

      I just starting doing this blogging thing and would love some advice or what not from other bloggers.
      If you would like you can visit my blogs at
      https://kildanlove.wordpress.com/

      The second blog I write is written through the POV of my Chihuahua girl Bella. The link to that blog can be found on my main blog above.

      Thanks.

      Liked by 3 people

      1. Hi Kildan, I took a look at you blog as well and your posts are interesting. There’s a lot of deep thought into some of them, which is great. You also seem to be a blogger that doesn’t post frequently, which is fine! I would suggest categorizing your posts though (you can do this when you are writing your posts, it’s similar to tagging your posts like I’ve seen you done), so that in the future if you do decide to make a category cloud widget or a more detailed menu with lots of pages it’ll be easier. Creating this category cloud or detailed menu in the future will make navigation much easier for yourself and other visiting bloggers/followers.

        Liked by 1 person

    2. I wouldn’t say you lack a profound mind, but you have rather unique thoughts. I read your most recent post and there’s a lot of contemporary references, which is great! I really enjoyed reading some of your other writings as well. The minimalistic layout enhances your content and allows your readers to read without distractions. However, maybe add one or two more widgets on the sidebar. 🙂

      Liked by 2 people

      1. Thank you so much! And don’t worry, we all felt like that when we first started blogging 😀 I’ll definitely check out your blog and let you know what I think 😀

        Like

    3. I especially love the color coordination on your blog (lots of nice soothing Autumn hues). I read the first part of The Adventures of Ratha James, the story is intriguing so far. I don’t have much criticism, just keep writing! 🙂

      Liked by 2 people

      2. Hi sumlynnnguyen, I like how you keep appearing in the comments lol. I’m busy but please respond to my reply so that I can have a notification from you and I will visit your site later for an honest review. Stay awesome.

        Cheers 😉

        Your pal,
        David Long

        Liked by 1 person

      3. Hi David! You can say I’m a huge contributor to the Daily Post. 😉 I’m almost always on the Community Pool, because I love to meet new people and help as many bloggers as I can when I have the time. Anyway, I’ll be checking your blog soon!

        Liked by 1 person

      4. And that is just fantastic. I’m glad you are. I used to do it in the past till I was consumed with commitments haha!

        Anywho, as promised, I went to your blog and here are my thoughts:

        It is pretty obvious, a lot of thought went into the layout and design of this blog. The number of pages and the contents. The widgets used, you obviously did your homework in exploring them. The colors matches the personality and the images used for posts and even the banners, the art is wisely picked.

        I remember Beauty and the Beast. Awesome 😉 (Was one of them Studio Ghibly’s Howl’s Moving Castle?)

        Now, something that I feel may be lacking. Everything seems to be in place. The only thing I feel is missing here in your blog, is… Social media plug-in! Things like Facebook or Twitter. If you have yet to set a page up for your blog, you can consider setting one up because it’s also another window of opportunity for your readers to connect with you, as well as possibly getting new readerships as well from those mediums! But it does take time and work as well to get them all set up and it might not be your kind of thing to use social media so its not mandatory. It’s just something that I feel may help so I’m just pointing it out. Again, personal opinion here, don’t have to do as I recommend if it’s not your style.

        Love the humor that’s been placed strategically throughout the site btw.
        I also definitely appreciate the page you have placed on taking in requests from writers on their work. A lot of writers out there will surely find your offer something worth taking up.

        Hope this helps and also, thanks for visiting my blog too btw 😉 Really appreciate it and I hope to see more of your work in future. Keep up the awesome work!

        If you got anything else you’d like to ask, feel free to!

        Your pal,
        David Long

        Liked by 1 person

      5. Thank you so much! It really is too kind of you to look at my blog so thoroughly, thank you for the suggestions! For now, I won’t be using social media, but I will definitely consider it in the future when I have more time. (And yes, there are a couple of Howl’s Moving Castle headers!) Again, thanks a lot for taking the time to visit my blog and give me pointers! I appreciate it greatly. ^.^

        Liked by 1 person

      6. Npm! Happy to have helped and made a difference bud 😉

        If you need anything else, don’t hesitate to ask. After all, *Clears throat*:

        “Me David, you Summer. We friends. Yes?”
        [Think Tarzan’s voice]

        Your pal,
        David Long

        Liked by 1 person

  10. Hi all, hope you’re all doing well!

    I recently made a shiny new header for my blog, but I can’t decide if the font I chose works or not! It would be brilliant if you could take a look and let me know your thoughts!

    http://flicksandpieces.com

    Any other general feedback is of course always welcome 🙂

    Thank you very much, happy Monday!!

    Liked by 3 people

      1. Thank you so much for your feedback, much appreciated:)

        That’s great, I toyed with a few options (I’m not very decisive lol), I’m glad you think it fits well!!

        Liked by 1 person

      3. Brilliant, thanks for taking a look for me 🙂

        I can’t remember the name of the font, I did it using picmonkey.com (after seeing it recommended on Daily Post). I had a few options I’ve been flitting between, but really glad you think it works!

        Liked by 1 person

    4. Well, Luke, I have little to offer you. The banner at the top (which is totally fine) might be a little vague in light of the obvious theme of your site. The name reflects what you are doing, but the overall image of that banner does little to introduce the EXCELLENT site below. Your blog titles punch and the graphics are large and varied, making scrolling down a fun experience. The reviews are well written and the overall layout is professional. A site as good as yours deserves an even better banner. Something reflecting the movie and media theme, with a colorful font or even a professionally designed title graphic. You decide. It’s a gorgeous site, man.

      Liked by 1 person

      1. This is fantastic feedback, thank you very much for taking the time to take a look and give your thoughts, it really is helpful! I’ll definitely look to make a few changes for the better to give it a bit more punch 🙂

        Like

    1. Interesting, I read your most recent post about rape. You made a lot of valid points. I agree, that some women bring such a tragedy upon themselves with the way they present themselves, but I also believe there are innocent victims that had no control in preventing being raped in certain situations. You, obviously, strongly feel about your opinion, which is totally fine. I hope I don’t sound like I’m purposely arguing with you, I’m just laying out my thoughts on the post you shared. Nice post, overall I had points I agreed with but also some objections.

      Liked by 1 person

      1. Thank you for your feed back. I agree there are many situations where it is not a womans fault. That is why I included that I am not speaking of girls who are raped say in a public stall at the mall. Or women whose homes are broken into. Or women who are victimized to a most heinous level in other countries. Oh, and your comment is very politely put and classy. Thank you for taking the time to give my blog a look.

        Liked by 1 person

      1. Thanks! I’m sure my writing tutors will always find a way to disagree with that, but that can’t be a bad thing.
        Hahaha, my synopsis of my writing blog on Tumblr is ‘I write stories. Sometimes they make sense’ so you are completely spot on about that. I’m so eager to post that I don’t revise enough – I really need a lesson in patience! Thanks, I’ll check out your blog now and send you over some feedback 🙂

        Liked by 2 people

      3. I really like it! Like another commenter said, there’s such a good sense of mystery. Also, you do this thing that I adore in writing where you’ve given tiny hints at setting but not made it heavy. I find setting works way better when done like this, kind of like giving the reader the border pieces of a puzzle so they get the right idea. Also didn’t have to read over anything twice for it to make sense. Whenever that happens the writer is good in my books (I could do to learn that type of simplicity). Great work dude!

        Like

    2. I’d love to try and help you with critiques but I can’t! I didn’t find anything wrong! I don’t know how many posts I read of yours but each one was so moving and well written. I loved in your latest post how the little girl continued to sing her shoe song throughout the entire piece. It really added a lot to the story. We learn what happened by putting pieces together from the child’s perspective, and I loved that!

      Like

      1. I just read through a few of your posts and wow, you seem like such a positive person. Plus, there was a puppy post, which blog wise is always an indicator of something great. I’m in the midst of trying to find a follow button on my mobile app right now! Thank you for the kind words – it really makes me happy to hear people enjoy something I’ve written, or have even read it at all (and thank you for getting that the song was a shoe song! I struggled to find a recognisable one on the Internet) 🙂

        Liked by 1 person

      2. Thank you! And of course I had to be a proud puppy mama and show of my babies 😉 And yes I really enjoyed your stories! The size of them is great as well, perfect for a quick little read, but written so well that I continue to think about it after I’ve finished reading 😀

        Like

      3. That’s all I can ask for :’)
        I feel the same way – I probably post too many pictures of my pup on the internet, and I definitely go overboard taking pictures. Can’t help it, pets are adorable!

        Liked by 1 person

    3. Wow! “Bunny Ears” really blew me away – my head is still reeling. What a great piece!

      The musician in me needs to ask about the line “like the smashing of plates or symbols.” Did you mean “cymbals” or is there a deeper meaning behind the word “symbols” that I missed? (My biggest weakness is that I’m too literal…)

      I’m adding your blog to my reader – I definitely want to see more! 🙂

      Liked by 2 people

      1. Thank you! I wrote it in class today and have got mixed responses, because it can be a little confusing. I’m doing a massive face palm right now though, because I totally misspelled the word cymbals and will be correcting it asap, so thank you for that! I typed it up from my notebook at about 12am – I wish I could blame the time for my bad spelling but I really can’t 😛
        Checking out your blog now. This community pool is turning into a great place to find some good blogs

        Liked by 1 person

    4. I really liked ‘The Dark’, thought it was a very interesting piece. In terms of what you’re writing, I’d like to see you experiment a little more with your form, it all seems very similar on the page. Obviously the content is all great but, if I were to critique something it would be to make your posts look a bit different on the page, and maybe experiment with some longer (or even shorter) stuff and maybe some poetry or something as well, because I think you’re an excellent writer 🙂

      Like

      1. Thank you! I think it’d be really interesting to play with form, especially since I haven’t done a lot of it yet. The next time I write I’ll try and change it up a little, because before now I haven’t really given form too much thought. I do want to write longer things, so when I get the time that’ll be a given! I have written some poetry, but only because I had to take a class on it. Passing that class is going to be a miracle because I am utterly horrible at poetry 😛
        I’ll be checking out your blog later in the day 🙂

        Liked by 1 person

    5. Hi Shelby, I took a look at some of your writing. I, too, don’t really understand your posts since they seem to be more like snippets of bigger writings. Then again, I’m more of a reader (of full length books) than a writer, so I may not see the appeal. You write well though, which is expected of an journalism and creative writing student. 🙂

      Like

      1. The last three of four are definitely that – snippets and scenes. That probably comes as a result of my shoddy time management in uni 😛 when the semester is on I tend to go for short scenes so I can start and finish them pretty quickly. My stories like Jail Time and The Writer are full short story narratives 🙂 Thanks!

        Liked by 1 person

      1. Thank you ever so much for checking out my blog and following it! I hope you enjoy reading it 🙂

        Like

    2. I really loved how versatile your blog is. I’m sure a lot of bloggers also appreciate this. And it’s also really nice how you have some shorter posts, as a breather for your readers/followers. (Loved the George Orwell quote!) Nice!

      Liked by 1 person

    1. Hey ItalianHurricane!
      You’re blog looks great! And you’re writing is very smooth too. My only criticism would be to break up your paragraphs a bit more. It doesn’t necessarily bother me, but I’ve been told that people don’t like to see giant paragraphs…it turns them away and they end up skipping some of the content.
      Please check out the prologue for my book at https://thegoldenlands.wordpress.com/the-prologue/
      Thanks!
      Aul

      Liked by 1 person

      3. Fantastic blog! It’s well written and very relatable! And I love how you let your personality come out in your posts. It doesn’t feel generic; they are personal and give us a glimpse into your life! Love it 😀

        Like

    4. I took a look at some of your posts, including the recent one about sports. You run a versatile blog. and you do a great job of starting your blog posts with a nice hook for readers. Keep up with the good work!

      Like

    1. So far so good! I only popped over for a quick look but ended up reading most of what you’ve got on there so far.

      Maybe I can’t see it for looking but it’s worth adding an ‘About’ page if you’ve not got one there somewhere already. I often find I want to know about the blogger and why they’re writing what they’re writing, particularly if I’ve enjoyed reading it.

      Good luck with it all!

      Tess x

      Liked by 2 people

      1. I’ll be adding that to my page right now haha. Thank you for your kind comments and I’m grateful for such useful critique! Good luck to you too Tess, I’ll be taking a look at your blog ASAP! X

        Liked by 1 person

      2. I absolutely love how you include specific dates on your blog! It’s like reading through your life. Amazing. Keep up the good work, you’re on to something! It is even better that you will get to look back at your posts and feel happy about what you have written. I love it.

        Like

    2. Hey! I took a look at your blog and I like your writing! You bring humour to your posts and it makes people want to continue reading! I think the only thing I would suggest is to add colour to your blog and more visuals! Other than that it’s a great start! 🙂

      Liked by 1 person

      1. Hey Bianca! That’s such a nice thing to hear, thanks ever so much! Also appreciative of your creative criticism because I’m taking that on board now and hopefully everything on my page will look better! Thanks ever so much! x

        Liked by 1 person

    3. Welcome to the blogosphere! I took a look at some of your posts, and they’re definitely different, in a good way. I think another blogger has already mentioned it, but make sure to add an “About” page. And definitely use tags in your blog posts so other bloggers can find and read your posts!

      Liked by 1 person

      1. Hey! Thanks ever so much, glad to be a part of it!! So excited. Thank you for looking at my page too! And for that lovely comment, yep I’m working on it as we speak! Thank you for mentioning the tags too I didn’t even think. Will definitely be adding those, haha! I feel welcomed

        Liked by 1 person

    4. Really enjoy your blog about going to the strip club. Love your writing style. You definitely know how to create visual imagery so that readers can join you on your journey. I can’t wait to keep reading.

      Liked by 1 person

      1. Hey! Thank you so much for taking the time to have a look at that post! I surely do hope so, hopefully I can come up with something good to right next. Thanking you! X

        Like

    1. Oh gods! I love it! There is a mystery that you leave in the readers. LOVE IT! Continue the good work, Aul

      Like

  18. I’ve been trying to tidy up my blog a bit recently (it’s all my teenage diaries from the 90s). My social media bits, search box and other widgets are all down the right hand side at the moment and I’ve been fiddling with reordering them.

    Some of my posts are quite short so it makes sense to have the most popular widgets nearer the top. When you visit a blog. what do you tend to look for/click on once you’ve read a post? What do you find most useful?

    Any thoughts welcome!

    Tess x

    http://idstdiaries.com/

    Liked by 2 people

    1. First let me just say, I love your blog idea!! Sharing your old diary entries and then putting some blocks with your little thoughts. i.e. [ Teenagers are MEAN] really made me crack up! I think the best widget/feature of your blog is the link to start from the beginning. I will be clicking that momentarily, as well as the follow button! I can’t get over how awesome of an idea it is to blog your old entries! I’m so excited to read more!

      Liked by 1 person

      1. Ah, thank you 🙂 What a lovely comment! I’m pleased the ‘go to the start of my diary’ widget is helpful. It’s the most recent addition.

        I still often think “WHAT THE HELL AM I DOING?!” as I’m about to post something particularly cringe-worthy so it’s nice to be told when someone is actually enjoying it.

        Thank you again! x

        Like

    2. I love your blog idea! Your writing is great and I love that we get to see your life through the eyes of your younger self! I think it’s definitely entertaining and I have followed!

      Like

    3. Just wanted to say I love that you kept a teenage diary [i wish I had more regularly, which is why I’m making a blog now in my 20s] and I love that you had the idea to make a blog from the entries! This is making me want to type up the few journal entries I did write forever ago and feature them as Throwback Thursday posts… Followed you and looking forward to reading more! I’d also appreciate any feedback if anyone wanted to give my blog a look 🙂

      Like

      1. Thank you very much 🙂 That’s a good idea using your old diaries for a Throwback Thursday or two. Mine are all going on there unedited (which worries me slightly for what I know is in later ones!) but you can just pick out extracts of the best bits if you don’t want to share everything. I’ll have to follow you now! I love reading other peoples’ diary entries! As much as they’re cringe-worthy, they’re always blooming funny too!

        Liked by 1 person

    4. What a unique concept! Your theme really suits the content. Usually after visiting a blog I read the “About” page. I saw your two other pages other than the “Home” page, including the “Present Day Contact.” You should make a post of the differences between the you then and now. I’m sure your readers would love to know about the present you, if that makes sense.

      Like

    5. Love love love!!! I had diaries in school and they ended up on the bonfire. I wish I still had them for this reason. I guess my blog is like my diary, as I try to recall memories. But I love what you have done.

      Like

      1. Thank you 🙂 I’ve seriously considered chucking mine on a bonfire on more than one occasion but I suppose I’ve gone to the other extreme in sharing them all on here! Hopefully anyone that made it through teenage years relatively unscathed can relate to all the perceived dramas and ramblings.

        It’ll be good to look back on your blog in years to come and it should be far less mortifying that looking back at teenage diaries!

        Liked by 1 person

    3. Congrats on your One Year Blogaversary! 🙂 You blog on a range of things, and your blog obviously documents what you’re doing in real life and serves as a creative outlet. I totally agree with Bianca^^, add pictures!

      Liked by 1 person

  20. Hi I am trying yet another new layout on my blog and would appreciate some feedback on how it looks. I am always happy to check out your blogs too 🙂 Thanks yearandahalf.wordpress.com

    Liked by 5 people

    2. Not sure if you realise but when I clicked on your name rather than the link you provided, it took me to a blog that doesn’t exist. I often click on names (e.g. if someone comments on a post) so might be worth sorting that out for more traffic.

      As for your yearandahalf blog, the layout looks good to me. It’s uncluttered and easy to read. Have you got an ‘About’ page hidden somewhere? If not, it’s nice to have for nosy readers like me 🙂

      Tess x

      Like

      1. Hi, thanks for reading – I do need to sort that out! A couple of people have said it now. I do have an about page but it is in the hidden side bar.. that is something I am unsure about because I, too, head straight for the about pages!

        Like

    3. Hi Olivia, I think I may have talked to you before on the Community Pool about your questions page and adding a contact form. I may be wrong though, all the times I’ve been on here are starting to blur, haha. Anyway, I think your new layout looks great and doesn’t take away from your content. You already add pictures, but I would suggest adding more if you can. I’ve noticed a lot of readers to find that helpful. 🙂

      Liked by 1 person

    2. I love it!!! I signed up to follow.

      I am fairly new to this bloggersphere and would like some advice on the layouts and contents.
      I keep two blogs the main one is basically my thoughts dump tank/online diary. The second one is written in the POV of my Chihuahua girl Bella.

      Both blogs can be found here.
      https://kildanlove.wordpress.com/
      there is a sidebar link to Bellas’ page.

      I would love any advice on format, content, and how to bring in more followers for both sites.

      Thanks.

      Like

    3. Hey I really love your blog! The layout is awesome and fun to look at it does your writing justice and the font is great! I think you definitely have it all together! I have followed!

      Like

    4. Hi Sare, your writing is on the informal side, which is great since it’s in “diary” format. This idea is really cool, the layout also really works with the content you blog about!

      Like

    1. Nice blog, I looked through your archive and there seems to be something for every reader. Even though you have widgets at the bottom of the page, I think it’d be great if you had more in depth “About” page somewhere closer at the top if your theme allows it.

      Liked by 1 person

  23. As I’m New to blogging, its hard to figure out where to start, what to write, or even how to write. Where can I get Followers,or Other Bloggers that will engage with me, Comment or Like. I send out Blogs on New merchandise in our online store. Please give me your honest Opinions and let me know what I need to do to make my Blogs Better! Thank you for your support

    Liked by 2 people

      1. Thank you for your advice. it is greatly appreciated. I think part of my hang up is blogging about Products that we sell. Wheres Story line in that? Maybe you have a though.. Thank you

        Like

      4. Maybe you can make list post, like “5 Things You Should Have This Summer” or “Gifts Idea for ….” In that list, you can include the products that you sell.

        Like

      5. Thank you so much.. Those are great ideas.. we had done something similar in the past.. but Im going to put something together with your recommendation. 🙂 I guess Mothers day Gifts would be a great start…

        Liked by 1 person

    2. Well for starters, always write what interests YOU, there will always be readers if you properly categorize and tag your posts so other bloggers/readers can find them. To have more interaction within your blog you must interact with other bloggers by liking and commenting on their posts. Of course, this only works if you engage with bloggers that share a common interest with you and the content of your blog. For example, since I’m a book blog, I usually search the “books” tags and give my input or comment on posts I think I can contribute to. Hope this helped in some way! Welcome to the blogosphere!

      Liked by 1 person

    1. Im a Newbie So Im not sure if my opinion would matter much. Your layout looks good. I like it.. Im not sure what layout you previously used. so I can’t compare. I blog about merchandise we sell, mostly fashion.. Maybe you could tell me what you think.. thank you

      Like

      1. Thanks 🙂 on your site, I’m not sure if ultimately a blogging site is the best format to sell from but for now I would only say that a few of your header images don’t quite fit the space – it would look smoother if they did. That’s all really!

        Like

      2. Thank you Olivia.. I will look into those header images.. as for selling.. the blog is not really to sell but to present our brand.. Getting our brand out there is what is really important. There are many fashion bloggers blogging for many companies out there.. Everyones input is important to me.. so I all ears.. thank you for your help..

        Like

  25. Hey everyone, my blog post, on which I need constructive feedback, is an article on “Greed: Good or Bad – Scientific Views”, here is the link where you may find it:
    https://effectivethoughts.wordpress.com/2015/04/11/greed-good-orbad-scientific-views
    You may read it and if you want to, comment on it whatever comes to your mind related to the article, negative or positive. Helpful advice is also highly appriciated on the post.
    Plus, I was nominated for the Liebster Award for the first time. Here is the link:
    https://effectivethoughts.wordpress.com/2015/04/19/liebster-award

    Liked by 2 people

  26. Hi guys! I hope you are all well. I am almost half way through my first attempt at a psychological thriller novel. Please stop by and check out my blog. I need as many followers as possible in preparation for its release. I will return the favour and check yours out too! Your feedback is always welcome and your support very much appreciated. Take care. Mark
    http://www.markdraycott.com

    Liked by 2 people

    1. Hello from a fellow beginning writer! I’ve followed your blog through WordPress, and perhaps you’ll do the same for me at my writing blog, <a href="http://wordwacker.wordpress.com&quot; WordWacker . I’m not as close to release as you are, though, since I’m still in the planning/outlining phase. I found your blog visually interesting and inviting. I did have a little trouble figuring out how to access your contact information and profile and such, though I finally did find it. Great job, and I look forward to your work!

      Liked by 1 person

      1. Sorry for the HTML error. Here’s the link:
        Word Wacker
        I can obviously use some technical help, including figuring out how to get my profile image, which shows up on my profile and in my Gravatar page, to appear when I make a post! I’m sure I’ll get the hang of it, though.

        Like

    2. Hi Mark, I checked out your blog and you’re a great writer. Unfortunately, Gone Girl has killed my interest in psychological thrillers, I’ll delve into that genre again someday. Good luck with your novel, I’m sure it’ll appeal to a lot of readers! 🙂

      Liked by 1 person

    1. Hi, just read a few of your posts, some good stuff there and I like it and I’ve followed ur blog. I’m in the same position as you and only started my blog a week ago so could you take a look at my site and let me know what you think. And follow if you like it!

      Liked by 1 person

    2. Hi Dennis! One of my best friends is really into football, and he’s kind of gotten me into it the past summer. My favorite club team is Barca (and, of course, my favorite player is Messi). So I guess I’m still butthurt that Argentina didn’t win against Germany during the World Cup. XD Anyway, your blog is really interesting, the pictures enhances the content. (I read your “About” page, and music is huge part of my life too.)

      Like

    2. I read your post about fear and thought it was quite interesting. I have heard all of your sayings for fear and think they are great especially for people who have a difficult time with their fear. I believe that most people experience fear in situations out of their control. I know I certainly do.

      Reading this post also led me to your post about being in a mixed marriage with mixed children which I can relate to, since I am currently in a mixed marriage with a mixed child. https://wiseindisguise.wordpress.com/2015/04/02/a-life-full-of-color/

      Keep up the great work on your blog, and I wish you the best of luck on your future endeavors.

      🙂 Laura

      Liked by 2 people

    3. Wow, that was a wonderful post! I loved how you included the Britain’s Got Talent video, it really fit. Sometimes our best posts are the ones that didn’t go as planned… 🙂

      Like

      1. I initially went to your blog to read the post, but I spent some time going through the whole page. I love your page, it’s wonderful how well you express yourself.

        Like

    3. I loved your blog, great job. And just write more and by time you will keep getting better. Just one advice is to put more tags about 10 or so. GOOD LUCK 🙂

      Like

      1. Thank you so much for all the love! Yep, I will definitely keep at it. Since I’m relatively new, I’m quite unsure about tags, but will definitely learn with time

        I also love how you write about such diverse topics, got something to learn there too!

        Liked by 1 person

    1. there is an icon/button for media. when you click on it. select instert URL and paste the link to the youtube video.

      i actually just figured this out since my last post included several youtube vids.

      Liked by 1 person