Blog Critique, and some changes...

I participated in a blog critique over at Truly Lovely!  It was fun, and I got some constructive feedback that will help me make some changes!  I also got to critique some really cool blogs that I have not been as familiar with... go check out,
                 Makeup Wished and Lip Gloss Dreams
                 Sweets and Shutterclicks
                 Life in the Thrifty Lane  (This blog is most like my style, I love it!)
  I know this post is kind of all about me, but maybe some of the suggestions I received can help you with your own blog!

Watermarking: I need to have a watermark on my pictures.  I think as fun websites as Pinterest emerge it is becoming more and more important to tag your work.  Often times on sites such as Pinterest people see only a picture from your blog, and it would be nice if they knew where the picture came from.  I am not dogging Pinterest, I love it, but that is the nature of it!

Design:  So I can honestly say I have been designing this blog as I have gone along.  And I still have some work to do... Such as buttons on my toolbar instead of the easy pages.  I also found out my about me page the print is super small... oops, sorry I never look at that!  I was also politely told, my blog header stinks, and I need my tag line to describe more of my blog... So I will be making some changes.  I have been a bit discouraged though because my external hard drive with EVERYTHING graphic design related quick working... So my header may look different--eventually.

Content:  This is something I have been struggling with a lot. One of my critiquers suggested that for the last while there haven't been enough original posts, and too much Weekend Show off party.  And I know this is the case so I am going to make some changes.

  As my blog has gotten bigger, it is so hard for me to keep up on everything.  I have tons of pictures from projects I have done... just not blogged about yet.  Something needs to give, I am spending too much time answering emails, guest posting, etc, etc. Which I love to do, but I need to spend more time with my family, doing projects I really want to do.  I definitely DO NOT want to give up my blog, it is honestly one of the highlights of my life.  I love to meet all of you, and be inspired by you, but I also need to find the right balance.  I have not been enjoying blogging as much as I used to.


So Here are some things I am going to try to do to get out of this rut. 

• I am still going to do my Weekend Show Off Party as always (I really love it), but instead of having a post dedicated to Weekend Show Offs on Monday, I am going to feature projects on my Facebook page, which honestly I need a little help with!  I am not an extremely social person, I rarely post on my personal facebook page, so this will help me to remember to post something!  I will do some themed show offs on occasion!
• I am also going to strive to do my original goal of posting a project and recipe each week.  The posts may be simpler, but at least they will be there.
• I am going to limit the number of parties I participate in, the number of guest post opportunities I take, and the number of giveaways etc. that I choose to sponsor.  I only want to sponsor a giveaway, or be a part of a contest etc, if I feel passionate about it, and is something I truly believe in.  Like for instance the NOVICA giveaway going on now.  I feel like it is a wonderful company, I love what they are doing,  they had a great offer for me and my readers.  SO I will still continue to do giveaways,  and participate in blog events, but only if I think it is worth while, and I can dedicate the time needed to fulfill the obligations!

Thanks to my critique-rs for being honest with me, this has been a good experience that has helped opened my eyes a bit!