Blog Talk Tuesdays
On Friday last week I put out a call for questions about anything related to blogging on my afternoon post and Facebook page in hopes of putting together a Q&A-style post to address the questions you have have about starting a blog, marketing a blog, etc.
The questions poured in and I quickly realized that a one-time post wouldn’t be sufficient or would be entirely too long that you’d likely pass out from information overload about a quarter of the way through. Plus, I want to give each topic and question the attention it deserves and not skimp out because I’m worried about the overwhelming length of a post.
All of your questions inspired me to start a mini series on the blog: Blog Talk Tuesdays!
Each Tuesday for the next few weeks, I will dedicate one post a day to a topic related to blogging. I’ve divided your questions into several different categories and will tackle them that way. I’m a stickler for organization and flow and this seems like the best way to handle your questions.
Plus, having the posts categorized by topic will hopefully allow you to read the posts with topics that interest you and scan or browse over those that don’t apply to you.
Maybe I should create a blog post composed solely of Sadie pictures to publish in conjunction with the Blog Talk Tuesday posts for those of you with no interest in blogging? 
Now that the introduction of Blog Talk Tuesdays is done, let’s get crack-a-lackin’ with the first topic!
Oh! Before we delve into it, please know that I am not a blogging expert by any means. I’ve been blogging for just shy of two years, so my answers to your questions are based on my own experiences, research and trial and error.
I will eventually post all of these posts on my Blogging page as a resource so you may find them easily in the future.
Blogging Basics: How to Start a Blog, Blog Focus, Self Hosting and More
- How did you start your blog?
I started by blog through WordPress.com, a website that allows you to set up a free site using pre-fabricated templates. I selected a template that they already had available, made my own banner in Microsoft Paint (anyone out there remember the peanut butter cookie banner?) and started posting!
Of course I was overwhelmed and confused about the set up a bunch of times, but I turned to the valuable resource that is Google and read many different tutorials and eventually figured everything out myself. Trust me, if I can do it, you can do it. I am horrible with computers.
- Did you design your own blog?
Yes and no. But mostly no. 
I worked with The Blog Fairy on the design of my blog. We emailed back and forth many times and I gave her ideas and color schemes and overall guidance, but she was absolutely the brains behind the blog design that you see today. I highly recommend her services!
Another great resource for any blog-related questions, design and assistance is my friend and computer genius Tim Parkin, who may by reached by email at tparkin@gmail.com.
- In your opinion, what is the best blogging platform?
WordPress, without a doubt. This may sound harsh, but for the most part I don’t even try to comment on Blogger blogs anymore because I am blocked from commenting 99.9 percent of the time. But there are ways for those who use Blogger to change this. As Brittany explains, “If you use Blogger, you should allow Anyone to comment instead of Only Allowing Registered Users. I often times don’t comment on blogger blogs if I can’t just use the name/url option, which is turned off when you choose to Allow Only Registered Users.”
Also, the vast majority of bloggers I know who began blogging on Blogger have switched to WordPress. Michelle actually put together an amazing post detailing exactly HOW to transfer your blog from Blogger to WordPress which you may see here.
I also want to add that while I created my blog through WordPress, I write all of my blog posts through Windows Live Writer, a free downloadable program for PCs that syncs up with your blog when you hit “publish.” It is an AMAZING program and cut my blogging time in half thanks to the ease of uploading and cropping photos, automatic linking and other fantastic features. Highly recommended!
- Do you think it’s important to own your own domain?
Yes. Longtime PBF readers will remember when my web address was peanutbutterfingers.wordpress.com. Talk about a mouthful! It took me a LONG time to buy and set up my own domain (pbfingers.com) and I wish I would’ve done it sooner.
Domain names are so cheap (under $15!) and are easy to set up on your blog (click here for step-by-step directions for WordPress users). Having your own domain name not only conveys a sense of professionalism (do you know any companies with “.wordpress.com” in their web address?), but it also makes it much easier for people to remember you and find you online.
- How did you decide what to blog about?
When I decided that I wanted to start a blog, I always kept in mind my number one tip for bloggers: Create a blog you would want to read.
I knew I loved reading healthy living blogs every day, so I figured that genre was a good fit for me. I also wanted my blog to be a little different and I knew I couldn’t limit myself to talking solely about food and fitness because I’d pass out from boredom and quickly lose the fervor I have for blogging if I could only write about what I ate or what workout I completed every day.
When I expanded my blog to include musings about my life, I knew I’d always have something to say.
Plus, Sadie loves the spotlight.
- Do you feel like it’s better to have a focus to your blog? Do you not include certain things on your blog because they don’t necessarily fit into the main focus of your blog?
While blogs are great in that they give you freedom to write about whatever you want, I think a focus is extremely important. Sure, I blog about my life, random thoughts, The Bachelorette, my dog, my wedding and travels, but my blog has consistency through food and fitness.
Every day readers know they can expect to see my breakfast, lunch and dinner and typically they’ll also see a recap of my workout in the morning. I think that this continuity is imperative because a blog full of random thoughts and musings can be hard to follow and overwhelming. Of course there are exceptions to this, as I can think of a small handful of blogs that were created on the principle of being totally random, but they attack randomness with humor and diligence that somehow gives their blog a sense of focus and organization.
- Do you think it’s necessary to post all the time to have a successful blog?
No. I think you can post once a week and still have a successful blog. If you do this, make sure that when you post, you’re posting on the same day, around the same time each week. To me, the most important aspect of posting is having a schedule. Your readers want to know when you’ll be posting so they know when to come back!
- How did you tell your friends, family and coworkers about your blog?
I didn’t right away! For a couple of weeks, Ryan was the only one who knew about my blog. I then told my family and then a small handful of my friends, explaining that I wanted to create a blog as an outlet to write about food and fitness since my desk job had me writing about pharmaceuticals and their side effects all day. It took me a couple of months until I felt okay with sharing my blog with all of my friends.
As for telling my coworkers, I wanted to keep my blog separate from work since it follows so much of my personal life and never actually told any of my coworkers. The coworkers who knew about my blog at first discovered it on their own. Eventually the vast majority of my coworkers knew about my blog. In fact, when I quit my job and explained to my boss that I was going to be pursuing freelance work, he said “And your blog, too, right?” Apparently everyone knew!
- What does it mean to be self-hosted? What is the benefit of self-hosting?
With a self hosted blog, you have a lot more freedom and flexibility and you have complete control over your site. You have the ability to install more plugins, have dynamic advertisements and can customize your site to your heart’s content. I personally switched to self-hosting for the advertising opportunities, which I’ll cover in more detail when I post about making money through blogging in this series.
***
And that was the first installment of Blog Talk Tuesdays! Phew! I hope this post was beneficial for some of you out there.
Also, please know that it’s totally normal to feel overwhelmed and nervous about starting a blog. I can assure you that every single blogger has been there. I’ve done so much reading and research about blogging and still sometimes feel like I know nothing… but I continue learn something new every single day. Blogging is a marathon, not a sprint.
If you’d like to read more blogging tips, please check out my Blogging Tips for Beginners post.
Filed under: Blogging
thanks so much for this- i def need to change my ‘comments section’ for anyone to comment! xo
cait
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peanutbutterfingers Reply:
July 26th, 2011 at 9:21 am
YES YOU DO!!!
peanutbutterfingers
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All great information Julie. And can I just say that I love the captions you always write on the pictures of Sadie…they always make me laugh!!
Kelly
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GREAT tips!!! I live by WLW – seroiusly, I don’t know how I survived without it before!
chelsey @ clean eating chelsey
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peanutbutterfingers Reply:
July 26th, 2011 at 9:21 am
oh me neither. i didn’t get it until like a YEAR after i started blogging. what was i thinking!?!? such a time saver.
peanutbutterfingers
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Allison @ Happy Tales Reply:
July 26th, 2011 at 11:14 pm
Oh my, I looove windows live writer! I don’t think i would have kept up with blogging if I didn’t have it. It saves SO much time!!!!!!!
Allison @ Happy Tales
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Such great info!
I totally agree with the awesomeness of Word Press and WIndows Live Writer (and Gallery) I don’t know what I would do without them!
Jenny @ Fitness Health and Food
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Right now, I’m a little nervous to switch to self-hosting. I’ve read that you lose all your subscribers and it can be a headache! I know I’ll have to make the leap eventually, but I’m procrastinating!
Dawn @ Blonde on a Mission
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peanutbutterfingers Reply:
July 26th, 2011 at 9:22 am
if you’re nervous, you can have someone do it for you (like i did). it’s scary, but can go VERY smoothly when someone knows what they’re doing. my friend tim is amazing (and affordable!) and i highly recommend his services. tparkin@gmail.com if you’re interested!
peanutbutterfingers
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Dawn @ Blonde on a Mission Reply:
July 26th, 2011 at 1:54 pm
That helps out a lot & would take off most of the pressure! Thank you for the recommendation!
Dawn @ Blonde on a Mission
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peanutbutterfingers Reply:
July 26th, 2011 at 2:18 pm
of course! good luck!
peanutbutterfingers
Thank you for this! I’ve discovered a lot of this in the past month haha
Lindsay@ In Sweetness and In Health
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I am absolutely loving this idea for Tuesdays. I have just recently started a blog, and there have been many sleepless nights worrying about how to do this and that. My problem is that I want everything done yesterday, and every time I read about blogging it’s confusing and overwhelming. I really appreciate your thoughtfulness!
Jodi
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peanutbutterfingers Reply:
July 26th, 2011 at 9:24 am
totally agree. i am SUCH an immediate person and want everything instantly. i have to remind myself to take a deep breath all the time. i have to realize that getting your blog where you want it to be takes time.
peanutbutterfingers
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Loved this post. Who do you use for hosting (and do you like it)? I’ve heard some nightmare stories about pretty much all of them and am wanting to make the switch but am scared of picking the wrong one!
Cait’s Plate
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peanutbutterfingers Reply:
July 26th, 2011 at 9:24 am
i use site5. they’re 5 BAZILLION times better than bluehost. i first used bluehost and my site went down ALL THE TIME.
peanutbutterfingers
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Cait's Plate Reply:
July 26th, 2011 at 9:53 am
Awesome, thank you!!
Cait’s Plate
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Jodi Reply:
July 26th, 2011 at 10:25 am
Oooph..I’m in a year-long contract with Blue Host… :-S
Jodi
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peanutbutterfingers Reply:
July 26th, 2011 at 2:17 pm
i was too – and i left. it really got THAT bad. i think it depends on what server they put you on though, so you may be totally fine!
peanutbutterfingers
chocolate-covered katie Reply:
August 8th, 2011 at 12:04 pm
Looking into switching today! I have had it with Bluehost. Bluehost = the devil
chocolate-covered katie
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What a great idea for a series! I know I’ll be looking forward to Tuesdays–I’m always ready to keep my marathon going.
Lisa @ Sunny Seed Stories
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Thanks so much for this! I’ve been considering moving away from WordPress, but I’m so intimidated by the thought of it!
Tiff @ Love, Sweat, and Beers
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These are great tips!!:) thanks so much!
Savannah (sweet and savvy)
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Looks like I have some “de-wordpressing” to do. I think I can spare $15 a year for a domain name!
Taylor @ Crumbs Don’t Count
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peanutbutterfingers Reply:
July 26th, 2011 at 9:25 am
haha yes!!! i don’t know why i was so nervous to do it, but it’s not too bad and totally worth it for a more professional and “legit” domain name.
peanutbutterfingers
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Blog talk Tuesday is a great great idea!
Gen
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Great tips. Oh! And Sadie totally deserves the spotlight.
Cat @ Breakfast to Bed
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Wow!! This was such an educational post, I feel like you just gave a seminar or something via your words.
Thanks, from a newb!
Jordan @ food, sweat, and beers
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Great post, Julie! I loved reading your advice, especially about self-hosting and domain names. I need to get on the domain name thing stat!
Erika @ The Teenage Taste
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yeah. I love the new series. thanks for posting the answers to these questions. it’s brilliant to see & learn hoe others blog because it’ll help me improve my blogging.
laura
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great information thank you so much for sharing!
kate
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Seriously, you rock. Thank you so much for doing this. You are helping us “newbies” out greatly!!
Kristen @ notsodomesticated
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peanutbutterfingers Reply:
July 26th, 2011 at 9:37 am
i’m so glad! i know i felt SO overwhelmed and lost in the beginning.
peanutbutterfingers
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Thanks so much for this post! It was really helpful- can’t wait for next Tuesday’s edition!
Jenny
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GREAT post Julie! I like this series already! A quick question for you… (well I hope it’s quick anyway!) I’m looking to buy my domain through wordpress, but am worried about people trying to access the old (well, my current) URL via their readers. Is there a way to automatically re-direct them to the new domain? Did you have an automatic re-direct set up? If it’s a lengthy process, any links you could provide would be great! Thanks!
Angela @ Eat Spin Run Repeat
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peanutbutterfingers Reply:
July 26th, 2011 at 9:36 am
yes! you can definitely do this! here’s a link with instructions: http://en.support.wordpress.com/site-redirect/
peanutbutterfingers
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I love this series! Thank you so much for starting it and I can’t wait to read the rest. I had read a couple of tips on other blogs before starting my own and I am so glad I went with wordpress and bought my own domain. I just switched to self-hosting a month ago and it rocks.
Lizzy @ runbakerace
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Already loving “Blog Talk Tuesdays” – this is great, Julie!!
Courtney @ Sweet Tooth, Sweet Life
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So $15 PER YEAR for a domain name? That’s it. So would you have done this on Day 1 of your blog. Right now, I think my husband is the only one who reads my blog. Is it still worth it?!
And clearly, I need to stop using blogger. thanks for this post. I’m looking forward to the rest of the series
Brooke
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peanutbutterfingers Reply:
July 26th, 2011 at 9:35 am
yes! i would absolutely do it b/c you never know where your blog might go!
peanutbutterfingers
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This is such a great idea! I can’t wait to hear more!
Bee Goes Bananas
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I love WLW — I can’t believe how much easier it is to use.
Holly @ The Runny Egg
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I love this idea for a series! And you gave such helpful answers! Oh mannn I really want to be able to use WLR. It takes forever to upload pictures and everything through WordPress. But I have a mac.
I wish they would make a mac version!
Laura @ Meet Virginia
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peanutbutterfingers Reply:
July 26th, 2011 at 9:46 am
have you looked into ecto? i know a lot of mac users blog w/ ecto, though i’ve heard it’s not nearly as good as livewriter & i think you have to pay for it.
peanutbutterfingers
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I wish Windows Live Writer was available on Mac’s! I’ve heard there are similar programs, but they’re not as good.
I think I am going to be a big fan of blogging Tuesday’s.
Lindsey @ Happy or Hungry
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Thank you so much for this blog. I just started my own a few weeks ago and I’m loving it. I know your Blog Talk Tuesday will give me new things to think about. Way to be awesome. =D
Jillian
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Thank you for this! I have been contemplating on starting my own blog for a while now & this has definitely and inspired me to do so
Brittany
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I’m glad you shared that you use Windows Live Writer. I read that Kath from katheats.com uses it too and I’ve been thinking about downloading it for a while (I’m downloading it now!). Thank you for your awesome tips!
Aska @ Finding My Happy Ending
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Thanks so much for the blogger comment tip… I am going to make sure my comments are open to everyone right now!!!!!!!!
Ashley O. @ The Vegetable Life
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peanutbutterfingers Reply:
July 26th, 2011 at 9:47 am
Yes! Definitely do this!
peanutbutterfingers
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“Blogging is a marathon, not a sprint.” LOVE IT!
Thanks for linking to my post and spreading the WordPress love!
Michelle @ Crazy*Running*Legs
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peanutbutterfingers Reply:
July 26th, 2011 at 9:47 am
of course! you did a great job. i love all the screen shots!
peanutbutterfingers
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Great series! And timely for me. I’ve been in the process of setting up my own domain with self-hosting and talk about baby steps! I feel like there’s more “error” than “trial” for me right now
Although I’m nostalgic about Blogger because it made it so easy to get started, I feel the same as many on its usability. I hate commenting on Blogger blogs as well and don’t want all 2 of my own readers to be annoyed – ha.
I was on the fence about blogging for a while because I just didn’t think I had time to do it. But what I also realized is I was all over the map on topics and it made it difficult to focus on topics for posts. Now, I am at a point where I feel as though I’ve *finally* found my niche with the blog and want to give it a fresh start. I will definitely be following this series!
‘Dee
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Thanks for the tips! Does anyone know of a program like the Windows Live Writer for Macs?
Sarah
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peanutbutterfingers Reply:
July 26th, 2011 at 9:57 am
yes, it’s called ecto, but i’ve heard it isn’t nearly as good as live writer, unfortunately.
peanutbutterfingers
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SO helpful to hear how you made these decisions – thanks for sharing!
Claire @ Live and Love to Eat
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This was SO helpful. Thank you!
Dawn
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Thank yo for posting this! You gave some great tips!
Hope
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This is such a great post, Julie!!
I am soooo glad you confirmed my undying love for WordPress too, heh. I am looking forward to getting rid of the .wordpress from my URL soon, but unfortunately there are TWO other prettylittlewords out there!! Not sure how I’m gonna handle that one….a tip for future bloggers: google your potential blog name BEFORE committing to it…wishing I had thought to do that! Haha.
Laura @ prettylittlewords
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I can’t tell you how excited I am about this series!! Thanks for putting it together
And although I AM interested in all things blogging, I also wouldn’t be opposed to a whole day each week of Sadie pictures… and captions. Her captions are my favorite part!
Brittany (A Healthy Slice of Life)
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WOW — thanks so much for this! I just recently posted thanks to a friend who helped me out a bit on my comments section. Starting a cool blog is harder than it seemed…not that I’m even close yet — Already checked out The Blog Fairy–thanks for the referral! You have helped me out a bunch – can’t wait to get back from my vacay in the Sates to get started — honestly – thank you! xoxo from Trinidad!
Corey @ Learning Patience
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I love Blog Talk Tuesdays!!!!
& awesome advice! Like the domain name- I’ve been thinking of doing it for a while, but just never have. I also need to shorten it- I wonder if I could just do http://www.gyas.com? or if I would lose readers. hmmm…maybe I should just stick to the greekyogurtandappleslices.com. I guess cutting out wordpress would definitely help!
Holly
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peanutbutterfingers Reply:
July 26th, 2011 at 10:17 am
that’s definitely a tough one. i only did pbfingers.com b/c peanutbutterfingers.com was unavailable at the time (i’ve since bought that one, too). even though it’s long, i think the whole name is better than GYAS.com b/c it’s hard to know what that stands for. there are plently of blogs out there with long names (healthytippingpoint.com, for example) that are really successful!
peanutbutterfingers
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Holly Reply:
July 26th, 2011 at 3:54 pm
Thanks Julie!!! I will stick with the full name, but drop the .wordpress. It’s just so ridiculously long right now.
Holly
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Great tips! Thanks for sharing…can’t wait to read the rest of them…I’m always trying to learn more!
Keri
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Thank you a million times over for this! I have so many ideas for my blog and life thanks to this great community!!
Thank you!!!!!
Cari @ Happy Life, Healthy Bites
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Thanks for the great advice. I look forward to reading this post each Tuesday. I love your blog!
Danette
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Great tips Julie! Thanks so much for this
Aine @ Something to Chew Over
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Thanks for sharing all of these tips. Currently my blog is hosted by Squarespace, which I like, but my sisters and I just started another blog on WordPress…considering switching my main blog over now too!
Rachel @ The Avid Appetite
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I’m absolutely loving this Blog Talk Tuesdays series! Thanks for the time you take to answer all the questions. Can’t wait to read more!!
Erin @ Naturally Addicted
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I love this idea for a series! I started my blog a few months ago but only recently (in the last week) committed to posting a certain number of times a week- the goal is 5!. I will be following this series closely! I love your blog!! Read it religiously!! Hope one day I can have a blog as half as awesome as yours!!
Tara
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This was great, Julie. Especially considering I’m still fairly new to blogging, I’m happy to take all the advice I can get! Looking forward to the upcoming series : )
Hillary
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Thank you so much for putting this up! A few days ago I went live with my own blog and 100% look up to your blog for inspiration! You’re Awesome!
Amanda Falzone
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This was awesome, thanks Julie. Your blog prompted me to begin my own. I have now been blogging for three months and have loved every single second.
Stephanie @ StephSnacks
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This is a GREAT idea for a series…I’m (mostly) new to this, and any help I can get is great!! I’ll be reading every post
Liz @ Something To Chew On
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Can I just say that I love you? I have so many ideas for my blog, but don’t want to toll them out until I switch to WordPress, but every time I try I get overwhelmed. Thank you for posting the tutorial!
Kristen @ Chocolate Covered Kristen
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Great tips Miss Julie
A couple notes
Blogger is terrible — I thought I was the only one that got blocked. I literally can’t comment on most blogs. If you’re on blogger, switch, please!
WLW is pretty great — so much better than trying to write posts within wordpress.
And for keeping your voice, please please don’t copy other blogger’s voices — it’s so apparent. And while imitation is flattery, it doesn’t read authentic!
Shanna, Like Banana
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peanutbutterfingers Reply:
July 26th, 2011 at 11:59 am
100 percent agree w/ your last comment! nothing annoys me more than when bloggers rip off other bloggers.
peanutbutterfingers
[Reply]
Thank you so much for doing this! I think once a week is great! I started my blog in March and I still feel like i have a lot to learn/i need to find time to do some of these tips. I don’t tell coworkers but i tell EVERYONE else.
Kendall (On An Inhale)
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Thanks so much Julie! I’m so excited for this series! It couldn’t have come at a better time. I’ve been feeling a little overwhelmed lately and it’s nice to know I’m not the only one. I actually contacted Tim Parkin last week at your suggestion and he was so unbelievably helpful. Thanks again and I look forward to continuing to read your tips!
Kristi
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peanutbutterfingers Reply:
July 26th, 2011 at 12:00 pm
isn’t he amazing!?!? he’s the husband of one of my former coworkers and has been able to answer every single one of my questions. so glad he’s helping you!
peanutbutterfingers
[Reply]
I am in love with this miniseries!
The blogspot tidbit does worry me a little, but luckily I changed my comments so anyone can. Maybe one day I’ll change to wordpress, but I’m one of those people who are helpless when it comes to technology and is not big on change haha.
Julia @ Watermelon Smiles
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I’m so glad you stress the importance of self-hosting wordpress.org blogs. I see so many people who use blogger or even wordpress.com and while yes they will work, you don’t own it.
If you are planning to monetize your blog or anything that you are wanting to make a business out of it you need self-hosted. Just knowing that the big Google could take down a blogger blog at any time because they feel like it was enough for me to go through wordpress.org.
My biggest suggestion to make it easier and to have it done “yesterday” is to outsource lol! My http://www.rozpearcy.com blog is something I set up all by myself, same with http://www.myvisalusjourney.com. Both took months to get it down. This time around with the redoing of rozpearcy.com (combining it with my other blog) I am having a friend redo the graphics, colors, my free giveaway opt in graphics and linking my facebook twitter and youtube so it’s all cohesive. Much better to pay someone else to do it than me have the stress and the headache lol!
Roz @ My ViSalus Journey
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Great post! I always thought it was “me”, why I cant always comment on blogs. I guess it is probably because I use blogger. Thanks!
Nicole @ running around the rock
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Oh and thanks for the suggestion for ecto…I looked it up in the App store but didn’t find it? I’ll have to google it to see what I find.
For the other mac users if you have the parallels program on mac then you can use live writer…I might just have to get parallels so I can do this
.
Roz @ My ViSalus Journey
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I agree with you on Windows Live Writer being absolutely awesome! I love that you can blog without an internet connection and then upload it later on. Plus the pictures import SO MUCH faster in live writer than they do if you try to import them directly to wordpress.
Mary @ Fervent Foodie
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Fabulous post, Julie! I’m THISCLOSE to self-hosting and Michelle is definitely encouraging me to do so. I think next month might be THEE month.
Paula @ Eat: Watch: Run
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Such an awesome post! All of my coworkers discovered my blog on their own, too. I was really shy about it, but I was happily surprised when they told me they loved it!
Alexa @ Simple Eats
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Great info!
Do you know of an equivalent to WLW for mac users?
Veronica (Run Write Repeat)
[Reply]
peanutbutterfingers Reply:
July 26th, 2011 at 12:01 pm
yes! it’s a program called ecto, but i think you have to buy it & i’ve heard it’s not as good, unfortunately.
peanutbutterfingers
[Reply]
Great tips! I remember when I first started my blog, it was so scary.
Shari @ Chicago Cuisine Critique
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This post is very helpful! I’ve figured out some things on my own but very slowly. I think this will help a lot of people! My next goal is to redesign my template…just got my own domain name set up and I agree – wish I’d done it sooner!
April @ Marathons N Martinis
[Reply]
Thank you for all the helpful tips!!
Carey @ Positively Blonde
[Reply]
Love this post Julie, & looking forward to the rest of the series!
Erica @ For the Sake of Cake
[Reply]
Thank you so much for this post Julie,
I am at the total beginning with my blog and have so many questions…I am also not satsisfied with blogger:-/ Maybe I will switch to wordpress as well. The blogger serie is a very good idea and I am looking forward to read the next tipps.
Thank you so much for your inspiration!
Greetings from Germany!:-)
Muesliviki
[Reply]
sometimes I feel so overwhelmed and just give up for a few days (or weeks) at a time with my blog… this info has been very helpful julie!! thank you!
Deirdre
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I doubt I’ll ever become a blogger, but these seem like great tips!
I agree with your preference of wordpress over blogger, it often affects my decision whether I’m going to follow a blog or not. Another one is that it is MUCH more likely that I’ll follow a blog, if I can subscribe to it by wordpress (instead of having to manually click to a blog). For example, even though Susan (thegreatbalancingact) has her own domain, I find it very cool that I can still follow her through the subscribe option. I also like it if I get forwarded the replies to my comments, as otherwise I feel like I’m commenting for ”nothing”.
Jessy
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love this, Julie! you smartypants.
Alyssa @ Life of bLyss
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Thank you so much for this post!! I started with WordPress, didn’t like it and went to Blogger and now I feel like I should go with WordPress again..So many decisions and so much work to do!
Danielle Spellman
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You can comment on blogger! It blocks you but if you keep pressing comment like three times it then accepts your comment!!
I discovered this when I was frustrated with it!
I always wondered about self-hosting but no one went into detail and this was finally a straight answer!
Loveeee windows live writer
The Healthy Engineer
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Awesome info, thanks! Looking forward to next Tuesday
Bee @ B*tchy Bee
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Thanks for the tips, Julie! I can relate to a lot of these as my blog is not only very new, but I also just switched to self-hosting. I’m totally checking out Live Writer!
Cait @ Cait hates Cake
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Lee @ in the pink of condition Reply:
July 26th, 2011 at 12:20 pm
Also, I hope you will change your mind about commenting on Blogger blogs! I know there are a lot of Blogger users, including myself, who are avid readers and lovers of PBFingers who might be disappointed to hear this. Great tips in this post though!
Lee @ in the pink of condition
[Reply]
Lee @ in the pink of condition Reply:
July 26th, 2011 at 12:21 pm
oops meant to comment on my own comment (below), sorry!
Lee @ in the pink of condition
[Reply]
peanutbutterfingers Reply:
July 26th, 2011 at 12:31 pm
i do try on occassion, but after trying hundreds of times (seriously!) and getting blocked time and time again, i got seriously annoyed. still, i will try every now and then if i really have something to say. if more bloggers who use blogger change their blogs to accept comments, that would be AMAZING!
peanutbutterfingers
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I don’t think it’s completely necessary to pick WordPress over Blogger. I’m pretty good at computers and HTML, but I chose Blogger over WordPress. For the comments, I just use the IntenseDebate plugin (which can be used for both Blogger and WordPress) which adds some functionality to the comments section.
Lee @ in the pink of condition
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Wow all I can say is thank you thank you!! That post helped me tremendously and I absolutely can’t wait to hear more installments!
I especially want to hear about self-hosting in regards to advertisement opportunities and around what time you did that after you started your blog. I just started mine a couple months ago and it’s an absolute passion of mine and I’m loving it and fully invested in it. So with that, I’m wondering do I make the switch now, a couple months from now, in a year? If that topic isn’t in your questions yet I’d love for you to address it in your next installment, thanks!
Thanks so much again Julie, and I’m definitely going to check out The Blog Fairy and Live Writer!
Shayla @ The Good Life
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Thank you so much for these amazing points, this post is PACKED full of information and is so helpful…I cannot wait to read the rest in the series, and am so thankful for all the time and effort you clearly put into this post. I just downloaded Live Writer too!
xyx
Yolie @ Practising Wellness
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This is great, thanks for the amazing tips! I am now considering switching to wordpress!
Hilliary @ Happily Ever Healthy
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Great post! Love the Blog Talk Tuesday ideas! SO much to learn, I’ll take all the advice I can get.
Kate @ NaturaStride
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Amen about Windows Live Writer!
RunEatRepeat
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As a brand new blogger, thank you for starting this series! Today’s post was very helpful…and I’m glad to hear I made a lot of smart decisions setting up my own blog! I also had another question I wanted to add to your list for future topics…how do you get inspiration for topics and what do you do when your creative juices just aren’t flowing? Thanks!
Amanda @ Running On Waffles
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I am excited for this series since I am currently trying to build up my blog. Do you know if there is a Mac version to Windows Live writer?
Michelle
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peanutbutterfingers Reply:
July 26th, 2011 at 12:28 pm
see response to comment #27
peanutbutterfingers
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great post..can’t wait to see what you come up with next..Tuesday seems a long time away!
alex
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Love this series- such helpful tips!
Khushboo
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How weird that after seeing this this morning my boss asked if I would create a blog for the company I work for!
Is there a way to make it where comments have to be approved before posted (on WordPress)?
Thanks!
Charlotte
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This sounds like a great series! I’m looking forward to later posts about building up your blog. Thanks for all the info!
Laura @ Unchartered 20s
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Love this! Such a helpful post! I was considering self hosting, but honestly I don’t think I have enough readers to do that just yet!
Nikki
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So excited about this series, thanks for sharing all your experiences! Live Writer is the ONE thing I really wish my Mac had… Sad. Everyone seems to rave about it!
Ciera @ Rose & Thistle
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Thank you! This made me realize I need to check my comments section too. I originally went with blogger because the layouts were so much more customizable, but I need to make sure people can interact with my customized layout!
Felicia @ Ellipticizing
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I love this! Thanks Julie! I really enjoy hearing other bloggers perspectives on these types of things because although the basics are the same, every blogger approaches blogging differently, and i love hearing the “behind the scenes” to help me grow as a blogger. Can’t wait for next week!
Mila @ lofty appetite
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This is fantastic advice, especially for us newbies to blogging! I’m definitely thinking about switching to word press now. Looking forward to seeing more
Jen @ Strides and Glides
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Great and helpful post, as usual!
I think it’s interesting that there are so many different facets and purposes to blogging. Love hearing your perspective. This is going to be a great series!
Melissa
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Amazing post! I am new to blogging so this is definitely great advice for me. I cannot wait till next Tuesday’s edition. When I get home tonight I plan to download WLW to try it out.
Chelsea @ Chelsea’s Health
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Thank you! I just started blogging two months ago, and this is sooo helpful! I’m looking forward to next week’s post!
Amber @ Stop and Smell the Wildflowers
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Does anyone know of a program similar to Live Writer that is compatible for Mac’s? I’m so jealous….
Gina @ Will Run for Cupcakes
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peanutbutterfingers Reply:
July 26th, 2011 at 2:18 pm
see response to comment #27!
peanutbutterfingers
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P.S. This post is super helpful…thank you!
Gina @ Will Run for Cupcakes
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thank you so much for the tips! I’m new to blogging (and use blogger) and had no idea about the “commenting” situation! THANKS AGAIN! got it taken care of now
Molly
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This is an absolutely fantastic post. I started my own blog about a week and a half ago and love doing it. These are great tips and I can’t wait to hear more.
BTW – Love your blog. It’s one of my faves!
Thank you!
Rosa – Fitness, Food, Fulfilled
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Fabulous post- very helpful, thanks! This is a great idea for a series! I could esp use the one about getting your own domain.. I want to asap, but was a little confused whether to do it through wordpress, or to just purchase my own from Go Daddy and go from there.
Joelle (On A Pink Typewriter)
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peanutbutterfingers Reply:
July 26th, 2011 at 2:16 pm
since you already blog from wordpress, i would just buy it through them so you don’t have to transfer it!
peanutbutterfingers
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Good stuff! I just switched my blog over to WordPress and purchased my domain. I LOVE it, I guess I was living under a rock
.
Jamily
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Love this advice! I can’t wait to apply it to my blog
Thanks for sharing.
Jen @familyfoodfitnessandfun
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Hi! This is very random, but in that photo where you are eating peanut butter off your finger, where is your shirt from?! I LOVE IT. It looks yellow, and absolutely gorgeous. I’ve been searching for a yellow shirt. Hope you can help! Thank you
Jessica
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peanutbutterfingers Reply:
July 26th, 2011 at 3:03 pm
thank you! it’s from bebe, but i got it years ago. :/
peanutbutterfingers
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Ahh this post was so frustrating but sooo helpful at the same time! What I learned from this post:
Blogger= GONE, WordPress = HELLO!
Becky @ Fit Chick on the Fly
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Thank you soo much for this post!
I started a blog afew months ago, and just got so overwhelmed that I gave up, but have always wanted to get back into it.
After reading this, I feel like I can do it!!
Lucy
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Thank you, this helped a lot! I’m going to try Live Writer for my next blog post and see how it goes. My blog is on WordPress right now, but I hope within the next couple years to expand to my own domain. I’m finally getting hits on my blog from people I don’t know and its thrilling. Thank you Julie!
P.S. Reading your blog inspired me to create my own.
Bianca
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Awesome post Julie! I just started my blog less than a month ago, and I am having so much fun with it
It’s great to hear about the nitty gritties from someone who has been there. I totally agree about wordpress! I have used both blogger (for journalism projects as a student) and wordpress, and I like wordpress leaps and bounds more than I did blogger. I need to see if there is something like live writer for Macs!
Elizabeth @ reads recipes runs
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Love this! I’ve only been blogging for 2 months and it is so much fun
I always get confused with “self-hosted” and how you still have your blog looking like it is on wordpress? Is it worth switching over? I’m on WordPress now and can’t use WLW because I have a Mac. It can take forever to get pictures up if the internet connection is bad!
Holly @ Pink Runner
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Im so excited you’re starting this! I just switched to self-hosting on Saturday and some moments I’m really happy about it, but others I get really frustrated and overwhelmed.
I’m totally confused about FeedBurner. When I look at my subscribers, every number is different. Yesterday’s number of subscribers was 3, today it is 16, but average for the last 7 days it is 1. What is the actual number of subscribers? I totally don’t get it
Jackie @ That Deep Breath
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I can’t tell you how much I appreciate this and how helpful it was!!! I can’t wait to read more
Allison (Allison’s Delicious Life)
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This was great! I know when I first started blogging, I really only told my fiancé who was the one that wanted me to start it! It took my awhile to focus on what I wanted to write about, but now that I’ve got that figured out, it’s so much fun!
Thanks for all the extra advice too!
Amanda @ Cucina Amanda
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All very interesting stuff, to be most of which I’d never appreciated in regards to blogging. Maybe one day I’ll pluck up the courage to start my own
lol
Sian
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This is all such great information Julie!
I just started blogging almost 2 months ago! I look forward to seeing more with the series!
Abby @ Abz ‘n’ Oats
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This post came at the perfect time! Thank you so much! I can’t wait to read more about self hosting because I’m having a dilemma with it myself!
Brittany @ Itty Bits of Balance
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Great tips. I’ve read multiple blogs that praise windows live writer. I have a mac and I’m wondering if u know of any good blog programs, I’ve tried ecto and I was a little “meh” about it. Thanks! looking forward to this series.
@HilaryFleming @healthgirltv
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Amazingly helpful post! I am definitely a newbie to blogging, and I need all the help I can get! I am going to begin using windows live writer immediately (how did I not know about this before?!) – I feel like posting with lots of pictures takes forever. I am GREATLY looking forward to this series! Thanks again!
Natalie @ southern fit foodie
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I have heard windows live writer is awesome! But I have a MAC, and I don’t think it works with that!?!
Anyone know! I use blogger on a Mac and I feel like uploading pictures takes me the longest. It’s so frustrating!
Samantha @ Mama Notes
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Samantha @ Mama Notes Reply:
July 26th, 2011 at 5:35 pm
nevermind, I re-read all the comments.
Samantha @ Mama Notes
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This is so helpful!! I can’t wait to see what you blog about next Tues!
I guess us mac people are at a disadvantage…. must find something like WLW!!!
lisa
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This was very helpful! I’m still on Blogger but have switched to Disqus for my comments. Seems to be a bit easier for folks! I tried to get into WordPress but had a terrible time with it for some reason.
Skinny Fat Kid
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For Mac users, it looks like the best WLW substitute is called “Blogo”. Mashable did a good piece on the top 10 similar apps you can get for your Mac here: http://mashable.com/2008/11/28/blogger-mac-apps/. Unfortunately, none are free
BUT most have free trials, so you can see what fits you best.
I have done quite a bit of browsing on the subject– I am in the process of starting my own blog but waiting to take the plunge on some of the entry level expenses, such as this one. If you already have a site up and running, its around $20, which is probably worth the time you’re spending.
Hope that helps anyone! Never thought I’d wish I had a Windows computer again…
And thanks for the great piece PBFingers! Love your blog.
Heather
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Love love love love love this idea. Tuesdays are going to be my new favorite day of the week while this series goes on haha. But seriously, I love and appreciate your insight. Thanks so much!
Bethany @ Accidental Intentions
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Okay, so if I have blogger and want to switch to wordpress, do I switch and THEN buy my own hosting? Or buy hosting first, open up wordpress account and then bring blogger oveR?
This is going to take me allll night. ha!
Samantha @ Mama Notes
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Blog Talk Tuesdays is right up my alley! Thanks for these posts. It’s like a mini blogging class from the convenience of my own home.
Jessica
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I loved this. I can’t wait for next week’s installment. I’ve been looking into wordpress for awhile and now you helped to push me in that direction. But I did allow for all comments so at least I have that going for me and my blog!
Alisa @ Running with Knives
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mkr Reply:
July 26th, 2011 at 7:33 pm
I love this comment and relate so much! I blogged for a while and then got rid of it because it was all over the place, not well designed, not really me, etc. Glad to know I’m not the only stopper and (hopefully) restarter!
mkr
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This is really cool-thanks! I’m thinking of starting a blog again… I will wait until after your series to see if I have what it takes. The time was so…scattered. I didn’t do enough research at first!
Dotsie
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I love LOVE WLW! Such a time saver. I’m going to look into getting my blog designed from the Blog Fairy. I love her designs!
Alaina
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Love this post and the idea of blog talk Tuesdays.
I’m 3 months into this blog and about ready to pull my hair out. ha! Thanks for the tips and the inspiration!
Kristin @ STUFT Mama
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Awesome post! I’ve been wanting to buy a domain for awhile, guess now’s the time. Thank you!
Jacqueline
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Very informative! Thank you for the information!
Jamie
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Thanks for posting, Julie. Although, as a Blogger user, I would argue that although WordPress may be the platform of choice, Blogger is really upping their game. I have been using it for 5 years and it suits me just fine
Tracy @ Commit to Fit
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i wish this occurred more often than just tuesday- I don’t want to wait a week for the next installation
This may have been the kick-in-the-booty that I need to finally start my own blog!
Michelle
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Of Interest:
How do you blog EVERYDAY? You always seem so happy and upbeat with every post. Do you ever have an ‘off’ day and “don’t feel like it”. With my blog, I go in spirts. I realize you have made this your full-time occupation so it is more of an obligation that just a hobby as it is to me, and once was to you.
But I would really admire some tips on how to keep “in character” and not go off on stressful rants etc.
Taryn
[Reply]
peanutbutterfingers Reply:
July 27th, 2011 at 9:29 am
love this question!!! to briefly answer it, if i really don’t want to blog, i don’t – but i definitely have more to say! stay tuned!
peanutbutterfingers
[Reply]
Thanks for doing this
I am very much looking forward to seeing the rest of your tips series!
Diana @ VeggieNextDoor
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So, I went to go switch over to wordpress last night and my blog name is already taken! My backup blog name is taken too.
What do you think about having a .net or .org if I decide to pay for the domain. The .com was taken as well!
Ashley
[Reply]
Thanks for all your advice! I finally started my blog last night after three years of lacking the courage to start a blog! I love your blog and your positive attitude!
Carrie
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I am a huge dog lover so a pic of Sadie thrown in is always an awesome treat. Good information on the blog scene. I’ve always been curioust but not enough to start one of my own.
Danielle
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Julie – I have to let you know that this has helped SO MUCH! You actually inspired me to start my own blog, which went live on Sunday, so this was absolutely perfect timing. You had some amazing tips, and I can’t wait for future posts – it is a lot of fun, but a little overwhelming – so your posts are great. Thanks!
Katrina C
[Reply]
Thanks SO much for this post! I went back to my old blog on wordpress.com after I read it. SO much better!
em @ simplypresent
[Reply]
Thanks for the info! Our stories are oddly parallel with the switch to freelancing, so I am all ears. The Live Writer tip has already saved me some time and picture formatting headaches. Looking forward to Tuesdays!
Natalie
[Reply]
I LOVED this post, so informative without being wordy!!!
Koko
[Reply]
Julie – I just read this post. It’s great. Looking forward to your Blog Talk Tuesdays series.
I have a friend who is starting a blog, I will definitely be recommending this series to them!
ps: love the sadie pics!!
Jayme @ Runner-n-Spice
[Reply]
With whom did you register your domain name? I feel like there are a ton of sites out there that do it and I was wondering if you had a recommendation. Thanks!
Jillian
[Reply]
Thank you for sharing! This is very helpful!
Allison
[Reply]
Thanks so much for inspiring me to start a blog
Hannah
[Reply]
Thanks for the tips Julie, I can’t wait until I have more time to work on my blog!!
Camille
[Reply]
Hey Julie
Check out my blog at
theworldaccording2nick.wordpress.com
let me know what you think
I have been blogging 2 weeks now and have about 100 comments
Nick DiLorenzo
[Reply]
Thank you so much for posting all of these! I know you did this a long time ago but I am just getting into the blogging world and your posts helped me immensly with starting my own blog!
Lauryn
[Reply]
You rock! Wonderful tips! I’m going to have to purchase my domain name this week!
Noella
[Reply]
Thanks for all the great information. I have recently started a wordpress blog, thanks to you and your articles. I know this post is older but, the information is still very relevant. Thank You.
Cheri
[Reply]
peanutbutterfingers Reply:
April 2nd, 2012 at 12:27 pm
i’m so glad! thank you, cheri!
peanutbutterfingers
[Reply]
Oh my gosh, Windows Live Writer is absolutely fantastic. This will it so much easier to deal with photos. Thank you for this wonderful piece of advice!!!
Nanci
[Reply]