Site Update: Getting Better Everyday
“They say that time changes things, but you actually have to change them yourself.”
- Andy Warhol
When I logged on from a friend’s computer with a different browser from the one I normally use, I realised that the site was showing up weird. That of course triggered yet another site update and a whole day tweaking the theme.
Since I have some readers with an eagle eye who will spot these changes quite quickly, I thought should give you a quick run-down so you’re not surprised if you visit the site.
Theme Change
Old
I was using the Simple Balance theme by Alex of Blogsessive which is excellent, so I must make it clear that it was not the theme but my excessive fiddling with it that did the damage. (Sorry, Alex!)
Instead of trying to put it right which I doubt I’m capable of technically, or reverting to the original theme and feeling like I’ve gone backwards, I decided to switch themes.
New
The new theme is Simple Mind by Publisher Heaven. I was amazed at how professional it looked, yet at the moment it is available free.
Font Size
Old
Font size was a given (read it or leave it). Your only option was to adjust font size using your own browser’s shortcuts, which not everyone knows how to do.
New
At the beginning of each post, just click on “Increase Font Size” or “Decrease Font Size” until you get a size you want. Voila! Comfortable reading is just a click away.
Threaded Comments
Old
The comments system was linear and chronological. I am grateful for readers who have started to reply to my and others’ comments, though this meant that it was sometimes difficult to know which comment we are referring to in our later comments.
New
The Thread Comments plugin means you can now reply to each other’s comments by clicking the ‘Reply’ option under each comment. It will be easier to follow the discussion because related comments will be nested.
You will also get an email alert if anyone replies to your comment. The option is on by default, but if you’d rather not receive the email alert, just uncheck the option you’ll see under your reply:
◊ Notify me of follow-up comments via email
Recent Comments
Old
Although recent comments were visible in the sidebar, you could see only excerpts of recent comments and had to go to the comments section of the post to view the entire comment.
New
You now have the option of clicking on the expand symbol (“>>”) under a person’s comment in the sidebar to read the entire comment there. The date and time of the comment are also displayed in the expanded view.
This wasn’t a conscious change on my part. The WP Recent Comments plugin did not function fully in the old site for some reason, but is playing to its full strength now in the new.
Updated Blogroll
Old
It’s been some time since I updated this, and number stood at 6 blogs I like and 10 personal growth blogs.
New
I’ve added 9 great blogs by wonderful bloggers to the list. Apologies if yours is deserving and I’ve left it out. I’ll add them when I get more organised or if you remind me!
Blogs I Like
Henie writes with gushing enthusiasm for life and takes the most beautiful photos which she puts on her blog with great captions, quotes, and messages.
Ian Peatey @ Quantum Learning
Ian’s blog is about non-violence as a lifestyle. We certainly need more people like Ian who are willing to raise awareness in the area.
I’m full of admiration for Vered’s intelligence and humour. She posts some deeply personal sharing, sharp insights, as well hilarious digs at the follies of society.
Personal Growth blogs
Arswino @ Inspiration & Motivation Blog
Arswino’s posts on real-life stories of heroism and love have brought tears to my eyes. This is the blog to visit if you need a pick-me-up.
Dustin’s blog was started as a means to help him stay on a financial journey that he mapped out for himself. How’s that for goal-oriented and accountable?
I recently found out that Giovanna is a retired millionaire from starting her own business from scratch and selling it a few years later. Lots to learn from her!
Stacey’s writing is conversational and easy to read. Her posts are knowledgeable and thoughtful, and she asks some good questions.
Tess is a life coach and a very lovely lady who challenges us to live boldly. She also walks the talk and shares her own fascinating story on her blog.
Tom @ Tomasz Gorecki
I’ve only recently known Tom and his site challenges the societal norms that we sometimes take for granted and forget to question.
Getting better everyday!
That’s the new site motto. It happened by chance, since I needed something to fit into the exact space in the logo that came with the new theme. This will have to do until I come up with my own ultra-professional logo!
It’s kind of meaningful though, in retrospect. The site getting better… me getting better… readers getting better… life getting better… That’s what this blog started out to be about anyway.
I even came up with a ditty based on the motto. It’s really tacky but I’ll leave it up on the homepage until I come up with something better. Read it and laugh! :)
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42 Responses to “Site Update: Getting Better Everyday”
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February 9th, 2009 @ 11:57 pm
Daphne, don’t worry. I’m glad that Simple Balance did the job for you for as long as you needed it. That’s the whole point right?
And also, thank you for all your kind comments that I’ve been reading on other blogs about this theme.
Blog on!
February 10th, 2009 @ 12:31 am
Daphne
I like the new look – simple but stylish!
And I’m so touched to be included on your list of ‘blogs you like’. That made my day! Ian
February 10th, 2009 @ 1:27 am
What a great new look! Great sites to add to your blog roll! I love it!
February 10th, 2009 @ 2:23 am
I like it!!!
February 10th, 2009 @ 4:01 am
I liked Alex’s old theme – but equally, I quite like your new layout, as I’m a fan of really light colors.
Are you going to change your favicon to match the new color scheme (or is just my browser that has the old one cached?)
Cheers
Patrick
February 10th, 2009 @ 5:10 am
Hi Daphne,
A new look! I like it, you’re trying out some new ideas, and seeing how they work – very cool! And I’m curious too, how it all works out, especially the threaded comments – so I’m watching with interest!
What I really like – is a crisp and clean feel here. And a new picture of you!! Joyful days indeed Daphne!!
February 10th, 2009 @ 6:11 am
Daphne,
The site looks good and thanks for updated blogroll. I’m always looking for new places and people to visit. Be back soon.
February 10th, 2009 @ 7:34 am
@Alex,
I’ll give your theme a big thumbs up anytime. In fact I know two other bloggers using it now and they wisely kept the structure so it still looks beautiful.
Thanks for the personal touch in replying, Alex.
(Trying out the new threaded comments in this reply, hope it works!)
February 10th, 2009 @ 7:35 am
@Ian,
It’s my pleasure to include your site. I enjoy having you around here too!
February 10th, 2009 @ 7:40 am
@ Jay, aargh… I forgot to include Inner Noodle. I knew I was supposed to add one more! Sorry, it’s on the list now.
@ Middle Way, thanks!
@ Patrick, thanks for asking about the favicon. I’ll get round to it at some point! And you changed your nick to “is” instead of “@” right? I like it!
@ Lance, you are so sweet as usual. That’s an awful picture but will have to do until I find a nicer one!
@ Sara, thanks and enjoy those sites. Every one is great in its own way.
February 10th, 2009 @ 7:58 am
Nice! Your blog is really getting better everyday :-) looks sophisticated and simple at the same time. By the way,I got to your latest post by clicking the archive section. Is there another way to see it from your home page?
February 10th, 2009 @ 8:00 am
Ooops, I guess I wasnt able to read the big headlines right on your home page, its right infront of my face, haha. It was there alright, nice work Daphne!
February 10th, 2009 @ 12:35 pm
Awe Daphne! Thanks so much. It was an honor enough to just know you, but this is so sweet. Thank you!
February 10th, 2009 @ 3:24 pm
Hi Daphne
I love your new site, it is fantastic :-)
I love the lay out, look and feel. Best part of me is to see you happy face on your about me. Now I get to see you everything I come by :-)
Great job.
Giovanna Garcia
Imperfect Action is better than No Action
February 10th, 2009 @ 3:52 pm
Hey Daphne! What a fantastic and refreshing new look!! Joyful days is indeed getting better everyday, along with yours visitors! :D
(Btw, not sure if you noticed but there’s two ‘Notify me of followup comments via email’ check box below the comment box!)
February 10th, 2009 @ 5:56 pm
@ Jocelyn, sorry about the confusion. The homepage is not great at the moment and I’ll work on it when I have time on Thursday. Thanks for visiting and trying it out!
@ Jay, no worries. Sorry I left it out the first time. It was definitely in my mental list, and I got sleepy and left out a few I’m sure.
@ Giovanna, you are too sweet. I’m glad you like the photo because I’m not sure I do, but it’s better than having no photo!
@ Celes, thanks for pointing that out. I had two comments plugins activated, and have done away with one. I’m not sure about actually getting better everyday, but that’s certainly the plan! ;)
February 10th, 2009 @ 7:17 pm
Great Daphne!
I love your logo. And the colours…
Juliet
February 10th, 2009 @ 11:24 pm
Daphne,
What a nice change. Thanks for the link love. I do like “Getting Better Everyday.” Isn’t that all any of us can do? I’m checking out the other links!
February 11th, 2009 @ 4:18 am
Daphne,
I was experimenting with tons of themes and then returned to my current from the master of all – Chris Pearson. I am using his Copyblogger free theme.
What I value on blogs beside the content is the easiness of finding stuff on it.
It’s good move to experiment – getting better every day indeed ;)
February 11th, 2009 @ 5:37 am
Congratulations on the new theme…something I’m working on as well and it’s a lot of work. Great job!
Thank you for the add to the blogroll, a reminder that mine needs updating as well. I appreciate the mention!
February 11th, 2009 @ 6:24 am
Daphne. I’m in love with your new theme. I just want to shout it again… I LOVE YOUR NEW THEME! Very clean and professional. It does look like it has many advantages.
February 11th, 2009 @ 11:14 am
This new theme is great! Very fresh. “Fresh dose of joy” ;)
I like how you have the bottom widgets to showcase your About, Popular Posts, and “Around This Blog”.
You’ll have to update us on how it’s working for you!
I changed my theme a week or two ago (yes my days seem to run into each other lately, haha…)
And let me just tell you it is a lot less stressful to have a theme work for you instead of the other way around!
February 11th, 2009 @ 2:21 pm
Hi Daphne, I love the new look. It seems more fresh than before.
We always must change, don’t we?
Always be success, Daphne. :)
February 11th, 2009 @ 4:23 pm
A new makeover? Definitely an improvement from the previous one. It seems like many bloggers are making changes to their blog design. Great way to start the new year!
February 11th, 2009 @ 7:47 pm
I recently discovered your blog and love it! Keep up the great work! :)
February 12th, 2009 @ 7:00 am
Hi Daphne,
Your blog looks GREAT. Thank you so much for the kind words!
Vered
February 12th, 2009 @ 10:40 pm
Daphne
To be honest, I still prefer the old design. Perhaps the use of typography here isn’t as good as Simple Balance but that’s just me.
But then it’s good to try something new once in a while. So far the feedback has been pretty good. I guess I make a fool of myself to think otherwise…. ;(
Yan
February 13th, 2009 @ 9:10 am
Hi Daphne, this is my first time here, but I really like the layout. :) I think changing themes or redesigning is almost as fun as going through your wardrobe & giving away unused clothes to make space for the potential of new clothes. ;)
I really like your blog name: Joyful Days, isn’t that what we’re all after in the end?
February 13th, 2009 @ 9:53 am
Hi Daphne,
New appearance is more professional as I feel.And me too love it.Especially the new features.
Good Luck with the new life!
February 13th, 2009 @ 9:55 am
@ Juliet, thanks for your kind comment!
@ Tess, yes we can only do our best. Hope you liked the other sites – they’re all great!
@ Alik, thanks for sharing your preference for easy navigation. I’ll take note of that.
@ Stacey, you’re more than welcome for the mention. I’m glad to know I’m not the only one constantly tweaking my site!
@ Jennifer, aww… you’re too sweet. Thanks for shouting in favour of the new theme!
@ Carlota, you’re right about a good theme making all the difference. This footer came with theme so it was easy to just customise. My connection has been down but I will visit your new site very soon!
@ Arswino, yes change seems to be irresistible when it comes to blog design, as with anything else I suppose. Thanks for your encouragement!
@ Evelyn, glad you think this design works. I love the simplicity and professionalism of yours, and hope to achieve the same or similar here.
@ Metaphysical Junkie, welcome! I’m glad you like it and will be visiting you soon!
@ Vered, glad you like it, and my thoughts on your site are genuinely from the heart!
@ Yan, what I like about you is your honest yet kind way of saying your thoughts. Please don’t apologise for that. Yes, there are some things I miss about the Simple Balance design too, including the font. I appreciate your feedback and will take this into account. Thanks again!
@ Natalie, welcome! I love having a billionaire woman here and will certainly be visiting your blog to learn how to become one myself! And you’re right, we all just want to be happy! I love the analogy of the wardrobe – that does bring me joy too! :)
February 13th, 2009 @ 9:57 am
@ Vikum, thanks very much for your vote, and well wishes. Good luck with all our blogs!
February 14th, 2009 @ 7:04 pm
Love the new layout.
Cheers
Kim
February 14th, 2009 @ 7:32 pm
@Kim, thanks for visiting and commenting! All the best with your new blog. I like the artwork and am subscribed already!
February 15th, 2009 @ 10:34 pm
AWESOME !!
February 15th, 2009 @ 11:52 pm
I’m new to your blog, but I like what I see (well, except that I hate green, but I’m goofy like that lol), and like how you’ve lined everything up. Mostly I like your spirit; I will be following this blog from now on.
February 16th, 2009 @ 6:39 pm
Hi Daphne
Hope you had a great Valentine’s w/end! Just to say this new look for your site is really user-friendly and I esp like the round ‘faces’ next to the title – in fact it makes me think that you now have your own logo. Great pic of you under About You too.
Also, wanted to reiterate how lovely it is to see that your blog has gone from strength to strength and you are now getting so many readers and comments (totally well deserved ….) so you must be over the moon. Out of interest, do you feel you’ve been doing anything esp. different to promote your blog? Eg I see you’re now on Twitter and was just wondering what other social media marketing you do if any?
Anyway Daphne here’s to a great week.
All the best for now
Tamsin/nudgeme
February 16th, 2009 @ 7:49 pm
Hi Mitch, welcome and I’m glad you like it here. Actually I don’t like green either, and find it weird that the themes I like just happen to come in green! Thanks for following – I’ll try to write posts worthy of your time reading.
February 16th, 2009 @ 7:55 pm
Hey Tamsin, good to see you here as always! I take this as a good sign that your internet connection is strong and healthy and you’re happily settled into your new place?
I’m glad you like the round faces though I can’t claim credit for them. The logo came with the theme and I just customised the words. The photo of me… I don’t know where I’m finding all this courage to go so public – this was meant to be an anonymous blog!
Thanks for your kind words about my blog. Readership grew after an interview with Lance who sent his lovely readers my way, and also because a few people (bless them!) stumbled some posts which sent more people here.
Apart from that I don’t market this blog as much as I should. I’m on Twitter every few days for about 10 minutes which really isn’t much. I’ve been meaning to be more active on social media this year, but it’s a slow start!
Hope you had a lovely lovely Valentine, Tamsin. I did!
February 16th, 2009 @ 9:40 pm
Thanks Daphne – yes I did have a lovely Valentine’s Day and so glad you did too! Great that you increased your readership through your interview, and I’m not a bit surprised people are stumbling your blog as it’s always got great, interesting content that makes one thing – and cheerful insights about life, which I feel everyone can do with a bit of esp. in these uncertain times!
As always, I look forward to my daily fix!
Tamsin/nudgeme
February 18th, 2009 @ 8:55 pm
Great update Daphne, really looks professional.
Seems like your site is a lot more popular than the last time I remember. You must be doing something right :)
Cheers,
Glen
February 18th, 2009 @ 10:52 pm
Thanks Glen. I hope I’m doing something right too! You certainly seem to be on PluginID. Great going there!
March 21st, 2009 @ 1:40 pm
Just wanted to comment and say you’re site is good as it’s always been, with lots of wisdom and excellent content overall. Glad to see it’s getting more attention, all of which is well deserved.
Dan