does your blog need a face-lift?

I came across a new blog designer I'd like to introduce you to...

She has free 2 and 3 column backgrounds for you to add to your blog.
Thanks Brooke!
Or... if you'd like, she will custom design all the parts of your blog for you.
Here are her package prices:

• The Blip -$10 Background and Header (text)
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• The Blurb -$15 Background and Header w/ pictures
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• The Babble -$20 Background, Header, Post Divider and, Signature
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• Bibble Babble -$25 Background, Header w/ pics, Post Divider, Signature, Blog Button
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• Babble Everything -$50 Background, Header, Post Divider, Signature, Blog Button, Sidebar Title Buttons, Custom Title Fonts

She has a la carte prices too if you'd like help with just a thing or two.

I also love Sneaky Momma Blog Design for her DIY tips and links.

Read her recent post and the comments to find more sites that fellow bloggers look to for help.

I'm always trying to teach myself something new to change up my blog. I'm trying to figure out an image navigation bar at the moment. If you see one someday at the top of my blog, you'll know I figured it out ;-)

Are you trying to learn something new?

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do you label?

I didn't... label my posts that is, until now. For some reason I just didn't look at that space when posting. I. didn't. even. see. it.
So... I actually just finished going back a year+ through every post I've written on this blog, and added labels to them all. It took a few sittings... but I finally did it! Now, I can just click on a label and see what I've written in the past. Take my advice, if you want to be able to look back, start labeling now!

Labels for this post: e.g. scooters, vacation, fall

Show all

~ a year in the blogworld

This was my Happy New Year 2009 post, and it was actually my very first blog post, ever! I got a new laptop last year for Christmas and starting blogging shortly after. It's been a fun ride... I've read many a humorous post, been inpired by DIY ideas, given support and been supported, and gotten to know a few of you better and think of you as friends. Looking back... my most commented on posts were ones of support, and that says a lot about all of you! Thanks my blogfriends!
Happy 2K10 to all!
Have a fun and safe evening. Let's all make the most of what life has to offer this year, and continue to inspire each other!

a new blog for me!

With two blogs currently to keep up with, one personal and one for my wedding planner biz, I was still feeling the tug to venture into the creative world of design and color. I love the creativity that's possible with this blogging venue and can't seem to get enough of it! I admit, I'm like a frustrated graphic artist with no job to do or client to work for, so... you all can be my clients!
And now to introduce my latest project...

I love to make Inspiration board collages on my wedding blog, but I know that's a limited clientele, so now I'll make them of everyday things for everyday people.
As I wrote on my opening post...

"Color sets a mood and gives an artist unlimited means of expression. Color can be magical. Where composition and technique connects with our intellect, color touches our heart". -Suzie Short

I hope I can touch your heart and you enjoy visiting Hue New, and you come back often!

cracking the code

I've gone back to school, to learn a new language, it's called HTML. Very foreign and different from anything else I currently know. When I took computer classes in college, ahm, many years ago, the computer was as big as a room, and you loaded these punched out long index cards into it. I passed but I wasn't very good at it. I was a biology major with an art minor. The art classes helped me pull my science class grades up and improved my cum. It's that right brain-left brain thing or vice-versa. Now, fast forward 30 years, Computers are a lot smaller and I've found a new creative outlet! The possibilities with this vast blog world have spurred me on to want to learn. I find I'm not content with the 5 choices that Blogger gives us for fonts. Or... I'll see someone's fantastic blog layout and think "how did they do that? I want to do it too!" So, I'm teaching myself. All you have to do is Google "how to change your font..." and pick from the many tutorials that come up. Many thanks to all you geeks out there that are willing to share your knowledge with us mere mortals. Some work, some don't. Sometimes I'll change the code and nothing will happen, so I'll change it back. I always save my template first! But... when it does work I feel so accomplished! Like I've learned a new language.

Parlez-vous HTML? J'apprends!

my grateful thanks to:

my daughter Alex for showing me how to use Paint.net

Reit Wrecks at 3 Column Blogger

Annie at Blog U

Becky and Ashley at The Cutest Blog on the Block

creative juices are flowing...

I wanted to do something nice for a certain fellow blogger and decided when reading her blog, that she could use a colorful header to go along with her wonderful personality. So I made one and sent it to her, and she loves it and posted it! So then... looking around , I realized one of my other faves could use a "face lift" too, so... a new header for her was born.
I'm just fluttering around the blog world, bringing a little color to our world, and having a little creative fun! It's feels good to create and be appreciated!

You may recognize this blog favorite too... look at the new header I just made her for her birthday!

be sure to check out their fun and colorful blogs!
ps... if you'd like a "face lift" too, just let me know!

I'm having fun with this!

Done tweaking!

Between adding the 3 column layout and then changing my background to fit, updating my blog has become quite a project. If you've been visiting over the past few days you probably have noticed a few different looks, and at times things didn't seem to fit. But as of now, I think I've got it!
I had decided that "golf gal" was going to go for a new look! Maybe just a bit more sophisticated with a pink and black theme this time around.
So here it is, tah dah! My new and hopefully improved blog layout and color palette... hope you like it!

show us where you live: the office

Thank goodness for the laptop computer! Instead of a bulky desktop modem and a tangled heap of cords, we can work in a clean, unencumbered environment.

This is where I write Bridal Buzz from Wed Event Design
and Tales of a Golf Gal.
In the keeping room off of my kitchen, with my 3 pups close by, and a view of the pond out back for inspiration.


I had my office in a little room down the hall, but I like this space better where I'm out in the living area.
Being an empty nester it's my space to enjoy!

Happy Friday!

facelift

3 column layouts seem to be the next best thing so I'm giving it a try. Still can't get the middle green background to fit. I need some help from my tech savvy family! Help!!!

the blogging world: a repost

this world is huge! From what I can tell so far, it's mostly, ~ 99%, women who are bloggers. (I'm giving the men 1%, but I've never actually read a guy's blog, okay, truth be told I have read a few now).
Why do you think that is? What is this blogging world? Is it a social phenomenon?
With our new found technologies, guys have gaming and girls still have each other. Kinda like the good old days, before the Internet was invented, when women had coffee clotches and playgroups, and girls night out. I think women have always done a good job of "networking", seeking each other out to share feelings and findings, vent and brag, be there to listen and support each other through good times and bad. Now, in this new world, we have so many more ears to hear us! So many comments to give to strangers who have become our cyberfriends.
Girlpower is stronger than ever and alive online!

I looked it up and from wikipedia the definition of Blog = web log = a commentary, news or a personal diary of sorts, that combines text and images with links a must and the ability for the reader to leave a comment (my edited version of the wikipedia paragraph).
Still curious though, I've researched the history of blogging and where and when it all started. Come to find out, it was started by men! Who would'a thought! Take a look:

The Early Years

January 1994
Swarthmore student Justin Hall creates first blog ever, Links.net.

1 Comment | Add Yours

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December 1997
Online diarist Jorn Barger coins the term “Weblog” for “logging the Web.”

April 1999
Programmer Peter Merholz shortens “Weblog” to “blog.”

August 1999
Blogger rolls out the first popular, free blog-creation service.

January 2000
Boing Boing is born.

July 2000
AndrewSullivan.com launches.

February 2002
Heather Armstrong is fired for discussing her job on her blog, Dooce. “Dooced” becomes a verb: “Fired for blogging.”

August 2002
Nick Denton launches Gizmodo, the first in what will become a blog empire. Blogads launches, the first broker of blog advertising.

December 2002
Talking Points Memo highlights Trent Lott’s racially charged comments; thirteen days later, Lott resigns from his post as Senate majority leader.

December 2002
Gawker launches, igniting the gossip-blog boom.

March 2003
“Salam Pax,” an anonymous Iraqi blogger, gains worldwide audience during the Iraq war.

June 2003
Google launches AdSense, matching ads to blog content.

August 2003
The first avalanche of ads on political blogs.

September 2003
Jason Calacanis founds Weblogs, Inc., which eventually grows into a portfolio of 85 blogs.

January 2004
Denton launches Wonkette.

March 2004
Calacanis poaches Gizmodo writer Peter Rojas from Denton. Denton proclaims himself “royally shafted” on his personal blog.

December 2004
Merriam-Webster declares “blog” the “Word of the Year.”

January 2005
Study finds that 32 million Americans read blogs.

and there you have it girls... your history lesson for the day! Of course since 2005 women have surely taken over the blogging world, right?

PS... if you write a blog post and no one comments, is that like talking to yourself?

I originally wrote this after 1 month of being in the blogging world... oh my have I learned so much from all of you!

100th for Grey's /100th for Golf Gal

it's the 100th episode for Grey's Anatomy
and the 100th post for Tales of a Golf Gal
on the same day. today. May 7th! What a co-ink-y-dink!
I have watched now and then through the years, but the best part of the Grey's 100th show is Izzie's wedding website and the the bridal registry she has set up. The purpose... if you feel compelled to give a gift to this imaginary couple, is for you instead to give a donation to these worthy foundations and associations:

In Lieu of Gifts, Your Support for the Following Charities is Appreciated!

American Academy of Neurology Foundation

The American Academy of Neurology Foundation helps people with brain tumors, dementia, multiple sclerosis, Parkinson’s disease, autism, headache, stroke, and hundreds of other neurologic disorders. To donate or learn more, visit www.thebrainmatters.org/buyabrain

American Skin Association

100 Million Americans Suffer from Skin Cancers, Diseases and Disorders. American Skin Association is dedicated to advancing research, educating children and expanding awareness of the skin's vital role in good health. For more information, visit http://www.americanskin.org/donate

Alzheimer's Association

As most of you know Meredith’s mom Dr. Ellis Grey had Alzheimer’s before her death in 2007. The Alzheimer's Association is the leading voluntary health organization in Alzheimer care, support and research. The Association’s mission is to eliminate Alzheimer’s disease through the advancement of research; to provide and enhance care and support for all affected; and to reduce the risk of dementia through the promotion of brain health. Their vision is a world without Alzheimer’s. For more information, visit http://www.alz.org/Meredith_and_Derek

watch the show tonight and enjoy, Thursday May 7th at 9pm est, but more importantly... click on the above links and educate yourself... and... donate what you can!

Congratulations to Meredith and Derek

let's see if they really go through with it!

update: there was a last minute switch up for the bride and groom to Izzie and Alex. Izzie has another tumor in her brain. Not such good news. Anyone I've known in the real world with a brain melanoma hasn't survived. I'm thinking this is her last season.

and the winner is...

okay, I know this was a long time in coming, but I wanted to give you all plenty of time to enter this fabulous Crate and Barrel giveaway. Well, today's the day we find out the winner of Golf Gal vs. Bridal Buzz.
At the end of the 3 week contest, Tales of a Golf Gal was the follower winner over Bridal Buzz from WED event design. But no fear, I will be continuing with both blogs, as they each provide different outlets for my creativity and interests.

And now for the winner of the giveaway...drumroll...

with a random no peek pick, the winner is:

Amy is a bride to be and a Bridal Buzz follower, congratulations Amy!
Her blog is:

a great read! click her header and check her out.
here's your giveaway prize Amy!
Enjoy your margaritas in your new Crate and Barrel Cabo pitcher and glasses!

and many thanks to all my loyal followers of both my blogs!


Amy, I'll shoot you an email so I can get your mailing info, congrats!

remember... my giveaway contest!

Bridal Buzz from WedEventDesign
and Tales of a Golf Gal
are having a contest to see who has the most loyal followers!
Follow one site and get 1 entry
Follow both sites and get 2 entries
Post about the contest on your blog and get 3 more entries!
...and as always, please leave a comment so I know you're in!

Crate and Barrel
the Cabo Glassware Pitcher and 4 Stemless Drink Glasses
Crisp, clean, refreshing and green! Perfect for your outdoor summer fetes!

are you in?add this button to your blog and link to

http://countryclublivinblogspot.com/2009/04/ready-for-summer-contest-giveaway.html
I'll draw the lucky winner on 4-24-09

Crate and Barrel giveaway!

Bridal Buzz from WedEventDesign
and Tales of a Golf Gal
are having a contest to see who has the most loyal followers!
Follow one site and get 1 entry
Follow both sites and get 2 entries
Post about the contest on your blog and get 3 more entries!
...and as always, please leave a comment so I know you're in!
the giveaway prize is from
Crate and Barrel
the Cabo Glassware Pitcher and 4 Stemless Drink Glasses
Crisp, clean, refreshing and green! Perfect for your outdoor summer fetes!
are you in?

add this button to your blog and link to
http://countryclublivinblogspot.com/2009/04/ready-for-summer-contest-giveaway.html
I'll draw the lucky winner on 4-24-09

Fab Award goes to...

I'd like to pass on an award to a very deserving blogger...
Pink Martini
of "Pink Martinis and Pearls".
A California girl, pending empty nester with a wonderful family, who has great fashion sense, makes the most delicious looking cupcakes, and writes fun uplifting posts that are a must read (with musical accompaniment too)!
So... Pink Martini, I'd like to give you the...
Fabulous at 50 Blogger Award
Thanks for your delightful insight and your witty way of telling tales, giving us a glimpse into our own memories!

positive press

I feel so honored! The Golf Girl of Golf Girl's Diary likes my blog! :-) here's her recent post:

Golf Girl's Monday Meanderings

The amazing wave of new golf blogs continues. So much so that the reconstruction of my lost link list, is still not done. My goal (I assure you) is to have it up by week's end.

In the meantime however, there's one new golf blog that's so cute and so light-hearted I just had to give it a quick shout out. It's called Tales of a Golf Gal, and it's a slice-of-life chronicle by a preppy southerner, a recreational golfer who, I gather, is a wedding planner by trade.
The short pictorial posts are quick and easy to read. They're personal tales...you'll find no rehashing of televised tournaments, or analysis of the latest Nike driver here. I love the design too, with it's textured pages and argyle background, it's a refreshing break from the sterile templates that tend to dominate the golf blog world. It definitely made me want to redesign (or just design) this blog.
For a spirited start to your golf blog reading this week check out Tales of a Golf Gal.

Oh my, I'm blushing... thanks Patricia!

feelin' the love

I'd like to pass on an award I recently received, to a new blog friend of mine Preppy 101 of
"All things Southern and Preppy".
A fellow retiree who loves her family, decorating and "My Fair Lady" (just happens to be my favorite musical too). Too bad you don't play golf Preppy!
I did the math from your "Barbie" post to figure out that I could give you this Fabulous at 50 Blogger Award
I hope you accept this award, Preppy 101, given to you from a Yankee celebrating being down south for 20 years this April.

my prize came today!

Thank you to Preppy Princess for my giveaway prize! I won the Lilly mug and mouse pad in the Cabanarama pattern, too cute!

She even wrapped them, what a wonderful treat to get in the mail. Thanks again PP!

Gals, check out my giveaway on Bridal Buzz too! The drawing is next week on St Patty's day.

spring ahead and win a giveaway from...

check out my other blog Bridal Buzz and enter the give away! Pics and more details over at BB...

Get it out there Give Away!

I recently started this blog, Bridal Buzz, to introduce my wedding and event design business in Atlanta, and also to help brides everywhere with online sources and inspiration in planning their wedding. I love a good bargain and will pass anything worthwhile I find on to you. I recently found a deal at an Atlanta stationery shop, Paper Affair. So... for my very first give away, I am offering my readers a deal on monogrammed note cards, something a bride or anyone can always use. The winner will pick two of the note card samples above and choose a monogram with their initials, and I'll have it printed and sent to you!

All you have to do to enter is:

1. Add my Bridal Buzz button and link it to wedeventdesign.blogspot.com
   
2. Become a follower of Bridal Buzz, and leave a comment
   
3. Blog about my contest on your blog
4. Do all 3 and I'll enter you 3x
   
5. The drawing will be on St. Patrick's Day! May the luck o' the Irish be with you!

and the Award goes to...

"Hamilton Happenings" has seen many face lifts since the blog started last fall. Kelly is very creative on her computer! She loves to design headers, and created my Golf Gal header above, isn't it cute?!
If you go back in time, I think she's had ~4 different layouts and headers to match. She has even designed for several blogs out there that you know, just because she enjoys it.
So... I would like to award this "Kreativ Blogger" award to Kelly!
She is so deserving!

Here are a few of the headers she has done for your fellow bloggers: