Since the economy is chugging slower now, as things slow down for me (IF they do) then I’ll probably get more time to write.

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The Idylic WordPress theme is made available under the Creative Commons Attribution 2.5 License.
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I heard that there was some copycats out there… clearly they took my idea and stuck in their own parts. Shamey, shamey….

–EDIT–
OK, ok, this was all a very cool, very pointed April Fools joke. It’s worth reading the background story (also here), and the originator’s reaction here.
Lauren Smith has the most comprehensive list that I have found yet, demonstrating the vast extent of this awesome joke…

Update: A good collection of the logos can be seen here on Flickr.

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More internet searching is in order. If anyone knows about some good (basic) tutorials for this sort of thing, I’d love to hear about them.

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What does that mean exactly? Well, A personal blog allows you to see who you’re reading, both in words and pictures. After a few articles, you’ll begin to know the blogger through use of personal anecdotes, an author profile, and a photo. The opposite would be a blog with no photo, no name, and no personal effects embedded into the writing.

So what are the benefits? The main point that Ade made (and I agree) is that it allows the reader to do their ‘research’ without the inconvenience of a phone call.

That sounds a little “big brother” but Ade makes a good point. Whether we realize it or not, every day we are researching our surroundings. Before you buy anything, you go online to research the product. Before you shop at a store, your research is usually already completed via past experiences, talking to friends, and other references. Before you decide to take new friends out to dinner, you’re “screening” them thru casual conversation. Do they fit your style? Do you like the same things? Are they compatible for an enjoyable relationship?

The same thing happens with a blog. Usually, the stakes are low. Typical readers are there for information or entertainment, it’s a casual encounter. But it is always a good reason to put your best face forward, because you never know who will be reading.

As Ade and I discussed this topic, a great example developed: as a freelancer, one possible use for a blog is to allow your prospective clients to “interview” you without the phone call. Sure they may like your work, but what kind of person are you? Are you thoughtful and intelligent? Are you confident? A blog can help answer those questions. If a blogger is writing about things that they are passionate about, they some of them will come through within the content.

Just like good design, a blog is a tool to convey meaning on a more subtle level – the level of feelings and impressions. Through use of words and images, exactly like in design, you can take hold of the impressions of a viewer and instill confidence. Knowledge is a good thing, and giving out this knowledge will increase the level of trust.

So now I have to take a decent photo. I vow to break out the camera, lights, and tripod and make this happen. Wish me luck!

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When it comes to networking online, a blog is a great way to go even if there’s no blockbuster effect. For the effort involved, one can, at the very least, entertain their friends.

Anyhow, this is a web design blog, more of a networking and local-web-stuff blog than a “web 2.0 and Ajax” blog. (there are many of them out there, and quite a few of them are flat-out terrific, no need to try and compete.)

I know of a lot of web designers in Indianapolis. The city supports a surprising amount of us. It seems like every week I hear of another freelancer or local group of networked individuals making a living at web design and development in Indianapolis. Every year the local universities release students into the workforce. Traditionally Indianapolis has suffered from the “brain-drain,” but a lot of good quality web designers stay here and contribute to he local economy. Indianapolis is a great place to live after all, with the low cost of living and friendly hoosiers.

Well, this seems like a good first post. That’s all for now.

I’m not a football fan.. but “Go Colts!“