Boot Scootin’ Re-Launch Party!

Howdy!

Welcome to the party everyone!
 
Y’all might want to grab a glass of the bubbly before we take a look around.


(I only bring this picture out on special occations!)

Yes, I thought we were due for a blog party around here. It’s been six long months since a post on this site has hit the Blogosphere. And we’ve got a lot to celebrate!
 
Well, what do you think? Do you like what you see? It’s a big change, isn’t it?
 
As you know, change doesn’t always come easy. In my case, or should I say in the case of my old theme, it was dying a slow death. Plugins refused to play nice with widgets who refused to play nice with the theme. It would send your comments to spam, yet spammers were allowed to leave a comment. You have no idea how many times I’ve saved all of you from the trash.

Time for a fresh start and a new beginning!

So I called the illustrious Wana Web Techie Guru, Laird Sapir.

But I had to wait. Yes, it seems Laird is a pretty popular web techie gal. Yet, just in time for spring, she became available. And as I found out, if you’re willing to wait, you may even be serenaded by her three year old daughter. “I love you, you love me.” Yep, she’s that precious!
It always pays to be patient. And as you can see, Laird was so worth the wait!

Let’s scoot to the top of the page shall we and take a look at the new header. You may have noticed that my tagline “Life Happens” went missing. I wasn’t quite sure where to put it. So it is my hope that these pictures will say more than words. They are the backdrop of my life and the stomping ground for the main characters of my future books.

Yes, life will still be happening around here! :)

You’ll notice as you scroll down the left sidebar, there’s the usual About and Contact page. And right below is my picture. Now we, as in Amber West and Lynn Kelley, graciously tried to play with a new picture in Photoshop. Thank you Amber and Lynn! Well…my picture looked quite frankly…Photoshoped. Lol! So I opted to leave the old picture in place because it’s the same little ol’ me. Besides, a new picture gives us all something to look forward to in the future.

Now directly underneath is my “Follow” information. If you haven’t already subscribed to my blog, you are more than welcome to join us at any time. As you can see, I am not a blog maniac. I do not blog five thousand times a week.

Then of course, you may also Follow Me on Twitter, Facebook or LinkIn. How cool is that?

Scootin’ right along, next you’ll find my Facebook Author “Like” and Twitter feeds, archived posts and then if you scroll down just a little bit further, you’ll notice something kind of special at the end of the sidebar. Do you see it?

Yep, it’s the Pelican. He’s a pretty handsome dude, don’t you think? I thought he’d make a great mascot. But there’s only one problem. He has no name. I had thought of naming him Alfred. Don’t ask me why. There is no rhyme or reason to my madness. But hubby hated it. “No, don’t name that poor bird Alfred!” I know, he needs to get his own blog. Lol. Then I thought, why not ask all of you what you think might be a good name for him. He can’t just not have a name. After all, he deserves some recognition since he plans on staying for a while.

So what do you think? How do you like my new Digs? Please do that poor bird handsome Pelican a favor and suggest a name for him in the comments section before you Boot Scoot your way out of here. And of course, you know I’d love to hear how y’all are doing!

Cheers everyone! It’s great to be back. Thank you as always for all your support and wonderful comments! See you next week!
Karen

70 thoughts on “Boot Scootin’ Re-Launch Party!

  1. Jennette Marie Powell

    Well, I am late to the party as usual. But so glad to see you back! Your new site design is very nice, and what’s not to like about a cute pelican? No suggestions for names, but when I see one, I always think of the rhyme my grandpa used to say when I was a little kid visiting him in Florida:

    “A strange old bird is the pelican. His beak can hold more than his bellycan.”

    Looking forward to seeing what name you choose!
    Jennette Marie Powell recently posted..Do You Need a Vacation?My Profile

    Reply
    1. Karen Post author

      You are so not late Jennette! No worries girl. How are you? I hope you had a great vaca with hubby! Thank you so much! I absolutely LOVE the rhyme that your grandfather used to say. And since you left it behind, I think that I’m going to steal it. It’s really apropos. Thanks for your support Jennette and have a great week! 🙂

      Reply
    1. Karen Post author

      Ha, ha, ha, Jenny, you are in rare form girl! Love the “P” names. Very clever. Believe it or not, I like the name Pepper. But what’s up with Floyd? Where in the world did that come from? Although, as you can see, there have been a lot of interesting names suggested by this awesome bunch of peeps! Thanks for your input Jenny! ((Hugs!)) 🙂

      Reply
  2. Kelly Byrne

    The site looks great, Karen. I had no idea when I found you last week here that it had been so long since your last post. Welcome back!

    Now, for the bird, I’m going to tell you the first name that popped into my head when I saw his attitude: Stanford. I think there’s some potential there. 😉 Whatever you decide to name him, I’m glad you’re back up and running. I hope the site doesn’t give you any more headaches. I know how frustrating it can be.

    Laird really is wonderful. 🙂

    Also, where did you get the plugin (I assume it’s a plugin) for the comments that detail each commenter’s last post with their site. It’s a great addition and I’d love to put it on my blog as well. Such a cool way to share people’s work. Thanks!
    Kelly Byrne recently posted..Adolescent Hormones & Love Notes: A Cautionary TaleMy Profile

    Reply
    1. Karen Post author

      Hi Kelly! Thank you girl! Hee, hee, hee. Well, that’s because I left the publishing date off. That way, if something like last time happens again, my post still looks current. You are the first to name the Pelican “Stanford”. I think that’s a great name. Definite potential, for sure. This is going to be a tough decision. Thank you for your suggestion Kelly! Now about that plugin. I like it too. It’s called “Comment Luv.” And it’s a great way to give other authors recognition for their work. You’ll love it. 🙂

      Reply
    1. Karen Post author

      Hola Colin! Como esta? Thank you so much. I think Dale’s masculinity was a bit threatened by being the only male at the party until you dropped by. So I know that he appreciated it. And of course, so do I. It’s great to be back. I hope all is well in your little corner of the world! 🙂

      Reply
  3. Lynn Kelley

    The new site looks audacious! Excellent! I love it! Nothing wrong with using the same profile pic for now, and you’re right, we’ll look forward to seeing your new pic when you have it doe.

    So it’s a no go for “Alfred.” The pelican looks very distinguished. How about “Hitchcock?” 🙂

    I absolutely LOVE your new header. Bravo to Laird. Nice work. Welcome back to blogging, Karen!
    Lynn Kelley recently posted..The Dance – It’s National Poetry Month!My Profile

    Reply
    1. Karen Post author

      Hi Lynn! Audacious? Well, I guess it was a bit of a risk. So glad you love it and the picture. Thanks for understanding my dear friend. And we’ll have to see what the Pelican thinks of the name Hitchcock. As you can see, there’s quite a number of names that have been thrown around. He’s got a big decision to make. In the meantime, dig your feet in some sand and enjoy the bubbly Lynn. And thanks so much for your support! 🙂

      Reply
    1. Karen Post author

      Hey Julie! So glad you like it. Yep, I was a little nervous about the blog switcheroo. But I think it’s going to work out nicely. Thank you so much girl! 🙂

      Reply
    1. Karen Post author

      Welcome Yvette! Thank you so much. I’m very happy with it. I hope y’all will feel comfortable and make yourselves at home. So you think “Bob” eh? I can certainly see that. I think Bob is very fitting. We shall see what he thinks about it soon. Thanks for your input Yvette. See you soon! 🙂

      Reply
  4. Kassandra Lamb

    Sorry I’m so late to the party, Karen. I love, love, love that banner!! Indeed, the whole site looks fab. Isn’t Laird wonderful? She did both our misterio press site and my own site, and Shannon’s too.

    Percival came to my mind as I studied the pelican. I’ve got to agree with Kathy and with Pat, he does look like some rather critical professors I’ve had through the years. 😉
    Kassandra Lamb recently posted..Letting Go (Part 2)My Profile

    Reply
      1. Karen Post author

        Oh dear. Well, I will hang my head with you because I have no idea how to make that happen for you on my end Kassandra. I’m so sorry. I hope you’ll return and revisit the party! 🙂

        Reply
    1. Karen Post author

      No worries Kassandra. Great to see you! Thank you, yes, Laird is wonderful. This is the second theme she’s worked on for me. We make a good team, her and I. That is so funny. “Critical professor.” I guess it’s his rather regal stance or perch, as if he’s keeping watch. And I like the name Percival, Kassandra. Alarna mentioned Percy, which I do believe is the shortened form. Very cool idea. Thank you! 🙂

      Reply
  5. Alarna Rose Gray

    Karen! I love the new sunset beach theme you have going here – it is so warm and inviting! It is also lovely to see you back, and I hope your new space will live a long and prosperous life 🙂

    Pelicans are among my favourite birds. They frequent the beach and the skies where I live, so graceful. ‘Percy’ comes to mind for your fella. Percy the Pelican?
    Alarna Rose Gray recently posted..Känguru HopMy Profile

    Reply
    1. Karen Post author

      Hey there Alarna! Great to see you! So glad you popped in. And I love that you like my new space. Yes, may it live a long life. And may I thank you for your suggestion for our pelican. Wow, I really like Percy the Pelican!!! That is so awesome. I will be happy to add it to the list. Percy. Hmmm. 🙂

      Reply
    1. Karen Post author

      Hey Serena! I just knew you of all peeps would love the pelican. It’s just such a part of HB. Thank you so much girl! Great to see you! Take care! 🙂

      Reply
    1. Karen Post author

      Hi Alicia! It’s so awesome to see you. Wow, you and Rhonda like my ‘About’ page. Very cool. I thank you. And so does the pelican. Take care and say hi to Roy! ((Hugs!)) 🙂

      Reply
    1. Karen Post author

      Ginger, you think so? “Fresh, bright, clean. How cool is that? Thank you! Alfred, really? There are a few who would agree with you Ginger. That name is still in the running. I appreciate your input. It might just sway the decision. 🙂

      Reply
  6. K.B. Owen

    Love the new site, Karen! It has a very bright, airy, happy look. Even the pelican – even though he’s not “happy” he fits so well! He does look professorial…although more like a “Professor Grumpygills.” 😉

    Reply
    1. Karen Post author

      Hey K.B.! How are you Kathy? So glad you like the site. The pelican looks unhappy? Well, you were here early, so perhaps that’s why. I have it on good authority that he is not a morning pelican. He probably woke up on the wrong side of the pier this morning. I must apologize for his grumpiness. I can see why “Professor Grumpygills” might be fitting. Thank you for the suggestion. 🙂

      Reply
  7. prudencemacleod

    Great new site, Karen, but now I’m longing for a warm day and a quiet beach. hehehe Hope this new site brings you all the recognition and joy you deserve.

    Oh, and keep a hat on…darn pelican…
    prudencemacleod recently posted..RevitalizedMy Profile

    Reply
    1. Karen Post author

      Hi Pru! How are you? Ready to thaw out yet? If you hang around here long enough, the warm day and quiet beach might just do it. Thank you for your well wishes. They mean a lot coming from you. And I will heed the warning and buy a hat. Oh that darn Pelican! Watch out! 🙂

      Reply
  8. Debra Kristi

    The place looks great. It really captures the feel of what you write. It feels warm and cozy. I love it! Thanks for throwing the party. You’ve been missed, even if I’ve been out for a good part of it. I’ve been lurking now and again. I keep my eye on things. I’m so glad to see you here.

    So, the pelican, hmm. How about Oscar B. Goodgrammar. 😀 Hehehehe

    Reply
    1. Karen Post author

      Hi Debra! Thank you for saying that. I was hoping the visuals on the site would be a good enough representation of my voice. Awesome! It’s so great to see you too. Aha, I knew you were lurking. lol. But I know you’ve had your hands full, so I’m glad to see you in person! I like Oscar B. Goodgrammer. Very studious. We’ll see. Thanks for participating! Take care! 🙂

      Reply
    1. Karen Post author

      Hey there Debra! Thank you so much. I am trying to be more active on FB and Twitter. I enjoy supporting peeps like yourself. Glad you like the site and our Pelican. I think he’ll make a nice addition. I hope I can live up to your expectations girl. I’m still a work in progress. 🙂

      Reply
  9. Jennifer Jensen (@jenjensen2)

    Hey, there, Karen! I love the new site, especially the pictures, colors and font at the top. Congrats!
    I like your first idea for the pelican: Alfred. BUT . . . if you put spectacles on him, he’s totally Professor Finkelmyster – a character unto himself that you could have lots of fun with! So I guess I vote for the bespectacled prof.

    Reply
    1. Karen Post author

      Jennifer, how are you? It’s so great to see you! So glad you love my new digs. See, this is why I keep Laird around. Thank you so much! I can see that you are torn about the Pelican’s name. I feel like I am in good company. I can see that my decision will be more difficult that I had first thought. Now I’m really confused. Lol! Yet, I can see how that handsome bird would look quite handsome with spectacles. Great idea girl! Thank you so much! 🙂

      Reply
    1. Karen Post author

      So you like it Diane? How cool is that? I am so happy to have a new home, you have no idea. Thank you so much my friend! It is so good to be back! Take care and have a great week! And congrats to you! 🙂

      Reply
  10. Patricia

    I love the new site and welcome back to the blogsphere! Bigger and better!

    I think the pelican should be called Baxter. Actually my first thought was to call the pelican Brief. That way you could say, “that’s the pelican, Brief.” (Get it? Tee hee) But, then I thought that might be a bit too much nonsense. So go with Baxter.

    Patricia Rickrode
    w/a Jansen Scmidt
    Patricia recently posted..Girl Sports and Book GiveawaysMy Profile

    Reply
    1. Karen Post author

      Ha, ha, ha!!! Pelican “Brief”! Love it Patricia! Leave it to you. That Rocked! But Baxter is not a bad name either. Have you known many Pelicans with that name? Was there something in his look that told you “Baxter?” Very mysterious girl. We will have to see what happens. He is a picky bird, you know. Thanks for coming by and for participating! So glad to see you! 🙂

      Reply
    1. Karen Post author

      Hi Rhonda! Really? You like? Cool! That is so great to hear. Oh, thanks for the compliment. It isn’t easy to write an about page, as you well know. Although, yours came out fantastic girl! Thanks, as always, for all your support Rhonda! Take care! 🙂

      Reply
    1. Karen Post author

      Ooh, now that’s quite a name Shan. Sir Percival Bourroughs. I like it. I really do. But with a name like that, he must wear glasses, don’t you think? Interesting, your connection with animals. Not to worry. I won’t ask. So happy that you like everything. I was hoping that y’all would feel right at home. Or on vacation at the beach! Thanks Shan! 🙂

      Reply
    1. Karen Post author

      See. I thought Alfred fit him too. That’s to funny Coleen. And yes, I thought he was smiling too. But Pat thought he was giving her “the eye.” So I’m going to have to watch him. I seriously thought Pelicans could be trusted. I was mistaken. So glad you like everything and that you found it relaxing. That’s the mood I was after. Great! Thank you so much for your support and for you input Coleen. All I know is this bird will have an interesting name. 🙂

      Reply
    1. Karen Post author

      Yay, you made it Pirkko! So happy that you found the atmosphere relaxing. That’s what I was after! Thank you for all your efforts today. You shouldn’t have a problem anymore. So glad you came by. Thank you so much! See you soon! 🙂

      Reply
    1. Karen Post author

      So you think Stork, Julia? Now why would you like to add to my confusion? Have you seen all the names? Lol! See what I get myself into? So glad you like the site. I hope it felt warm and inviting. I’m happy to be back and to have a functioning theme! Take care Julia. Thank you as always for your support and for your input. Stork. Hmm. Ha, ha, ha! 🙂

      Reply
    1. Karen Post author

      Ha! Laird, you crack me up! Great job on the site by the way! Peeps are liking it. Thank you girl! Now, Perry K. Finkelmyster? Lol! Oh my goodness, this is fun! Can’t wait to see which name will stick. Take care of yourself girl! Big hugs to you! Thanks for coming by to see me. Give those kids a hug from me! 🙂

      Reply
    1. Karen Post author

      Hi Elizabeth! I am so happy that you like the colors. I find it real cozy. Hope that makes you comfortable. It was meant to. Feathers, eh? Very interesting name. Yes, he does indeed have plenty of feathers. That would fit him. Ha! This is going to be interesting. Thanks for stopping by and for you great idea! 🙂

      Reply
    1. Karen Post author

      Thank you very much Kristy! I’m glad you like it. So you think Professor Finkelmyster? Now, where in the world did you come up with that name girl? Lol! With a name like that I will have to put some spectacles on that bird. He would look rather studious wouldn’t he? Ha, ha, ha! Well, we will have to see what happens. Thanks girl for the lovely compliment and for your participation! As always, it was a joy to see you. 🙂

      Reply
  11. Pat O'Dea Rosen

    Your new site’s pretty, Karen! Well done!

    That pelican is giving me a critical look. I’d call him Red Pen.

    I’m so glad you’ve returned to the blogosphere. It wasn’t the same without you.
    Pat O’Dea Rosen recently posted..Heavy on My MindMy Profile

    Reply
    1. Karen Post author

      Hi Pat! How are you girlfriend? It’s so good to see you! Thanks. I’m glad you like the site, cause I like it. Lol. Now I cannot believe the Pelican gave you the eye. Say what? He’s misbehaving already? I am going to watch him. See, the minute I turn away, this is what happens. You can’t trust anybody, including Pelicans I can see. Red Pen seems to fit him in this instance. We’ll have to see how this plays out. And thank you as always for your support Pat. I’ve missed you!! 🙂

      Reply
    1. Karen Post author

      Thank you Amy! And yes it’s good to be back and at it again. Have a great week and thanks for the congrats! Good to see you! 🙂

      Reply
    1. Karen Post author

      Well, you beat everyone here Dale. Now did you help yourself to the bubbly? No need to scape your boots. We hang loose here. Actually, going barefoot in the sand is more like it. Aha! So you think Murphy? Interesting. Did you know that was my maiden name? That’s too funny. So that name has a soft spot in my heart. We’ll have to see how this turns out. Thanks for stopping by and for your contribution. 🙂

      Reply
        1. Karen Post author

          Please be careful Dale. I hear the Pelican, “Murph” (for now), is causing quite a stir and has been spotted hovering over the snacks. He has eyed Pat O’Dea Rosen already, so I would keep a watch on him. And no need to shut up. As you can see, we like a little chaos around here. Besides, this is a party! 🙂

          Reply

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