Where do I begin?  I am still a newby blogger, getting my bearings and trying to create a blog that people will see as a representation of what I like and who I am.  For weeks, I have noticed all the lovely blog buttons people have up with the heading,"Grab my button".  I was intrigued but had no idea how to incorporate the buttons into my blog without overwhelming the site with too many graphics.

So I took a long look at some other blogs I admire.  I saw a cool looking "blog roll" on The Innocent Smiley blog and took a chance.  I wrote to Val, the blogger, and asked her how she did this?  I thought maybe she found a widget and she could direct me where to find one.

Well, may I say that VAL IS A ROCKSTAR!  Not only did she answer me back, but gave me a super detailed explanation of the code, what to look out for, and sample code.  She could not have been more gracious and kind.

Making my own button has been more of a challenge.  First I needed to make a button that gave a feel for my site.  Thankfully my daughter is a wonderful artist (she designed the cat at the top right corner of my blog) and designed a great button.  Next, I needed to create a side bar post that would have the button and a grab code.  This is where things got sticky.

I am NOT a computer person!  I run, screaming, when I see code that I am supposed to manipulate into something useful.  Again, I am so glad for the help of others.  The webiste GEEKALICIOUS  was instrumental in explaining the code needed.  I also had the help of my Husband, Jeff (who just happens to be a programmer) to fine-tune everything so it would work.

The results:  two cool features on the right side of my blog!   So grab the PONDERING THE PROSE Button please!  When you are done, check out some of the other blogs I follow on my super cool Blog Roll!