Redesigning my own blog has not only saved me money, but taught me valuable skills. The learning curve can be steep, but once you have the know-how, you can play around all you want! I would say my blog has undergone three major redesign changes since I have been writing it. 

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Lot said ...
Isn't re-designing your blog the most fun thing about blogging? I love how it's as artistically rewarding as baking or painting, yet without any of the annoying clearing up afterwards :)

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I recently started attending to events that PR agencies have put together for local bloggers.  It's been great.  I hope in 2012 to spearhead some events too!

Caroline

I have never attended a blogging event or conference, but I think it would be a lot of fun. The closest location for me to attend would most likely be Denver. It sounds like a great resolution!

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Caroline said ...
I recently started attending to events that PR agencies have put together for local bloggers.  It's been great.  I hope in 2012 to spearhead some events too!

”

Burger King hosted one this past spring where bloggers were invited to visit BK (the closed the restaurant for the event) and try a new menu item they were highlighting. From there they provided us with tickets to see HOP at a local theater.  All the blogger (6 or so) and their families had a blast at BK and the movies! At the end of the end, the blogger got a great family day full of fun, food and entertainment, plus a BK gift card to use on a future visit, while the company (thanks to the PR agency) got publicity through non-mandated blog posts that the bloggers did.

Here's the post I did about the event: http://smartypantsmama.com/2011/04/smart-food-burger-king-chicken-tenders-hop-a-great-lunch-movie-event/

Caroline

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Lot said ...
what happens at these gatherings?

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That it such a cool idea! Do you stay in touch with any of the other bloggers you met there?

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Caroline said ...
Burger King hosted one this past spring where bloggers were invited to visit BK (the closed the restaurant for the event) and try a new menu item they were highlighting. From there they provided us with tickets to see HOP at a local theater.  All the blogger (6 or so) and their families had a blast at BK and the movies! At the end of the end, the blogger got a great family day full of fun, food and entertainment, plus a BK gift card to use on a future visit, while the company (thanks to the PR agency) got publicity through non-mandated blog posts that the bloggers did.

”

Yes, I've made some great connections and friendships from bloggers me at that event and others!  It's awesome! I've also attended 2 conferences - BlogHer10 and Blogalicious10.  I hope to attend 2 this year that are local, and really hope to figure out a way to get to BlogHer since it's in NY again.

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Kara said ...
That it such a cool idea! Do you stay in touch with any of the other bloggers you met there?

”

What types of events happen at blog conferences? I have always been intrigued by any blogging event but haven't really researched them. 

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Caroline said ...
Yes, I've made some great connections and friendships from bloggers me at that event and others!  It's awesome! I've also attended 2 conferences - BlogHer10 and Blogalicious10.  I hope to attend 2 this year that are local, and really hope to figure out a way to get to BlogHer since it's in NY again.

”

I've only been to 2 so my experience is a bit limited.  But, what I do know is that provides the blogger with the fantastic ability to network with other bloggers.  It's so great to actually meet someone who understands what it is that you do.  Ask 1/2 my friends what I do and they'll stutter something about she's on the computer and writes stuff.  Additionally, the conferences also provide great sessions where you can learn from the best.  Great question and answer session with some pros too! 

Ok, you really have me wanting to sign up for a conference...NOW!

Smiles,
Caroline

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Kara said ...
What types of events happen at blog conferences? I have always been intrigued by any blogging event but haven't really researched them. 

”

Just a simple resolution:

- BE A DEDICATED BLOGGER!

I stopped blogging since 2009 [I wish I never did], because I was too busy with studies and work. But this year, I will start blogging again, and try to update my blog as often as I can.