25 years ago I was voted 'Worst Bowler' at a party, so it was a genuine surprise when my first two rolls while chaperoning a 'teen' party over the holidays were full-strikes! Talk about beginners luck!!! No comment on how the rest of the game went, beyond to say - I haven't lost my touch from years past!
I have been sooo busy the last few days helping with Inventory and Display at the Castle that I haven't even given thought to 'New Years Intentions' yet. A list of sorts is percolating in my head. When reviewing my Last Years 'Dream' List I feel quite happy and content with how many of my wishes I followed through on. Although a few were completely forgotten - not good. I feel like some kind of 'visual' reminder may be in order. More on this later...
So now, I have a QUESTION for you, my readers! With the economy the way it is, I've been thinking of more ways to generate money in my life. A number of people, including my husband, have encouraged me to make my blog financially viable. Suggestions of placing ads, having sponsorships, tip or donation -jars, or subscriptions available have been discussed. I have been approached by a number of potential 'sponsors' who would like to link to my site, and pay me for the link. I've looked at a few possible ways to put general ads on my blog (things like google ads etc.) and truthfully don't really like how they look. Amazon book ads could be interesting... A 'tip-jar' feels a little like begging to me, I'm not on a street corner but its still a jar. Taking money for a subscription makes me feel like I should offer the subscribers more than they get from just the blog. I like this idea, but do not have the time right now to start a new project like this
What do you think?
How do you feel about blogs with ads and/or sponsors on them? Do they offend you, make you not want to visit? Do you notice them or become blind to them after a while? I know that if I were to take a financial path like this on my blog it would be VERY important WHO the sponsor or ad is from. They MUST be someone I would buy from and support. I also feel they should be someone who I think 'my readers' would like to see. (For this reason alone, google ads are too far-fetched for me) And the ad MUST be visually appealing - look good on my blog!
What about a tip-jar? Does that feel like begging to you? Does 'Donating' to a blog seem like something you might consider? Or is it offensive? And if you were to 'subscribe' to a blog would you feel like you deserved something over and above what the blog currently offers you?
Or perhaps the whole idea of 'making money from a blog' revolts you. I would love to hear what you think.
I have been blogging since September of 2005, and still love doing it! But I will admit to many many many hours spent searching and looking for goodies to post about - hours that could be spent on other 'money making ventures' as my dear husband reminds me of. Please let me know what you think, I value your opinions, as YOU MY READERS ARE TRULY WHAT KEEP ME BLOGGING!
