Adding the Google+ Badge Widget to your Blog

If you are a blogger, and haven't heard the news as of yet, Google is planning to rid of the Google Friend Connect Widget on non-Blogger Blogs in March 2012. I would suggest reading the complete post from the Official Google Blog for more details.

What does this mean? Well, for starters it means that you will have to use your reader and subscribe to blogs. Secondly, Google is urging more of it's users to join Google+ and use this relatively new Social Networking Site as a way to connect with other bloggers {with friends, family and other contributing members of society as well}.

My thoughts- I'm game. Why? Well, for starters that pesky GFC widget never worked correctly for me. However, I do like the fact that I can read all of my GFC blogs within my Blogger Dashboard regardless if they were WordPress, self-hosted or Blogger. I am sad to see that feature go. I am also hoping this post will reach some bloggers out there already "in the game" and all set for the change.

My biggest pet peeve about this new "blogger out reach program" is that a lot of new Google+ hops link directly to their Google+ page and not their personal blog. Why does this upset me? Personally, I like to see the blog that I am going to become a member of, and perhaps leave a comment. With the old school "GFC" blog hops, you also helped out another bloggers stats by visiting their page and following them from there. It is a great way to get to know the blogger, the blog and lend a helping hand on a more personal level and not always landing on a "wall" that may only tell me a little about the blogger.

What can I do about it then? I strongly suggest adding the Google+ Badge Widget to your Blog as you see here:

It is very simple to do and will only take a moment of your time.
1. Go to http://widgetsplus.com/ and create a badge according to their directions. Your Google+ ID is that number you will find in the link when you are on your profile in Google+.
2. Copy the code snippet and place it into the html editor on your blog. For Blogger Blogs, simply select the "HTML/Javascript Editor" from the "Add Gadget" selection where you would like to place your Google+ Badge from the "Layout" menu.

3. Save the widget and you are all set!

Aside, if you are a number-type of person, it tells your readers how many circles you belong to.To see how it works- simply ad me to one of your circles! Leave me a comment and I will return the love!

Please make sure to join me starting January 20, 2012 for a New Weekend Long Google+ Blog Hop hosted by yours truly. I am also looking for a few fellow bloggers who are interested in co-hosting this hop. Drop me an email if you are interested!

What are your thoughts about the new changes? If you are a non-Blogger blogger- how do you feel about Google omitting you from the GFC widget?

Oh, and a very Happy New Year! :-)

Windows Movie Maker Tutorial- Create a Photo Movie

I have created movies using Windows Movie Maker for numerous occasions: sporting events, 8th grade and preschool graduations as well as bridal showers and awards ceremonies. I have taught my 8th grade computer education students how to use this program as well.

Note: Windows Movie Maker is free and should be on your PC already. If it is not you can download it at Microsoft.com for FREE! 
This tutorial is from Windows Movie Maker XP. However, you can easily follow along using any version as there is not much of  a difference between them.

In this tutorial you will:

• Learn how to import and insert photos and music clips from your desktop into Windows Movie Maker.
• Create titles and credits.
• Use effects and transitions within your movie appropriately.

Please Note: You will need to be familiar with uploading digital images and music onto your computer before you begin this tutorial.

1. Open Windows Movie Maker by clicking Start -> All Programs -> Windows Movie Maker.

2. Get familiar with the different components of Windows Movie Maker by looking at the diagram below.

 3. Import photos by clicking File ->Import Media Items and select the folder in which you have your photos stored.

 

 You can also click the Import Media button provided in the top left corner or select it from the tasks pane.

4. You can select multiple photos by holding down the CTRL key and clicking on the images that you wish to use - or - hold down the CTRL and press A to select all and then click IMPORT.

Your photos are now displayed and are ready to be used.

5. Now for the easy part. Simply click and drag your photos into the Storyboard the way in which you want them to display in order. You can easily move these photos around as well- no worries!

6. Now is a good time to save your project. Go to File -> Save Project As -> select a name and location. Note: this is only saved as a "project" and NOT a completed movie!

7. Effects and transitions. This is when I would like to take a moment and explain that too much of a good thing is just that- too much!  Having transitions between each photo is okay, but carelessly inserting them is another. Same goes for effects. Creating a mood when using transitions and effects should be your ultimate goal when you create your movie.

8. Inserting effects: Click on "Effects" in the task pane on the left, a visual menu then appears.

9. Select the Effect you would like to use, using the drop and drag technique, drop the Effect right onto the chosen image.

10. Press PLAY in the Movie Control Panel and test it out.

11. Now is a good time to save. File -> Save Project. It will automatically save what you have completed. Side Note: get use to the "SAVE!" messages. As your project gets bigger, there is more room for freezing computers!

12. Add effects as you see fit. Remember not to overdo it. You can add more than 1 effect to an image. To remove the effect (if you change your mind), right click onto the Effect and click Remove Effects.

13. How to insert Transitions. Inserting Transitions is basically the same as inserting Effects, except you will drop and drag the Transitions into the box between images and not onto them.

14. Click Transitions under the menu task pane, a visual menu appears.

15. Add Transitions as you see fit. Remember not to overdo it.

16. Now is a good time to save. File -> Save Project. It will automatically save what you have completed. Oh, and you can test the movie whenever you want by clicking play on the movie control panel.

17. Adding Titles and Credits. In the tasks pane, click Titles and Credits. A new screen opens.

18. Type in the title of your choice. You can edit how the title looks by selecting either 'Edit the title animation' or 'Change the text font and color'.

 

Feel free to make adjustments to your title as you see fit. Click Add Title when satisfied.

19. The credits are done basically the same way. The difference? You now have separate columns in which you will enter your information. Go ahead! Click Titles and Credit from the tasks pane then select 'Credits at the end.' Input your information and click Add Title.

20. Save!

21. Adding Title Overlays. Want to add more of a personalized touch to your photo movie? Adding a title overlay can do just that. You can add dates, captions, or quotes to further personalize your movie. You can only add a Title Overlay's in Timeline view. So, first things first, switch from the "Storyboard" view to the "Timeline" view:

Timeline View

22.Click Titles and Credit from the tasks pane then select Title on selected clip.

23. Select the photo in which you would like to add the overlay of text. Please Note: you will see the image just before it in the movie viewer! Don't panic- it will be correct.

24. Just as you did with Titles and Credits, you can change the animation, color and font. Click Add Title once satisfied. You will then see your title on the Timeline.

25. Want to add the same title to multiple images? Click the right side of the "Title on selected clip" box that you inserted and drag it out as long as you wish.

 

26. Save!

27. Adding Audio or Music. For this tutorial we will learn how to insert music. In the tasks pane, under Import, select Audio or Music. Select the music file you would like to use for your photo movie. Please read U.S. Copyright Office to make certain that you are not violating any copyright laws. For this tutorial I used a snippet of the "Sample Music" that you receive on your PC. 

28. Your music file is now stored near your photos. To add it to the Timeline, simply drop and drag to the Audio?Music portion of the Timeline.

29. Save!

30. Just as you did with the 'Title on the selected clip', you can shorten or move your music file to where you want it in your photo move. You can also add multiple music clips!

31. Take this time now to make adjustments. Remember you are trying to convey a story and create a mood.

32. Now it's time for you to try some tricks on your own! 

• You can make the selected music fade in and out by right clicking and selecting the option from the popup menu.
• You can shorten or elongate the duration of your photos in your movie by clicking and dragging them in (shortening) or stretching it out (elongate).

33. Publishing your movie. You can publish your movie to your computer, DVD, Recordable CD, E-mail or Digital Video Camera. Click on the item you wish to publish to and follow the step-by-step directions. Note: each version provides you with simple step by step instructions on how to easily complete your movie!

Congratulations- you have completed a Photo Movie using Windows Movie Maker!

How to Install Computer Memory- A Guide for Women!

When I taught computers to children, each year had its own theme. The fifth grade year was all about the Personal Computer. One of my favorite topics in that fifth grade year was dissecting the computer's hardware. Oh yeah- my students absolutely loved seeing the inside of the CPU, mouse and keyboard (no monitors due to Mercury). We would pull apart an entire donated computer, name its parts and try (if parts didn't break in the process) to put it back together again. It was so much cooler than dissecting a frog (well, at least I think so!)

With the right know-how, changing your computer's memory (RAM) is as easy as 1....2.....3! I taught my fifth graders how easy it was to take memory modules in and out. I am confident that you can do it too.

Questions before we begin? I never thought you'd ask!

What is Computer Memory (RAM) exactly?  Computer memory, or RAM (Random Access Memory), is memory that is used to "fire up" and use programs on your computer. Once you turn off your computer, RAM erases its memory and you need to start anew. Think of it this way- you turn on your computer (ROM, another topic for another day) and open up Internet Explorer (RAM) to check your e-mail. You then decide to play a game of Solitaire (RAM). In both cases RAM Memory is being used. Finally, you had enough and shut down your computer. Later that day you turn your computer back on and it loads to its original state- no Internet Explorer and no Solitaire is open. That's how RAM rolls ;-)

Where do you buy computer Memory Modules (RAM)? I personally purchased my Computer Memory on Amazon.com. However, you can go to a local or other online computer parts retailer and get it from there.

What type of memory do I need? Whether you purchase memory from a local retailer, or you chose to purchase online, you will need to know what type of computer you are buying RAM (memory module) for. Simply refer to your computers manual or conduct a search using the name of your computer + computer memory if the manual is lost(which is what I had to do). It's really simple, so don't panic. You want to make 100% certain you are purchasing the correct memory- there are different types for different kinds of computers. Some require a SIMM others are a DIMM card.

What does memory exactly do? Read this interesting article from How Stuff Works. It is very well written. In short, adding computer memory (or RAM) is a quick and cheap way to make your computer work faster.

Now let's get to it. Make sure you turn off and unplug your computer before we begin! Also make sure you are grounded by removing all of your static electricity that your body has stored up!

1. Open up your CPU.  It is pretty simple to do. My computer's CPU case had screws that held the opening panel to the rest of the case. Don't be afraid, as it pops off quite easily. Refer to your computer's user manual for further instructions.

2. Locate your computer’s Memory slots. Can you find it in this photo?

Inside your Computer's CPU Case:

No? Not a problem. Take a look at the photo below; they look like long, straight slots with clips on either end. There may be several depending on the type of computer that you have.

3. Install the SIMM or DIMM computer memory by sliding it into the open slot by opening the brackets on either side. Hint: A SIMM card you have to hold on an angel, while a DIMM you slide in straight forward. (DIMM is shown and most used). Both will lock into place using the retaining brackets. Do not force them in, change to another slot if needed or turn the card around and try again. I must admit, I always have to do that. Oh- and only handle the memory modules on the sides and not on the chips themselves!

If needed you can remove old Memory Modules and you can add as many as you wish. When the memory is in, close your computer back up, put back together and turn it on and give it a test. Most updated computers will automatically locate the memory (RAM) that you installed. If not, refer to your computer's user manual to make certain that it is functioning properly.

Good Luck!

Now only if I can install Memory into my husband's brain............................

Top Ten Tuesdays- Guide to Web Design

Designing your own site on the Web can be a time taking, yet rewarding endeavor. What separates the "beauties" from the "beasts" (in terms of Web design) can be an even more complicated discussion. What makes some Web sites great, while others lag is all about the implementation of content mixed with a great user-friendly design.

Here are my Top Ten Suggestions for Web design:

In terms of Design...........

10. Contrast. Keep the Design simple, keeping contrast in mind. Why are so many sites on the Internet white with black text? Simple- it is easy on the user’s eyes and therefore it is easier to read. Go ahead and use colored backgrounds, just keep in mind that you use dark text for light backgrounds and light text for dark backgrounds.

9. Images. Large graphic files or images that do not relate to the topic should be avoided. Sure, you may have some sort of high speed Internet- but does your best viewer? Keep all of your image FILE size small by using a photo editing software, JPEG in format (use GIFF for text images), and relevant to your topic. If you need to have a larger photo (for example: to show detail in something you have created) have it as a separate Web page and have the user "click image for a larger view." This will enable your site to load faster.

8. Repetition. Keep your site to one-two font styles and size, keep your background consistent from page to page, and carry some page elements (such as type of bullet you use) throughout your entire Web site. I have seen some Websites that have a different background color for each page. I often questioned myself if I was on the original site while navigating through it.

7. Spacing. Take advantage of white space- use it to space out paragraphs, between images, etc. to make viewing your site easier on your user’s eyes.

In regards to making it user friendly.............

6. Text. Make the text of your Web site for the computer and not for print (such as a newspaper or book). Keep your paragraphs short and make your font style computer screen friendly. I suggest an Arial font and staying away from fancy text that is hard to read. Note: It's okay to have some fancy text, such as your sites title, but don't use it for your entire content.

5. Click-able Links. Make links change color so the user can tell what they have previously clicked on and do not underline non-linking words as it may confuse the reader. In fact, it is often better to have links three colors: One color to let the users know that the selected text is an active link; the second color for when they hover over the link; and a third for the visited link. Make sure to check your links periodically to make certain they are still working!

4. Navigation. How do you keep your readers engaged in your site is highly determined by how easy it is for them to navigate around your site. Make sure all menus are clearly labeled and sidebars are neat. Helpful Hint: By nature we read everything from left to right. Have your most important information in the top left (i.e. the name of your site) and then so on and so forth.

In terms of content............ 

3. Goals and Objectives. BEFORE you begin your site, set out some simple goals and objectives you would like to accomplish by a particular date. What type of content will you cover, how will you market your site, and where do you see your site 6 months or even one year or more from now? This keeps you focused and organized. Update your goals and objectives accordingly.

2. Search-ability. You have a great idea. Your content is well written, is organized and presented neatly. Then why are you not getting the response that you want and/or deserve? Think about the titles of your Web pages (and/or blog posts) as well as your tags and Meta tags. Instead of naming a blog post, for example, "I am Going to Pull My Hair Out!" think what your post is about. "3 Year Old Temper Tantrum Crisis" may result in more hits via search engines. I laugh because when I began this blog I did a comic post about Inafitits. As of today, I am #1 in the Google Search for the term "Infatitis" (which is a condition that doesn't exist). Check out my Google search here.

1. Contact Information. Make your contact information easily accessible- if that is your goal to be contacted. Have it on the bottom or on a side bar of every page of your site, instead of having your viewer try to search for it. Having a "Contact Me" tab is wonderful, however it is just as easy to have it on the bottom of every page.


I have been creating Web sites for years and have found these tips to be the most beneficial. Of course there are several more that didn't make the cut on my top 10, (such as don't plagiarize and keep animation (Flash of or GIFF) to a minimum) but I firmly believe that these 10 will lead you in the right direction building a stronger Web site (and/or blog).

 

Technology Tutorial- Adding an Email Me Button to your Blog

Free Email Buttons!

Disclosure: All of the above buttons were illustrated and created by me FREE for you to use! Please do not sell or re-distribute without my consent. As always, you can refer back to this post at www.classifiedmom.com Thank you & enjoy!

Want a PR Firm, a potential advertiser, or a fellow reader to be able to get a hold of you without exposing your email box to spam? Creating an email button can do just the thing!

What to do:

1. Select an email button  from above (or another site, designer or your own creation) and save it to an online photo hosting site such as Photobucket or Image Shack . 
2. In Blogger, go to "Design" and click "Add a Gadget".

Add caption

 3. Select the "Add HTML/JavaScript" from the menu.
4. DO NOT add a title, just the following code:
<div align="center"> <a href="mailto:Youremailaddress@example.com">
<img alt="Classified: Mom" src="http://your_photo_hosting_here.com/image_name.png"/></a></div> 
5. Click Save.
6. View your blog and click to see if it works! You may have a program like "Outlook Express" open up if that is your default email client. 

Please note: You need to change the highlighted text to your email address and photo hosting URL. You can also use this in Websites and other Blog services using the exact same code!

Let me know if you have any questions! You can always email me ;-) 

Technology Tutorial- Free Background for Bloggers

Free Backgrounds

Feel free to use the above backgrounds in your blog. Need to know how? Keep on reading! Directions are for Blogger.

The gradients above are all made with two colors (except for 1rainbowlove#182381.jpg). They were given cute little names followed by a number. This number indicates the bottom color. For the gradient to look "correct" when you scroll down the page, you first have to set the background to that color. (Note: if a color was not listed it is white #FFFFFF). The first 5 backgrounds were made to be repeated or "tiled" as your background. Right click--> Save Image As --> and chose a location on your computer.

Assuming that you have a template selected (we are only changing a background here), go to the Background Tab under Template Designer and select Browse.

 

Select your image file. If you chose one of the first 5 images that were meant to be "tiled", change the alignment to "center-top" and click the drop down menu to tile. Unselect the "scroll with page" box so the background stays static.

If you like the gradient background, the first thing you need to do is to change the main background color of your blog to the color code that was included at the end of the name of the image. Remember if a color code was not mentioned the code is #FFFFFF for white. For this example I used the image midnightmist#D8C0CD.jpg.
Go to the Advanced Tab under Template Designer and select Background. Change the name of the outer background to the "code" at the end of the name. For example, I would change mine to #D8C0CD.

Then go back to the "Background" tab and browse for your image. Adjust it to "Center-top" alignment and select "tiled" horizontally. Unselect "scroll with page."

You are then all set- enjoy!