Thanks for your kind words. Thesis is definitely the way to go. Once you know where to find coding and ‘hooks’ shortcuts, customizing your page becomes fantastically easy.

One thing I forgot to mention is that Thesis now lets you upload a custom header image from your WordPress dashboard instead of having to upload files via FTP.

Cheers,
Joe

It’s cool to hear that you explore all options related to blog design, including multiple platforms including WordPress and TypePad. Both have their advantages for sure.

The bottom line is that whatever works for you is what you should pursue. Whether that’s hiring someone, learning code ‘one step at a time’ or simply choosing a template or platform that does most of the work for you. Good to know you had a hard time with the old soldier logo too, I felt it was just too shticky and got in the way of the info I wanted to share with like minded entrepreneurs.

Here’s to your new adventures in design and coding!

And I couldn’t agree more about the importance of a beautiful package.I’m so glad you’ve changed your look. I’ve always loved your information and writing style, but the look of your older version, with the soldier and camaflage? I had to force myself to look beyond it, which I almost never do. Usually if a blog doesn’t work for me visually, I never go back. Your new design is sooo much nicer.

I have to tell you though, that for my own blogs, I think I designed some that rock, and I made themt despite not knowing any coding at all, although I do have a design background so I know what looks good. Typepad is rather flexible and with enough trial and error, I figured out how to get what I want. Tumblr, too, has a lot of styles to chose from then tweak.

My next big ventures will be on Thesis, and BigCartel, and I will be needing to peek at those sites you mentioned.

So keep up the great work. I love your new look. Congrats. And please stop by my shop before I leave the block. Just come in and say hi and introduce yourself.