oh so pretty {Katie Daisy}

***If you are reading on Google Reader or a similar RSS feed, click over the the actual blog today to see the new look***

Welcome to the new and beautiful Under the Sycamore! Did it make you smile when you saw it? Makes me smile! The gorgeous artwork is by the talented Katie Daisy.  I went out on a limb to ask her about a custom blog design. I was sure she’d turn me down (if you follow her on facebook, you know she is super talented and busy). To my surprise and delight she was all for it! When I first started talking to her about a new blog design, this is how I described the look I wanted…“Fresh, peaceful, vibrant….like the feeling you get when you open the windows for the first warm day of spring after a long cold winter!” Pretty sure she nailed it. I am so, so, so happy with all that she created. Just to make sure you all understand…the artwork was hand painted then turned digital. Such talent.

Okay, so that picture really doesn’t have anything to do with this post, I just wanted to see a pic with the new layout!

Now, here are some changes to check out:

On the Home Page you can find a links to a favorites post page, a diy page, a photo tips page, a FAQ page, and links to my pinterest & facebook accounts. The FAQ page doesn’t have a big button, but for those new to the blog it has a lot of basic intro information.

Here are a few peeks at the pages…go click on them up above to really see it all:

Favorite Posts Page

DIY page

Photo tips page

Our adoption process

The footer area now contains the Search box, Archives, Post Categories and a list of recent posts.

Other changes on the sidebar:

• I’ve joined the BlogHer network. I know the graphic with motion will take a bit getting used to, but I am thrilled to be a part of a publishing network of women online.
• For the month of December I am using my sidebar to promote non-profits and shops that benefit adoptions or social causes. I’ll be introducing these organizations/shops soon.
• Supporting small & handmade businesses is an important part of my blog. In January, I will return to having my traditional sponsors. New rates and information for those limited number of spots will be available soon.

So there you go….please look around at all the new stuff and let me know what you think.

And, last but certainly not least, here are some links to Katie Daisy’s sites. If you like all she did on my blog, please go leave her some sweet encouragement on her facebook or blog. I am just giddy with how the changes turned out.

Katie Daisy: Website, Blog, Facebook, Etsy, Flickr, Pinterest

Thank you, thank you, thank you Katie!