More thoughts on Website & SEO...

To continue with those thoughts on website and search engine optimization: I have been doing a lot of "homework" (I suppose it could aptly be called that - I am reading, re-reading, and reading some more, as well as taking notes, after all!), researching those sites and sources that have been recommended to me. I have found a lot of good info, very good info and absolutely great info at some of these... My brother, who is also one that is a really talented researcher, sent to me some really good links - from which I have been able to gain the most usable tools and resources. So, with those "tools", I continue on with the "tweaking" and fiddling around with my SweetPea & Violets site, adding this, deleting that... It is so much work - but, I think I like where I am heading with it. I have added a bit of new product, new content and services, and I have begun affiliate marketing from the site - which I have been told is "the" way to make money with a website. We'll see. It is all a lot to assimilate, both into my brain as well as the website. I persevere.
Among those links that my brother passed on to me was one in particular that I was so greatful to have come across: Steve Pavlina's Personal Development for Smart People... My goodness, this is the best informational blog/website! He writes a lot, offers a lot of tips and advice, and just pretty much shares all he knows with the goal of helping people better themselves. I really, really was so glad to have come across his website and blog. You'll find links to all of his archived blogs, plus links to other self-help oriented sites and products.
Another good site is ProBlogger.net where Darren Rowse tells you everything you need or want to know on how to make money with your blog... Imagine that. Here I am struggling to make money from my (retail) website, and there are those that are making a living from their blogs! He also offers links to archived blogs and other tools and resources. In any case, they are both really helpful, resourceful sites; I mean it. I was quite taken-aback by the possibilities of all that can be accomplished with just a little bit of creativity.
To that creative end, as I mentioned above, I have added a few new items to SweetPea & Violets. To complement the addition of more (hopefully decent) content, I now offer a select variety of aromatherapy books! I'll be adding more on herbs and other facets of aromatherapy practice, but for now, I think it a good beginning. I am working on the addition of more variety of essential oils (as well as a page devoted solely to that product) and aromatherapy tools such as aroma lamps and diffusers.
As far as money-making - one of the affiliate ventures I am working on promoting is SFI. Some might say "Oh, not another one...", but, you know, I am actually seeing a bit of turn-around with this one. I'm seeing a response to my ads, and I actually received my first commission check! That was a thrilling moment, no kidding! It is taking a bit of time and work effort, I will be honest about that, but, I can see it beginning to grow (especially this month!) and the potential is making itself known. With no commitments or cost to look, it can't hurt to check it out.
I have continued with the other community sites, having a bit of fun and "meeting" new friends. At SweetPea & Violets' MySpace, I found two old "friends" - those I knew from The Blissful Soul - That Yarn Store (a real-live yarn shop located in Eagle Rock, CA) and Aurah - an awesome band that actually played live at The Blissful Soul. Visit me at MySpace and see for yourself. Another friend I have made is Beau Moreau. Another musician, really cool music. I've added a banner - a direct link to his music and site.
I'm still in the running over at StartUp Nation btw... I've no illusions of winning, mind you, but it's still nice to get your votes! So, vote for SweetPea & Violets, yes? Thanks...
'Til next time...