1. Text that runs over a border If you use a "bordered background...it is extremely difficult - if not downright impossible - to read text that spills over a border. Almost all of the sites that offer the bordered backgrounds also offer the "html codes" to go with them in order to prevent this unhappy occurence. It's simply a matter of "copy & paste" the code onto your page. If I can't read your page, how am I to know what your message may be?
2. On that same note, text that is placed on a very "busy" background is nearly impossible to read. Consider using a "table" with a nicely co-ordinated solid background color against your "busy" background.... or consider using a more subtle or "muted" background.
Graphics are fun and nobody likes them any more than I do... but don't overload your page This can greatly increase the "loading time" of your page and most people haven't the patience for it.
Please don't "over-do" the "animations" and "special effects". While these can enhance your page and add special interest... if "overworked"... they become very "distracting". Too many things jumping all over your page can actually become "irritating".
3. Sound is a wonderful addition, as long as it isn't so loud it rattles the dishes in my cupboards! To my way of thinking, "background music" is meant to be just that..."in the background" and not an "ear-shattering" - "bone-rattling-experience".
You can solve this problem by "lowering the volume" on your midi before you upload it.
4. Pages that open with all "links" and/or pages of "webrings" with no apparent link to your page sends me right off to another site. I don't find it particularly "friendly" to be met at your "front door" with a "list of commercials". I came to see you!
I'm really not a "grump" or a "grouch". (smile) All of these are just "common-sense" considerations for your "guests". Your page should have few, if any, dead or broken links and be relatively easy to navigate. Please use a dictionary if you're not sure how to "spell" a word. We all make an occasional "typo", myself included... but that should be the "exception" and not the "rule".
And finally...I do not require that you sign my Guestbook in order to earn an Award! I consider signing a Guestbook an act of "thoughtfulness" and don't believe one should be "baited", "strong-armed" or "coerced" into it. For that reason... a simple "e-mail" to me with your url... the name of your site... your name...and an "invitation" to visit will get the job done! (smile)
However, if you'd like to sign my Guestbook... I'd be thrilled, but it's not a requirement.
Good thoughts to you.....
Whisper
