How did you decide on the site name, Middle-earth? Why did you pick something so common? Why didn't you choose something more original?
Though some may beg to differ, "Middle-earth" was not very common at all when I started my site. In fact, I even ran several searches to see. I couldn't find any. Of course, now, there are several. But I don't want to change the name now, as it is well known.
Yes, I could have chosen something more original. But, I wanted a name that would say everything and be easily remembered. Many fansites have strange elvish names that no one can pronounce, but everyone remembers "Middle-earth." My site is not about a specific character or story, it's about all. Middle-earth is the world of Tolkien. My goal is to make this site a Tolkien world online!
 
Why is Frodo your favorite character?
I just relate to the character and see his sides of things. People say I'm like Frodo in many ways. Maybe that is why. He's a hero.

How do you make your animated avatars, buttons, etc.?
I make each frame using Photoshop then I use Gifbuilder to animate them. Gifbuilder is a free Macintosh program.
 
How do you get so much traffic?
I don't get that much actually, not compared to other sites. I have to thank Arwen-undomiel.com for a lot of tips though. I asked her the same question and she gave me a list of ways which have definently helped. Thank you Arwen!

I've listed some ways below-
Affiliate with related sites, join topsites, tell friends (on forums and in person), submit to link directories and webrings, be friendly, update often, start a forum to add to your community, have accurate info, add interactivity, nominate for awards, let visitors contribute, and just get your name and link out there!