Brrrr...

Hey, guys! Sorry it has been a while since my last update. Although it is getting pretty chilly outside, things have been heating up at CJ Architects (don't forget to check out that blog as well!). Although that is a really good thing, it has hindered my available time for blogging.

If you didn't already know, I moved the operation of my little company into my 2nd bedroom at home. Don't worry - there is still a couch and room for an inflatable mattress for whomever wants to come visit! I made this leap because at the time business was really slow and I was paying rent in an office that I was afraid I was going to be unable to afford if business didn't pick up. I bought a nice new printer and set up shop here at the homestead. I would say that the only problem is that we have radiator heat and its an old uninsulated building, so it gets mighty chilly during the weekdays. They runt he boilers more at night when everyone is at home - so they aren't accounting for the work-at-home crowd, the retired older ladies across the hall and downstairs, or the annoyingly noisy people upstairs who seem to rearrange their furniture on a daily basis. But with the freedom and flexibility I have afforded myself, I really have no complaints.

So in case you're wondering, I basically have 3 clients right now. Hmmm, "why are you so busy, Chris?" you may be asking... good question! One client is my old boss who throws me drafting work from time to time - bread and butter, baby. Another client is a contractor who is building an addition in Wilmette (an affluent North Suburb) and needed an architectural design. That has been going well, the homeowners are happy, and the finished product will most likely be a portfolio piece for me. My third client is my most lucrative. I responded to an online ad for a busy general contractor who needed an architect - not a staff position, but a go-to guy. Well, as it turns out, they are very busy and "go-to" me quite often. We currently have 6 projects together all at different stages - 3 additions and 3 renovations, all residential. it is really good work and I have been fun designing, managing, and drafting - you know, architecture! they pay well and fast and I can only hope that this one-month-plus relationship only continues for awhile to help me sustain financially while I attempt to grow my business.

That really is all that has been going on, to speak of. Anything else that is minor I update on my facebook status. I had a great Thanksgiving and was happy to see friends and family while I was in town. It was a good time with Kristen's family too. Now we're looking ahead to Christmas... we will be coming in on the 25th and leaving the 27th. It's a rather quick stop again, but we hope to see as many friends and family as we can in that short time.

Well I guess that's about it... I haven't forgotten about my blog community and I will try to be better with the updates. I'd say after the New Year I might get back on track.