Friday, July 22

The week has come to an end and today my list of things to do is decreasing in size.  The plan for today is to finish converting the last spec sheets.  I also have on my list of things to do, to print out flyers for the farmers market for we are really trying to promote our newest and up and coming development Cobblestone Commons.  We have found the farmers market to be a very successful place to do it, for it is conveniently located near our neighborhoods and is very easy to give them directions to check them out following their visit.  The other task I plan on completing is an inventory of our flooring and backsplash samples.  We are looking to have two full sets of both our large and small samples.  After the inventory is complete I need to follow up with our ICC vendor to retrieve any missing pieces.  Overall the day should not be very hectic.

Today also marks the completion of my 400 hour internship. I do however plan on staying for about three more weeks for this will finalize as my summer job.  I have loved every minute of my experience and even am considering seeing if there would be a place for me to come back as a starting point in my career paths.  We all have to start somewhere!  They have been so awesome and I just love the office family I have become apart of.  They are so accepting and I just feel truly blessed to have had the opportunity to work with such great people.  Everyone is so down to earth and they have reassured me that this is what I want to do and that I do like the residential aspects of building and design.  I could not have asked for a better opportunity and I have even picked up a few skills and even networking along the way.  I hope everyone was able to get something out of their experience!

Thursday, July 21

On Thursday, I simply spent the entire day transferring over our current job specs onto the new template that was created for Blackwell Park.  In the middle of the day I did have a break however, and it was then that I took some people through our model home.  They were very impressed.  Once this was complete I went back to the office to continue my work.

Wednesday, July 20

On Wednesday, I came into the office to take pictures of some brick samples. These pictures I then uploaded to the computer to be placed into our brick selections sheet.  This finalized our brick brochure for prior we simply had blank boxes that informed the clients that if interested they could view the sample here at the office.  The reason it was done this way was the vendor provided us with a website that had the brick images and there were two styles that for some reason were not offered so we had to improvise.  Once this was done I took the time to convert our take one brochure into Illustrator.  My boss then asked me while he was away to take the time to develop some new designs for the take one brochure.  I did simply as he asked and created 2 alternative designs to be reviewed once he gets back.  I think one ultimately stands out to me and is just the refresher that it needed.  I adapted it to have more images and less wording.  I feel pictures say so much more as we are taught in the classroom.  So much text is just boring and people don't want to take the time to read it.  Overall everyone in the office likes the new adapted version and so hopefully I can leave a mark behind additionally to the selections binders, and feel like I really contributed to the marketing needs of the business.  I feel that this would be something great to also add to my portfolio.  All in all the week is halfway through and I continue making progress on my list everyday.

Tuesday, July 19

On Tuesday, July 19, it was just another day in the office.  I picked up right where I left off with the binders.  They still needed to be organized by tab and placed in sheet protectors.  Once this was complete I developed a new template in illustrator to host our under construction take ones for home sites.  When this was done I actually created a brochure for a current job.  I took their exterior facade elevation AutoCAD drawing and also their plans and inserted them to finalize a take one to be placed out in front of the job site.  When this was complete the day was coming to an end.  I quickly took time to clean up our hard drive folders for when something is updated we place the current date at the end and discard the old one into an archive folder.  So I simply went through and made sure that only the most current documents were visible.  This makes the process of keeping organized so much easier.  It also helps everyone to stay on the same page and have accurate documents to access when questions arise.

Week 10 at Heartwood Custom Homes

Monday, July 18

On Monday, July 18, I walked in to an empty office.  For the next two weeks my boss will be out on a family vacation and left the rest of us to manage.  Also his partner in Old Town Design Group is on vacation this week so it really leaves us trying to manage in an adequate manner.  I walk into an empty office though for the secretary, and AutoCAD specialist managed the farmers market and model so they both took the day off.  This left me and the other intern here to complete tasks in which we were given to do while away.  So it was very quiet but left much time to complete projects without being interrupted as usual.  The first thing on my list was to finish developing the selection binders for the 4 new customers in which we plan to begin digging in the near future.  Once these were complete I received a phone call from my boss asking if I could follow up with some clients and vendors in regards to plans and information.  The rest of my day was then spent printing out marketing material to duplicate selection binders that host architectural features of past homes constructed. The binder includes fireplaces, built-ins, niches, and columns.  This was a long process for all images were in color and the binder is rather thick.  Overall I feel like I made a good start to my list of things to do.

Friday, July 15

On Friday, July 15, I began the day by emailing to the vendors both the specs and plans for all current projects. This is so they can taking care of necessary tasks on their side for each.  I then took time to print out all up to date plans and specs for my boss to take on his trip in case any questions came up while he was out.  He also had me place all of these into a folder on his laptop in which he planned to take as well.  I continued following up with businesses for the invoices in which we were still missing.  I then about mid day met with my boss so that he could give me a list of tasks to complete while he is away.  The list seems very manageable.  Once I was given the tasks, I jumped right in and began developing more of the selection binders for our upcoming clients.  The day ended by doing a bit of housekeeping before he was out the door for two weeks.  Overall the week stayed busy for it is important to be sure everything is set before leaving on a long trip especially when it is a personal business.  The next couple of weeks will be more quiet but I have plenty of things to work on.

Thursday, July 14

On July 14, I started the day following up with the vendors and businesses in which we were missing invoices from. I then updated the construction schedule to the most current, to then email out to all vendors so that while my boss is out they knew where each project stands. Once this was done I reviewed our websites both the Heartwood Homes and Blackwell Park to come up with new ideas to propose, for they want to refresh and revamp them.  I then helped Justin my boss's business partner for Old Town Design Group assemble legal documents.  The document consisted of a letter and a plat map to be sent out to 35 residence around an area in which we plan to build.  This apparently is required by the city and if we don't take the time to do it we can get fined and be in a lot of trouble.  My day ended by taking the invoices I received throughout the day and inserting them into place in the binder.  The day seemed to go by quickly.

Wednesday, July 13

On Wednesday, I started the day by continuing to go through the paperwork to verify bills in which we had an did not have.  I completed the list but had a number of bills in which I was missing.  I also took the time to not only organize the binder by tab but also by page in which it was listed on the document I was using to verify with.  I then took time to again update documents for my boss and his family are leaving for a vacation and will be out two weeks so he wanted to make sure everything in our system was up to date.  After I met with Wendy, or interior designer to review the order sheets in which she will be using to order materials and products from once client selects them from their binder.  She simply had me making a few edits so that the form was simple and to the point for both her and the vendors to understand. We also reviewed the selections binder again to see if any major edits were necessary.  There only remain a few so in the next couple of weeks while they are gone I will make the changes and update the client binders.  Overall while their vacation is nearing things still remain calm but just busy getting final pieces together.

Tuesday, July 12

On Tuesday, July 12, I started my day by simply updating paperwork from schedules to specs to checklists.  This is often done for we like to keep our paperwork as up to date as possible.  The rest of my day was spent composing the bills binder which was broken down into various tabs.  Once the pages were divided I was printed off a chart that I was to go through and highlight whether or not we had the bill.  For the ones I did not have I simply made a note to later go back and follow up on.  The day ended with the binder still yet to be complete.  I was informed at the beginning that this would take time and that I needed to take my time in order to know that everything was done correctly.

Week 9 at Heartwood Custom Homes

Monday, July 11

On Monday, I started the day by updating spec sheets.  The changes made were simply new information providing details about the clients various selections.  After this was complete I printed out updated floor plans in order to verify we were on the same page as some of our new clients and also to be sure that things would be constructed right the first time.  Then I took time to edit the trim brochure.  In order to complete this brochure I had to use both Photoshop and Illustrator because I had to edit the images before placing them in the formatted pages developed in Illustrator.  Once the trim brochure was finalized I emailed out a spec sheet to receive bids for the clients contract.  Every project done here at Heartwood has a bids process in order to get the best price for the materials and products being used.  The day ended by me being assigned a very tedious task of copying all the current bills we have on hand for the big Mervis remodel project we worked on, to then have an organized bills binder created.

Friday, July 8

On Friday, July 8, I took time to print all of the brochures that were in tact and placed then into the binders.  I left spaces for the incomplete brochures for this project will be ongoing until we can get a few more pictures and also get the brochures assembled.  I also took time to file some paperwork into their proper job binders.  I then gathered the interior trim info we received and I began composing a brochure to be placed into our selections binder.  My day was coming to an end and I took on printing up flyers for the Parade of Homes to advertise for both our Blackwell Park development and Cobblestone Commons.  Lastly, I followed up with a few questions I had received in regards to the schedules.  My week has come to an end and I just feel like home working here.  We seem like a small family and we seem to accomplish alot when we work as a team.  I hope that in the future and can find something very similar.

Thursday, July 7

On Thursday, July 7, I took time to update or current project specification sheets.  I was then sent out to take exterior pictures of past home projects that will be included in the design binders I purchased yesterday.  Once this was complete I returned to the office and sent out emails to all vendors with the updated construction schedules for both our Heartwood Home projects and also our Old Town Design Group projects.  After I began updating and editing the brochures that will eventually end up in the design binders.  While the brochures are not complete I then took time to assemble a rough template of what the book would contain and the order in which the brochures would be placed.  My day ended by going to the Mirror Concepts showroom to deliver so content for a certain mirror that will be installed at one of our current jobs.

Wednesday July 6

On July 6, I began my day by printing plans, specs, and schedules for a client meeting in the afternoon.  I also finalized the clients selections binder for they will be able to begin picking out the particular products and finishes for their new home.  I then updated the Old Town Design Group construction schedule.  Once this schedule was complete I then edited and updated our weekly packet for the office.  Once these tasks were complete I helped organize bills for a pool house job that we completed.  I was then sent out to photograph our model for we needed a final picture to participate in the Parade of Homes.  My day came to an end by going out and purchasing some design binders that would later contain Heartwood Home projects that have been done in the past and can be displayed for new customers to look through.

Week 8 at Heartwood Custom Homes

Tuesday, July 5

On Tuesday, July 5, I began my morning printing out our take-one brochures to then be placed out in front of all of our current construction sites.  These brochures are informational and basically state what we do as a business and who we are, and how to contact us if interested.  Then once that was complete I printed off flyers for the farmers market do be prepared for the up coming weekend.  We were completely out and so we wanted to get them complete while it was still fresh in our minds.  I then printed out flooring and paint information to be inserted into the customer selections binder.  As the day progressed I printed brochures to duplicate a job binder of various home projects done in the past.  This book will be used as a reference tool for clients to visually see what forms of building we do and have done previously.  I then took the time to develop a new brochure template in Illustrator.  The previous brochures were developed in CorelDraw which was a program like illustrator except it can only handle so much per document before it begins freezing and running very slowly.  With this new template the construction of the brochures should be a lot less time consuming.  I ended my day by contacting the business that takes care of all of our large printing jobs.  I contacted them in regards to pricing for a print job for one page flyers placed on a glossy paper.  Overall the day seemed to go by fast.  

Friday, July 1

On Friday July 1, the majority of my day was spent printing out documents of all sorts.  I composed another client binder, and also finalized printing out material for the client selections binder.  I then updated a few specs.  Once this was finished I went on the search on our server to locate old documents in which we want to organize and create a duplicate binder of, to represent our special architectural features.  Later in the afternoon, I printed out materials for the farmers market happening this weekend.  I also had the pleasure in the afternoon to celebrate with some Heartwood clients the closing on their new home and the presenting of their keys.  This week seemed very long for I did constant updating and work on the binders.  I feel successful though for the binder was pretty much all me, and now homeowners are finally getting them.  It is funny for when I placed calls informing them that they were ready for pick up they seemed so excited.  I am happy to have had part in it and hope that it is a huge success and a great experience for the clients.

Thursday, June 30

On Thursday, June 30, I started my day by going out to Mirror Concepts showroom.  Here I took pictures of various shower door styles so that clients could see differences in the framed, semi-framed, and frameless doors.  When I returned I developed a selections sheet that used these pictures as a reference to be put within the client binders.  I then reviewed our selection binder order forms, for very soon we will be using these to get orders out to vendors to then get the necessary products for each job in Blackwell Park.  After, I revised the Old Town Design Group weekly packet updates.  I then finished composing one clients binder and then another for each of then were given a phone call that their binders would be ready for Friday pick up.  As I composed these binders I also had to revise the introduction letters to each section for they are pretty crucial for full understanding of each section.  My day ended by tiding up my desk because there was a ton of paperwork that managed to pile up the last few days with all the revising and edits I have been completing.

Wednesday, June 29

On Wednesday, June 29, I started my day out by printing some more of the binder content and organizing it within the filing system I had created.  I then worked on introductory letters to each section within the binder that way our clients stay informed and understand what our intentions are for them and the binder. Later in the afternoon I printed out a development land plat and gathered some plans and specs for some meetings my boss had in the early evening.  After this I took time to contact a few of our vendors to get the final updates for the binder so that we were in okay shape to contact some of the homeowners to make them aware their binder would be ready for pick up.  My day ended by filing paperwork into proper job binders under specified tabs for this is the way we keep each project separate and organized.

Tuesday, June 28

On Tuesday, June 28, I worked on construction schedules for both our Heartwood Home clients and Old Town Design Group, Blackwell Park clients.  I also composed a new weekly packet for Heartwood, that way everyone in the office could see the latest updates and up and coming projects, as well as the ones ending.  I then made templates for the Old Town Design Group weekly packet and also edits to the construction schedule.  When these tasks were complete I took the time to send out the necessary schedules to the homeowners so they have a schedule to go by based on when certain things should be getting complete and wrapping up.  I also updated various spec sheets today for we hate falling behind on new things determined by the clients because when we go to have a conversation we are not aware certain finishes or products have been established.  The end of my day consisted of me taking more time to print out selection binder content.

Week 7 at Heartwood Custom Homes

Monday, June 27

On Monday, June 27, I started the day by working on finalizing the binder.  After, I reviewed the binder on my own, to be sure that we covered everything before sitting down and reviewing with my boss.  He reviewed the binder and then recommended I sit down with his wife, the interior designer to be sure that she felt everything was correct and that it was what she was looking for when she presents it to clients.  Following the review I took the time to compose a construction schedule for the three clients we have up and going in Blackwell Park.  I then went back to working on the binder.  I developed a filing system for the binder content so that when it is time to give a client their binder we can easily pull the paperwork out and insert.  This leads to a less time consuming process because then not each individual document has to be printed out.  So with that said, I began taking the time to print out numerous copies of each document so it only is a one time process.  As I went I assembled the start of our first official client binder.

Friday, June 24

On Friday, June 24, I took another whole day to dedicate to the content of the binder.  During this time I also talked with various vendors to get the final pieces and to be sure that we were both on the same page when it came to the content and also the order forms.  The only other content I believe we were missing was the trim and also the newly added appliances.  The master binder will be complete early next week and the plan is to get some of the binders out at the end of the week.  The only other material that needs to be complete are the edits to the order forms which correlate with the content of the binder.  Overall I feel that the week was successful.  I was also thanked for all the hard work I have been doing in order to complete this binder in an orderly manner.  My day ended by printing out plans to be placed in a job folder and taken to the model for visitors to flip through, to grasp an idea of our works and the new residence that are planned for the area.

Thursday, June 23

On Thursday, June 23, I took the entire day to work on content for the binder.  We are finally getting somewhere with it and will be able to compose the client binders very soon.  I have been working a lot with Illustrator, and while I am getting to know the basics I still feel some of the other Creative Suite programs are less complicated to use.  The material I have been creating are informational brochures that include selections in which the clients have to choose from.  Many of them include beauty shots of the materials and products to help the client grasp its appearance and final outcomes.  My day ended with printing out material in preparation for our grand opening of the model to the public.

Wednesday, June 22

On Wednesday, June 22, I began my day updating paperwork from spec sheets to construction schedules and also current job schedules.  I then made revisions to an opening letter that will be placed into the customer selections binder.  We then had an office meeting to discuss the beginning of the new projects in Blackwell Park where our model just opened.  Also the office binder was presented to the team to see if edits had to be made and to see if we were all on the same page.  We then had our vendor from Westfield Lighting come in and he presented to us our online lighting store that the customers will have access to, to develop a lighting wish list and later an order form for all the lighting within their home.  By this time half of the day was over and I began reviewing all the necessary edits.  I contacted those vendors that needed to edit some of their information and I began working on other pieces to insert in.  The day seem to go by quickly.

Tuesday, June 21

On Tuesday, June 21, I printed out numerous informational emails in regards to a clients thoughts on the start up of their home and what they are looking for.  I then updated various specification sheets and also job schedules.  I then met with the interior designer to discuss the format of the order forms we had received for the selections binder to see if any sort of edits needed to be made.  The rest of my day was spent working on binder content for we are in desperate need of completing very soon for we have jobs that are beginning.  My day ended by constructing a template office selections binder so that it could be a hard copy of the customer binders to come.

Week 6 at Heartwood Custom Homes

Monday, June 20

On Monday, June 20, I got into the office and printed out various paperwork from emails I had received in regards to some updates on some of our jobs.  I then began really organizing the customer selections binder and writing down the missing pieces.  After, I met with the interior designer, Wendy Langston, to review the binder, and to get feedback for she is the one who will be presenting the binder and using it in order to get the proper components ordered for each individual client.  When we were complete I took it upon myself to start working on some of the missing pieces these including cabinetry, paint, and brick selections.  The day ended by me contacting those vendors we were still missing work from.

Friday, June 17

On Friday, June 17, I took the time in the morning to meet with my boss to discuss various paperwork, for all week we both have been in and out of the office.  We were just establishing where we stood that way we were on the same page going into next week, where it should be less hectic.  After I did this, I spent the rest of my day at the model assisting the designer in making the final touches to the space before its big reveal to the public.  We had some minor shopping to finish up in order to successfully achieve the look we were going for.  The rest of the day was spent going room by room and arranging and completing all necessary tasks so that the overall looks for each were complete.  Today also all wall pieces were hung which was very time consuming.  As the day came to an end I feel that the house really came together and I felt I was very helpful to the designer.  I truly enjoyed her asking my opinions on things making me feel very included in the design.  This week overall I think was the best week I have had since my internship started.  I was given the challenge to manage my time accordingly between office work and helping out at the model.  I was also given the opportunity to express my feeling when it came to creating a polished room.  Also it is a great feeling to know that I was apart of the design and that the public will be able to view what we have done and with their positive feedback we will get a sense of gratitude and accomplishment.

Pictures will be posted shortly so that you can see the final reveal of the space.

Thursday, June 16

On Thursday, June 16, I started out in the office completing various paperwork.  I also began printing out all of the completed components for the customer selections binder, to get a feel for what we were still missing.  After this the rest of my day was spent assisting the designer in establishing necessary accessories we still needed and addressing what was working and not working for the space.  We also began deciding where artwork and mirrors were going to be placed for Friday was the day in which we had to make sure everything was complete.  I also took the time to steam all of our fabrics from draperies to bedding so that it was more presentable for Saturday when we will be having our private party reveal.

Wednesday, June 15

On Wednesday, June 15, I again started my day in the office.  I started it off by emailing over our completed entry form and picture for the Parade of Homes.  I then completed the laminate selections sheet and printed it off to be placed in our binder.  After that I contacted the fireplace vendor for we discussed the details of the brochure we were wanting to be placed into the customer selections binder.  The rest of my was spent over at the model helping the designer begin getting organized and placing items in which were purchased the day before in places in which we thought they belonged.

Tuesday, June 14

On Tuesday, June 14, my morning started off in the office contacting vendors to getting finalized components of the selections binder complete.  I then composed a selections page for laminate counters to be placed into the selections binder.  After that I was sent out to take pictures of the exterior of model in which will be opening this weekend, but were necessary to be sent in with our Parade of Homes entry form.  After I met with our interior designer there at the house, for the interior still needed to be staged for our grand opening.  The furniture was then delivered and we got a feel for where we felt pieces fit best.  We then took the rest of the day to go out shopping and in search for necessary accessories, and furniture to begin constructing a finalized space.

Week 5 at Heartwood Custom Homes

Monday, June 13

On Monday, June 13, I returned from my vacation feeling refreshed for a new work week.  The first thing I completed was catching up on my emails.  I then worked on creating a powder bath vanity selections sheet.  For our deadline had been bumped on the binder leaving a bit more time to get everything complete before introducing it to the clients.  I then was sent out to retrieve a pool permit in regards to one of the jobs we are currently on.  Later in the day I took time to update various job schedules.  I then printed out specs, plans and a specs checklist for a meeting that would be happening this evening.  My day ended by filling out paperwork for our entry in the Parade of Homes.

Friday, June 3

Friday, June 3, my family vacation began and I will be out of the office until the 12.  I do still plan however to keep in touch with the vendors that do contact me.

Thursday, June 2

On Thursday, June 2, I began my day catching up with work emails.  I then organized every vendor that needed to be contacted based on our meeting from yesterday.  I took the time to contact each with the specifics in which were still necessary from their end.  I then continued revising documents, marketing material, in which I created for the binders.  I also placed phone calls in order to get an irrigation permit set.  Later in the day I had to go retrieve the permit for the contractor to begin digging for the system at the model.  I was also given an assignment to find a mirror for the remodel job, for the one they are really wanting could not get here in time, and they are having a party this weekend.  So I ventured out and located a mirror that will satisfy their taste and need for the time being.  This was nice for I was given a budget and it was good to have a bit of a challenge, considering most of our class assignments never really tend to have a certain amount allotted to spend.
Today, I realized all the hard work that goes into running your own business.  It seems as though it is non stop 24/7, and you can never catch a break, but you can't let the stress defeat you, for there is a lot of people typically counting on you.  It is great to see that there are always flaws and no one job is ever PERFECT.  It is nice to be apart of the behind the scenes instead of just seeing the final outcomes.

Wednesday, June 1

On Wednesday, June 1, I started my day off by going to our soon to be model, to sweep floors before the carpet was to be put down.  After, I headed to the office to have our weekly meeting.  Prior to the meeting I created a small packet of the information we had from vendors to compose our selections binder.  During the meeting we reviewed what we had from each of our vendors and discussed in detail what we were still needing and looking for.  After the meeting I updated various documents from spec sheets to schedules.  Towards the end of the day, I began revising some of the marketing materials to be placed within the binder, that we had discussed.  Today seemed to go by fast, and I think it is because we are in so called "fire drill" mode as my boss calls it.  He is super stressed for we are trying to make major deadlines, and he I think feels very overwhelmed for he just wants things to work out perfectly.  So I lent a hand where ever I could, to help out.

Tuesday, May 31

On Tuesday, May 31, I got into the office and immediately began emailing vendors to see where we stood in regards to getting samples and information for our client selection binders.  I then reviewed cabinetry and  closet documents with my boss to verify they were correct, to hand over to the trim guys.  Later I took time to update various spec sheets.  In the afternoon I worked on organizing and assembling a remodel binder due to the project being just about complete.  Overall the day seemed to fly by.

Week 4 at Heartwood Custom Homes

Monday, May 30

On Monday, May 30, I was given a free day, for our office was closed for the holiday.

Friday, May 27

On Friday May 27, we designated this day to clean the office out, which was much needed in preparation for the design center we will be hosting for our newest project.  We took the time to go through many of the old literature and also samples and decided what needed to stay and what needed to go.  We now have a new refreshed and organized space to work in.  It is now less cluttered and much easier to find things.  After this was complete I took the time to finish checking in the remaining accessories, and then was sent to clean up at the model.  The model is just about finished and so we find it necessary to keep clean to make things easier as we finalize it before opening to the public.  My week has ended and I feel that I am finally getting the hang of things.  I feel like I can be more independent when it comes to work and I don't find myself having to ask as many questions for I understand things better now.  Some of my opinions and ideas have even been taken into consideration, and I think that they see that I want to help in any way that I can.  I get along great with everyone and I am looking forward to the rest of my experience here.

Thursday, May 26

On Thursday, May 26, I started my day in the office by working on a customer selection sheet for the binders we are creating.  I then made some phone calls in regards to some printing we intend to do and also contacted the vendor on that door I have mentioned previously in regards to getting some components for it.  I then took it upon myself to fix the problem we were having with the printer/ copier.  After I took the time to update various spec sheets.  Lastly, my day ended with checking in accessories intended to be used in our furnished model.

Wednesday, May 25

On Wednesday, May 25, i did a bit of house keeping by responding to various vendors who had contacted me back.  I then updated the schedule for the model in preparation for our office meeting.  We then had our office meeting.  Here we discussed the Blackwell Parks model features, reviewed the schedule and where we stood for opening day, the private party that we plan to host for the opening of the model, the public opening, farmers market details, in which we sponsor, and also the customer selection binders.  After the meeting I then took time to update various client specs and checklists. The day continued to fly by and I installed Illustrator to then begin working on more customer selection sheets.  My day ended by going to the model and cleaning up the floors by removing the dust and also marking spots on the wall for drywall repair.

Tuesday, May 24

On Tuesday, May 24, I started the day off by organizing paint samples and ordering ones that were missing.  After this task, I took the time to compose an email to send out to all of the vendors working with us on the newest development Blackwell Park.  This being the small development in which our model will be opening.  This email consisted of a coverletter informing all the vendors as to what we needed from them and when we would like to have everything in order to proceed in creating the customer selections binder.  Also included was a vendor sheet which simply organizes all the information, and a sample order form to give them an idea of our thoughts on how the binders are going to work between us, customer, and vendor.  I then took time to printout plans, specs, and selections checklists for a client meeting later in the day.  The take one brochures were then completed and printed to be distributed out to the various home sites.  Then after, I scanned in various documents for different projects.  After that task was complete, I took the time to create a sink selections page for our customer binders.  My day ended by developing tabs to organize the client binders.

Week 3 at Heartwood Custom Homes

Monday, May 23

On Monday, May 23, my morning started off emailing various vendors, thus trying to gather instructions for a door installation, and also in regards to finalizing some hardware.  I then updated specs based on the paint walk through conducted on Friday.  After this task was complete I worked on take one brochures to promote the home being constructed, and the business.  Each of these will be placed out at the home site for individuals to grab.  I then updated a projects punchlist for the deadline is quickly approaching and we have final components that need to be completed.  After, I took time to order cabinetry hardware for one of our current projects.  The day ended by going out to the new model job site and cleaning and hauling trash out to the dumpster, preparing it for its opening day in just a couple weeks.

Friday, May 20

On Friday, May 20, I got to go in the morning out to a job site to meet with the client and do a paint walk through as well as determining stair components.  It was nice to be able to interact and provide feedback to the client.  I then returned back to the office but was sent out to run some errands.  I delivered some furnace air filters to the model home being constructed and I returned back out to the job site from the morning to drop off some paperwork in regards to the stair baluster pattern and some samples of decking.  When I returned to the office I updated documents.  I then placed some phone calls to get instructions on how to install a particular door being used at one of the sites.  After that I was put in charge of printing a number of brochures that would be handed out at our local farmers market at our booth on each Saturday.  This was a very time consuming process, but I feel that they are very excited to see what business we will receive from the event.  Overall the day seemed to fly by and another week has been completed. After being here for two weeks I feel like I am finally grasping how things are done around here.  Yes days tend to be very hectic and things can sometimes be unorganized but some how my boss and his unorganized mess is organized to him and therefore he knows where everything tends to be at.  I feel that everyone finds that I am very helpful and that they can count on me for I like to get things done and try keeping to deadlines, and being on time. I really have enjoyed the experience thus far and can only imagine it will just keep getting better.

Thursday, May 19

On Thursday, May 19, I began my day by printing off some necessary documents for a trim walk through with a client.  I also had to email our granite vendor some floor plan documents so she is able to construct an estimate for one of our projects.  Then a bit later in the day I was taught how to do some plumbing expense charts, which allows the company to keep track of each job and the amount of money spent with each individual project.  I also sat down with the interior designer here, Wendy Langston, to establish a format for our customer binders for the new development Blackwell Park.  We are trying to manage the customers in providing them with an easy transition of start to finish.  This eliminating the middle man, that being the vendors.  With the binders the customers will be able to view products here in the office and then see pamphlets and make selections from these components and then we simply will get the information to the vendors, to make things simple.  I also sat in on a conference call regarding our door and window company so they had a better understanding of our intentions with what we wanted to provide in the binders.  I ended the day with constructing a brochure to one of our projects.

Wednesday, May 18

On Wednesday, May 18, I continued my work on preparing plans and such for the client brochures.  It seems these have taken me along time but I have encountered numerous problems with AutoCad and also CorelDraw throughout this whole process.  The problems have been primarily with CorelDraw because it has a habit of freezing and delaying because the documents being placed within, the floor plans, are large, therefore slowing it way down.  I have also struggled a bit with the layers of AutoCad and I am not sure if it is because the version I am using is older or if it is because I just haven't used AutoCad in awhile.  So becoming familiar again, seems I just need time.  Another task I worked on was updating our vendor checklist for our new neighborhood, updating all of their current information, so the client binder's process could begin.  I then took another look over the hardware specs that were worked on the day before and updated it with the information that was sent back from the vendor with proper dimensions.  I also prepared documents such as a project schedule, specs, and plan, and also some samples for a client meeting that was to be held at 4:30 p.m.  I filled paperwork, and also followed up on phone calls with vendors in regards to having accurate information in our documents.  The day ended by updating the estimation spread sheet I had been working on the day before simply by revising some of the numbers.

Tuesday, May 17

Tuesday, May 17, was just another day in the office. Today I did a paint spec and also took a plan and color coded with highlighters where each color of paint was to be put on the walls throughout the home.  This document was then sent to the homeowners as a preliminary paint spec packet that they could approve or make changes to.  I also worked on an estimation spread sheet that broke down all the various components of a project to get a better idea of cost.  Throughout the day I scanned and filed paperwork for document references. I also constructed a hardware document to then send to our vendor so that we were on the same page as for the details and also the number of each needed for the project.  My day ended by constructing some more of the brochures I have been working on.  Overall I feel like I am really developing my Excel skills and I think I am finally getting a good understanding of how the CorelDraw program works.  Also, the vendors have been nothing but nice and I have been receiving emails with welcomes and looking forward to meeting with yous.  I feel these are some great ways of networking and I look forward to keeping up with them throughout this experience.

Week 2 at Heartwood Custom Homes

Monday, May 16

On Monday, May 16, my day began by updating the weekly packet schedule.  After that was complete I moved on to the work that had been discussed during the meeting on Friday.  From the meeting, we discussed develpoing a punch list for a project that will soon come to an end and also updating another clients specs and project schedule.  So this paperwork was constructed and completed.  I then printed off appliance specs for the model home going up in their latest neighborhood.  These specs were then taken to the home where I met my boss and we measured the spaces in which they would be placed as well as set out hardware in proper locations for it to be installed.  After this task was complete I worked more on AutoCad hatching plans, and then developing client brochures as mentioned in prior posts. My day came to an end by running out and picking up some wooden doors and delivering them to there proper home site.  Overall entering my second week into the internship experience I feel that I am really grasping the company's means of organization, when it comes to their documents.  I also am grasping a better understanding of how important staying on schedule is.  Spec sheets are becoming very familiar and I now have well rounded knowledge of all that must be included in order to keep everyone on the same page.  I also feel that I am blending well with my coworkers for we can have conversations, and it doesn't feel uncomfortable or awkward.  In fact today was my birthday, and one of my coworkers was so sweet that when she returned from her lunch break she brought back a cupcake to me.  The little gestures go along way and I am feeling very accepted.

Wallcovering Photos from Thursday, May 12

I wanted to include some of the things I have been working on while at my internship, from the first week. These here are photographs taken by my boss and me of the wallcovering I had mentioned from Thursday, May 12.  You will see various pictures of the sample, as well as pictures of it once it has been put on the wall.  It is easy to compare the two and see the flawed areas once the wallcovering was applied to the wall.  We are still keeping in touch with the manufacturer to resolve the problem.

Friday, May 13

On Friday, May 13, I got into the office and again updated various Excel documents in regards to the jobs schedules and spec sheets.  I was then introduced to a program they used known as CorelDraw.  This program is very similar to InDesign or Illustrator.  I used this program to begin creating brochures that will be placed outside each construction home site. I also used AutoCad again, to continue hatching plans.  The day ended with a meeting to develop an outlined schedule for one of the jobs in progress, and also a punch list for a remodeling job wrapping up and becoming finalized.

Thursday, May 12

On Thursday, May 12, I got into the office and started the day of by updating all Excel documents in regards to schedules and spec sheets.  I also got to go into the field and visit a remodel project.  Here I photographed some wallcovering that was put up in the powder bath that was flawed and the client was unhappy.  Though directions were followed there was some sort of error and so we have been keeping in contact with the vendor in order to make things right.  I also took some time to hatch drawings in AutoCad.  I then printed out all updated floor plans and electrical plans for each of the ongoing projects for we have at least eight going at this time.  The day ended with a brief discussion on the client binders for the newest development so that we could get this idea up and running.

Wednesday, May 11

On Wednesday, May 11, I did a lot of updating in Excel on various spread sheets for clients.  This ranged from making changes to each project schedule as well as updating their latest spec sheets.  I also assisted in establishing a good trim, chair rail, and stair components for a client before a meeting later that existed.  On this day I also familiarized myself with the company's website, as well as the new development website and the blog.  This is a task I will be working on throughout this experience, I will add latest jobs and also keep information updated for visiting prospects.  I also reviewed various vendors that I woud be working with when developing the individual customer client binders.  Overall the day was just another learning day.

Week 1 at Heartwood Custom Homes

Tuesday, May 10

On Tuesday, May 10, I began my internship at Heartwood Custom Homes located in Carmel, Indiana.  It is ranked as one of the Top 25 Largest- Indianapolis-Area Custom Home Builders.  My experince began in the morning with a simple introduction to the staff.  After I was able to meet the team, I was then given a tour of the office building.  After the basics were taken care of my day of work began. It started with simlpe tasks of filing client binders to organize the paperwork involved with each project, and also composing informational folders for existing neighborhoods for people of interest to take.  I then was given the task to navigate their system for they keeps files very organized.  After that was complete I developed a new email address to include me within the company.  Then as the day progressed I did small jobs just to get into the swing of things.  One task was updating the latest weekly schedule, in which they develop each week to keep up on progress with each project taking place.  I also filled out various other excel documents to keep files updated.  Overall the day went well and they transitioned me in smoothly, so that I would not be overwhelmed.