The Camp House

When I first became a mom, four-and-a-half years ago, I had a difficult time letting go of the me before kids. I can't be certain, but perhaps it was hard to make the adjustment because I had spent my ENTIRE adult life (almost 10 years!) filling roles that did not include motherhood. 

Thankfully my life circumstances at the time allowed me to continue working part-time as a graphic designer and I have been able to spend the last 5 years wearing multiple hats.

One of the biggest blessings of continuing part-time with my career, besides keeping a foot in the door and my skills up-to-date, is that I made a friend who understands the me who works. This has been helpful in so many ways since I no longer go to an office where I would be surrounded by peers.

We actually met through Craigslist, when I was first just starting up freelancing in the Chattanooga area, and we have been colleagues and friends ever since.

Initially 98% of our interaction was through email, but in recent years we have made an effort to get together several times a year for coffee or breakfast. We talk shop. We talk motherhood. We talk about life in general. We discuss current projects, client frustrations, new software, and she doesn't mind if I bring a baby along (I'm pretty sure Jack tagged along as a newborn when she first interviewed me!).

I'm so grateful that I live in a time that I can work remotely, and that I have peers who understand why I choose to freelance as well as the frustrations (and benefits) of working from home.

Today we met at The Camp House in downtown Chattanooga for breakfast. The place was hopping. I had a latte with my scrambled eggs, bacon, and potatoes with cheese. The food was simple but incredibly delicious. You know I love breakfast, and this place hit the spot. With lots of couches and big tables, The Camp House is a great place for a meeting or to work remotely (though maybe on a quieter day, today was super loud). They also have a huge outdoor area for warmer days.

The Camp House is a unique venue in that while it serves as a cafe during the day, and music venue in the evening, it is also a church on Sunday – a part of The Mission Chattanooga Community that meets in three distinct venues throughout the city of Chattanooga. If you haven't had a chance to check out The Camp House, you really should.