The windows behind my desk are open and the warm breeze and sounds of songbirds have finally entered the world (and my office). After I finally finish rearranging my room this morning to fit in some smallish bookshelves and end tables, I’m going to design to my heart’s content. I have a business project to finish for my girlfriend, a few new themes to finish and add to the shop, and I’m waiting to hear back from three clients about designs. I also want to do some heavy advertising for DC since I haven’t gotten around to doing much of that.

That’s not really what I wanted to post about. I have two articles that I wanted to share about starting up a design business and some of the more popular trends in the design world.

01. 28 Must Read Articles For Growing Your Freelance Design Business by Design Cubicle
Many of these articles are almost imperative when it comes to starting up a web business and I’m glad I found them so soon (thanks Lauren!). I highly recommend you give these a read if you’re thinking about going freelance. I know I will definitely take them into account.

02. Web Design Trends for 2009 by Smashing Magazine
Might I just say, for those of you who haven’t caught on, I love designing. But lately I’ve been feeling like I’ve been stuck in a rut of same-old-same-old layouts and designs. This article has completely inspired me and I cannot wait to get started incorporating these into future designs. You will most likely see some of these in future shop themes (I know this for a fact since I’ve already started on some!). Anyway, check it out and you’ll see what I mean.

It’s a little chillier outside than it was yesterday, but it sounds and smells like Spring and I’m happy.