Thanks for all the replies!
Just a little background about myself. I am currently and have been for 2 years running my own HVAC business, which has given me alot of good contacts within the local construction industry. I have been doing this as I go to school, which has kept my income at manageable levels for the last few years.
As far as rigs go I do have a few, I can model well on my laptop and render on my desktop(recently upgraded) and it does well. I completely understand about having a steady paycheck, haven't had one in 2 years, but those months you 5k seem to make up for the ones that end up being light. I was actually wanting to start this as a glorified hobby, one for tax purposes (i do love new computers and software!) and also because I have been an artist for as long as I can remember and love anything creative. From past experiences it seems my learning curve on most software is about 1/2 of what everyone else is and I have fallen in love with 3d modeling, especially sketchup.
Also, are there a list of resources that freelancers could get in touch with perspective companies. And how many of you are members of http://www.asai.org and is it worth it.
It may not be a steady paycheck, but companies have to start somewhere, and why not with me in this little Illinois town. That is if our current president doesn't kill small business.
Thanks again!