Thanks for the compliments. Originally they contacted me and just wanted to replace the support post, install new railing and "do something with the stairs". They were literally at a 45 degree angle and rickety. I knew I could improve on the deck greatly but had to sell it so I made an appointment, drove the 3 1/2 hours to their house and pitched my ideas. They loved them but didn't know if it would be in their budget. I went home, figured my material, labor, food and motel and gave them my bid and the rest is history.
He's a retired painter and is finishing it. He had planned on having it done before winter set in but I contacted him this week to see how things were going and he informed me that he had the flooring stained but didn't get to the railing. He's going to finish it in the spring and send pictures.