I thought I should share this with you since I’m amazed at how long it’s lasted. When we got some carrots from our CSA a few weeks ago, I was looking at the carrot tops, and my empty vase and had a brain storm. I filled the vase with water and began putting carrot tops into it as I cut them off. It’s made a beautiful and simple centerpiece that didn’t start wilting for 3 weeks!
Now, for my HUGE announcement. Yesterday I followed through on a big and scary decision. I quit my job. That’s right, in the midst of this crazy economy, after months of searching for the RIGHT new job before I quit my old one, I’ve quit my job without having another one lined up. It sounds crazy, I know, but we really think it’s the right decision.
Last week, Eric and I prayed and talked a ton about the idea of pursuing the start of my own company and hopefully a non-profit organization. I told him it needed to ultimately be his decision if I quit because he would be the “bread winner” until my business gets off the ground. He decided on Thursday that it was what I’m supposed to do. Then I got two great confirmations that it was the right decision.
1. Right after we decided that and asked God to help us have what we need financially, we got a $500 refund check in the mail from our health insurer!
2. As I was driving to work yesterday, seriously nervous about telling my boss and how she’d react, I decided to turn on the radio for encouragement. It was on Spirit 105.3 and when I turned it on the announcer said “More uplifting music for your day” and then a song started. I don’t even really like the song because it’s not my style, but it was exactly what I needed at that moment. It’s all about how there’s a time for everything, a time to say yes and a time to say no, a time to move on, and how God is with you through all of it. I just started cracking up and had the courage I needed to tell my boss without feeling sick to my stomach like I usually do in potential conflict.
So what’s next? I’m honestly not sure. I’d like to work for myself from home doing freelance writing and recipe development along with taking my blog to the next level. I enjoy this and am good at it, it’s mostly a matter of finding the opportunities to make it pay the bills. Plus it’s something I can do from home when we start planning our family in a year or so. But one of my ultimate dreams is to start a nonprofit organization in my area. I have a passion for teaching low income families how to shop for affordable and healthy ingredients and how easy cooking is. I also love teaching children to cook and all about nutrition. I so want to offer classes in the area, but the people I’d like to teach can’t really afford to pay for classes.
I’ve never started my own business (lemonade stands don’t count!) and certainly not a nonprofit, so I have a ton to learn. I’m pretty nervous about the details of LLC’s and 501c3’s and accounting and all that, but I really feel this was the right thing to do so I know it’s going to work out. On that note, if any of you have any advice or ideas, I’d love your input! Do you have experience in starting a small business or nonprofit, in freelance writing or know some good resources? Let me know, and if you live nearby maybe I can take you to coffee and pick your brain!
Wow, Diana, that is a really big decision you made. Good on you for following God’s lead. Stick with Him, He’ll take care of you.
That’s definitely a big decision, but you did what you felt is right. I’m sure things will work out in your favor. I did the same thing a little over a year ago. So far I’ve managed to survive with God’s grace and keeping my chin up through it all.
Wow, that is a big decision. It will work out, though! And great idea w/ the carrot tops–it works well w/ fennel, too.
Hey lady, I am proud of you. I have several ideas. Lets figure out a time to talk about some of them. See you Monday ( I think!)
Congrats on taking that step! It’s totally a big deal, but change is good. Big change is better. The female half of this Duo has done exactly the same…well, not quit, but requested a reduction in hours to pursue food an starting a biz. 🙂 Just go for it!
How exciting! Sounds like a fun new endeavor! I’m excited to see what comes next! Congrats! I love it when God confirms things in fun ways too 🙂 whoo hoo!!
Congrats!
Congrats on winning the Bertolli challenge
and congrats on the idea of starting something of your own! I’m new to your blog, but I can see your passion for cooking, and starting an NGO is such a noble thing! I’m sure you’ll succeed, Good Luck!!:)
Well done what a wonderful idea you have to follow your true calling, and listening to your inner voice and following the path laid out by GOD. I wish you success at every step and hope that you go forward and find success in everything you do 🙂 Big Hug
Wow! I sure wish that I had some resources or info to help you on your way. I think that your ideas and talents are greatly needed. Good luck and congratulations!
Congrats on your decision and on taking a chance. I am positive it will turn out well! “Will Write for Food” by Diane Jacob has some information about freelance food writing, cookbook writing, etc. and the SBA website has tons of useful info on starting a business (not sure whether they have non-profit info but they might). You also may want to check out the Washington State Bar website (www.wsba.org) and see if they have any programs that give advice to non-profits on starting up etc. Good luck and please let us all know when we can donate to yur newly minted non-profit!
Congrats; I’m so happy for you with quitting your job…I’m so happy for you..no matter what you do, you’ll be a true success…keep up the great blogging…I can’t wait to meet you at Foodbuzz in San Fran!!!