Why Zoe?

Jim and I had always said that if we had a daughter, we would name her Zoe Catherine. What I did not realize was that the name Zoe is Greek for "Life" or "Alive". How very appropriate for this new venture!



I have been searching for my purpose for a long time. God creates each of us with unique gifts and I have wanted to make sure that I honored Him by using mine appropriately. Somehow, a career in technology didn't really seem to fit His ultimate purpose for me.



In April 2006, Jim and I were discussing a new technology job that had been offered to me. As we talked through the pros and cons, I realized that the job did not excite me at all. Sure, it was prestigious and challenging but the thought of it left me feeling empty. Jim said "You know, you really should open a boutique to sell women's clothes. You would be so good at that!" While I immediately thought that would be fun, I came up with many reasons that it would not be a good idea. But, I didn't take the job.



I took a different technology job in October 2006 and set my mind to making it a success. When we realized that a biological child was not meant for us in the summer of 2008, my heart and mind began to focus intently on God's purpose for me. There were many ideas (none of which had anything to do with a boutique) but God quietly shut the door on each one. I began to pray for a burning bush to show me what I should do!



I was led to what has become my signature verse for this venture - Matthew 11:30 - For my yoke is easy and my burden is light. I realized that God wanted me to work but to do something that was enjoyable! And I truly feel alive when working on Zoe!

In the fall of 2009, I decided that I needed to find out if the dream of a boutique was really a possibility. I interviewed boutique owners and studied their strategies to determine if this was something I really could do! And I found that I could! Jim and I started talking about how we could make this a reality and I also started reviewing my remaining projects at work to determine the best time to make a change.

On April 1, 2010, I submitted my resignation and my final day was May 7, 2010. I am now focused on making Zoe a reality. This blog will be used to chronicle my journey and my inspirations.