What is Diane up to now?

What in the world is she doing now?

Inspired…a gathering place

What is Inspired…?

Inspired is a new business that will launch in the fall of 2011, specifically designed for women, by women. Our purpose is to create a space for women to gather, share a cup of coffee, shop in our unique boutique filled with 'inspired' items from local crafts persons/artists. Inspired also offers a 'gathering room' which can be used for everything from your local bridge club meeting to book clubs to events. We will also sponsor various speakers, classes, weight loss groups, and so much more."

Over the years, I have met so many talented women, who have been unable to fully share their talents/experiences/business opportunities/etc. with other women. Our desire at Inspired is to create that ‘go to’ place where you can browse through an entire album of entrepreneurial women with whom you can

connect/share ideas/services/socialize/create and be inspired

What will be located within Inspired…a gathering place?

~A coffee café~

owned and operated by a local independent business woman.

Here you can sit and relax with your friends,

Browse our take one, leave one book shelf,

Enjoy our free WIFI

~Unique Boutique~

Filled with treasures made by local artists/crafts persons,

A place to enjoy/shop/support other ‘inspired’ women

~Gathering Room~

A large room (accommodates up to 25)

Private Space for Rent

Classes offered

Design classes for us to promote for you

Kitchen area for your use

Future catering for your event

~Quiet Space~

A small private corner, tucked away where you are free to read, pray, think, study or just ‘be’

~Onsite Massage Therapy~

Privately owned~Soularium Massage is located within Inspired…a gathering place

~Future Dreams~

We have a large outdoor space where we dream of a secret garden

Where time stands still and you simply can ‘be

 

If you have questions, are interested in displaying your work, would like to use our space for your meeting/class or would like more information about how to utilize this space for networking/advertising…call Diane 616-403-0585

Find us on Facebook at Inspired, A Gathering Place

650 Riley St. Ste. A

Holland, MI 49424

Mountain Climbing...My newest venture

I just love to dream!  Possibilites abound in my mind's eye.  Nothing is too big, no idea is too grand, no limits!!
Then I hit reality...
How can I, a very ordinary woman with limited financial resources pull off a dream that to me is as big of a mountain as Mt. Everest!!   I am no mountain climber, or am I?  My knowlege of mountain climbing is extremely limited, but I'm guessing that it isn't the wisest thing to climb alone.  Thus, I too, need partners to journey with me in this venture.  For those of you who are not aware of my business venture, let me give you brief discription of what I know thus far.
 I have learned that when God is in something, He doesn't always reveal the full picture.  He just asks us to join Him in the venture and each day brings another piece to the puzzle.  Some time ago I just felt this nudge, this inspiration, if you will, to design a space where women could meet, share their passions and talents, have a quiet space, gather, laugh, etc. etc.  Nothing defined and certainly no business plan!! Just an idea.
It becomes clearer and clearer as I meet and talk with friends, acquaintances, and others that just 'happen' to land in my path. 
I have a space for this business now and will soon sign a lease for this yet, fully established 'idea' of mine.
If I didn't have total faith in what God is doing through me, for my fabulous female friends, I would NEVER venture down this road.  Remember, I do hair!
Here is glimpse of what I see down the road, still to be clarified more fully(Hurry Up God) Oh yes, timing is everything, right?
Inspired...A Gathering Place
is designed by divine inspiration as a place for women to gather, to share a cup of coffee in our cafe, to browse & shop in a cozy boutique, where we feature many items created by local crafters and artists.  We also provide a larger 'gathering' space for meetings, classes, events(both private and sponsored)
Our gathering place is  designed to give you the perfect place for your group to relax, share in a private setting, hold classes, events, etc.  We give you the opportunity to provide your own refreshments or let us take care of the details for you.
As much as possible, everything that we do, sell and offer to make Inspired...a pleasurable experience, comes through local 'inspired' women, entrepenuers, so that you are supporting women who have a true passion for what they do.
We offer a great book shelf, our TAKE ONE, LEAVE ONE shelf, so we can share with one another some great reading opportunites without making a purchase.  When our large gathering place is not in use, you will find a nice little corner for your own personal  time out.  Whether used for reading, praying, meditating, or just being, it is offered at no charge, so you can re-charge.
It is truly my belief that women need a 'sacred' space, where conversation flows freely, creativity can flourish, a sharing of passions can be realized and time stands still.

Now, the only piece missing is YOU!  All of these ideas need women, creative women to fill some of these roles.  I'm asking that you consider this dream and if it 'catches' you, please send me a note via FB and share your thoughts.  I am looking for truly 'inspired' women, who genuinely sense a desire to invest their time and talents in serving and sharing with other women.  You know who you are and in the next months the process of sorting these special women out will be happening.  Again, that is in God's great timing and His plans.  I must say, having Him as CEO sure makes this process exciting and full of surprises!!! Now, back to mountain climbing, my favorite sport!! Blessings, Diane

The Time is NOW

 My passion is to encourage women to be more, to see themselves through God's eyes, to dream big, to believe in themselves, to see their true beauty and talents, not the beauty that society claims we must have to be successful and loved.
 Much of this passion has been fueled by my work behind the salon chair.  Talking with women on a daily basis and being privy to some of their deepest thoughts has taught me much over the years regarding the true mind and heart of women.  For many years I also served in various ministry capacities, often finding myself around tables with women, sharing our hearts, beliefs, dreams, our fears and failures. 
 Now, as I move into yet another phase of life, I find this passion moving in new directions as well.  So many women that I have encountered are so incredibly gifted and yet have often been frustrated by lack of an outlet for their creativity and talents.  My dream, I believe, is truly inspired directly from God's throne, to create a space where women can gather, express themselves, encourage one another and so much more.
 For months now, I have been dreaming about this space, making notes, praying, processing and brainstorming with a few friends.  The only issues ...what space and considering that finances are tight in this economy, how on earth could I pull it off?
 But, I also know that if God is in a project and gave me the ideas, certainly He has the resources at His disposal to make this happen, right?
 Last month, a space opened up in the little strip mall where I work as a hairdresser. Not only A space, but THE space right next door to the salon.  Hmmmmm, was this a sign?
I inquired with the landlord and not only will I be renting this space, he's creating a VERY SWEET deal to get this idea going!!  Can I get an AMEN??
 So, what is this space about, you ask?
Here's a glimpse with more details to come~
Inspired...A gathering place for women
will be a place where women can gather for a cup of coffee/tea/beverage in our cafe
or browse our selection of boutique items, many designed by inspired area craftswomen.
There will also be a 'gathering room' to be used for many purposes.
Just a few ideas:
book clubs
Bible studies
Private parties and craft events
along with special class offerings from Inspired, including special speakers on topics of interest to women
The whole idea of this space is not to own a business, but to have a business that other women take ownership of, share their ideas, get inspired and inspire one another.
Stay posted for so much more as this adventure continues...Blessings, Diane

Discouraged?

"Strength! Courage! Don't be timid; don't get discouraged. God, your God, is with you every step you take."


Wow, how good is that? To know that God is with us wherever we go and whatever we do.

As I read this from the first chapter of Joshua, I get excited knowing that God is about to lead Joshua and people of Israel into the Promised Land. How would you like to be heading to your promised land? I know, I would!!


God tells him to have courage, strength, to not be terrified or discouraged. God is going with him, protecting and guiding him in this huge endeavor.


BUT...before we get to these exciting words, let's read what God requires before this can happen-


"Be careful to obey all the law my servant Moses gave you; do not turn from it to the right or to the left, that you may be successful wherever you go. Do not let this Book of the Law depart from your mouth; meditate on it day and night, so that you may be careful to do everything written in it."


"THEN YOU WILL BE PROSPEROUS AND SUCCESSFUL"


I don't know about you, but I sure like the success and prosperity part. To have God go before me and with me in my endeavors, cutting down my enemies and those things that stand in my way. But all too often, I desire the goods without desiring God. I want His blessings, His stuff for me, but forget about the first part.


Today, once again, I'm starting anew. Back on track, not turning to the right or left, but listening to God.


Reading His wonderful Book He has provided to give us guidance and wisdom to live the best kind of life.


Yes, I want blessings, but more than that, I want to know that God is pleased with me.


So, today I can be strong, courageous, without timidity or fear, no discouraging thoughts. All because I have a relationship with Someone who has my best interest in mind.

Where are you on this journey? Discouraged, doubtful, afraid or can you say, STRONG! COURAGEOUS!

Take some time, ponder these questions. My prayer is that you find that certainty that God is with you, that you are following Him into your promised land. The good news is, that even if you are uncertain and afraid, He's as close as your prayers. And I'm praying for you too...


Blessings,
Queen Dee

Down On Your Luck?

Last week I received a text from my husband asking me to pray for a veteran that he has been working with.
You see, Jim has the job of Veterans Services for the State of Mi.  This particular vet had been seeking employment for many months.  He's an older fellow, lost or sold about anything to keep food on the table.  He was extremely discouraged and sat at Jim's desk often, just looking for a little encouragement.
As time passed, the two struck up a friendship of sorts and Jim had the opportunity to share his faith with this man.  He felt that although Jim's faith was fine, he wasn't so sure it was his 'thing', although he did appreciate Jim's offers of prayer.
Back to the text: 'please pray for my friend John, he's thinking of ending his life. I hope I changed his mind.'
Apparently, Jim had told him to find a quiet place, take a walk on the beach,whatever and give it all up to God.  The man left very broken and Jim felt the same.
Jim came home, very discouraged and we prayed.  It is so hard when someones needs are so real and all you can do is pray.  That sounds wrong, even to me, to say 'all' we can do is pray.  That should be the most powerful thing we can do.  But he has material needs that we can't fill. It can be such a powerless feeling.
Well, we've continued to pray for this man and just the fact that Jim didn't receive a phone call that he was deceased has been considered good news.
So, today, God showed up in a BIG way!!  Jim's phone rang and it was John.  He was brimming with excitement as he told Jim he got a job!!  And a good job!! He was so thrilled and couldn't thank Jim enough for all of his encouragement and sticking with him.
To see my husband with tears of joy running down his face over this man and his good news, once again reminded me that God is in control, He always shows up right on time, and as in John's life, It's often darkest just before the dawn.  Never give up, on God, on yourself or on those around you.  You never when God is going to show up!
Psalm 41:1,2 "Dignify those who are down on their luck; you'll feel good-that's what God does. God looks after us all, makes us robust with life-" the MSG Bible
Blessings, Queen Dee

Crime fighting

Heres' how it all went down...First, I need to admit I'm not a hero:o(  A young woman came into Yeta's just before I was closing and asked for a shopping bag.  Typically, not a request that we get, unless of course someone has made a purchase.  She appeared to be carrying a jacket or something, and her hands were full, so I figured I'd help her out and close up.  She left and I received a phone call from Gazelle across the street saying that we should be aware of shoplifters downtown.  I hang up, start to walk across the hall to let the gals at Merle Norman know, and there lies a bracelet, tags still on, from yet another store, in the hall.  As my mind realizes that this was probably the shop lifter and I may have just given that little thief a bag for her goods, I race over to tell them and there she is....shopping in the makeup store!!  Fortunately, a salesperson from the store the bracelet had come from was just done working, visiting at Merle's and I got her alone and told her.  We raced back to Yeta's, the other two get the message, detain the thief and we call 911.  Never underestimate women!  Those gals at Merle's not only showed her lipstick and eyeshadows, they tried them on her and even booked her a facial for next week, hoping to get a name and phone number.  (Which they did, but probably fake) I'm assuming she won't keep the appointment either.
Now, I have to tell you that we could have run down to the police station, found a cop, ran back TWICE, in the time it took to finally see one of Holland's finest on the scene.
Before an officer ever arrived the girl left and continued walking down 8th Street.  We attempted to watch and follow at a distance and then it happened.  Apparently she had stolen a dress from a store about 5 down from us.  Apparently she also wasn't so smart, because she had changed into this dress and then paraded right past the store she stole it from....HELLO!!   Bless the owners heart, she went outside, very diplomatically and asked for payment for the dress.  Of course, the thief has no money, but says she is willing to take it off and give it back.  They get her into the store and FINALLY, an officer arrives.  We are standing outside our stores, watching with baited breath, and then running down to the scene of the crime.  Here is what we found when we entered the store.  The owner screaming that the policeman was getting the crap beat out of him, another officer arriving and pouncing on this girl, as she was screaming(and I mean screaming, kicking, cussing) at them.  It took two of them to hold down this chick, who weighed no more thatn 110 lbs.  She was one lean, mean fighting machine.  They actually threatened her with a tazer to get her to shut up. I think I would have yanked on her hair, slapped her face and told her to knock it off, but then I'd go to jail too.  I sure wanted to though!!! She was crazy!!It seems that she got some good kicks to the head of the first officer before his back up arrived.  She had some mean looking boots on, I noticed them earlier(actually I was coveting them) Later found out they were brand new and stolen too!!
Finally, she was removed from the scene and carted off.  As the officer went through her purse(which was huge) he found items from more than 5 stores.  The bracelets and bangles she wore were identified as coming from a boutique, but the tags were gone, so went the proof.  It was an exciting night and I'll bet that officer will have one dozey of a headache.  He may have an ache in his pride too.
So, you see, all I did was find a bracelet, put two and two together, got my crime fighting sisters with me and we had the time of our lives. 
And the only thing she got from Yeta's was the bag!

Thoughts from the Throne: I NEED A VACATION!

Thoughts from the Throne: I NEED A VACATION!: "I am tired, worn out, weary, need a vacation, done, shot, over it, tired... Ever feel like that? Ever NOT feel like that? Being worn out so..."