I have a dear friend from work who I have now had the pleasure of knowing for over 4 years. Being a breast cancer survivor herself, she was a huge source of support when I received my diagnosis and helped me navigate the unknown terrain I was heading toward. She and her husband of over 40 years, like most Americans 10 years ago, had stable, long term jobs, and were looking forward to retiring. But as we all know, the down turn in the economy swiped those retirement dreams away from millions of people. My mom still laments having to continue to work well into her 70s. It just doesn't seem right. But like my mom, this couple has done what they have had to do to still live life to the fullest. Then they decided to make a fabulously bold move...a move a 30 year old would make with little thought. Both still working day jobs, they decided to take their life savings, what was left of it, and invest in a business that might carry them through the rest of their lives and be an enjoyable journey on the way.
Meet Larry and Barb....part of the bold, older population taking the business world by storm. This couple is tireless, working some 12-14 hour days, six days a week to pursue their dream and still pay their mortgage. But when I recently watched this couple at work when I visited their shop in Brookfield, Wisconsin, I did not see an old couple, winding down in life, fatigued by being over-worked. No, this couple appears to have a rejuvenated sense of life and all it has to offer...both relishing the fact that they get to spend so much time meeting interesting people while offering a product they enjoy and believe in.
Larry and Barb chose to invest in purchasing a franchise called "Water to Wine". Check out their business. Their wine selection is fantastic...
Larry and Barb chose to invest in purchasing a franchise called "Water to Wine". Check out their business. Their wine selection is fantastic...
Although this couple is working very hard to make their dreams come true, their wisdom in age has them enjoying the journey as much as the potential outcome. They are learning new things, meeting so many new people, and making new friends with local business owners and media outlets. Their hard choice which once seemed hoisted upon them has seemingly become a mecca in their twilight years. Larry and Barb, I wish you all the luck in the world, but I don't believe you two need luck with how hard you work and with how you both embrace life, both the struggles and opportunities. I raise my glass to a beautiful couple I am proud to know!
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