Soggy Dollar Daze

Facing an empty nest and a midlife crisis, Bruce and Debby faced a reality that many couples their age faced, so they began seeking a change from their high-tech suburban lifestyle. They investigated many options, including the attractive prospect of owning a bed and breakfast somewhere in New England—despite their lack of relevant experience, it just seemed to fit their idea of a personal service business that also fed their personal passions of sociability. The couple researched tirelessly, coming up with a few realistic options, until one day a casual glance at the Wall Street Journal real estate ads offered an unexpected opportunity—and less than a year later, they took over a small beachside resort containing four cottages, a bar, and a restaurant in the Virgin Islands. The business had started 24 years earlier, but was still a bit primitive—no road, electric services, phone, or water supply—but the beach was beautiful! Despite discovering a raft of limitations and challenges, Bruce and Debby ignored the quirky features and became full-time, on-site owner/managers of their new 10-year business adventure!