I got laid off at 53 from a senior management position in a restaurant. And I knew it was going to be hard to find another job in the (competition) working market. My age put me at disadvantage. But I also knew it was time for me(realize) my lifelong dream of owning a restaurant. was most difficult was that in order to make this happen, I needed to find an (exist) café that wasn't doing well. It couldn't be better if its owner was ready to quit his business. With great (lucky) I found just what I wanted eight blocks from home. Since I had never financially planned for this day, I had to borrow money from friends as well as (relative). I, together with my wife, (be) ready to start off. We changed the name to Black Dog Coffee, the menu, the recipes and the look of the cafe, and my wife did great job of designing. Eighteen years later, we're still here and doing (well) than ever. I'm gratefulthe layoff and the opportunity to pursue my dream.
