My neighbor, the retired librarian from Central High School, cultivates and builds beautiful landscapes in the park across the street from his house. He’s planted ferns along the small creek and gathered rocks for building retaining walls and gardens. I once asked him about his hobby and he said he read in a book, of course, that said to find a hobby during retirement, think about what you liked to play when you were a child.
So I Thought
As a kid, I liked two things: playing cards and dressing up in costumes. More specifically, I liked pretending to be the maid to my best friend, Queen Marigay. I’m still not sure if I enjoyed serving her or just thought the maid’s black dress looked particularly good on me, but I did love the game.
Today I still like cards. I can hold my own at blackjack and Texas hold ’em but gambling is not my thing … I think it is because someone has to lose. So, I have been at a loss for a retirement hobby. I certainly don’t want to be a lady’s maid. That would be a step backwards in my career trajectory and I don’t like taking orders from anybody, even if the outfits are cute. (I do like a ruffled, white apron, though.)
I May Have Accidentally Figured It Out
This April, three nights a week from 5 pm to 10 pm, a group of us opened the Dreamland Lounge for cocktails and conversations. It is a soft opening, easy going, and a little experimental, as we learn the ins and outs of the bar business in Little Rock. I love the aspect of problem solving in groups, the creativity that comes from building something new, and yes, the dressing up and taking care of guests.
Just this week it dawned on me. My new business, which is more fun than anything else, may have surprisingly checked the box for my retirement hobby!
You’re Invited
If you happen to be in Little Rock the weekend of May 7th (Thursday, Friday, or Saturday night), you’re invited. There will be what I can confidently call the most interesting art show in the city (and maybe one of coolest and rarest events around), hosted in the beautiful Dreamland Ballroom. And while you’re there, stop by and take a sneak peek at my new, sexy lounge for a cocktail or mocktail of your choosing.
Hope to see you soon!
About the Author
Kerry McCoy founded FlagandBanner.com in 1975 with just $400 and a dream, building it from door-to-door flag sales into a multi-million dollar enterprise. With over five decades in the American flag and banner business, her insights into patriotic trends and flag sales patterns come from serving customers nationwide during times of celebration, crisis, and everything in between.
Kerry is also the host of “Up in Your Business with Kerry McCoy” radio show and continues expanding her business empire through Kerry McCoy Enterprises while sharing the entrepreneurial wisdom gained from decades of building the American dream.
