Happy 60th to me! I'm still in business
Jerry Epperson -- Furniture Today, February 11, 2008
Happy birthday to me, happy birthday to me, happy birthday dear old fat furniture analyst, happy birthday to me!
Yes, it is true. By the time you read this I will have turned 60. Send the Geritol, Depends, thick eyeglasses, toupees, and wrinkle creams to my office, please.
But, like the other 4 million "Post War Baby Boomers" that turn 60 this year, I do not feel old, nor do I consider myself old. Yes, I have my physical challenges (although I am faster today than when I was at 20 thanks to my scooter), my comb feels under-used, my eyesight is great if the print is large enough, and my waistline is nearly the same as my height.
I recognize that I am electronically challenged. My kids help me with my home computer, and I have great help at my office with computer-related issues and my constant companion, Mr. Black Berry. When the young folks at the office laugh at my obvious incompetence on the computer, I remind them that if I knew what they know, I would not need them.
Knock on wood, I still have my own teeth, can dress myself and eat solid foods. I think of myself as a man's man — I still drink water from the tap ... and like it.
My wife and I have had 25 fantastic, wonderful years of marriage, and have been married a total of 38 years. We have two well-educated, well-adjusted, smart, successful children who are happily married and live in homes that do not have wheels on them. My granddaughter can make me forget every worry, pain or problem by smiling and calling me "Pop."
The business that Jim, Howard and I started — just a short while ago, it seems — is now 17 years old with the best, brightest staff ever. Our business continues to be good as investment bankers and corporate advisors. In my opinion, the statistics we have today are better and more timely than ever. My goal of providing information not easily found elsewhere is being met. We have big studies planned for 2008 that I am sure the industry will welcome.
Because I am limited in my mobility, I have been asked if I plan to retire and the answer is no. I am blessed to be doing what I enjoy, working with fine folks in an industry that offers many new challenges. My days are spent largely talking to my furniture and bedding friends by phone or e-mail. Why would I want to stop that?
I do wish my friends would stop retiring, though. I miss many of them.
Let's fact it, at age 60, I am healthier than the furniture business. I am not sure that is saying much.
