Woman gets new leash on life
Starts her own business at age 64
By
Judd Cribbs
Story Created:
May 19, 2008 at 4:43 PM EST
Story Updated:
May 19, 2008 at 6:35 PM EST
Mary Stuczynski spent 20 years working in Collier County government. During this time, she also did some pet-sitting, mainly as a hobby.
But when the county offered her early retirement last month , she jumped at the chance to take her pet-sitting full time. Now, that's her new career and one which she thinks she'll clearly love.
She also is getting some help from her daughter and granddaughter and she hopes to leave them a business legacy. "This is my dream," she says with a smile, "this is my passion. And when I go to the big kennel in the sky, it's theirs if they want it. But only if they want it."
Mary says she hasn't even had to advertise, relying on word-of-mouth from current clients. She admits she's making less money now but doesn't seem to regret the decision to start a new career one bit. "Even if it's not as much, so what? What difference does it make? I'm so happy doing what I love."
You can e-mail Mary at Affectionately Yours Pet Care at: AffectionatelyYours@comcast.net
Thursday, Jun 5 at 9:38 PM Gidget's Owners wrote ...
Mary is the best. It's like leaving the kids with your mom. You know there's no one better and you don't have to worry. Mary's a special lady and it shows in everything she does.
Thursday, May 29 at 10:54 AM Pat wrote ...
You look wonderful Mary, I am so happy for you, enjoy, but we miss you
Thursday, May 29 at 8:27 AM Jane wrote ...
Mary takes care of my cats when I'm out of town and for a very reasonable price. I always feel better knowing that she's watching over my babies.
Thursday, May 22 at 11:30 AM Judy and Tony wrote ...
Congratulations on your retirement. Happy to hear (and see) you're so happy.
Wednesday, May 21 at 9:53 AM Terry wrote ...
Hey Aunt Mary! I'm Happy For You too! Love you a lot!
Wednesday, May 21 at 8:36 AM SEA wrote ...
I love that dog! Can I borrow her?
Tuesday, May 20 at 1:26 PM Kay wrote ...
You look like you're doing wonderfully. I am so envious you get to work your dream job. We can all learn a lot from you.
Monday, May 19 at 9:17 PM Lisa wrote ...
GREAT JOB!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! YOUR#1
Monday, May 19 at 7:42 PM Bob and Alice Rich wrote ...
Looks like a celibrity in the family .We all knew that "Going to the dogs" really didn't mean what some folks think. Have a terrific retirement.
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