Transition: After 22 years in corporate marketing and product management, Carl Goetz was downsized at age 48 in 1991. The couple bought an Express Personnel franchise in 1991using some of Jean's 401(k) money.

What they've built: After diffi cult years in 2001, 2002 and 2003, the Goetzes are having one of their best years.

Retirement planning: Last year, the Goetzes began offering a Simple IRA to their staff of six. In addition, the couple has been saving as much as possible the past two years.
The golden years: "We're looking at exit strategies," says Jean, 60. That is likely fi ve years away, and they are counting on the sale of the business to fund part of their retirement. In the shorter term, one idea is to hire someone who would become a part-owner so Jean and Carl could cut back to three or four days a week.