Newbie from Detroit area

[Eric Mason]

Hello everyone, My name is Eric and I am VERY new to REI. I have been poking around a bit and have learned so much already but I know I have yet to even scratch the surface. I have seen/heard about how crazy the REI game is, especially in my home area. I am interested in getting involved, meeting positive and motivational contacts and starting/growing a business in order to eventually get to the point to be financially free. I realize that is a bit vague, but isn't that why most are here in the first place? Big picture...I want to be around for my wife, my future family, and myself when I want to be without the drudgery of the 9-5 that I have at the moment. I want freedom, I want to work "for myself", I want to be successful for myself and future generations.

If you are in my area and would like to meet/exchange info or have any advice for someone starting out, I am MORE than happy to meet/talk/listen. 

Thanks in advance! I look forward to learning from BP and its community!

Cheers!