From Brooklyn Brownstones to Southwest Sunsets: My Journey from NYC to Northern Arizona

by | Aug 22, 2024

Growing up in Brooklyn, I wore the badge of a city girl with pride. The bustling streets, the vibrant culture, the intoxicating energy—all of it formed the backdrop to my life. But, as life would have it, love sometimes takes you on unexpected journeys. When I married my husband, Dave, we embarked on a wild adventure to the wide-open spaces of Prescott, Arizona. Trading skyscrapers for saguaros wasn’t just a change of scenery; it was a life-altering experience.

 

 

Navigating the Change of Pace

Leaving behind the ceaseless hum of Brooklyn for the mellow vibes of a small town was my first hurdle. In Brooklyn, life moved at the speed of a New York minute– literally! But Prescott? Time seemed to slow down in the best way. It was like stepping into a time warp where the seconds stretched longer and the days unfolded with ease. Adjusting to this slower pace wasn’t easy at first, but I embraced the change by getting involved in the community. I found joy in local events, volunteer work, and even took up hiking—a new hobby that my Brooklyn self would have laughed at. I found a great church and have formed more meaningful friendships here because the pace is slower and everyone is so busy in NYC.

Learning to Live Locally

Brooklyn spoiled me with its endless amenities. Anything I needed was just around the corner, open 24/7. Prescott taught me to be resourceful. I learned to rely on local shops and farmers’ markets, discovering the charm and satisfaction in supporting local businesses. And guess what? I survived! There’s something empowering about knowing you can adapt and thrive wherever you are planted.

Building New Bridges

Starting fresh in a new place meant forging a new social circle from scratch. While Brooklyn’s social scene is like an all-you-can-eat buffet, small-town life is more like a potluck. I had to bring something to the table to make connections. Joining my local church and volunteering became my gateway to forming friendships. In this tight-knit community, I’ve found camaraderie and genuine connections that have enriched my life beyond measure.

 

 

Discovering the Priceless Benefits

Outdoor Adventures: There’s nothing quite like waking up to fresh air and open spaces.  Northern Arizona offers a playground of outdoor exploration that city life never could.The beauty of nature here nourishes my soul in ways I never imagined.

Community Spirit: Neighbors here aren’t just acquaintances; they’re friends who look out for one another. The sense of community is genuine, filling my heart with warmth and belonging.

Cost of Living: Compared to Brooklyn, life in Prescott is remarkably affordable. This has brought a sense of financial peace and the freedom to enjoy life without constant worry.

Mental Well-being: Gone is the relentless stress of city life. Here, I’ve found a more relaxed daily rhythm, which has done wonders for my mental health.

 

Being My Authentic Self

The transition from urban to rural has been a personal evolution for me—one that has empowered me to break free from societal norms and fully embrace a life that feels authentically mine. If you’re considering a similar move, I say go for it! The world is full of opportunities to rediscover yourself in the most unexpected places.

Remember, life is not about where you are, but who you become along the way. Here’s to new adventures and endless possibilities!

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I asked hubs which red dress he liked best for Valentine’s Day, and he liked all of them. Almost.😂 I think #2 was his least favorite (and mine) but he said he liked all of them. Thanks a lot, hon!!

Outfit 1
One shoulder dress by @halston 
Earrings/ ring by @silpadadesigns 
Bag: @badgleymischka 
Shoes @coach 

Outfit 2
Dress by Jason Wu
Jewelry @tjmaxx
Vintage Bag
Boots by: @vaneli

Outfit 3
Dress by: Carmen Marc Valvo
Boots by: @charlesdavidshoes 
Bag: @rebeccaminkoff 

And yes, I’m a repeater. I will wear it over and over as long as it looks good! How about you???

#reddress #valentinesday#thisorthat #maturecouple #over60#dressedfortheoccasion
I swear by my sauna time! Traditional sauna? That deep, soul-cleansing sweat is unmatched. Infrared sauna? A different vibe, heating from the inside out for a more gradual detox. Either way, they both work wonders—soothing muscles, easing joints, boosting circulation, and even supporting brain health. I take it up a notch with light therapy—red for recovery, blue for clarity, green for balance, and purple for a full reset. 💡✨
Science backs this up! In Finland and Sweden, where saunas are a daily ritual, rates of Alzheimer’s and dementia are among the lowest in the world. Meanwhile, here? It’s on the rise, and it’s time we get ahead of it. If you’re not sweating it out regularly, you’re missing out on one of the easiest, most effective ways to invest in your long-term health. Stay sharp, stay strong, and make sauna a habit! 🔥💦
Go at least 3-4 times a week to get all the benefits.
Not to mention how great my skin looks after a deep sweat!

Do you sauna? Let me know in the comments below.👇🏽

 #SaunaLife #BrainHealth #SweatItOut #sauna #infraredsauna
They say age is just a number, but darling, I treat it like an unlisted one. If you don’t mind, it doesn’t matter—and I certainly don’t mind turning heads. Style has no expiration date, and neither does confidence. This black cutout dress? It’s not about proving anything, just a reminder that class and a little boldness go hand in hand at any age.
So, how old would I be if I didn’t know how old I am? Somewhere between “too wise to care” and “young enough to break a few outdated rules.” Let them clutch their pearls—I’ll be over here redefining what aging gracefully looks like.

Dress: @simonmillerusa 
Boots: @vanelishoesusa 

#thisis67
#over60andfabulous
#littleblackdress
#grayhairdontcare
#silverage 
#outfitinspiration
Y’all know you’re gonna have to do a cleanse after you pig out on that Super Bowl junk food, so this message is for you!
Seriously, I needed to do a cleanse to kick start eating clean again after eating poorly throughout the holidays and beyond. I usually do a cleanse to get back on track, and The Master Cleanse is my go to. I do it for 3 days a few times a year, and I feel the difference. It’s fairly simple with these 3 ingredients added to water either hot or cold. I prefer it as a tea.
8 oz Spring Water
2tbsp Lemon
2 tbsp organic maple syrup
1/8 tsp cayenne pepper

Sip 8-12 glasses a day.

I don’t get hungry and I don’t lose energy. I’m still able to workout while on this fast.
An herbal Laxative tea or salt water flush is recommended as well.
For in depth details the book by Stanley Burroughs is in my Amazon Faves.

As always, ask your doctor about it before you embark on a drastic diet change like this. I’m able to do this every several months, but everyone is different.

Let me know your thoughts.

#healthhacks 
#fasting 
#mastercleanse 
#healthylifestyle 

Do you Fast ? If so, which one do you do!👇🏽
#SponsoredByGSK The Kansas City Chiefs playoff game was nothing short of legendary — being part of the @thriveat50plus campaign and cheering on the Chiefs to victory! 🏈✨ It was a joy reconnecting with old friends and making new ones.  
  
We’re rewriting the rule book on aging because looking good and staying healthy go hand in hand. This isn’t your Grandma’s granny life, y’all! 💃🏾  
  
But let’s talk real talk: as we age, our immune system slows down, increasing our risk for shingles. An estimated 1 million people in the U.S. develop shingles annually. That’s why I encourage you to ask your doctor or pharmacist about your risk for shingles and about vaccination.  
  
#over50crew
Blazers for the Win…
Funky patchwork, and a touch of sequins for a little bling. Do people still say bling these days?🤷🏽‍♀️

Anyway, do you have a fave?
Casual elegance.
Don’t forget to Like, Follow & Share!
Thanks for stopping by!

Patchwork Jacket by BLANKNYC
Plaid sequins jacket by Waverly Grey
Lug Boots @samedelman
Ankle Booties: Van Eli
Knee boots: @charlesdavidshoes 
Bag: @laundrybyshelli 

#styleover50 
#styleover60
#winterfashion 
#winterfashionideas 
#stylereels

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