Hey everyone… I often get asked how’s southern living been for me, so just a bit of break from the norm, I decided to talk about it a bit.  Not to overwhelm (or bore) you, I’ll make this a three part series over a period of time.  When I left the big “brick city” Newark, NJ – I can’t reiterate enough how it was the most scariest feeling I ever had.  For me, change doesn’t come so easy (as it may for some) because I second guess everything.  I envy my children and their courage to pick up and relocate, and I know it was based on ambition (which is a good thing), but for me, not so easy.   From knowing I was going to take a major pay cut, leaving the only world I knew behind to face uncertainties was horrifying.  Of course the option to move back to Jersey was a possibility, because we hadn’t sold our multi-family home, however, the thought of going back to high taxes, high crime, noise pollution, heavy traffic after being exposed to peace and quietness, gave me even more agita. So I learned to mellow down, make the lemonade, relax and adapt to the southern slaw of life.  I know life is filled with twists and turns, ups and downs, and at some point we all will have to make decisions on directions, but here are some simple tips I can offer and what got me through one of the toughest decisions and adapt.

1)  Breathe. Meditate, Take time for yourself and think about what would make you happy

2)  Pick up a hobby – perhaps something you never had a chance to do before or continue to elevate your existing hobby

3)  Take this time to declutter your home as well as your thoughts

4)  Take walks – it helps clear your thoughts

5)  Smile at people (and wave).. that always breaks the ice and they’ll smile back at you

6)  Have an open mind – Try to let go of some of the northern conveniences to see the beauty

7)  Drive at a slower pace – also learn to talk miles not minutes ( up north we referred to how long it takes to get somewhere in time frames.  Here, I heard “it’s about 20 miles)

8)  If you want hot tea, make sure you say it.. because tea here is cold and sweet)

9)  Don’t be shocked to hear the word “Yankee” – (I was shocked, but I didn’t take offense to it- I smiled in the conversation and clearly stated we won the war – hahaha) it broke the ice

10) Have Faith – you’re going to need it

Want to hear more?  Here’s my latest video on this subject –  and if you have any questions, please drop me a comment here on or on my channel – I’ll respond.

I’ll end this post with saying, I know my father will roll over in his grave because I’m finding myself saying “Y’all” …. uggghhhh…  – bless his heart, he raised us to never say y’all – but such is life – right?

CIAO!!!!