Why this Miami fashionista traded beach vibes for snowy slopes
Move over, Gen Z influencers — there’s a new ski bunny in town, and she’s proving that age is literally just a number. When Miami-based travel writer Sarah Greaves-Gabbadon decided to hit the slopes for the first time at 57, she didn’t just challenge herself – she completely revolutionized what it means to start fresh later in life.
The unexpected life change that sparked an avalanche of adventure
Living that sun-soaked Miami life, Greaves-Gabbadon was more interested in après-ski fashion than actual skiing. But sometimes life has other plans, and a major personal shift led her to adopt a totally game-changing mindset: If not now, when? If not me, who?
Why this tiny Swiss village became the ultimate learning paradise
Instead of heading to the glitzy, see-and-be-seen vibes of St. Moritz, Greaves-Gabbadon chose Mürren — a hidden gem in the Swiss Alps with just 428 residents. Picture this: no cars, no pretension, just pure mountain magic accessible only by cable car. It’s basically the definition of authentic Swiss charm.
The first-day jitters that almost changed everything
Let’s talk about those ski boots for a second. They’re basically like walking in cement blocks while trying to look graceful. Greaves-Gabbadon’s first moments at Schweizer Skischule Mürren-Schilthorn weren’t exactly Instagram-worthy, but they were real. And sometimes real is exactly what you need.
That awkward moment when you realize you’re definitely not a natural
Here’s the thing about learning to ski as an adult — your brain gets in the way. While kids fearlessly zoom down slopes, adults tend to overthink every move. Greaves-Gabbadon’s instructor explained that grown-ups need more verbal instruction, probably because we’re too busy calculating all the ways things could go wrong.
The unexpected truth about falling (spoiler: it’s not that bad)
Remember in school when falling in front of everyone was basically a social death sentence? Well, here’s the plot twist – falling while learning to ski is actually totally normal. Sarah’s first wipeout turned into a laugh-out-loud moment instead of a walk of shame.
The chocolate-fueled comeback that changed everything
Day two brought a mix of group lessons and one-on-one instruction that pushed Greaves-Gabbadon to her limits. But here’s the secret sauce — Swiss chocolate breaks and pure determination. It turns out that sometimes the best motivation comes wrapped in foil.
Why the magic carpet isn’t just for Aladdin anymore
Learning to navigate the beginner’s slope transport system — aka the magic carpet — became a victory in itself. It’s basically like trying to step onto a moving walkway while wearing moon boots, but Sarah mastered it like a pro.
The life-changing lesson hidden in the Swiss Alps
Here’s the mind-blowing truth Greaves-Gabbadon discovered: the line between soaring and face-planting is paper-thin, and it’s usually just fear holding us back. Whether you’re tackling black diamond slopes or just trying something new at work, the principle stays the same.
The Miami aftermath: bringing mountain courage to beach life
Back in Miami, Greaves-Gabbadon’s ski adventure became more than just a cool travel story. It transformed into a metaphor for embracing life’s challenges head-on. Now, when faced with new opportunities, she approaches them with the same fearless attitude she developed on those Swiss slopes.
Why this story matters more than ever
In an era where social media can make us feel like we’ve missed the boat on certain life experiences, Greaves-Gabbadon’s ski journey is a refreshing reminder that timelines are just social constructs. The pressures to achieve everything by a certain age are arbitrary, and her story proves that age is irrelevant when it comes to new adventures — especially skiing. Whether you’re 25, 57, or 82, the best time to start something new, like skiing, is exactly when you feel ready. Sarah’s experience shows that the journey is personal, and stepping outside the comfort zone is a choice that’s open to all of us, whenever we decide to make it.
The bottom line: Age is just a number on the slopes
The next time someone gasps at your plans or questions your timing, remember the Miami fashionista who boldly traded her beach vibes for ski slopes at 57. She didn’t just shrug off the usual doubts about age or physical limits—she embraced the challenge and redefined what’s possible. Because here’s the truth: the only person who gets to decide when you’re too old for something new is you. Her story is a reminder that the power to set our own milestones and pursue passions at any age is entirely within our control. Whether it’s skiing, learning a new language, or changing careers, there’s no expiration date on our dreams.
Pro tips for wannabe adult ski beginners
- Choose a low-key destination where you can learn without pressure;
- Invest in proper gear – it makes a huge difference;
- Embrace the learning process, including the falls;
- Find an instructor who understands adult learning styles;
- Pack chocolate (this is non-negotiable);
- Celebrate small victories;
- Remember that everyone was a beginner once.
The takeaway that will change your perspective
Starting something new isn’t about being the best — it’s about being brave enough to be the worst. Greaves-Gabbadon’s journey from Miami fashion enthusiast to Swiss ski student proves that sometimes the most rewarding adventures start with simply saying yes.
Whether you’re considering skiing, painting, learning a new language, or finally starting that podcast, let this be your sign. The slopes are calling, and age is just a number on your lift ticket.
