Sara Haines, a cohost on ABC’s widely popular talk show "The View," embodies the essence of a family-oriented lifestyle, particularly in her new home in the Jersey suburbs. This shift from the hustle and bustle of New York City to a quieter environment has allowed her to reconnect with the values she cherishes: family, community, and simplicity. Haines’ journey provides insight into how a change in scenery can profoundly impact one’s lifestyle and outlook on life.
Choosing the Suburbs
Haines and her husband, Max Shifrin, made the significant decision to leave the busy streets of Manhattan in favor of the charm offered by the New Jersey suburbs early in the pandemic. Initially seeking a home in Westchester, their first venture into northern New Jersey quickly captured their hearts. The third house they visited, distinguished by a basketball hoop in the driveway, ultimately became their forever home. For Haines, the suburban environment felt reminiscent of her upbringing in Newton, Iowa—a connection she values deeply despite the differences in regional culture.
She observes, “To me, what I love about where we live now is, it takes it back to the basics I grew up with. It’s about family, it’s about community, it’s about church.” These elements of her lifestyle resonate not just as personal choices but as essential pillars of daily life that enhance her family’s well-being.
Life in the Suburbs
Life in northern New Jersey has transformed Haines’ routine vastly. The transition from the vibrancy of New York to the calmer pace of suburbia allowed her to slow down and appreciate life’s simpler moments. Haines emphasizes the joy found in biking, scootering, and spending time outdoors with her three children. She creates lasting family memories in local parks, walking trails, and favorite eateries, such as the artisanal bakery, Able Baker, in Maplewood, known for its sustainable practices and picturesque packaging.
This newfound appreciation for local experiences contributes to her happiness. “It is so simple. It’s biking, scootering. We spend a lot of time outdoors. That’s the main thing that I wanted being out here,” she states, shedding her on-screen persona to embrace a more relaxed, authentic version of herself at home.
Community Engagement
Sara Haines’ ability to integrate into her community reflects her genuine approach to relationships. While she is a recognized figure from "The View," most of her neighbors know her primarily as a mom. Her engagements with them are typically devoid of celebrity culture, allowing her to forge friendships that feel more significant than her television presence.
One of her cherished activities is gathering with local women for book club meetings, where discussions about literature often evolve into engaging debates on various topics. Haines mentions, “Those have honestly been my core group of women friends,” highlighting the importance of social networks in her life outside television.
Creating Family Traditions
In pursuit of continuity and shared experiences, Haines sought to establish family traditions mirroring her childhood memories of traveling to visit grandparents every summer. For four consecutive years, the Haines-Shifrin family has vacationed in Cape May, a town that embodies family-friendly values and community charm. The simpleness of beaches, food, and shared experiences resonates with Haines, reinforcing the principles of connection and togetherness.
“It’s so simple and amazing at the same time,” Haines remarks, underlining how family-centric atmospheres shape lasting memories for her children, just like they did for her during her formative years.
Balancing Work and Family Life
The duality of being a cohost on a prominent talk show while balancing family life can be challenging. However, Haines manages this with grace, treating her role at "The View" as an extension of her community engagements. When preparing for the 29th season of "The View," she expresses gratitude for the opportunities the show provides and emphasizes the relatable, multifaceted nature of the discussions, portraying it as a space where topics range from motherhood to current events.
“It’s like every girlfriend you’ve ever sat down and had a glass of wine with,” she describes her experience on the show alongside cohosts like Whoopi Goldberg and Joy Behar. This dynamic fosters an environment where genuine conversations can take place, addressing both personal and cultural issues.
The Gift of Gratitude
Daily, before stepping into the vibrant atmosphere of "The View," Haines reflects on her journey, reminding herself of her achievements. This sense of gratitude is crucial in maintaining perspective, allowing her to view her role as both meaningful and fulfilling. “It’s a gift. It really was a dream. And I feel lucky, really lucky, to be here,” Haines shares, illustrating how her professional life intertwines with her values of family and community.
In conclusion, Sara Haines’ experience of transitioning from New York City to suburban New Jersey beautifully encapsulates the importance of family, community, and rediscovering life at a slower pace. Both her personal and professional lives showcase the balance she strives for, emphasizing that even amidst the glitz of television, it’s the simple pleasures—rooted in relationships and family traditions—that truly matter. Haines’ journey serves as a comforting reminder of the joys that come from embracing change and cultivating a community that feels like home.
