The Art of Living Intentionally: A Visit with Jery Huntley
There’s something profoundly inspiring about people who live their lives as if every moment is a canvas. Jery Huntley is one of those rare individuals. When I recently visited her in Keene Valley, I wasn’t just stepping into a physical space—I was entering a world where every object, every conversation, and every decision seemed to carry a deeper meaning.
Jery’s home, perched on a hill overlooking the valley, is more than a house; it’s a living archive of stories. From the rocking chair gifted by the daughter of an Olympic bobsledder to the custom-built Adirondack furniture, every piece has a history. What makes this particularly fascinating is how Jery’s space reflects her philosophy: life isn’t about accumulating things but about curating experiences and connections.
A Nonprofit with a Purpose
Jery is the founder of OurStoryBridge, a nonprofit that feels like an extension of her own storytelling ethos. Her latest initiative, OurStoryBridge Listens, aims to capture the voices of everyday Americans. Personally, I think this project is a brilliant reminder of how often we overlook the richness of ordinary lives. In a world obsessed with celebrity narratives, Jery’s work elevates the untold stories that shape communities.
What many people don’t realize is that initiatives like these aren’t just about preserving history—they’re about fostering empathy. By listening to others, we bridge divides and humanize experiences that might otherwise remain invisible. Jery’s dedication to this cause isn’t just professional; it’s deeply personal, rooted in her belief that every voice matters.
A Life in Motion
At 76, Jery is training for her second HYROX competition, a grueling physical challenge that involves running and functional workouts. This raises a deeper question: What drives someone at her age to push their limits? In my opinion, it’s not just about physical fitness but about a mindset that refuses to be confined by societal expectations of aging.
If you take a step back and think about it, Jery’s approach to life is a masterclass in intentionality. Whether it’s building a nonprofit, training for a competition, or designing a home that tells a story, she’s constantly challenging the status quo. This isn’t just about staying active—it’s about staying relevant, curious, and engaged with the world.
The Power of Place
Keene Valley itself feels like a character in Jery’s story. The expansive views of green mountains, the high wooden ceilings of her cabin—these elements aren’t just aesthetic choices. They’re a reflection of her values: openness, connection to nature, and a sense of community.
A detail that I find especially interesting is how Jery’s home doubles as a workspace for her interns and collaborators. It’s not just a retreat; it’s a hub of creativity and productivity. This blurring of boundaries between personal and professional spaces is something I’ve noticed in many innovative thinkers. It suggests that inspiration doesn’t happen in isolation—it thrives in environments that encourage collaboration and spontaneity.
What This Really Suggests
Jery Huntley’s life is a testament to the idea that living intentionally isn’t about grand gestures but about the choices we make every day. From the stories we choose to amplify to the challenges we embrace, every decision shapes our legacy.
What this really suggests is that we all have the power to live more meaningfully. It’s not about having a grand piano or a mountain view—it’s about infusing our lives with purpose and authenticity. Jery’s story isn’t just inspiring; it’s a call to action.
As I left her kitchen, where I’d been invited to work amidst the scent of fresh greens and the hum of conversation, I couldn’t help but reflect on the day. Jery Huntley isn’t just building a nonprofit or training for a competition—she’s crafting a life that’s as rich and multifaceted as the stories she collects. And in doing so, she’s reminding us all that the most extraordinary lives are often the ones lived with the simplest, most intentional choices.
