Hi, my name is… Amy Hughes.

I’ve lived in North Scottsdale for 25 years and I love it because… Of the beauty of the mountains, and the ability to hike, bike, and walk right out the front door. We are so fortunate to live here and raise our children in this beautiful part of the world.

A typical day in my life includes… Working from home gives me the opportunity to have a flexible day so I can design my day anyway I want. I am a Director of Regional Sales for a data center services company based in Dallas, Texas. I am responsible for developing brand new accounts and driving expansion across existing accounts. I travel around the West visiting clients and prospects.

My family… My husband Randy and I enjoy outdoor adventures: skiing, hiking, biking, camping and off-roading in our Jeep. We will be growing our family soon with the addition of a yellow lab that we plan on naming Dakota. Our children are all grown up and living their best lives.

One thing I cannot live without is… The outdoors and nature and the ability to access so many different terrains here in Arizona, without the long drive. Hiking, biking, and off-roading give us a way to connect that feels authentic and familiar and is an incredibly special gift that our Mother Earth gives us.

My favorite movie I could never get tired of watching and why… Pretty Women because it is a great love story and proof that it does not matter where you came from, it is where you are going.

When I was younger, I wanted to be… A vet because I love all animals, especially horses. I hope to own my own horse in the short-term future and enjoy riding and horse camping with my “horse girls.”

The song I would sing at Karaoke night is… I would sing “Country Roads,” by John Denver, as it reminds me of my home in Michigan. John Denver is one of my all-time favorite storytellers.

The one person who motivates me is… My husband Randy motivates me every day to smile, be nice, and reach for more. He reminds me that I don’t have anything to prove to anyone else other than myself. It all starts with you. Stop searching for validation from other sources and focus inward on yourself. Approval from others isn’t needed, but true love of self is an absolute necessity. Accept and love yourself unconditionally.

The last thing that made me laugh out loud was… Watching animals “talk” on Tik Tok. It is addicting and so fun but a big waste of time.
The perfect day would be… Sailing on a 42-foot sailboat in the British Virgin Islands. We sailed three times there and it is beautiful. The snorkeling, diving and local fare is so colorful and relaxing.

My favorite local nonprofit is… Foothills Animal Rescue Boutique in North Scottsdale as all the items that are donated help to save and support animals in need. The thrift store takes in all donations and sells them to the public so the monies can be put toward animals that need medical attention or adopted.

My life… Is good, full of joy, hope, and positivity. Nature gives us a large perspective; large enough where all our own versions look small. The version that nature provides helps wipe our worries. Find your nature and find your new perspective.

The best gift I’ve ever received was… I received a cross necklace from my husband that reminds me to always smile, be grateful, and count your blessings.

My dream vacation would be to… Maui, Hawaii. We are saving up to go there for our 20th anniversary and plan on snorkeling, scuba diving, hiking, jumping off waterfalls, and island hopping.

The best piece of advice I’ve ever received… Make peace with your broken pieces.