Stoop Stories welcomed June with excitement, spending an unforgettable afternoon with Elizabeth Sweetheart, Brooklyn’s renowned Green Lady. Joined by her husband Robert Rosenthal and their charming dog GeeGee, what began as a brief meeting turned into hours of laughter and inspiration. In their cozy green home in Carroll Gardens, Robert affectionately described Elizabeth’s life as “charmed,” reflecting on decades of effortless fulfillment and serendipity. We wanted to learn about Sweetheart’s journey from Nova Scotia to New York City in the sixties… “I looked all around Canada and there really wasn’t much. The government really supports artists now, but not then. I really wanted to be an artist,and I went to New York and got a job as an artist. I hitchhiked to New York and asked somebody on the street, ‘How do I get a job and how do I find an apartment?’ somebody told me to go to the New York Employment Agency. I met this woman, Susan, and we were friends for years. She said, ’What can you do?’ And I said, ‘Nothing, really.’ But I had my sketchbook, my ice skates, and my pillow. She said, ’Oh, I’m going to send you out on an interview right now.” I got a job right away, that day. I worked as an artist in a design studio. I stayed at the YMCA. Soon, I found an apartment on Perry Street. A few years later, I met Robert. Some years later, we moved to Brooklyn. The place had a great garden, a school nearby and it was affordable. I slowly went GREEN. My father was a surgeon and a gardener. I love nature and greenery. I love green because it makes me really happy! In 25 years, I don’t think I’ve ever experienced a bad reaction.” Elizabeth’s love for the color green has not only become her personal signature but has also brought joy to people across the globe. Her vibrant aesthetic has made her a unique and inspiring figure. During our time with her, we were blessed to spend time in her garden. The garden, much like Elizabeth herself, is a testament to the beauty and peace that can be cultivated through dedication and passion. 🗣️: @greenladyofbrooklyn 📝: Jennifer Peck 📸: Marj Kleinman