Where in the World? New Canaan, Connecticut.

Updated: Apr 30, 2020

NEW CANAAN, CONNECTICUT, USA

41.14832° N, -73.49328° E

Exploring New Canaan, Connecticut with Linda.

Introduction

As a pastor and an EMT (Emergency Medical Technician having volunteered 7 years at the local ambulance service), I have had the privilege to serve in people's spiritual, emotional, and physical trauma. I get to see a side of New Canaan that perhaps not all experience. Despite its manicured lawns and large mansion size houses that appear all pristine and put together, the town's greatest asset takes more than a passing visit. Its citizens make New Canaan special. They are vulnerable. They can be reserved and distant. Yet, if you take a moment to look not as a visitor, you see its' real beauty: men drinking coffee at Zumbachs smoozing over local news, or the high schooler dressed in his red and black New Canaan Rams shirt running late for practice. Life took a screeching turn with CoVid. Local officials took quick action and social distancing became the new norm. Many volunteers came out to deliver groceries to the most vulnerable, our senior citizens. It is in the midst of this crisis that the town nickname "Next Station to Heaven" richly displays moments of grace and mercy.

1. So firstly, where do you live, and how long have you lived here?

I live in New Canaan, Connecticut which is about 50 miles northwest of New York City, (roughly an hour+ commute by train). We’ve lived here for about 32 years, with 5 years in the middle on assignment living overseas in Tokyo, Japan. Many people commute into NYC for work, but live in New Canaan to raise families, own a bit of a backyard and have access to a great school system.

2. Has the current Coronavirus pandemic affected your life here, and if so in what ways?

It is mandatory to wear masks in public settings, maintain social distance and all parks, schools and

unnecessary businesses have been shut down to curtail the spread of the virus. We’ve been in lockdown now for approximately 7 weeks. We get daily updates by phone on what the status is and currently our town has 152 positive cases with our loss of life of 21. The town has a population of about 19,000. The state of Connecticut has had 17,550 confirmed cases and 1,086 deaths so far. They are trying to provide disposable face masks to all New Canaan residents by distribution this week. It is eerie to see the streets empty and void of people. The town has tried to help the children in grades K-4 that can’t have birthday parties by having surprise birthday drive-bys from police, fire and ems vehicles, depending on availability. Trying to bring some cheer, during these trying times is what makes this town special.

3.Once restrictions/ any quarantine rules lift, what is the thing you most look forward to doing here?

Getting back into a routine of doing Zumba at the local YMCA, taking a walk in Wayeney Park. It’s not my nature to have a sedentary lifestyle. Grabbing coffee with friends in town, yes!!!

4. In more normal times, what would you say is the best thing about living here? Likewise, is there anything you would change?

New Canaan is a safe suburban town that is close to NYC, but far enough to have access to bike trails, recreational hikes and rural scenery as well. It is a wealthy town and if there was anything I would change; it would be to have more affordable restaurants. Food is pricey.

5. A friend comes to visit here for the first time and wants to discover the best of what your location has to offer...what is your itinerary for the day?

Breakfast grab the “New Canaan Special” at Tony’s Deli (Bacon, Egg and Cheese with Potato Cones on an English muffin) and go next door to Zumbach’s for coffee (beans are roasted fresh there and they have a great variety of options!). Go for a stroll through town and Waveny Park. Rosie’s downtown for lunch if you are able to get seating. Make reservations beforehand and see Philip Johnson’s Glass house.

Beautiful drives heading northbound out of Main St on Rt 124, drive down West Rd, there are many beautiful houses and can detour towards Grace Farms, which is free admission. After that, head south on Rt 123 back towards town. Give a holler, you can stop by my house for a cup of tea or coffee 😊

Thank you so much Linda for providing us with a snapshot of your town, and for agreeing to answer my nosy questions!