By Emily Umbdenstock
And suddenly you know: It’s time to
start something new and trust the
magic of new beginnings.
-Meister Eckhart
Well, friends, it’s been a year…and it’s hard for me to believe, even as I write this, that I am a newbie no longer! One year in Connecticut in the books, folks…does this officially make me a New Canaanite?!? I’m going to say an emphatic Yes…yes it does! In my very first column I voiced that our decision to move here was either going to be a total success or an epic failure, and I am so happy (and let’s face it… totally relieved) to report that our roll of the dice has led to the former outcome rather than the latter. As I reflect back on the last 365 days, however, the overwhelming emotion exuding from my heart is pride…I’m am so, so very proud of my family…I mean, we did it, friends! We took a leap of faith and embarked on a new adventure…optimistic about life here, yes, but, nevertheless, unsure of the consequences our move might have.
The Umbdenstocks are living proof that happiness doesn’t have just one address, and that, sometimes, our lives need to be completely shaken up, changed, and rearranged to land us in the place we are truly meant to be. However, moving to a new state has forced me to reevaluate the things I once took for granted and appreciate them even more. I am and forever will be a Jersey girl, and I’m not certain that I will ever feel completely at home again because a part of my heart will always be there. And that, my friends, is a price I’m willing to pay for the richness of knowing and loving people in more than one place. Moving to a new area is not just about relocating; it’s about beginning a new chapter in your life without forgetting about the past.
I am so very grateful for the community I have built thus far here in New Canaan. I’ve managed to establish such deep friendships already, and I honestly can’t remember my life without these beautiful souls in it. I often try to explain the enchantment of New Canaan to those who do not live here, and, neighbors, it is virtually impossible. How can I possibly adequately describe the magic of the people, the charm of the town and the strength of this community?!? The truth is, I can’t…for the only way to fully understand its mystique is to be here fully immersed in it. Thank you, New Canaan, for teaching me to jump in with both feet and showing me that the best is always yet to come. And, also, for reaffirming the notion that if we were meant to simply stay in one place, we would have been born with roots instead of feet. Sometimes, we need to move (both literally and figuratively) in order to grow and discover new possibilities
I am not sure exactly what professional avenue I will take next, but, as a writer and self-professed over-sharer, I hope to be able to experience my journey with you in one way or another. So, stay tuned friends, only time will tell!
And if I can leave you with one piece of wisdom that I have gained through this experience, it’s to embrace new changes even if it makes you feel anxious. Trust in yourself and in the timing of life…challenge yourself and your capabilities…and watch yourself succeed. Neighbors, I encourage you to welcome new beginnings and have faith that everything happens for a reason. In short, take the risk or lose the chance. After all, we may not have it all together, but together we most certainly have it all!
I’ll leave you with one of my favorite quotes by Louisa May Alcott: I make so many beginnings there never will be an end. Until next time, New Canaan…
Emily Umbdenstock received her BA in from Georgetown and her MA in Health and Behavior Studies from Columbia University Teachers College. When she isn’t “momming” her three children, she works as a freelance copy editor and an essay editor for college applications. A New Jersey native, Emily relocated to New Canaan last June.
