Heather and I made a decision to move up to Essex, NY during the fall of 2020. The beauty of the region and the draw of Lake Champlain were self-evident and compelling. Essex is a charming looking town, and the piece of property that we purchased seemed fabulous. What we couldn’t have imagined in our wildest dreams is how in a few short years we have been embraced by the loving arms of such a special community. My feelings of gratitude overwhelm me daily right now. The Essex community really really cares for each other.

Three weeks ago, I had a couple falls and seriously injured both my legs. The experience has revealed to me the amazing character and nature of our small community.  The eight friends who lifted me into the ambulance helped relieve the shock and pain. Over 40 texts, emails, and phone calls I received within 48 hours of being in the hospital offered thoughts and prayers as well as practical help for me and for Heather. That week, a crew came to our barn and did an overhaul with Heather to make it possible for me to return and recover. As I sat in the hospital for those two weeks struggling to plan and figure out how I would be able to return to life with some normalcy, I knew that I wouldn’t be alone.

Since returning home to dozens of cards, a full month of meals on the meal train, and a stream of thoughtful caring visitors, I know that Heather and I have found our home for our family. Essex has so much support through the kindness and compassion of individuals and groups that serve the community like Fire/EMS, St. John’s, the Community Church, Essex Initiatives, ECF, and the Farming community. We are so very grateful and look forward to contributing however we can to the fabric of this very special place in the world.