"Do we stay in our house full of treasured memories that has become larger than we need? Or look for something more suitable (and manageable) for the next chapter in our lives?" Farrell said. "It was a difficult dilemma but ultimately we chose the most appropriate path for our needs - a smaller house on a larger piece of land that happens to be in the neighboring community of Easton. It is a happy compromise for us because we are still so close to our friends and colleagues in Westport and remain in beautiful Fairfield County."
Farrell said that the house she purchased in Easton has four acres and a barn, with a house that is smaller than the one she lived in for 21 years and has outgrown.
Farrell lived in Westport for 50 years. She first came to Westport with her family at the age of 3, and later bought her first home in 1982 with her husband.
"When we bought our first house, my husband Win and I were so pleased to become full fledged members of this community and to raise our daughters Hilary and Margaret here," Farrell said. "We feel we have given them the best start in life imaginable. They have attended wonderful schools and participated in numerous community-based activities and programs - all in a safe and nurturing environment. Along the way, Win and I felt fortunate to become involved in so many wonderful volunteer organizations."
Farrell said that as a little girl growing up in Westport, never in her wildest dreams did she imagine she would be First Selectwoman. "For one thing, there had been no women in that role yet!" she said.
Reflecting on the move, Farrell said, "It's certainly not goodbye to Westport. My connection to the town remains indelibly strong. How could it not?"
Farrell, a Democrat, was a popular first Selectwoman in Westport for two terms. She twice fought an unsuccessful but bruising campaign for United States Congress against Christopher Shays, and recently was appointed by President Bush for a position as a director of the Export-Import Bank of the United States. She plans to spend her work days in Washington, alongside her husband, who also works in the capital city, and plans to return to Fairfield County on weekends.