I've been here my entire life and just made the decision to purchase a 25+ year home and raise a family.
One thing you'll notice most about CT natives, they love to hate their state
It's quite nice as you have mountainous roads to the northwest, beach to the south, fabulous foliage accompanied by a whole mess of fall related things going on in towns all over.
AAAAAnndd, don't forget, Lime Rock and Thompson Speedway
I'm 20mins from Meriden, pm me, I'd be glad to grab a coffee once you're in and settled.