It only appears quiet, because most of the time we're already involved in trials, TFs, instanced missions so the zones look less populated.
I suggest you hop into one of Protector's global chat channel such as Protector Vigilance (details in my sig) to get into the action, look around for familiar faces/names, etc.
Welcome back!
NB - if you and your wife would like some help getting back into the flow of things, consider adding the "N P C" global channel to your chat tab (Mentor Project link in my sig). There should also be a number of people offering their services as helpers. They're identified with the helper title.
Also, Paragon Wiki is your friend. 
█ Players Guide to the Cities
Welcome back
Don Dada lvl50 Emp/Dark Def-Protector
Radufett lvl50 Merc/Drk Msma MM
@Don Dada http://www.myspace.com/num1_don_gorgon
Welcome back
I am taking my sig to MWO and MWT. Let them wonder what it means.
Welcome back! Lots of changes over the last 5 years.
Thanks for the welcoming back, yeah I've noticed a lot has changed. Apparently need to get Going Rogue soon. Still relearning some of the old stuff as well.
After 5 years away... decided to come back and see how CoH is doing. Server seems a little more quiet then I remember but I see some familiar people still around. Got my wife to play now as well. Anyway hope to see everyone in game. And if you don't remember me then maybe it's for the best lol.