Welcome to Our Table: Sharing the Blessings of the Season

Thanksgiving means to many family gatherings, activities, and Thanksgiving weekend events. To many, it is more than turkey dinner and football. It is a holiday that reminds us of our blessings and all we are thankful for. At my house, before Thanksgiving dinner, everyone around the dinner table says what he or she is thankful for. Most say family, friends, health and of course the good food.

Although 2020 has been a difficult year for us all, we still have much to be grateful for. Stop for a moment; clear your mind; now think, what are you thankful for right now? If you were sitting at my table, what would you say? It can be as simple as that fresh cup of coffee you had first thing this morning to your family, friends, and good health.

I have said that the pandemic has reminded us that “you don’t’ know what you have until it’s gone”. And yes, we missed our many events this year. But despite that, we still have so many places and things that I am so thankful for.

I am thankful for the beautiful landscape of Belmont County. I invite you to visit one of our many parks and enjoy the fall foliage. Or take a drive on one of our scenic byways. Sit by the Ohio River or by the lake at Barkcamp or Zion. I am so thankful that I live in an area where we can enjoy the colors of Autumn.

I am also thankful for the communities in Belmont County. When driving down our Main Streets, you feel the charm and kindness that each community in Belmont County offers. It is not uncommon to hear someone yell “Hi” from across the way to you or offer a wave as you drive along the street. I love to see the groups that get together each morning for coffee discussing the happenings in the area and the shop owners opening their stores and displaying their sandwich boards that advertise their unique items that are waiting to be purchased. I am also thankful for the “shop local” support those entrepreneurs receive.

So, this month, as we celebrate the Thanksgiving holiday, acknowledge what we have and be thankful.

-Barb Ballint