It is hard to believe this year is flying by so quickly and we are already into the second week of September.

We are moving rapidly into what many consider the most beautiful season we have in the region.

Some leaves have already started changing colors, and soon the landscape will transition from vibrant green to majestic orange and brown everywhere you look.

The temperatures will begin to cool off with fall and Halloween decorations taking the place of summer beach chairs.

Football is in full swing throughout the region, and sipping on hot chocolate will replace lemonade.

With all those factors, the region has many wonderful events to offer throughout the fall and winter months ahead.

Whether it is an Old Fashion Days, one of the many festivals or tours, haunted houses or tunnels, or a variety of holiday parades, there will certainly be plenty of opportunities for residents and visitors to enjoy the fall and winter months.

If you want to get away from all the hustle and bustle and relax, the area is very fortunate to have a myriad of destinations.

It can be for a getaway or to go hiking for a day or weekend to enjoy nature, the region offers many state parks and national forests that will fit your needs.

In Ohio, Lake Vesuvius within the Wayne National Forest in Lawrence County, Shawnee State Park just outside of Portsmouth, Lake White in Waverly, Hocking Hills in Jackson, Lake State Park in Oak Hill and the Scioto Trail in Chillicothe.

In Kentucky, Grayson Lake in Grayson, Carter Caves State Park in Olive Hill, Greenbo Lake State Park in Greenup. West Virginia offers Beech Fork State Park in Wayne and Kanawha State Forest in Charleston.

Whether it is attending one of these events, getting away to relax or showing your school spirit at a sporting event, the most important thing is to take the time to enjoy it with your family, friends and your community.

I know as a kid, I always thought I would like to live in a big city. As the years went by, however, I have changed my mind. While you never know where an opportunity may take you, Lawrence County and the surrounding region is a special place.

I know that most would not trade Lawrence County or the region that we have been blessed and able to call home for anyplace else.

 

Josh Morrison is the general manager at The Tribune. To reach him, call 740-532-1441 ext. 16 or by email at josh.morrison@irontontribune.com.