In Focus

I know this year isn’t what anyone expected and a typical Thanksgiving gathering may not be happening for you. I know ours will be different. We usually invite friends over that may not have family nearby. That won’t be happening this year. It’s kind of depressing, but it is what it is.

Typically, after everyone goes home, we haul out the inside Christmas decor and start decorating. That will still be happening, but we may just throw a pizza in the oven. We’re not going to make a huge meal.

I believe I have 13 Christmas trees now. What can I say? I like Christmas trees. We all need something right now that’s bright and cheery and makes us happy.

Many people are struggling thanks to the pandemic, and may not be able to afford to make their family a nice Thanksgiving meal. Most of the community Thanksgiving dinner events were canceled. Please check on your neighbors and see if they need anything. You don’t have to buy an expensive turkey or spend a lot. Maybe just drop by with a frozen pie or green bean casserole or if you are cooking and have plenty of leftovers maybe you could make a plate to-go for someone living alone. It may help someone in need or it may be just the thing someone needs to lift their spirits.

If money is tight for your family, be sure to check the local food shelf as they may have some holiday items you could use.

I’ve seen various “Thankful” challenges online. You’re supposed to post something daily through the month about what you are thankful for.

Here is my thankful post: I am thankful for much right now. I am thankful for those working the front lines of the pandemic, risking exposure. I am thankful for the kind, considerate people trying to help others struggling. I am thankful to have a meaningful job. I am extremely thankful to the community...without you, I wouldn’t have a job right now. I am thankful for your trust and for informing me of events and story ideas. I receive many calls, texts, emails and messages making me aware of local happenings. We can’t write a story or cover an event if we don’t know about it. I also appreciate your help when I can’t attend an event...sending pictures and contact information...so we can fill our newspaper with all the local happenings. I’m grateful for your understanding when I can’t attend a function as I am only one person.

I want to say thank you for letting me tell your stories and for your continued support.

And on one last thankful note...thank you for your kind comments about the light show, and for your donations to the food shelf.

If all goes according to plan, the Christmas show will commence on Thanksgiving night. We will continue to raise funds for the Bertha Community Food Shelf.

Please don’t focus on the pandemic this Thanksgiving...focus on all that you are thankful for.

Happy Thanksgiving everyone!