Thanksgiving in our home as empty nesters is filled with anticipation of welcoming our
children Stu and Remi, and getting that long-awaited hug that fills my heart in ways
words never can. For the past 28 years, we have looked forward to every Thanksgiving
not only within our family, but also in the way our Lake Oconee community celebrates
the season so beautifully. The annual Lighting at The Ritz transforms an ordinary
evening into pure magic as children’s eyes sparkle when the Christmas tree comes
alive. We reunite with friends, meet their extended families and see kids we have known
for years, many are now grown, reminding us just how quickly time moves. Parents and
grandparents point out the gingerbread house to their little ones while the excitement
builds for Breakfast with Santa.
The holiday spirit continues with the OPAS Falala Holiday Concert where music fills the
air with joy, and the ice-skating rink at The Ritz draws both the young and the young-at-
heart. These traditions, stitched together year after year, weave a tapestry of connection
reminding us how lucky we are to live in this community. While the world outside may
seem divided, here at the lake, we gather with different families, stories and lives,
finding joy in the same lights, songs, and traditions. And this is the true meaning of
Thanksgiving. The gratitude that is meant to be shared and the laughter that fills the
table where we count our blessings, not disagreements.
This year, as we carve the turkey and pass the stuffing, let us remember that
Thanksgiving is about the miracle that happens when we gather together no matter how
different we may be. What matters most are family, community and one simple
truth….that there is always room at the table.
“Gratitude turns what we have into enough.”
