It seemed to happen overnight. First, “meteorological autumn” arrived, them the first day of fall appeared on the calendar.

Soon, a few trees began to sport spots of colors other than green. Then — seemingly out of nowhere — brilliant shades of red, orange and yellow began to appear everywhere. In addition to festive mums, pumpkins and cornstalks that started popping up, Mother Nature used a broad brush to paint the rolling hills and steep valleys of our region in all of the colors of fall.

In addition to noticing these changes during my daily commute, I had reason to drive out to St. Clairsville from Martins Ferry on Thursday evening. Along the way, despite an overcast sky, I couldn’t miss the fact that fall has truly arrived.

On that trip, I went to the Belmont County seat to take in the sights and sounds of the fourth annual Art Walk held in the downtown.

There certainly were some impressive things to see there. Artists include photographers, crafters, painters and more had a wide variety of pieces on display and for sale at spots along the sidewalks and even inside a few of the business district shops that stayed open late for the occasion.

I spotted one particular piece of needlework that really impressed me and tempted me to buy it. But, I hadn’t planned on shopping during the event — I was there to cover it for the newspaper, and a couple of my photos can be found on page D1 of today’s newspaper. So, rather than make a purchase, I took the artisan’s business card and decided to mull it over.

In addition, I saw painted portraits of people and animals, beautiful photographs of landscapes and other subjects in both color and black and white. Some folks offered earrings, necklaces and other pieces of jewelry, while others featured holiday decor at their stands. And, in front of the Belmont County Courthouse, Kirke’s Homemade Ice Cream provided tasty treats for hungry visitors.

All of the folks I encountered there — including Mayor Kathryn Thalman — were friendly and welcoming. Groups were chatting among themselves and greeting each new person who approached.

The event didn’t seem to draw a huge crowd while I was there, but I didn’t arrive until it was in its second hour. And while the streets were not crowded, there was a certain hustle and bustle in the area with plenty of people coming and going.

Unless we participate in community activities such as this one, it can be easy to forget some of the many things our region has to offer: beautiful landscapes, friendly residents, a great assortment of talent and much more.

This month is a great time to remind yourself of that. There is no shortage of things to do or places to see over the next few weeks. From cemetery tours to Halloween festivities for children and adults, fundraisers, athletic events and many more, opportunities to get out and appreciate our surroundings and the people who make up our communities abound.

I urge you to take advantage of them. Visit a local festival or attraction (or maybe just an old friend). Shop at a locally owned business you’ve never patronized before. Take a hike at Barkcamp State Park or ride a bike along a local trail. Or, take a drive through the newly colorful countryside. The possibilities are endless.