There’s a new shopping option for residents of Belmont County.

A new Love’s Travel Stops and Country Store opened just off Interstate 70 at exit 208 — Belmont/Morristown — a few days ago.

I never imagined how popular a place I thought of as a gas station and truck stop would be. Love’s played it smart, setting fuel prices during its opening days considerably lower than those of surrounding stores. That got people to its pumps, then they went walking through the doors to the store.

My husband, Mike, and I were among the local residents who decided to stop and explore the new location. In addition to filling up our vehicles for a more affordable price, we wanted to see just what the place — which features a Hardee’s and a Godfather’s Pizza — had to offer.

Once we were inside, we found the brightly lit shelves and display cases just a tad overwhelming. Everything was so bright it was constantly catching your eye and drawing your attention away from what you were looking for. But if it was a snack or a sweet or even a more substantial meal for the road, you could probably find it.

The drink selection is quite large as well, with the bottled water selection alone rather surprising. In many cases, the labels on those bottles were for brands I had never seen before in person.

One thing we noticed did surprise us — the store doesn’t sell any alcohol or beer, and it doesn’t look as if it has plans to do so.

Overall, the atmosphere is clean, inviting and friendly.

While I don’t expect to be a frequent customer of the shop, it is nice to know there are additional options available so close to home. A quick stop to pick up pizza some evening, for instance, could be quite convenient.

It’s certainly a big change from my high school days when those of us at Union Local could stop at one of two small gas stations or the family-owned Schleppe’s restaurant to grab a bite to eat ot something to drink before band or football practice.

If you’re looking for a cheap fill-up or some products you don’t see locally, stop and check Love’s out.