Now that the fair has come to an end, what do we do now? As much I as hate to admit that winter is quickly approaching – I can’t deny the inevitable. So what is there to do during this wonderful fall time before the cold & dreary weather hits us like a ton of bricks? My co-workers and I have compiled a list of 10 things to do in Spencer to curb your winter blues.
1. Sporting Events
Many of us would agree that this is the best time of year for attending sporting events: football, volleyball & cross country. Football happens to be one of my favorite sports to watch, especially high school games. The intensity and school pride displayed at these games is unlike anything I’ve experienced. One of the biggest games of the year is coming up on Friday – the Homecoming game! Spencer is set to kick-off against LeMars at 7:00 p.m. this Friday, followed by the Homecoming Dance. This is a great time to get out in the community and show your Tiger support. Be sure to wear your purple & gold!
For a complete listing of activities, click here.
2. Spencer Riverfront District Farmers Market
I don’t know about you, but I LOVE the taste of farm fresh food. Local farmers markets are just the place to purchase these goodies. Spencer Riverfront District Farmers Market, located at 24 West Park Street (Gary’s on the River), is the home to local agriculture, family farmers, bakers, artists and crafters from around the area. Every Saturday morning through October 26th, you can be sure to enjoy the fresh fruit, vegetables & meats of Iowa producers from 8 a.m.-12 p.m. Make certain you get your fill of these tasty treats before the season dwindles (especially the yummy sweet corn). Maybe if you’re lucky, you will get to see the newest member of our staff, Tina Sherrill-Range, stocking up on her squash supply. 
Be sure to say “hi!”
3. Outdoor Recreation
This is probably the one thing on this list that I will be sure to soak up most before the first snow hits. Going outside to enjoy the beautiful fall weather, sleeping with the windows open and having some friends over for a bonfire; not much can beat that. As for physical activity – live it up! The monotonous running on a treadmill will take over your life soon enough, so why not take advantage of the trials around town while you can? Whether you go for a late afternoon jog, take the kids on a nightly walk, or go for a quick bike ride, just get out there & enjoy the fresh air. You’ll be glad you did!
4. Have Lunch at The Bear
This was a universal favorite throughout the office, especially for Brian Dalziel. We even went there to celebrate Carrie’s second summer with us. Now, I’ve heard that the coffee & beer are pretty darn good, but I’ve only been there for lunch. I will speak from experience; lunch was AWESOME! In case you were wondering, I got the Curried Chicken Salad Sandwich. If you’re into that sort of thing, I’d highly recommend trying it – pretty tasty! The Bear is also a community gathering place, offering guests a quaint little spot to meet-up & chat. I’m sure if you ask nicely, Brian will take you out for a cup of coffee or quick bite to eat.
5. Stop at BonBon for Dessert
Everyone needs something sweet at the end of a yummy meal; why not stop at BonBon Frozen Yogurt after indulging at The Bear? Take a few short steps east & you could enjoy a delicious frozen treat. The modern, yet comfortable, shop is the home to self-serve froyo for you & your family’s taste-bud pleasure. BonBon prides itself on only serving yogurt that contains live & active cultures; yay for health benefits!
6. Arts on Grand
This one is compliments of Miss Kathy Evert, who enjoys the gallery shop and the numerous classes offered.
“The gallery shop features artwork by dozens of area artists. My Christmas shopping last year was greatly fulfilled thanks to AOG’s Christmas in the Gallery! They will do again this year, I believe. The art classes are affordable and accessible, including some very unique offerings. I took the Ukrainian egg painting class earlier this year; not many other places where I would have had that same opportunity!”
Sounds like a wonderful place to check out to get your “crafter” fix.
7. Play a Round of Golf
The opportunity to golf won’t last much longer. Get those last few holes in before it’s too late!Spencer Golf and Country Club is just the place to accomplish this task. The entire 18 hole course is lined with trees, accommodating golfers of all abilities with four sets of tee boxes. The course is also home to the Northwest Amateur Golf Tournament, where over 350 golfers come to participate each year in the only 72 hole amateur tournament in Iowa. Besides the gorgeous view overlooking the golf course, the clubhouse offers a full-service dining experience for all. Go get ‘em, Tiger! 
8. Get Pampered at Dermus
I’m sure that many of you can guess who suggested this one (if you know our staff). Yes, that’s right, Joanne Follon, everybody. She loves herself some Dermus! It seems like she comes into the office once a week and is fully refreshed after an appointment. Manicures, pedicures, facials – you name it, she has had it. Dermus refers to it’s employees as ”skin care specialists,” helping customers look for active ingredients that will help their skin care routine. I guess Jo has a good reason for loving her princess-like treatment.
9. Decorate the House!
As a new “home-owner,” nothing makes me more excited than getting to decorate for the changing seasons (as dorky as that sounds). I just recently set out pumpkins & gourds on my front steps to let all the neighbors know I’m in the holiday spirit. Guess what else is in season right now? Mums! Who doesn’t love a good mum every now and then? Go out and buy a few while they’re in season. It’s a great way to spruce up your deck while all your summer flowers are beginning to die off.
10. Drive on Grand Avenue Without Getting Stopped at ANY lights
This has to be my personal favorite. I try to do this every single day on my way to work. By no means am I suggesting you speed through town, but how good does it feel when you get to the end of the street and you didn’t get stopped at one red light? Maybe it’s the “city girl” coming out in me, or maybe I’m just a weirdo, but I LOVE when that happens. Chuckle away, but I know, deep down, you feel the same sense of accomplishment I do each time it happens. For those of you who haven’t experienced this wonderfulness, try to do it next time you’re driving through town. It’s quite the rush!
Thanks for stopping by! If you haven’t already, be sure to submit your Dream Big Grow Hereproposal and nominate a business or entrepreneur in the area worthy of some recognition for our annual Business Recognition Luncheon.
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- Alexa Guessford
