What I Did This Summer

Finding Your Fort Madison article for Pen City Current

An insider’s guide to stories, events, and fun.

As school backpacks start replacing beach towels, I can’t help but think back to “what I did this summer.” Around here, it was a season packed with fairs, festivals, and fun. My family and I made the most of warm days swimming, riding bikes, and spending evenings in the backyard grilling, bouncing on the trampoline, and gathering around bonfires with friends.

I found my green thumb wandering through local greenhouses, planting flowers and filling the yard with color—because nothing says “welcome” quite like a cheerful garden. Of course, summer also brought its fair share of treats: salty sweet corn, juicy watermelon, and more than my share of corn dogs and funnel cakes from community festivals.

My Green Thumb

Thanks to our local green houses, the yard was beautiful and ready for summer parties.

One favorite memory was biking at dusk with my son along the riverfront, pausing to watch boats glide by while dodging geese who clearly think they own the path. Another highlight was introducing my grandson to his very first taste of summer ice cream after playing outside—sticky, chocolaty smile and all.

Summer Ice Cream

Oreo ice cream sandwich for the win!

It may still feel like summer, but with leaves beginning to fall and cicadas buzzing their nightly chorus, it’s time to trade swimsuits for hoodies. September is near, and so is Heritage Month—so mark your calendars for the Tri State Rodeo, Mexican Fiesta, PorchFest, Fall Farm Activities, and River & Rail Weekend. See you out there!