Citizen Wausau

Six Questions and an Election »

by Cheryl Mathis on August 29th, 2008

I think the Presidential election this year is far more poignant for me now that I have children. Just knowing that there will either be a black president or a female vice president is thrilling. My kids hopefully won’t ever really understand why our country was so unwilling for so long to consider such a thing (except for educational purposes). History is being made, no matter which party line you fall behind. Forget the serious political talk… bring on the questions! This week’s edition is a collaborative effort between Dino and myself.

1. Do you ever dabble in the creative arts to relieve stress? Lately since I have an edict from my doctor that I need to avoid tension, I’ve been buying fuzzy posters and paint-by-numbers. I have no idea what to do with the finished products, but I find it very relaxing to make beautiful pictures with very little talent. What do you do in that realm, if anything?

2. Is it totally unnatural for me to be thinking about how much fun this winter will be? This summer was practically a bust for me. Because I was working part-time, I didn’t do as many special activities with the kids. No pool, no Splash Pad, very few sandcastles. Now my sights are set on winter, and I’m looking forward to sledding, nordic skiing, and the glory of swimming in a heated pool at the Y while the snow is gently falling outside. What are you looking forward to? I’m pretty sure my husband is looking forward to the first winter since acquiring a snow blower.

3. And now an easy question from the peanut gallery, population: Cheryl. What’s your favorite movie of the summer? Did you see something new or fall back in love with an old favorite? Based on your responses, I promise to watch at least two of your suggestions.

4. How aware of design are you?  My friend Jason sent me an article about how the font at the closing of a show did not match the opening font.  Do you notice things like that?  I think it translates to everything.  I have a friend who has a house that everything in it seem “On purpose” and I so love their house.
5. Did you go to Blues Fest?  What did you think?

6.  Did you try to go to Uptown Grill before it closed?

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Sidewalks, Parks and the YMCA »

by Cheryl Mathis on August 29th, 2008

If you’re like me, you’re always looking for a kick in the rear to get in another exercise. On the long list of priorities, exercising doesn’t seem as pressing as washing last week’s dishes.

Keep your eyes open, and you might get that kick. Recently, I was kicked when I started noticing how many of my fellow citizens are including exercise as a regular part of their day. Whether it’s the nightly dog walk or even the sweat-inducing jog, my neighbors are out there on the sidewalks, in the parks and going in and out of the Y. I applaud them.

If you live in town like I do, you know about all the community spaces. I get so inspired when I see those spaces used for a good workout. After all, what else should it be used for? We are a community of people, all struggling with something, and together we can support each other with our goals, even if it’s just an encouraging wave and friendly smile to someone who is trying to include fitness in one’s daily life.

I dare you to keep your eyes open this next week and count how many people you see using our community spaces to exercise, and I dare you to join them.

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