Five Questions With… Des Moines Girl

Posted on November 19, 2007 in Five Questions by DM

Five Questions With… is a series on DMweblife highlighting Des Moines area bloggers and their blogs! This edition features “Des Moines Girl,” a.k.a. “Cookie” - a mom with a clowning soul!

1. What’s the focus of your blog?
I started my blog as a creative outlet. I called it Des Moines 360 because I wanted to anchor it geographically but still be free to write about anything I wanted. So I really don’t have a focus - I write about whatever interests me.

2. What aspect of blogging do you enjoy the most?
I like writing. I write for a living but I’m always writing for other people. My blog lets me write for me and my friends. I especially like to write things that make people laugh.

3. What’s an activity besides blogging that you can’t live without?
A year ago, I started clowning. I still have a lot to learn (gags, magic, balloon twisting). It’s wonderful for stress relief! I’ve enjoyed volunteer clowning at hospitals and other charity events. It makes me feel good to see other people smile!

4. What’s the best advice - personal or professional - you’ve ever received?
Hmmm…probably, “Do what you love and the money will follow.” The money part hasn’t really worked out for me yet…but I still have hope!

5. What’s something you’ve accomplished in the past five years that you are particularly proud of?
I have two beautiful children, a great marriage (9 years) and an adoring husband! Don’t think that doesn’t take work!

And the Secret Sixth question I asked Des Moines Girl after reading her initial answers to the five questions:

6. Tell me a little more about how you go about developing a clowning “persona.” Do you dress as the same clown each time, and do you feel a specific persona evolving? If so - tell me about “you as a clown”!
My clown name is “Cookie.” My daughter helped pick out my name. I am very new to clowning (only one year) so I am still developing my clown character. My make up and costume have changed very little - only a few minor tweaks. Putting the same outfit on every time gives me confidence and allows me to concentrate on other things (magic, balloons and general silliness).

Some clowns write long detailed descriptions of their clown characters. My character is simple. She likes to play, have fun and make other people laugh. She’s spontaneous and outgoing. She doesn’t get embarassed if she makes a mistake - she laughs it off and goes on. She doesn’t get moody or have bad days. She is always upbeat and happy and isn’t weighed down by life’s worries. In some ways, my clown is who I wish I could be all the time.

Everyone should get in touch with their inner clown!

Des Moines-area bloggers: to be considered for this feature, just drop me an email with your name, location, and blog address, and answers to the first five questions I’ve asked here. I’ll reply with your “Secret Sixth Question”!

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