On the Mayor’s Mind

Shoreline Mayor Shari Winstead

On the Mayor’s Mind

By Shoreline Mayor Shari Winstead

Spring is here! And everyone seems to be enjoying a bit of Spring fever. Bits of color are decorating our yards and the Shoreline Ponies will soon have daffodils dancing at their feet! 

A couple of weeks ago, on one of those blue-sky, surprisingly warm afternoons, I decided to go for a run. I live pretty close to the Interurban Trail, so my run is pretty much always the same. Let me first note that for me, a “run” is really a jog, interspersed with walking. The goal is to breathe fresh air, wake up my heart, and break a sweat. 

So there I was, listening to some upbeat music (“Happy” is my new fave!) and feeling great about the sun shining in my face, when another runner (a tall man, actually “running”) approaches me, and holds up his hand to give me a “high five”! What?! This was awesome! It was somewhat hard to believe that our common experience of being outside and using the Interurban Trail had created a connection worthy of a high five. I didn’t know him, and I’m sure he didn’t know me, (because I rarely look like my official photo!) But the high five and his smile said it all, “isn’t it great to be outside, and moving our bodies!” 

A former gym teacher used to say, “be grateful you’re able”. And I am truly grateful that I can be physically active, and grateful to live in an amazing city with the Interurban Trail. I’m especially grateful for fellow citizens with a good attitude and who are happy to share a smile and a high five. 

So it’s time to come out of winter hybernation, get reacquainted with our neighbors, and take our activities outside. Shoreline is kicking off May with a new challenge - the Million Step Challenge at Paramount Park! Check out the website and lace up your sneakers! And once again in June we will be climbing the stairs at Saltwater Park, this time with a goal of climbing 3 Million Stairs! 

If you want more information about the recreational happenings in Shoreline, check out the calendar of events or subscribe to Shoreline’s Park & Rec Department e-news.

And in case you need a little extra inspiration, the latest wellness research tells us that “sitting is the new smoking.” Shocking, hu? For people who sit most of the day, their risk of heart attack is about the same as smoking.

There is all kinds of data out there about how sitting is bad for your body. I realize it is impossible to stop sitting, but there are ways we can all sit less. Check out this article for the research, and more information and a few tips on how to get in a few more steps!