An Interview with Anne Snow
Executive Director, Children’s Museum of La Crosse, Inc.
“People of the Driftless”
What is your best childhood memory?
When I was growing up we would drive through La Crosse on the way from Illinois to Minnesota to visit my grandparents. I was in awe of the icicles that hang along the bluff by La Crescent. We would beg my dad to drive slowly so we could look at them!
If you had a chance for a “do-over” in life, what would you do differently?
I’d spend more time with my dad. He ended up with Alzheimers and it seemed like I blinked and he went from the
dad I knew to my dad with the disease. You never know how life is going to go, so make the memories today.
What are you most proud of?
My girls. They are good people.
What is your favorite music, or What ‘one’ song do you think a person should listen to at least once?
I love country music. My dad owned a country radio station so it’s what I grew up on. Great lyrics in country music. “I hope you dance”, or “Live like you were dying”, same themes. Be nice, make memories.
If you could travel anywhere, where would you go and why?
Ireland. I saw a slide show years ago about Ireland and the images stuck with me!
If you could only keep three possessions, what would they be?
SOOOO tough! 1. My mom’s journal. She started it when she was diagnosed with cancer and she wrote for almost two years. Her thoughts are words to live by. 2. A bracelet my father gave my mother for an early anniversary because it has a great story, and 3. My wedding ring, as a reminder of the importance of love and commitment (in marriage, but in general too). I’m going with the assumption that my photos will still all be on the cloud somewhere!
What teacher in school made the most impact on you and why?
Mrs. Wilson, second grade, in Evanston, Illinois. Mrs. Wilson was smart, funny and very nice. I admired her more than anyone, and later in life, I realized my positive relationship with her, at an early age, probably helped shape my feelings about diversity.
What was one of your most defining moments in life?
My mother’s death when I was 30. It was crushing. It was a big wake up call that life is short.
How do you spend your free-time?
I run and walk some. I volunteer a little. I serve on a couple of boards. We have a small farm with a few horses so I help with chores. We travel when we get the chance, and spend time with friends and family as often as possible.
What are your favorite reads and why?
Favorite book, “The Art of Racing in the Rain”. I do watch Netflix and I listen to Podcasts every day!
What was your most embarrassing moment?
I wore two different shoes to meet with a donor and didn’t realize until I saw her looking at my feet!
If you could witness any event of the past, present, or future, what would it be?
I’d like to be at my parent’s wedding to see and hear them along with my grandparents and great aunts and uncles.
What is a skill you’d like to learn and why?
I’d love to learn another language because I think it’s wonderful to be able to communicate with more people.
What does a perfect day look like to you?
Coffee in the kitchen with my husband, maybe a drive along the Mississippi to the New Albin Meat Locker and then grilling out with friends and family.
If you were to tell a friend to come and visit the Driftless Area, and they ask “Why” … what would you tell them?
“Trust me, there are a lot of wonderful places in the world and THIS IS ONE OF THE BEST! I’ve lived in a lot of places, and there is something special about this area – you can feel it!”
Anne Snow
Executive Director – Children’s Museum of La Crosse, Inc.
608-784-2652
2021-03-21