-Isms: Views on life in rural America

I’m not sure who is responsible for this quote, but I saw it last week and found it appropriate: “I have to find hobbies that don’t include my debit card.” I’m sure Scott would echo the sentiment.

After viewing a video about a woman who tied her identity (and self-worth) to her lack of hobbies, I thought about how our hobbies affect our lives. The woman said she used to be a voracious reader but can’t find time now. Finding new wines to taste-test was a hobby, now she finds it boring. Nothing brings joy.

How sad.

A hobby is defined as “a pursuit outside one’s regular occupation engaged in especially for relaxation.” I’ve read everyone should have five hobbies to bring balance and happiness to one’s life.

The creative hobby. I have four drawers filled with scrapbooking paper and markers, colored pencils and punches, stamps and inks. For a couple years, I was into bullet journaling and decorative planners, which is basically scrapbooking on a calendar Page. Right now, I’m into creating journals out of old children’s books. It’s a good thing I can use my formerly-purchased journal supplies. Debit card definitely required.

The hobby to learn. I have a bookcase filled with books and, typically, I think reading is a solid hobby. It builds vocabulary and critical thinking. Luckily, I’ve found time to read the majority of books gracing the bookcase, so money well spent.

The socializing hobby. If you know me at all, you know I like wine and craft beer. Nothing beats a leisurely drive to check out a new winery or brewery. We’ve been lucky and have met a lot of interesting individuals on our trek for the perfect pinot grigio and pale ale. This hobby definitely requires a debit card.

The shape-up hobby. BS - before Scott - Courtney and I took kickboxing classes. Several friends and I learned how to belly dance at the Norfolk Arts Center. I took country dance lessons with a friend’s family so we could glide across the dance floor at her brother’s wedding. These are more “have fun and get some exercise” hobbies, temporary, but fun. An occasional debit card purchase required.

The hobby that makes fast cash. Not sure if my thrifting habit is hobby or side gig. Scott would say this hobby has taken over my “closet.” I say it’s the thrill of the hunt. You never know what you’ll find. A little debit card action turns into an incoming pile of cash.

Having a hobby helps create more time for the enjoyable tasks instead of focusing on work all the time. A hobby creates a flow for focus. Hobbies introduce you to new people and offer a boost to your self-concept. A hobby can reduce stress. And, having a hobby may help you fight dementia as you age.

This year, I want to expand hobbies by exploring podcasting and video editing, taking more day trips to appreciate sites in the area, and brewing beer. I bought the home brew kit for Scott three years ago. Still in the original box.

Looks like I still may need to find hobbies that don’t require a debit card. On second thought, being creative isn’t a hobby, it’s a way of life.

Charge on.