January is National Hobby Month, celebrating the ways we pursue creativity, strength, nutrition, relaxation, exhilaration, wisdom and good cheer. The term “hobby” comes from a 16th century term “hobyn” meaning a small horse or pony. Toy hobby horses – sticks with the head of a horse – were for children to ride in their imagined adventures. By the 18th century, hobbies once considered frivolous evolved into pastimes worthy of respectability.
Today, hobbies are big business, embraced by millions for enjoyment and escape from a stressful world. Hobbies can also be pathways to profitability. The only question now: which of thousands of hobbies would suit YOU? Here are some ideas!
Arts and crafts – for many, that where it’s at
Baking and cooking – your friends will love that!
Camping and hiking – breathe in that fresh air
Dancing – your chance to be like Fred Astaire
Escape rooms – find clues that will help you get out
Fly fishing – chasing the elusive trout
Golf – join a foursome and head to the links
Home brewing – find out what goes in your drinks
Ironman sports – if you are the “tough” kind
Jigsaws and crosswords to sharpen your mind
Kayak, canoe – pond, creek, river, or lake
Live-action role play – what role will you take?
Metal detecting – find treasures down deep
Napping – the hobby for those who crave sleep
Orienteering – you’ll never be lost
Pickleball – fun sport with minimal cost
Quilting – alone or as part of a “bee”
Reading – a library card makes it free!
Storm chasing might lift you right off the ground
Travel – for folks who love getting around
Ultimate Frisbee – toss disks, laugh, and run
Vegetable growing – add water and sun
Wine tasting – fun, but please don’t overdo!
Xbox games open up new worlds for you
Yoga relaxes you, puts you at ease
Ziplining – thrills as you fly over trees
So many great options are waiting for you
Resolve to begin a new hobby… or two!
What a great list! There are so many inspiring resources at our libraries too! Birding, crafting, painting, pottery, photography, scrapbooking, stamp collecting, model railroading, whittling…the list is endless!