[This is prompt 21 of the Book of Me, Written by You series: Hobbies]
I have always had a lot of hobbies. When I was growing up I loved to make things: Shrinky Dinks, Shaker Makers, String Art, Latch Hook Rugs, Embroidery, Needle Point, Plastic Canvas. If they made a kit for it, I probably tried it. I still enjoy crafts as an adult. However, arthritis prevents me from doing almost any kind of fine work or stitchery. I just can’t hold a needle anymore. My middle niece loves making things and we’ve worked on various projects together over the years.
I’ve always enjoyed jigsaw puzzles, word puzzles, and board games. I love when my nieces and nephew come over and we have our board game marathons. And, now I don’t have to let them win because they are old enough to handle losing 😀 I love that my tablet allows me to play a whole variety of games. I enjoy nothing more than mental challenges.
Growing up I collected baseball cards. I used to have a box (the type you use to wrap clothes for a present) filled with them, especially of the 1970s Oakland A’s. I began collecting postage stamps in my early 20s. I was fascinated by the different stamps that came on my letters from pen pals. My Aunt was the one who got my started collecting them. I still do this, though not as regularly. I also collect postcards. I have postcards from around the world from my pen pals. They fill several shoe boxes.
I used to love to spend time in nature, going camping, taking hikes, setting out with my camera. Arthritis put a damper on that. The pain in my feet making it too difficult to walk for long periods. But, I’ve kept up with nature photography. Just in my backyard I can find different flowers and critters to take pictures of. We get some spectacular sunsets where I live. When I set out with my camera, it gives a chance to be outside and in the fresh air. Something I miss since arthritis.
I guess as with most folks doing these prompts, my main hobby is genealogy. I collect dead people 😉 I also collect binders which are filled with family group sheets and documents. And, I collect documents and old family photographs. There isn’t really anyone in my family that is interested. But, thanks to the internet, I’ve linked up with others who enjoy my passion and I’ve found cousins who are interested in our shared history.
So, you can see that I’m one of those people who can always find something to do (though, I do get bored at times). I don’t know how I’d get through the day without my various hobbies.
