Writing and new hobbies in the New Year
Writing has always been a hobby. From writing down scribbled notes to cards and short stories, it's been something I've loved forever. But, it wasn't until a few years ago this little writing hobby became more serious. Writing books, with the sporadic Beatrix Bobbit story (which somehow sporadically has turned into 32 stories!). And getting serious about writing has produced 2 completed books (and 2 complete rewrites), 1 currently being queried and getting good feedback, 1 ready to be queried in (it's the year of THE ETERNAL NIGHT SOIREE), 32 Beatrix Bobbit stories and a smattering of outlined ideas for books that are ready to be explored.
The most wild part of all of this, this is not a hobby I devote all my time to. I devote time to it, every single day, but not all my time. And, it's such a fun hobby to have because the daily little writings add up, over weeks and months and years.
Which feels like the amazing Point of hobbies. Something you commit time to that you can cultivate over time until you can't decipher all the ways your little hobbies have shaped you . Because, when you're looking back on life (as we all shall do) you'll be so happy you made the decision to dedicate time to something that's given you a lot of joy.
So I declare 2025 the year of expanding my hobbies into more things I love:
Handstands: at first the goal was just to hold one. Then it was to hold one for longer. Then it was shapes, then presses, now one-armed for the New Year. The madness never ends.
Traveling: same deal. Always something new to explore, swim, hike. This past summer, we went on my absolute favorite trip yet to Annecy, France and Switzerland. Now, we're not really wanting to leave our eldery 14 year old pup behind, so hoping to explore places closer to Chicago.
Exercising: I know it feels like a weird thing to have as a capital H Hobby, but I genuinely enjoy programming workouts, lifting heavier weights, learning new skills, swimming more in cold water. I recently gave into the pickleball craze, and had the best time. Plus, who doesn't enjoy a new hobby that includes cute outfits?
Sewing: my little sewing machine has already been so fun. I've already dabbled in pillows and upcycling clothes, but hoping to finally learn to sew an actual outfit. Or maybe just a skirt.
This blog has been a bit rambling, but I barely know what day it is, so snaps to myself for even making it this far. I'd love to hear what hobbies you have?! Any new ones you're hoping to lean into this year?
Happy 2025!
