Taking Hobby Inventory

Do not underestimate the need for hobbies

    Although I am a new Empty Nester, I have been paying close attention to my friends and their journeys. One friend comes to mind in particular. When her adult children were off at college, she realized that she didn't have many hobbies or interests beyond her work and children. As mothers, that is what we do, we dedicate our lives to our children and if we are lucky we might also have a career outside our home.  

     My friend soon discovered that she did have interests, and started to pursue them.  She quickly filled her time with a variety of activities.  As I watched her I took notes.  Although I was years away from being an Empty Nester, I knew the day would come, and I wanted to be prepared.  I started to take inventory of my interests and hobbies and I realized quickly that I would be okay.  I have a plethora of interests and hobbies, what I have always lacked is time. 

    During my daughters senior year I took one step closer to pursuing something I really enjoy.  I decided to start a sewing club at the elementary school I teach at. My principal was supportive, but there was no funding for the club. I was so committed that I decided to volunteer and teach kids to sew.  It was a hit.  I taught over forty students at my school how to sew.  That was the first step into unchartered waters.  I combined several things I enjoy doing: teaching, volunteering and sewing.  

    I wouldn't have been able to teach this after school club without the support of two friends, who also wanted to learn to sew. This opened up another avenue. At the end of the year, I hosted a “Staff Sewcial” for teachers at my school.  I put together a premade kit with simple directions for teachers who signed up.  We made zippered pouches and cloth book covers.  I am not sure who enjoyed it more, the teachers or me.  Seeing them persevere while creating their own handmade items was priceless.  The finished products and the smiles were priceless.  

    Having hobbies and interests outside of our children is important. As I look back I see that while my girls were growing up, I needed something to help keep me balanced.  I had a career, my girls and all their activities.  What about me?

    The opportunity to be creative for me has always been important.  I realize now that my hobbies have provided me a valuable outlet for creativity and a  place for my mind to wander.  When I am engaged in a hobby, I give my emotional and physical well-being  a break, and I am able to recharge. 

    As my girls were growing up I also spent a lot of time gardening.  Sometimes with them, but mostly by myself.  We grew vegetables year round and they would help with the harvesting. I enjoyed the whole process, including building the raised garden beds.  I planted seasonal flowers and the girls helped me make flower arrangements for our home.  I know it sounds crazy but I even enjoyed weeding because I knew when I was done I could run to the nursery and buy flowers to plant.  The satisfaction of a clean garden bed with fresh flowers is priceless.  

    Step 1:  Take inventory of your hobbies and interests
    Step 2:  Don't wait, start pursuing them as soon as possible
    Step 3:  Look for like minded people, join a group or create your own.

    You wont realize how much free time you will have on your hands when the nest is empty,  Who knows what your hobbies and interests may lead to.  I am in the process of trying to figure it all out now, to be continued. 

    My friend is now a retired empty nester and she has really taken off.   I can hardly keep up with her.  Long gone are the days of worry, what will I do now with all this free time.  I continue to take notes, because empty nesters eventually retire, which means more time to pursue hobbies and find new passions.