I'm pretty sure that it's been proven how important it is to have hobbies. Something to do outside of work or school that you love and gives you a sense of achievement. Whether it's physical, such as a sport, mental, such as reading or doing crosswords, or artistic, such as painting or photography, there's something out there for everyone, and I hope everyone has something!
What do you like to do in your spare time? I have a few favourites.
Climbing for @mstafford:
OK, I'm not the climber in this scenario. Climbing is REALLY DIFFICULT. It's extremely physically challenging, and if you don't have a lot of strength, you're going to struggle. Mark LOVES climbing. It's his favourite activity. I have learned the ropes (literally) enough to be able to go out with him and have a nice time. He trusts me to belay him safely, and is patient when I get grumpy because I suck at climbing (lol). But we have fun, get out into nature together, and get some exercise. What more could you ask for? If you're into climbing, give my man @mstafford a follow. He's always looking for fellow crushers!
Kombucha Brewing:
Yes, in classic West Coast hippy style, we have learned to brew our own tangy, fizzy, healthy Kombucha tea. I love being able to brew it exactly how I like it, as I find the storebought varieties to be not only expensive, but too sweet. I like to make mine very fizzy, crisp & dry, with yummy flavours such as nectarine chai or blackberry vanilla. You should try it! I will do a big post on Kombucha brewing soon, as we are about to set up our very first continuous brew.
Brewing deliciousness... the first ferment
Perfect bubbles and gorgeous colour! Not the sharpest photo though... sorry :/
Painting:
Like I've mentioned before, I've recently started painting again after a long hiatus that started when I dropped out of the Fine Art program to pursue a more technical education in Photography. In 2017 I randomly picked up a brush again and haven't looked back. I've been getting some great feedback on my little pieces, and have even sold a few. I am thinking of trying to sell some online- do any of you have suggestions for a good platform to use? I don't really like Etsy and would love to find something blockchain-based. Let me know!
Horseback Riding:
Was really my childhood passion... back in the days when Momma paid for everything! I took lessons and competed up until leaving highschool. That's when I started having to pay for everything myself. Damn adulthood. Horses are expensive. I tried a couple times to ride and own horses as an adult, but just couldn't do it. I still remain a little horse girl at heart though, and hope to be able to get back into it some day soon.
Photography:
Last but not least, my life's passion! I was so, so certain that I was going to be a professional photographer. And for a while there, I was! I had my own studio and everything. But truth be told, I barely broke even that year, then had to move to another city... and I haven't been able to bring myself to shoot professionally since. It really wrecked it for me. In 2017 I made the official decision to stop trying to make a career out of it and to just enjoy it instead. Best. Decision. Ever. So, I have goals for shooting.. I still want to shoot lots, but the professional pressure is off and I can't wait to learn other types of photography too! I used to not even pick up my camera unless I was getting paid- which meant I was always shooting the same stuff (my specialty- portrait & fashion). Now I feel free to explore other genres such as landscape and macro etc. I have a LOT of photography content to share so stick around!
What do you like to shoot the most?
A rare photo of me with my camera.
An old facebook cover photo from my photography business page.
What do you do for fun? I am always so inspired when I see passionate people doing incredible things! Show me your hobbies! Cheers!