My friend Tracy has very kindly written this lovely article on finding a hobby. Please read on to hear her story.
When people think of retiring or spending more time at home rather than at work the word ‘hobbies’ is thrown around as a past time. I used to wonder what that would actually look like for me. Fast forward a few decades to my own decision to change careers, with no children to look after and time to fill I had the need to spend time doing something.
Hobbies can really be anything, I would suggest the definition of a hobby is something we do for pleasure to fill time that we enjoy doing. It’s a ‘my time activity’ which can be done on your own, with someone or a group. For me that is craft, exploring historical places and travelling to the most beautiful places I can find around England.
My love of craft started at an early age. Wood work reminds me of my father. I started helping him, as the eldest girl child from around 4. By the time I was 6 I had my own miniature tool set, electric drill and fret saw. My grandmother was a keen machinist and taught me how to use a sewing machine.
When I left work I realised that craft is what I missed. I wanted to play with sticky back plastic, get my hands wet while rubbing sheep fleece together and making felt. I learnt to spin wool and process it. Also, I needed to find ways to be able to make things with the fleece. Peg and pin looming became not only a craft but my biggest hobby.
During the summer I also like travelling to different National Trust and English Heritage places. They are rich in history and remind me of a simpler life. I like travelling to rural areas such as Derbyshire and the Yorkshire moors. The views are breathtaking and unspoilt. Packing as many visits to steam trains, abbeys, castles and historical homes. Usually visiting the gardens and open spaces, taking in the view and walking my dog.
Some of the places I have visited showcase traditional craft and I love seeing the different ways in which the craft is presented.
Photography is also an unexpected hobby . I realised I take so many photos of places with the dog as the main feature!
Dr Eleanor Rogerson founded Hobby Aids because she believes hobbies are good for you and limitations shouldn't stop doing what you enjoy. She is based in North Lincolnshire, UK.
Her background is chemistry, but after years in industry she wanted to work for herself and so went self-employed. During this time she mainly worked as a gardener. Recently she has been diagnosed with arthritis in her hands, which has caused her to discover the gap in the market to cater for hobbies for people with limitations.
Tracy Edwards
Tracy had a varied career, including nursing, employment law, teaching and social care. She now works as a tutor and maker of craft. She thoroughly believes craft is for everyone.
