What is something you discovered or got into later in life (hobby, interest, activity) that brings you a lot of joy or excitement? I’ve gotten stuck in my routine and identity. I’d like to branch out and do a little self discovery, but it’s been difficult with two kids under 5.
@bryan Like a lot of people during the pandemic, tabletop role-playing games like D&D. I was always curious but I had a friend group to play with and time to do so. I went too far as first and then pulled back to playing a moderate amount and I love it.
@sarcassem oh man, as cool as this sounds, I am not a water person. I about had a panic attack snorkeling in Hawaii the first time 😂
@xxxx That sounds cool, although it seems like a big commitment and learning curve. I wonder if I could find something local to join on MeetUp.
@bryan ahh, I got ya! I will say I’ve had friends who HAAATED snorkeling but loved scuba because it required less remembering not to breath or breath in a specific way.
@sarcassem a month ago, my friend and I decided to learn how to fish. So we've been going out to some gorgeous lakes and rivers, making a ton of mistakes, but enjoying being outdoors and figuring things out for ourselves.
@bryan I started backpacking when I was 47 and hiked one of the national scenic trails that same year. That's a little over the top, I know, but don't put off physical activity just because you're aging (like everyone else). I also started cycling in my 40's and had a few really good years on my bike. I was able to do both of those things with my wife.
@bryan I don’t know that much fresh has come along, but I have gotten a lot of joy rediscovering things that made me happy when I was younger.
@jsonbecker Such as? I’ve been revisiting some of the bands that I considered my “favorites” at various points in my life that I left behind when I became interested in other bands and genres. Some of it is a little embarrassing, but it also feels comforting in a weird way.
@amerpie that’s great! I try to stay active a few times per week, but it is certainly easier to say “no” to things when it’s the dead of winter, raining like hell, and the sun sets at 4:00 p.m. Still, I love to hike, even if challenging with little kids.
@sarcassem That’s good to know. In addition to the feelings of anxiety about breathing, I get panicky about not being able to move quickly. When large fish passed by me quickly, I embarrassingly started freaking out that they might have been tailed by a predator who might also find me tasty.
@bryan yeah, I get that. I had a dive buddy who WANTED to get bit by a shark. Crazy. She actively pulled the tail of a black-tipped shark.
@bryan playing casual volleyball for me. Reading the fiction I like was a big one too. Remembering I like baths to relax.
