Do you have a hobby?

Say you’re having dinner with a friend or relative you haven’t seen in a while. Have you ever asked them what their hobbies are? I find it interesting to ask someone about their hobbies, and see where the conversation leads.

My husband Jim has two primary hobbies—toy trains and action figures—but has dabbled in a number of other things over the years. He also has a long list of projects to do or try, especially in model trains. 

My husband next to no. 4449 when it came to Milwaukee in 2009. Though he is primarily into model trains, he can't pass up an opportunity to see a spectacular locomotive like this!

I have a stepdaughter and step son-in-law in their late 20s. During an evening out, Jim and I talked to them about hobbies. The son-in-law said his only hobby was “sports,” (meaning attending or watching games, not playing them). The stepdaughter didn’t have an answer, and I can understand why. I’ve never seen anything in their house resembling a hobby.

I have nieces and nephews aged 8-14, and I’ve been quietly watching to see what hobbies might develop. My older nephew received both toy trains and a large-scale set when he was younger, and though he doesn’t run them anymore, they are safely stored away. One particular large-scale engine holds a place of honor on his dresser—sparking hope from this aunt that he may one day return to model trains. 

My nephew (several years ago) at the throttle, running O gauge trains with his uncle.

I have a god daughter who is 13 and, according to her mom, “very crafty.” I send her craft-related birthday and Christmas gifts with glee, hoping that one of them will stick

As for me, I often quip that I have too many hobbies. I’m an avid reader, plus enjoy bicycling, gardening, crochet, shopping at thrift stores, rubber stamping, machine embroidery. . .the list goes on.

Have you ever had this conversation? If so, where did it lead? Have you ever suggested model trains as a hobby to someone?

P.S. If you’d like to see more photos I took of the 4449, leave a comment below. I have more that I can share in a future post!