What hobbies do you have? What do you like to do for fun?

[flower12345]

Hi Everyone. I hope that everybody is having a low pain day. Right now, my feet are BURNING like crazy (nerve pain) so I'm sitting on the couch. I'm just wondering what hobbies you have. I know that in the beginning (right after the accident), I missed everything that I used to do so much! I used to ski, camp, go rock climbing, ride bikes, travel, etc. It took years for me to accept the pain that I have each day and it took me years to find the doctor that I have who really helps me to be able to function as well as possible. During that time though, I found other things that I like to do...things that are not physical. I do exercise in therapy and at home as much as I can (admittedly not enough), but that's not really fun for me because it often causes more pain.

I enjoy scrapbooking, but I can't do it too much because it does take a lot of bending for me.  It's probably because I'm a bit careless when I'm doing it, and then I feel it later. Also, it's pretty expensive to go to Michael's and buy supplies. I'd like to find a cheaper way of doing it, so it'd be great if anyone knows of any reputable online sites from which to buy materials.

I make cards. I do occasionally paint. I have tried to crochet and to knit, but I couldn't get it! I spent hundreds of dollars on supplies and ended up giving them away. Hubby wasn't too happy about that one. I bought teach-yourself books that didn't work for me.

I have also taken jewelry-making classes. I loved it, but it was very expensive and I had difficulty using the techniques that I learned in class at home. I'd like to start that up again.

Let's see...I sit on heat/ice and watch t.v. and I read books. I enjoy reading the Bible and going to church.

And of course, I like to use the computer.

I'm always looking for a new hobby, but it is difficult because of my chronic pain. What do you like to do for fun?

Thanks,

Flower

[runitskat]

I've only seen an armadillo once when I lived in Oklahoma. It was eating some poor ladies flowers. My cat so far has gotten the most gophers. He usually brings his "prize" into the house as a nice little gift to the family. He's only brought one live one into the house though. We use the traps, the poison bate and a repellent that you sprinkle over the areas you don't want them to go. I tried the drowning method last year and it just made my back yard really muddy. We also used the sulfur bombs last year with little success but it was fun. So far nothing is working 100%. We've only caught one in the traps which are supposed to be the most affective.

[melissaky]

I love to read which has been a savior when I have been laid up.I love gardening and canning .We have put up 40 quarts of tomato juice so far .I used to do all the canning but thank god my  hubby helps now.I still grow my herbs which I love .I made my own febreze spray with herbs today and it it great! I also spend a great amount of time on the computer .The last few days my knee has been giving me fits so I have been on a lot.I have noticed since I am not as mobile I put a lot of time in on the computer.I used to sing with a band ,I wrote poetry ,I was so physical it is hard knowing a lot of things I used to be able to do are not possible now .I just try to find things I enjoy and CAN do .I keep occupied as much as I can

[RunningMom]

I use to run and exercise for a good part of my day.  I no longer can do that.  I was also into quilting and making quilts for the family.  I can not do that either.  I loved to hike with the kids as well.  The kids and I did a lot of activities before my injury also.  I lived a very busy life.

The best thing for me now is I love to meditate.  It doesn't require any physical movement whatsoever and I feel much better when I get up.  Sometimes I do fall asleep, but I try not to.

I spend some time on the computer and I like to play scabble and I do like family feud on facebook.  I like to come here and chat with you guys too.  I like to read and study on various subjects with the information provided online.  I'm always looking for something that will get my mind off this pain.

[JadedSweetheart]

Firstly I have my kids, who are the biggest amusement ever.  I suppose that's not a "hobby", though.  I usually like to read and use the computer for various things, MH, facebook, news, yahoo games.  I love my cats, they cheer me up when I'm feeling down.  When I'm feeling up to it I like jewelry making.  I have some orchids and potted plants that are fun to mess with when I feel up to it or look at when I don't.  I read my Bible and pray before bed and that helps to relax me.  I enjoy a good political debate with my politically interested and diverse friends on FB.  I love spending time with my husband and going anywhere with the kids is sure to be interesting.  I am blessed to have great neighbors and I like to talk to them occasionally.  It's all about doing what I can do and what I feel up to.  Right now I'm being mauled by a Tiger... cat.. :)

[troubleinohio]

wow a lot of us are gardeners and avid readers, I see! I do both as well. THis is the only time of year i have a good tan. Im constantly weeding,watering and picking veggies this time of year. I have to do it in very short spurts throughout the day though as my back cannot take it if I do it for more than about 20-30 mins at a time. I also try to go to garage sales this time of year and find good buys for my kids (so far i havent found many school clothes, Im getting panicky that I'll have to buy all brand new!). I used to ride dirtbikes and ATV's years ago but have not rode in a couple of years now. My back cannot take all that jarring around!! I dont miss that too much anyways though..Im getting too old for that anyways, lol (im turning 40 in 2 months). I also love animals, I have always had lots of cats and dogs my whole life. I once had a pet squirrel as well. My cat brought it home one day- it was basically still an EMBRYO- bald, eyes still shut and so tiny!! Its a miracle she lived. I bottle fed her day and night until she could eat on her own. SHe died years ago now but it sure was a neat experience and I miss her still. My kids of course are my utmost importance in my life and they are what keep me going =)

[Jaybay]

Wow!  trouble, that is amazing that you were able to save a neonate squirrell.  I found one last summer while walking my dogs.  The poor little guy's eyes weren't even open and the fire ants were just about to strike when I passed by.  We have a really good wildlife rehab facility here so I took him in.  Even they couldn't save him.  His digestive system was just too immature.  I've brought so many injured critters to that place over the years they recognize me on sight.  LOL!

It's interesting that we were all very active folks before CP came into our lives.  That fact puts paid to the myth that CP patients "want" to lay around and do nothing, doesn't it?  I ought to print this thread for a few friends and family members.  ;-)