Winter can be a drag. The days are shorter, the weather’s colder, and all you want to do is hibernate. But fear not, fellow winter-weary friend! There are plenty of fun and easy hobbies to keep you entertained and warm this season. Here are five hobbies your friends from Ocean State Job Lot thought you might like to try to keep you entertained this winter.
Board Games and Puzzles
Let your mind roam here. Board games. Puzzles. Playing with friends. Playing against foes. Set-up as teams or individuals. The options are limitless and can be changed up every time you play. Don’t forget, you may need the following when you play:
- Chairs/Couches & Sofas
- Paper and pens to keep score
- Space
- Tables
Add a mug of hot cocoa or coffee and some snacks for everyone to be toasty in front of the fireplace. A blanket or two could make things comfy and cozy as well.
Knitting with Chunky Knits and Cozy Nights
Knitting may seem intimidating at first, but it’s actually a surprisingly easy hobby to pick up. Plus, there’s nothing more satisfying than snuggling up in a cozy sweater or blanket that you made yourself. Remember to give yourself lots of patience and it’s ok to make mistakes. Start with a simple scarf or hat and work your way up to more complex projects like sweaters and blankets. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different colors and patterns.
Learn the basic stitches
Knit stitch: This is the most fundamental stitch. There are many tutorials online and on YouTube that can guide you through the process.
Purl stitch: This creates a slightly different texture than the knit stitch. It’s also a good way to learn early on.
Online tutorials and books at local bookstores can help too! Practice regularly, either when you’re just lounging on the couch, talking to friends or watching TV. Click here to read our previous post on new knitting ideas.
Indoor Gardening: A Little Green Thumb Magic
Just because it’s winter doesn’t mean you have to give up on gardening. Indoor gardening is a great way to bring a bit of nature into your home, even during the coldest months. You can grow herbs, vegetables, or even flowers in pots on your windowsill.
Succulents are a great option for beginners, as they require very little care. Plus, the looks and smells of what you’re growing will bring a brightening scent to your home.
Learn a New Language: Bonjour, Hola, Konnichiwa!
Learning a new language can be a challenging but rewarding experience. Whether you’re planning a trip abroad or just want to expand your mind, there are plenty of resources available to help you learn a new language. You can take an online course, use language learning apps, or even find a language exchange partner. It could be fun to learn with a friend!
Don’t be afraid to make mistakes. The more you practice, the better you’ll get. But, you’ll want to tell your family members or roommates before you start. They may start to wonder why you’re not speaking English and it’s not quite clear from the get-go.
Start a Journal: A Daily Dose of Self-Reflection
Journaling is a great way to express your thoughts and feelings, reduce stress, and improve your mental health. You can write about your day, your dreams, or anything else that comes to mind. Think of it as an open door to free your mind. It’s simply a place with no rules or boundaries.
Get a cute journal at Job Lot and a fancy pen to make the experience even more enjoyable. Drawing some pretty or silly pictures next to your words could help express your feelings on any given day.
Remember, with these wintertime hobbies, have fun, and don’t be afraid to experiment. With a little creativity and effort, you can turn even the coldest winter days into some cozy and productive time. So, what are you waiting for? Get out there and start exploring!