I need a hobby...

Interviews, dates or just general chit-chat with strangers I always have nothing to say when asked 'So, do you have any hobbies?' 

I really don't. I enjoy blogging but can blogging be classed as a hobby? It's something I enjoy and do not-so-regularly but I'm not out the house and not with people. I always include 'socialising' as a hobby but what I really mean is getting pissed now and again and/or eating myself into a food coma.

I am a very social person who loves learning and doing and meeting new people but I seem to have gotten myself into the inevitable rut of a working woman; work, wine, sleep repeat. Time to kick my large for a slim person arse into shape. Here are a few hobbies and things to do that have taken my liking around Birmingham, plus I need to see more of my hometown, and been added to my to-do list. (Seriously, I've made one)

First and foremost is the O2 Academy. Gigs. Who doesn't love a good gig? Rubbing against a sweaty stranger is one of my favourite things to do. The website provides a listing of up-coming gigs and allows you to book tickets there and then. Other music venues include NIA, NEC, the flapper, Hare and Hounds, the Yardbird. There is always a gig going on somewhere in town if you look for it.

To fulfil my inner adrenaline junkie a friend mentioned Redpoint (image from www.redpointclimbingcentre.co.uk/) It's only £16 p/a for an hourly session, including training and equipment. They have several routes and it has been constructed with varied routes across different shapes and angles. Unless specified otherwise you are invited to use everything

I plan to see hidden gems the town has to offer  and spend more time there whether it's cafes, coffee shops (Yorks, 6/8 Kafe etc) or restaurants or even spend a day at Birmingham Museuem.

I have never ever been to Cadbury World either, something I am very ashamed of. I shouldn't really allow it to become a hobby although I'd very much like it to be.  The tour includes how to make chocolate, demonstrations and a history of the factory and it's local area. It says it's great for families and groups of school children but I don't remember seeing an age limit on bars of chocolate do you?



For my creative side I have also found loads of make-&-do crafts through through Creative Open Workshops (C.O.W) all perfect for that inner quirky chic character we all have inside of us. 'I love your_____ Bec. Where did you get it?' 'I made it myself'

• Jewellery Making - March
• Sewing - March
• Create your own table linen - March
• CYO Purses - March
• Laptop sleeves - Feb 

(for more information please see the website in link above - may require booking)

I've always been proud of Birmingham, though I currently live in Walsall I do consider myself a Brummie. The town has so much to offer than you might initially think.

Have you got any interesting/exciting things to do around Birmingham?