We’re all about that new new. We want to help you find a new hobby, and try something not so basic. Our ulterior motive? The more interesting you are, the more we have to write about.
Here’s a #SwaySix with some out of the box ideas to enhance your new year’s resolutions and make them practical for you locally. If your resolutions sound anything like these we’ve got some suggestions to make them even better.
1. To get more connected to nature
If you want a killer garden next year (not to be confused with killing your garden, easy mistake we know) start planning in January. If you’re new to the world of plants, now is thee time to start. Preparing your garden in January ensures your plants are on track throughout the year.
- Pop into Gulley’s Garden center or another local nursery, browse their selection and ask their staff about plants that will thrive under your level of care.
- Take a soil sample to the Moore County Agricultural Center and see what you need to literally make your garden grow.
If plants are nothing new to you, take it the extra step, honey! Try your hand at beekeeping and get that garden pollinated. Midnight Bee Supply in Vass has what you need to get started with your own little hive.
2. To weave in more creativity
Knitting – a hobby where using giant needles can be fun. The skill is making a comeback and our grandma is thrilled she liked something before it was cool. Get some luxury yarns for your next project at Bella Filati Yarns in downtown Southern Pines.
Entertain us with your stories. Join a writing group at Southern Pines Public Library to connect with other writers and poets to discuss your next work of art. Email lholden@sppl.net for more info.
If you need some artistic inspiration visit the “Stitches and Strokes” art exhibit Jan. 7 to Feb. 15 at the Campbell House Galleries.
3. To expand your culinary skills
Bust out your apron and learn something new. Sandhills community college has workshop style classes available ranging from knife skills to scone making. There are even classes specific to cooking with an Instant Pot. You know, if that thing scares you.
If you don’t have time for classes, upgrade your at-home cooking experience with new olive oils and get some pairing suggestions from Pinehurst Olive Oil Company.
4. To get moving more (and enjoy it)
If your idea of exercise is walking into Starbucks instead of using the drive thru, try making your workouts more fun.
FORTE Fitness has Dance Fit Classes, with no membership necessary — you can drop in to classes or buy a package. You can sign up for dance classes at Carolina Dance Works and learn various ballroom style dances like salsa or cha cha, or hit some punching bags at Workhorse Fitness and Yoga.
If you’re looking for more fun outdoors try disc golf. It’s easy to learn, you can be that guy, and best of all the courses are free to play. Walk the course or be extra and run it. Visit Reservoir Park in Southern Pines or the Village of Pinehurst Disc Golf course off of Chicken Plant Road. There’s also a course at Hillcrest Park in Carthage, but it’s more of a choose-your-own adventure.
5. To read more than The Sway (although that’s OK)
Let others keep you in check for this resolution by joining a book club. The Country Bookshop has over 80 registered book clubs. Each club has its purpose whether it be all fiction books, self improvement books, beers and books, or a club for moms. Find out here what clubs are currently accepting new members. If you want to start your own club it’s easy to register in the store. If your book club is registered you even get 20 percent off your club’s current read.
If clubs aren’t your thing, get a library card at one of the many local libraries or visit The Given Used Book Shop.
6. To Spread your wings:
Take flight with aerial yoga classes at Hot Asana or bungee fitness at Train with a Smile. Or you can quite literally take flight and sign up for flying lessons at the Moore County Airport. Use this resolution to see things from a different point of view and soar through 2022.
What did we miss? Hit reply and let us know.
