The Importance of Play, Part 2
We are focusing on “play” during the month of July and asked a few of our Thread alumnae to share more about how they engage in play through hobbies.
JORDAN WALKER: CAMPING
What was it about your hobby that pulled you in?
Growing up, I was totally my father's daughter. He loved being outside as much as possible and our quick weekend getaways consisted of visiting one of our many Kansas state parks where we would essentially live on the lake. I was brought up tent camping and fell in love with the whole thing. I like the prep work, the set-up and getting the first fire lit. Now as an adult, I've expanded my camping adventures to mountains and canyons...and cots to sleep on ;)
Why is having this hobby important at this stage in life/career?
When most of life is tied to a device, getting out in nature for me is the greatest feeling. I may be sleeping with the wildlife, but I love that there are no schedules, no screens and no reason to shower (which is why you always plan around a water feature.) Camping and exploring the outdoors is also a passion I get to share with my husband. He's always down when I say things like "Let's camp all the way to Zion and back," and never complains when I say things like "Wake up, is that a bear?" We make a great team, even when we mistake a game trail for the real trail and end up a few miles off course. Sometimes those moments offer us the best picnic sites.
BETH GRIMMETTE: READING
What is it about this hobby that pulled you in?
I am a storyteller — born and bred. My father is an author and was a nationally syndicated columnist all through my childhood so I was literally raised on stories and writing. Because of that, there is nothing more comforting than getting lost in a good story. It is a grounding experience for me. I love seeing life through different perspectives and exploring worlds I could have never imagined. My tastes are far-reaching and often depend on my mood and the situation. I think that's another reason I love reading so much: it meets me where I am. If I just need to get lost in light-hearted love, Emily Henry has my back. If I want to feel empowered and challenge my thinking, Brene Brown is there for me. If I want beautiful storytelling that isn't rushed, Kristin Hannah never lets me down.
Tell us why having a hobby at this stage of your life and your career is so important to you?
It's so easy to get caught up in the "busy" of life — work, kids, life. For me, this hobby is how I pour into myself, how I refill my cup, and how I prioritize myself among the hustle-and-bustle of this stage. While reading is largely a solitary activity, I have found that there is a community of readers who love to connect, discuss books and share recommendations. I love that I am part of several book clubs where I get to meet with women, discuss our feelings and impressions from the reading, and then hear (or share) even more stories. It has given me an even greater sense of belonging and community.