two very INexpensive hobbies.

The two least expensive hobbies to have

They’re not raising race horses or collecting impressionist art. As you’ve probably guessed, one hobby is birdwatching. The other is gardening. Certainly, they’re inextricably intertwined (say that 3 times, fast). Being retired, I do both, and probably save a lot of time and money that can now be lavished and squandered on grandchildren.

Why are both birdwatching and gardening are at or near the top of the list of popular, inexpensive hobbies. For one thing, they cost a whole lot less than most hobbies (most others are fine hobbies, but money's tight, folks!). There are no rules and procedures for either. None! There are no clubs to join (unless you want to), there’s no “must” wearing apparel, and you don’t have to travel anywhere (again, unless you want to). Getting started with either is as simple as hanging a birdfeeder or two in your yard, and nurturing plants nearby.

A big appeal of both birdwatching and gardening is that they’re profoundly educational while being inexpensive. They're not physically demanding, either. The two hobbies delve into the  interrelationships of nature’s plants and animals. Seeing things like birds hanging around certain flowers, and nesting in certain trees, and thinking about “why”, is a big step toward understanding the world we all live in. Showing things like that to your grandchildren is enlightening to everyone!

 

OWEN YOST, in addition to being a blogger, is a licensed Landscape Architect emeritus who has lived and worked in north Texas for over 30 years. He is the recipient of a Lifetime Achievement Award of the Native Plant Society of Texas, and is a member of the American Society of Landscape Architects (ASLA), International Federation of Landscape Architects, National Wildlife Federation and the Audubon Society. His office is at Yost87@charter.net in Denton.