As I wrote in my last post - Mother’s Day Gift Suggestions…, I recently found a new hobby.  I am currently taking some classes on creating beaded jewelry.

Initially, I took the classes because I was in a bit of a funk and sometimes when I find myself feeling a bit blah, I force myself to try something different.  I found that there’s a shop called Moody Beads not too far way from my place that was giving classes for free.  You just pay for the materials you use.  So I called and asked about the schedule, found out roughly how much the materials would cost and signed up.

During the first class we created a charm bracelet. Honestly, I didn’t expect to enjoy myself but it was so much fun and I was so proud of what I made that I have since signed up for four more classes.  It is strange, since I hardly wore jewelry and never felt the desire to string anything together. But I am hooked.  Plus I made my mom’s Mother’s Day gift during one of the classes (See picture below) and she loves it.

As I type this up, I have so far spent $75 on materials for a beaded ring, bracelet and 2 necklaces (Including my mom’s gift).  To me, it is money very well spent as I have acquired new skills, have made new friends and have four beautiful pieces of jewelry to show off (Yes, I wear them).  And needless to say, I am out of my funk all because I tried something different and new.

Care to try out beading?  If you live in the Burnaby/New West, BC area, visit www.moodybeads.ca and check out their workshops.  Or check out the web and find out if there’s a bead shop offering classes in your area.

If you want to try something new other than beading but are not sure what, grab a brochure from your local rec centre or a continuing education flyer from your local school board and see if there are any night classes you might be interested in taking this season.

Want more ideas on what to spend your hard-earned cash and precious time on?  See the Alternative Investments section.