My wife said to me the other day, "You know, this whole hammock thing is almost like an obsession." I said, "It isn't almost like an obsession, it is an obsession." To that end, I showed her my 1-inch webbing, my toggles with the Marlin Spike Hitch, my new (just came today!) Kelty tarp, the order for my Dutch 'biners and my latest acquisition, a 1965 Gimbles thread injector (pics soon) in great condition. She wasn't even mildly amused.
So I got to thinking about some of the things with which I've been involved and it occurred to me that these aren't obsessions at all. Well, maybe to a few people but they're more like outlets. I always tell her that there are worse alternatives than me getting involved with learning new things (like knot tying), using my mind in different ways and coming up with solutions that can lighten my pack, come in handy in survival situations or perhaps help around the house - I made tarp tensioners for the clothes line and she loved them!
A quick list of my hobbies/outlets/obsessions with approximate dollar amounts:
Tennis teacher - more racquets sitting around my garage then I know what to do with. Probably close to $1,000.
Runner - I've run 15 marathons and gone through dozens upon dozens of shoes. Purchased more running apparel to last me a lifetime. Race registrations alone are close to or even over $100. Shoes = $90 each.
Triathlete - Swimming biking and running get expensive real fast. Hell, a bike alone can go for $3,000 on the low end!
Hockey player - too much gear (read, heavy gear) to carry. I'm older now and need wheels on the hockey bag. Total package = $550.
Hiker - I'm speaking to the choir here. $$$$$$$$$
Motorcyclist - The used bike was $4,500 and you can accessorize to your heart's content.
Hanging - I've only just begun but I'm up to around $250.
These are only a few and I'm interested to learn what other people are obsessed with.
Syb
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