While we love a good scroll through a review section both for entertainment and should-I-buy details, we also know the absolute best recommendations for clothing, TV shows, desserts, books, and the like usually come from friends.

Welcome to Our Favorite Things.

Today, we’re talking off-the-road hobbies. We all love to run and sweat, but there’s something to be said for activities that usher in a sense of accomplishment and joy without needing to pull on a sports bra.

NEEDLEPOINT

started when I was pregnant with my daughter who is about to turn 19! I have stitched Christmas ornaments and stockings, belts and pillows over the years. I love that it’s a meditative task, easy to take on road trips or to the beach, and that each tiny stitch adds up to create something beautiful and lasting!
—Jess Hofheimer, Coach of Traditional Programs

LITTLE HOUSE ON THE PRAIRIE

I’m obsessed with both the books and the show; listened to every episode of the Wilder podcast last year, and am going to a cast reunion in Connecticut in August. I read the books countless times as a kid, and watched the show religiously, comparing notes on each episode with my best friend at the time, who was also obsessed, so there’s a lot of nostalgia around it. But I’m also fascinated with the real life story of Laura Ingalls Wilder (versus the life she portrayed in the books), and fully intend to complete a road trip one day to visit all of the Wilder Museum sites and homesteads.
—Michelle San Antonio, Facebook Manager

 BIRD WATCHING

A few years back, my kids gave me an Audubon book for Mother’s Day, and that kicked off my birdwatching journey. I am fortunate to live in a neighborhood with large tree canopies, and also, nearby wetlands. I think combined, we get an amazing array of birds. Their songs make me happy, and the older I get, the more I want to learn about them.
—Amanda Loudin, Podcast Co-Host

COFFEE

After years of drinking Starbucks I have become something of a coffee snob. Now I grind beans every morning for what I hope will be a perfect French press cup of coffee. And I have become very particular about which beans I purchase. I blame my BFF, Monica, who insisted I try coffee from several independent coffee shops during a visit to Victoria, B.C. several years ago. Since then I have purchased my own equipment and studied up on the French press method.
—Ellison Garvin Weist, podcast co-host

 

JIGSAW PUZZLES
I am currently working on a 2000 piece puzzle and am particular about it being Ravensburger. I don’t often have time for it, but I go to it when I’m listening to a podcast, if I have a few minutes before my daughter needs a ride to soccer. It brings me so much calmness and peace but also is feels like an accomplishment each time I find a fit.
—Amy Skorich, Coach of Traditional Programs