“Between You and Me” – Hobbies

As a young lad, my earliest collection was a set of glass milk bottles with advertising printed on them. That phase lasted a couple of years and I built up around 30 or 40 bottles. Believe it or not, if I still had them today they would be collectables, dating back to the early 80s. At the time, ads on milk bottles was quite the novel and modern way of marketing.

I think most of us collect things as we move through life, although I don’t remember having that many collections overall. I remember my sister collecting a few things like rubbers/erasers and stickers around the same time.

In the 2010’s, quite a lot later in life I did like collecting Star Wars toys and figures, and for a long time they were proudly displayed in my office. A few still are. These days, most of them are carefully stored away rather than taking centre stage. The interest has not completely gone, it has just made room for other passions.

My focus has gradually shifted towards magic. This has led to a growing collection of signed items and memorabilia that feels much more personal and meaningful. Many of these pieces are now on display, including signed posters, playing cards, books and more. My playing card collection alone boasts over 100 signed cards from magicians.

Writing has become my biggest hobby alongside magic. My blog consumes most of my free time and creative energy these days and has naturally replaced some of my other interests. The writing and reviewing have also introduced me to other hobbies like cinema.

I suppose that is just part of growing older. Some hobbies stay with you, some evolve, and some quietly step aside as new ones take over. Even so, those earlier interests are still part of my story. There is a touch of nostalgia in that, even if the bottle collection was a little sad!