Just For Fun: Learning Something New

I have seen on Facebook that many people are using this time of sheltering at home to learn something new.  Cooking, baking, arts and crafts, a work skill.  I'm working from home but have used my evenings to dabble in drawing and watercolor with free online tutorials.  I'm not much good but am having a lot of fun!  How about you?  Have you been learning something new?

Comments

  • I wish I had the time to learn something new! I am working from home, the kids are schooling from home, I am busier than ever!
  • Bryna Gleich
    Bryna Gleich Blackbaud Employee
    Tenth Anniversary Kudos 3 Name Dropper Participant
    I took piano lessons starting in elementary school through high school, but lost my skills when I went to college and moved out on my own. It's been over a decade since I played regularly. Shortly before the stay-at-home orders, I purchased a decent, but not fancy, 88 key digital piano and some music books. Shipping was delayed because essential supplies were prioritized, but now that it's here and set up, I've been playing for at least 30 minutes each day to get reacquainted with it. I practice with headphones plugged in to it so I don't feel embarrassed about simple mistakes and so my husband can listen to other things (Netflix, podcasts, etc) while in the same room. Progress is slow but steady. 


    I also adjusted the audio recording gear and foam padding in a corner of the room over my garage, so that I can make clearer audio recordings for voice overs. Since I'm working from home right now, I use those tools for work (how-to videos) and for play. If you're interested in video and audio, three of the sources I follow for tips are Adobe, Wistia, and TechSmith. 
  • That is a wonderful thought! i have definitely been trying to try brand new recipes and new activities. Working from home definitely has it's advantages and disadvantages. Being cooped up at home is one of those. So learning something new makes things more fun. Thanks!
  • Katie Cagney
    Katie Cagney Blackbaud Employee
    Fifth Anniversary Kudos 1 Participant Facilitator 1
    Mostly we've been learning how to keep a kitten entertained! But I really want to try the masterclasses I keep seeing online - there's one about being an astronaut with Chris Hadfield that sounds amazing.

    We've also been learning Ballet from theballetcoach alongside my 3 year old niece!
  • JoAnn Strommen
    JoAnn Strommen Community All-Star
    Tenth Anniversary Kudos 5 PowerUp Challenge: Product Update Briefing Feedback Task 3 2025 bbcon Attendee Badge
    Like several others, I wish I had the time. We happen to have extra family members and pets staying with us at this time. Done some reading. Having to cook a lot more! Best part of day is when husband comes home and we can escape the house and go for a walk. Have been heading different direction each day - exploring different streets/areas.
  • I haven't been learning anything new, but I have been trying to work on photo books while I have time.
  • I've been making a new garden plot! I hope to attract more birds and butterflies to our yard and am planting wildflowers everywhere. So far it's been mostly pulling up lawn but once the weather warms up I'll be ready to plant!
  • I have been painting more. I got a few paint by number kits online. I also got some take home paint kits from a local paint studio that normally does the typical wine/paint nights. I also ordered one of those diamond painting kits. Just trying to be a little more arts and crafty!