Hobbies

In no particular order here is a list of things of which I enjoy, to allow a little insight into my life.

1. Reading
I love to read. In a few short years I have compiled a small library that covers an extensive number of topics. These include fiction novels covering the genres of fantasy, murder mystery, action, adventure and a small collection of thriller/sci-fi books. I also keep a similar amount of factual books covering the topics of geology, the natural world, human biology and medical practices, history, ancient and modern warfare and religion (from both religious and atheist writers). I use the nature books often in several of my other weekend activities.

2. Hiking
From my book collection one soon realizes that I am a person with an incredibly open mind. I am also an avid hiker and have collected a good deal of hiking equipment over the last 18 months (this can all be checked out in my 'Equipment' section, accessed form the home screen). Over the next few weeks I intend to plan a route along some of the famous hiking trails in the area and set out on a 25-35 km trek, weather permitting.

3. Writing
Writing must be one of the greatest joys in my life. I use a good hardcover notebook to keep track of my day to day activities, achievements, goals and payments. I always have it close at hand in the evening to quickly scribble in an idea or in my pack on outings so i can take GPS co-ordinates and keep track of my adventures. When out and about there is so much to see, I would not doubt for a second most of it would have slipped my mind long ago if I didnt have my notebook to remind me. Over the last few months i have been using a high quality Parker brand fountain pen to do all my writing. For those who have never used something that isnt a ball-point i recommend you give it a shot, take care though. Fountain pens can be prone to leaking and require regular cleaning, the trade off is an incredibly smooth writing experience on most papers, and for the artistic there is no limit to the amazing calligraphy that can be produced.

4. Prospecting
Although often associated with older men and retirees, this is an activity I find most pleasing. For those unfamiliar with prospecting, it is the process of seeking precious minerals in the soil through the use of varying techniques, most notably in the modern age through the use of a metal detector. I bought my first detector nearly a year ago now. It cost me $200 and when it first arrived i went straight down to the beach to try it out. I was amazed at how well it worked and I was soon hooked. Within a month i had ordered an upgraded unit for $1000, and was planning my first trip to the goldfields. Although I am yet to have any life changing finds I have found plenty of interesting items down at the local beaches, such as coins and a ring. As for my goldfields trip I was rained out before I got a chance to thoroughly search the area I was in, although I didn't find any gold I did manage to dig up a vintage silver spoon (lets be honest, not a bad start).