The Intro

Discovery: A Journey with Friends

Finding time for our passions can be challenging, but when a group of dads come together over shared hobbies, it becomes an adventure filled with ups, downs, and the occasional moment of peace. We are a group of friends who met through our kids and bonded over fishing, gardening, crafting, and spending time with family. Our story is one of camaraderie, some dark humor, and finding small joys in simple activities.

Fishing: Reeling in Memories (and Mostly Disappointments)

Fishing is more than just a hobby for us; it's an escape from daily grind and responsibilities. There's something calming about the gentle lapping of water, the rare thrill of a bite, and the frequent disappointment of catching nothing but seaweed. We've explored numerous fishing spots, from hidden ocean coves to not so serene rivers, each trip an opportunity to unwind and swap stories that are more fiction than fact. Whether we're teaching our kids how to cast a line or competing to catch the biggest fish (or any fish at all), fishing is a reminder that patience is a virtue we’re still working on. Sometimes, we even catch fish—usually small enough to wonder if we need glasses or a new hobby.

Gardening: Cultivating Patience (and Battling Gophers)

Gardening brings us together, teaching patience, resilience, and creative cursing at stubborn plants. Our gardens reflect our individual tastes and a collective lack strange mistakes. From vibrant flower beds to barely-thriving vegetable patches, each garden shows our struggle and occasional small victories against nature's relentless efforts to reclaim our backyards. We share tips, swap plants, and gather for garden parties where we admire each other’s perseverance and at least one of our results. We've also learned that a garden hose is not a reliable tool for taming wild vegetation, no matter how hard you try.

Crafting: Unleashing Creativity (and Chaos)

Crafting is where our creativity and chaos collide. Whether it's electronics projects, sewing, or canning projects that rarely match the instructions, crafting allows us to express ourselves and embrace our imperfections. We get together to share what we built - and the occasional unexpected fire. The items we've created are not just hobbies; they're reminders that striving for perfection often leads to hilarious outcomes and messy rooms. We've discovered that glue guns are a hazard, not a tool, and that glitter never truly goes away. We even used ChatGPT to write this blog, proving that sometimes the best tool for the job is a robot with a sense of humor.

Family Time: The Heart of It All (and an Excuse for Barbecue)

At the core of our group is a commitment to our families. We make time for loved ones, often involving a grill and our comptative cooking skills. Whether it's a weekend barbecue, a family picnic, or a movie night, spending time with our families is a priority. Our kids have grown up together, forming their own friendships and tolerating the activities we organize. These moments remind us of the importance of balancing our hobbies with our roles as dads, even when the balance feels more like a juggling act.

Learning and Growing Together (and Sometimes Getting It Right)

One of the best parts of our group is the continuous learning, even if it's mostly learning what not to do. We're always eager to learn from those around us, whether it's a new fishing technique, a gardening hack, or a crafting idea that doesn’t end in disaster. The knowledge and experiences we share enrich our lives, even if our gardens still look like jungles and our crafts end up in the garage. Sometimes, we even manage to grow stuff that impresses our friends —though that's still up for debate.

Finding Excuses to Do More (and Avoiding Chores)

Our hobbies give us endless reasons to get out and do more. These activities keep us active, engaged, and connected, providing a sense of purpose and a break from the mundane. Plus, it's always nice to have a valid reason for not fixing that leaky faucet—again..

Snare Crabbing in Marin

And there it is…

Being part of this group of friends and dads is a remarkable journey. We've found a balance between our hobbies, our families, and our friendships. Sharing what we do, learning from others, and finding excuses to do more has enriched our lives in countless ways. As we continue to explore new interests and create more memories, we are grateful for the bond we share and the joy that our hobbies bring. Here's to many more adventures, discoveries, and moments of happiness together!