Beyond Dinner & Drinks: Rediscovering Social Fun in the Age of Adulting.

I hate that I just used the new verb adulting, but there really isn't another word to describe the collective pressure and responsibilities we have as modern adults. Lately I've been feeling stuck in an adulting rut, and I suspect others are as well. I struggle to find time to just have fun. My life isn't dull by any stretch of the word, but everything seems to be tied to a responsibility. In the past three months,  I've gone to hang out with a friend just to be social and for fun, three times, and I can't even tell you how much it heals my heart to just sit and talk with a friend. In between, the weeks go by so quickly. Kids, work, laundry, dinner, repeat. I don't get offended when people don't respond to a text right away, because I get it. I will leave a text unread until I have a moment to actually engage in a response. I just assume that they're doing the same. I've heard people say that they're going to get off of social media, and be more social, but I honestly don't think that's the entire problem. Most of the people I know scroll for a few minutes while they're taking a break during times where they aren't going to replace it with social interaction. For me, the problem is, what the heck are we going to do? Everything revolves around going out to eat, or to get a drink, or both. It’s expensive and I don't drink anymore. So what can we do that is social and fun? I can’t be the only one. How do we get beyond dinner and drinks, and find ways to connect and be social, while still doing all of the adulting necessary?

Here are things Google and I came up with. Add more ideas in the comments.

For a night in:

1. Spa night: Think face masks and manicures.

2. Craft night: Painting, jewelry making, scrapbooking, or bring your crochet to work on while you chat.

3. Potluck dinner: Everyone brings a dish to share.

4. Game night: Board games, card games, trivia.

To be active:

1. Hiking, Walking, or biking: Explore a local park or nature trail.

2. Picnic: Pack a lunch and enjoy it in a park or your backyard.

3. Yoga or fitness class: Find free or low-cost classes online or at a local community center.

Something cultural or educational:

1. Visit a museum or art gallery: Many museums have free or discounted admission days.

2. Attend a free concert or festival: Check local city websites and community pages for upcoming events.

3. Take a free or affordable online course: Learn a new skill or language together.

4. Attend a library event: Many libraries have classes, performances, and lectures. Check their website or community pages.

5. Volunteer at a local charity: Give back to your community while spending time with friends.

6. See a local community theater show: Many communities have affordable and entertaining community theaters.

I know there are a lot more ideas, and I’d love to hear them. If you come up with another affordable way to be social and have fun beyond dinner and drinks, share! Let's take a break from the adulting.

Love and Light,

Maria