[By Kristin Antonino]
This year take a vow to learning something new. No, it doesn’t have to be a language. Try your hand – or maybe your feet – at making wine, dancing or learning to swim. If you prefer more sedentary pursuits, take an art class, learn a musical instrument or take up crocheting.
Expanding your horizons doesn’t mean ordering from a different category on Netflix. So get off the couch. Here are some suggestions.
The Columbia Art Center has classes in everything from pottery to watercolor to batik. Along with art classes throughout the year, the center has rotating gallery exhibitions, a gift shop, summer art camps for children and special events. How about inviting your friends to a jewelry making party? Up to 10 adults can schedule a private, and fun, two-hour class. Bring your own food and wine. columbiaartcenter.org
If you don’t know how to swim, it’s time to dip your toe in the pool. The YMCA (Dancel Center in Howard County) has swimming lessons that won’t intimidate, but will make you realize what you’ve been missing. And once you’re knee deep, try Aqua Fit or Aqua Jog classes – the health benefits are a splash. ymaryland.org/dancel-family-center-y
Become a vintner. Instead of merely visiting a vineyard, how about tipping back a glass you call your own? One you perfected with the help of Tin Lizzie Wine Works. One in which you can proudly say, I made this wine! The romance of learning to make wine is brought to you by Tin Lizzie Wineworks. A place where you can make up to an entire barrel of wine, 
choose your grapes (options vary), learn the process and take it home! Now I’ll drink to that, cheers! tinlizziewineworks.com
Don’t let the shower be your only audience – embrace your singing voice and take a few lessons at the Maryland Academy of Music. If singing isn’t the key, learn to play the guitar or improve your piano skills. With group classes, private instruction and specialized classes (Brazilian guitar anyone?) this academy hits the right chords. marylandacademyofmusic.com
Don’t know how to dance? Give it a whirl with a partner, on your own or with a group at Arthur Murray. Once you’ve figured out the moves – show them off at a practice party or a Saturday night dance. Classes include Rhythm and Latin Dances (Hey Mambo!), Smooth and Standard (Can I get a Waltz?), Country Western (Get in Line) and Specialty Dances (Polka! Polka!). Put on your dancing shoes and fulfill your Fred and Ginger fantasy. Check out the Internet specials and give it a whirl. dancecolumbia.com
Is the shop really All About Yarn? When the store closes, we’re told, the yarn jumps off the shelves and into the hands of knitters of all stripes. Learn everything from casting on to complicated cables. And if you make a mistake, there’s always the Oops Class. The hardest part may be choosing from the colorful and luxurious variety of yarns. You may just walk out in a pair of socks you’ve made yourself. allaboutyarn.com
