It’s here again -- the time of year when your guy plops down on the couch every Sunday, eyes glued to the TV, while you think about the 10 million other things you’d rather be doing than listening to him scream, “Where’s the FLAG?!” at the top of his lungs. Here’s how to make it through this football season without losing your mind.
1.) Get a jump-start on those DIY projects. Sure, you said you were going to wallpaper the master bathroom together, but what would you rather do -- watch another halftime game analysis or turn your blah bathroom into that photo you saw in a magazine?
2.) Rev up your fitness routine. You planned on running or biking at least once a day during the sunny summer months, but work, weekend barbecues, and invitations to your friend’s pool got in the way (oops). While your guy’s watching the game, head outdoors or break a sweat at the gym. Your newly toned figure is sure to catch his eye -- at least during commercial breaks.
3.) Channel your inner top chef. Okay, forget top chef -- how about any chef? Dust off the cookbooks your mom gave you (that you haven’t cracked open, not once), and give a new recipe a go. At the very least, you’ll have a romantic dinner ready for when the game’s over.
4.) Catch up with friends. Surely some of your other pals are also looking to escape their own version of football hell, so get together to check out new brunch places or meet up at a yoga or Zumba class (if you’re feeling ambitious!).
5.) Treat yourself. Yeah, yeah -- going shopping every Sunday isn’t realistic (or healthy for your budget), but give yourself the go-ahead to shop for those new skinny jeans you’ve been dying to check out (besides, what’s that TV football package costing you?). Not into clothes? Relax with an afternoon at the spa (pedicures, anyone?).
6.) Become a bookworm. Challenge yourself to read at least one book a month, and then see if any of your friends are game for a Sunday book club. Even if they’re not, you can unwind with a dose of java at a local coffee shop -- blissfully free of touchdowns, penalties, and the smell of Doritos (your guy’s favorite game-day snack).
7.) Make Sunday a movie day. Make a list of all the flicks you’ve been wanting to see, and then pick one to watch each week while your TV is under lockdown. Even if you don’t love the idea of eating popcorn alone, it’s better than the alternative at home (plus you can always invite a friend).
8.) Try tailgating. It’s true -- you can’t stand watching games on TV. But have you ever tried it live…after downing beers and hot dogs for two hours? Show your guy you’re a good sport by going to a game or two during the season. You might be surprised that live action makes all the difference!
-- The Nest Editors
Sep 16, 2010