10 Ways to Survive the Writers Strike

Having TV Withdrawal? Help is on Its Way

I watch too much TV. I'm the first to admit it (the first step for conquering any addiction is admitting you have a problem). That said, I don't actually see myself giving up one of my favorite past times. At least until this strike hit. But as my favorite TV shows go dark one by one, I find myself in quite a quandary. So I've come up with my own 10-step (I know it really should've been 12) plan to avoid the withdrawal symptoms and help me survive the strike.

1. Clear the Backlog on my DVR
Over the last few weeks as my DVR has closed in on capacity, I've wondered about giving up on some of the more mediocre shows. Did shows like Cane, Journeyman, Moonlight and Private Practice actually deserve a coveted place on my nearly full DVR? Normally, I'd have cut the ties on at least a couple of these shows weeks ago. But the strike has me running scared, so I saved them. While these shows haven't wowed me they are still better than endless hours of reality TV. So I will fill my cold, dark winter nights clearing out the drudge on my DVR. What can I say? I can't go cold turkey.

2. Catch up on Summer Blockbusters
This summer we were actually treated to some great new television shows. Add the great summer fare to a busy summer with the kids and there was little time left to hit the theaters. Now all those movies I wanted to see over the summer are being released on DVD. We'll be adding a few of these to our DVD collection and will spend several evenings catching up on what we missed this summer. Yes, I know I'm subbing one addiction for another. But hey, it's baby steps!

3. Hit the Theatres for the Holiday Movie Season
The holiday movie season has already started and I actually think there might be a few good selections out there. Our outing to see the Bee Movie with the twins was successful so I'm encouraged. See I'm progressing. At least now I'm off the couch.