So Maybe I Am a Bit Manly

Over the past two months I've been talking a lot about being a Hybrid Husband.  I've given examples of how hybrid husbands are different than their ancestors, the "typical" husband, the "old-fashion" husband.  I most definitely consider myself part of this new hybrid husband evolution.  It's not that HH's are half male and half female but that they still retain some positive characteristics of the stereotypical husband while at the same time exhibiting characteristics of the next evolution: caring, teammate with his wife, nurturer of his children, participates equally in all household duties whether or not he works full time.  An HH doesn't just walk through the door in the evening with a paycheck, stroll to the fridge, grab a fistful of beer, and then plop down on his La-Z-Boy while the hypnotizing flicker of the television forces his mind to shut out the environment around him.  But an HH can at times resemble a typical man.  He can at times enjoy that side of himself.

One way I display my "manly" side is through football.  I LOVE football.  I love playing it, watching it, day dreaming about it, and studying it.  For that level of infatuation, this time of year is perfect!  My particular obsession, as far back as I can remember (which is the 1984 Super Bowl), has been the Seattle Seahawks.  I've been a fan since a child, through the good years and the bad years.  Jim Zorn quarterbacked the start of my fascination, Russell Wilson has kept it going.  In 1986, after diving into a box of Topps Football cards I received for Christmas, I yelled in excitement when uncovering a Bruce Scholtz card (the entire scene was caught on video).  For those who don't share the same Seahawks neurosis, Bruce Scholtz was an offensive lineman - no flair, just a big dude who pushed other big dudes out of the way.  I love the Hawks.  They've been a part of my life forever, so now, when they are finally showing some potential long lasting dominance, I feel like all my hard work of enjoyment is paying off.  I know, to some, this all sounds a bit silly, but everyone has something in their life that consistently entertains them.  Without entertainment life would be bland.  This is my "thing".  And it's also one of the characteristics that balances my manly side with my evolved side.

What makes all of this even more special is that now, after 11 years together, my wife is beginning to show interest in football too, especially the Seattle Seahawks.  She's purchased a few Hawks shirts to wear on game day and she's cheered them on with me at CenturyLink field.  Don't misunderstand though, she is nowhere near my level of obsession, but it's satisfying to enjoy a passion with your spouse and best friend.  Who knows, maybe she is evolving as well.  Maybe she's on the road to becoming a Hybrid Wife.  Either way I love her dearly.  But I also remember to leave room in my heart for Sherman, Wilson, Lynch, and Harvin.

Thanks for reading.

Peace Out,

Nathan J.