Editor's Note: Jewel Taylor is an independent novelist and columnist with a keen interest in relationships and romance. Her Pillow Talk column is published here on Fridays. Opinions expressed are solely her own. Email column suggestions to Jewel@JewelTaylor.com.

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Men, is the NFL lockout making you soft? Are you stuck watching “Cupcake Wars,” “Basketball Wives” or “Single Ladies” with your girl? Has Sunday become a day of salsa classes and sappy chick flicks at home?

I hate to break it to you, ladies, but the lockout will soon come to an end. But the question of the season is this: Will some currently happy relationships come crashing to an end once the lockout is no more?

Believe it or not, some couples have concerns, and I’m a little worried for them as well.

Let’s be honest, ladies. In the back of our minds, we’ve welcomed the lockout. We’ve enjoyed having the undivided attention of our men. We don’t have to ask them to take out the trash more than once, and Tyrone and John haven’t been around to eat up all our snacks. And just think of the days you may have wanted to go to the mall or to the movies with your man and he was glued to the flatscreen until halftime or the final play.

Oh, and don’t try to start a new relationship during the playoffs, or God forbid you meet a new man when the season starts. The bonding time and the availability may be slim.

But Qcity couples, there’s no need to worry. There is still hope for love, sex and romance in the Big C. There are some ways to keep the spice in your love life when the players get back on the grind. In fact, I task you ladies to try to get into the game. You may not understand the stats and plays, but I’m sure you recognize the beauty of a thick, well-skilled athlete who knows how to use his hands and looks delicious in the tight team uniform.

But on a serious note, how can you keep your relationship on track when the boys are back in town? First, avoid scheduling couple time during the game. Don’t even waste your breath. He’ll reject your request for a movie date or wonder why in the world you’re trying to seduce him during a play. Your frustration will lead to a discussion, and his refusal will lead to a fight. Then, communicating your “concerns” during the game will only make things worse. Ladies, let’s pick and chose our battles and give the guys a break.

Second, and this is for you men: Gentlemen, keep in mind that you’ve been bonding with us faithfully for months now, so it may take some time for us to understand your need to get back into the football groove. So help us out a bit. Schedule a date night during an off night – beat us to the punch. Wine us and dine us and show how much you care.

Most important, make sure you handle your business so that we’re blissfully satisfied before the players hit the field. Commit to romance time after the game, and show your lady how much you appreciate her patience.

Lastly, men, compromise a little and put the post-game show on hold. Ladies, this is your time to shine, so put on your teddy and stilettos and be prepared to give your man a post-game show of your own.

So for Lamont, James and Rob, just hang in there and keep holding strong. You’ll have your football soon. Meanwhile, it’s okay to let your lady see your softer side. They appreciate having you with them, and they’re enjoying these special times…while they last.

Best wishes Qcity couples, and as always, I wish you much love, sex and romance!

~ Jewel

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