While I am single, I have general stuff to tell family/friends/associates, if needed. Having grown up in the Metroplex, I have a good, general knowledge of various areas. So, far example, Aviation museum/pilot shop/watching planes land & takeoff for Addison/North Dallas area, works around Love as well. ......
Originally Posted by boo-boo bear
BB Bear has it right. Everyone has a hobby and/or interest that a simple Google search can translate into valid time away from the home. Look at my handle here on Eccie. If I came back to the SO with ANY aviation-related activities she would/will accept it at face value. (BB Bear - Cavanaugh Flight Museum is exceptional. Have not been the Frontiers museum at Love Field.) Her only comment might be "why didn't you take me" but she is not into aviation and we both know that. So I do something nice like cook supper.
Also, I am looking at investing in rental properties, true statement, not just a cover. As I go to different weekly seminars (just Google real estate investing DFW and you will get lots of hits) I can schedule some side visits to providers. The SO sees what properties I am interested in and the work I am doing to gain knowledge and experience. So it is not unknown for me to be around different places.
Finally, (I know this is long) when I have a friend it is a friend for life even if we don't see each other for a few years. Just last weekend I had an appointment in N. Dallas and told the SO when I finished I was going to see an old friend in McKinney. I did see the friend but also managed to slip in Eccie business (BB Bears recommends remember it in six months motto). I may not remember the Eccie girl that day but I met with my buddy and that can't be unforgotten.
I would say for those that are PW'ed there is really not an answer. If your SO is on your ass for every minute and you have kids/soccer/team sports/day care/etc. then I am not sure what to tell you. For those of us that dabble in the hobby then find something that is masking your activities.
The only hole in my activities is that I sometimes say I am going into the office on a Saturday or Sunday. On those days I am free to do whatever I want. However, my SO has never called my direct company line to see if I am there. If she was to ever say "Hey, called your direct # and no answer" I would just have to tell her I left work early. She knows that I stop by a golf course / club on the way home so no big deal really.
Anyway, three whiskeys in, my 2 cents.