Regardless of age, weekends are savored by all. It’s a chance to escape lectures or work, to spend our time doing whatever we want. Whether we spend the time with a significant other, a close friend or a family member, I’m here to help. I’ll post ideas each week for different activities. The best part? You can take all of the credit. The second best part? These activities aren’t limited to the people below. Choose whoever you want!

With your significant other- Thanks to the unseasonably warm winter we’ve been handed so far, why not try hiking? It’s not only a great form of exercise, but it’s a chance for the two of you to enjoy each other’s company amongst the trees and the squirrels. And luckily, Columbia is home to plenty of fresh air trails and parks. So instead of popping in your favorite movie on Saturday afternoon or sleeping until noon on Sunday, get out there and enjoy it. Because of the unpredictable Missouri weather, it might be May before we can get outside again.

With your girlfriends- DISCLAIMER: Since I am obviously a girl, my first few weeks will probably be limited to female readers until I can truly pick the brain of guys. Sorry boys. But, suggestions are welcome!

Every once in a while, there are times when girls just want to be girls. They want to sit around and gossip about the latest celebrity news or eat their favorite carton of ice cream shamelessly. How about manis and movie night? With Pinterest‘s popularity soaring in recent months, there’s no doubt that you can find a new and most likely awesome manicure idea. Swirls of color? Rhinestones? Newspaper clippings? The staff of VOX investigated the technique. They have it all. So call up your lady friends, pop in your favorite romantic comedy and get painting!

With your family member(s)- Skip McDonald’s or the frozen pizza this weekend. Grab your family and eat out. But not just the favorite go-to restaurant. Try something else. Indian food, sushi, get a consensus! It’s not only a great way for everyone to spend time together, but a way to try something new, maybe even create a new tradition. Another great thing? Vox has the most complete guides to eat your way through Columbia.

Thanks to the awesome nature of these blogs, I want to hear from YOU! Is there a hole-in-the-wall place you want Columbians to go to? Something you want to do with your boyfriend and he might need the written word to be convinced? Leave your comments!