So, I decided to give up TV for Lent this year. I know, I know. You’re wondering if I can even do it, given my deep and abiding love for my stories. And yes it’s really hard. Here are 10 reasons why:

1. Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D.  is just getting good!!!

SHIELD is finally poised to be all we want it to be and more!!! With the introduction of Bill Paxton’s character, John Garrett and of course the appearance of Thor’s Lady Sif, it is starting to explore a deeper relationship with the Cinematic universe that Marvel has carefully created. And I think the payoff is going to be epic!!!

2. The Walking Dead is nearing it’s season ending which usually means big shocks.

The Walking Dead is one of my faves! It manages to shock, scare and warm my heart all in the span of an hour. A difficult feat, let me tell you. And as season 4 draws to a close you just know we’re in store for some seriously mind bending zombie thrills.

3. Game of Thrones is returning!

Need I say anything else about the much anticipated return of Game of Thrones? If you don’t know why it’ll be hard not to watch, then you may have come to the wrong place.

4. How I Met Your Mother is ending.

9 years of questions are about to be answered in the next few weeks. I don’t know about the rest of you, but I think The Mother is perfect for our little Teddy Mosby. She is adorable and sweet and a little nerdy and loves a crossword. The anticipation of meeting her paid off in a big way and I have complete faith that the writers won’t let us go without tearing at our heart strings before all is said and done.

5. REVENGE

Ok, I know this is not a particularly nerdy choice, but I freakin’ love this show!!! My friend forced the first 3 episodes on me a few months back and from then on I’ve been hooked. What plot will Emily cook up for the Graysons next? Who will get caught in the crossfire? Why is Jack the perfect human being??

6. Arrow is awesome.

Arrow has been turning up the heat week after week. From the introduction of Barry Allen’s The Flash to the developments in Roy’s character with his injection of the Mirakura and subsequent induction into the cool kids club! With a Flash spin-off in the works, this show is primed to be the perfect vehicle to premier other beloved members of The Justice League. (Just imagine if the new Fox pilot, Gotham, was going to air on the CW instead. The possibilities would be endless!) Regardless, this show does not disappoint.

7. This House of Cards obsession.

I’m always on the lookout for a new show to dive into. And roughly 13 people have suggested I watch House of Cards. And now that I can’t… I really want to!!! Good thing it will be safely on Netflix waiting for my eyeballs after Easter!!

8. Frasier rewatch.

Scratch your head in confusion if you need to, but I was deep into a Frasier marathon when Lent hit. Season 8 deep. I mean… Niles and Daphne had finally declared their love for each other after 7 agonizing seasons of Niles’ adorable puppy dog longing. I used to watch this show long ago at the feet of mom and dad, but never understood it back then. It’s so high brow, no 6 year old could possibly understand. But this show stands the test of time and is really, really funny. Sure, radio shows are becoming a thing of the past but this show isn’t. If you haven’t given up TV for Lent, try watching it. I dare you not to laugh. Or to fall a little in love with David Hyde Pierce. It can’t be done!!!

9. My funny bone needs tickling.

I love comedies!!! Anything that makes me laugh is a good thing in my book. And these 4 comedies always get me going. New Girl, The Mindy Project, Modern Family and The Middle. Laughter is the best medicine and these shows are my doctors!!

10. Once Upon a Time just came back.

Oh man. This one stings. Especially since the events leading up to the winter hiatus were so dang exciting and mystifying!!! And plus… The Wicked Witch is on her way. Which mean Oz!!!! Seriously. This show had a period of episodes that were pretty missable, until it wasn’t missable anymore. (If you watch, you know what I’m talking about.)

Let me just warn you, readers… spoilers will not be tolerated. I’m basically entering a TV-less bubble. And I’m going to have to work hard not to have one or all of these shows spoiled for me. So help me out!! Don’t spoil!!!!!

With so many compelling reasons to tune in, the obvious question is “why give it up?” Well the tiny little reason of Jesus Christ. If He can give up His life for me, then I can give up the many programs that zap my brain cells! And every time I think to myself… “OMG, I need to know what’s happening with Emily and Aiden.” or “What happens after Danny and Mindy kiss???? (brain explosion)” or “Is Roy Harper the Red Arrow?” … I’ll turn my eyes to heaven and remember why I have all the wonderful things I love about this life on earth. And that will be enough for me!!

Let me know if you’ve decided to give something up for Lent and if it’s TV, what shows are you missing???