I know, I know. Long time, no write. But there is no point. TV has gone down the crapper with writer's strike as is. So I won't pretend to be able to comment on the sad state that is my weekly viewing choices until the midseason is in full swing.

In the meantime, I know I'm late, but I'd just like to say - Happy Holidays!

Sorry about my non-blogging, but I've been sick. Stupid kids ... I mean, young members of family who I was simply delighted to help sit for all break long. Mmm-hmmm.

Anyway, House picked his team this week, and thanks to a major head cold I missed my night class for the first time (tonight will be the second) and actually got to see it. Yay! But what I want to know is your opinion on said team. I'll start. Below are my original choices and my opinion of his.

My Dream Team:

1. Mormon Dude - His dialogue with House was amazing, and I could imagine it staying entertaining for seasons to come. I'm a sucker for a good religious debate espcially involving House . Also, I'm all for anybody who is willing to punch our favorite Cranky Pants. It should probably happen more often. I know, I know - he's like a Foreman-Chase cocktail. Just add a 'fro and stir. But there was something else about this guy, and I seriously wish that they'd gotten to explore it.

2. Cutthroat **** - She was wonderful! Her interactions with all the other characters brought out something new in them, and she made everything just a little fresher. And can't you just imagine her changing, softening in some ways and hardening in others? She's so different from Cuddy and Cameron, and I think they really made a mistake in letting this strong and interesting element of the show go.

3. 6/9 - The guy has gumption. I love him for changing House's mind. How often does that happen? Exactly. Plus, as far as I'm concerned, Kal Penn could do any damn thing he wanted and I'd watch it. He's the kind of actor I can see standing toe-to-toe with Laurie and all the great talents that are on this show.

The Real Team:

1. 6/9 - Perfect.

2. 13 - Eh. It's not that she's bad. It's just that she's just like Cameron, and we already have a Cameron. And frankly, Cameron's a better Cameron than 13 is. When you're trying to shake your show up, don't make redundent characters! And the sad thing? I like Olivia Wilde. Pity.

3. Plastic Surgeon Guy - Nothing wrong with him. He didn't stand out is all. I don't remember him doing a single thing that ... ok, that's it. I don't remember him doing a single thing besides arguing with that old dude. Did he do anything else?

So what do you think? House get your first drafts or did he scrape the bottom of the barrel? Inquiring minds want to know! Meaning mine.

I have been uber-busy this week. Seriously. On Thursday, I didn't get to bed until six in the morning! Understandably, I missed some stuff, TV-wise. I do intend to post my list later this week when I get the time, but for now, I offer a different list:

Top Ten (Male) Geeks/Nerds/Loners on TV Right Now:

10. Dwight, The Office

You can't help it. You love him, too. Every time Jim sticks his stapler in jello or sends him faxes from the future, you adore him just a little more. Sure, he's completely insane. Who isn't? I like the fact that he's upfront about it, and that he's so confident in his delusions. You go, Dwight!

9. Dan, Gossip Girls

I fell for him long before I ever saw him, knowing that Penn Bagdley was the actor playing him. Now, seeing his indecision and awkwardness, I have fallen even more. You go get your girl, honey!

8. Sheldon, Big Bang Theory

He is rude and dorky and he doesn't give a damn. How many people are so secure? Plus, he made me feel like a genius that I actually got his whole "Doppler Effect" costume.

7. Jim, The Office

Yes, he really is a loser. Who else spends their time thinking up ways to mess with his fellow employees so often and so well? But if Pam doesn't care, who am I to judge? Not to mention those facial expressions ...

6. George, Grey's Anatomy

Oh, my dear George. Nothing every goes your way, does it? Still, he's so pathetic about it all you want to do is give him a big hug. And maybe some pointers. Like "Don't sleep with your friends" or "Chill. Out."

5. JD, Scrubs

The man that helped bring dorky back (yeah!). He is a narcassistic man-child, but underneath it is something more, and you can't help but root for him every time. Plus, did I mention he's friggin' hilarious.

4. Hiro, Heroes

He instantly became a favorite to all who saw him, and nothing has changed even though he has - from the chubby little cubicle worker to the famed warrior, we can't help but root for Hiro!

3. Chuck and Morgan, Chuck

They fit, man. Chuck brings the looks, the charm, the fuzzy awkwardness, the brains, and the secret government project. Morgan brings the beard.

2. Hodgins, Bones

See? Beards are so important. As are conspiracy theories, a love of bugs and dirt, and swaggering confidence. Also? Abs and money aren't hurtin' a thing. Bingo baby!

1. Ned, Pushing Daisies

Oh, like you're surprised. He's sweet, he's cute, he's crazy about the girl he can never be with. How can you help falling into those soulful brown eyes? That's right. You can't. And I won't try. Not to mention, the guy bakes! What more do you need?

Alright, all done here. I'll post my other list later. HOLLER!

I'm sick today, so we're going to make this fast. Very fast. And go -

5. 30 Rock

David Schwimmer is brilliant casting as the seriously annoying mascot. How much did you wanna punch the guy by the end of the half hour? He scared the children!

And the party. Did you see that party? Dude, I wanted to be at that party. Also brilliant of the writers to put in flashback, highlighting all the things people did that they regreted. The only thing I regret is Kenny is never having another party. He should have parties as often as humanly possible.

4. Numb3rs

I put pretty much all my thoughts on this episode in the thread. Still, I would like to resubmit how frakkin' adorable Charlie and Amita were this episode. The writers seemed to have remembered that those two are a couple, which is nice. We don't need storylines like this every week, but it's nice to have them sometimes.

3. The Office

Oh. Dear. Lord.

Did you see his face. Did you see Jim's face? Realizing that he might one day become Michael - that he was already on his way to becoming Michaell? I thought the man might actually faint. He must learn that the way to being Micheal is paved by caring too much. Don't combine birthdays. Don't jump out cars with cake, either. Just have a thirty minute break for cake and ice cream in the conference room, clap your employee on the back and say "Happy Birthday," and spend the half hour making small talk. See? See how that has no crazy in it?

Dwight's stash was so great. Mr. A Knife? Hiding a blow-dart in the toilet tank, then taking it out and using it? Dude, he's even got a sword in the ceiling! Who has a sword that doesn't own a dojo or a fencing academy or something? Dwight does. Just Dwight.

I can't even comment on Michael and the woods. I really ... I can't.

2. Chuck

Poor Chuck, having to go back to Stanford. You had to feel for the guy, you truly did. Especially when you saw how close he was to Bryce. It must have crushed him all this time, thinking that Bryce had betrayed him like that.

How the look on Casey's face when Sarah said she only had one more round? You could tell for a second he was thinking that he knew exactly who he was going to used those remaining bullets on. Still think he needs more storyline, though. They're always promoting this show as being Chuck and Sarah. Do they not know there's another agent in the mix?

Here are two remaining questions. Is it possible that Bryce gave Chuck that info because he was trying to do the right thing, or has thefrat brother changed that much in their time apart? And we now know why Bryce got Chuck kicked out - but why did he take his girl? Interesting questions, all.

1. Ugly Betty

Bouncing back from last week, Betty hits us with the wedding of the century! There's love, there's sex, there's betrayal, and there's somebody leaving a lot differently than how they went in. Everything, in short, that makes TV great.

First of, my favorite new couple. Cliff is so patient to deal with Marc that well. Personally, I'd have offed the crazy 'mo by now. But throught the roller coaster ride that was Marc, Cliff saw potential and stuck it out. Good thing, too. Marc is seeing the stuff that's on the inside now, and Cliff has a lot of good inside ... and out. I mean, the dude cleans up nice.

Next, we have Daniel and Betty. I have to say, overreact much? The girl has a reason, if you'd care to hear it. Still, I get it. Having Willy for a Mommy Dearest can't be awalk in the park. Can't be easy being the last sane member of your family either, for that matter.

Henry was fun to watch this week. Still, he's leaving, and half the time he's just far too timid for me. And frankly, no one's that nice. I hope Gio will be back soon. He's pretty much awesome.

Alright, the bad -

3. Scrubs

You don't know the pain I feel in putting this here. You can't possibly know. I own the DVD box sets for this show, guys! Ok? The only DVD box sets I own are Scrubs, Friends, and Veronica Mars. That's it! But I can't help it. It simply wasn't funny. The only thing that made me laugh the whole episode was Dr. Cox with the coffee and the intern. Well, the Janitor and Ted were decently amusing. But JD needing to figure out he needs to grow up? Now? A storyline better used a couple years ago. He has a son these days, and that just worries me.

2. Smallville

You can't just make a character disappear just because it pertains to your story. Where'd Kara go? For likefive episodes she did nothing useful, just made Clark chase her around the globe. For once, she can help, and she's MIA? Don't buy it, sorry.

1. Kid Nation

This show - and I say this with the greatest respect to it's fans- is crap on a stick.

Random winner:

Favorite Dude Talk: Hodgins and Booth, Bones

I wish these two had more scenes. Their friendship is just hilarious, built mostly on pure need for male advice but sort of advancing ever-so-slowly. I loved how Hodgins could not keep himself from laughing. Neither could I, honestly. Booth looked so uncomfortable at confronting Cam. Woobie.

Ok, that's that. I'm taking some Nyquil and then reading as much philosophy as I can before I get knocked out.

It's been a hard week for us TV watchers, I know. The biting reality of a strike has finally reached the masses, and there has been cries of outrage so loud that sometimes I imagine I can hear it all the way out here in my tiny suburb. People are asking how many episodes their favorite shows have in the can, how long this strike will last, and what will happen when the shows run out of new stuff to show. But, thankfully, mostly I've heard people asking how they can help.

This information is in several places, including on the WGA's website, TV Guide, E!, and even Wikipedia, but I thought I'd help spread the word. The best thing you can do, of course, is to join the the picket lines should one actually be in your area. Unless you're in SoCal or NYC, though, that's probably not an option.

So what's an informed but geographically handicapped TV viewer to do? Use the power of your pen, of course. Write to those large big-buck companies and tell them you aren't pleased. The people who create show should get at least get a profit every time their show is shown (actors and directors have nothing to do if nobody writes it), instead of getting shunted to side. Let the broadcasters know how you feel and help those creative minds who have spent years giving us the stuff we love - good TV.

Though you could mention that strikes aren't any reason to let such television blasphemy as Cavemen continue.

There are feedback areas on all of the broadcasting company's websites, as well as snail mail addresses for those who want it. Support the writer's - and go to Blockbusters to find DVDs of those TV shows you always meant to watch but never did. We might be here a while.

Hello, sports fans! Yes, I'm calling everyone sports fans now. If it's good enough for JD, it's good enough for me. How much does that strike suck? I support the writers, of course, but I hope that their demands are met sooner rather than later. Heroes is already considering their season finale - that's bad. And what's worse is, if we don't have regular shows, we have to watch reality TV. And that's just not cool.

Alright, here's the top of the week:

5. CSI: NY

As a shipper, this week annoyed me very much. But everything else was kind of awesome. Zombies? Curses? Voodoo? You gotta love Halloween. It's fun when the freaks and weirdos come out to play.

Let's start off Danny and Montana's case. An entire family down in one night? So it would seem, until crying behind a wall shows that the youngest survived. What with her claiming that a monster killed her, and the magical disappearing old lady with the frizzy grey hair, the case is shaping to be some sort of urban legend. But things aren't what they seem, of course, leading our detectives back thirty years to an unsolved cold case with another little girl who may not have been so lucky with their monster.

On the other hand, Mac and Stella's case was destined to become urban legend. A guy popped out of the ground. Just popped out. Like toast when the timer goes off. Just ... pop! I love forensic shows best when they give you the impossible and then solve it. It kinda makes me all tingly with the sheer coolness. Of course, this walking dead man was hardly dead in the first place, though he was certainly dead at the end of it, and he probably took his killers down with him. Most excellent.

Here's a question. There's been some debate on the subject, and I'd like anyone who wants to to weigh in. Right after Lindsay tells the sargent about the woman and the sarge strides off, Danny says "Lindsay." Does he say "Honey" after that? I thought I heard it, but I could be wrong. Sound off!

4. Chuck

The drop in this week was by no means the show's fault, merely the excellence of some others. This week was, in fact, wonderful. Points to Levi, especially - he had to do the sam non-trusting thing again, and still I bought it. He brings this quality to the character, this sweetness and struggle to make things right (partially the writers on that one), that I keep going along with it.

Oh, how I love it when the government has something crazy going on. Mad scientist in an underground lair? Wonderful! Planting bugs in lightbulbs and photo frames? Brilliant! Guy trying to blow up Texas? Well, it is where Bush is from, but I'm not mean enough to not be glad that it was too far for Mr. Trigger-Happy.

Best of all, though, was Chuck seeing himself in this guy. And it brings up an interesting element of this show. Right now, Chuck is pretty innocent, but he's also got his personal and undercover life seperate. I wonder if something will eventually happen to make him as bitter, if not as crazy, as Laszlo. It would be an interesting path for this show, and I hope it's around long enough to make that a possibility, even if they never go there. At the very least, let's hope Goldfinger makes another apperance.

3. Bones

What did I say about Halloween, huh? Scared to death is not good. Especially when snakes are involved. I HATE snakes. Who can blame that girl for freaking out.

Half of the happy, as usual, was Booth and Brennan. Sometimes this show feels too forced, like these two are being thrown together. In fact, they got a little too close at the end of the episode for my personal take-it-slow taste, but most of the time, it was great. Best moment: Brennan's gun being too big for her, something Booth pointed out last season. She looked so surprised to be wrong. This, of course, is rivaled by how Hodgins, Zack and Brennan kicked out Cam, Angela and Booth because they had to be given room to analyze. Classic squints.

Speaking of, the other half of the great was an appearence by the guest star of the month, Azura Skye. This was her second stop, after House but before Ghost Whisperer. Her PI, in conjunction with poor, frustrated Hodgela, had me laughing all episode long. And now I'm seriously curious about that husband of Angela's. Seriously, how hot can this guy be?

And if Angela doesn't want him, can I have him?

2. Grey's Anatomy

I can't believe I have to say this, but Gizzie was actually ... cute.

I'll deny ever saying that. But I don't know. That little beginning scene with the two of them almost made me think that them being a couple could work. I didn't hate it. And for the first time in a long time, their scenes together made me laugh, instead of making me cringe. I don't care what form that comes in. I just want to like them again.

Dr. Hahn is so going to be my new favorite. How awesome is she? Kicking a**, taking names, and butting in on the "Gentlemen's Evening." It did sound kind of kinky, didn't it? Plus, how much did the McDoctors look an overly-beautiful couple when they were talking to Hahn? Maybe that's what Shonda intended all along ... the only two men to get McNames, besides the fleeting McVet. Maybe it's a hint.

Callie and Mark, though? Priceless. Somebody needed to be on that girl's side. George holding on to that dress was endless hilarity. So glad he let go first. If that other woman had won, I would thrown something at my TV, swear to God.

Meredith has got to get a grip. Mommy in a bag one week, Derek problems the next. Girl needs a vacation. Now.

1. Pushing Daisies

Do I even need to explain? Ok! I will!

Lee Pace is my acting god. I have never felt sorrier for a grown man in my life. To think that his dad abadonded him for a new family at the same time he was dealing with his new gift and it's implications! Which led to a great scene with him and the aunts. Those two are starting to grow on me. And, eventually, they led him back to his investigation.

Another great thing about this week? Olive was involved! I hated that she was always on the fringe of everything. Plus, now Chuck has someone that's not her quasi-boyfriend and aPOed PI to talk to. Interesting fact, though. Chenoweth is a full ten years older than Pace. I knew there was an age gap, but wow. Kind of funny she's chasing him. Like amini Cougar. Heh.

And, once again, great mystery. The flaming horse was a nice touch. Not to mention all the women I know who were just like that mother. Like my mother. Except that mother liked her son, where I think my mom views me as more of an Olive. Oh, well. She was fun to watch, at any rate.

Now, here's the not-so-good:

3. Ugly Betty

Not up to snuff this week. You can't have good TV when it keeps getting interrupted by musical numbers. I love Wicked, I truly do. It's my second favorite musical, in fact (RENT being number one, of course). But it should not be mixed with TV, unless it's only used for a couple minutes. Not most of the episode.

Not enough Cliff, either. He skyrocketed to my fav character, and I have a feeling we have limited time with the guy. So show him more!

2. Smallville

Is this a soap opera or what? When did Clark become his cousin's baby sitter? And why do I feel as though I just watched some wacked out version of Full House? Good news, though - the previews for next episode look promising. Perhaps the characters will find some footing at last, and Clark will be the star again. Just a suggestion.

1. Kitchen Nightmares

As you can probably tell, I'm giving a show or twoI've never tried before a chance each week. This was the pick of the week, along with Samantha Who? Samantha I'm loving. This was intensely boring. Not doing that again.

Random pick:

Favorite Moment of the Week: JD's Kid, Scrubs

Scrubs has not been on it's game as of late. The comparison with Turk's baby being born last year to JD's proves it. The jokes were forced at times, and Turk wasn't there for JD when his kid was being born? Really? It took the news of pregnancy to get JD to spend a second away from Turk in his time of need.

Sorry, anyway. In spite of how I felt about the rest of the episode, it was so cute when JD's kid was born! I love the little thing already. And I'm glad that JD and Kim's relationship wasn't prolonged or bitter. It wrapped up nicely, which I hope will make JD open to other options. Not just dating, but getting used to being a dad as the center of his focus, rather than a screwed up relationship.

Alright, all done. I'm inventing a ranking system, actually, so I can be a little bit more fair about this. Also, any shot you guys know where I can find House epis? I can't blog it unless I see it, and I can't see it if I've got class. Thanks. I'm out!

In the back of our minds, we all knew it was coming. We just hoped this day would be avoided, that love of TV would temper the tempers and it would all go away. That maybe, just maybe, the small screen had a little magic left to make tiny miracle.

Turned out that was a bust.

Early (early!) this morning, WGA announced it recommending a strike. What does this mean for our favorite TV shows? Oh, so many things! None of these programs seem to have their full script orders, meaning production on final episodes could end up months behind. This hurts the new shows that are just getting off the ground, and shows on their final run, like my personal favorite Scrubs, who are trying to make the best last season possible. Kind of hard to do with no writers.

But don't fear. There is a silver lining. Wondering why the fabled "Axe" has only struck twice this year (Nashville and the endless horror that was Viva Laughlin)? It's because of the impending strike. Networks have held on to shows longer than usual so they'd have something new to show in those fuzzy future times when the tried-and-true placeholders are on hold. Basically, it means that they're giving all your new favs a second chance. Put it to use! If you love a newbie that might get axed, spend this extra time on promoting it, instead of chucking your TV into a dumpster.

And here's an interesting idea - if they prolong the season, we may get new epis to the end of June or later, perhaps resulting in a shorter hiatus time this coming summer. There's an obscure silver lining for you.

Hello, fellow TV potato heads! While I did not get any comments last time (which made me very sad, to say the least), my blog got a lot of views. I know you're reading out there! Not to mention, this is far too fun to give up quite yet. So I will continue with another week of the best of the best andthe"I can't believe I watched that!" Things are more interesting as I go off my original TV shows of the season and begin to focus on those I actually think are worth the time and effort, even if they don't show it each week. Let's start with the good, shall we?

5. Ghost Whisperer

I doubt this show will ever pop up on the countdown again - I only started watching it because I read that Jay Mohr had signed up for the supernatural softy. Still, this one was fun. And I mean in a shivering, finger-tapping, "Don't go in there, you idiot!" kind of way. This show shines the most when it's focusing less on the sappy Ghost of the Week and more on the screwy happenings of Grandview. Which, happily, this epi had in spades.

Most families pass on family heirlooms. An old trunk. Grandma's wedding gown. That painting you take to Antique Roadshow and get paid thousands for by a thin man with large glasses that you put away for a downpayment on your hot tub. Melinda got two very special heirlooms: an old locket and the ability to converse with the reluctantly deceased. Ah, but we already knew that, didn't we? New spin, my friends. This gift isn't just from Granny Gordan. In fact, it goes back many years ... all the way back, in fact, to a young woman named Tessa living in Grandview.

Just Grandview, the underground scary theme park version.

No teary pleas for living relatives to just understand this time. Instead, Melinda goes to cross over nearly an entire church congregation in one go. What follows is just plain good TV. Near death misses, presumed dead fathers reappearing in a suspicious manner, a truly powerful ghost, and the teaming up of three of my favorite sidekicks in the world. All in all, in was a bright light at the end of my week, and has renewed my interest in the program altogether.

4. How I Met Your Mother

You had me at "Blah-Blah." No, please, just call her "Blah." And Blah may be a hottie, but she's got just a smidge too much crazy for Barney's comfort - or Ted's, come to that.

What can I say? The thing is genius. I love the way that it takes advantage of it's format in such an interesting way. For one, there was that sandwhich gag. It showed one of the best parts of the show. The commitment these actors have to the totally insane is throughly watchable, and the care the dad takes, when he can remember, to shield his kids from his former bad ways is a great way to sneak those things and words which must not be said on network TV right in there, without actually doing or saying them. Remember last year's "grinch" incident, if you will.

Ok. I got a little off track. Back to the episode. How fun was it to see how everyone met? Not to mention those throwbacks to Goth!Lilly, Stoner!Marshall, and Wino!Ted. Robin made the most of what they gave her, though I wish desperately for her to take her gun and hold it to a writer's head and make that hopeful romance with her and Barney work out (sixteen "no's" just can't be a coincidence), or at least give some better air time. Still, the man on his game was none other the man of the power suit, Barney. He is such a ridiculous character, but embraces himself so throughly, it makes me do the same. Enjoy!

3. Chuck

Where are the ratings for this, people? This show consistantly brings the best of the best, and it consistantly gets ignored for it. We start off with A Night of Morgan. What could be better, right? A Night of Morgan with fireworks and a Chinese spy, of course!

The case ensues, but with a twist. Darn that sweet nature of Chuck's! He tries to help an old man in a wheelchair escape gunfire, and accidently signs an innocent man's death warrent in the process. He becomes determined to rectify his error at any cost, dealing with his agents and the spy as well as he can to get them to mount a singular rescue mission. He does so, but ends up having to save their butts with some of those same, finger-eating firecrackers.

But the strength of the episode comes from Chuck's family issues. It's nice to see a someone with a secret have a realistic problem with his civilian relations, even if the show isn't actually realistic. Still, I love the dynamic with his sister and his best friend, and the dynamic between the two of them as well. I can tell this is going to be enjoyable to watch.

Seriously, though. Tell your friends! I've got enough of my best shows ripped out from under me. Don't do it to me againg. Or Zachery Levi, for that matter. Look at that face!

2.Ugly Betty and Grey's Anatomy

Yeah, yeah, yeah, it's cheating. Well, I don't care. They're on the same night and station, so I'll allow it this time, and how about you do the same? Agreed? Wonderful!

First, UB. I wasn't a fan of Henry for the longest time, but he's a-growin' on me. He's a sweetheart, but this new dad and cheating girlfriend thing is bringing out the tiniest of edge, which makes me happy. Now this triangle they've got in the works might be a true sparring match instead of a guy who knows what he wants stepping all over a guy who can't raise his pinky in protest. Plus that ending kiss was all sorts of cute.

Meade family disfunction reigns! I'm so glad that they're fighting again. Sorry to say it, but how much more awesome are they when they're going for the jugular? I really can't wait to see the fallout. Also, it's good to see that Justin's getting some real parenting again. But my favorite of the night goes to Cliff. He had better be around to stay, at least for a few episodes, because he and Marc are all kinds of beautiful together. Or, more precisely, Beauty and a cuddly lil' Beast.

Grey's had bang-up night as well. Christina and Callie? Who knew? Oh, wait. I did! Hold back those "It's so OBVIOUS!"s you want to throw my way, as well as the spoiler alerts. Maybe so, but I called the reason they got along so very well, and I'll be proud of myself if I want to. And I do. Plus it brings up the spot-on dynamics of the evening with Callie and Christina, Callie and Izzie, and Christina and Izzie. I'm glad somebody is on Callie's side. She lost a husband. Least she can get is a friend. If not a hottie-hot-hottie in McSteamy - but that's for another time, or perhaps not at all.

In other news, George was good for what he was in, but I wish we'd gotten some time with him and Callie. Meredith made me warm to her with steady intensity as she trick-o-treated for ears and walked around the hospital with a "bag full of mommy." It's good the McDocs are starting up that friendship again. And, best of all, Ava's back! I adore seeing Alex's softer side, and I want to see him and his new beau more often.

And for number one ...

1. Pushing Daisies

I'll say it again - I love this show! I know, I know. When it finally has a bad episode, it'll disappoint me ever-so-much. In the meantime, I love it. I do, I do, I do. How to enumerate the ways I want to have it's little fairy-tale forensic children? Ned's jealousy and romanticism made for a humerous and sweet touch, especially when countered with Emerson's greed and Chuck's wish for just a simple touch for her Prince Charming. Olive and the aunts were wonderful, and more singing! Yay! Oh, and how happy was that tale of the week? So sigh slash giggl-worthy. I'm such a pile of goo when it comes to this show, I have to stop. Let's move on to the not-so-giddy.

3. Smallville

Hello? Paging the writers, producers, and all collaboraters of Smallville. This is a show about CLARK KENT. Aka KAL-EL. Aka SUPERMAN.

Not Lana Lang.

Up until Lana and Kara showed up, Clark had a good thing going with his castmates. They had their own stuff, but kept it centered around the big guy. Now Lois barely gets face time, Chloe has no time to get over her boyfriend, and it's time somebody realized that Lionel's gone. Sweet Lana is fake and shovel Lana is almost worse. Oh, for the days when she loved Lex! I'd even take the days when she sent her BF a love-note tape while staring at Clark's abs through his wet t-shirt. I think she's outlived her relevance as a love interest, and it's time somebody recognizes that.

2. Bionic Woman

It was better, I'll give you that. It might actually be turning around the bend. Still, it needs work. Serious, serious work. I don't know, though, if they'll get with it in time before the axe claims another victim. Viva Laughlin is standing at the edge of the light, waving away frantically for some company ...

1. So You Think You Can Dance?

Who told me this was a good show? Who? Yipee! The washed-up stars can do the tango! Sorry, sorry. We all have our guilty pleasures, and I'm piling on somebody else's for no reason other than it's not my thing. Suffice it to say, I won't be tuning in again.

And the random winner is:

Favorite Expression, Jim Halpert, The Office

Did you see his face when Meredith called him to her car? Pure terror, I tell you! Such a sweetheart for making that sacrifice for Pam. And they're riding in together! Say it with me now, people ... awwwwww!

That's it for today (tonight). I need sleep, and I need it bad. So do me a favor and comment! And answer this question - the axes have been stayed by the impending strike, but with only two shows down for the count, the stations have got to be craving the blood ofnew meat. Who do you think has only so much time? But one bit of great news - my baby ... er, Pushing Daisies ... has been picked up! Good times!

So here's the deal. I've decided to start doing something each Sunday, something I kind of already do, but have never put down on paper- let alone the blogosphere. Every week I'm going to rank this week's TV episodes, five best, three worst, and one miscellaneous category I'll chose every week. Remember, though, if I don't watch it, I can't rate it. So while I don't have many cable channels, if you want me to rate one of those shows, tell me where I can find it. And if you want me to rate one of the basic channel shows, convince me to see it. But don't try and make me watch reality shows that aren't Idol or Runway, because I won't do it. I just won't.

Here are this weeks Top 5.

5. How I Met Your Mother

First off the bat, it's the little comedy that could. This was a particularly good week for the gang- well, maybe not for them, but certainly for everybody watching. Classic Barney makes dating a competition and Classic Robin gets freaked out over a kid- and then dumped by him.

Favorite moments include:

1) Robin's "but ..."

2) "Getting the kid is winning?"

3) "Are you a model?"

4) The entire competition, with special emphasis on tiny Barneys and tiny dancing Ted.

5)Robin being featured in Ted's kid's drawings.

4. Grey's Anatomy

Honestly, it wasn't the best of the best for this show, but it lacked enough Gizziegate for me to still be happy with it. Callie's reaction to all of this was so raw, so perfect. Her sitting in the same place on the bed where she started, her face almost the exact same expression of hurt, her hair all wrinkled from the rain - if you do love the Gizz, how could you not feel for her? In addition, this is the first time since she slept with George that I've felt sympathy for Izzie, which makes me extremely happy. I love Izzie. Though she probably should have thought more about who she told. Did she honestly think Alex would take it well?

Anyway, more with the other characters. When do you think Derek will finally get tired of this whole "Sex and Mockery" thing? I'm glad he's starting to grow a pair when it comes to Meredith, because I'm tired of seeing her yank on his leash all the time. Patient of the week was a good one, too, tying in with the story line and adding it's own sense of loss. Poor girl, giving up her curves for an ungrateful, smoke-stinkin' man. I'm surprised Bailey didn't kick his face in, but I suppose she was a little worried about Callie doing it literally.

And, finally, there's Christina, trying so hard to protect her friend but not a damn clue how to do it, nor how to teach numbers one through four. Hopefully, she'll learn soon, because I can really see her being good at it, if she gives it an honest chance.

3. Chuck

Oh, yes. It was pitch-perfect Monday night on the Nerd Heard, my friends. Chuck's insecurities are well-based and sweet, even if they do get him into some major trouble. I finally identified with his BFF when that darn Corena ... Carena ... skinny ninja chick played him for his backpack as temporary stolen diamond holder. And that ending ... the sweet pizza bringing, the bit about the olives, and Sarah whispering her real (middle) name ... it was corny, but in the best possible way. My only regret is how little we saw Casey. He may be an a-hole with a horrible future mission towards our boy, but he's amusing.

Sidebar: How much do you love the casting on this show? Zachery is absolutely adorkable as the Nerd Herd boy, Adam is hilarious (especially while leaping over cars to catch shoplifters) and Yvonne has grown on me with each episode.

Favorite moment of the week, however, goes to Chuck. He's a learner! Throwing the plate to stop the ninja both proved that he can pick up some tricks and that he's already come a ways from the first time a chick attacked him in a ski mask. I don't want him to become a super spy, but I do like the idea that he will, in the not-too-distant future, be able to take care of himself if he needs it.

2. The Office

I'll admit it - I'm a new fan. This might, in fact, contribute to why I loved this episode so damn much. But I think there may be another reason, which is this:

Jam. On Dwight's beet farm. In the Irrigation Room.

Is it really necessary to say more? I will anyway. Does Angela have some sort of amnesia, or did she simply not give Garbage a good enough look-over last time she saw him? Or does Andy's catching of the cat signify more than Dwight using it to replace her old cat, now a bit more frozen but no longer smelly! And poor Oscar, dealing with Michael and his (and Jan's) debts. Loved the shot of Michael running like the wind. Best of all, however, is Jim's little speech to Dwight. Not only do I love those two together, but it led up to that sweet Jam moment.

Aw, look. I made a funny.

1. Pushing Daisies

What can I say? Oh, wait. I already said it. To read my view of this week's wonderful episode, go to the review I posted earlier this week. All I'll say right now is: Plastic wrap kisses are CUTE!

Now, on to the worst of the week ...

3. Bionic Woman

It started so well, but is going so badly. I get bored every time I watch this and immediately flip to something else - a statement made sadder by the fact that I don't have time for this during the week, so I watch on my laptop on the weekends. The competition is old "Sex and the City" episodes on Fanpop!, and still it loses. The show needs to learn to come into it's own, and soon, before everyone gives it up as a bad job.

2. Big Shots

Unfortunately, this was this show's last shot with me before I actually did give it up. Hint: it did not go well. Michael Vaghn, Chris Titus, what are you doing? The dialogue is stale, the plot is done, and I didn't get minutes in before I started using my iPod's solitaire game to distract myself from it's total lack of ... anything. Big Shots is out.

1. Carpoolers/Cavemen

This week, against my better judgment, I gave them a chance. I don't know why. Some of the worst television I've ever seen, and that includes any show where someone eats a bug.

Random winner of the week:

Favorite First Kiss: Dan and Serena, Gossip Girl

This show is quickly scaling my favorites list, and Dan and Serena are the main reason. Especially Dan. Penn has been one of my favorite actors since he was the only interesting thing in that oh-so-crappy-I-can't-even-remember-it's-name show the WB had on a few years back, andin this role he truly shines. Dan is sweet and down-to-earth, perfect for that high-flying yet reformed rich bi-otch Serena. And that first date, with that steamy yet lovable first kiss, really cemented this as a must-watch for me.

Let's see how next week will change, with the return of House,Bones, Scrubs, and hopefully Callie's right hook. Or how about Bell coming to Heroes or the possibility of me getting home in time to actually catch "Reaper?" Also, who will make the worst list now that three of the competitors are removed from the possibilities for good.And do you agree with my choices, orare you thinking I must have missed something not to pick your show? Comment, please!