Okay. I’ll be honest with you. I barely recognized anyone one the “Favorites” tribe because I have tended to give up on a season 2-3 episodes in for the last couple of years. I just haven’t been intrigued or interested by any of the twists or contestants themselves. I definitely haven’t been excited about a season. But last night? As my husband and I watched some great gameplay unfold - I thought, “THIS is why I used to love this show.”

I knew beyond a shadow of a doubt that when Chet failed that challenge so miserably - that he’d be out. Survivors like to choose the easy out that everyone can agree on. He would have required no strategy or convincing to the majority of the tribe. Easy choice. The end. Until Mike started trying to spearhead some safety measure to make sure that all bases were covered if Kathy found the other immunity idol. By holding those lectures he made Joel feel like he was trying to take the leadership role. This flagged dangerous to Joel because he wanted to be the leader. So, he spearheaded his own campaign to get Mary - Mike’s main ally - out of the game. AND IT WORKED.

Now - I think Joel could have been a little more gentle about convincing people. He might have been too, “We can’t let him control us! Rawr!” to give him much support later. I mean - if they didn’t like Mike controlling them - they won’t like Joel doing it either. But - if you paid attention at the end credits - Joel did NOT vote for Mary. He voted for Tracy. Now - is he hoping to be able to claim ignorance by doing that? Who knows. But it made an interesting finale to a great strategy. How will the fallout shape up and will Joel continually claim not to have voted for Mary and be able to be telling the truth? It’s interesting and we loved watching it all unfold.

Of course - I’m not really on Team Joel yet - something about him to rubs me wrong. But most of the time the interesting players are not the ones I like. And I’m okay with that. As long as they don’t make me hate them, I’ll still enjoy watching them play.

Last night’s tribal council was a perfect one for a team of fans. It shows that a true fan can recognize a dangerous leader before he takes complete control of a tribe, and knock him down a few notches in advance. I tribe of newbies might not have cared what Mike was planning and would have just written Chet down to keep things stable. These guys didn’t. Which means this could be an even more interesting season than I had predicted.

Let’s hope.

So - the WGA strike is officially “over” and the writers have been back at work for at least a day now. Some of the showrunners went back to work on Monday, but most went back yesterday. Now that the excitement has cooled - here are a few links for you to peruse to see exactly what this all means for the average viewer and the shows you watch.

• Here’s an updated list of returning shows by Maureen Ryan (The Watcher). It’s pretty comprehensive, which also makes it a bit overwhelming. I had forgotten about some of those shows.
• “Lost” definitely returning to work and cranking out as many episodes as it can for the rest of the season.
• “Saturday Night Live” will return February 23rd with host being WGA member Tina Fey. It had better be good.
• CBS announces official return dates for many of their shows. Now I’m hoping the other networks follow suit.
• ABC does announce shows returning in 2008/09 season. I’m upset I have to wait that long for new episodes of “Pushing Daisies” - but I’m glad it’s at least coming back.

I finally caught up on my television this week. Last night I watched last week’s “Eli Stone” and I now feel like - after two episodes - I can profess my love for this quirky ABC drama. And now? It’s time for me to make sure you’re watching it.

The basic gist of the show is this: Eli Stone is a lawyer for a huge firm making good money, “making the rich get richer,” (as he puts it) when suddenly has visions of George Michael singing to him. Long story short…he finds out he has an inoperable brain aneurysm. This is probably causing the hallucinations. However, as his new spiritual guide/beer-drinking acupuncturist points out: It does not explain the weird coincidences pointing him in certain directions in association with the visions. By the end of the second episode, Eli is starting to believing listening to using these visions actually helps him help others. He is doing good and he decides that is what his life should be about. Visions or not.

The show is very funny…first and foremost. And lately - I like that in my dramas. I get enough of the serious from my CSIs and Law & Orders. This show makes me laugh but it’s not to over the top with the inspirational messages. It’s got a great cast led by Jonny Lee Miller. His assistant, the hysterical Loretta Devine, is fantastic. I’m not sure yet what I think of the actress or the character of his fiancé, but the rest I enjoy.

So - the new episode airs tonight at 10/9c. Why don’t you give it a try?

Once again - the results of this challenge surprised me. I was impressed with several of the designs. I say it every week, but the versatility of some of these designers impresses me. I mean - wrestling gear? Really? How did any of them not immediately panic and the mere thought of such a task?

I am not shocked Chris won, I thought his design for his client was perfect, but Jillian’s was my favorite over all. I know part of that is client-based, but I thought she managed unique detail and still gave the girl what she wanted. But my favorite part of her design was how flustered it made Michael Kors! Seeing him fumble about being out of his element was priceless. It made the challenge worth it right there.

I’m glad Ricky was sent home, to me he’s the least talented of the remaining contestants. However, I really thought Rami’s was the worst design. Yes - Ricky’s looked like a bathing suit - but something about Rami’s just screamed “Barbie Doll Costume” - and that’s not a good thing. Of course - I’m no fashion maven so these opinions could conflict with many - but from my couch in my pajamas, Rami’s ranked at the bottom for me.

Can’t wait for next week!

Entertainment Weekly put this show on it’s “Must List” a few issues ago and I couldn’t have been happier. It makes me feel a lot better about my obsession knowing that the professionals approve. “Make Me A Supermodel” is the show I really look forward to every week, and I could not be more surprised.

Now - considering I have no fashion background or interest - a week focusing on the catwalk is not my favorite. I have a hard time recognizing the “good” characteristics from the “bad” that the coaches and critics mention. I was - however - thrilled to see my boy Ben get rave reviews. On the other hand - I was very sad to see Ronnie in the bottom three. If American sends him home, I’m going to be very upset. I understand their view of him being a bit too All-American and not edgy enough for the catwalk - but I think that is something that can be fixed with styling. He’s such a natural I would hate to see him go, especially because that would mean Katy stays and I am ready for her to be gone. Even I, the non-expert, feels she is way out of her league with the others on this show.

I’ll be honest. I was dreading watching this premiere because of Jonny Fairplay. Hearing him speak and seeing him on my television puts me in a very bad mood. I was disappointed they chose him for this season because - in my mind - it ruined what could be a great concept. I actually fast-forwarded through a few confessional scenes with him in it - just so I could avoid hearing him speak.

So - needless to say the tribal council pleased me greatly. It may have disappointed many of you looking for good drama - but I’m happy to now just focus on the show.

Is it just me - or is it surprisingly difficult notto root for the Fans? They are such underdogs and I found myself rejoicing when they won the challenge. I don’t think I realized I’d so whole-heartedly be on their side. But I was! Of course - it helps that there are several on there that have potential to be contestants I really root for. It’s hard to judge the first episode, but I think I’m going to like Erik, Jason, Joel and Mikey B. I haven’t decided about any of the girls but Kathleen yet because she was the one they focused on the most. And boy - I want her gone. Not because I don’t like her as a person or contestant, but she makes me very uncomfortable with constantly putting her foot in her mouth. I agree that it’s too bad she found the immunity idol.

Overall - I was pleased with the episode. I’m looking forward to watching this one play out.

Depending on who you ask and how you define “Over” - it looks like the WGA strike may finally be ending as a tentative deal was reached last night and voted on by the WGAW and WGAE. It appears that the only think keeping the writers from writing is the “official” vote of the members that is supposed to be completed in 48 hours. Meaning that the writers could return to work as early was Wednesday, according to some sources.

Now - if you’re like me the important question is - When/If will my shows return? The best article I’ve found so far lining up the potential returns is here. It is broken down by network and by groups of shows that still have new episodes to air, shows that will definitely get back into production mode for this season, and shows that will probably still wait to return in the fall.

TV Guide has revealed the new season’s Big Brother houseguests! I normally wouldn’t be this excited about a season of Big Brother but with the scripted television being at a bare minimum, I need anything I can get. My favorite is picture here: James. His descriptions says, “21, originally from Sarasota, Florida, currently biking around the world.” Um. Really? As in…currently? Wouldn’t that mean he was not in the BB House? Unless, of course, that house was on wheels? Interesting.

Check them out and report back - what do you think so far? And have you seen this promo? It alludes to the changes this season will introduce.

Looks like there will be an interesting element of “teams” this season. And check out the Official CBS Site which has pictures of the house. Next Tuesday. Are you ready?

Oh! Oh! Oh! It was soooo good. What did you think? Let’s get right to the meat, shall we?

Who will be the Oceanic 6? Obviously Hugo, Jack and Kate so far. Who else? Is the dead person Jack saw in the coffin at the end of last season one of them? I’m assuming, based on the Dead Charlie Visiting Hurley scene, that there are others still on the island that the Oceanic 6 are not talking about. But possibly will want to get back to? Did you get the same vibe? And I also get the impression that Hurley thought going with Locke was a bad idea, even though it felt like the right thing to do on the island. I wonder what will come of that. So - who made it off the island and who/why stayed. I guess those will be the big mysteries of this season. The flash-forwards are such an awesome touch because I’m already wondering who will be featured next week. Will it be a new member of the Oceanic 6 - or will they maybe flash forward to the island and show us what’s going on there in the future? That would be SOOOO cool.

What did you think? How did you interpret some of the clues?

Somewhere along the L&O road, I ditched the original version and replaced it with Law & Order: SVU. I still caught a few episodes a year, but I had really stopped watching it all together about two or three years ago. I’m not sure why, I enjoyed the show, I think I just lost interest.

When I started reading about the new casting choices for this season - my interest was peaked. I liked the casting choice of Jeremy Sisto and I thought I’d give this season’s premiere a chance.

I’ve seen every episode so far. I’m in love with this cast. I think a few other characters are new as well, but since I haven’t watched it in years, everyone is new to me. The only face I recognized was Jack McCoy - but he was not the D.A. when I was watching it. I’m glad he’s still on the show though - and I think he’s great as the D.A. this season.

Have you watched it all along? What do you think of the changes? I’m curious what an Law & Order vet would think. Do you like Detective Lupo? Do you think the other changes are good? I’m not sure if I’ll stick with the show after the strike, when my other scripted favorites come back on - but I think I might. I’m enjoying it so far and would love to hear what you think.

I don’t know about you - but I am uber-excited about tonight’s premiere of Lost. I’m not sure if the strike has made me appreciate all new scripted programming more, or if I would be this excited regardless. Either way - it can’t get here soon enough for me. The above image is from this season’s promotional poster. Do you see the city in the water? There’s a lot of speculation online that the city pictured is Tokyo. Let the clues and guesses begin!

If you want a primer to catch up on the last three seasons in 8 minutes - watch this video.

Now - the best part - the extended trailer for the season beginning tonight.

Now tell me - how excited are you?

I know a lot of fans have been criticizing this season, but can I just say - I’ve been really pleased with it. I was really worried that last night’s episode was going to end in a White Snake Video Disaster. But you know? I actually liked all three of the above dresses. I agree that the frayed edge on Chris’s dress was a little tacky, but the rest of the design was pretty good. The three dresses above show the versatility of these designers. They all used the same fabric, same shade, and even did similar shapes in their designs. Yet - somehow - we get three completely different results. I’m just impressed this year, to say the least.

I agreed with the booting of Victorya’s this week. I didn’t like her design - nor did I like the execution. I don’t think she has been very consistent, so I actually don’t mind at all that she’s gone. Last week, I thought Kit had a bad week, but she’s usually good so I didn’t want to see her gone. Victorya? I’m fine with her not being in the finals. And in reality - I’m glad Ricky had a good week. While I don’t think he’s consistent, when he’s good, he’s really good.

This show is tough, like any other talent-based reality TV show, I find myself torn between rooting for someone’s talent v/s against their personality. I really think Christian is amazing behind the sewing machine. But man - his attitude makes me want to ring his little neck sometimes. Same with Sweet P and Ricky. I don’t think they’re that talented, but I love their willingness to take advice and their modesty. I am torn between rooting for the people who are talented enough to win, or the people I’d like to see win. In the end - I always root for the talent (Rami, Christian, Jillian) - but I think I would be fine if anyone else won because I like the other contestants personality. I’m a soft-hearted fan, what can I say?

I mentioned at MamaPop that NBC has been thinking about cutting their typically outlandish Upfront showing in May. Now, it seems they’ll be cutting the Pilot process all together. Evidently, the cost of these pilot episodes have doubled in the last three years. While they were originally intended to earn money enticing advertisers early, they are now proving to be much more of a cost. “So you’re spending money on programs you’re not going to get,” Jeff Zucker (chief executive of NBC Universal) said on Tuesday. This is an area all networks have considered cutting back in, but NBC seems to be the first to make such a huge committed jump away from the Pilots. Of course - as Zucker pointed out - NBC has been suffering for years and decisions like these are made even easier from that perspective.

Mr. Zucker acknowledged that one reason for the decision was that NBC has suffered from weak prime-time ratings for the last several seasons. “Sometimes you see the world from a different perspective when you’re flat on your back,” he said. “At NBC Entertainment we’ve been flat on our backs for the last few years.”

Well - that’s one way to put it.

I remember the first season of Trading Spaces. My husband (boyfriend at the time) and I would invite a neighboring couple over and we’d eat breakfast and watch the show on the weekends. We were all renters at the time and dreamed of the day we’d own homes on the same street and apply to be on the show. We watched the show over the years as the rest of the country joined us in the fervor. It was the first time any of us developed an interest in interior design, and by the time Paige Davis became a household name, we acted as though we were interior designers.

Then - someone decided the best thing to do with this popular show - would be to 1) Saturate the market by airing it (or it’s variations) fifty times a day and 2) Change it. I stopped watching it pretty early in the transformation. I got irritated with the various off-shoots of the show, and I actually got annoyed by how many shows they added to the season. Then, a while after I had given up on the show, I heard that Paige Davis was being “let go” in some sort of quick decision that made me say, “Glad I’m not watching that anymore.”

I’ve caught it a few times since, but without a host? It really seemed like a different show. I was glad to hear I wasn’t the only one who left the show as it seemed the record-breaking numbers dwindled as quickly as they arrived. And every other network in town monopolized on the craze and other shows were born to give the fans what they had sought out of the original.

Well - after three years without her - Paige Davis is returning to Trading Spaces.

She returns Saturday to begin hosting 13 new episodes that will re-establish the series’ winning format - two houses, two days, $1,000. She will also be backed by some of the original cast and a new production company.

Although, it won’t be the exact same format. Instead of friends/neighbors - the two teams will be comprised of conflicting pairs. Divorced couples, bickering friends, bosses and employees. The kind of change that still keeps the show basic, but could spice up the outcome. I’ll tune in, at least once. But - Like Paige - I feel a little burned myself. They took one of my first TV obsessions and screwed with it. I’m not sure if I’m going to give them a second chance. Will you?

Okay. Let me start by saying that I am usually the one who argues against those reality TV contestants who try to be noble and say things like, “I played with character,” because if I were playing for a million dollars? Or even less? I’d throw character out the window. It’s all about the prize, baby! Screw morals and ethics!

But - in my opinion - this show should be different. The contestants on The Biggest Loser typically discuss how or why they deserve to be there. How this show saves their life. This show, to me, should be about more than the prize money. So, just like when it happened last season, seeing people throw the weigh-in angers me and makes me yell at the people I don’t know inside the television.

When the contestants first started talking about throwing the weigh-in to get rid of the Black team, I was so livid. I am not a huge fan of the Black Team, but they have been working their ass off and anyone who works that hard deserves to be there. In my opinion, they deserve to be there more than the people throwing the weigh-in. Now, I know this is all MY OPINION - but I get emotionally invested in this show! I felt awful for the Black Team.

And then immunity was on the table, and I knew that the Black Team would be safe. But what I also knew, was that the only people not safe from the Yellow Team were probably the teams who actually didn’t throw the competition. I knew it would be the Pink Team and that broke my heart. I have no problem with alliances, I understand those, but throwing the weigh-in? No way. To me that is where the line is, and now I’m rooting against Team Orange. And do we know FOR SURE who else threw it? I know the girl on Team Blue, but who else? I want to know who to be angry at. Bette Sue and Alli were my favorite team and I’m sad to see them go. Especially under these circumstances.

It looks like the strike talks might resume sometime today. This is in light of the deal the Director’s Guild made with the AMPTP last week. The whispers have been spreading about that deal motivating all parties to try to work out a similar agreement with the WGA. All reports indicate any meeting (today or otherwise) will probably start out as “informal” so as to keep a casual feel to the beginning of this phase.

Informal talks would replicate the strategy the AMPTP followed with the DGA, during which Chernin and Iger met with a handful of guild leaders to hash out numerous issues in an effort to make the formal bargaining sessions more productive.

Let’s keep our fingers crossed, why don’t we?