One Tree Hill and Other Strike Shows

It's been a winter of discontent for television viewers. As the second half of the season gets underway, we find the majority of our favorite shows missing from the lineup, only to be replaced with mind-numbing reality shows as like Celebrity Apprentice and a "new" American Gladiators. So, until my regular programming returns (Lost, please!)here is where I'll find relief from this TV rut.

One Tree Hill (the CW)- Don't get me wrong. I was as much a hater of this trite teen drama as the rest of you. After catching a few over-the-top episodes, I quickly added this show to the Do Not Watch list. But now that my TV schedule has been quickly demaciated, I decided to give this "new" version a try, especially after all the hype surrounding its 4-year flash-forward. And I must say, it was better than expected, save the unrealistic careers these kids found themselves in- basketball star, published author, fashion designer, record label assistant. However, the best change came in the form of 4-year-old Jamie, who proved to be more intelligent than all the main character's (now absent) parents put together.

Project Runway (Bravo) What more can you ask for than a bunch of society's outcasts thrown together to design clothes made from items found at the Hershey's store? Not much I say! These kooky kids sure make watching TV fun as they sew, swear, and struggle through the day. Not to mention Tim Gunn always manages to put a smile on my face.

Jon and Kate Plus 8 (TLC) So, most of you would probably think a show featuring nothing but screaming kids would be dreadful. But for some reason, this show is so addicting! I am right there with Jon and Kate as they try to understand their kids (6year old twins and 3-year-old sextuplets!). It's also interesting to see how these two young parents (Jon is only 30!) cope with such a massive amount of responsibility by staying patient and organized, as well as keeping their marriage going despite the 8 children constantly vying for their attention. And you think your day is unmanagable!