How many more do we get?

From what I've gathered via Ausiello, Spoilerfix and various show-specific sites, here's how many episodes we have left of the following (give or take), before the Writer's Strike eats them.

Monday:
Chuck - 5 more
How I Met Your Mother - ?
Heroes - 3 more
Samantha Who - 7 more
Journeyman - ?

Tuesday:
Reaper - between 2 and 4 more
House - 5 more

Wednesday:
Pushing Daisies - 3 more
Private Practice - 3 or 4 more
Gossip Girl - 5 more

Thursday:
The Office - 1 more (cue gnashing of teeth)
Grey's Anatomy - 4 more

Friday:
Friday Night Lights - 9 more

Sunday:
Brothers and Sisters - 5 more

--

So, about 5 more weeks of solid television before it all starts to taper off. Thanks goodness FNL gets it done and will be with us well into the new year - just in time for LOST to begin. And then end again. (Don't get me started right now.)

Thoughts on Striking...

See, I get it.

I do.

I think it sucks because it's the middle of the television season and fans are getting left in the lurch. Shows are hitting their stride, mid-story, and it's possible the viewers will have to wait over a year for seasonal conclusions to already scarce shows (LOST), while baited with the promise of an upswing from faulty stories in others (Heroes). Nevermind the super quick shut down of favorites like The Office, teasing its best table read EVER!

I may go insane.

Not that I think the actors and writers and directors are using this as an excuse for vacation because they don't want to be at work, churning out episodes. If there's anything I learned from my short time in Hollywood, it's that those people are workaholics - seriously. To a fault.

I think the cast and crew is as sad about Dunder-Mifflin sitting empty as I am. Well, probably more when it comes to crew, because let's face it, this strike is NOT good for the grips and the PAs and all the other hardworking little guys making a living on set.

But if there's anything I love, it's a display of solidarity.

My husband is in the entertainment industry, so I know what residuals mean and why they're important. If someone tried selling his CD's or posting their songs on iTunes and left them out of the cut, I'd be there with my own picket sign (even though I think I'd be the only one - have musicians ever gone on strike?), knocking on the proverbial door.

So, yeah, I think the writer's deserve their cut because it's true, in a few years, New Media and the Internet will be an even bigger monster in this industry than they are now. It's strange to me that TV and Movie scribes aren't automatically figured into the deal, because without them, we wouldn't have television. No company would spend millions of dollars in advertising funds for a slot during NBC's Thursday night because characters as ingenious as Dwight Schrute and Veronica Mars would be figments of our imagination (aren't they kind of anyway), LOST would be nothing but a word normally printed in lower case letters, we'd never have heard the charming tale of Ned the Piemaker, and Prime Time wouldn't exist.

Writers ARE television.

Sure, they're important for movies, but TV is the writer's medium. They produce it, they live it, they star in it, they ... write it. The director doesn't get the glory because he comes in for one episode and leaves. It's the guys and girls in the writer's room, under a florescent light at 3 a.m. who run the show - and they do deserve to be compensated.

So, I get it.

I support the strike - what it stands for - 100%.

Still, while I KNOW it's not about greed - it's NOT - if I'm totally honest, there's this little nagging voice in the back of my brain that's kind of annoyed because the average writer in Hollywood makes about $200,000 a year (putting them in something like the top 1% of earning elite in this country) and the ones who are between jobs, working sporadically, make around $62,000 a year (almost twice the average national salary). Granted, Hollywood is an unpredictable place, and a few years from now, that once viable writer may need to live off their residuals while they look for work with the rest of us Regular Joes, so I can't really begrudge them at all - but I can't feel totally sorry for them either, when I'm living with a struggling musician and trying to find a job! Of course, it's people like me, obsessed with the Hollywood product, that make it the norm for salaries in that industry to inflate past people like teachers and social workers, so I can't get too upset can I?

No, dang it, I can't!

Get me the AMPTP, I want my TV back!!!

Two for One.

Heroes

Season 2, Chapter 3
Kindred

Disclaimer of the day: This blog is for shows I watch, meaning I like them, am invested in the story and characters, which sort of makes them like old friends I give an hour of my time to once a week. And you know how it is with old friends - as much as you love, respect and care for them... you REALLY like to make fun of their quirks, laugh at their mishaps and relive all their most embarrassing moments.

With that in mind, I'm interested to know if anyone else out there is having the same trouble I am, focusing on anything OTHER than the cheesy flying sequence in last night's Heroes? Because I feel certain some other stuff happened, but I... just... can't... seem... to recall.

"Claire. Shut up."

I fully expected it to be followed by, "And kiss me," while an appropriately cheesy 80's song played in the background. Such disappointment. He could have at least played, In Your Eyes, on a boombox outside the window while he watched her cut off her toe. Of course, West has a dark place. And it's all Claire's daddy's fault... so now, she's Creepy Bear, staring HRG down through the blinds while he looks at rather ominous pictures of himself, glasses busted.

And I'm sorry, but as much as I love Ireland... Peter has got to leave. I mean, come on. Aside from the lost identity and the life of crime, we find him randomly shirtless, (Lightning! Sparks!) practicing his magic show when Bonny Bar Maid walks in? Why did he need his shirt off for that? Ohhh, right. It's for the ladies. The ladies who tat him up with the family symbol?? What?

Sark, can you please get Hiro to take you back to 2007? The Japanese armor isn't really all that flattering to your accent. Plus, don't you want to meet your great, great, great, great, great, great, great granddaughter and her creepy dad? As for Hiro, you've already punched enough holes in the space-time continuum, do you really want to test it further by sticking notes in the sword for Ando? And how does that work? I'd like to see the moment the sword is altered in the present because of something you're doing 400 years prior. My mind can't really wrap itself around that...

Sylar. Are you on LOST now? Wrong network, buddy. Whatever, just glad to have you back, even if you're still evil.

As for Parkman and Mohinder, I feel I have nothing to add that can fuel the fire of speculation more than anyone else already has.

Other people did things, but... I sort of found them uninteresting.

KB countdown: 2 Weeks.

House
4x03
97 Seconds

Um, House, what is wrong with you? Let's just forget the knife incident, okay. Not that I'd ever put it past you in the first place, but still, let's focus on more important things, like how you should fire Cut-throat Bitch. Immediately.

I'll be honest, I didn't think I was going to like Olivia Wilde's character. My husband's comment was, "Isn't that the girl that made out with Mischa Barton?" Yes... she was that plot device, but I liked her even then, so it wasn't Josh Schwartz related. No, my fears, in regard to her stint on House, were more about not wanting to see Cameron replaced. I'm sort of like House that way... I lost the team, and I'm not too keen on newbies. Anyway, I'm now conceding to liking her. So, there you go. Plus, I just felt really bad for her tonight, what with the guy AND his dog dying... waaaay too sad to handle.

That said, there was a shocking lack of Cameron and Chase this ep. I really, really, really hope they haven't become wayside characters because, change what you want, there is no chemistry like House and the original three. And I miss it. Of course, with Foreman's unfortunate foray into acting like House tonight, and subsequently being fired, I can see the halls of Princeton-Plainsboro once again being filled with the sounds of discord. What a beautiful noise.

And could I please get some sort of information on why there is no House next week? Is it sports related? Ugh.

A smattering...

Last night was the Season 2 Premiere of Brothers and Sisters. You know how I am about the Walkers - LOVE them (though, sadly, they've been slightly eclipsed by the Taylors over on FNL). Poor Nora spent much of the summer alone, save for black sheep, Rebecca - her dead husband's love child, who's now living in Kitty's old room. Confused? Heh. Somehow it works for the kooky clan - and I'll always give Rebecca the benefit of the doubt because I feel certain one day she'll go back to Ephram. Oops, is that the wrong show? Anywho, a few questions/comments:

1. I feel bad for Kitty. Are we going to start every season on her cursed birthday?
2. Since when did Joe want a divorce?? He's the one that screwed up and got kicked out. Now he's the one who wants to end it? Um...
3. I see some bumps in the road for Tommy and Julia.
4. I wonder if Kitty and Robert will actually get married... and will he get elected? That would be interesting... and strange. Can you imagine the Walkers in the White House?!
5. A shocking lack of Justin! Bring him home now!

--

Still liking Chuck. It's just super cute - or am I confusing the show with Zachary Levi? Nah. It's a fun show... and I'm especially excited about the casting news/photos released recently. Cutie-patootie Rachel Bilson is headed to Buy More. Not sure who she's playing (Is it possible she's the ex-girlfriend Bryce stole?) or when her arc begins, but I love me some R Bils. Plus, who knows... Zach is cute and very Adam Brody/Seth Cohen-ish... and we know she likes the type. How cute would the two of them be?

Number one reason of the night to watch Chuck? Shout outs to other awesome shows! Chuck's brain is set off by an image and amongst the flashing pictures we hear him say, "Flight 815 was shot down..."

Looks like the Chuck peeps are LOST fans. Solidarity, baby.

--

Claire cut off her toe. And watched it grow back. Gross. And seriously... West is obviously flying in the sky, look up. Mr. Muggles sees him, but you don't? I see some angsty, teenage, "we're so different, no one understands us," bonding ahead. Wonder if West takes Bear on a magic carpet ride next week... Claire's about to enter a whole new world. /Cheesy Disney jokes. On a side note, I sort of love that Bear uses her powers at home (the ring in the water) and that Mom's "in it" and not still being brainwashed.

The guy that was beating Peter up, when he was tied to the chair, where have I seen him before? It's making me batty. I wonder if the Irish thugs will give Peter his life box next week. (I'm sorry, but NBC needs to stop with The Box promo. It's just sad in comparison to, "Save the Cheerleader.") It can't be that simple... plus he was making out with cute bar maid sister... hey, if I were him, I'd want to stay in Ireland, too, so I say, work whatever angle you have to for some time on European soil. (And as cute as he and Hayden are, all the talk of him hooking up with Claire, totally grosses me out.) And in the words of Hubby, who Blackberry Messaged me during the ep, "Milo looks ripped. Heeeeeey."

Still sort of bored with the Takezo K. story... save the visuals on David Anders, whom it appears, is of the same power family as Bear. Warriors and Cheerleaders unite!

The Haitian returns. The virus returns. Mohinder keeps handing out blood to cure people - that can't be good, I'm just sayin'.

Creepiest new hero? Maya. What the HELL is she doing?

That preview for next week better not be faking me out, AGAIN. As in, Sylar better be back. And bring on episode 5 already... I'm ready for some Kristen Bell!

LOST and the art of the MindFrak.

What... is this?

Such a long, long time...

Wow. I truly didn't mean to be out of pocket as long as I have been... but sometimes life gets in the way, just a little bit! Moving to California, starting school, trying to find a place to live - it's been insane! But it's beginning to settle in, thank goodness!!!

Of course, we don't really care what I've been doing. We care about TV. So, let's get to what I know at the moment.

Upcoming TV/DVD release dates:

August 21 - HOUSE, S3
August 28 - HEROES, S1
September 4 - THE OFFICE, S3
September 11 - GREY'S ANATOMY, S3
September 25 - BROTHER'S and SISTERS, S1
October 23 - VERONICA MARS, S3
December 11 - LOST, S3
---
GILMORE GIRLS, S7 - ??
HOW I MET YOUR MOTHER, S2 - ??
24, S6 - ?

Hope you're still out there, somewhere.

LOST: 3x22

LOST
3x22
Through the Looking Glass
(A Jack Episode)
SEASON 3 FINALE

*@$!

Wow. I mean, I knew... but... wow.

HOLY @%!* Moments...
1. Sayid snapping dude's neck with his legs.
2. Hurley running a man down with the van.
3. Sawyer killing YET another person.
4. Danielle and Alex, face to face.
5. Um... Kate and Jack. Off the island?!

That's right... THEY GOT OFF THE ISLAND!
Well, at least Jack and Kate did. I loved my happy, emotional, stirring, LOST music, all of the characters hugging when Jack made the call... only to see him broken, crying, and wishing to go back a few minutes later. We weren't given any clues, but I think it's been a while since their rescue. Sarah wasn't shocked to see Jack in the hospital and even said, "Are you drinking again," like they'd been through it all before. Kate's behavior, Jack's words... all lend me toward this conclusion - but what do I know? I'm just guessing. So why are they not happy to be home? Even though Kate doesn't look "terrible," she doesn't look happy. I'm thinking she's running from the pain, while Jack's taking it all on... pretty characteristic of them both.

As for Jack and Kate...
First off... he told her he loves her! Totally unselfishly and knowing she's been hookin' it up with someone else. That's my Jack. All the girls at our finale party were sort of melty from that one. ;) And can we talk about home free Kate not being a fugitive?? What's the deal with that? And having "him" wondering where she is. I'm sure everyone's mind immediately went to Sawyer - I think that's what they want us to think - which leads me to think it's someone else entirely. All that aside, it's obvious, even with all the dark, twisty angst, Jack and Kate still have some sort of connection. When he pulled her to him and said, "I'm sick of lying. We made a mistake," I saw the old Kate/Jack chemistry. She still cares, but she can't deal with him as he is now and whatever happened between them... which tells me, it's affecting her too. My husband said, "I'd think she'd be more concerned about him." As do I, which adds to my theory that it's been a while since they got off the island. Should be interesting to follow...

Let's talk about the Foxy...
See, now I told you up front, I'm a Jack Shepard fan. Why? Hmmm... let's see... did you watch with me tonight? Matthew Fox was AMAZING. I mean, I seriously hate seeing Dr. Giggles on a downward spiral, but he gave us some massive range. When he finally beat the hell out Henry, we were all cheering. And the tears and the caring and the leading... he was so strong as "island Jack," so the contrast of present Jack was a bit daunting to process. And I think that's why he needs to go back. Whatever happened during rescue, whatever secrets Jack and Kate are keeping... they have to be pretty big and pretty destructive to put Jack in the place he is - which, by the way, is completely lost!!! (seriously, he's still lost, even though he's home, I think I may have hit on something here) - back on dry land.

Charlie's big send-off...
Never my favorite character, but I was totally feeling the Charlie love tonight. He stepped it up and took it like a man. I mean, come on... shutting Desmond out of the hatch to save him (thank goodness!) and still having the forethought to pass along a VERY important nugget of info from Penny. We had lots of time to say goodbye, and I even hoped he'd pull through in the end, but when it came down to it, Charlie's character departed in an incredible tribute to the whole spirit of the show - these characters, these people, finding peace and overcoming their past. Seriously, though, the final shot of him in the water, crossing himself... wow.

So, what do we know?
1. Jack made contact with Naomi's boat and it's headed toward the island.

2. Penny knows Desmond's alive, so we can bet she'll have men on it ASAP.

3. Desmond knows Naomi's boat is NOT Penny's, so he can warn Jack and the LOSTies. Of course, since we know where Jack ended up, something obviously went down that Desmond couldn't stop.

4. Kate and Jack made it off the island.

5. Something happened between Jack's radio call and his post-island meeting with Kate - and it's shaken them to the core.

Things we don't know... (besides a lot)
1. How the HELL is Walt on the island?

2. What happened when Naomi's boat arrived?

3. Who was in the coffin?

4. Who made it off the island besides Jack and Kate?

5. Why does Jack want to go back?

Season 4?
There are so many directions they could go from here. Do they remain in the present and have flashbacks occur on the island, showing us how they were rescued and what happened in the process? Or are we still on the island in its time period, watching the future (I don't think it's this one, for the record)? Are the next three years about Jack, Kate and whoever else, getting back to the island, finding their redemption? Come the end, in May 2010, after everything I've read, I highly doubt our creators will leave us dissatisfied with the state of our heroes. It would be pretty upsetting to leave Jack as he is now, the fate of everyone else in the air. No, I think this show will end with an air of hope (the question is, how do they get there)... but good grief... who the hell could predict?

All I know is this:
1. LOST is amazing.
2. 8 months is unacceptable!!!

LOST: 3x21

LOST

3x21
Greatest Hits
(A Charlie Episode)

So... it's possible I've seen a few things flying about in the recent spoiler hurricane, which means it's probable I knew Charlie wasn't dying tonight... and I still got a little choked up. No falling tears or anything, but geez, they really laid into us with the build up!

Charlie's never been my favorite one way or the other - I know people who love him and others who loathe him - but whatever you think of the character, there's no denying Dom did a great job tonight. The scene between he and Des in the boat was fantastic (we won't get into the hotness of Desmond, skulking around in his half-opened shirt) and the stuff with Claire and Aaron and the list - very bittersweet. We won't know how it all plays out 'til next week, but things aren't looking so good at the moment. Who knows what could happen? (Yeah, only half the internet...) I, for one, hope Charlie makes it...

Otherwise, the purpose of tonight was preparation... on all levels. While the LOSTies get ready for battle, we need to prepare our minds for the inevitable, end of the season mind frak.

What do we know going in?

1. Jack's leading a group toward the radio tower, where there's no telling what we'll find...

2. Sayid's taken over the showdown, but Ben's not going down without a fight.

3. Charlie has yet to flip the switch, so as it stands, the signal's still jammed.

4. Desmond's knocked out on the boat.

5. Locke's laying in a shallow grave.

6. The Others are coming early, unaware their ambush has been ambushed.

In this state, we begin the finale.

I'm so, so, so, so excited and totally freaked out! I make no apologies for loving spoilers, but I still can't wait for next week... because even if/when I know what's going down, the actual event never fails to shock me as if I had no clue... especially when that event is LOST. Our weekly watching party is gonna be a blowout, complete with food and fun (the Season 2 Premiere involved a Luau, complete with leis and fruity drinks - we're not playing around, people), so I can't wait to see the faces and hear all the chatter when the credits roll next Wednesday. It's gonna be zoppity.

And, I'm sorry, but can we talk about Jack's, "I love you," in the preview? I'm not a militant couple lover when it comes to this show, but I do prefer Kate with Jack, so... swoon!

Gilmore Girls: A Tribute

I'll miss my girls.

Warning: Lots of Gilmore, lots of silliness... just me remembering a favorite, so if you aren't a fan, you'll probably just want to pass this post by...

Yes, it's corny. Yes, my husband is sitting here, making fun of me with comments like, "I know this is gonna take a lot out of you. Dig deep." Yes, it's just a TV show. But still...

I can't believe it'll all be over in less than two hours. Seriously, I get way too attached to things and my shows are no exception. And this one's been around for a while. Seven years. I've been a fan of this show for SEVEN years... and that's longer than I've known my husband, so he can kiss it!

When I first found Gilmore Girls, I was completely enamored. And for quite a while, it occupied the number one spot on my favorite shows list. Inevitably, it let me down, went ways I didn't like and made me want to run from the room screaming... but it also gave me tons of laughs, lots of heart and even a few tears now and then. I LOVE this show, cracks, faults and all, and I'll miss it terribly. I'm not sure the finale will do it justice, considering the last two seasons, but if I feel like everyone's okay and where they should be, I'll take it.

Lorelai,

You are, quite possibly, one of my favorite female characters ever. Strong, funny and full of imagination. Yeah, you made a few not-so-great, slightly out of character, choices along the way (*cough*Christopher Season6and7*cough*), but I think you're gonna pull through in the end - and that's why I love you. I'll miss your quippy, pop-culture self and every love-hate fight with Emily, but most of all, I'll miss seeing you with Rory and Luke every week. However, in my little corner of the world, you'll be working the Dragonfly with Sookie 20 years from now, talking on the phone with Rory, and going home to Luke's Diner every night, so... what am I getting all worked up over?

Rory,

What can I say, kid? You've got a really cool mom, you went to Chilton and Yale... I feel like I've watched you grow up and now I'm a little jealous of your "wide-open" life, but you deserve it. I'm proud of you. I hate we won't see you take over the world, because it's been a long road. You made some mistakes - dropping out for a semester, living with your grandparents... plus I wasn't exactly behind your whole sleeping with a married guy thing, and it was probably a big bad to break up with Jess (or am I just projecting my Milo love on Alexis?), but then you had Logan, and well, I think he was my favorite. Alas, one day, big shot reporter Rory will find herself a guy worthy of a Gilmore Girl... I hate I won't be there for family dinners when you take him home to meet Luke and your mom.

Luke and Lorelai,

Thank god you're cutting the crap. I don't expect anymore screw ups, so I feel okay leaving you tonight. Still... there's no other couple like you; the words "made for each other" come to mind. I'll miss all the banter-laden, flirty love... alas, now I have Jim and Pam to tear my heart out. *sigh* All the good ones do.

Emily and Richard,

You seriously make me laugh. Constantly. You also have the tendency to really piss me off, but generally, it's been a joy. And hey, I even wanted to hit up Friday night dinner sometimes, just to see what went down! That's power. Who will I count on for my weekly dose of guilt and manipulation? Wait, that's right, Nora Walker covers both nicely and when it comes to manipulation, there's always LOST and Heroes. Still, Sylar and Locke have nothing on you two when it comes to getting your way...

Sookie, Michel, Lane, Paris, Jackson, Kirk, Taylor, Miss Patty, Babette, Gypsy and the rest of the Stars Hollow Characters,

You made me laugh, every time you graced the screen. Mainly Michel, because I love a smart ass, but you were all priceless assets in my enjoyment of this show. I fully expect to see Kirk on a reality show someday...

God, I'm getting a little nostalgic, so I'll leave the last word to my husband, "Gilmore Girls: They talked fast. Sometimes... the French guy was funny."

You'll never know how hard it was for him to admit that...

ABC, step forward.

The alphabet kings have set us up for the fall.

Once the upfronts are over, I'll compile my full (and overly stuffed) fall TV schedule for next year, but at this point, ABC has me for LOST, Brothers and Sisters, Grey's, Private Practice (I gotta see how it goes...) and I'm hearing a lot of buzz about the new show, Pushing Daisies, so I'm all up for checking it out - especially since it's in the LOST timeslot until FEBRUARY 2008! We won't even discuss how LONG of a wait that is for new eps of LOST (especially after all the spoilers I've been reading this week)!

It appears Oprah has a do-gooder show popping up as well. Perhaps it'll be a bit like Extreme Makeover: Home Edition - I'll watch when I remember.

Heroes, Chapter 22

Heroes
Chapter 22
Landslide

Will anyone be upset if I stamp a "filler" label on this episode? Not bad, shoddy filler, but filler all the same. And sometimes it's necessary. We need build up, lead in, for the finale next week... and we definitely have it.

There's Hiro and his dad, engaged in a little bonding time over swordplay... I'm thinking it's obvious Hiro's father is one of the originals like Linderman and the Petrelli Parents, but it seems perhaps there's a schism (just ask the Baudelaire orphans) and pop is on the NO BOMB side. Three cheers for the Nakamura's!

Now, I'm a fairly intelligent person. I did well in school, have a degree, read a lot of books and can usually put two and two together, so I'm asking myself why it didn't dawn on me that Molly was the tracking system!? Hello! And check out HRG - shooting Julia Roberts' brother! All for the greater good, but still...

A lot of people bit it tonight. I'd add DL to the list if he weren't in next week's preview, but what about Linderman? Is he really dead? My husband kept saying, "Can they really kill him right now?" Well, I guess they can, but we'll see if it's a Shannon or a Locke style death. And Ted. I really liked him and now he's missing the top of his head. Not cool.

I am, however, lovin' Claire and Peter with their shiny, new family bond. Let's just hope it ends up with The Cheerleader pointing the gun at the Boogie Man, not her uncle. Still, Clairebear, let 'em fight for a bit... I'm looking forward to that showdown. And it has nothing to do with Milo and Zachary being fun to look at. Not. At. All... *ahem*

Of course, the big question now... is Peter the bomb? Is Sylar? Or do they both go red and glowy next week? What happens to Molly and Suresh? To Micah? Will Jessica or Nikki gain full control? Does Nathan make it through the bomb? Will this show add as much stress to my life as LOST and The Office?

I'm leaving lots of thoughts unfinished, asking lots of questions. Probably because the feeling I have right now is very similar to the one I had at the end of the 2nd Pirates of the Caribbean movie. We've got lots of words and actions, but not a complete thought.

Let's hope I can form a sentence next week.

Up Front with Damien...

Let's talk TV.

Upfronts, specifically, as they started today.

NBC was first out of the gate and they brought us good news.

The Office will have 30, half-hour segments next year. It was a bit confusing at first (because it involved math), but it adds up to be 20 half hour episodes and FIVE, count 'em, FIVE, ONE HOUR episodes. Woohoo! I'm glad they chose this route. The possibility of an hour long show each week was exciting, but it could also have been the kiss of death... Now, it seems they're moving to the 9/8c time slot, pitting Dunder-Mifflin against Seattle Grace, but I've got faith they can pull it off! Make me choose, I'm going to Scranton!

Heroes has also, in the words of its home network, been "bulked" up. Thirty episodes when combined with some sort of spin-off called, Heroes: Origins. I'm hoping, and guessing, this is some sort of internet tie-in like the LOST crew loves to do. Whatever, I'll take as many minutes of Petrelli as I can get!

Scrubs was picked up for 18 more eps (I'm calling last season, here), which means I've gotta get on the ball and watch the current season... I'm lagging behind at Sacred Heart!

And... that's sort of all I care about at NBC. Seems there are a plethora of new shows, as always, so it'll be interesting to see if and which ones pull me into their web.

In other news...

St. Louis was fun. I saw the Arch, pondered the "Gateway to the West," and spent a large amount of time at H&M, but seriously, those things weren't my reason for going.

<----- Him, over to the left in that picture, he's why I went to St. Louis. So to answer your question, yes, Damien Rice was amazing! I don't know who's a fan and who isn't, but if you are - find tickets. Now. Yeah, Lisa's gone and you feel it a little, every now and then, but overall, this show is Damien and he stands quite well on his two feet without her. (And so ends my Damien Rice plug. I'll spare you my detailed account of the concert and my certainty that I saw him being driven into the parking lot a few hours before the show and we totally looked at one another... just know it was fabulous.) It also appears that hubby had a good time at the Kings of Leon show in New Orleans, so overall, a successful weekend of music.

LOST: 3x20

LOST
3x20
The Man Behind the Curtain
(A Ben Episode)

I...

So...

There's... and... Jacob...

And... Locke?

Roll credits, cue preview for next week, cut to me and my weekly viewing party friends with eyes wide and mouths open, completely unable to form words.

I will say this, it's good to know Uncle Rico did something productive with himself after that legendary high school football career!

Yeah, that makes no sense...
1. Richard is ageless. I'd love to know whether he's been using Ponds or Oil of Olay...
2. Jacob's invisible. I seriously thought Ben was nutters. I even started laughing. Yeah, all up until I heard, "help me" and the house started rockin.' Question: (Yes, Dwight?) If Jacob is the big wig, why does he need help?
3. I'm very interested in this trail of powder or dust or whatever it is, that Ben and Locke happened across. I saw something saying it could be a "line" of some sort, keeping Jacob at bay.
4. Why did "the hostiles" let Ben become the leader - or is he still just a figurehead? And if they killed off Dharma, then what exactly are they doing there now?
5. Anyone else think Alex might turn against Pops in the finale?

What the hell is going on...?
1. So, is Ben's "hostile" takeover of the Dharma Initiative, "the incident" we've heard talk of before? I haven't really studied up on that, so if you know or have theories, please pass my way.
2. Jacob is...? I'm sorry, but that whole haunted house thing freaked me out. I was seriously concerned about whether or not I'd be able to get to sleep after watching it. The flash of "Jacob" in the chair was the part that wigged me out most. I've seen a bit of the speculation about it over at Lost-Media, but come on... what in the world?

Lies Ben told... (Or maybe we should just start with his few nuggets of truth, as I'm thinking the lies are infinite.)

I have no clue where to start when it comes to Linus and his lies. I knew we were seeing Ben's parents at the beginning, but they pulled a fast one on us! Lie number 1: Ben wasn't born on the island. Not totally shocking, but still, a revelation and an intigator. And what's with him seeing his dead mommy and Jack seeing his dad? I don't like it. Not one bit.

It's hard to know where to go from there. The lies are rampant and not very easy to decipher. I mean, the guy is squirrelly. Who knows what his truth is... I do think he was rather honest at the end, what with holding the gun in his hand and all, but he was freaked when he heard what Jacob said to Locke... and that loads the phrase, "help me," with numerous, unanswerable questions.

I think Ben's feeling the heat. His people started looking to Locke, Jacob spoke to Locke and even though he knows there's something special about John, Ben's majorly threatened by him. Shooting Locke was a power play and Ben's hanging onto his by a very thin thread. I won't be surprised if we see him drained of his authority before too long.

Which brings me back to Locke. Is he dead? Is Jacob/the Island going to heal him as it has before? Is he that important? I heard there would be some shocking deaths before the end of the season and this definitely measures up, so who knows. Whatever the case, I really WAS NOT expecting this. It occurred to me, as Locke looked at the grave, Ben might push him in, but the gunshot was as "holy hell" of a moment as the episode last year where NOTHING happened until the last two minutes when Michael shot Libby and Ana.

The last two eps are going to be intense - and that's a huge understatement. This "game changer" is really starting drive me insane. I hear it involves Jack and another character, which makes me even more insane. I love May Sweeps, but Lordy, it shaves years from my life!

LOST gets found...

48 more episodes. That's it. Cue rescue boat, end scene.

Unfortunately, the last 48 will be spread out over three, 16 episode seasons. I'd much rather see two full seasons, but there are apparently some "international deals already in place." Grrrr...

I'm fully supportive of end-date television. It's nice when you can prepare to let go... when you know going in, how long it will last. LOST has never been one of those shows that should go on forever. I mean, you reach a point where you sort of HAVE to end it... so, smart move. And apparently, the "game changer" everyone keeps mentioning in this years finale will help us, "understand why the show cannot go longer than 48 more episodes."

Seriously... what do Damon and Carlton have up their dirty, little sleeves?

(A lesson for The Office. As much as I love you and will wail and gnash my teeth when you end, I'd rather see you go while on top. Give us at least two more good seasons and let's see where we stand, huh?)

LOST: 3x19

LOST
3x19
The Brig
(A Locke Episode)

So... I have this feeling I may not have a lot to say about last night. You know, other than the usual, WTF? As far as story progression goes, there wasn't much. Sure, a few little nuggets here and there, but it was more of a wacked out emotional ride - for Sawyer as much, if not moreso, than Locke. Kinda weird and twisted. But we'll get to that later...

What we learned...

1. Naomi was hired by Penny - I think that was a given last week - but she offered a few tidbits of rather interesting fodder:
a) Flight 815 was found like, 4 miles beneath the ocean, by cameras that confirmed the bodies were also there. Verrrrry strange. This leads me to believe no one has actually ID'd the bodies and confirmed anything... so, it's quite possible this "found plane," is a plant. Right?
b) The map/grid Naomi was given, showed her flying over the middle of the ocean, no land in sight. Quite convenient to see a speck of land as her helicopter is going down... *scratches head* So, are we supposed to believe this chick or not? Seems Sayid has his questions...

2. Jack and Juliet have a secret. My thoughts: She told him about Ben's plan, the tape recorder - all of it - and the two of them are working on a double cross. Of course, in the meantime, Jack's losing sight of the fact that his association with Juliet is causing rumbles in the camp. Can he be trusted? We KNOW he can. He's Jack... and he has his reasons. From the conversation/argument with Kate (which I enjoyed), it's obvious they're (Jack and Juliet) planning to tell the camp - or at least Kate - at some point, but the time's not right. However, we know Sawyer's on his way back with said tape recorder in hand... and Jack's got some 'splaining to do. Like why, "If you have something to say, you can say it in front of Juliet." Excuse me while I gag.

Locke is a freak...

I'm sorry, but he is.

So, I think everyone figured out Locke's dad was the original Sawyer before tonight. The question is, how did Benry and crew put it all together? I wish Locke could see just badly he's being manipulated. I mean, seriously, Richard went to Locke on his own? I don't believe that. And we KNOW Ben doesn't want Locke left behind too long because then his leg tingles go away... so what's his game? And I'm just shooting off at the mouth, but I think it plays a huge part in this big "game changer" Carlton and Damon keep talking about. You're all familiar with this discussion, right?

And perhaps we should question why killing his father makes Locke a good person. A free person... 'cause last time I checked, killing someone could leave a mark on the murderer. *shrug* The fact that Ben tried to wrangle Locke in front of the whole came (kids included!) doesn't make him look very "good" to me. It actually sort of makes him a little bit sucky. Of course, I like Ben's character... because I can easily hate him. Actually, I think it's gonna be pretty cool to get a glimpse of his life - and hopefully his motives - next week.

In other news, I'm fairly certain the season finale of this show will leave me in a pre-verbal state... just warning you.

SPOILERS

Spoiler Basics

I won't generally post spoilers. I know lots of people don't want to know what's coming up on their shows, but I do. And in the off chance you see the "Shhhh..." sign, you'll know it's because something:
a) has me up in arms.
b) got me all excited and I can't hold it in.
c) completely freaked me out and I need comfort.

I will identify the shows I'm discussing, but I'll white out the SPOILERS - so highlight to read, if you must.

P.S. If Granger doesn't stop scratching at crap, he's gonna be sad because he got a spanking!!!! Grrr...

LOST SPOILER
So, I've heard there are as many as 5 deaths in the finale. That's disconcerting enough, but then Kristin at E! had to add, "... in anticipation of how totally and completely freaked out most of you fans will be ... it's not so much the number (of deaths), but the who."

I really, really hate surprises. And I'm no good with major character deaths. I'd like to lay that out on the table right now. I'm pretty sure this finale is going to send me into a stress meltdown. Or leave me catatonic like Buffy.

THE OFFICE SPOILER
"I'm hearing you JAM fans will be pleased! Yayaaay!"

Please, Kristin, for the LOVE of all things Krasinski, let this be true. I'm dying here! Especially after seeing those pictures of John and Rashida in New York and hearing they were doing reshoots for the finale! I need some Jim and Pam!

LOST: 3x18

LOST

3x18
D.O.C.
(A Jin/Sun Episode)

You know the episode of The Office (S2: Michael's Birthday) where Ryan hears Dwight and Angela discussing "cookies"? Ok, now, imagine Ryan's face afterward, in the talking head.

That's me right now.

WTF?

1. Ummmm... Patch Adams is alive? How? Someone... seriously. HOW? Dude was foaming at the mouth like a rabid dog a few weeks ago and now...? So, if he's been healed, the question is: Did Linderman do it? Ok, not really, but what's up with these people? Why wasn't Boone healed? The Marshall? Shannon? As you can see, I have many, many questions.

2. People on this island don't just come back from the dead! No, no, they also get a better sperm count. Basically, what you're telling me, is this island is made of Viagra. Great for men. Not so good on the whole deathly pregnancy front.

3. Oceanic Flight 815 had no survivors, huh? Interesting. Kristin from E! Online has confirmed (with Damon) the Losties are NOT dead or in Purgatory - since many people jumped back to that theory. I didn't. I think there's a massive cover up in the works. Somebody didn't want a search party out looking for our boys and girls. Which begs the question... are they really that far away from the "outside world"?

4. Which brings me to Naomi - the multi-lingual, parachuting, Catch 22 reader. Lost-Media and Lostpedia were all over her language swapping and we now know... Patch Adams LIED (*gaspshockhorror*)! He told us she said "thank you," but it was really, "I'm not alone." Good to know... now whose side are you on, Naomi? And was the little bombshell you dropped on Hurley a lie? Huh? Huh?

The Happy Couple... ?
Jin is Sun's baby daddy.

At least Juliet helped us find out ONE thing that matters. Nevermind that she went in and recorded it all for Ben to come find in the super-secret concrete bunker! I'm really hoping Sun followed her back inside. So, SO much.

Ok, fine. There are moments she seems genuine. But genuine is not trustworthy.

The better question is this... how the hell is Juliet going to get a "sample" from Kate? And what does she need it for? These people continue to creep me out on a regular basis.

And poor Jin. A prostitute mom (who didn't catch that immediately... come on!) and a fisherman father (I thought his dad was the cutest little thing with that big ol' grin!). Both too shameful to share with his wife (he's obviously never been to America where all men do on weekends in summer is fish). But honestly, weren't you more impressed with is Ninja skills than his family history?

And naughty, naughty Sun. Wonder if her little secret will ever be brought to light. The mere fact that she shared it with Juliet ups the ante.

Lastly... I'm not getting too concerned about the fact that Sun only has 2 months to live (if it even turns out that way). We're in the middle of season 3 and only 90 days from where we started. If Sun goes out, I'm betting it won't be until the Series Finale.

Now bring on the showdown!!

Yeah, I was supposed to be somewhere 4 minutes ago.

Lost: 3x17

LOST
3x17
Catch 22
(A Desmond Episode)

I'm sorry, but did Desmond really think Penny was coming to the island? People with lots of money don't do jobs themselves... they do, however, take credit for the outcome of other people's hard work. What? It's true.

Things I noticed:
1. Charlie "died" in Desmond's vision, BUT if you watch the "flashes," he's holding onto the parachute when the girl falls out of the tree. So does that mean he needed to be there and wasn't supposed to die? It hurts my brain to process this question.

2. Jin is funny! I think that's possibly the first time he's ever made me laugh. Do it again, do it again!

3. There's a satellite phone on the island. Sayid better get to work, pronto!

4. Kate and Sawyer can be pretty sucky people.

There's this gem: "Now that that's out of the way... how 'bout an afternoon delight?" Seriously? Sawyer, you should know, it's every girl's dream (excuse me while I throw up a little in my mouth) to hear those words. Yes, I laughed, but had he said them to me... gross.

And Kate. Good rule of thumb: When jealous that Foxy's hangin' out in whisper girl's tent, having "shut up" sex with Sawyer will not make it better. I mean, come on... she's crying over Jack and turns to James for comfort. Sorta sick in the head, no matter how much I love her. Twisted, I tell you! I hate love triangles. Too pointy!

I won't mention that I enjoyed the 4 seconds of interaction between Kate and Jack in the "kitchen." Or the fact that Sawyer figured it out. Good for him! Not that it will make a huge difference, as it looked like they were kissing (again! grr!) in the preview...

And I'm just wondering... does Jack really trust Juliet? Or is he playing her, too?

So, the main event...
Desmond, Desmond, Desmond.

Who would have guessed you were of the monk persuasion? Not I. But somehow, I don't think the robe, or the vow of silence are the important parts to that story.

No, I think it's more about the fact that the mystery lady from your last flashback (who wouldn't sell you Penny's ring) is pals with your good Brother, brother. Yeah, we all know the LOST crew loves "easter eggs" - go back and check the pic on the monk's desk. Interesting how both of those characters played a pivotal role in setting Desmond on the "right" path. Whatever that means.

And can I just say, I'd be completely disturbed if I had one of Desmond's visions. Good thing the hobbit didn't go down with an arrow to the throat. (I still think he's doomed, though. It's never good when your flashback is the one before the season finale.) Question: Will Charlie die because he no longer trusts Desmond... or because he does? Oooooooo...

So yes, Desmond, you were a drunk monk with lady problems. Now you're a sad psychic with lady problems. We could talk about the fact that you were gonna sacrifice Charlie (how very Locke of you)! But we won't. Because we love you.

As S stated last night while Des trudged along the beach, shirt flailing open in the breeze, "Mmmm. I'm a fan of that shirt."

What's key to our knowledge?
1. The island can be penetrated. It's only a matter of time...
2. Um... yeah, I thought there'd be more than one. Appears not.

Like spoilers?

I do. A lot. It's a bit of a problem.

Thankfully, Kristin, at E! Online just came out with her LOSTAPALOOZA '07 info. Lots of goodies, but nothing too spoilery. Enough to whet your appetite for what's to come.

Did someone say rumble?

E! also posted the results of the "Save One Show Campaign" that's done every year.

It seems Veronica Mars was on top until the last minute, when Gilmore Girls fans went haywire voting and sent it into top position. *sigh*

As a fan of both shows, can I just say... I voted for Veronica. I LOVE the Gilmores. I do. But it's hit it's peak. Let it go, people... let it rest. Veronica, however, is one of the most underrated shows on television. And if you aren't watching it, you should be!
--
And now I must watch The Office again.

Shun.

Lost: 3x16

LOST
3x16
One of Us
(A Juliet Episode)

I tried to tell them... but they ate every, juicy morsel of Juliet propaganda like a football team at the Golden Corral's all you can eat buffet. Over and over, during the entire 44 minutes that was last night's episode, C and S tried to turn against me.

"I think I might like her. She's kind of a bad ass," S says, cringing.

C responds a bit later, "Yeah, yeah, I think I agree."

And near the end, C looks to me and says, "You have to like her."

To which I responded, "No. No, I do not."

Cue last scene.

Fine, I give in. Yes, Juliet is bad ass. Yes, she is a sympathetic character and I felt a little sorry for her when she laid out on Ben's kitchen counter, but the girl is NOT to be trusted. She's intriguing. That's all you get from me.

Jack, ABORT protection!

And speaking of, when did Jack go around spouting off about people being "under my protection?"

Seriously?

Blah, blah, long hug, Kate and Sawyer. (Kidding. A little.) I think the handshake, man hug, between Jack and Sawyer was sweeter than the hug, but that's just me.

And now... Things I would NOT have done.

1. Let Ethan, "check my vitals."

2. Drink a glass of orange juice, "with a considerable amount of tranquilizer mixed in." Who freakin' says that?

3. Been OK signing paperwork, not talking to people in my life for 6 months OR working with a company no one's ever heard of.

We did, however, learn a lot.

1. Women, take note: the island is like a horror movie where the girl who has sex, dies. Or, in this case, the girl who gets pregnant. Wonder what "happens at conception?" And, um, Sun... well, I hate to have to tell you this, but...

2. Claire's kidnapping was never "planned."

3. Jacob is in control. And apparently divine.

4. Information is power. Juliet may be bad ass, but she's also unfair. Sayid and Sawyer have instinct, but her knowledge of them gave her a way out. The Others seem to depend on having the upper hand. Wonder what will happen if they lose it...?

5. Juliet is there to divide and conquer. Knock Kate out of the way, take the place of "trust" in Jack's world, set up sides, send the Losties into turmoil amongst themselves.

6. Something big is going down in a week. I'm guessing that's five episodes from now.

7. Ana Lucia killed Juliet's lovah.

8. Juliet is out for Juliet. I don't think she's about loyalty at this point. And she's NOT inherently bad. (There, I said it.) Jack was right, she wants off the island more than anyone, and that's what drives all of her decisions at this point.

What am I missing?

Side note: Can I just say, I loved seeing the news broadcasts in the background at the communication station. I'm sure someone with a lot of time on their hands, is analyzing them as we speak.

Question of the night goes to Sawyer, "What the hell is she doing here?"

No, really. What's she about to set in motion?