Tannbach

We're currently watching and really enjoying this German series. It follows the story of a village split in two by the border between West and East Germany after World War Two.

I studied a lot of the history in school and at uni but this really brings it to life and makes it personal. I wish it had been around when I was a student.

F.R.I.E.N.D.S

Lately I've been enjoying watching Friends from the beginning again. It's been almost ten years since I last watched it which is just about right for forgetting enough to enjoy it again.

It occured to me that the next time I watch it will probably be when I try to get the kids into it in their teenage years. They'll probably be bored and wondering where the smart phones are but I hope they get it too.

For me it's a classic!

Blasts from the past

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Recently we have been getting into some series' on DVD. First of all, Nico got Lovejoy for his birthday and we are nearly through them already. I was a bit young to remember Lovejoy but we have enjoyed watching them. It's amazing how dated they seem sometimes. It makes me wonder how new series will look in thirty years' time.

It's also fun to see so many familiar faces in their youth. The first was Dalziel of Dalziel and Pascoe fame. We bought and watched series 1 and while I still enjoyed Dalziel's brash Yorkshire style and one liners, the narratives weren't as good as I remembered.

A couple of weeks later, another familiar face popped up in Lovejoy. Sam Ryan from Silent Witness. I started watching this one a few series in when it was originally broadcast so I've now ordered series one and am hoping it is as good as I remember.

Meanwhile, we'll be finishing up Lovejoy and looking out for any other viewing ideas.

30 things... Watch Grey's Anatomy

For my birthday on 2nd April I received series 1 - 9 of Grey's Anatomy. We are definitely series junkies but this was one we never got around to and now I don't know how we avoided it for so long! We finished series 10 yesterday and are now eagerly awaiting the recently approved series 11. 

What I loved about this show is that it really keeps you on your toes - the drama is excellent. I don't want to include any spoilers on here in case you haven't seen it but I will say that the end of series 5 was the first time I can remember actually shouting out loud in shock. I'm still not over it!

The characters are well written but this is one of the only series where I actively hate the main character. Meredith Grey made me cringe for women everywhere throughout the ten series. Luckily the other characters gave the show some balance.

If you haven't seen it, get your hands on it, but be warned - it's addictive!

Current Viewing - House

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Being the series junkies that we are, I am surprised we didn't get around to this series sooner but we are currently devouring House.  Usually we go more for crime series and this is our first medical drama but it's impossible to stop watching the anti-hero that is House once you get started. 

I've heard the series likened to Sherlock Holmes and I totally get it.  Each case is like a mystery with the illness the suspect.  It's probably why it fit into our viewing so easily.  The characters are also really well written and likeable.  

If you haven't done it yet - take a look!

Hebburn

If you get chance, check out this fantastic series which was on British television this year.  It's available on DVD.  We saw it while we were home and it's brilliant.  The Gran is just like mine!

Scrubs

Lately we have been getting into this series again.  I didn't realise there were a whole nine seasons.  We are going at a rate of about one season a week and we're at the end of series three.  It's fantastic!  It never gets old.  I think Dr Cox is my favourite character.

It's Back!

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As well as the new school year, here's something else that is going to be taking up my time until Christmas now - Strictly's back!  I love love love this show, for so many reasons: the amazing dresses, the wonderful dancing, the comedy moments and of course, it means the countdown to Christmas, cheering me up on the cold, rainy nights.

To top it off, I think it's really hard to call this year!  So many great stars who could be good contenders.  I think Kimberly and Nicky will do well as they've both danced as part of their careers...let's see with the others.  Who are you betting on?