Steady Stream

Nothin’ but ‘net...internet, that is

I think we can all agree: Watching TV shows on an actual television is so over: The ‘Net is where it’s at now, baby! You can even pick your poison: From Netflix to Hulu to major networks, most everything can be found online. We can watch what we want, when we want, and even put a few bucks back in our pockets because we’ve kissed our pricey cable bills goodbye. What’s not to love?

I’ll tell you what’s not to love: My new addiction to online streaming, that’s what. For me, it all started with my gateway drug: Netflix (it starts with the free membership, that’s how they hook you). At first, I used it recreationally—ya know, for the documentaries. But, my habit took a turn for the worse when they added television shows.

From Mad Men to Breaking Bad to Downtown Abby, it’s all at my disposal for a cool $7.99 a month. Suddenly Friday nights at home catching up with John Hamm and Christina Hendricks sounded like more fun than going out (I’m saving money! I won’t be hungover on Saturday! The excuses were endless). I’m fine admitting I might need an intervention, but can we do it after Season 5 of Mad Men makes it online? —ms