Project: Liberal Porn

There's a new sense of purpose illuminating life at Casa M & T. Sure, I might still have boxes of clothes to unpack, bare walls to fill, and then there's the issue of our inspiration-less bedroom decor. But no matter, because life is fresh and new again due to a commitment forged over drinks and patio grilling. The life-changing decision?

We will watch the entire series of The West Wing from start to finish. Project: Liberal Porn, if you will.

Your eyes do not deceive you. T happens to own the box set of the greatest network drama of our time. And between the two of us, we've probably already seen every episode (more credit goes to T here - I admit to nodding off during the Jimmy Smits years), but we have never watched them sequentially, from start to finish. Until now.

We are not attempting to do this marathon-style, never fear. I left behind my ability to stay up for days on end in graduate school. Plus, the show aired for seven years. Although it could be much worse than a fatigue- and hunger-induced death peppered with Aaron Sorkin's wit and speedy dialogue, I'm okay sticking around for a while longer. I will pace myself accordingly.

We're only eight episodes into Season 1, and here's what I have for you so far:

• Shoes were really, really chunky in 1999
• Necklines were also supremely unflattering
• Thank goodness "The Regis" look for men is no more

Oh, I'm sorry, you expected more than a fashion report? Okay.

• Oh yes, executive damnation for the Right's worst behavior traits!
• Oh look, you can drive right onto the Capitol steps!
• Man I love these characters
• The series finale romances are already in place
• Moira Kelly, what are you doing with yourself these days?
• Everyone is so young and adorable with bad 1999 hair! (oops, that was kind of fashion-y)

Fun times over at our place, as you can see. My fantastic sister-in-law (who also delights in pointing out terrible shoes with me) joined us for our first two installments. In my nerd fantasy life, I imagine a rotating cast of West Wing fans who will join us as we get to their favorite parts of the series:

"I want to watch Bartlet's reelection campaign to gear up for 2012!"

"Call me when Mary Louise Parker arrives!"

"Let me know when they're doing Supreme Court appointments." 

So, you know, feel free to sign up and all. :-)

Deep thoughts: How about a West Wing drinking game? One shot for every sweeping musical interlude? One shot for every brilliant takedown of a bad guy political operative? One shot for every defense of the Constitution despite the political damage that might ensue? One shot for every time Josh should have married Donna THEN AND THERE? Three shots for every eery foreshadowing of the Obama presidency? You know you want in!