Today is not only St. Patrick's Day, but it also marks the return of one of my favorite current shows, "How I Met Your Mother."

As I have mentioned in the past, the writers strike -- which began in November and lasted 100 days -- left little to no new episodes of scripted TV series. But, today, after more than three months away without a new episode, my favorite New York fivesome is back.

Ironically, the show takes place on St. Patrick's Day (which is much better than another show, which, because TV executives decided to hold some completed episodes, just got around to airing its holiday episode). I can't wait to see what kind of hijinks Ted, Barney, Robin, Marshall and Lily get into. And, I hear Vanessa Minnillo is the guest star.

Next week is the much-reported appearance of Britney Spears, along with Sarah Chalke. (Chalke plays the dermatologist Ted sees about removing his 'tramp stamp' and Spears is her receptionist who falls for him.) I adore Chalke from my absolute favorite current show, "Scrubs," but I know Spears can do comedy from her spot on "Will & Grace" a few years ago. I wouldn't watch the show just to see how this casting stunt turns out, but since I'm already a fan of this show -- again on the bubble -- I'm not going to turn off the TV, either. Plus, the HIMYM cast has been saying nothing but good things about Spears, and I can't wait to see what happens.