TV personality

Okay, so I've put it off long enough. Here it is, my big confession: I've been watching episodes of "Punky Brewster" on DVD. A couple a night, while eating my dinner after work. Let the scoffing commence.

Hey, this was my favorite show back when I was in elementary school, and I'm curious to see how it holds up. I'm also curious to see how many of my quirks were influenced by the television programming of my childhood.

I have to say, the second season is far more ambitious than the first, in terms of educating us young'uns. Nearly every episode so far has been "heavy," dealing with issues like kidnapping by non-custodial parents; the perils of shoplifting; gender discrimination; acceptance of diversity; and so on.

It seems like every installment, I lean over and say, in a solemn voice, "This is a very special episode of 'Punky Brewster.' "

So does the show hold up? Well, it's no "Family Ties." The kids can't really act all that well, and the writing is -- well -- aimed at children. But it's fun to relive my past. Now leave me alone already.