The crew at Sterling Cooper has returned to our lives. With only three episodes into its third season, AMC’s emmy award winning “Mad Men” is off to a slow, but solid start. Leaving fans short of breathe from Season 2’s October finale, all of the unanswered questions can’t help but illicit a bit of obsession. Would Joanie actually end up marrying aggressive Doctor Greg after “the incident” in Don’s office? Could Pete Campbell ever put his own selfish needs aside and realize how much damage he’s done to poor Peggy? Am I the only person on this planet who wants them to be together? And what would be in store for the tension filled Draper household? So finally… the wait is over, and I won’t deny that I have been a little bit disappointed.

Season three began with no major revelations. In fact, things seem almost bland and ordinary in the offices of Sterling Cooper, save for some changing relationship dynamics. Peter is back to being his whiney self, kvetching over this and that. Don and Betty seemed to have reconciled their failing marriage, even while Don continues to prove that a cheating leopard can’t change its spots. And yes, Joanie married Doctor Psycho, but without the bat of an eyelash.

But after tonight’s episode, “My Old Kentucky Home,” things are starting to get rolling. Peggy Olson now has her own office, a newly discovered confidence, and the respect of her misogynist co-workers, but is starting to realize that her success at the office and old-fashioned values is translating into a lonely and unfulfilling lifestyle. After forcing herself to socialize at a bar in last week’s episode, hot-boxing the offices at Sterling Cooper for “inspiration,” and finally getting some action, a new daring Peggy has blossomed in the best way possible.

Roger Sterling, the shallow charmer, has moved forward with his engagement to his hussy secretary, meanwhile butting heads with Don, and locking eyes tenderly with Joanie at the office. Ah, and poor Joanie, who married Greg (the molester!), began to see the fear and consequences of his domination over her take its toll.

So I feel reassured that season three is picking itself up, merlot in hand, with so many great things to come. Will baby Draper be able to solve Betty and Don’s marital strife, or will it only add fuel to the flame? Will Peggy’s taste of liberation go too far and destroy everything she’s worked so hard for? Will Joanie ever be able to escape from her Lifetime movie marriage? And will Peter ever confess his love for Peggy again (I see baby Campbell-Olson making a jarring appearance)? Stay tuned Mad-Maniacs, because this season is only going to get better and better.