One of my favorite things about my digital cable package is the "On Demand" feature. If you are not familiar with this feature, and if it is offered in your area, you should seriously consider using it.

What is On Demand? Quite simply, it is an archive of hundreds of television shows, movies, sporting events and specials that you can watch any time you want-- on demand. On Demand contains a vast queue of programs to choose from-- everything from the local news to your favorite music videos. Most of the shows are free to watch, although there is an additional charge for special Pay for View events and certain movies. Still, in our household we enjoy using On Demand on a daily basis. Here are some of the highlights (this is only a small sampling of what's available) .

HBO On Demand-- If you already subscribe to a premium cable channel, the On Demand feature will allow you to choose from an archive of shows and movies whenever you want. I enjoy watching "Sex and the City" episodes whenever I want, while my husband selects his favorite movies.

Tube Time-- For any fan of classic television, this channel is the ultimate. This month Tube Time features episodes of SWAT, Maude, Diff'rent Strokes and several more classic shows. Once again, you watch all of them on your timetable.

Nick Jr. On Demand-- This is a favorite in our house. All of our favorite kid's shows-- everything from Blue's Clues to Dora the Explorer is on this channel. They even offer special episodes of new programs-- the "Let's Build" and "Let's Farm" segments are favorites of my preschoolers.

MTV On Demand-- If you are fan of the MTV "Real World" and "Challenge" programs, this is a great place to catch up on missed episodes. They are currently airing "The Inferno Challenge" series in its entirety.

Food Network on Demand-- This is another one of my favorites, especially around the holidays when they air all of the Christmas cookery shows. I can watch my favorite cooking shows, "The Barefoot Contessa" and "Emeril Live" whenever I feel like it. You've got to love that!

Fitness on Demand-- That's right, there is a special fitness section chock full of workouts that you can do whenever you want in the convenience of your own home. Hey, it beats going to the gym!

Real Estate on Demand-- My package offers virtual tours of local real estate that is for sale. If you're in the market for a new home, you don't even have to leave your couch to take a walk through some beautiful homes.

Free Movies on Demand-- Every month there are dozens of free movies offered, in addition to the Pay Per View selections. In fact, there are so many great movies offered that I rarely use Pay Per View, as I can always find something free to watch.

Finally, if On Demand isn't available in your area, consider calling your local cable company to request that they add it to their lineup. It requires a digital cable box and a monthly digital package premium, but it is well worth it if you want to watch your favorite shows any time you want.