@Fya: Yeah, I love the Stark house. Ned is by far one of my favourite characters.
And I'm all for their independent kindom of the north. I also love Aria, Robb and Caithlin. My feelings towards Sansa are a bit complicated, I can't understand her behaviour 100%, but most of the time I just feel sorry for her.
@Nightingale: Living in Germany I also don't have HBO, but I watched part of the series online, and a friend of mine has the DVDs, so luck for me. ^^
Hope you find some way to watch them, I don't know the books, but the series is certainly well-made. Cast, scenery and outfits alone are worth watching..
Btw, I also love Littlefinger and Varis. They have some of the best conversations, and I love that they aren't on the side of any house, but try to achieve their own goals. Gives their actions some spice..