GH has lightened up a lot recently, shootings notwithstanding. I've thought the show was too mob-centric in the past, but nowadays the violence is punctuated by wonderfully entertaining scenes between women. And often at work, no less! I love Alexis and Diane's friendship, which overrode career competitiveness to thrive on what they have in common (brains, wit, ambition, world weariness). The banter is smart and funny and refreshing for daytime in general, and GH in particular. Much like the back-and-forth at Kate's new magazine, where the imperious editor oversees squabbling Maxie and Lulu. It's a clever set-up, having two strong-willed, very different young women who already can't stand each other battling to make a good impression on their frosty boss. ("And that's my problem...why?" sniffed Kate when Lulu complained about working with Maxie.) Of course we all love drama and romance in our soaps, but well-placed laughs and female friendships and rivalries that are not about men are a breath of fresh air.