See, and I really didn't find the first series that soapy, so it was a disappointment for me that it went in that direction. If I'd found it soapy from the beginning, I would have been much more willing to forgive that soapiness, if that makes sense?

I loved watching her grow as an independent young woman with a budding career she claimed for herself despite her parents' misgivings.

But I didn't feel like we got to see much of that! The first episode or two (which largely worked for me), yes, but after that her storyline seemed to be subsumed into the Branson one. I wanted more for her!

I also really liked having the hospital at Downton and the mixing of classes which necessarily happened.

Agreed! That was one of the things that really worked! I just thought it was explored in nearly enough detail. I love the large cast, but it makes it difficult to really explore thing to the depth that I'd like.

I'm actually quite looking forward to the Christmas special, too. I think that since it doesn't really have to further the plot if it doesn't want to, we could get some really interesting character stuff, which I'd love.