The common sentiment on the ng seems to be that the whole Quinn/Helen vs. Sandi/Linda thing has already been run into the ground. I agree.
However, I'd like to see Helen...well, grow a backbone, for want of a better term. Linda actively, if subtly, insults Helen to her face, and insults Quinn. What I'd _really_ like to see is something like this:
(Linda and Helen are on the phone for some reason. It could happen!) Linda: (after some lame "Sandi did this, that, and the other thing speech)...so we're celebrating; Sandi's so talented. [or something like that. I'm not too good at this stuff.] Helen: Yes, we're going to be celebrating at our house, too. Linda: Oh, did Quinn actually do something noteworthy? Helen: Quinn often does noteworthy things. But I mean Daria. Linda: Daria? Helen: Yes. My other daughter. Linda: So...what did she do? Helen: (casually) Oh, her grade on her latest essay was the highest in her grade...again. It's something of a cumulative celebration. Linda: ..... Helen: Her English teacher keeps telling us she could be published, but we certainly won't push her. (pauses) Actually, I think her teacher- Mr. O'Neill- teaches English I. How _is_ Sandi doing in English? I'm _sure_ she's excelling, as well. Linda: Umm...actually, English isn't Sandi's best subject. (getting an idea) But I'm sure you'd understand... Helen: Oh, you mean Quinn? [OK, maybe she wouldn't lie like this, but I still want to see it:] Not really. One of her essays was printing in the school paper in the "Smart Thoughts" column. Well, if you'll excuse me, I need to start dinner. (hangs up.)
Well, I'm not very good at the writing thing, but you get the general idea.
Ta-ta, all. I'm off to my vacation...and no 'Net access. (*sniffle*)