my big brained husband just said to unplug the machine! d'oh. perhaps this is the solution, but I wonder if it'll still auto drain.

Unplugging the machine is the only way to prevent the soak from draining when the programmed elapsed time is reached. The machine, of course, cannot drain if it has no electric power.

Regards to tricking the lid lock for observation ... that is possible but requires an understanding of how the lock works.

Perhaps an easier method is to remove the two screws that anchor the top so it can be raised with the lid still closed/locked. There are two rubber bumpers on edge of the top deck near the front corners. Carefully pry them out and remove the screws beneath. Replace the bumpers. Store the screws in a safe/known location in case you want to replace them at a later time. Keep in mind that you cannot raise the top if you have bleach in the dispenser (or softener if your machine has a softener dispenser) ... it will spill out.

TADA! Thanks. It's not exactly elegant but once I find a prop I'll be able to see if my diaper washing load is soup, stew, or chili consistency. FTR you want stew.

As to storage of the screw I just put them back in only head down, upside-down, and then replaced the bumper. Worked like a charm.
You are seriously the best advice giver on this forum, thank-you.

PS now I can clean scrud off the top of basket housing. Yee-haw