October 2008

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What's going on with the strip?





General Comments
About The Hybrid Strips
From the FBorFW Team
Lynn Answers Your Mail
About Shannon Lake
About Elizabeth's Life
Grandpa Jim & Iris

Wednesday, October 8, 2008
October 8, 2008

I wish you well in your retirement years. I know you will be very busy as my wife and I are in our retirement. I miss my daily dose of your strips but have all your books to read over and over again. I do hope you will be printing one final book to bring everybody up to date with your last strips, maybe even add some extra, bonus strips. Our friends and I talk about your strip so my wife says she now wants to read your books to catch up on what we are talking about. I will continue to read your daily strips on my computer to refresh myself and to compare to your books.

Gordon B, Toronto, Ontario

Yes there is another collection book in the works...I'm just designing the cover now. The working title is "Something Wonderful" and it will contain everything up until the end of the syndicated story.

As for future "Patterson related" publications... stay tuned! We are working on some ideas for a book (or books) that would follow the Patterson clan for a few years into the future. Beth Cruikshank, who has been doing all the character histories has some great tales in mind…and we'll keep you posted as the project evolves. Thanks for asking!!

Lynn

Take me back to the top!

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New Format for Elly's Coffee Talk
October 3, 2008

To the readers and participants of Coffee Talk,

Thanks for stopping by! As you can tell from the last month of postings, the transitioning of the strip back in time has definitely stirred up the java that flows in our little gathering place. Lynn is very grateful for all the kind words and wishes that have been passed along - she always has enjoyed her coffee with a bit of sugar!

There have been an impressive number of questions and comments regarding the transition and, as you can see, quite a bit of repetition to some of them. While Lynn appreciates the feedback that keeps her up to speed with what readers are thinking, Coffee Talk’s current format does not seem to be the best way to attend to these kinds of submissions. In light of this, we are going back to the grinder and giving Coffee Talk a makeover of its own for the next few months.

You can still spill your beans to us the same way you always have and the staff and Lynn will be able to read any and all submissions that come in. What’s new is that we won’t be publishing the submissions for all to see. Instead, we will take the best comment or question from each week and Lynn will reply to it. Every Wednesday we will put on a fresh pot of coffee and publish the best question or comment (from the previous week) along with Lynn’s response.

This new Coffee Talk will begin immediately and continue to percolate into the new year. Depending on what is brewing by the spring, we may shake things up again and go back to the discussion format.

We will still give away a print every month and will select the winner randomly from all submissions that month (not just the ones that get picked for response). So keep the notes coming! Lynn is looking forward to joining in the chat every week!

Take me back to the top!

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Friday, October 3, 2008
October 3, 2008

I have followed FBorFW for over 25 years. My first memory of it is strips my Mother cut out and pasted inside a cabinet door. Being as I am only a little older than Liz, I enjoyed following her story line over the years, as well as those of Michael and April. I was disappointed by her decision to marry Anthony and I am further disappointed by the decision to rewind the comic and go back to the beginning. I no longer find myself eagerly turning to the "funny pages" to see what the day's strip will be. I appreciate Lynn's work over the years and I am sorry that she made this decision.

Kathleen, Long Island, NY

I have been teaching overseas for 10 years and my FBorFW.com was always my first entry as soon as I turned my computer on. I have been reading the strip since it started.

I understand Lynn's reason for rerunning past strips, but the excitement has gone for me. I know how everything turns out. I know that Michael gets Farley and what happens to Farley, etc, etc. I am envious of the new readers who get to read it all for the first time.

I go days now without FBorFW.com. Sigh!

MM, USA

I've always looked forward to reading FBOFW every day. Now that I thought I'd be losing it, though, I realize I savor it more than I used to. Just wanted you to know, and thanks for not throwing in the towel!

Angela, Pennsylvania

I discovered "For Better or For Worse" during Elly's pregnancy, when I was pregnant with my son, who was born five months after April. Like Elly, I struggled with the trials and tribulations of teenagers (two girls) and a baby, husband, dog, and cat, and the fact that realty isn't always politically correct. And there were times I swore that Lynn was looking in my windows somehow. I sought out the earlier books in the collection--to catch up on the Patterson history--but always knew that there were strips and stories missing in them.

I'm enjoy the chance to go back and see those missing moments. Thanks for the opportunity to do so.

Judi L, Wisconsin

Thanks so much for the wonderful years of your humour and insight. FBFW is the only comic strip I read and I follow it where ever we travel. Now that I have the time to relax I am looking forward to the new/old strip - its like reading a great book a second time !

Marianne C, Sudbury by way of Hamilton

Add me to the throngs of people who enjoy Lynn's artful intersection of fiction and reality. How lucky (and smart)she is to get to "do over" her life's work, and improve upon an already well-done masterpiece. We should all be so lucky (and smart) in life.

Ellen G, Ohio

I'm sorry but try as I may I can't get into the new story line. I loved the old strip and it would be the first thing I would check on my computer in the morning. But the new strip just doesn't do it for me.
When I first started reading your comic we had young children it all sort of went togeather well. Our Kids are in their 20's now and the more adult comic with a more adult story line went well with life today.

I wish you well Lynn but I won't be seeing you in the funny papers.

Ian J, Cowichan Bay, BC

Several weeks ago I stumbled upon Hank Stuever's editorial about the end of FBorFW (Washington Post, August 28, 2008), and how millions of devoted FBorFW *haters* will be disappointed that the strip was over. I thought, "Gee. If people HATE it so much, it must be a really well-written strip." I came to your Web site, read through a zillion archives, and now am hooked! (In fact, I have added your site to my FireFox browser's "Morning Coffee" add-on. It automatically launches your site in my browser every morning, right there next to CNN and Yahoo!).

I am so pleased that I will have the chance to read this story from "the beginning," and I wonder how in the world I missed it all these years.

Rest assured that I am not the only newbie out there who is now a devoted fan. And to think -- I would never have found the Pattersons had you not "retired."

Thank you for such a warm, funny, and REAL story that I and so many others can relate to.

Janie J, Alburquerque, NM

Lynn, I have so enjoyed your comic strip for many years following along as the Patterson's life has mirrored my own. But now, I am 62 and understand the need to semi-retire. I am heading that way myself and know how hard it is to stop working when you really like your life. But time goes on and I really admire your courage in revisiting the Patterson's again. I did not see many of the first strips but most of the last 10 years. Thank you for continuing and letting us revisit and relive their family life. Unfortunately, our newspaper - The Washington Post - no longer carries your strip but I do have the option of reading it online.
All the best as you continue your life and again, thank you for keeping the Patterson's alive for your fans.

Margaret D, Arlington, VA

To Lynn, Love your comic For Better or For Worse. What an amazing woman you are to give such a wonderful rendering of life with each stroke of the pen. One of my all time favorite readings of the day is such a part of my life. The day Farley died I remember crying for a weeek after I read the strip.
I hope you will consider making FBOFW into a cartoon, so that a whole new gerneration will enjoy the life and times of Elly & John Patterson and family. Would love to see another book as well. I have been married 34 years this comic was and is a joy to read. Clipped out many close to home strips for on the fridge. Thank you for so many wonderful pictures of life around us. You touched our hearts, made us laugh and cry. Mostly LAUGH...
Bless You.

Tara M, Edinboro, PA

I grew up with your strip. I was raising my baby while Elly was raising hers. I will miss watching April turn into the woman she was approaching. But I am not sorry that you have gone back to the beginning. Wish I could, knowing what I know now. I hope you will miss the older family somewhat and mayber throw a book or two our way, just to catch us up to where they area as opposed to where they were. And maybe you could branch out a little more...I know there were side stories you wanted to tell...I find it interesting that both Michael and Elizabeth married their first loves. And that Michael's birthday is the same as mine. Thanks for the sympathy and the memories.

Debbi M, Tacoma Washington now

Dear Lynn,
As a former educator, I greatly appreciated your inclusion of important social issues, such as kind thoughts about the less able and persecuted among us. Will the new format bring in a few thoughts about the handicapped children of the world? I gave 25 years of my career to this field and you are about the only hope for a "bully" bully pulpit.

PS. Whatever you and your great team come up with is still just fine with me. I eagerly look forward to each new strip. Thanks SO much!

Martin W, Hermiston, OR

I've been reading the strip ever since it was picked up by the Detroit Free Press. I really identified with the middle Micheal/Elizabeth years, since I was a school libraian and could see them in my students. Then a bit late in life I had my kids at the same time as Mike and Dee ( girl first 5 months after Merideth was born, the a boy 3 months after Robin!) so I loved the strips about their life. I can now really appreaciate the new/old strips with Elly and Jon. Thanks for the great work and for sharing it in the USA. I did not figure out that the Pattersons even lived in Canada until you drew a picture of a postal box with a maple leaf on it!

Julie W, Indiana

hi Lynn,

While I respect your choice to do what you're doing with the strip, I'd sure enjoy the storyline more if it were about Michael and Deanna or Liz and Anthony ...

kind regards,

Ruth S, San Francisco

I buy our local paper every day and the comics are a fun part of my day. I read them all systamatically, leaving my favourite to last FBW. I have read and loved FBW for many years and am absolutely devestated to know it has come to the end of the road. Sadly our Advertiser newspaper has in its wisdom????? (not) decided not to run the re runs. My only consolatation is you still have your website for me to browse through. Many thanks for all the laughs the tears and the realism of your strip. April shares a birhtday with my grand daughter Ashleigh. They were born in the same year! Love and good wishes to you and yours. From the land Down Under. No we are not upside down. LOL

Rosalie Z, Northgate, a suburb of Adelaide, South Australia

Dear Lynn

thank you for all the wonderful years. i have read your strip for as long as i can remember and my life seems to parallel that of the elizabeth and michaels, kids, school etc. you make sense of this big world. thank you for making life happier,

Dee, Adelaide, South Australia

I can not rememeber the first time I started learning about and enjoying the Patterson's but I know that I can not start my day without reading them first - before anything. Your strip sets the tone of my day whether it is a sad or funny moment, it makes think to always see another side of things - no matter what. So how do you thank some one who has become a part of your heart when thank you seems such a little word and not enough. May you always brighten my day no matter what format you have chosen to use to do that - you will always bring me laughter, wisdom and a reality check. Merci beaucoup

Betty M, Oshawa, Ontario

I remember when mike put a grubby sock on every door knob in the house, When Elizabeth slammed the toilet seat on Farleys head and John thought his dog training skills were improving. The most beutifull comic strip I ever saw was the sun blazing in on the litter which contained Edgar, and John asking "why are you all looking at me?" I also remember Billy asking Dolly and Jeffy, "Do you think Grandpa plays with the Pattersons Dog farley up in heaven?"

Scince we dropped the paper a year or more ago I have been reading the strip in two month chunks, I just read from July '08 to aug. 31st. All I can say is this,-

Thank-you, so much, for a good job so very well done, all these years.

Alec N, Live in NC

Take me back to the top!

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Thursday, October 2, 2008
October 2, 2008

Lynn, I'm so very glad that my daughter will have the opportunity to raise her children with Elly and her young family. The re-write, re-draw is not about "us" it's about a new generation having the opportuntiy to grow up with some sage advice and knowing that everything that happens in life is pretty much "normal".
You're putting the "fun" back into Dys-fun-ctional!
Thanks so much.

MJ, Libertyville, IL, US,eh?

I loved the suspenseful and funny story lines of the original series, as well as the superb illustration. I was hooked! Thanks for all the wonderful years -- they coincided with the growth of my own family. The new format doesn't interest me, since I already feel like I know the story. I'm not reading it much any longer, but I wish you well. (And if it doesn't work out, you can always pretend that Elly was just having a nightmare return to raising young kids!)

Lelah, Pennsylvania

Today's (Tuesday's) comic hit home! I'm pretty new at this mothering business (5 months into it, to be exact), but I definitely know where Elly is coming from.
Sure, the comics are "old", but that doesn't mean they're not relevant! Good work, Lynn!

Crystal W, Huron, SD

Dear Lynn, All that I can say is "Thank You" from the bottom of my heart. Today is 9/30/08. September 24, 2008 I turned 60 years young, and every day I look forward to your strip. I wasn't able to read the comic pages every day, back in the eighties, when you started, I was just going through a divorce and trying to raise a thirteen year old son, on my own. I do, however, remember that your comic strip was the first one and sometimes the only one that I looked for when I was able to, when at last I sat down, at the end of a day and took a breath. I supported my son and myself with a job that I was able to retire from in 2000, after 31 years and with child support hardly enough to even mention. I so looked forward to the trials and tribulations of the Patterson family, because they were so much like mine, and even though this was a comic strip, I knew that it was so very true to life.

Before I knew it, my son was graduating from high school and on his way to college. It wasn't easy for either one of us. Like the Patterson's when they lost Farley, my son and I cried when we had to have our beloved dog, Lady, put to sleep. I couldn't even afford to take her to a vet when she wasn't able to eat any longer and her back legs became paralyzed. We had to call the dog pound. So much of what happened to the Patterson family happened to us. I missed a lot of their lives though, because I was just trying to live, and was unable to keep up with them, so I love the old and new strip.

Now, Lynn, my rear end is much larger than I would like for it to be and I have the strip about Elly coping with her "new face" under the desk protector on my desk. As far as all of the negative comments that you have gotten from, the negative people" of this world, I say "Let them keep living" and they will one day see what's important and what's best just left alone, and un-said. In this day and time, we must learn how to better "choose our battles". We have too many complaints and not enough thank you's. You are doing what you think is best for you and for that I say, "You go girl". Embrace your God, your family, your age, your loved ones and your peace of mind. I will always remain one of your favorite fans.

Sandra B, San Antonio, TX

Lynn,
I am a long time reader and was quite surprised to hear the end of the strip announced.

I love the work you do and the depth of character in your strip has always been amazing.

I just discovered the announcement about the strips restart, read a couple of the new strips and am so pleased to see that you are adding depth to the original storylines.

Great work and thank you so much for not just ending the strip outright.

A continuing fan,

Mike H, Madison, WI

I have loved your strip for years. I have cried with the Pattersons when they have lost beloved family members, and rejoiced with them during happy times. We also started over, our son is now 20 and our daughter is 4!! I have empathy with Elly when April joined the brood! It turns your life upside down--but is so worth it! Having another child while in my 40's was not how I imagined things would be but she is such a joy! Wears me out but I wouldn't trade it for anything! When my beloved little dog died a year ago and I placed the clip of Farley as a ghost following Elizabeth and her friend when they are commenting that sometimes it feels as if he is still there, on a special scrapbook page. Thank you so much for all the pleasure, laughs, and tears you have created and shared through the years!

Shelly M, Alaska

I am finding great comfort in the new old strip. I wish I could personally go back to a simpler time in my life. I didn't know how good I had it then.

Cecilia, Georgia

Ah, the age-old conundrum....wanting hubby to do more around the house but then don't like it because it isn't done "right". Really, its only different. Embrace the difference! Let him work! Sit down and finally read that morning paper!

Christina W, Corning, NY

I too was totally absorbed in the family saga, like they were old friends. I teared up reading the finale. I've spent more time than I'll admit (especially to my boss!) reading all I could on this website - my spot of refuge during hectic days. I'm amazed at the biographies. I thought I'd enjoy the "reruns" a little more than I am, but rather it feels more like I'm weaning myself off an addiction by taking milder doses! :-) I do enjoy it, and hope they continue. It's amazing how relevent the topics are even today. Surely wives since the dawn of time have wanted more help from our husbands in our own dysfunctional way! Thank you Lynn for years of enjoyment.

Sue R, Palm Harbor, FL

interesting, i wasn't sure how i was going to react to the younger family. i am excited to observe the small snapshots of the lives gone by. i look forward to the days of marion and jim, once again. i'd love to see farley again!! call me sentimental..
to see the growth of the family from the start. and imagine the hordes of new readers!!! thanks lynn.. :)

Annie, Oneota, NY

As an avid scrapbooker, my family and friends constantly look at my past albums. Not just what we look like now but how we looked like back then. These scrapbooks are stories. I have three children and being a stay at home mom with a 4 yr old, 2 yr old and newborn were busy times, but the pictures tell the world it was also fun. By looking back at your early strips again is like looking back at much loved photo albums, we need to know where we come from in order to go forward. Thanks for the daily's it is my morning read with coffee online every day.

Wendy D, North Bay, ON

Will you be doing any more animation of your comic strip? Even though you've gone back in time, it would be great to have some animation as before.

Tina S, Moss Beach, CA

I think it's funny that so many people commented on the missing carrier straps in the strip from Sept. 30th. I didn't even notice it until they pointed it out. And then I had to laugh because not only are the straps missing, but so is Lizzie's face! Oops! :) Count me among those who wish the storyline could have continued forever. But I am not one to begrudge someone her hard-earned semiretirement. I will miss following the Patterson family's lives in the present, but I'm very grateful for the wrap-up in the last strip. Not having closure would have been the worst torture! Thank you, Lynn, for a lifetime of wonderful memories. I look forward to whatever you may have in store for us.

Jacki S, Boston, MA

I'm thoroughly enjoying the new strips. Way to go Lynn!

Sam, Central Illinois

Michael Jordan...Brett Favre...and now, please...could it happen...LYNN JOHNSTON ???

Some real greats have retired, and come back to the "game"...I am hoping against hope that you will do the same. I love your work and always checked the site for the day's strip first thing every morning, but no more. It just isn't the same for me. It feels as if I knew a family well, that shared their ups and downs and life's milestones with me. I grew to care about them. Then suddenly, they are not sharing anything new, but handing me snippets of the surface issues of their past lives. I know, it's just a comic, these are not real people, and you need to do what's best for you. I do respect that. I am just trying to explain why it does not work for me. I miss new stories. Thank you so much for what you have done. We appreciate you sharing yourself with us as you have. All the best to you, in whatever you do.

Mary, Beloit, WI

I have enjoyed the strip for many years and really appreciated the wrap up on the characters as the story ended. I am 66 and still working (from home now) and truly understand the desire to step back from the full time deadlines etc. For many years I worked full time with a husband and 3 children so I know a lot of these "old" strips will look new to me and I will enjoy them all - some again. Now I can identify them with the grandchildren. Thanks for your time and talent that enriched our lives over the years. Enjoy the next phase.

Ann F, Columbus, Ohio

To the readers who complained that Elly and John's marriage roles should be 'updated' - studies show that women still do the majority of housework, whether they are stay-at-home moms or not. Lynn is showing one marriage, and it does not have to be a modern fairytale romance - it is about 2 individuals who are making a life together work, warts and all.

Jenny, Ontario

I had grave misgivings about how much I would continue to enjoy FBOFW once the story lines ended and began again. I sort of grew up along with the Patterson kids. What would the older strips be able to offer me now as an adult? Still, I continued to check in every day because I needed my daily fix. Well, I am delighted to report that I love the change in the strip. I may have grown up with the Patterson kids, but I'm now married and raising little ones of my own and can really understand Ellie in a way I couldn't have in the first run. So, thank you for continuing the strip in the new format, rather than shutting it down completely.

Annie P, Loomis, CA

I'm still mourning - the old stuff is just that, old. I loved what we had with the Pattersons, but don't think you can go backward.
Enjoy your retirement, Lynn, I'll miss you!

Glenda, Newport News, VA

MY wife an I have been readers from day one. We have enjoyed the FBorFW I, and we are enjoying FBorFW II. I understand the need for change, and we appreciate the light-hearted laughs of old. Just glad it didn't end. Just Do It! Thanks, you're one of a kind.

Richard F, Plymouth, MI

I'm seeing comments from readers not happy with Lynn's shift back to simpler beginnings. To the contrary, I find the "new re-runs" refreshing, and love that Lynn's taking the opportunity to start over and do some things differently. Hats off to you, Lynn Johnston, and please don't stop!

Maureen P, Denver, Colorado

Lynn,
I love your strip in all its formats. The art work that goes into creating it is fantastic. I really love seeing how your drawing style changed/ changing over time. I hope you enjoy your part-time retirment.

Cathy, Newmarket, Ontario

I absolutely love your comic strips!
It is perfectly fine to go back in time and recreate the life of Patterson's family again. I look forward to read them again and talk about it with my 2 daughters.
My youngest daughter was born just 2 weeks before April, so her enthusiasm, experiences, and frustration happened at my home too.
Thanks for staying with us and continuing with the comic strips.

Patricia R, Lake Oswego, Oregon

I find your column fun and relaxing but disappointing also. It seemed the Patterson clan would be forever now and not have to go back to the past. Anyone who has been there and done that has grown with you. Maybe there is a chance you can have your Patterson's day dream and bring the future back to present now in the strip. All the story lines had closure but it would make it fun how they got there. I would love that.
Cup of Joe to you

Sarah, Florida

I have been reading FBFW for years--my children were the same ages as Michael and Elizabeth and went through some of the same growing pains at the same time. Each day I looked forward to the continuing saga of the Patterson family--usually the first thing I read in the paper each a.m. I'm not sure I love the new format--would have loved the strip to continue and to see each family member evolve. Seems like something is missing in my day!

Maryann, League City, TX

I really miss Dee, the kids and the "Old Gang" The grown up Elizabeth and her new family. Jon? It feels as if someone has died.

I wish the Sunday comics could be the old version and the "new" young version could be the dailys.

Jlyn L, California

I loved every single thing about the strips! Although I am a little bummed that the series ended, I just want to thank Lynn for bringing such an inspiration through her artwork for the last 29 years. It just feels good to go back and read some of the classic strips all over again, bringing on the memories.

Jossy, CT

I am getting use to the new "old" strip and actually am beginning to like the revisitation. I guess we can all use our imaginations and write our own ending to all of the character's stories!

Thanks for keeping the strip fresh with the new style!

Gail, H, Guernsey, WY

I, too, loved the strip and enjoyed watching the kids grow up. The Patterson family was very much like my own, 3 kids 2 girls and a boy. I miss following them as they continue on in life.
I loved the last panel when Elizabeth and Anthony visited Grandpa Jim in the hospital and Iris's "For Better or For Worse" comment regarding the commitment of Marriage. I counsel young couples preparing for marriage at the church where I am a pastoral associate. I do understand your "retirement" and the dismay of the readers. My husband & I ran an apple orchard for over 40 years--we retired a year ago and bulldozed down all our apple trees. We left many people dismayed at our decision. None of our kids wanted to take over the orchard and we wanted to stay in our home in the orchard. An unkempt orchard is an eyesore and hard as it was to leave that part of our lives we did so with the satisfaction of knowing that we did our work well and now we are entitled to our new focus--retirement (of course no one ever really retires).
Love to you Lynn!

Cheryl D, Ossian, Indiana

I dearly loved the old FBOFW and I think Lynn did a fabulous job on the ending. The new style is really neat and just as endearing. I am still able ot get a great FBOFW "fix". :-) THANK YOU, LYNN. You are first class as always.

Ann B, Bremerton, Washington

My family and I have enjoyed the many years of FBOFW and getting to know the Patterson family. It's sad that it had to come to an end but its been great reading the old strips. Thanks and may God bless.

Heather B, Mill Creek, WA

I'm a college senior, and I've been following FBoFW about since I started university. As a male college student, I admit I was a little embarrassed as I was buying one of your collection books for the first time this week from the NAU bookstore. It's not an interest someone from my demographic would normally have, but I really couldn't help it. FBoFW is such an intricate, beautiful story; how could a book nerd like me not get hooked? And I don't blame you for completing the original storyline; a story is a beginning, middle and end, and FBoFW would never be complete without a real ending. I hope to buy the rest of the collection books eventually, and keep your treasure on the shelf with my other books. Thank you, Lynn, for your dedicated work all these years, even if I was only around for the final chapters.

Doug R, Flagstaff, Arizona

I have loved your strip as my children were growing up. As a matter of fact, I framed your "Abandon All Hope" cartoon, and it has hung in all my houses ever since. My children were roughly the same age as Michael and Elizabeth, so I raised them with your strip.
I am now the enchanted Nana of two beautiful children, and I am thrilled that my daughter will raise her children the way I did - with the help of your humour to put things in perspective. Thanks for going back for the next generation!

Pego M, Holland Landing, Ontario

Take me back to the top!

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Print Winner for September
October 1, 2008

Congratulations to Liz B. from San Diego, who is our Sunday print recipient for September. Thanks to everyone who wrote in; please keep spilling your beans and we'll be giving another print away next month!

Take me back to the top!

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Wednesday, October 1, 2008
October 1, 2008

As a working mom, I have to say that I have always related to Ellie just fine, despite not having the priviledge of staying at home with my kids. I'm still a mom, and I still have the same experiences with my kids. I think most women can even relate to the lonliness Ellie sometimes felt as a stay-at-home mom. Even though we work, we are still overwhelmed by the volume of chores, (often even moreso) and underappreciation. And have we all really become so buried in technology that we can't relate to kids who do something other than play video games? I'm proud to say my kids still do plenty of the same things I did as a kid, even though we have computers and other technology. Also, Farley turned into a family dog, but Mike was definitely the one pushing for him even the first time. I'm sure that Pattersons aren't the only family that gets a family dog on the request of a child.

Angela, Pennsylvania

I just miss the Patterson family at the time just before we went back in time. . It just isn't working for me-sorry.
Hugs!

Megan, Ohio

In the true spirit of the antics of For Better or For Worse true to life episodes I have to relate the following scare. Due to being in the service and traveling 400 miles round trip to visit my husband on the weekends I don't always get to keep up with the wonderful day to day FBorFW news. So please forgive my horror when I saw a flashback comic strip. I thought Lynn had died and the papers were doing FBorFW classics. Whew! It was just a nightmare and I woke up to find Lynn is as alive as ever.

Thank you and don't do that again!

Janet B, New Bern, North Carolina

Being young, I have just caught the tail end of your remarkable comic strip - thank you for the opportunity to finally read them from beginning to end...I'm excited to follow your strip for many years just as my mom did when I was young.

Jacquie L, Bellingham, WA

Hi. I have just finished reading the FborFw 10th anniversary book and the silver anniversary book. I. too have been an avid fan for many years. I really enjoyed reading Lynn's comments as well as Rod's, Aaron's, Katie's, Ralph's, and Beth's comments. I have gained a very different perspective on how each of their lives has been influenced by FBorFw and I understand how much time and energy Lynn did/does put into this very beloved strip. Yes, I really enjoyed reading the old strips again. Take away the modern electronics, and families today still have the same issues( sibling jealousy, kids wanting pets, kids are bored, etc)For the fans who dislike the new/old strips, please go to a bookstore and read the comments from Lynn and family from these two books that I mentioned and you may have a different respective .Yes , Lynn was a working mother.

Cynthia C, Winnipeg

I love your comic strip!

Syndey H, California

I'm only 16 however, I've been reading for better or for worse since I was old enough to read. Before that I watched the Animated series on teletoon every single day. It was one of my favorite shows and was so sad when it stopped airing. Although I realize that Lynn Johnston, has no future plans on making another television series, but since there have been no aired television shows on for fborfw except "the bestest present" and the other animated series for teletoon in almost over a decade. Would you not say that this would be a great business oppurtuinity to promote fborfw, during the time which so many readers are leaving because of the new/old strip? Just a thought that I had to write even if I don't get published.

Loyal Reader till the end,

Kathleen, Vancouver, British Columbia

A mother's job is never done,well it's not done till you push them out the door with all there stuff and change the locks.

Bridget Q, New Glasgow, NS

I have written in the past and told you how I was upset about the change. I have read your new letter and I understand why you have changed the strip, but I as many others will always miss the continuing saga that I grew to love. Everyday I could not wait for the adventure to continue. I wish you the best, but I find no enjoyment out of the new strip. I took the paper just to read it. I like a few others will not be reading it anymore. God Bless you always a former reader and big fan.

Shari, California

Nitpicking: Who or what is holding up Liz in the last panel in today's strip? (Tues, Sept 30). That is assuming, of course, that that is Liz' head I see behind Elly while she's taking out the garbage? It looks like the straps of the baby carrier is gone...

Love the strip. I'm about Mike's age and had started reading FBofFW when Mike and Liz were in highschool. It's nice to see their beginnings. :)

Kity T, NJ

Reading the old strips has been a lot of fun. My wife and I been reading some of the books too. Brings back a lot of good memories and fun. Glad the strip will be continuing. Thanks.

David S, Des Moines, IA

Great strip, but you left out the straps on the carrier in the last panel. Maybe drawing in Lizzie's head was a last minute addition?

Amy D, Vienna, Virgina

Oh, I love this retro look at life with babies! I know my husband reads them each day so keep up the good work as you remind him how much a stay-at-home mom does in a day. It is such a hard job and not many see the value in it, especially done right. Yeh, Elly!

Lynn, Chassell, MI (The Upper Peninsula)

I am reading all of these comments, and as much as I swore I would never write here again, I just have to.
I think these people complaining about your new take on the old strip are insane. First off, the drawing style is almost no different than where you left off. A few less lines and Elly's hair is down, but really, there is nothing simplistic about it. It's still well done, and follows the same humor bent that it ever did.
I loved you back when...I love you now...and like anything else in life, if someone else doesn't like it, they should just not read it.
If you can't say something nice...

Christine K, The Sticks, NY

I have grown up with For Better or For Worse. I have always related so closely to Elizabeth (I have an older brother, I was a teacher, etc.) Now I am the mother of two young children and am so thrilled to find myself relating to Elly now that the strip has gone back to the beginning. Thank you for continuing the strip in this way! It brings a smile to face every day!

Katie, Madison, WI

I've been reading FBOFW for YEARS, not sure how many, I lost count. I was sad when you started over. The Patterson family is so much a part of our family and to have it abruptly end and go back seemed strange. I felt it should have keep going and evolving. However I respect your reasons for going back to the beginning. It probebly was getting complicated and too many characters. We'll keep reading every day and I suggest if I may, could you make the next Patterson family story different? Thank you for your comic strip. I don't usually read comic strips but your strip was special.

Mary D, West Lebanon, NH

I have admired Lynn's work since the early 1980s. Her early work is still admirable, but for me, I have no interest in re-runs.

I would rather that the characters were given to a new stable of artists, with Lynne writing the continuing storyline, or even, eventually, turning that over to another, trusted soul who spent a long time with them. "For Better or For Worse" could have been a multi-generational Canadian 'national strip' of sorts, with Lynn having the courage to pass it on to new hands, like a company she founded and ran. She has every right to take the more personal route and say "Elly c'est moi!" - and leave it at that - but I simply wish she had gone another route.

Best wishes to you for the rest of your life all the same, Lynn.

Joel, California

Hi Lynn,
I can't believe how many people seem to begrudge you your semi-retirement! They should just be grateful that you're putting out comics at all. If they don't like them, they don't have to read them. (Of course, I didn't apply that philosophy to myself very well, as I read through the Liz-Anthony strips with gritted teeth).
I didn't expect to have any interest in the new "old" strips, and indeed I don't rush to read them like I did the originals, but I am really enjoying them regardless. I started reading FBOFW when I was in elementary school, and just saw Elly as a typical (thus old) mom. It was Liz and Michael I identified with, not Elly. Now that I'm 31 and have friends with young children, I see young-mom-Elly in a totally new light and am really curious to go back and re-read the old books to see if she was always this interesting. Kudos for winning over one skeptical reader!

Amy, Toronto

I am enjoying the new strip,it is great to be able to start over and see what I might have missed. My new goal now is to stay healthy and read about Liz's wedding the second time around!

Debbie E, Michigan

I understand why you've moved on to other things and I wish you much success. However, I, and many of my friends, loved learning and growing with the Pattersons. The new format -going back to when the strip first started is not a draw for us. We've been there, done that - most of us have read FBFW since it's inception. We wanted to continue with the family and see new grandchildren, April's career, Anthony's and Liz's marriage - all the wonderful things families experience.

Sad to say, our newspaper here doesn't even carry the new format. We feel we've lost friends and good times.

Suzanne C, Tennessee

Today's strip is yet another reason why your plan of rerunning the original strip is terrible. I previously stated that you should use these previous story lines in the present day only with Mike and Deanna's family. Today's strip would be the exception. "My husband's day ends at 5"!! Puh leez! A stay at home mom does handle the majority of the household responsibilities, even today. However, the man is not excused from pitching in and helping simply because his career takes him outside of the home. Like marriage, parenthood is team work. Elly and John are married and live together, with 2 kids, actually 3 but you've erased April, get him off his duff and help out. And have Elly's friend slap her for her even saying that!

Vickie, OKC, OK

I have to say one last time that I HATE Elizabeth and Anthony getting together. The biography of him came across as "lets take all reader complaints and tweak him to make the readers like him more". Yuck!

That being said, I LOVE the new/old strips that you are doing now. Having grown up on the old stuff it is very near and dear to my heart. I even liking the drawing style better so I am once again very happy to be reading your strip.

Colleen, California

Lynn, I cannot tell you how sorry I was to see you end your strip. FBFW was always my favorite strip to read everyday. I looked forward to seeing what was happening to the Patterson's, their family and friends. I don't read the strip anymore, I relate more to the "grown-up's", not the kids. If you don't like the stress of creating a new strip every day, then end it! Retire and enjoy yourself.

Nancy R, Waterford, PA

I never realized how important April's character is to young viewers. My 16 yearold daughter commented that she misses April's storyline~April was her comic role model.

Mary, Georgia

Just wanted to point something out to the reader who "isn't looking forward to Farley or Marian dying again." I for one wasn't looking forward to Jim dying, or Eddie and Dixie, either. We all have to remember that if Lynn had kept going as she has for the past 29 years, eventually we would have to see all our favorite characters die. And if it's hard on us, just think how difficult it is for her!

Angela, Pennsylvania

I'm one of those 'fans' who continue to read your strip. I put fan in quotes because I'm really only looking in hopes that you'll change your mind and bring back my beloved family. Not the retro version; the up to date Pattersons. Sadly, I feel my cause is lost. I won't check back as often ... the new old strip just doesn't hold my attention. Thank you for allowing me the many years of enjoyment with all the Pattersons and their growing families. I wish you luck.

Ruby, Ohio

I can't get over how many people feel they need to criticize Lynn for her decision to go back in time with her own comic strip. Kudos to Lynn for sticking with the strip and not simply ending it as originally planned. Granted, I didn't want to see the story end either, but I am standing behind Lynn with her new work and looking at it in the way I think Lynn wants us to...seeing into the lives of the Pattersons in more detail than we were allowed the first time around. I'm keeping the end in my mind while enjoying the insight into their younger years which allows us to see how Lynn formed the characters into what we faithful readers know them to be. Thank you Lynn for your dedication to the most wonderful strip ever! Blessings,

Michelle, Ohio

Well, I just wanted to say that I thoroughly enjoyed the first FBOFW series. I didn't get to read all of the strips over the years, but, nonetheless, I managed to stay current with what was happening to everyone. I read as Lawrence came out, Farley passed away after saving April, the new puppy that looked like him, and later on when he grew up, his female friend was brought in. I've watched Elly open her bookstore, then close it, both Elly and John retire from their jobs, and finally, I watched the kids grow up and move on with their own lives, ending with Elizabeth's wedding. The stories had a lot of depth and heart, while maintaining that wry sense of humor that was a constant over the years.
I have to say, I'm thoroughly enjoying the new strip as well. The art is fantastic. I had a chance to compare Lynn's art when she previously published the classic strips as a flashback. Huge difference between then and now. The material written now is still fresh, although I do feel it is written from a kind of "back in the day" point of view, where the wife is a stay-at-home mom, and the father has a full-time job. I appreciate the writing in spite of that. I plan to be able to read all the strips this time around. I won't miss out a second time. Sorry this letter is long, but as a long-time reader, I had a lot to say. Lynn, keep up the good work, and thank you for bringing us such realistic, heart-felt stories. I find them more interesting than soap operas.

Colleen M, Ware, MA

Lynn, I have been reading your strip for many years & got so upset when I saw you ending the strip, so I am thrilled that you are just "starting over." I look forward to many more years of the Pattersons. (I cried my eyes out when your dog saved April and lost his own life.) Thanks for everything.

Susie S, Montgomery, AL

...Diane G. from Quebec is right, I've noticed too.

Gaetan D, Quebec City, Quebec

I want to thank you, Lynn, for putting your thoughts, experiences on paper. I find myself (a mother of two young boys) identifying with many of your strips, especially these latest ones. Thank you for making us mothers feel like we are not alone in our frustrations and joys.

Marcy K, Niverville, Manitoba

Take me back to the top!

---

Tuesday, September 30, 2008
September 30, 2008

One of the reasons I read FBorFW, what set it apart from other strips, was the continuing story line. Never knowing what was going to happen next and what direction the characters lives woul go in was always a big attraction. The new format, having moved back in time, takes away this suspense which had me hooked. The continuing story line was one of the ways your strip differentiated itself. You deserve full out retirement, why are you beating around the bush?

Stacey, Michigan

Dear Lynn, thank you for so many wonderful years...I look forward to however many more you can give us!
I discovered FBoFW when my sister gave my mother a copy of one of your first books to her for Mother's Day and I've followed you ever since. First thing I check at work when I fire up my computer is your strip...our here paper doesn't carry you.
So much of the Patterson life I have been able to relate to as have most of your readers but the one I lived myself was the same day as the fire that took Michael and Deanna's home. My home burned down the very day (many years earlier) and it is something that is never forgotten. I lived that week in such a state of anxiety as I knew what was happening and wanted it over with. I can still walk through my home in my mind and see everything that was there and exactly where it was.
Lynn, best of luck with your new (revised) strip. Going back is never easy, but going forward is sometimes not possible.

Valerie S, British Columbia

Fb or Fw has been my favorite strip since it's debeut, for the last few months I couldn't wait to read it each morning, or after 11 on line. I am upset and VERY not happy about the original story line being abandoned. That was it's draw, Happening in real time and growing older with this family. All that's lost now and I do not care for the starting over of the Patterson family. It's lost it's biggest fan! Why not at least give us the original version in Sundays addition?!

Cheryl S, Florida

To Lynn,
Thank you. Every morning I get up too read the paper or after a long night at work and still to this day the first thing that I turn to is For Better or for Worse.
I just hope that you keep this up and never lose that touch.
I now have a small nephew who has started to read and he's reading all of your book's.
Again thank you vary much.

Brian C, Jasper, Alberta

I have enjoyed your strip for a long time! Both in print and online. I loved watching the whole family grow up and an again enjoying that all over. You have made me laugh. You have made me cry. And you have made me think. And for all of that I want to thank you. Keep up the wonderful work!!

Velma, Charlotte, NC

Howdy..
I have been a fan since the beginning. Now reading the old/new strips is a hoot!!! I was not sure if I wanted the story to end, but this is great! And I love the newer art. I hope your health improves with the less stress too!!!
Take care.. and hugs from Texas!

Micki D, Caldwell, TX

I have read this wonderful strip for over 20 years. Over the last couple of years, the first thing I would check on the internet was your site. Since the "end" of the well-drawn, well-thought out strip you once brought to us, this is the first time I have been back. Needless, to say, I cringed a bit when I saw that the strip looks like something I would draw (and, trust me, I am no artist). You have turned a magical group of people, with whom I grew up, into an amaturish, dull, poorly drawn disappointment. Rather than ruin our memories, how about just stopping the strip? I will miss my extended Patterson family. I wish you had just had more respect for these characters than this...

AB, Los Angeles

Lynn,

I have been a fan since I was a small girl-the early 80s! My mom and I would always read the Sunday comics together and although I am a little older than both Michael and Elizabeth, I always felt a kindred relationship with them (I too became a teacher).

I have read each and every one of the strips as an adult, going back to see what I missed and forgot about. Ironically, I now identify with Elly, as a young married woman and a new mom. I am thrilled that you have returned to the beginning story so that new generations can become close to your characters. You have a gift not only for drawing, but for telling an intricate story with compassion and humor of one seemingly-real family.

Thank you so much.

Stephanie S, Sterling, Virginia

Indianapolis's paper dropped FBOFW after ELizabeth's & Anthony's wedding. I visit the website to read the strips but like many others I just don't enjoy it as much. I don't look forward to having Farley die or Ellie's mom die. I don't look forward to all the drama between Elizabeth & Anthony before they get back together. (I'm so glad they ended up getting married. Wish you could continue the saga the way it was but you have to do what you have to do. I just don't care for it. Sorry.

Barbara P, Speedway, IN

I loved the story lines the old strip had and always felt that it was my "must read" for every day! Now that the strip has changed, I feel it is just like all the others on the page and I only read it when I think about it.

Julie, Northwest Arkansas

I agree with Theresa from Maine on your new format I do not like it as well. I do not look forward to reading it as much as I used to. I liked the storieis of the kids and the parents progressing through life. i always looked forward to what will happen next. Now we do dnot have the element of suprise like we once did.

Nancy R, Idaho

I'm fine with the fact that you chose to redo the old strips. Of course I miss the ongoing story, but I know that you've been wanting to do this for a while. The thing I take issue with is the fact that you did nothing to make Elly and John's relationship more current; John is still the one who takes no responsibility for the kids and, judging from today's strip, Elly still feels guilty about asking him to take care of them. She can't have a nice time out with friends without worrying that the house will fall apart without her? Give John equal responsibility in raising the children! I think since you're redoing them thirty years after they originally ran, they deserve some revamping in terms of how we view the two genders today. It still seems a bit antiquated.

Molly W, Philadelphia, PA

As sad as I was to see the comic strip "end", I was pleased that you at least gave us closure on all of the characters. I was especially glad to see that all had a happy ending. Your strip definately had been going toward a more serious vein of human nature, but, was extremely powerful in its many subtle,underlining topics. I learned a great deal about myself and about other people through your strip. I have identifying with 'Elly' since my own "April" was born in 1990. I was so glad to see that I was not the only one who was having 'velcro' days! I have saved many of those strips and put them in her baby book! The pressure you must have been under had to horric! I will miss the strip as it was, but, look forward to re-living the original much in the way that I continue to re-read about Charlie Brown. Thank you so much for using your talent to entertain, enlighten and enrich our lives through the comics.

Kathleen S, Penfield, NY

I can't remember when I first started reading your strip, but I can remember when it started really meaning something to me. When Elly was pregnant with April, I became pregnant with my daughter. All of the trials and tribulations that happened to April I saw happening to my Chelsea. It was so much fun to watch them both grow up. I would have loved to have seen how Elly handled empty nest as that is what I will be facing soon. But things change and we adapt and now I am enjoying the new strips. Unlike others, I am going to continue to keep you on my bookmark toolbar. Thanks for a wonderful ride!

Shelley E, Fair Oaks Ranch, TX

Dear LynnThere have been so many parallels between the Patterson family and mine--learning to drive when my kids were, dealing with pets,aging parents, professional situations, and the ups and down of job searches by both generations...I have used the strip in my classroom ("The world will not stop if you don't learn..., Stanley, it will just pass you by") ("Help is something you just pass on"). This past summer, however, the coincidence was extraordinary, in that my daughter was getting married AND my father was coming to the end of his life. Lynn's words of wisdom and wonderful humor contributed to our family's participation in both of these life-changing events ! Thank you, Lynn, and I look forward to whatever you have in store for us !

Phyllis W, Holden, MA

I have loved your comic strip. I really have to admit that I don't read too many comics, but I always looked for yours.

I was sort of uncanny how the strip followed so many story lines of my real life with my three children growing up and my entire family was represented in some way.

Your wedding of Elizabeth and Anthony came right when my daughter and I were planning her wedding. The strip gave me great laughs when I was under great "wedding" stress. Thanks for all of the years of laughs and tears.

I will enjoy your new strip in the light of my grandchilren. What a delight you are. And..as an artist, I can tell how much you care about your integrity in your art.

Mary K, Alabama

I love today's comic. I can't tell you how many times I've gone out with my "girlfriends" and left the husband in charge of the kids to come back to him being 'overwhelmed' with them. Too funny if you ask me.

Susanne, NC

I've never been a believer that people should live in the past. I think that it's nice to look back, but move forward.

Your reprises of the old strips are like living in the past. I respect that you want to retire. I respect that it's hard to let go of something that has been your daily life for 30 years. What I have a hard time understanding is why you want us to live in the past.

Mannie

Thank you for the many years of reading pleasure - I think Michael was 9 and Lizzie 5 when I began reading. And thank you for carrying the story through Elizabeth's marriage - you've made the Patterson family so real through the years that I'd have been truly saddened had she not been able to marry Anthony! I had doubts about the new format, and no it isn't quite the same. But it's good in its own right, and I for one am truly glad you opted to keep these wonderful people "alive" in a whole new way! Thank you, Lynn

Beth, Rio Linda, CA

I used to read 40+ comics online every day, always saving the best -- FBoFW -- for last. Now, I lack the patience to read more than a few strips (editorial cartoons in Washington Post and 3 or 4 dailies).
I guess I should be glad for Lynn, but I gotta tell you: I miss my Strip Fix. I miss the ongoing saga, the characters and the details, including floor plans! The Pattersons became my neighbors, my friends. They taught my children and grandkids so much more than "Leave It To Beaver" and "Father KNows Best" (taught me). They showed us that it's okay to be different, they modelled success as well as failure. I am sorry to lose the thread of their lives.

kind regards,

Ruth S, San Francisco

like many others, i was very sad to see the patterson's story end. the new stories are ok... but the strip has lots it's "zing." i understand your personal need to start over, take a step back and ease into retirement... but the "modern" storyline is sorely missed. i had a wonderful time growing up with liz... we're the same age, teachers and are both recently married. i find myself wondering each day what challenges she and anthony are encountering in their new roles. perhaps a book that looks into the future would be a wonderful treat for your readers someday!

thanks for the good reads,

Ash, New Hampshire

I have to admit like so many others here I was not pleased to see it all come to an end. I guess you can say I have followed the strip for over 20 years and have even went back and done catch up when I was away for a bit, thank goodness for the internet. It has always been a pleasure to follow all of the people and watch them grow up and leave home. I even cried when Farley died saving April. I just wanted to say thank you for all the wonderful years you have wrote this. I have to admit I am no longer captured as I once was and I guess it is because I know how it all ends. ~sighs~ I miss the Pattersons of today and I guess I always will as this era came to an end. Thank you for the proper ending of letting us know what happened with the family even if it is condensed. I really appreciated that. Good luck with the Strip as it is now and for all you have given to all of us I wish you the very best.

Much Appreciated,

Michael, Kansas at the Moment

I was hesitant when I heard the strip would be going back in time as it has always paralleled my life. What I have found though is that it still parallels my life in a different way. I am no longer close to the same age as Elizabeth but she is now close to the same age as my daughter. I am so excited to see being a Mom through Elly's eyes.

Thank you for the past laughs and the ones yet to come as my little girl grows up along side the same girl I used to grow up with.

Beth D, Denton, TX

Thanks for starting the comic over, Lynn. My brother and I share names with two of the Patterson children. I was a baby when the comic started, so I never got to see this from the beginning. It's so cool to see the Patterson family from the beginning. Looking forward to many funny comics!

Elizabeth V, Lincoln, Nebraska

I"m disappointed that the story has ended. But I understand why. best wishes for a happy semi-retirement?

Jeanne, Little Rock, Arkansas

Thank you for the memories. I continue to have your site bookmarked, I will not take it down. I always start my day with the strip-fix.

I grew up with the Patterson kids (same age as Elizabeth), so I was always able to relate to most of what was going on. Now that I'm older and you're doing your new-runs, I'm relating to Elly as I have a five month old daughter and a six year old son.

I look forward to reading the strips, and am very happy with the decision you made. While I'm sad to see the story come to an end, I'm so happy to see it re-started again.

Thanks for all your hard work and dedication.

CM, Burlington, Ontario

Dear Lynn,thanks for so many wonderful years and I hope the new generation on the block will enjoy the life you have begun again.and experience the joy of the years past~~........with the strip,.I am again catching up,and I love the old ones,thank you~~

I am thinking how selfish I see so many negative comments on the why did you do this to us??So I and I am sure many others wish you well with your retirement,,,,,,,,,,,,,,thanks for the joy of it all and just being you Lynn~~~thank you ,

Nina, Pennsylvania

Love your 'do-over'. At the risk of being impatient, when do we get to meet some of the other characters?

Frank G, Saline, Michigan

I just have to say I've been enjoying all the old/new strips.

I've been reading Lynn's strip for I don't know how long. I remember reading the comics at my Grandma's and getting hooked. Ever since then, I've looked forward to reading the adventures of the Pattersons. Especially now that I have children of my own, heh heh.

Well, I just wanted say thank you! I've so much enjoyed being a part of the Pattersons, if only through a lookie-loo's point of view.

I love the re-vamped Oldies but Goodies, and look forward to reading tomorrow's strip everyday.

Thank you, Lynn! Job well done!

Enjoy your semi-retirement :)

Gina, St. Paul, MN

Oh,my. I find myself homesick and in a quandry over your new scripts. For years now, I would eagerly find your strip in the comic section and look forward to the wonderful and sometimes serious stories you would spin. I enjoyed the laughs and the sophistication of every situation. I was looking forward to the new possibilities of Mike's new family renewing the old days in a new fashion and enjoying those just for laughs goofaws with their children and future pets hopeing for a peak and glimse of the rest of the family at holidays. Nowafter a few weeks of giving your new format a try, I find myself failing adjust to the renewed John and Elly and am just homesick for "my family". Thank you for the wonderful years of laughs and stories. Your the best.

Penny, Southern Illinois

I am a newbie to your strip and enjoyed about one year of the events that ended with the wedding of two kindred spirits, both children married the boy/girl next door, very comforting in this big world. The new strip reminded me of a song Tracy Adkin has popular on the air waves. Your are going to miss this. The child complains about high school, getting married and living in a one bedroom apt and wanting children, having young children Father states, all she complains about, you are going to miss this moment. I have an eighteen year old, a senior in high school and look at her and smile knowing I am going to miss her next year at this time when she leaves and takes the love I wrapped around her. I love turning back the clock. There is nothing I would do different, except stop what I was doing to play with my daughter more :}

Lizzie, McDonough, Georgia

Lynn,

I'm enjoying the new format. I missed years of your strip, and did a lot of back reading through the web site. Catching up with the Patterson's and viewing them all over again through the lense of experience (the difference between reading them as a single woman then, and now as a mother and wife!) well, it's delightful. I respect what you've done, and plan on following the Pattersons for many more years. Bravo to you Lynn!!!

Cyndy, Southern California

To Sheri of Aloha, OR: No, reading the new-run strips is not like re-reading a favorite book. I have done so many times. A better comparison would be if I were *attempting* to re-read an old, favorite book and discovered that the author had torn out pages and even chapters, replacing them with new text that changes major plot points and removes some of my favorite elements. That, at least, is the way *I* experience these new-runs. Naturally, your mileage may vary.

Katje B, Albany, NY

As a 21 year old, I basically grew up with Elizabeth and can relate to her the best. I remember being 5 and opening the comic section of the newspaper first and starting with FBorFW. I still do that. I miss the grown up and matured characters that I know and love so well, but with the re-run of the old strips, I think I can fall in love with them all over again. This time from the very beginning and maybe even a little better. I'll enjoy growing up with Elizabeth again and witnessing April's birth. Mike's university years were a blast that I'll be able to relate to this time around. I'll see young Elly and John in my parents and appreciate them more for the decisions and choices they've made to make it to their golden years.

In addition, I think it's especially wonderful that a whole new generation gets to enjoy FBorFW and to grow up with them also.

Lynn, in a day and age where sad stories tend to leave more of an impact on our daily lives, you've really made a difference by making an impact with a happy one. So thank you. Really.

Supriya G, Ontario

Dear Lynn,

I loved FBorFW in 1979, when I was a new college student with no children. Who cares if I couldn't "relate"? It was funny!

I loved FBorFW in the 80's and 90's, as the Patterson kids grew.

I loved it in '99 when my daughter was born, and on into this decade, even though she's much younger than the Pattersons.

Now, suddenly, even Michael is younger than my daughter. But I still love it!

So when you get these messages from people saying "the Pattersons were the same age as my kids, but I'm middle aged now and I can't relate anymore", don't listen to them! The value of the strip goes beyond the parallel with a person's life, or how caught up they are with the soap opera of the story lines. It's still wonderful!

Terry, Orange Park, FL

I guess you could say I am Elizabeth and Michael's age. I started reading the strip in junior high and "bonded" with them then. Liz and I chose similar careers, married late, have close relationships with a grandfather, and have a blended family. My wedding was even planned around my grandfather's illness. I was *crushed* when I heard the strip would be discontinued. It was like losing Charlie Brown all over again. Then, you started blending old with new, and I enjoyed the look back.

Now, I am loving the restart of the strips. I admit, I was leary. Someone said they were simplistic, but I like it. Not all of life has to be complicated or difficult to be funny, touching, or relevant. I am a stay at home mom, a rare breed now, and find I can relate to the strips. There are different stresses for sahms. My children are spaced about the same as Michael and Liz, and are about the ages portrayed now. How I could relate with the toddler being adored while shopping and the big kid ignored! It is as if you are living in my home.

But, it mostly reminds me that some parts of life are timeless.

Thank you for continuing the strip. And for making it a fun, familiar retreat I eagerly anticipate visiting each day. I look forward to my children growing up with the strip, as I did.

Laura L, Arkansas

I have read FBorFW since it was first published in the Dallas Morning News. I feel like they were my next door neighbors. I do wish you the very best in your new strip but I will not be reading it anymore. It is just not as snappy, not as smart, not as meaningful as it was. I do not relate to these people and just plain got bored. Best of luck to you and the family.

Doug T, Rowlett, Texas

I really have no words to properly thank you for all the years of For Better or For Worse. All the joys and sorrows, ups and downs, from "ugly" diaper stories to weddings and funerals - from Farley to Elly's Mom and her Dad's illnesses. I don't mind that you are going back to the beginning, just please keep it coming. the strips are like a journey down memory lane for me. So much coincided with what was happening in my life at the same time. God Bless You and keep you strong enough to keep my "other family" around for many years to come.

Joyce M, Holt, Michigan

Ah Ha! There, we're already beginning to see it...Slowly, the drawings are getting more detailed, more interesting and having more depth...Yess! I love your artwork, Lynn. Pure delight!

Diane G, Quebec

Lynn, this is fantastic. You know, when Berke Breathed (Bloom County) and Bill Watterson (Calvin and Hobbes) retired, I was really disappointed. And when you wrapped up your strip with Elizabeth's wedding, I felt the same sense of loss.

Anyway, I started reading - or so I thought - your strip from the beginning. When I finally realized what was happening, that you were injecting fresh material and a simpler visual format, with the possibility of different things happening to the Pattersons, I was truly stunned. And delighted.

You've given us back FBorFW, and only semi-retired instead of quit. Thanks a million, Lynn.

Dale G, Albuquerque, New Mexico

Take me back to the top!

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