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For better or for worse has been a part of my life from its first publication. I have all of the books, and re-read them in order, at first once a year, and now there are so many about every two years.I was very sad to see the strip end as we had become to know it. I love the early strips, but know them by heart. A few of the strips I quote to friends, i.e. kids when does life begin, ellie, I hope it begins at 40 etc.

Roguey, Oregon

I have been a fan for years. It has been a joy to fallow the family, and watched them grow. I have the collection books but one-the last one. I miss the old strip, it just isn't the same. I do read it, but, I don't look foreword to it as much as I use to. I understand why, all good things must come to end, and this came to an end

Steve, NV

I have loved your comic for years, and years. The story line pretty much followed my own life. Now in my 50's, it is fun to read the "new" story line and think back remember when my own son was little. Thank you so much for the Patterson Family!

Helen N, CO

When Elizabeth got married and the last cartoon came out I cried. I loved watching this family grow and live and could relate well with them. I wasn't so sure I was going to like going back to when Mike and Elizabeth were small, but I'M LOVING IT!! The story lines have been fun. Thank you for your creativity and bringing the Patterson family to us!

Karen P, Renton, WA

I think the reason for some of the serious opinions is that there is never been anything caricature-like about the strip. Our Coffee Talk has changed a lot lately with letters past and present from Elly. Also, I think we got so used to the realness of the strip that any possible symbolism (removing the problem) in Elly's kicking the dog out the door is now lost on some of us and comes out in our comments.

Sheila B, East Hartford, CT

I agree with the folks who say "what's up w/Elly saying her college years are meaningless",just because she didn't graduate. 2ndly, you don't always have to go to college to achieve your dreams. I only went for one summer, and right now, I'm working where I love to work, and I'm playing piano where I want to be playing, and getting paid for it. All w/out going to college.

Meg H, ME

I just had to reply to the comments complaining about how Connie wants a "Mrs" attached to her name. I'm also a successful, educated, single woman. I while I know that's what's important, sometimes you do wish you had a life partner. And you are jealous of the people who do. You know you shouldn't, but you do... And the great thing about this strip is that it isn't about perfect role models - it's about real people. And I can relate to how Connie feels, as a real person.

CJ, South Africa

"A Woman without a Man is like a Fish without a Bicycle." We used to hand-print that on our Tie-Dyed Tee Shirts, feeling pretty darn pleased with ourselves.... Years later, in the "Personals" sectio of the Paper I came across this gem: "Mature Haddock seeking to rendezvous with Aquatic Schwinn, -- strictly for the Halibut."

Anna M, Winnipeg, MB

So Connie has an issue about being alone. HEY PEOPLE!!! we all do at times. Connie and Ellie are in their late 20's early 30's in this strip. Right now they represent both ends of the spectrum for women, stay a home mom and working single mom. Connie is bound to get lonely and Elly is going to wonder what she would have done if she completed her degree. And there is nothing wrong with that. Lynn is showing that Connie wasn't always the feminist she was at the end of the strip, and even if she was, doesn't mean she doesn't get lonely. And Elly is being shown as not always having the confidence she will have in later years. It's called growth, we all grow as we gain age and experience.

Theresa V, OH