Arlo and Janis by Jimmy Johnson for February 04, 2014

I know the feeling (about pre 2008). We couldn’t hardly keep up with the work we had. Then…2008. As pops says in the comic, it is coming back. I think more accurately though, at least in my case, it came back to a point, and then just leveled off. Not sure if it will be that good again, at least not before I retire.

No reason why not, since it seems that he has a new generation to pass it all on to, if they really want it.

As the middle class wanes, so too their business outlook.

He is selling out? (as opposed to the business)

panel 3 is very representative…it’s the sun setting on a long, full life. he’s entering his twilight years…

Will Arlo buy it? Start a new life?

Will Gene cash in or the gravy train stop

If he’s concerned about his daughter being overworked and stressed out, I don’t think he’s suggesting that she and Gene should buy the business. That would multiply her stress, not relieve it.

The plot thickens!

OOOO Boy!

Interesting. I am not really thinking of Gene and MaryLou bought or were gifted the business, it would be of much help….. just MORE WORK and MORE STRESS. So, I am not really sure where this may all lead. Arlo and Janis buying the business?!? Somehow, that does not seem like a good fit either. So, I hope that JJ has a surprising and great plan brewing…. and I would hope that it still includes MaryLou’s dad… I like his character.

If this was “Funky Winkerbean,” Pop would have a heart attack and make the decision for Gene.

What are their options? What did Gene get his college degree in?

Hint hint

Sorry folks, but I can tell you from a lifetime of experience that any business that needs the children of the owner to operate, where the children are seconded rather than volunteer, is not viable without the owner’s children. In North America, there are thousands and thousands of these businesses where the owners just scrape by from day to day. It is only the dedication, hope, and stamina of the owners that keep these businesses running, at great sacrifice. And stamina is not an infinite resource.

Gene is going to work on his little farm. Back to the earth.

Wow! Not the turn I expected.

if he sells the business to any one except Gene and MaryLou, that cuts Marylou’s workload at least in half since she would no longer need to work there. Or, sell the farm and buy the business. Either way, workload cut in half. AND, they get most of their money back as an inheritance

“Run, Gene, run. Run away. I never did like that old “man”.”-I do.As best I can tell, he’s always been square with everybody.

If the sun is setting over open water without swells, it finally locates the setting as Tampa Bay. If I knew the area, it would be possible to give the days in spring and fall when the sun would set over the mouth.

But if Gus sold the restaurant and split the proceeds with Mary Lou, that would give the kids a buffer while they get the farm up and running.