Ep 20. The Last Straw

The Waltons season 8 episode 20, "The Last Straw," depicts the continuing struggles of the Walton family during the Great Depression. As the episode begins, tensions are running high between Olivia and John over money. Olivia wants to splurge on a new dress for an upcoming event, but John worries about the family's financial stability. Meanwhile, the family is also dealing with the aftermath of a devastating fire that destroyed their barn and killed a number of their livestock.

As the episode progresses, the tensions between Olivia and John escalate, with Olivia feeling increasingly overlooked and unappreciated. To make matters worse, John takes on a second job delivering goods in order to make ends meet, leaving her feeling even more isolated from him and their children. The final straw comes when Olivia discovers that John has sold one of their beloved horses without consulting her, leading her to lose all trust in him.

Throughout the episode, the rest of the Walton family is also facing their own challenges. Jason is struggling with his music career, Sarah is grappling with her own insecurities, and Elizabeth is on the brink of adolescence. Despite these difficulties, the family pulls together to support each other and stay strong in the face of adversity.

Overall, "The Last Straw" is a poignant episode that explores the struggles and triumphs of a family during a difficult period in American history. With its heartfelt performances and engaging storylines, it is sure to resonate with viewers of all ages and backgrounds.