The local iceman's son is appointed clergyman for the church. The parishioners find his personality unpleasant and decide to stay away. Mama steps in and gives the young man valuable advice.
Dagmar is dreading an upcoming math test. Rather than study she tries to figure out how to avoid it. Dagmar learns a classmate has chicken pox and visits their house hoping to catch the illness.
Mama and Aunt Jenny decide to try their hand at matchmaking when eligible bachelor Gunnar needs assistance. They think sister Trina would make a wonderful spouse for the single man.
Nels meets a young lady who he believes to be a music lover. Nels intends to learn the mandolin to impress her but playing an instrument is more difficult than anticipated.
One of Katrin's friends has a fight with her boyfriend, ending the relationship. Katrin decides to help the couple patch things but she only complicates matters. Mama offers her oldest daughter assistance.
Mama unexpectedly finds herself voted into office at the parent's association at school. Mama soon find out the job's downside as unhappy teachers and irritable parents expect her to fix things.
After years of wanting to attend Mama and Papa buy expensive tickets to Peer Gynt. But on the day of the performance Katrin starts getting sick. Despite her disappointment Mama knows the right choice to make.
Katrin is impressed by a wealthier classmate of her brother's. This lead to her being embarrassed by the Hansen's working class background but a lesson in humility is in store for Katrin.
Nels get a Christmas job selling toys but the mechanics of the devices are beyond his adult knowledge. Nels enlists the help of a neighborhood boy to help him out.
Aunt Jenny notices sister Trina doesn't have an engagement ring from fiance Gunnar. When it comes time for the holiday portrait Jenny is clear. No Gunnar in the picture until a ring is produced.
Dagmar finds out about a drawing competition and desperately wants to win. Dagmar enters someone else's illustration to better her chances. Mama must gently explain why the little girl erred.
Katrin learns one of her classmates has gotten engaged and is envious of the attention the young lady is getting. Katrin tries to force a proposal from her boyfriend but Mama urges her daughter to slow down.
Dagmar's school class has an assignment of getting a pen pal from a different area. Dagmar draws a Montana Indian named Charlie Red Cloud and is excited about the details of his life.
Nels has a prom date but has encountered financial difficulties. It's up to Mama and the rest of the family to ensure the young couple have a special evening.
Trina and Gunnar have a disagreement with Trina moving in with her sister's family. The Hansens are stoic with the unhappy person in their midst but the the complaints mount. Mama tries to bring the couple back together.