Mi Familia, Part II
Original air date: May 23, 2005

What's the message: Wherever you have family, you have a home.

What's up with the Davis children? The social worker (Greta) believes the Davis children's mother will object to George and Gwen (Cecilia's parents) becoming the children's foster parents. Greta and Eric meet with a judge to plot how they will get the the mother to allow the kids to be adopted. The judge says once in court, she'll heavily consider the wishes of the kids. Eric and Greta meet with the Davis children and tell them they will have to go before the court and tell the judge, in front of their mother, that their lives have been hell and they want to be adopted. The Davis children say they refuse to do that.

What's up with Lucy and Kevin? Kevin accuses Lucy of not wanting to move again -- especially when Lucy refuses to look at houses on a Sunday.

What's up with Ruthie and Martin? Ruthie still thinks Martin wants to be romantically involved with her. Martin confronts Vincent again and tells him he must tell Ruthie the truth -- he wants to break up with her so he can date other girls while he's in Hawaii over the summer.

What's up with Simon? He brings his new girlfriend, Rose, home to meet his family. Rose is condescending and rude and Annie doesn't like her. Kevin talks to Simon about why he and Rose are really home to visit. Simon assures Kevin that he and Rose are not that serious yet - but Kevin convinces him that Rose must think differently. Simon has a discussion with Rose, and learns that Rose did indeed think that they were going to get married. Simon says he doesn't think they are ready.

What's up with Annie and Eric? Annie tries calling Matt after discovering Mary and Carlos' phone has been disconnected. When no one calls her back, she tries to get Eric to tell her what's really going on with Mary and Carlos. Eric is set to tell Annie that Mary and Carlos have filed for divorce and Carlos has taken their baby to live in Puerto Rico. However, Annie misinterprets it when Eric tells her Mary has moved to Chicago - she thinks that means Carlos has moved there too, and that they are reconciling. Eric doesn't correct her misperception.

How it all ends up: The Davis children tell Eric and Greta that they can't go before the court and their mother to ask to be adopted because they don't want their mother to lose hope and turn to drugs again. George and Gwen agree to take things slow and begin with agreeing to be foster parents. They won't worry about the adoption part just yet.

Lucy goes out on her own, on a Sunday, to look at houses. She announces to Kevin that she's put an offer on the broken-down house behind the Camdens' house. Kevin is thrilled.

After Vincent fails to break up with Ruthie, Martin finally tells Ruthie what Vincent was up to -- wanting to get Ruthie to break up with him so that he didn't have to hurt her again. Ruthie is embarrassed and hurt. She tells Vincent to never call her again. Then she apologizes to Martin for accusing him of wanting her romantically. Martin and Ruthie hug, but it turns kind of awkward.

After Simon and Rose talk, Rose officially proposes to Simon. He and Rose tell Eric and Annie that they will be getting married -- in the future.

Eric admits to Annie that he lied to her. Annie is very upset.

All the Camdens and Martin go to the airport to great Martin's father who is finally coming home after two tours of duty in Iraq. Martin tells his dad that the Camdens are now part of their family.

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Mi Familia, Part I
Original air date: May 15, 2005

What is the message: It takes all kinds of arrangements to make a family work.

What's up with Martin: He's moving out -- he's going across the street to live with his dad who is coming home from Iraq. Ruthie tells him she'll miss him, and he says he'll miss her too. Later, Vincent asks Martin to get Ruthie to break up with him. Vincent is going to Hawaii for the summer and thinks he might meet another girl. He doesn't want to break up with Ruthie again because he doesn't want to hurt her. Martin agrees to get Ruthie to break up with Vincent - only because he wants to help Ruthie.

What's up with Ruthie: Martin tries to convince her to break up with Vincent, telling her he thinks she could do better. Ruthie meets with Vincent to talk about breaking up.

What's up with Matt: Carlos tells Matt that he and Mary are officially filing for divorce. To make matters more complicated, Mary has relinquished her custody of their baby, Charles, to Carlos. Carlos is planning to move to Puerto Rico with Charlie and he wants Matt to break the news to Eric and Annie.

What's up with Eric: He runs into Cecilia's father, George. George says he and his wife Gwen have just finished a program to become certified foster parents. They feel their house has been empty since Cecilia went away to college, and they are looking to take in a foster child with the hopes of eventually adopting. Eric says he knows of a boy that needs a foster home and introduces George to Danny Davis.

What's up with Simon: He has a new girlfriend, Rose. He has a hard time explaining to Rose why he won't have sex with her. She's very confused -- based on Simon's reputation she didn't think he'd play this hard to get.

What's up with Lucy: She delays calling the real estate agent to look for a new house. Kevin gets irritated with her, as does Annie. Annie tells Lucy that it's important for her marriage that she and Kevin have their privacy.

How it all ends up: Ruthie misinterprets Martin's intentions to get her to break up with Vincent. She tells Vincent she thinks Martin wants to date her.

George meets with Danny. Danny is eager to move in with George and asks George when his sisters will be moving in too. George tells Eric he's not ready to take in Danny and his three sisters and asks Eric to help him break the news to Danny. But when they all meet at the church, George changes his mind and agrees to take in all the Davis children. However, when Eric gets home, he learns from Annie that family services has called - the Davis children's mother has a problem with the kids going to another foster home.

Matt finally works up the nerve to tell Eric about Mary and Carlos. Eric now has to tell Annie.

Simon eventually tells Rose about his promise to God that he wouldn't have pre-marital sex anymore. He also tells Rose about his siblings and how they all waited to be married before having sex. He says he'd like to follow their example. Rose and Simon discuss marriage, and Rose asks Simon if he'd marry her.

TO BE CONTINUED….

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Leaps of Faith
Original air date: May 8, 2005

What's the message: With every risk you take, you have to be careful to weigh the potential consequences. But keep in mind, without risk, there are no rewards.

What's up with Simon? He comes home for the weekend to await the results of his recent test results for sexually transmitted diseases. While he waits for the phone call with the results, he makes a pact with God. He promises God that if his test comes back negative, he will not have sex again until marriage and he will try to be a better Christian.

What's up with Lucy and Kevin? Lucy discusses going back to work. Kevin tells her that she needs to decide when she is ready. Lucy wants Annie to baby-sit for Savannah while she works, but Kevin forbids it: He doesn't want to burden Annie. Kevin suggests he work nights and take care of the baby while Lucy works during the day. Lucy doubts Kevin can take care of the baby by himself.

What's up with Eric? He counsels Lynn, the mother of two daughters afflicted with sickle cell anemia. Lynn's estranged husband Russell wants the two girls to move to Memphis with him. Lynn asks Eric to meet with Russell to find out why.

What's up with Ruthie? Paris, Vic and Pete show up at the Camdens. Paris is pregnant and she and Vic want to get remarried before the baby is born. Ruthie calls Vincent and complains about Pete's not calling her for a year. Pete told her he didn't have any feelings for her anymore. Vincent is annoyed that Ruthie is talking about her ex-boyfriend and accuses her of still having feelings for Pete. Ruthie calls Pete and asks him if he has a girlfriend. Pete says he does.

What's up with Martin? He sneaks out for a late study date with Zoe. He doesn't tell Eric and Annie that he's going out. He leaves his cell phone behind. Eric comes over looking for him and finds out from Simon that Martin is out on a school assignment (he is - viewing a meteor shower). Martin's phone keeps ringing and Eric finally picks it up. It's Martin's dad. He won't tell Eric why he's calling. The next day, Martin learns his father has called and is mad at himself for sneaking out and missing the call.

How does it all wrap up? Simon gets his test results: He does not have an STD. He immediately becomes religious. He heads back to campus wearing a large, silver cross necklace and vowing to Eric that he has changed his life.

Lucy asks Annie if she'd watch Savannah while she went back to work. Annie laughed at her and told her no, she didn't want to take care of her beautiful baby granddaughter. Kevin spends his day off taking care of the baby all by himself to prove to Lucy that he can. Lucy has to admit, Kevin did a good job.

Eric finds out Russell wants his daughters to come with him to Memphis because St. Jude's children's hospital is there. St. Jude's has a special program that has successfully treated children with sickle cell. Russell explains why he left Lynn and his daughters in the first place: He watched his mother lose her long and painful struggle with sickle cell. He said he left because he couldn't face watching his daughters go through the same thing. But, since he discovered St. Jude's program, he feels there is hope for his girls.

Everyone is ready for Vic and Paris' wedding. Ruthie says it's too bad Pete's girlfriend couldn't come. Vic says to Pete, "you don't have a girlfriend." Vincent comes over and Ruthie introduces him to Pete and Vic. Lynn and Russell stop by to talk to Eric and see that they already have a house full of people, but they stay for the wedding, too.

During the ceremony, Martin's cell phone rings. After the wedding is finished, Martin announces that his dad is coming home.

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Hungry
Original air date: May 2, 2005

What's the message? Sometimes the best way to get over a hunger is to admit you are hungry and ask for help if you need it.

What's up with Ruthie? She runs into Vincent and his new girlfriend, Margo, at school. Margo humiliates Ruthie in front of Vincent by pointing out that Ruthie is wearing a jacket from a second-hand store. Margo knows this because it was her jacket. Ruthie races to the bathroom in tears and finds Martin's girlfriend, Zoe, passed out on the floor. She and Ruthie talk. Later back at home, Ruthie throws out the jacket.

What's up with Martin? He goes on a date with Zoe, who acts materialistic - begging Martin to take her to a more expensive restaurant. Martin explains he doesn't have the money to do that. Later, Martin tells Ruthie he wants to break up with Zoe because she thinks she's too good for him. Ruthie tries to stop him - telling him that Zoe may be acting superior because she really feels inferior. But Martin doesn't listen to Ruthie and breaks it off with Zoe.

What's up with Kevin? He's hungry to be "intimate" again with Lucy. However, Lucy is ignoring his signals. In fact, she's annoying Kevin by talking baby talk to him. Kevin tries to approach Eric for advice. But, Eric seems to know what Kevin wants to talk about and avoids a discussion.

What's up with Sam and David? David is sick and Annie is waiting on him - giving him pudding and Jell-o. Sam becomes jealous. They argue and Sam threatens to tell Annie that David is faking sick so he can get extra pudding. David tells Sam that he can pretend to be sick after David is done pretending.

How it all ends up: Vincent repeatedly calls Ruthie and apologizes for Margo's behavior. He tells Ruthie he's broken up with Margo. Ruthie and Vincent agree to date once Ruthie is off restriction. Ruthie is determined to prove that she's strong enough to face Margo at school. She retrieves the jacket from the garbage and wears it to school. Margo sees Ruthie at school and apologizes. She explains to Ruthie that her mom bought her the jacket. Her mom died of cancer last year and the seeing Ruthie wear the jacket made her upset. Margo also says since her mother's death her dad has lost his job and they are having trouble making ends meet. Ruthie tells Margo to ask Rev. Camden for help. She also returns the jacket to Margo.

Eric and Annie realize the twins have been faking sick. Eric says because there's a new baby in the house, the twins are jealous and looking for attention. He says it's time to kick the Kinkirks out.

Lucy admits to Kevin she knows she's been neglecting him. They agree to look at housing listings - it's time to move out of the Camden house.

Zoe's dad, Allen, visits Eric. Allen thinks Ruthie told Martin their family secret and that's why Martin broke up with her. Allen says the family is poor and can't even afford food. Eric assures Allen that Ruthie didn't tell anyone Zoe's family secret. Eric convinces Allen that there is no shame in asking for help and using the food stamp program. Eventually, Allen agrees.

At the end of the episode, several teens tell their stories about hunger. Eric tells Ruthie that 9.5 million people in the U.S. will go to bed at night worried about how they will feed their families.

For more information about the food stamp program, visit www.fns.usda.gov/fsp.

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Honor Thy Mother
Original air date: April 25, 2005

What's the message: Mothering is a skill passed down from mother to daughter.

What's up with Annie: She plans a special dinner in honor of her mother who would have been 75 years old. When Ruthie tells her she's going to go out on a second date in two days with Vincent, Annie tells her she can't go. The family dinner in honor of her mother is too important.

What's up with Ruthie: She figures out a way to defy her mother and see Vincent. She goes with Lucy to the Promenade, pretends to "run into" Vincent, and then tells Lucy she's going to go to the bookstore with Vincent, who will then drive her home. Lucy tries to warn Ruthie to call Annie to let her know her plans or else she may have her dating privileges taken away. Ruthie meets Vincent and their date seems to be going fine - until he breaks up with her.

What's up with Eric: A woman, Maria (guest star Melissa Gilbert), asks him for help in convincing her aging mother to move into a nursing home. Eric meets Maria's mother and learns that she is perfectly capable of living on her own. Eric finds himself in the middle of an argument between the daughter and mother.

What's up with Kevin: His brother Ben calls, insisting on meeting Savannah for the first time. Kevin tries to stall him by telling him it wouldn't be right for him to meet the baby before the baby's own grandmother has met her. But it's too late -- Ben is already in Glenoak and on his way over.

What's up with Ben: He's really in town to pump Kevin and the Camdens for information about Mary.

How it all ends up: Annie finds out Ruthie went out with Vincent. She is angry and very disappointed in Ruthie. But she tells Eric that she learned how to be a good mother from her mother and she knows how to deal with Ruthie.

Meanwhile, Ruthie is devastated by Vincent breaking up with her. She runs into Kevin and Ben who happen to be at the Promenade and begs Kevin to take her home. They go home, but Ruthie won't get out of the car. Ben tries to console her. Lucy comes out to try to give her advice. Ruthie still won't go in the house. Finally, Annie comes out to the car. Ruthie tells her she's so sorry she chose a boy over her mom and her family. Annie consoles Ruthie by telling her that all boys seem to eventually come back around. She also bans Ruthie from dating for a month.

Eric gets a call that Maria's mother is in the emergency room - and perhaps had a heart attack. Turns out the mom only had an ulcer - partially brought on by her over-protective daughter. With Eric's help, Maria and her mom work it out.

Kevin's mother calls. She lets it spill that Ben is chasing after Mary. Ben admits it to Lucy: Mary called him after she left Carlos. Lucy says it's a bad idea for Ben to pursue Mary. Lucy says she believes Mary learned from Annie how to be a wife and mother and that she will return to Carlos. She also tells Ben they need to find him someone.

The family all have dinner in honor of Annie's mother. Everyone toasts Annie - including Ruthie who raises her glass and says "to mothers and daughters."

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Tangled Web We Weaved
Original air date: February 28, 2005

What's the message: No matter how tangled the web of lies you weave is, the simple truth is the best way out.

What's up with Simon: He is sharing breakfast with another new girlfriend. They get interrupted by a phone call that Simon lets the answering machine pick up: It's Ruthie begging Simon to call her so they can figure out how to resolve the lie they all told Eric and Annie about Mary. Simon explains the lie situation to his girlfriend. The new girlfriend takes the opportunity to tell him she understands why people tell lies in difficult situations. And, she tells Simon she has a confession to make. Later, Simon calls Matt, leaving him a message saying he needs to talk to him right away because he's in trouble.

What's up with Annie: She talks to Carlos and tries to get him to admit he and Mary are expecting. When Carlos doesn't divulge anything (including the truth that Mary is taking a break from their marriage), Annie decides she's going to go to New York to visit Carlos, Mary and baby Charlie.

What's up with Ruthie: It's Saturday night and Martin asks her to hang out with him and Mack. She declines, telling him that she wants to stay home to hang out with the twins. He doesn't believe her, so she tells him that she really wants to stay home because a family crisis is brewing. She relates the Mary lie to Martin. She also says that she just wants to stay home and play a game with the twins. But, even the twins don't believe her.

What's up with Eric: Matt calls to ask if he's left his phone there. Eric does have Matt's phone and offers to retrieve his messages. Eric hears the desperate message from Simon. He tells Matt to call Simon. But Simon's message alarms Eric and he decides to drive up to campus to see him.

What's up with Kevin: When Simon can't get a hold of Matt he calls Kevin and tells him that he may have contracted a sexually transmitted disease from his recent girlfriend. Kevin decides to take on more of the Camden family problems and leaves a message for Mary about the lie the other Camden kids told for her. He begs her to call him.

What's up with Martin: He and Mack argue over Ruthie. Both of them accuse each other of being interested in dating Ruthie. Both of them claim they feel like Ruthie is a sister to them. They run into Vincent, who is on a date with another girl. Vincent tells them that he asked another girl out because Ruthie didn't want to go out with him and had been acting strange all week long. Martin tells Vincent about the Camden family crisis.

How it all ends up: Vincent visits Ruthie at home and tells her he knows about her family crisis. He also tells her that he was on a date with another girl. Ruthie respects him for telling her the truth. Martin and Mack come over to visit Ruthie. Vincent comes back and accuses Martin and Mack both of being romantically interested in Ruthie. Ruthie says, "I know."

Eric visits Simon. Eric knows Simon is in some sort of trouble, so Simon says the trouble is the lie he told about Mary. Eric calls Annie and asks her to organize a late-night waffle-eating family meeting.

At the family meeting, the lie comes out. Annie decides not to go to New York, but she and Eric are faced with what they should say to Carlos. They are not even sure if Carlos knows Mary has left him, or is about to leave him.

Matt calls Simon and Simon tells him his dilemma. Simon has had "safe sex" with a condom, so Matt tells him chances are good he didn't get an STD. He'll find out Monday. Simon also tells Matt that Eric visited him and that he told the truth about the Mary lie. Matt yells at Simon for not telling Eric the truth about his own problem. The next morning, before Eric heads down to deliver his sermon, Simon calls him and says he wants to talk.

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Brotherly Love
Original air date: February 21, 2005

What is the message: Premarital sex is wrong - and so is lying about it.

What's up with Simon: He comes home for a visit because he knows Matt is coming home too. He asks Matt to prescribe birth control pills for his new girlfriend, Anna.

What's up with Matt: He can't write Anna a prescription, and even if he could, he tells Simon he wouldn't. He tells Simon he's nuts for having premarital sex again - especially after the pregnancy "scare" with Georgia. Simon accuses Matt of getting married too young just so he could have sex. Matt and Simon argue and wrestle on the couch.

What's up with Kevin: He stops Matt and Simon by pulling a gun on them - he thought they were burglars. Eric sees him with the gun and insists that Kevin remove the gun from the house. Kevin would keep the gun at his own house - if he had a house that is: He sold it back to the original owners. Now he and Lucy must break the news to Annie and Eric that they are not moving out.

What's up with Ruthie: She spends four hours on the phone talking to Vincent. Later, she talks to Lucy and Annie about being in love. Ruthie assures Annie that she doesn't plan on having a "physical relationship" with Vincent. Annie encourages Ruthie to remain a virgin until marriage. Ruthie asks Lucy if she married Kevin before finishing school just so she could have sex. Lucy says it doesn't matter what her answer is - it's not OK to have sex before marriage.

What's up with Eric & Annie: They both suspect something is up with Simon's coming home to see Matt. They both try to figure out what is going on.

What's up with Martin: He asks Simon for advice about premarital sex. Initially, Simon says having premarital sex is just realistic. Martin asks how Simon can have premarital sex and not feel guilty. He reminds Simon that those girls are someone's daughter or sister, and asks Simon how he would feel if Ruthie was having premarital sex.

What's up with Sam & David: They think they hear a conversation between Eric and Annie about Simon having a baby. They tell Ruthie who tells Kevin and Lucy - and Eric overhears that conversation. Soon, everyone thinks Simon's girlfriend is pregnant.

How it all ends up: Eric also hears Kevin, Lucy and Ruthie talking about breaking their bad news - and hears that they are going to wait to break it until Mary breaks her bad news. Eric is now totally confused.

Simon talks to Ruthie. He tells her that he has concluded that it was a mistake to have premarital sex. He says it's easy to fall into having sex, but it's difficult to get out. He tells Ruthie that he doesn't want her to make the same mistake he made.
Eric and Annie call a family meeting with Simon, Matt, Ruthie, Kevin and Lucy. Eric asks Simon if he's having a baby. Simon says not now - but admits that Georgia had faked pregnancy to get him to marry him around Thanksgiving time.

Kevin and Lucy break their news, and Eric and Annie aren't too upset. However, they do want Kevin and Lucy to move out - soon. Now it's time for Mary's bad news. All the Camden kids seem to know the news and Eric asks them what it is. Simon immediately says Mary and Carlos are having a second baby. Lucy, Ruthie, Matt and Kevin all back up the lie. Eric buys it - and says it's not really bad news. After Eric leaves the room, Ruthie says it's just like old times again - all the siblings lying for Mary.[Back to top]

Red Socks: The Musical Episode
Original air date: February 14, 2005

What's the message: Sometimes you need to get creative to find romance.

What's up with Eric: He tosses a load of whites in the laundry and plans to surprise Annie with breakfast in bed for Valentine's Day - enlisting the help of the twins (who are celebrating their birthday). Eric and the twins launch into a song "Love Is Sweeping the Country." Annie, Kevin and Ruthie chime in.

What's up with Ruthie: She claims she's not in the mood for Valentine's Day. At school, she sees couples kissing and being romantic all around her. She tells Martin that Vincent (her new boyfriend) hasn't called her in three days. She launches into the song: "Nice Work If You Can Get It."

What's up with Annie: Eric and the twins leave a big mess in the kitchen. Additionally, Eric has washed the white clothes with his pair of red socks - turning all the whites pink. Annie calls the red socks Eric's favorite. But, Eric says they are not his favorite - he just wears them because she gives them to him every Valentine's Day. She insists that he loves red socks because that what he was wearing when they first met. They argue a bit and then he rushes off to work - promising Annie he'll pick up a romantic picnic dinner from the French bakery.

What's up with Simon: He has a new girlfriend, Anna. They've known each other for only one day, but Simon tells her he thinks she's the one. Anna's excited about the relationship too - so excited that she wants to go to Glenoak immediately to see where Simon grew up and meet his family. Simon tells her it's too early to meet his family, but they agree to spend the day in Glenoak.

What's up with Lucy & Kevin: Lucy is mad at Kevin because he is going back to work on Valentine's Day. Kevin responds by singing (way off key) "You Were Meant For Me."

How Valentine's Day turns out for everyone:
Eric calls Annie and leaves a message apologizing for leaving the mess and ruining the laundry - and for not remembering about the red socks. He then sings to her picture, "You Are My Lucky Star." He goes to pick up the romantic dinner, but the bakery is closed.

Simon and Anna are in Glenoak kissing in front of a bookstore when Annie spots them. She waits until Simon goes into the bookstore, then she approaches Anna and introduces herself. She warns Anna to be careful because Simon has been dating a lot of different girls lately. Annie breaks out into the song "Have You Talked to the Man Upstairs?" When Simon comes back, Anna asks him about all his girlfriends. She becomes skeptical of him and wants to go back to campus.

Vincent runs into Ruthie at school and she tells him she's mad at him for not calling. He tells her he's mad at her for not calling him. Later, Vincent catches up with Ruthie who is watching baseball practice. Vincent sings "Accentuate the Positive" to Ruthie.

Kevin goes to work and the chief tells him he should try to get Lucy a gift for Valentine's Day - after all it is the anniversary of their getting engaged. Kevin tries to get flowers sent to Lucy, but every florist in town is out of flowers. Meanwhile, Lucy feels bad about her quarrel with Kevin and messes up the kitchen more by making cupcakes for him.

At the end of the night Vincent brings flowers he cut from his mother's garden to Ruthie. Kevin comes home and offers Ruthie $100 for the flowers - which she immediately accepts. Kevin gives the flowers to Lucy - Lucy gives Kevin the cupcakes, and both are happy.

Annie and Eric have the backyard candlelit picnic of peanut butter and jelly sandwiches. Annie gives Eric a gift -- another pair of red socks. She said that on their first date she wasn't sure if she liked him because she knew he was a seminary student and she thought he was too straight for her. But then he crossed his legs and she saw that he was wearing red socks: That's how she knew he was right for her.

Everyone sings "Love Is Sweeping the Country" again.[Back to top]

First Date

Original air date: February 7, 2005

What's the message: All girls must grow up - including Ruthie.

What's up with Ruthie: She finally gets Vincent to ask her out on a real date for a movie and pizza. She insists on paying for half of the date. And, since Vincent's parents won't let him drive at night yet, Ruthie offers to find someone in her family to drive them to their date. Ruthie makes a case to her parents to allow her to go on her first date.

How everyone reacts to Ruthie's first date:

Eric & Annie: They have typical parent reactions - they don't like the fact that their daughter has grown up. But, they both admit that they like Vincent and, his parents have been going to their church. Eric and Annie reluctantly agree to let Ruthie go on the date.

Matt: Matt is back in town for some extra medical training. He gets Ruthie to agree to let him drive her and Vincent on their date.

Kevin: Kevin wants to talk to Ruthie about sex, and they have one very awkward conversation about it.

Lucy: Ruthie's date brings up the subject of Annie's expectations for her daughters. Lucy learns that Annie thinks Ruthie is going to be the daughter who has a career before rushing into marriage. Lucy defends her young marriage to Kevin and reminds Annie that she, too, married young. Later, Lucy and Annie both try to convince Ruthie to change her outfit for the date.

Martin and Max: Max wants to tag along on Ruthie's date. He admits to Martin that he's protective of Ruthie - but that he may want to date her in the future. Martin appears to be jealous - but says he really cares for Ruthie like a little sister.

The twins: They both insist on going on the date with Ruthie and Vincent. The get dressed in their best suits and wait for Vincent to arrive.

Everyone warns Ruthie not to make out with Vincent. Ruthie tells them all that she's already kissed him and plans to again if she feels like it.

What happens on the date: Matt goes to pick Vincent up, but no one is home. Matt believes Ruthie is about to be stood up. He calls Eric to break the news. Eric tells the whole family, except for Ruthie, that Ruthie is about to be stood up on her first date. Matt then calls Ruthie and tells her a lie about Vincent's father having to be rushed to the hospital with pains in his side.

Moments later, Vincent calls Ruthie to tell her that he's running late because he has been at the insurance company making sure that he has auto insurance coverage: His parents agreed to let him drive himself and Ruthie on their date.

Ruthie finds out that the whole family thinks she's about to be stood up. Ruthie tells them she's going to go downstairs and wait on the couch for weeks until Vincent shows up. He does show up and the whole family watches as she goes off on the date. However, all the guys take off to follow her to spy on them.

Vincent and Ruthie kiss during the movie and they are showered by popcorn - Matt, Kevin, Eric, Martin, Max and the twins are several rows behind. They get kicked out of the theater, and Ruthie and Vincent are left to enjoy their date.

Ruthie comes home and says goodnight to Eric and Annie. Eric asks if she had a good time and Ruthie says, "I got through it." Annie tells Eric that means she had a good time but doesn't want to admit it. Ruthie goes to her room and plays the song "Kiss Me" while she dances around and chats on the phone. [Back to top]

The Fine Art of Parenting

Original air date: January 31, 2005

What's the message: It's never too early, or too late, to begin parenting.

What's up with Kevin: He's overprotective of baby Savannah, insisting on watching her while she sleeps. He begins to think that they are relying on Annie's help too much and asks Lucy to go look at the house and start making plans to move out of the Camdens'.

What's up with Lucy: She tells Kevin she doesn't want to move for a couple of months. When friends and neighbors drop by to see the baby, she welcomes everyone. She and Kevin argue about parenting and when it's time to move out.

What's up with Martin: His new girlfriend Zoe accidentally falls asleep on the couch at Martin's apartment. Ruthie sees her leaving.

What's up with Ruthie: She blackmails Martin - telling him that if he helps her get a date with a guy she's interested in, Vincent, then she won't tell Eric and Annie that Martin's girlfriend spent the night in the apartment. Martin talks to Vincent.

What's up with Vincent: When Martin asks Vincent if he'd like to ask Ruthie out. Vincent thinks Martin is part of his parent's plan to get him to go to meet Eric (through Ruthie) and then go to church. Vincent calls Eric and asks if he can come over to talk.

What's up with Eric & Annie: Eric thinks Kevin, Lucy and Savannah should move out soon and learn to be a family on their own. Annie thinks they should never move out.

How it all ends up: Vincent's parents visit Eric also. Eric learns that they are lost when it comes to parenting Vincent. They all used to live with Vincent's grandparents - who helped out a lot. Since the grandparents retired to Hawaii, Vincent's parents don't know how to parent. Eric encourages them all to go to church to help. They agree. Ruthie and Vincent talk and she asks him out. He kisses her. Later, Eric tells Ruthie she can't date Vincent - yet.

Martin learns that Zoe fell asleep on the apartment couch on purpose: She wanted everyone to think she slept with Martin so that she'd be more popular. Martin tells her he never wants to see her again. He tells Eric what happened. Eric tells him he can't entertain women in the apartment anymore.

Kevin and Lucy apologize to each other for their argument. Lucy admits that she was trying to show off that she could be a good mother. [Back to top]

Wayne's World

Original air date: November 29, 2004

What's the message: Just because people don't understand what you are going through doesn't mean they can't help you.

What's up with Lucy: She's confined to bed rest for the remainder of her pregnancy – and only allowed out of bed for five minutes a day. Her yelling at Kevin for his not possibly being able to understand what she is going through keeps the entire Camden family awake at night. She then makes Annie wait on her and whines about being bored.

What's up with Martin: He's acting weird: he's rude to Ruthie; he gets a D on a history paper, and he gets into arguments with Max. After getting into a fight on the baseball field, he gets kicked off the team. The coach tells him he's off the team until his attitude changes. .

What's up with Kevin: He falls asleep on the job and the chief sends him home to go take care of Lucy. Kevin discovers that Lucy is in danger of not graduating college unless she completes a final term paper. He has trouble convincing Lucy that she can get it done – even from bed.

What's up with Ruthie: She argues with Martin at school. She then asks Eric to talk to Martin about his bad attitude. However, as she is helping Annie put laundry away, she happens to see an e-mail on Martin's computer that explains Martin's bad attitude.

How it all ends up: Martin's father's tour of duty in Iraq has been extended and he won't be coming home early next year. This has put Martin in his foul mood, and his mood doesn't get any better when he learns Ruthie was snooping in his room. He blows up at Ruthie, Eric and Max.

Wayne Newton (guest-starring as himself) arrives at the Camden's. Wayne wants to speak to Martin – he has a message for him from Martin's father. Wayne is the chairman of the Celebrity Circle of the USO, and tells Martin he has just returned from a USO trip to Iraq where he met with Martin's dad. His message to Martin is to hang in there. Wayne gives Martin a pep talk – reminding him that thousands of troops are over in the Middle East and all of them have had to leave their families. He gives Martin the number of a support group, and tells him that war is hard on the families left behind – but it helps the troops to believe that their families are doing OK at home.

Martin then apologizes to Ruthie, Eric and Annie, his coach, and Max.

Kevin helps Lucy finish her final term paper. She gets it done, and Kevin announces he has a surprise for her. He carries her out to the backyard where he has arranged a mini-graduation ceremony for her. The dean is there to give her a diploma. Lucy graduates college. [Back to top]

Gratitude
Original air date: November 21, 2004

What's the message: It's time for all the Camden kids to grow up.

What's up with Lucy: She and Matt are at the grocery store where she's going into overdrive preparing for the Thanksgiving meal she is going to make. She gets pains in the store and collapses. Matt rushes her to the hospital. Lucy's very worried about losing the baby and blames herself for not taking better care of the baby. She tells Matt it's time for her to stop thinking only of herself. Though she has gone into labor early, her doctor assures her the baby is fine and they will be able to delay her baby's delivery. However, Lucy goes into a seizure.

What's up with Kevin: He doesn't know about Lucy's being in the hospital because he's on an undercover drug bust.

What's up with Matt: He tries to butt in on Lucy's care and questions Lucy's doctor about his treatment of Lucy. The doctor points out Matt's mistakes. However, when Lucy goes into her seizure, it's Matt who helps the doctor save her.

What's up with Simon: He tries to convince Georgia to go with him to counseling to figure out how to deal with becoming parents - and telling their parents that Georgia is pregnant. Georgia refuses to go to counseling, so Simon goes to the women's health center without her. He talks to a young woman in the waiting room and she tells him his baby will be lucky to have him for a dad. Later, Simon tells Georgia he's ready to tell their parents.

What's up with Eric and Annie: They, and the twins, have gone to visit Ginger for a second Thanksgiving. On the drive home, Eric comes down with a cold; however, they do enjoy their road trip together. When they get home, they get the news that Lucy is in the hospital.

What's up with Ruthie: She's in Puerto Rico for Thanksgiving, but she keeps calling home.

How it all ends up: Simon tells Georgia that he's finally ready to tell his parents. However, Georgia admits that she is not pregnant, and she never was. She tells Simon she was jealous of his friend Christina, and afraid that she was going to loose Simon. So, she faked the pregnancy to get Simon to marry her.

Lucy and the baby are fine. Kevin, who has successfully busted a drug dealer, arrives at the hospital. Eric and Annie arrive too. Simon shows up and meets Matt in the hall and tells him the news that Georgia is not pregnant. He tells Matt he's sorry he came to GlenOak to support him for no reason. But, Matt tells him he was glad he came anyway. Ruthie calls again and Martin answers again. Ruthie tells him she's homesick. He tells her that he knows how she feels - he doesn't get to spend Thanksgiving with his family either. He tells her to keep busy to keep her mind off of her homesickness. She thanks him for the advise and tells him that she's glad he answered the phone - and that she loves him (like a brother).

As Eric and Annie say goodnight to Lucy at the hospital, Annie says the Camdens have a lot to be grateful for this Thanksgiving. [Back to top]

Thanksgiving
Original air date: November 15, 2004

What's the message: A family is meant to be celebrated everyday - not just on holidays.

What's up with Annie: She gets upset with Matt and Sarah when they make a surprise visit home the weekend before Thanksgiving - because they won't be able to get away from medical school. Annie insists on every Camden family member being home for Thanksgiving. She even calls Matt and Sarah's dean to get them out of work. She goes crazy making crafts and perfecting the menu. Soon she finds out many other Camdens will not be coming home.

Who's not showing up for Thanksgiving? Mary, Carlos and baby Charles are going to Puerto Rico to be with Carlos' family. Ruthie is going to Puerto Rico to visit and to help out with the baby. Simon is working at the college radio station. Martin is going camping with Mac. Lucy was planning on hosting her first Thanksgiving for the family.

What's up with Eric: He calls Carlos and Simon, begging them to come home because it's very important to Annie. He tries to get Kevin to convince Lucy to scrap her Thanksgiving plans. He also tries to talk Martin and his friend Mac to stay in town for the holiday.

What's really up with Simon: He and his girlfriend Georgia talk about telling their parents their "news," saying he doesn't want to ruin the holiday by telling them on Thanksgiving. Simon tells Georgia that Matt and Sarah, who already know the news, have flown home for the weekend specifically to offer their family support after Simon breaks their news. Georgia tells Simon she doesn't want to tell their families until after New Year's Day.

How it all ends up: When Annie learns of everyone's alternative Thanksgiving plans she gets very upset and tells them all "you are not my family." Eric finally figures out why this Thanksgiving was so important to Annie: It's the first one without her father. Annie tells him that she thought if the whole family was together she might be able to forget her father is not here. Martin overhears Annie and Eric discussing this, and he talks to Annie about knowing how it is to loose a parent and how painful the holidays can be.

Lucy agrees to put her Thanksgiving plans on hold until next year. Ruthie calls Carlos to tell him she can't go to Puerto Rico. However Annie softens her stance, and takes Matt's words to heart: family should be celebrated everyday. Annie apologizes to everyone and tells them that they will have Thanksgiving dinner early - with all the family that are there. She then passes the Thanksgiving apron to Lucy and they cook the dinner together. [Back to top]

Why Not You?
Original air date: November 1, 2004

What's the message: Even the best problem solver in the world needs help every once in a while.

What's up with Kevin: Simon turns to him for a $500 loan - bypassing Eric and Annie. Kevin says yes, but Lucy makes him tell Eric and Annie about. Though they are concerned about Simon being in trouble and not turning to them, they agree to let Kevin try to help Simon.

What's up with Simon: He has been kicked out of the dorm because he allowed a girl, Christina Davis, to live with him. Christina - not Simon's girlfriend - had no place to live after she broke up with her boyfriend. Additionally she has no money and no family to turn to - she was raised in social services. She and Simon want to move into an apartment together off campus, and he needs the $500 for a security deposit.

What's up with Eric: He waits by the phone - somehow knowing that Kevin is probably going to be in over his head trying to help Simon. Kevin does call Eric for help with Simon. Unable to talk the dean into letting Simon stay on campus, he finds two single apartments for Simon and Christina. Eric also finds a campus job for Christina. She thanks him, but says it's her sister back in GlenOak who really needs Eric's help. Eric finds out that Christina actually has two sisters (one who is disabled) and a brother all in separate social service homes. He vows to help her whole family.

How it all ends up: Kevin apologizes to Eric for getting in over his head trying to help Simon. But Eric is actually in over his head too: He's having a hard time finding a solution to find a foster home for the Davis children. Against the advice of social worker, Greta, Eric goes to visit the Davis' mom, Allison (guest-star Mackenzie Phillips). Allison is living in a half-way house and lets Eric know that once she is done with her court-ordered rehab, she plans on going back on drugs. She doesn't want her kids back, but she also doesn't want to relinquish her rights so that they might more easily be adopted.

When Eric can't come up with a solution he prays. Just as he's asking God for help, Annie comes in the room with an idea. She wants to go through the process of becoming licensed foster parents - not to become foster parents themselves, but to help others in their church go through the process. Later, Eric appeals to church members to become foster parents. He tells them there are a half a million children in social services and in need of a home and that he wants to open the church up to adoptions agencies that place children from all over the world. He tells them "Save the life of a child, you save the world."

For more information about child and family services visit www.vistadelmar.org. [Back to top]

Regret to Inform
Original air date: October 25, 2004

What's the message: Telling the truth is always easier in the long run.

What's up with Martin: He meets an older woman while at the pool hall, Venus (guest-star Martha Plimpton). Because he is hanging out with Kevin, Venus mistakenly thinks Martin is a rookie cop. Venus is attracted to Martin, and Martin drives her home. She doesn't give him the chance to tell her that he's only 17. They talk and he learns that her father is a Marine stationed in Afghanistan. They commiserate about having fathers so far away. When Martin doesn't come home, Eric and Annie worry. They turn to Kevin to help them find Martin. Kevin suspects Martin is with Venus, so he calls his cop friends looking for Venus' phone number. He gets the number, calls her house and tells Martin to go home. Martin is upset that Annie and Eric are waiting up for him - reminding them they aren't his parents.

What's up with Kevin: His cop buddies think Kevin was looking for Venus' number for himself, and soon a rumor starts around the station that Kevin is cheating on Lucy with Venus. Captain Michaels overhears the rumor and believes it as well. He makes Kevin work an extra late shift - believing he's keeping Kevin out of trouble.

What's up with Ben: He has spent the weekend with Dr. Pearson (the doctor Kevin didn't like). He wants to convince Kevin to let Dr. Pearson deliver Lucy's baby. He goes to talk to Kevin at the station and Capt. Michaels pulls him aside and tells him Kevin is cheating on Lucy with Venus. Ben visits Lucy and acts suspiciously - leading Lucy to believe that Kevin may be cheating on her.

What's up with Lucy: She goes to the police station to verify that Kevin is working. Kevin is at the station taking a statement from a guy he has just arrested. Lucy shows up and notices the folks at the station are acting weird when they see her. She asks Kevin what's going on and the guy he has just arrested says "he's cheating on you with Venus."

How does it all turn out: Martin sees Venus again - at school. She's substitute teaching and when she sees Martin at school, she just assumes he's working undercover. Martin doesn't correct her. His friend Max starts spreading the rumor around school that Martin is dating a substitute teacher. Eric and Annie get wind of it and warn Martin that they don't approve. Eric gives him the "my house, my rules" lecture. Martin informs Eric that he's decided to become emancipated - and wants to move out on his own. (He has money from a trust fund his mother set up for him.) He packs a bag and heads over to Venus' house. However, he sees casualty assistance officers pulling up to Venus' house - about to deliver bad news to Venus about her father. Martin breaks down and calls Eric for help.

Eric advises Martin to visit Venus - alone - and be there for her as a friend. Martin says it would have been easier to do if he didn't first have to explain how he lied to her about being a cop. Eric tells Martin that this time he and Annie won't be waiting up for him. Martin gives Eric his cell phone number - in case they are worried about him. Venus admits to Martin she figured out he wasn't a cop. Her father has been killed, and Martin stays to comfort her - as a friend and as the son of a Marine

Kevin comes home to Lucy and tells her what she wants to hear: that he is not cheating on her, that he will love her forever. She believes him. [Back to top]

Fathers
Original air date: October 18, 2004

What's the message: A fatherhood is the best explained by another father.

What's up with Eric: He plans to spend his rare Saturday off playing with the twins. However, his plans are interrupted by the return of Charlie - the teen father from several episodes ago. Charlie tells Eric he wants to quit being a father and begs Eric to help him get out of being a dad.

What's up with Kevin: His brother Ben is hanging around again - looking out for Kevin. Since their father died when they were young, Ben is concerned that Kevin won't know how to be a good father. Kevin is worried too. He and Lucy go to her doctor's appointment, and Ben insists on tagging along. The appointment doesn't go well - Kevin doesn't like the doctor who treats him rudely and gives him a reading list, which Kevin resents.

What's up with Lucy: She likes the new doctor - a British woman. She tells her she hopes she's the doctor on duty when she delivers. She argues with Kevin about it, and turns to Annie for advice.

What's up with Ruthie: She overhears a conversation between Martin and Mac. Mac says he needs a girlfriend and Martin suggests a few girls he might ask out, including a freshman. Ruthie puts on make-up and Annie asks her what's up with that. She asks Annie if it would be OK if she hangs out with Martin and Mac - if they ask her too. She swears to Annie that she is not interested in dating Martin or Mac, so Annie says OK. Later, Ruthie invites herself along when Martin and Mac go out for pizza.

How does it all turn out: Eric gets Charlie to agree to come over later in the evening to talk to someone who might understand his situation better, Wilson. Wilson is Mary's ex-boyfriend from high school. Wilson was a single, teen father. He's happily married now - to a woman who was also a teen mom. He tells Charlie he understands how difficult being a teen father can be, but tells him it's very important that he stick with it - children do better when their fathers are in their lives.

Annie tells Lucy to support Kevin and go with the doctor his is more comfortable with. Lucy agrees. Kevin is relieved.

Ruthie flirts with Mac when she is out with him and Martin. But when two older girls show up, Mac introduces Ruthie to them as the girl who is "like a little sister" to him. Ruthie is crushed. She runs home and wipes off her makeup. Eric rushes to talk to her and she admits she did wear the make-up in the hopes of looking older and attracting Mac to ask her out. Eric tells her she looks beautiful without make-up, but that she looked sophisticated with it and that she should wear it again if she wants to -- for herself. Ruthie says she wants a boy to love her. Later, Ruthie tells Lucy that it'll be impossible to find a man that is as great as their father. Lucy says it's not impossible - she found Kevin.

Eric talks to Kevin. Kevin admits that he is very nervous about being a father. Eric tells him that he, too, was nervous when Annie was in labor. And he says fatherhood is so challenging because every child is different. Eric says he doesn't want to make any mistakes. Eric tells him that every father makes mistakes, and the best thing he can do is be good to his wife. Eric also tells Kevin he's very happy to have him in the family and tells him he's sure his father would be proud of him. [Back to top]

Vote
Original air date: October 11, 2004

What's the message: It doesn't matter who you vote for, just vote. And, if you are too young to vote, encourage everyone you know who is old enough to vote to do so.

What's up with Sam and David: They argue with each other - calling each other names. When Eric tries to stop them, they claim their heard politicians on TV calling people names so they thought it was OK.

What's up with Ruthie: She happens upon a political debate at school. Everyone is expressing a different opinion about both domestic and foreign policy. Ruthie is embarrassed when she realizes she doesn't have an opinion on the upcoming election. She tells Annie that she is swearing off boys and is going to concentrate of current events.

What's up with Martin: He's very opinionated about the upcoming election, and debates with kids at school about the merits of the war in Iraq. Martin agrees with the war. Martin offers to help Ruthie with her history assignment, i.e. help her form a political opinion.

What's up with Lucy: She hasn't registered to vote yet, and Annie is urging her to do it. Initially she lies to Kevin about having registered, but he discovers she hasn't registered.

What's up with Kevin: He, too, has not updated his voter registration. He and Lucy fight about it.

What's up with Annie: She takes Lucy out to dinner to discuss the fight Lucy and Kevin were having. Lucy discovers that Annie didn't vote in the last election. Annie begs her to not to tell Eric.

What's up with Eric: He calls Simon, Matt, and Carlos (Mary's husband) to remind them to vote. Everyone tunes him out - hearing only "blah, blah, blah." Also, when Eric doles out his usual advice and lectures to Ruthie, Martin, the twins, and Kevin - all they hear is "blah, blah, blah." Kevin discovers that Eric didn't vote in the last election. Eric begs him not to tell anyone.

How it all ends up: Eric and Annie admit to each other that they didn't vote in the last election. But, instead of fighting about it, they retire to the bedroom. Kevin and Lucy register to vote together. Matt runs into Carlos while they are registering to vote and they go to lunch. All the married couples agree - they will not tell each other who they are voting for. Eric vows that he's not going to talk so much anymore - especially about politics.

Martin helps the twins understand the presidential election better by reading them "Christopher for President."

Ruthie forms a political opinion: If kids had the right to vote, the world would be a different place - especially for children. She tells a crowd at school that since they don't have the right to vote, they should encourage those they love who are old enough, to vote. [Back to top]

Bad Boys, Bad Boys, Whatcha Gonna Do
Original air date: October 5, 2004

What's the message: With patience and the help and love of family and friends, mistakes can be overcome.

What's up with Eric: He is asked by a pregnant teen, Leann, to help her choose adoptive parents for her baby. However, Leann goes into labor before Eric has time to interview potential parents. Eric finds Leann's boyfriend, Charlie, and tells him about Leann's pregnancy. Eric offers to help Charlie tell his parents about the pregnancy.

What's up with Annie: Annie goes to the hospital to be with Leann. Leann's mother kicked her out of the house when she learned of the pregnancy and refuses to let Leann come home unless she gives the baby up for adoption. Leann is distraught and says she doesn't want to put the baby up for adoption. Annie counsels her and tells her that everything is going to be OK. She tells Leann just because she made a mistake, her life isn't over. Annie calls Leann's mom and tries to get her to come to the hospital. She refuses - saying she's not the mother-type. Annie tells her she can change that.

What's up with Lucy: She takes over interviewing prospective parents for Leann's baby. The first couple mistakenly thinks Lucy is the one giving her baby up. Lucy rejects them because they only want a gifted child. The second set of parents are business owners who are too busy to have their own child. She rejects them too.

What's up with Simon: He runs into Justin - the brother of the boy who Simon hit. Justin has transformed himself and tells Simon that he is doing well and is drug free. Simon admits to Justin that he's not doing so well himself, and has been dreading running into Justin ever since the accident. Simon also admits that he has trouble even getting on a bike since the accident. Justin asks Simon if he would like to have coffee sometime.

What's up with Ruthie & Harry: While she's busy trying to save an abandoned bird, Harry is plotting to break up with Ruthie. He asks Annie and Eric to tell Ruthie that he doesn't want to go out with her anymore. Harry explains to Eric that he's met another girl who is also in social services. And, since he and the girl are both alone and have no chance to being adopted, Harry wants to marry her - to a least start his own family.

What's up with Kevin & Martin: Martin talks to Kevin about sex. He also tells Kevin that he saw Harry with another girl and thinks he's going to break up with Ruthie. This angers Kevin and they both go to see Harry at the social services home.

How it all ends up: Eric succeeds in convincing Charlie and his parents to go to the hospital to be with Leann. Annie convinces Leann's mom to be there as well. Charlie and Leann's parents discuss the possibility of Charlie and Leann getting married.

Kevin, Martin and Harry take Ruthie's bird to the animal rescue shelter. Even though Ruthie fed the bird worms from a bait shop (a big no no - those worms have parasites), the bird will live. Kevin and Martin convince Harry to tell Ruthie himself that he doesn't want to go out with her. However, Ruthie has told Lucy that she doesn't want to date Harry. Lucy is happy that Ruthie has confided in her. Harry and Ruthie break up with each other at exactly the same time

Simon meets Justin and they go for a bike ride together.

Harry says he's not going to get married and he's sure God will find a home for him.

Lucy tells everyone she is so thankful she has a husband like Kevin and a family to turn to if she ever needs them.

Leann gives birth to a healthy boy. [Back to top]

Song of Lucy
Original air date: September 27, 2004

What's the message: It's your job to make yourself happy.

What's up with Simon: He tells Eric that he has broken up with Georgia. Then, he heads off to a session with a therapist, but warns Eric that he won't tell him about it afterwards - since therapy sessions are confidential. Initially, Simon doesn't take the therapy session seriously and tells the doctor he's only there because his father threatened not to pay his tuition if he doesn't go. But, Simon returns to the therapist later in the day and admits that maybe he does have a problem.

What's up with Ruthie: She asks Eric if she can start dating. She's met a cute boy in detention, Harry (guest star Nick Carter). However Eric isn't sure she's ready to date. And, Martin makes Eric more skeptical when he tells him he doesn't like Harry. In the hall at school, Harry sneaks a kiss and Ruthie tells him to stop, and that she'll let him know when she's ready to be kissed. Martin sees the kiss and warns Harry to stay away from Ruthie. Ruthie tells Martin she doesn't need his protection.

What's up with Lucy: She is now an associate pastor at the church and Eric asks her to deliver the sermon Sunday as a way to introduce her to the congregation. It's also a way for her to introduce her new teen sex classes. Lucy's initially excited about the chance to deliver the sermon, but later she admits she's having a hard time writing it.

What's up with Eric: He learns from Georgia that she and Simon have not broken up. Eric is upset that Simon has lied to him. Annie thinks she and Eric are not making it easy for Simon to tell them the truth. Eric also tries to learn more about Harry before he lets Ruthie date. He interrogates Harry and learns that Harry was in detention for pulling a prank involving "stealing" a teacher's car. He also learns that Harry lives in a county facility and has been bounced from foster home to foster home.

How it all ends up: Simon's therapist helps him come to the realization that he was skipping classes to have sex with Georgia because it helped him get his mind off of the fatal accident of two summers ago. He admits that he thought he was going to hell anyway for killing someone, so he may as well have sex. Simon agrees to continue therapy and he tells Eric and Annie so. He also breaks up with Georgia, telling her he needs to get to know himself better before he gets involved in a serious relationship. Later, he and Georgia agree to try to pursue a less physical relationship.

Eric tells Ruthie she can spend time with Harry at the house so that he and Annie can get to know Harry better. Martin tells Harry he doesn't like him, but he'll give him another chance. Ruthie tells Martin she kinda likes it when he acts like her big brother.

Lucy turns to Eric for advice on her sermon. He only tells her to look in the mirror. She then turns to Kevin for help, asking him why he loves her. He tells her he loves her because she loves herself - and that she doesn't look to him to make her happy. Lucy delivers her sermon. She talks about the Song of Solomon from the Bible and the unnamed woman in the story who is not ashamed of herself and loves who she is. She tells the teens in the congregation, especially the girls, that it's their job to make yourself happy. She tells them not to think that having a boyfriend, or having sex will make them happy. She encourages everyone to experience passion and discover what they need and want for themselves. [Back to top]

Best Laid Plans
Original air date: September 20, 2004

What's the message: When it comes to talking to teens, even experienced parents need advice.

What's up with Eric & Annie: They crash Simon and Georgia's romantic dinner. Eric continues to try to figure out what is going on with Simon, but he goes about it all the wrong ways - further alienating Simon. Eric and Annie both agree that they are not happy with themselves and the way they are handling Simon.

What's up with Simon: He continues to avoid talking to Eric or Annie about his problems. He spends the night in a hotel with Georgia and when he gets home, he refuses to talk to Eric. However, Eric learns that Simon has been put on disciplinary probation at college - but he refuses to tell Eric why. He finally confides to Matt what is really going on with him. He asks Matt to tell Eric and Annie.

What's up with Matt: He doles out great advice to nearly everyone. He convinces Martin to give Ruthie another chance to apologize. He advises Kevin on how to handle Lucy. He encourages Ruthie to do things differently from the other Camden kids - meaning finish college, then have a career, then get married, then have sex. He gives the best advice to Eric and Annie, telling them that it's harder for kids growing up now, and that they need to find a new way to communicate with Simon.

What's up with Lucy: Eric asks her to teach a youth class about sex at church. Lucy happily agrees. Later, Lucy breaks down - telling Kevin she doesn't think she can do it - have a baby that is.

How it all ends up: Simon finally talks to Eric and confesses that he has been put on disciplinary probation because he and Georgia cut too many classes in order to spend more time together. He tells Eric that he became obsessed with having sex with Georgia. And, when Cecelia broke up with him, he jumped back into a relationship with Georgia. Now, he wants to break it off with Georgia, and he wants Eric to tell him that it will all be OK. Eric tells Simon he probably hasn't gotten over the trauma of the car crash two summer's ago that resulted in a boy's death - especially since Simon has blown off counseling. And, that is why Simon is behaving the way he is. Eric encourages Simon to pray for forgiveness and make a commitment to himself not to have sex again until he's married. He also encourages Simon to go back to counseling. Simon says he will think about it.

Kevin helps Lucy realize that everything will be OK, and that she should let everyone share in the joy of her pregnancy. Lucy (finally wearing maternity clothes) and Kevin gather everyone together to announce they've found out the sex of their baby. They're having a girl! [Back to top]

Dropping Trou
Season Premiere
Original air date: September 13, 2004

What's the message? Parenting is challenging no matter how old your children are.

What's up with Sam & David: Their first day of kindergarten doesn't go well and they get sent home with a note after getting into a fight with a girl.

What's up with Ruthie: Her first day of high school is a disaster - she's mad at Martin because he won't give her a ride to school. So, when she sees him in the school hallway, she pulls his low-riding, baggy jeans down. A teacher catches her.

What's up with Martin: He's angry at Eric for defending Ruthie after she pulled down his pants in school.

What's up with Simon: He has gotten back together with his college girlfriend, Georgia. Annie catches them as they are sneaking out of the house. She accuses him of having sex, but he refuses to talk to her about it, saying he's 18 years old now and doesn't have to tell her what he is doing. He also reveals to Eric that he was back in the area during the school year to meet Georgia's parents, but didn't come home to visit. He also says he's been dipping into his savings account - but it's he's not worried because he's gotten a partial scholarship. He refuses to discuss anything further with Eric.

What's up with Lucy: Not only does she refuse to wear maternity pants, she also refuses to share any of her thoughts and concerns with Kevin. Though she seems to be stressing out about finishing school and starting a family, she refuses any help from anyone - including Eric.

What's up with Matt: He is on vacation from medical school, and visiting GlenOak (without Sarah). He tries to help Kevin understand what's going on with Lucy and her pregnancy. He and Kevin bond.

What's up with Annie: She and Eric quarrel over how to handle the various family problems they are having. She thinks she can handle some situations by herself, but Eric wants her to team up with him to provide a united front when dealing with the kids.

What's up with Eric: He has trouble communicating with everyone in the Camden household.

How it ends up: Eric eventually has success talking to Lucy. He convinces her to let Kevin be a supportive husband. He also finds out what's really going on with her: she wanted to be named associate pastor at his church. He tells her he'll consider it. Eric also smoothes things over with Martin - apologizing for not being more supportive after the Ruthie incident. Ruthie gets a week-long detention for the incident, however, she dodges apologizing to Martin.

Eric insists on having a heart-to-heart discussion with Simon about his life - especially his sex life. When Simon skips a family dinner in order to have a fancy dinner with Georgia, Eric convinces Annie to crash their party. Matt tries to dissuade Eric and Annie from butting in on their dinner. Matt tells them they should be buying Simon condoms instead.

The story is to be continued….

Where is everyone else? Peter and his family have moved away. Cecelia is on vacation. Chandler has left GlenOak and is no longer associate pastor. . [Back to top]