Mel is anxious about her mother Monica's first visit in years. But when Joe tries to help smooth over their relationship, he gives Monica some advice that infuriates Mel. Meanwhile, when Lennox tries to get out of gym class, her teacher assumes she's pregnant.

Mel is irritated with Joe's visiting girlfriend, Elena, when she starts monopolizing him, leaving little time for the rest of his duties. However, Mel soon befriends her, which leads to trouble between Elena and Joe. But then problems arise back in Russia, leading Elena to rely on Mel and Joe even more. Meanwhile, Ryder volunteers to help Lennox with an experiment, which requires him to only eat vending machine food, but he soon regrets his helpfulness.