The winter solstice opens Chris to new creative pursuits, but it encourages Joel to betray his Hippocratic oath after he's denied a vacation. Meanwhile, residents muster empathy for a down-on-his-luck veteran.

The romantic mood of Maggie's dinner for Mike is doused by his announcement that he's leaving; Shelly's redecorating takes its toll on Holling; and Maurice brings north the family home.