Since Marin has yet to meet Julia, Jack invites her and her husband, Jim (Josh Stamberg), to their home. Over dinner the couples learn some surprising things about themselves. Meanwhile Jane has mixed feelings about the diamond engagement ring that Sam gives her from the sanitation department's lost & found, Mai learns some disappointing news about Buzz, and Annie finds Patrick in a compromising position with Ivan's wingwoman, Greta.

Marin helps a nervous Jack as he prepares for his first lecture as a college professor in Anchorage. Upon his return, he brings Marin a gift -- four puppies that she ends up taking care of -- and which keep her from getting any of her book writing finished. Meanwhile, as Annie puts together auditions for Elmo's First Annual Talent Show, she thinks she might be falling for Ivan. In New York, Patrick is unclear about Pilar's advances toward him.