As the Thanksgiving holiday approaches, members of the widely dispersed Walton clan try to organize a family reunion. Elizabeth feels sad about those who cannot be there, including her boyfriend Drew, her parents, and John-Boy. Also, newlyweds Erin and Paul want to move out; Jason decides to make more of his musical talent, while Jim-Bob asks the Baldwin sisters to help him expand his garage business. In New York City, John-Boy is in a relationship with Jane Schuler, who tries to help him deal with writer's block. Mary Ellen and Jonesy must fatten up a turkey for the big day. John Curtis continuously runs off to the woods to meet an invisible "friend." The family is surprised to find out who it is while looking through a family album.