Most Favorite Episode from Each Season of Little House on the Prairie (Seasons 7 - 9)

Continuing to share my favorite episode of each season of Little House on the Prairie, this time covering Seasons 7, 8, and 9.

Season 7 - "Come, Let Us Reason Together"

Percival's parents visit Walnut Grove as they anticipate the birth of their first grandchild. Harriet Oleson and Benjamin Cohen argue over whether the baby will be raised Jewish or Christian, which upsets the happy couple and leads to a unique way to settle things. 

Why it's my favorite from Season 7: Choosing a Season 7 favorite seemed like an impossible task. I could have chosen any of the five I mentioned in this post. What made the decision for me was that I love Nellie and Percival together. They are adorable, and the actors have fabulous chemistry. Percival's dedication to Nellie never wavers. When she fears his parents won't like her, he reassures her. When the arguing between his father and Nellie's mother becomes too much for his wife, he protects her. And Percival reminds all the parents of the importance of staying focused on what faith is truly about. 

Season 8 - "Days of Sunshine, Days of Shadow"

Almanzo's recovery from diphtheria is hampered by a stroke that paralyses him. The arrival of Eliza Jane delays Almanzo's progress, causing rifts between Beth and Manly and between Laura and her sister-in-law. After the birth of Rose, Eliza Jane's plans deepen the divide, but when it seems darkest, Almanzo faces some hard truths that lead to a remarkable change.

Why it's my favorite from Season 8: I often note this episode as my favorite in the series. Dean Butler's portrayal of a man in the depths of despair is outstanding. Not that Melissa Gilbert's acting is anything less than stellar, but the character of Almanzo is generally a happy, even-keeled guy until this happens. He admits to Laura that he can't believe how horribly wrong life has gone. He tells his sister to go away because he is praying to die. To watch Butler dig deep into the effects of depression on Almanzo is something unexpected for viewers. Then, to watch Almanzo turn it around when Laura is at her breaking point displays Manly's love for his wife, and this becomes the catalyst for his recovery. 

Season 9 - "A Child with No Name"

The Wilders welcome a son to their family, but his sudden death finds a grieving Laura blaming Doc Baker. Soon, the entire town turns against him. When Rose comes down with smallpox, Doc Baker works night and day caring for her despite Laura's misgivings.

Why it's my favorite from Season 9: Maybe I like to see the Wilders in crisis mode. One's heart can't help but break for Laura and Almanzo when they lose their son. This episode starts off lightheartedly, with the family trying to figure out what to name the baby and experiencing more first-time parent jitters than they did with Rose--which Laura justifies because of her family's history and the lack of boys born to the Ingalls family. After that, it becomes a story of survival--for Doc Baker's reputation and Rose Wilder's life. The conversation between Harriet and Nels when he is angry over her shunning his friend is intense. She is in total Mama Bear mode. It was great to see the residents of Walnut Grove congregate in the center of town to convince Doctor Baker to stay. 

That brings us to the end of the series. We will discuss the three post-series movies next. 

Most Favorite Episode from Each Season of Little House on the Prairie (Seasons 4 - 6)

Continuing to share my favorite episode of each season of Little House on the Prairie, this time covering Seasons 4, 5, and 6. 

Season 4 - "Here Come the Brides"

Adam Simms and his son, Luke, arrive in Walnut Grove. Nellie is quickly smitten with the barefooted pig farmer who has joined the one-room schoolhouse, much to her mother's dismay. Meanwhile, Adam and Miss Beadle's relationship blossoms into love. When Nellie and Luke run off to elope, Adam, Miss Beadle, and the Olesons race off to stop them before it's too late.

Why it's my favorite from Season 4: If you look at the rest of my favorites from this season, there is a ton of intense drama. The entire season is way more drama than comedy: Laura's dog dies; Mary finds out that John Jr. no longer loves her; Laura is kidnapped; Doc Baker quits when he loses a patient; the Garveys lose their entire crop; oh, and Mary loses her eyesight. Seriously, thanks to episodes like "Here Comes the Brides" and "The Creeper of Walnut Grove," viewers get a comedy break. 

Though watching Nellie fall in love for the first time is fun, it is the sometimes awkwardly developing relationship between Eva Beadle and Adam Simms that makes this a great episode. Miss Beadle has had a beau in the past ("Four Eyes" in Season 2), but mature single people in Walnut Grove don't seem to have much luck in the romance department. These two, however, fall in love, get married, and later in the season welcome a son ("A Most Precious Gift.") 

This episode is filled with memorable scenes, and I will share two. The first takes place at 42:05, as Luke is pacing the hotel room floor, waiting for Nellie to change behind the screen. He watches while she slings her dress over the top, growing more uncomfortable with each passing second. Then it is Luke's turn to change, and Nellie watches with wide eyes as his overalls appear over the top of the screen. You know they are already regretting their decision. 

Then, at 44:38, the now fully dressed Luke and Nellie are marched back to the Justice of the Peace. When he trudges to the front door and sees them standing there, he moans, "Oh no!" He opens the door and says, "Tell me, what's Walnut Grove got against me?" You can't help but laugh.

Season 5 - "The Wedding" 

Caroline and Charles receive word that Mary and Adam are going to be married. Because of the expense, Ma and Pa make the decision to leave all the children at home, and they journey by train to Winoka. As they sit down to dinner with Mary and Adam, Caroline shares stories of raising children. Suddenly frightened by the prospect of two blind people needing to care for a sighted child, Mary calls off the wedding. When Susan Goodspeed is lost during a sandstorm, Mary and Adam must search for her, giving Mary the confidence she needs to proceed with the wedding.

Why it's my favorite from Season 5: There are a ton of great Caroline moments in this episode: 

• When Charles brings her the telegram, she says, "Oh, my goodness. My baby's getting married." Then she is overcome with emotion, which doesn't often happen to Caroline.
• When Reverend Alden tells her he will go to Winoka to marry them, she is so excited that she kisses him on the cheek. 
• How she brings her wedding dress for Mary to wear, and the tender conversation they have.
• Her expression when Adam shows up at their hotel room after Mary has called off the wedding. 
• After the storm is over, as Caroline and Mary are in her room getting ready for the wedding, they have a laugh, and Caroline says that her old Mary is back. 
• Her expression, holding back tears, as Mary weds Adam, with Reverend Alden officiating. 

Another nice moment takes place in Walnut Grove at about 7:57. Nels calls Charles into the storeroom and asks him to give Mary a decorative box with a singing bird on it. When Charles argues that it costs too much, Nels tells him, "That little girl has been my pet since the first day she walked into the store." 

Season 6 - "Sweet Sixteen"

Laura earns her teaching certificate before her sixteenth birthday, so that she can teach in Curry while the regular teacher recovers. Almanzo helps Charles out by bringing her to Curry and picking her up a week later, which is enough time apart for Almanzo to realize she is no longer a little girl. Once home, Laura confides in Ma that she thinks what she has been dreaming of is finally happening between Almanzo and her, but his jealousy threatens their budding romance.

Why it's my favorite from Season 6: Choosing a favorite in this season was tougher than I thought it would be. "Back to School" is great because it introduces Almanzo Wilder, and Laura decides that she will make him see her as a woman one day. "Annabelle" is wonderful because we get some Nels backstory and a stunned Almanzo receives a kiss from an unknown clown. "Wilder and Wilder" is awesome because Laura teaches Almanzo a lesson not to underestimate her. But who can't appreciate Almanzo's change of heart toward Laura in "Sweet Sixteen?" 

As he admits to Charles, he always saw Laura as a young friend, but something changed after she went away. Suddenly, she doesn't seem like the young girl that he pulled off Nellie Oleson in the watering hole ("Back to School.") He's jealous when he thinks Chad Brewster is coming on to Laura, which she bites his head off for. And amazingly, throughout this episode, Laura is finally the one in control of her emotions, even as she is about to get a kiss from the man she has been pursuing since they first met. Almanzo is the one whose feelings are all out of sorts. This is a really good way to bring them into their married years, where Laura was more of an equal partner. 

Most Favorite Episode from Each Season of Little House on the Prairie (Seasons 1 - 3)

For a few months, I spent time outlining my five favorite episodes from each season. Now, let's narrow that list down to one favorite episode per season and share more reasons why each episode is a favorite. 

Season 1 - "School Mom"

Caroline Ingalls steps in to teach school when Miss Beadle is injured. She takes extra time to help an older boy, Abel, learn how to read. But when Mrs. Oleson interferes, all her work is ruined. 

Why it's my favorite from Season 1: To make a choice in Season 1 was challenging, because there were so many great episodes that season. However, one of the funniest early scenes happens in this episode. 

About 31 minutes into it, the school board arrives at the Ingalls place. Caroline had quit after Mrs. Oleson interrupted her class to complain about how she had changed her teaching methods to help Abel learn how to read. Mr. Hanson and Doc Baker, with the Olesons in tow, ask her to return. Instead of answering, she asks what Mr. Hanson would do if someone came into his mill while he was grinding wheat into flour and and tossed a rock between the millstones, ruining all his work. 

Mr. Hanson replies, "I would take that person by the back of the collar and the seat of the pants, and I would throw him right into the middle of the street."

"That idea did occur to me," says Caroline, "but unhappily, I am a lady. And this person was also a lady." 

It was also nice to see her reason with Abel and encourage him to return to school, which he does. 

Season 2 - "For My Lady"

Charles's work for the Widow Thurman gets Harriet's tongue wagging, which causes tension between Charles and Caroline. Because of some white lies Charles tells to hide a secret he is planning, Caroline worries the rumors might have some truth.

Why it's my favorite from Season 2: In addition to Charles secretly working for Mrs. Thurman to pay for her old china as a gift for Caroline, there are back-to-back scenes that make this a winner. 

The first is 14:30 into the episode. Earlier in the episode, Charles had asked the banker, Mr. Sprague, for a small personal loan. Sprague denied him for two reasons: 1) he hadn't yet paid off his current note (though Charles told him at least twice that he planned to do it the next day, and 2) he told him that if it wasn't essential, Charles shouldn't borrow the money. At 14:30, we see Sprague counting out money and stamping Charles's note paid. Within seconds, he says he would loan Charles the $8 he had previously asked for, to which Charles basically says thanks, but I'm all set. 

The next scene starts at 15:16 with Mary, Laura, and Willie walking out of the schoolhouse. Laura and Willie are arguing about whether the moon affects how the fish bite. They bicker like siblings, with Laura saying everyone knows fish bite better with a full moon, and Willie saying the fish can't see the moon, so how could they know if they were hungry or not? Mary tries to convince her to let it go, but Laura digs in her heels. Ultimately, since Laura can't prove she is right, she loses her best "agey" marble to Willie, but she jokes with Mary that she will just win it back from him anyway. Knowing that Melissa and Jonathan Gilbert are real-life adopted siblings makes this scene even more hilarious. 

Season 3 - "Little Girl Lost"

When Carrie falls down an old mine shaft, the town works together to save her. Mr. Hanson allows a past hurt to cloud his judgment, which impedes rescue efforts.

Why it's my favorite from Season 3: This was another season when the choice was tough. I ultimately chose this one because, despite how hard it is to watch, it is wonderful to see the town come together to help in a time of need. The minute Charles arrives in town and tells Nels what has happened, he instructs Charles to take whatever he needs from the storeroom and sends Willie out to ring the alarm bell. The men work into the night, and just when it seems all is lost, Carl and Loudy save the day. Listening to Charles shout for Caroline and watching Caroline's eyes light up once she sees a dirt-covered Carrie and runs to her releases all the pent-up tension viewers experience, and the thrilled shouts, cheers, and hugs from the townsfolk as they surround Caroline and her child make this a must-watch episode. 

Top Five Favorite Episodes from Little House on the Prairie - Season 8

Welcome to Season 8 favorites! I am sharing my top five favorite episodes from the eighth season of Little House on the Prairie today. 

"Dark Sage"

When a stretched-too-thin Doctor Baker hires Dr. Caleb Ledoux to join his practice, he and the residents of Walnut Grove are surprised upon his arrival that the Ledoux family is Black. 

Why I like it: Little House on the Prairie didn't shy away from tough topics of its day. Here, the residents of Walnut Grove, and specifically Doctor Baker, are forced to admit to their prejudices and learn from the dangers of them. [Though Dr. Ledoux is mentioned once again during the series' run, the Ledoux family is never seen again.]

"Chicago"

Upon learning that Isaiah's son John Jr. has been killed, Charles joins him in Chicago. What at first seemed like a tragic accident, with help from the newspaper's editor-in-chief, Callahan, they discover Isaiah's son had been working on a corruption story that led to his murder. 

Why I like it: While it takes place outside of Walnut Grove and features mainly new characters, this is a well-plotted murder mystery story. It's great to see Charles and Isaiah together again, and I loved the characters of Callaghan and B.J. 

"A Christmas They Never Forgot"

While celebrating Christmas with the Ingalls family, the Wilders, the Kendalls, and Hester Sue become snowbound by a blizzard. To pass the time, they share memories of Christmases past. 

Why I like it: Keeping in mind that one must suspend belief that everyone would be thrilled over having snowfall that reached up to the top window of the little house, or how possible that would even be, Landon outdid himself with this episode. The music, the return of Mary and Adam, the vignettes from Laura, Caroline, Almanzo, and Hester Sue, and more make this one of the most memorable Christmas episodes of the series. This one and "A Christmas on Plum Creek" from Season 1 are my favorites. 

"Stone Soup"

With Charles and Almanzo away, a pregnant Laura tries to keep the Wilders' new apple orchard growing despite a heat wave.

Why I like it: A grown-up Willie teaching class and rushing off to get Doc Baker when Laura collapses strikes a chord with me. This might be the first episode where they focus on Willie as a young man instead of as a boy. It's nice to see Caroline back in the classroom teaching. 

"Days of Sunshine, Days of Shadow"

Almanzo's recovery from diphtheria is hampered by a stroke that paralyses him. The arrival of Eliza Jane delays Almanzo's progress, which causes a rift between Beth and Manly and Laura and her sister-in-law. After the birth of Rose, Eliza Jane's plans deepen the divide, but when it seems darkest, Almanzo faces some hard truths that lead to a remarkable change. 

Why I like it: This is classic Little House on the Prairie drama. With this two-part episode, Landon threw so much of what happened to the Wilders in real life at Beth and Manly and condensed it into a shortened period of time, which pushed these characters to their limits. Adding Eliza Jane to the mix added more tension. One of my favorite scenes is the exchange between Beth and Manly as he walks to her from the frame of their new house. 

Top Five Favorite Episodes from Little House on the Prairie - Season 7

Time to share my five favorite episodes from Season 7 of Little House on the Prairie.

"Laura Ingalls Wilder"

Almanzo is excited when he buys a piece of land to build a home for when he marries Laura, mortgaging it under strict terms. When Mr. Gray dams up the water supply, Manly loses his land and his crop. With no plan and no money, he decides to postpone the wedding, which causes friction between Laura and him, especially when she decides to take a job in Radner to help them get back on their feet. Meanwhile, Eliza Jane develops feelings for Harve Miller, who came to Walnut Grove to help with the farm. 

Why I like it: This is Almanzo's time to step out from under his sister's wings and into a life with Laura. I admire Laura for staying true to herself and deciding to take the job in Radner despite its consequences. Harve Miller is a character who brought out a different side to Eliza Jane. 

"Olseon versus Oleson"

The women of Walnut Grove gather together to stage a protest when their husbands won't sign the petition giving them the right to vote. 

Why I like it: This is an episode that boils down to everyone doing the right thing. Charles even admits that while he considers Caroline an equal partner, not every couple might have that arrangement, which is why he eventually agrees to sign. We also have one of the sweetest moments in Beth and Manly's early marriage days in this episode. When Laura says she feels she must join the other women at the hotel to support her mother, Almanzo asks her if she needs to leave that night, and she agrees to stay until the morning. This is one of the few episodes in Season 7 where we are reminded that they are a young couple in love. 

"Come, Let Us Reason Together"

Percival's parents visit Walnut Grove as they anticipate the birth of their first grandchild. Harriet Oleson and Benjamin Cohen argue over whether the baby will be raised Jewish or Christian, which upsets the happy couple and leads to a unique way to settle things.

Why I like it: We get some of Percival's backstory in this episode, like how he changed his name from Issac Cohen so that he could find work. We see a battle unfold that is familiar in lots of families: Mr. Cohen is afraid Percival is turning his back on this faith and that his grandchild will not be raised a Cohen. Mrs. Oleson wants her grandchild raised as a Christian. It is Nels who comes up with a compromise that everyone can live with. [Side note: The title of this episode is taken from the book of Isaiah.]

"Goodbye, Mrs. Wilder"

When Mrs. Oleson interferes with the school's curriculum, Laura abruptly resigns. She quickly ends up regretting her decision, but possibly not more than the children of Walnut Grove, who are made to wear uniforms and learn French on top of all their other subjects. 

Why I like it: I totally understand Laura in this episode. She makes a decision in haste that she gets to repent in leisure. She willingly admits to Manly that while she wishes taking care of him and the house were enough for her, they simply aren't, and without her teaching, she feels useless. Almanzo supports her, despite his stubbornness being part of the reason their engagement was called off earlier in their relationship. In the end, Laura is proven right, Nels reminds Harriet so, and Laura returns to teaching. 

"I Do, Again"

Almanzo is thrilled to learn that Laura is pregnant. Adding to the family's joy is Caroline's announcement that she is also pregnant. But when she visits Doc Baker, she learns she is likely going through menopause. Not being able to have more children makes Caroline afraid Charles will no longer see her as a whole woman. She pretends to have lost the baby, and when Charles discovers the truth, he decides to take her away on a trip to help them reconnect as a couple. 

Why I like it: Laura is excited at the thought of having a child, despite not wanting to rush into having children. As someone who has been in Caroline's shoes, it is easy to understand her feelings around the transition. Charles and Laura have a tender moment where he tells Half-pint that he knows Caroline lied to him about losing the baby, and he devises a plan to help her, which reveals his deep love and respect for his wife.

Top Five Favorite Episodes from Little House on the Prairie - Season 6

We are already on Season 6 in my list of favorite episodes from Little House on the Prairie. Seasons 6 - 8 had some wonderful episodes. Here are my favorites from Season 6.

"Back to School"

Walnut Grove welcomes new teacher, Eliza Jane Wilder, along with her younger brother, Almanzo. From the moment he pulls up in front of the restaurant, Laura Ingalls is smitten. However, Mrs. Oleson sees Almanzo as the perfect suitor for her daughter, Nellie. Jealous, Laura plays a prank on her archenemy, which backfires, and when Nellie exacts her revenge, Almanzo pays the price. 

Why I like it:

The introduction of Dean Butler's Almanzo marks a definite shift in Laura's character. Viewers witness as she hovers in the uncomfortable place between childhood and adulthood. Change comes for Nellie Oleson as well, with her parents gifting her a hotel and restaurant, which she is totally uninterested in running. This will lead to the introduction of one of my favorite characters later in the season. We see Caroline stepping in to provide for the family when Charles is injured and unable to work. Oh, and that mud fight is epic!

"Annabelle"

The circus comes to Walnut Grove, and one of the performers is a person from Nels' past. Laura struggles to ask Almanzo to the circus, and when she finds out he is taking snippy Christie Norton, she devises a plan that reveals she is still a kid at heart.

Why I like it: Exploring a character's backstory is often an interesting concept. Here, the viewer discovers that Nels has a relative he's kept a secret for less-than-noble reasons. There is this random girl who lives in town, who just happens to be courting Almanzo, but Laura puts her in her place. The circus scenes are fun.

"Preacher Takes a Wife"

Reverend Alden and the widowed Anna Craig begin courting. Their relationship is threatened by Mrs. Oleson's interference and an unexpected visit from the reverend's superior. 

Why I like it: This one comes down to two things: romance and backstory. It seems some of the men in Walnut Grove were destined to be alone: Lars Hanson, Isaiah Edwards, and Doc Baker. But in this episode, Reverend Alden has his chance at love. When Mrs. Oleson writes to his superiors, Harriet is surprised to see that a man from her past is the one sent by the church to investigate her outlandish claims. This was such a great backstory for her. 

"Wilder and Wilder"

The youngest member of the Wilder family, Perley Day, shows up in town. Unbeknownst to all, he is a liar and a thief, but Charles thinks the adventurous young man might be just the thing to get Laura's mind off the older Almanzo. After Perley Day nearly cripples Almanzo's horse, he is sent packing, and the Ingalls family helps tend to Barnum until his leg is better. 

Why I like it: So many great things happen in this episode. Perley Day sees that Laura is older than Almanzo realizes, and by the end of the episode, Manly's opinion of her begins to shift. Laura teaches the spirited Barnum how to accept the bit, much to Manly's amazement. Laura chooses a better man than her pa, which Caroline gently teases him about. How Almanzo forfeits the arm wrestling match to save his horse. The embrace between Almanzo and Laura once they knew Barnum would be okay. 

"Sweet Sixteen"

Laura earns her teaching certificate before her sixteenth birthday, so that she can teach in Curry while the regular teacher recovers. Almanzo helps Charles out by bringing her to Curry and picking her up a week later, which is enough time apart for Almanzo to realize she is no longer a little girl. Once home, Laura confides in Ma that she thinks what she has been dreaming of is finally happening between Almanzo and her, but his jealousy threatens their budding romance. 

Why I like it: Another episode with tons of wonderful moments. Laura finally becomes a teacher. Almanzo's odd reaction when he picks her up in Curry a week after dropping her off, which she credits to the high-heeled boots she bought. Eliza Jane and Almanzo's heart-to-heart talk. Laura tells Manly she has to "think" about going to the social with him. Charles and Almanzo's heart-to-heart, where he admits his feelings for Laura have changed. The touching, yet awkward, first kiss. 

Top Five Favorite Episodes from Little House on the Prairie - Season 5

Moving swiftly along to Season 5, here are my five favorite episodes from the season where the Ingalls family left Walnut Grove to live in Winoka. 

"As Long As We're Together"

The Ingalls family decides to move to Winoka, in Dakota Territory, where Mary will join Adam Kendall to run a blind school. It is a hard adjustment for them. Charles and Caroline work at the hotel, Laura is stuck babysitting her younger sisters, and the noise of the city makes it hard to sleep at night. Thankfully, their friends, the Garveys and the Olesons, arrive soon afterwards. One other bright spot is an orphan named Albert, who befriends the family. With Mary about to turn 16, Charles asks for an advance on his pay to buy her a gift, which doesn't turn out as planned.

Why I like it: Honestly, the Winoka episodes are some of my least favorite of the series, but here we see Walnut Grove friends arriving, which almost makes it tolerable. Mary and Adam are reunited, and we see Mary graduate to womanhood and become a teacher. The introduction of Albert brought a new twist to the series. 

"There's No Place Like Home"

Tensions rise as the Ingalls family struggles to work for Mr. Standish in a noisy city far from home. When Toby Noe wins big, he decides to put on a fireworks show to bring the Ingalls a bit of joy, which is quickly threatened by Standish, paving the way for the Ingalls family, the Garveys, and the Olesons to head back to Walnut Grove. They find the town in despair, and an ill and broken-down Lars Hanson, who bemoans the old glory days of the town he helped found. Working together, the residents of Walnut Grove bring the town back to life, get the school ready, and celebrate their first church service in the revitalized Walnut Grove. 

Why I like it: There is so much to love about this episode. How Caroline understands that Charles wants to go home and bring Albert with them. How Mary reassures her pa that she will be fine if they go back to Walnut Grove. The way the entire town pulls together to bring Walnut Grove back to life, and the last speech of Lars Hanson. As an aside, Mr. Hanson is a character in On the Banks of Plum Creek. He is a settler who sells land and the dugout house to Charles Ingalls before moving west. 

"The Wedding"

Caroline and Charles receive word that Mary and Adam are going to be married. Because of the expense, Ma and Pa make the decision to leave all the children at home, and they journey by train to Winoka. As they sit down to dinner with Mary and Adam, Caroline shares stories of raising children. Suddenly frightened by the prospect of two blind people needing to care for a sighted child, Mary calls off the wedding. When Susan Goodspeed is lost during a sandstorm, Mary and Adam must search for her, giving Mary the confidence she needs to proceed with the wedding.

Why I like it: Lindwood Boomer and Melissa Sue Anderson had wonderful chemistry. Anderson provides such a compelling performance. It is nice to see Charles and Caroline away from their brood, and the children back in Walnut Grove provide some comic relief. Reverend Alden showing up to marry the young couple was a nice surprise. 

 "The Lake Kezia Monster"

When Kezia fails to pay her taxes, her lake home is put up for auction. Mrs. Oleson swoops in and buys the property for a summer home, which her husband wants no part of. When Mrs. Oleson forces a  homeless Kezia to be their servant in exchange for room and board, Laura, Albert, and Andy devise a plan to scare Mrs. Oleson off the property. 

Why I like it: This is one of the few silly episodes I enjoy. This set up Mrs. Oleson as the villain again, with her husband helping the Ingalls kids to scare Nellie, Willie, and Harriet off the property. It's not an episode that makes a lot of sense, but it comes right after the very emotional episode, "The Sound of Children," where Mary miscarries her first child, so it feels good to have a lighter episode here. 

"Mortal Mission"

Several residents of Walnut Grove fall gravely ill when they eat mutton infected with anthrax. Doctor Baker turns the blind school into a hospital, so he can care for people in what seems to be a losing battle. Charles and Jonathan race against time to bring medical supplies back to Walnut Grove, but are waylaid by a down-on-his-luck man who robs them and takes them hostage. 

Why I like it: Episodes about true hardships fascinate me. The episode features several great scenes. Mary asking Doc Baker how many more people will die, Harriet thinking Nels has died and them declaring their love for each other, the intense grief of Seth Berwick after his son dies, the wife of Hank Slade threatening him with a rifle to untie Charles and Jonathan so they can give medicine to their ailing son, and Doc Baker breaking down and saying to Hester Sue he is so tired, but that he is thankful that it is over. Ketty Lester concludes this moving episode by singing the gospel song, "Stand By Me."

Top Five Favorite Episodes from Little House on the Prairie - Season 4

Here is a peek at some of my favorite episodes from Season 4 of Little House on the Prairie.

"Here Come the Brides"

Adam Simms and his son, Luke, arrive in Walnut Grove. Nellie is quickly smitten with the barefooted pig farmer who has joined the one-room schoolhouse, much to her mother's dismay. Meanwhile, Adam and Miss Beadle's relationship blossoms into love. When Nellie and Luke run off to elope, Adam, Miss Beadle, and the Olesons race off to stop them before it's too late. 

Why I like it: While not a huge fan of silly Little House episodes, this is one of the best. The Olesons provide a ton of comic relief, and it's nice to see love develop between two mature characters. My favorite quote from this episode comes from Mrs. Oleson: "Nels, make her a widow." 

"Whisper County"

Mary gets her first teaching job in a backwoods community ruled by the infamous Miss Peel. A superstitious woman who opposes education, her lies and accusations drive Mary away. After a conversation with Pa, Mary returns to Whisper County to confront Miss Peel. 

Why I like it: Melissa Sue Anderson's performance in this episode is amazing. How enjoyable to see Mary return and stand up for herself, creating positive change in this community. It's nice to see an occasional episode that takes place mostly outside of Walnut Grove. 

"I Remember, I Remember"

As Caroline awaits Charles's return on their anniversary, she shares memories with her girls of growing up and falling in love with him. 

Why I like it: We don't always get a glimpse into Charles and Caroline's relationship before they were Pa and Ma. Loved Matthew Labyorteaux as a young Charles, and the actress who played a young Caroline was wonderful. 

"A Most Precious Gift"

Caroline discovers she is pregnant again, but her fixation on wanting to give Charles a son creates tension between them. In desperation, she visits a fortune teller. When Eva "Beadle" Simms and her husband welcome a son, it causes additional stress to Caroline, so Charles sends the girls to stay with the Garveys so he and Caroline can be alone to sort things out. 

Why I like it: Considering how episodic television was back then, the characters rarely flashbacked to their pasts. In this episode, we see Caroline and Charles discuss the loss of Charles Frederick. This episode resonates more deeply as a wife and mother than it did when I was a child. It is easier to feel Caroline's distress and appreciate what she went through. 

"I'll Be Waving As You Drive Away"

When Mary struggles with eye fatigue, Charles brings her to the doctor. They hope a new pair of glasses will do the trick. When they don't seem to work for long, they return to the doctor, who tells Charles that the scarlet fever Mary had when she was younger weakened her eye muscles and that she will eventually lose her sight. Charles grapples with how to tell Mary she is going blind, and once it happens, Caroline and he make the difficult decision to send Mary away to a school for the blind. 

Why I like it: This is one of the most memorable episodes of the series. Blending fact and fiction, Landon wrote a superb two-parter that tested Mary Ingalls more than she ever had been tested before. What was also well done was how the episode showed the impact of how Mary's going blind and her eventual loss of sight impacted the family as a whole. Melissa Sue Anderson was nominated for an Emmy Award that year. 

Top Five Favorite Episodes from Little House on the Prairie - Season 3

Let's take a peek at some of my favorite episodes from Season 3 of Little House on the Prairie.

"The Collection"

After rescuing an ill Reverend Alden on his way back to Walnut Grove, Caleb Hodgekiss decides he will pretend to be a minister on a charitable errand to help the people of Gray's Corner. The townsfolk of Walnut Grove welcome him, unaware of his devious plot.

Why I like it: It's hard not to like an episode featuring Johnny and June Cash, but what makes this such a special episode is how the kindness and generosity of the people in Walnut Grove impact Caleb and help him turn over a new leaf. 

"The Race"

Thrilled to have Bunny back, Laura plans to enter the Hero Township horse race. With Nellie upset about losing Bunny, and to spite her husband's punishment for Nellie lying about being hurt, Mrs. Oleson buys her a thoroughbred to compete against Laura and Bunny, putting up a treasured family heirloom as the prize. 

Why I like it: It is nice to see Bunny back where she belongs. The two oldest Ingalls girls have some nice scenes in this episode, and Willie is hilarious. 

"Little Girl Lost"

When Carrie falls down an old mine shaft, the town works together to save her. Mr. Hanson allows a past hurt to cloud his judgment, which could impede rescue efforts.

Why I like it: This is such a dramatic episode. I remember watching it as a child, but it plays differently on my emotions now that I am a mother. The look on Caroline's face when they tell her it is hopeless---I felt that deep in my soul. Grassle gave an amazing performance in this episode. It is also neat to learn some of Hanson's backstory. 

"Blizzard"

On Christmas Eve, Miss Beadle lets the children out early when it begins to snow, unaware that a blizzard is headed their way. Doctor Baker sets up the schoolhouse as a clinic as the men go out to search for missing children. 

Why I like it: I enjoy episodes that create drama based on real-life hazards of living on the prairie. It is believed that Landon drew inspiration from "The Children's Blizzard" of 1888. This episode also has one of the sweetest Willie moments. 

"Little Women"

When the schoolchildren decide to put on skits from famous books for their parents, Mrs. Oleson soon takes over, casting Nellie in the starring role in Little Women. Meanwhile, Ginny Clark, a classmate, has befriended the kindly Mr. Mayfield. Although he would love to have a closer relationship with Ginny's widowed mother, Mrs. Clark shuts him down, forcing Ginny to take drastic measures. 

Why I like this: Mrs. Oleson is over the top even for her. She takes over writing the play, makes Nellie the star, and even brings in a famous wig maker so Nellie can have dark hair. What ends up stealing the show, however, is the sacrifice Ginny makes to show her mother how much she loves her. 

Top Five Favorite Episodes from Little House on the Prairie - Season 2

 Today, I will be sharing my favorite episodes from Season 2 of Little House on the Prairie. 

"Remember Me, Parts 1 & 2"

The Widow Sanderson discovers she is dying, so she tasks Charles Ingalls with finding a home for her three children: John Junior, Carl, and Alicia. After her passing, Grace Snider and Isaiah Edwards care for the children while Charles searches for people to adopt them. Just when Charles loses hope of keeping the Sanderson children together, an unexpected solution arises. 

Why I like it: Patricia Neal is an amazing actress. This also brings together two wonderful characters, creating a new family for them and the Sanderson children.

"His Father's Son"

Trying to connect with his adopted son, John Jr., Isaiah buys him a rifle for his birthday and takes him hunting. A book and poetry-loving young man, when he pens a letter to Isaiah explaining how he feels, he doesn't get the reaction that he desires, which leads him to believe Isaiah doesn't care. While hunting, Isaiah is attacked by a bear, but John can't bring himself to shoot it. This leads to an unexpected revelation and a new understanding between Isaiah and his oldest son. 

Why I like it: Mr. Edwards was portrayed as a happy bachelor for so long that it's wonderful to see him in his new role as father. True to life, there are bound to be misunderstandings along the way. 

"Matter of Faith"

Left alone while Charles takes the girls on a camping trip, Caroline develops an infection from a cut on her leg. She makes a tough decision that ultimately saves her life.

Why I like it: We don't get many episodes that focus solely on Caroline. This episode displays Grassle's talent and shows what a strong woman of faith Caroline is. 

"For My Lady"

Charles's work for the Widow Thurman gets Harriet's tongue wagging, which causes tension between Charles and Caroline. Because of some white lies Charles tells to hide a secret he is planning, Caroline worries the rumors might have some truth. 

Why I like it: This is one of those episodes that reminds us not to jump to conclusions or to think we know what's going on if we haven't heard it from the person themselves. 

"Centennial"

America is turning a hundred years old, and the townsfolk of Walnut Grove are determined to celebrate. But when their taxes are raised, they all become bitter and angry, until one of their own reminds them of the "Land of Freedoms" and how great it is. 

Why I like it: This is an episode about having a different perspective. No country's history is without blemish. No government run by flawed humans is perfect. 

Top Five Favorite Episodes from Little House on the Prairie - Season 1

We all have our favorite Little House on the Prairie episodes. As we discuss favorite episodes, I will break them down by season and share my top five favorites, starting with Season 1.

"Harvest of Friends"

After settling in Walnut Grove, Charles takes on a job with Hanson at the mill to pay for the lumber to build a new house. When he is rejected for credit at Olseon's Mercantile, he enters into a deal with Liam O'Neil, owner of the Feed and Seed. When Charles is injured on a family picnic, he can no longer finish the job. Thanks to his generous help during his short time in Walnut Grove, the town's residents step in to lend a hand.

Why I like it: This sets up most of the town as we know it in the first season: Reverend Alden, Doctor Baker, the Olesons, and Hanson. We see the Ingalls family settle in. We expect that Mrs. Oleson will pit herself against them in the name of good business. And we quickly discover that this is a town of mostly good people.

"If I Should Wake Before I Die"

After the death of her dear friend, Amy Hearn decides the only way her family will visit her is if they think she has died. She strongarms Doctor Baker and the Ingalls family into throwing an eightieth birthday party disguised as a wake. 

Why I like it: This episode reminds us to cherish the older generation and to keep family close. We can't get so busy that we forget to spend time and make memories with the ones who mean the most to us.

"School Mom"

Caroline Ingalls steps in to teach school when Miss Beadle is injured. She takes extra time to help an older boy, Abel, learn how to read. But when Mrs. Oleson interferes, all her work is ruined.

Why I like it: Caroline truly shines in this episode, showcasing her tender and caring nature. This episode, like others in the series, focuses on tolerance and acceptance of those who are differently abled than others. 

"Christmas at Plum Creek"

The Ingalls family spends their first holiday season in Walnut Grove, secretly planning special gifts for each other. 

Why I like it: It is so fun to watch them trying to hide what they are doing from each other. While one part of this episode is sad, overall, this is a playful episode about the excitement and spirit of the season. 

"Survival"

On their way back from Mankato, a late blizzard strands the Ingalls family in a deserted cabin with little food and supplies. Forced to hunt between storms, Charles is saved by Sioux Chief Jack Lame Horse. Being hunted by Marshal Jim Anders, Lame Horse has managed to evade capture, but helping Charles puts his life in danger.

Why I like it: I appreciate the episodes that focus on the hardships pioneers faced. This also has an excellent lesson surrounding the treatment of Native Americans and the bigotry and prejudice they endured. 

Happy Birthday, Laura!

Everyone's favorite pioneer girl is celebrating her 149th birthday today. Wow! How amazing is it that someone from the past has touched so many lives.

While I often share excerpts from the Little House books to celebrate, today I want to share my favorite Little House on the Prairie episodes from each season, because if Laura had never written such wonderful books, this now classic television show would never have been produced and I would never have met so many wonderful people.

Season 1 - "Christmas at Plum Creek" 

As Christmas approaches, members of the Ingalls family find themselves short on cash but full of secrets as they work hard to make the holiday special for each other.

Season 2 - "A Matter of Faith"

Caroline's decision to stay home alone while Charles takes the girls on a trip nearly proves fatal when a scratch on her leg becomes infected.

Season 3 - "Little Girl Lost"

Carrie falls down a mine shaft while tagging along with her sisters during a school assignment.

Season 4  - "Here Come the Brides"

Love is in the air when Nellie Oleson falls for pig farmer Luke Simms and Miss Beadle finds herself attracted to the boy's father.

Season 5 - "There's No Place Like Home"

After trying to live in the city of Winoka, the Ingallses, the Garveys, and the Olesons head home to Walnut Grove to rebuild the town.

Season 6 - "He Loves Me, He Loves Me Not"

When Charles tells Almanzo he and Laura must wait until she turns 18 to marry, Almanzo forces Laura to decide between him and her father.

Season 7 - "Laura Ingalls Wilder"

When Almanzo's crop is destroyed by drought, he loses the land he was going to build a house on for Laura. Their wedding is postponed and their fighting threatens to end their engagement.

Season 8 - "A Christmas They Never Forgot"

The Ingalls family and Hester Sue celebrate Christmas together by sharing stories of Christmases past.

Also Season 8 - "Days of Sunshine, Days of Shadow"

Pregnant with her first child, Laura is distraught when Manly turns ill and she finds out they are deeply in debt. Things go from bad to worse when a stroke paralyzes Almanzo. His sister's visit to Walnut Grove only makes matters worse.

Season 9 - "A Child with No Name" 

Almanzo and Laura's son dies and she blames Doc Baker, which leads to the entire town turning against him.

What are some of your LHOP favorites?