The kids meet a medium who claims to speak to their dead parents, whose parenting from beyond leads Joe to a close encounter with the spirit world.

Joe, a recovered alcoholic, becomes involved with a kid with a drinking problem: Nick's old girlfriend.

When the phone service is cut off, Joe pays a visit to Ma Bell and discovers a huge unpaid bill, with significant calls to 976-sexy lines. (This episode introduces Roger, the househusband next door.)

Joe brings an old merchant marine buddy hone for a visit. Everyone gets along terrifically, until Mickey learns the true relationship between Joe and the kids—and wants to be cut in on Joe's ""sweet deal.""

Joe goes head to head with the family's social worker when Nick is arrested for vandalism.

Chris' desire to join a scout troop requires Joe to occasionally chaperone the scouts. Unfortunately, Chris' teacher used to bring Joe food when he was homeless. When a homeless-looking Joe is Chris' show and tell project, the teacher learns a lesson too.

Nick gets a construction job for the summer and decides he likes the money so much he wants to drop out of high school. Joe challenges him to attend night school where Joe will complete his own high school education

Holly decides to help her pregnant friend raise her child. Joe teaches the girls the joys of parenthood.