The Braverman family gathers for a family portrait before Haddie departs for college, while Kristina, Adam and Max have a hard time digesting the new change. Meanwhile, Julia and Joel struggle to adjust to their newly adopted son's behavior and worry about their family's future. Newlyweds Jasmine and Crosby disagree on the spiritual beliefs they should teach Jabbar. Mark proves his commitment to Sarah by altering a Braverman tradition, while she attempts to prove her worth as an assistant to photographer Hank Rizzoli. Also, Amber navigates a new job at The Luncheonette.
As the family adapts to their new son, Julia communicates her love in an unusual way to Victor. Meanwhile Crosby and Jasmine work as a couple to add structure and boundaries to their marriage. Also, Sarah's new boss Hank unexpectedly helps her understand Drew's feelings. And Kristina convinces Adam to fill a missing void in the household and receives news that may change her life forever.
Kristina needs to go through surgery and worries about her own fears turning to Adam and the family for emotional support while Max becomes obsessed about a vending machine that has been removed from his school. The Braverman family starts considering the notion that it has become time for Zeek to stop driving. Sarah is surprised by the outcome after confronting her boss.
Jasmine and Crosby work as a parenting unit to teach Jabbar an emotional lesson earlier than expected which may change the family dynamic. Despite Adam's reservations, Kristina encourages Max to extend himself even though she may be too preoccupied to help him. Sarah becomes more sensitive to her new boss Hank while entertaining his daughter, and Zeek finds a potential friend in young Ryan York. Victor attempts an after school activity and gives Julia and Joel a glimpse of their future family.
Kristina divulges her health news to the family, who rally around her. Meanwhile mounting anxiety and a work incident force Julia to prioritize her life and make a huge decision and Joel becomes nervous for Victor's performance at his first baseball game. Sarah is caught in a sensitive moment with Hank and demands a conversation. Also, Crosby questions his ownership share in the Luncheonette.
Kristina is devastated upon learning that Max has to give his speech in his bid for class president on the same day as her surgery while Adam fights to contain his nervous energy. Sarah's decision to move the family into Mark's apartment doesn't sit well with Drew. Meanwhile, Joel is concerned for Julia's health as she struggles to be a 'super mom'. Elsewhere, Ryan asks Amber on a date.
Adam and Kristina struggle to balance the pressures of daily life combined with her ongoing treatment. Camille and Crosby take on additional responsibility to alleviate the couple's burdens. Amber and Ryan's relationship develops causing Sarah and Zeek to be concerned. Zeek knows too much about Ryan's past and worries about his granddaughter. Meanwhile, Julia continues to focus on Victor's happiness and how to better connect with her new son. Drew tries to connect with Amy after their recent break up.
Crosby and Jasmine continue to adjust to life as a married couple as they organize an event for Jabbar's school. Amber learns more about Ryan's past during a spontaneous road trip. Adam and Kristina plan a sleepover for Max. Meanwhile, Julia and Joel try to accommodate the differing needs of Victor and Sydney. Sarah and Mark encounter a parenting dilemma that sparks questions about their relationship
Julia adjusts to her new role as a stay at home mom while supporting Joel's ambitions. Crosby encounters a disruptive neighbor that may threaten the future of the Luncheonette. Sarah and Mark disagree about parenting and relationship issues. Max is forced to make a difficult decision as the new student council President while Kristina and Adam encourage him to take advantage of new experiences. Amber tries to help Ryan with his career.
Sarah puts her energy into helping Hank (Ray Romano) mend his relationship with his family, leaving Mark increasingly impatient with his status in Sarah's life. Julia is concerned with Victor's frustration with school and seeks advice from Kristina on how to provide encouragement. Joel reluctantly hires Ryan on his construction site despite Ryan's lack of experience. Crosby and Adam enter a legal battle to save the Luncheonette while attempting to record an album for Academy Award winning musician Glen Hansard.
The holiday incites a mix of emotions as Adam and Kristina experience a health scare while Crosby and Jasmine celebrate their first Christmas together as a family. Sarah is torn between her feelings for Mark and her evolving relationship with Hank. Amber and Ryan face challenges in their relationship. Meanwhile, Zeek helps to restore belief in a childhood hero.
Jasmine and Crosby help a family member who is experiencing money problems. Kristina surprises Adam with a new look and a spontaneous night on the town. Sarah and Hank experience an interesting evening together. Meanwhile, Victor is disappointed after Julia gives him news about his mother.
Drew and Amy receive news that will forever change their relationship, leading Mark to express his concerns to Sarah. Adam and Kristina are presented with new parenting dilemmas as they help Max navigate through life as a teenager. Crosby is growing increasingly impatient with his mother-in-law Renee causing conflict with Jasmine. Victor (is confrontational towards Julia and Joel causing them to question their parenting abilities.
As Victor's adoption deadline draws near, Julia and Joel contemplate the long term effects of this decision. Renee oversteps her boundaries and intrudes on Crosby and Jasmine. Upon advice offered by Zeek and Amber, Ryan seeks to make amends with Joel. Meanwhile, Mark and Sarah discuss their relationship, concerning Hank. Kristina (Monica Potter) supports Max with a unique campaign.
Jasmine and Crosby plan an anniversary get away and receive exciting news. Kristina and Adam prepare for the next phase of her treatment. Drew learns the results of his college applications. Amber and Ryan discuss the future of their relationship. Joel (Sam Jaeger) and Julia plan an event for the entire Braverman family. Meanwhile, Sarah is forced to make a decision about her relationships with Mark and Hank.