Annabelle

There were several interesting stories in this episode.

First, we have the Laura-Almonzo storyline. She really wants to invite Almanzo to the circus that's coming to town, but she's afraid he'll reject her. Opportunity arises when Albert gives her an extra ticket in a way that annoys her. But when she finally gets the nerve to ask Almanzo, he turns her down because he already has a date. Laura is upset when she learns it's the stuck-up Christie Norton, whom she's making a dress for! As time goes by, Laura decides Christie needs a lesson and the events that "unravel" show just how jealous Laura really is of anybody trying to steal her man!

Another plot is Laura and Albert playing parts in the Circus. They meet a nice man, London, and wonder about a quiet, sad clown. What they learn is a bit surprising.

But the main plot is Nels discovering that the sister he never talks about is in town. She is the fat lady. Her being fat is what put a wedge between the brother and sister several years ago. Harriet is very, very rude in this episode. She makes fun of the fat lady from the very beginning and doesn't stop even after learning that she's related to her! Even though she was put in her place at the end, it's still dis-heartening to see how she acts - as if her world was coming to an end!

The personality of Mrs. Oleson seems to only worsen over time. I can't help but to really hate her...