Lets discuss, shall we?

But more on that later.)

My kids are the reason why I wrote the books.

Jon & Kate Plus Eight | Once, this was an adorably simple series about the challenges of raising a huge family: saving money, fighting stains, potty training. Then, the mundane squabbles

Credit: TLC

America, I can hear you scoffing!

Of course, the trip wasnt just about escapism for Jon.

While there he worked with the National Ability Center helping disabled children experience the slopes.

Back in Pennsylvania, Kate prepared her own birthday cake, but not before a surprise came her way.

Why all the quotation marks around surprise, you ask?

Also, the surprise itself, a visit toAce of Cakes Charm City Cakes (jealous!)

NEXT: How about some delightful chaos?

That said, theres a reason why that place has charm in the name.

The Ace of Cakes crew is a seriously delightful bunch.

(Seriously, dont you just want to hug the guy?

Hug him and then eat cake.)

But, herein lies another reason I find this surprise bogus.

A man after my heart).

Heck, she had to look in the other direction when they finger-painted.

Lets hope that sentiment overrules the dark cloud hanging over this new season.

But all was back to cute when the kids willingly obeyed Duffs orders of No more yelling!

Oh, Duff, anything for you.

So long, warm fuzzies of the previous five minute.

Welcome back, painful reminder!

What did you think of this episode?

Were you mad Jon didnt stay home for her birthday?

Or were you just pleased he was off in Utah doing something for others (and himself)?

He even took the kids into the woods to seek out deer.

); just dont go into the woods.

Jon took her to the pediatrician and Alexis was stoked that the cure for her ailment was popsicles.

And who could blame her, really?

Trying to one-up their treat-recipient sister, Aaden bragged, We got a strawberry in our yogurt!

Na na na na na na!

Alexis deadpans, Thats not fun.

Quite possibly my all-time favorite moment of this show.

Clearly shes not ready to fully come to grips with it.

Did you like this episode as well, or had you had your fill after theAce of Cakesepisode?

Were you totally impressed by Alexis resilience and all-around sass?

Are you thinking the season is looking up now, or is it still heading down a bad path?