Ep 28. Instant Family

In Green Acres season 3 episode 28, titled "Instant Family," Oliver and Lisa are tasked with taking care of three children whom they have never met before. The kids, who are the grandchildren of a friend of Oliver's mother, are dropped off at the Ziffels' farm while their father goes to Europe for business.

Initially, Oliver and Lisa are excited to have the children stay with them, but they soon realize that they are in over their heads. The children, ranging in age from five to fourteen, have completely different personalities and interests, and they struggle to keep them occupied and happy.

The youngest child, Billy, is full of energy and constantly needs attention, while the oldest, Karen, is moody and withdrawn. The middle child, Tommy, is a troublemaker who delights in causing chaos and mischief.

As if dealing with the children isn't enough, Oliver and Lisa also have to contend with the disapproving looks and comments from their neighbors, who believe that they are in no shape to take care of a family. Even Eb, who usually follows Oliver's lead, voices his skepticism about the situation.

Despite all the challenges they face, Oliver and Lisa try their best to make the most of the situation. They take the kids on a picnic, plan a talent show, and even teach them how to make pottery. However, things take a turn for the worse when Tommy runs away and Karen is caught stealing from the grocery store.

After a heart-to-heart talk with the children, Oliver and Lisa realize that they have been treating them like a burden instead of a blessing. They apologize for their behavior and promise to do better. Together, they come up with a plan to make the rest of the children's stay a positive one.

In the end, the children's father returns from Europe and thanks Oliver and Lisa for taking care of them. He is impressed with how much the children have learned and grown during their time on the farm, and even offers to let them keep Billy for a few more weeks. Oliver and Lisa happily agree, knowing that they have truly become an instant family.

"Instant Family" is a heartwarming episode that shows the power of love and patience when dealing with children. Oliver and Lisa may have been out of their comfort zone, but they were able to rise to the occasion and provide a memorable experience for the children. It's a reminder that family is not always defined by blood, but rather by the bonds we create with those around us.