All Creatures Great and Small, Season 3 Episode 2, “Honeymoon’s Over,” pairs hijinks with a reflection on adjustment. This is a new era for this crew, and they are facing a brave new world. Things get pretty sexy for a PBS show, and it’s nothing less than charming. The wedding was just the beginning of a beautiful life together that’s just getting started. 

Helen (Rachel Shenton) and James (Nicholas Ralph) are adjusting to wedded bliss, and it’s nothing less than adorable. The fact that this is sometimes like watching one’s grandparents is oddly endearing. They’re so obviously in love. However, it’s never over-played. This is an honest look at the first days and weeks of a marriage, particularly when living in a crowded house of chaos. 

Perhaps the bigger adjustment is Siegfried’s (Samuel West) adjustment to James being a partner. James isn’t the only one adjusting to his own marriage. Sigfried’s jealousy is hilarious and heartwarming to watch. He clearly thought he’d have a bit more time having James to himself. This is a moment for Siegfried to reflect on how much help he needs, and how much he relies on James.

Mrs. Hall (Anna Madeley), as always, comes in with the wisdom Sigfried so desperately needs. Even though she has her own budding romance, she always has the time to keep her house running smoothly. She probably knows Siegfried more than he knows himself. She’s certainly more self-aware than he could ever be. 

All Creatures Great and Small, Season 3 Episode 2, “Honeymoon’s Over,” Tristan (Callum Woodhouse) has an enemies-to-lovers romance brewing with Florence, the daughter of a rival vet. This could be the start of something beautiful. Tristan also goes on quite the journey this episode, getting his professional act together. It’s great seeing James show off his leadership skills, and support Tristan to make better choices. Hopefully, this is a trajectory Tristan can stay on. 

Finally, in a show that has given viewers plenty of quirky and loveable viewers, Kate the cattle farmer is an absolute stand-out. In barely a few words, the character manages to distinguish herself as one of the most relatable and loveable characters this show has ever had. Her heartbreaking reflection on her own loneliness is all too real, as is her grief for the loss of someone who’s still alive. Kate deserves the best, and she should absolutely come back more often, hopefully in happier circumstances. 

As the world around the characters of All Creatures Great and Small gets more chaotic, so too does this little family just trying to do some good to animals. The series continues to incorporate James WIght’s actual legacy, by kicking off the character’s interest in the TB testing program. New dynamics are forming, and it’s just enjoyable to watch. There will surely be more headbutting to come. For now, though, this little show that could is just getting started. 

All Creatures Great and Small airs Sundays at 9/8c on PBS.