And Maggie Makes Three is a highlight of season 6 and the series in general because here the show realizes some of its potential. The series, despite abundant dysfunctional family themes- here Homer in the past is miserable to learn Marge is pregnant with Maggie- also managed to have heart, and some of the best episodes are ones that pull at our heart strings as well as tickle our funny bones.
This may not be the funniest episode. The best joke may be how Homer finds out Marge is pregnant. There is at least one potential plot hole- how does Homer not notice Marge is pregnant? And, why do Bart and Lisa need to be told this story when it only happened 1-2 years ago? And, why is Ruth Powers at Marge's house a year before she moved to Springfield? But the plot of Homer leaving the power plant to work his dream job in a bowling alley is nice- we see how Homer finds happiness. Homer is devastated to learn Marge is pregnant because his dream job doesn't pay well enough to take care of a third child. Then Homer's attitude changes when Maggie is born and Homer instantly loves her. The end, where Homer decorates his office with Maggie's baby pictures (because that's where he needs the most cheering up) is among The Simpsons' most touching moments.
This may not be the funniest episode. The best joke may be how Homer finds out Marge is pregnant. There is at least one potential plot hole- how does Homer not notice Marge is pregnant? And, why do Bart and Lisa need to be told this story when it only happened 1-2 years ago? And, why is Ruth Powers at Marge's house a year before she moved to Springfield? But the plot of Homer leaving the power plant to work his dream job in a bowling alley is nice- we see how Homer finds happiness. Homer is devastated to learn Marge is pregnant because his dream job doesn't pay well enough to take care of a third child. Then Homer's attitude changes when Maggie is born and Homer instantly loves her. The end, where Homer decorates his office with Maggie's baby pictures (because that's where he needs the most cheering up) is among The Simpsons' most touching moments.