Rainbow Dash was finally able to get time off for a vacation, but on her three days off at the beach, somepony called in sick at the lighthouse sticking her with the boring task. But when a ship appears on the horizon, things get interesting.

A misunderstanding by Pinkie Pie leads to Rarity questioning a salad, a number of small changes, and Twilight hiding under her covers.

With Sweet Apple Acres reduced to a barren wasteland and Ponyville suffering through hunger and freezing temperatures, Applejack wanders in a blisteringly cold night and reflects upon the 'gift' their princesses are giving them.