After a mere year in America, the life offered to Norwegian immigrants, Ida and Björn, is proved to be nothing but an illusion. Money is tight, and with winter’s arrival, Björn travels north, into the lumber camps, seeking employment.

Left on her own, with her young son and unborn baby depending on her, Ida is determined to make it to spring and her husband’s return—but she’s determined to do it alone. Will her insistence to do so break her down as troubles cross her path? Or can she learn to accept the kindness of her neighbors and have a place for her husband to return to?