Original subtitles

[♪♪♪]

[birds singing]

[♪♪♪]

[hedger buzzing]

[chirping]

[cheeping]

[shouting over hedger] Hi!

Excuse me! Good morning!

Um! Excuse me? Hello?

Hello!

-Hi! -[hedger stops]

Did you say something?

Yes. Hi. Uh, this tree--

it was not supposed to be trimmed,

'cause there's a bird's nest in it, right here,

and the little chicks, they shouldn't

have to fly the nest before they're ready.

So, you want me to leave it?

That would be great.

Thank you.

[relieved sigh]

Good morning, little birdies!

♪ Good morning! ♪

It's time to get up...

[curtain swishes]

Oh, no! Turn off the lights.

[laughs] It's the sun, Morgan,

and believe me, I wish I had that kind of power.

Our mornings would go much smoother.

Come on, once college starts,

you won't be able to catch a ride

with your super-cool mom.

You mean my incredibly-strict former English teacher?

Hey!

You are the one who asked to use the art room this summer

to finish your Junior Art Collective project,

and "your former English teacher"

got you permission, remember?

How's that going, by the way?

I still have a few weeks to figure it out.

Okay, well...

riding or biking? I can't be late.

I don't need to give my co-workers

another reason to whisper behind my back.

Fine, I'm up!

But your co-workers need to get a life.

They mean well-- you know that.

Well, some of them.

Rise and shine! We're leaving in 20.

[♪♪♪]

[♪♪♪]

Oh! Looks like someone's slacking on the job.

Says the man who rolls in at 10:35 A.M.

Oh, is it that early?

But, wow,

you're looking very refreshed, Chris.

[chuckles] Thank you, John.

It is the beauty of senior management--

something you would know about

if you would take my advice and apply!

Come on, give it a shot.

I could use your Ph.D. on my team.

I never got my Ph.D., remember?

Yes, I do. Sorry.

-We had that conversation. -Yeah. Sore spot, sorry.

-Yeah. -Your expertise, then.

And give up on the dream?

You mean

birding against your ex to win some local bird-a-thon trophy?

Is that the dream? 'Cause, yeah.

Okay, well, my ex aside--

the big dream is to win...

so I can...

get the prestige push.

Oh, "prestige". Yeah.

Do you mean press?

-Well, yeah, that too. -Mm.

So I can start my own guiding business.

[sighs] You're obsessed.

Look, I know it's hard for you to understand,

but I gotta give it one last shot.

Otherwise... [sighs deeply]

...I'm all-in...

...here.

Guess I gotta be all-in somewhere, right?

I can't keep straddling both.

All right, James Bond,

if you complete your mission, then great--

get after it,

but if you don't,

I'm coming after you.

You fact-checked me, didn't you?

Yeah. Google confirmed your proclamation

that the real James Bond was, indeed, a birder.

Thank you very much!

Leave it to Ian Fleming to make birding cool.

I wouldn't go that far.

[sighing]

But I am pulling for ya.

I appreciate it.

Back to work!

No favoritism here.

And this is your final assignment

for the summer term...

so, I want you to pick a novel that explores a complex theme.

It can be "the American Dream,"

social injustice,

the nature of good-versus-evil.

It's up to you,

but whatever you choose,

I want it to spark something.

Speak to this next chapter-- your next chapter in life.

Basically, just let it be more than an assignment, okay?

-[bell ringing] -And have a great weekend!

It is gorgeous out there!

Bye.

Great work on that project.

Bye, guys.

[sighs]

[gasps] Hey, you!

Pizza Friday-- I was thinking

we could bring back the Hawaiian for old times' sake--

what do you say?

I'm going to the movies with some friends, remember?

I do not remember you saying that.

Sorry. I thought I did.

They're picking me up from here.

We're going shopping and then to the movies.

No, but that's okay.

Don't worry.

I just have barely seen you all week.

We live together.

You know what I mean-- but there's always tomorrow.

Just text me

so I know when you'll be coming home, okay?

'Kay.

[♪♪♪]

-Celeste, wait up! -Hi.

I was just talking about you-- or we were.

Yeah? Was it good or bad?

I was talking to my cousin, Doug--

you remember Doug, right?

No, sorry. Should I?

But I'm pretty sure I told you about him.

Not ringing any bells.

Well, he's also going through

a super-recent, and really unfortunate,

divorce.

Mine wasn't that recent.

Yeah, but a year isn't that long either--

especially when they say

it takes twice as long to get over someone--

or is it half the time?

Considering we were together for 22 years,

let's hope it's the latter.

[giggles] Either way, he wants to meet you.

Not before she meets my BFF from college, Andrea.

Are you trying to set up Alan-- again?

He is a very successful dentist.

A little arrogant, sure,

but you didn't respond to my text.

Oh! Oh. Layla, I'm so sorry.

I meant to.

I've just been very busy with-- you know.

-No. -Just...

helping Morgan get ready for college.

There's so many decisions to make.

She's got so many meal-plan options.

There's vegan, paleo, keto.

You'd be surprised how many there-- oh!

Eva! There you are!

So sorry to keep you waiting.

What are you talking about? You weren't.

You are so understanding. I know we're already late.

We've gotta go,

but thank you for thinking of me,

and, uh, we'll talk soon!

[hushed] Just keep walking!

-'Kay, bye! -Text me!

I'll talk to you about Doug!

Alan.

[♪♪♪]

[indistinct cafe chatter]

Thanks for the afternoon pick-me-up.

Thank you for the rescue earlier!

Ooh. I wish it was more propositional than pitying,

this time.

And it's hard to say which one I prefer.

I mean, the dentist--

just think how white your teeth would be.

Very funny. You're lucky you're my best friend.

I know!

So, what are we doing this weekend?

Ooh...

Should we grab a drink, or do yoga?

Unless you have plans?

My only plans are to organize my garage.

What?

It really needs it!

Okay, no.

Love you, Celeste,

but you need to get out there, like, now.

Please don't say "date."

I don't care if it's speed-dating

or skydiving or waterpainting--

you just need to get out of the house,

and try something new, and have some fun.

Organizing is fun!

No!

I do not accept that.

Fine, but what if I don't remember what is anymore?

What's fun?

Yeah! I haven't asked myself that question in decades.

[laughs] That's because

you're 100% focused on your family unit.

And yet, Rick cheated anyway.

[fumes] You know how I feel about that!

[Celeste] It's a whole new chapter.

Yes! This is your time now.

You need to do something a little crazy.

You know, just wake yourself up. It's time--

-[phone reminder dings] -...which is why-- oh.

Oh, no. Oh, no-no-no-no-no-no-no!

I thought that was later.

What was later?

[gasps] The spa party--

which sounds like it would be super-relaxing,

but it's actually this really intense fundraiser

from my grandpa's community center,

and I can't miss it.

Why would you miss it?

Birding.

You're... birding?

[laughs]

Why is that so unbelievable?

Just you! Like,

quiet, notebook, binoculars kind of thing...

Well, I'm supposed to be,

as a favor to this really nice guy

from my pickleball group.

It's an annual contest,

but, you know, now-- [phone rings]--

This is Eva.

Yes, I just got the reminder,

and I will absolutely be at your fundraiser.

Do you mind confirming our table?

Oh, sure, I'll hold.

Oh, I feel terrible.

Just get someone to fill in for you.

I'm pretty sure you're not a birding expert.

It's just for a day.

You should totally take my spot!

Yeah. I think they need to be paired up.

I don't know if it's, like,

an accountability thing or something.

That is not what I meant.

Why would I do that?

You love birds and animals!

Oh, and my fr-- Hmm?

Yes, it's a table reserved for a group.

It should be under "Mount Muir".

Yes.

My friend John desperately needs a partner

because his girlfriend--

who's apparently this, like,

beautiful, but cold-hearted genius

just cheated on him with some professor,

and now those two are birding together as a couple.

And I thought Rick was bad!

Yeah. Well, apparently,

"Breena and Lazlo" are much worse,

which is why I offered to step in,

but if you could do it...

Yep, that's correct! There's ten of us.

But you're not trying to set me up, right?

No. I'm pretty sure

you're both in the romance-is-dead-to-me zone,

and I'm not sure that he's over his ex, so, yeah, no.

He just can't enter alone,

and I was happy to role-play for him until--

Yeah! Still here!

"Role-play"? So you were gonna, what,

pretend to be his girlfriend for the contest?

-Yes. -Yes?

Uh, I know it's a little unusual,

but you would be doing me and John the biggest favor.

He is the sweetest guy.

A little quiet,

but, you know, still more fun than organizing your garage.

It does sound like he's in an awful position.

Would this count as my "something crazy"?

[gasps] Yes! Absolutely.

Fine, then I'll do it.

Really?

Oh, you wanna go over the auction items,

like, right now? Okay.

I gotta go.

I'm gonna have him text you all of the information.

You're the best!

And, um, you know, just have fun with it.

Mm-kay!

[astonished chuckle]

[deep breath]

Pretending to be someone's girlfriend--

I've officially entered my midlife crisis.

[♪♪♪]

[text alert chimes]

[whoosh]

[snap]

[whoosh]

[♪♪♪]

Hey.

[indistinct chatter]

Well, I know you were deciding between

"Kingfisher", "Khanzodes", and "Deducktions",

but I, for one, am glad you went with the latter.

Plus, the team name fits so much better.

[laughs] Thank you.

I definitely feel like there's more activity this year.

Well, let's hope so, for your sake.

You mean "ours"?

I already have tenure.

Well, I'm not sure

this competition will get you there.

Not yet, but every win is a resume boost.

Oh. Excuse me.

Hi. Hi there!

Hi. Am I in the right place to check in?

Yes. Welcome. I'm Linda Sanchez,

President of the NorCal Ornithological Society.

And you are?

Celeste. I'm waiting for my partner, John.

Keller?

Mm-hmm.

Oh! So i-is John competing this year after all?

Yes. He should be here any minute.

Oh, Breena, too bad you're competing

against John this year.

This is Celeste-- John's new birding partner.

We'll be fine. Nice to meet you.

Likewise. And we can just say "partner".

You know, in the general sense.

Just to simplify. Just to cover all the bases.

-[chuckling] -Celeste?

-Hi! -Hey.

-You made it. -Hi, sweetie!

-Ohh... -Oh!

John!

It's so good to see you.

Yeah, you too, Linda.

Um, let me get your T-shirts.

Okay.

I wasn't sure you'd be competing this year.

Well, I couldn't let you just run away with it now, could I?

Wouldn't be fair...

even if a win would look good towards your tenure goal.

I only want to win fairly.

I'm surprised to see that you're already seeing someone.

Excuse me?

You're right-- none of my business.

It's okay.

We're just...

happy to compete.

John.

Lazlo.

[perky] Well, we should probably go get our gear.

I'm a bit newer to birding,

so I wanna make sure I have everything.

-Yeah. -Of course.

Good luck.

Yeah. Y-You too.

Huh.

What was that?

Celeste Johansen--

your friendly fake date to the rescue.

No?

That's not what I'm here for?

You're here... for a fake date?

[laughter]

So, wait, let me get this straight--

Eva was gonna pretend to be my girlfriend?

I love Eva!

She's so sweet. She is helpful.

Up for anything.

And always trying to be in a million places at once--

which is how you got stuck with me.

I'm sorry for the misunderstanding...

and Breena.

Oh, so you-- you heard the whole story?

Mm-hmm.

[sighs]

[laughs] I-I should be the one apologizing to you.

You came all the way out here on a Saturday morning,

you know, when you could've been sleeping in--

[dreamily] Or organizing my garage.

Either way, it's fine--

I get the whole bad-breakup/betrayal thing.

I recently had one myself after 22 years.

22 years? I'm-I'm sorry.

So is that-- is that why you-you jumped in to help?

Maybe. Probably. As absurd as that sounds.

It sounds... kind.

You don't have to do this, you know.

This is--

I'm not gonna leave now!

Besides, I like birds.

I like the ones that fly, make eggs...

Is that, uh, the extent of your-your bird knowledge?

-Pretty much! -Okay.

But I am a quick learner and an eager student,

so take it or leave it.

I'll definitely take it.

[♪♪♪]

Do you come here often?

As a matter of fact, I do.

-[chuckling] -It's beautiful.

-Pretty great spot, right? -Mm-hmm.

There you two lovebirds are!

I feel like these came out pretty well--

despite the long name.

"Patient Listening". Is that our name?

You didn't know?

I-I wanted it to be a surprise.

Although, I thought that you might've wanted to establish

something a little bit more aggressive,

seeing as Spring Lake Sporting Goods

is the sponsor this year.

The prize money is enough

to launch your own birding business,

if that's the plan.

You want to start your own birding business?

I feel like there's a lot of surprises here.

You know, I just--

...I didn't want to put too much pressure on Celeste.

-We're just here having fun. -Are we?

Well, hopefully, it'll be fun and successful.

[chuckles] Good luck!

-Thanks, Linda. -Thank you.

So, this is bigger

than wanting to not lose face in front of your ex?

Well, there's never been a big corporate sponsor

like this before,

to give us more press,

or a five-figure prize.

How steep's the competition?

Every year, there's been a lot of great teams,

but Breena and I have won it the last three years in a row,

so it's definitely doable.

Okay, then.

[whack]

Okay! Yeah.

Good morning, everyone!

I am thrilled to welcome you all here today

to kick off our annual contest--

the NorCal Ornithology Bird-A-Thon!

-[applauding] -Yay!

It's too much to ask.

No. Besides, we cannot let the cheaters win.

To all of our new birders-- welcome!

And to our returning competitors,

welcome back.

You're really up for it?

The birding...

the fake dating?

Apparently, I need to step out of my comfort zone,

so here we are.

Yeah?

[Linda] ...the biggest cash prize ever!

And so, it's with immense excitement,

and gratitude for your involvement--

I can do anything for one day.

[Linda] ...that I declare

our three-week Bird-A-Thon officially underway.

[cheering]

I'm sorry--

did she just say "three weeks"?

You still in?

[♪♪♪]

You're gonna love it.

[♪♪♪]

I need you to fill me in on all the rules--

what to buy, what to read.

I want to be as prepared as possible.

Of course. And you will be.

But, before we get to any of that,

why don't you...

here.

Take a look, right there.

Okay?

Tell me what you see.

I see a tree.

That's a good start.

With leaves?

Okay, now look between the leaves.

What do you see between the leaves?

Nothing's out there.

Okay.

Okay, that's...

-[chuckles] -...that's totally fine.

So far, we've seen what, five birds?

And three of those birds are the same as the first one--

the white-cap swallow. -"The white-crowned sparrow."

-The white-crowned sparrow! -Oh, yes.

Exactly!

But we're three minutes in, we're already behind.

We're doing a total bird-species count

over the next three weekends.

Anywhere?

Well, the greater Marin and Sonoma County area,

which is not insignificant, when it comes to habitats,

so...

we have time.

Then why is everyone rushing around?

[indistinct exchange]

I'd say they're just getting started.

You know, everyone comes out of the gate differently.

I need to buy a guidebook

and some binoculars,

and maybe those pants with the pockets.

Basically, all the gear.

Oh--

Hey! You just told me

your future is hanging in the balance here.

It's-- That is dramatic!

[laughing]

I don't know if I said that, exactly.

Teach me birding, so we can get started.

Uh, yeah.

Fine. Yeah, okay.

You're gonna need these back.

All right. So, uh, just...

scan... to the left, slowly,

and then to the right...

and just look in between the branches.

[♪♪♪]

[John] When I was a kid,

watching birds was always about...

being outside,

discovering something.

That's where I felt connected...

grounded, safe.

Why? Were you shy?

Painfully.

But this helped.

With confidence?

Yeah, eventually,

you get to know one bird so well that you can identify it easily,

or its song.

You know, it starts with an initial curiosity,

and then it morphs into something more...

powerful.

You know, if I start guiding,

that's what I want to convey to people--

that it's a quiet, but...

powerful hobby, in a lot of ways.

So we just wait?

Contest or no contest--

we're doing this right.

We start with discovery, and then we go from there.

You know...

don't worry about the count today.

Just see the bird.

That sounds way more Zen than I'm feeling right now.

[laughing]

Just be patient. They're out there.

So what's your white whale?

You know, the one you just haven't seen yet?

Wouldn't say my white whale, necessarily, but...

I really want to see a spotted owl.

Ooh!

Yeah. They're an endangered species,

so rare

that almost nobody outside of the most dedicated birders

have seen them in the wild.

Mm. No spotted owls.

Well, today, we are going to see herons...

egrets, ducks.

[Celeste] Oh! There's one.

[John] Oh, yeah. Look at that.

Some kind of heron.

Yeah, that's a great blue heron.

[shutter snaps]

Wow.

Look right there.

"Snowy egret".

[shrieks] Oh, I see him!

Okay, all right.

Now-Now you're just scaring the birds.

Sorry! Right. Of course.

Quiet coyote. Very quiet.

[Celeste laughs]

[Celeste] "Fake date"?

Are you kidding me?

How did I get that out of the conversation?

I am still trying to work that out as well.

I mean, I know him, but not that well.

Although, you did say "yes"

when I asked you if that's what it was.

I don't recall that! And clearly, I didn't mean it--

or sticking you with a three-week competition.

I was gonna tag you out.

Oh, that ship-- that has sailed.

I have now not only stepped out of my comfort zone,

I'm on a rocket ship to the moon with this fake date,

who's, unfortunately, not unattractive,

and you're right-- he's still hung up on his ex.

So, yay.

-Cheers! -Cheers!

Hey, Mom, what is this?

Oh! Are you ready for this?

I don't know.

[gasping] ♪ My new bucket hat! ♪

I love!

[Celeste] Birdhouse with camera.

Outdoor vest with pockets?

-Mom... -You can borrow it!

-I'll pass. -[laughter]

Oh, wow! My brand-new binoculars!

Oh, yeah.

What do you guys think?

Super-nerdy, guys, but have at it!

Hey, I made lasagna.

Oh, thanks, but I already ate.

Hmm.

[hushed] I don't get it! We have always bonded over food.

That's our thing.

And she's gonna be away at V.A.U.

in just a matter of weeks,

and I thought we'd be spending more time together.

Why does everything feel so off?

I mean, that's the thing, though, with kids.

What's "the thing"?

They need to torch the house so they can leave it.

I mean, it makes sense.

Otherwise, how would you leave all of this?

That's a real dark analogy.

And one of the many reasons that Nathan and I

have adopted fur-babies.

So they'd never leave?

They can't light a match.

[laughing]

[♪♪♪]

Hey.

Told you the files

were not too big or too heavy to bring over.

Well, I could've picked them up myself.

Gave me a chance to get a lunchtime walk in.

I never did get those dividers.

But you're still trying to get

your guiding business off the ground.

It takes more than passion to succeed.

Well, winning the competition would help.

How do you feel about your chances?

You mean without having you as my partner?

We won the last three years in a row for a reason,

because we're both great birders.

I'm just wondering what your new partner's credentials are.

We'll be fine.

Good.

Well, if you find you're missing anything else,

let me know, I'm happy to bring it over.

Yeah, I think, uh...

I think this is the last of it.

Thank you.

Okay.

Well, may the best birder win.

[♪♪♪]

I should be home in about 20 minutes.

I just got a call from the office

to pick something up,

and then I'm out.

Okay, I'll see you soon.

[chuckles]

Thank you! What in the world?

"I appreciate your enthusiasm

and just wanted to say thank you."

[chuckles]

The rumor mill is on fire!

Are you seeing somebody?

Is that why you've been avoiding us?

Is that what those are?

I'm not avoiding you.

That's not a "no".

But, yes! Yep!

I sure am.

You were right!

I usually am.

But my cousin will be devastated.

I've never met him. I think he'll be okay.

That's beside the point.

You have to bring him.

Who?

Your new boyfriend!

Oh, it's-it's still the early days.

Which is exactly why we need to meet him.

Test the roll cage.

Don't wanna waste time if he's not solid.

Mm-hmm.

-So, you'll bring him? -I will try.

To what?

The bowling fundraiser--

staff versus parents?

Remember? It's Friday night.

Oh, right... bowling.

Uh, yeah, sure. I'll just see if he's free.

Please!

You've just started dating-- of course he's free.

Right?

Right.

Yeah, I'm just gonna...

He's so thoughtful.

[chuckles awkwardly] Yeah.

[Celeste] "Then I will not repine,

Knowing that bird of mine, though flown,

shall, in a distant tree,

bright melody for me

return."

Let me guess--

Audubon's Birds of America ?

That's en route, but no-- Emily Dickinson.

I never realized how many writers

were fascinated with birds

until now.

It's like when I was gonna buy a green Jeep,

all of a sudden, I started seeing them everywhere.

[chuckles]

New T-shirt?

What do ya think?

I think it's nerdy...

[laughs]

...but I like it.

-Shall we? -Yes.

So... it's really just an honor system

for a prize that big?

You record what you see.

That sounds ripe for cheating or mistakes,

especially from someone like me--

who knows very little about birds.

What if I get it wrong?

I got you.

I just want you to get more out of this

than making a list.

Like the other day?

How do you mean?

Well, instead of just running around

like chickens with our heads cut off--

oh, wow, that's a terrible saying!

Yeah. Yeah, wow, I won't disagree.

...you made me slow down

and just look at the bird.

It's the kind of guiding I want to do...

for beginners.

You could be my first.

I think I already am.

Well, you're doing great.

Well, I have a lot of time to study and shop online.

My daughter is getting ready to go off to college

and doesn't seem to need me as much anymore.

What about you?

That's what I'm curious about.

Did you just see that?

Stop avoiding the question.

No, I'm serious! I think I just saw a scrub jay.

A scrub jay-- how do you even know what a scrub jay is?

-Hey. Hey, hey, hey. -I think I just saw a scr--

Oh, gosh, I'm in a plant.

-Whoa, whoa. You okay? -I'm okay.

[calmly] Slow down, okay?

No rush.

So where'd you see it?

-Right up here. -That way?

All right, let's go.

[birds singing]

I grew up in Cleveland, a place called Shaker Heights,

and now I'm a high-school English teacher.

That's it?

I don't mean "that's it"

like that's all you got going on,

but what else about you?

Let's see.

I met my ex-husband at university.

I moved here when he got a job.

I quit mine when I had Morgan.

I just went back a few years ago,

so basically, you could say I took a long hiatus,

I lost myself in the process,

and now I feel like I have no idea what I'm doing.

[deep breath]

I bet you're glad you asked that question.

I am.

Your turn.

I grew up

in a small, ridiculously quiet town--

Mendocino,

about two hours north of here.

There wasn't really much to do, or going on, so...

...I started birding.

And then I fell in love with it.

[chuckles]

I'm glad you have time for a new hobby.

It's kind of exciting.

Yes, it is.

Now don't talk to me.

[whispers] Oh, that's right-- you're birding.

[gasps] Look yonder.

A scrub jay is in sight.

Oh, yeah, look at that.

[birds singing]

[Celeste] Toldja I saw one.

Indeed, a scrub jay.

Ha.

Good spotting.

Thank you.

[Celeste] Seven? In two hours?

[John] Hence the title "Patient Listening".

We got time.

Okay, speaking of time,

do you happen to have any to spare

on Friday night?

We have this school event.

It's a fundraiser.

Parents against teachers.

-What's the "against" part? -Bowling.

Oh, no, I'm out.

Really?

Only because I'm a terrible bowler.

Oh, no, no, no. You do not have to be good.

You just have to show up.

That is 97% of it-- I promise.

But, full disclosure,

I may have insinuated something

that makes this all a bit more complicated.

Okay.

You know how I teach high school?

Well, sometimes, I feel like

I'm still in high school with all the gossip,

and the drama and the people in your business,

trying to set you up because they feel sorry for you.

And then there were your flowers--

thank you, by the way. I hope you got my text.

It was just a little something.

And my co-workers saw 'em

and they thought I had a new boyfriend.

Okay. And, uh, to which you said?

Not a lot! They're a bit much.

And then, of course, they wanted to meet you.

-Your "new boyfriend"? -Yes.

I know, it's a lot to ask.

I just-- I don't wanna be that person anymore.

What-- What person?

The one people pity.

I just wanna go and I wanna bowl

and raise some money for the kids.

I'm in.

Really?

Yeah. I owe you.

[♪♪♪]

[Eva] Girl, you look great in everything.

What's the big deal?

Well, it's not every day

you have to get dressed for a fake date.

It's harder than you think!

Mm. No, not that one.

What? No?

You know, it's casual.

It's bowling,

so it's gotta be casual,

but cute enough for early dating.

Whatever that means!

[Eva] That's tragic.

Oh, please-- don't hold back.

[laughs] Hey, you called me.

[gasping] What about this?

[Eva] Oh! Better.

-But? -[door shuts]

Oh, it's Morgan! I gotta go!

"Better" wasn't a "yes"!

[termination beeping]

I can't do the same concept as every other artist.

It's the Junior Art Collective!

My... [sighs] My last one.

[Celeste] Hi, honey!

You're home.

I gotta go.

How was your day?

[sighing] Okay.

Except my art project is a disaster.

You get nervous every year,

and I know it's gonna be beautiful.

It's fine.

I just need to revise it...

in a vacuum.

Well, if you need my help--

That's not a vacuum.

I wanted to give you this.

Go on.

Open it.

You didn't need to get me anything.

I know.

I'm just excited for you.

Thanks... Mom.

But...

what if I made a mistake?

In choosing V.A.U.?

This has been the goal, the path,

for as long as I can remember.

I know.

You're so close. Don't second-guess yourself.

If it's too big, we can always get you a different size.

[abrupt] It's good.

Are you sure?

I just need to get back to my pieces.

I can't bomb my last art show.

You won't.

Hey! Don't forget your cookie dough.

[♪♪♪]

[♪♪♪]

[Celeste] We need to figure this out.

But you already gave me the lowdown on everyone.

Well, that's them. What about us? How did we meet?

[John] That's gonna come up between strikes?

With this crew, you never know.

Was it birding at--? Doh, I have no idea.

-Hawk Hill. -"Hawk Hill!"

We were looking at the same bird--

-Mm-hmm. -...and then I asked you out

for French fries.

-French fries? -They're my go-to food.

They're perfect on any occasion.

Well, you see,

that's something I definitely needed to know!

[indistinct chatter]

We good?

Did you stretch?

My bowling arm?

You'll probably be okay-- with a little PT.

Well, maybe.

[exhales anxiously]

Hey, everyone.

This is John.

-Hi. -John!

-Hi. -Hi, John.

[chuckles anxiously]

You are much taller than I imagined.

Taller? You mean brawnier!

[John] Really?

Why's that?

You mean, "for a birder"?

Well, I guess I never met one before.

But we're excited to get to know you.

So excited!

Like, what university did you go to?

[Layla] Did you have a favorite teacher?

[Andrea] Do you have any children?

[gasps] How did you guys meet?

-Yes! How did you meet? -You know what, ladies?

Why don't we do this after we bowl,

'cause we don't wanna hold everyone up.

-Yeah. Yeah. -Right, hon'?

I know I'm ready to bowl.

-Are you? -Yeah.

Fine. Everyone, add your name to the scoreboards!

It's time to bowl!

Whoo!

♪ Listen up Feel the rush ♪

♪ 'Cause our time has begun now ♪

♪ Yeah ♪

♪ Pressure's on Start the song ♪

♪ And let's lose control ♪

♪ Yeah ♪

♪ I'm reachin' out ♪

♪ Can I touch the clouds? ♪

♪ Try to pull me down ♪

♪ Can't keep my feet on the ground ♪

♪ Yes, you and me ♪

♪ Come and feel this beat ♪

♪ There's a world to see ♪

♪ Can't keep my feet on the ground ♪

♪ I'm reachin' out ♪

♪ Can I touch the clouds? ♪

♪ Try to pull me down ♪

♪ Can't keep my feet on the ground ♪

♪ Yes, you and me ♪

♪ Come and feel this beat ♪

♪ There's a world to see ♪

♪ Can't keep my feet on the ground ♪

So... in the absence of fries,

what can I get you?

Red Vines. They're quick.

I think everybody's wrapping up.

"Red Vines"?

I'm more of a Junior Mints kind of guy myself,

but I'll be right back.

[hushed] I'm sorry, but...

I don't think he's that into her.

I kind of have to agree.

I mean, did you see how she was all over him,

and teaching him how to bowl,

and he didn't even touch her?

Ugh. Is it bad that I feel sorry for her?

Same! I mean, when I think of her--

a whole year, alone?

Yeah. I mean, this definitely

never would have happened with Gary.

[Layla] Gary is such a wild card emotionally, though.

She wanted to be here,

but she got roped into this fundraiser,

it was for her-- -Hi.

-Oh! -I'm sorry.

Can I-- Can I borrow you for a sec?

-Yeah. Sure. -Yeah?

Where's our candy?

Uh, well, um...

They didn't have any?

I didn't make it to the front of the line.

I have been a terrible fake boyfriend.

What are you talking about?

You've been fine.

Not according to your friends.

[♪♪♪]

Oh? Oh...

Yeah. They're, uh, questioning...

my devotion to you.

Devotion?

-Yeah. -Like, how?

We just started dating.

Me being into you.

I haven't been selling it enough.

I'm sorry.

There's nothing to be sorry about.

Yeah, they're-- they're watching us right now.

[Celeste] They are? Oh, yeah, they are.

Mm. Um, I can fix this.

It would just mean us getting a little closer

than what we discussed.

Yeah.

I really don't want to go out with Andrea's cousin, so...

go for it.

Okay.

[♪♪♪]

[both sighing dreamily]

It's vanilla, isn't it?

What?

Your perfume.

Oh, it's lavender...

and I think vanilla caviar,

not that you would notice that.

I think it's different on everyone.

I'm starting to notice a lot of things about you.

[♪♪♪]

Everyone is watching us.

Yeah, they are.

Yeah.

I mean, we--

we should probably kiss, right?

Being this close?

I mean, if we're dating--

-Yeah, being this close, right? -...probably.

-Yeah, probably. -Yeah.

Are we really doing this?

It appears so.

[♪♪♪]

We should, uh...

-Yeah. -We should probably go.

Uh, yeah.

It's an early morning tomorrow.

-Yeah. -With the birds.

With the birds. With the birds.

Thank you.

You're welcome.

-Are those your-- -Yeah.

...your shoes right here?

-Yeah, those are my shoes here. -Okay. Bye.

-All right. -See ya.

Bye-bye. Bye.

[♪♪♪]

[Morgan] Mom, this new birdcam is so cool.

[Celeste] It is.

Right? I've been watching it all morning.

I know you like a clean house, but this feels excessive.

What's wrong?

Nothing's wrong!

Our living room just needed some sprucing.

Does this have anything to do with your bird-friend

coming over? -What? No!

Why would you say that?

So you're really just going to hang out in our backyard

and watch birds?

For the contest.

Our backyard happens to be a bit of a bird sanctuary,

according to A Guide to Native Birds of California .

Whatever you say.

Have you talked to your roommate

about who's bringing the fridge?

Oh, and I was thinking we could run out

and get matching duvets.

I've got time now.

I'm actually meeting up with some friends

at the art studio. -Oh.

I'll get to it, okay?

Sorry, sorry. I didn't mean to push.

Um, you wanna order ramen later?

I'm actually having dinner with Dad and Lucy.

He didn't mention he was coming.

I guess it was a super-last-minute work thing.

I'm sorry. It'll be fun!

You are gonna have a lot of fun.

You know...

you can date people too, right?

Yeah, I know that,

and I will, when I meet someone I like.

It's all about timing.

So not this new bird-guy?

Pretty sure he's still hung up on his ex,

so yeah, no, not gonna go there.

Whatever you say.

Have fun organizing your living room.

It's still "our" living room!

You haven't moved out yet.

Oh, I'm sure you're counting the days.

[knocking]

[door opens]

Uh, Mom, someone's asking for you on the porch.

What? Already?

Tall, nerdy-surfer vibe?

Is he your birding friend?

Why are you saying it like that?

No reason!

Did you just leave him out there?

Yeah.

His name is John... by the way.

Come on in, John!

[♪♪♪]

[chuckles] Ahem.

-Hi! -Hi.

You're early.

I thought we said ten.

Really? I thought we said nine.

Is it-- Is it okay I came in?

Your daughter, she told me to--

She was just leaving. Yeah. And that's good,

because now you've met my daughter.

I mean, not that it's, like, super-significant

that my daughter meet my birding partner.

Although, we are in our second weekend,

so that-that does feel pretty significant.

So it's okay I came in?

It's great!

I'm gonna, um, go grab my stuff,

and then we can find some feathers.

All right. Cool.

I don't know if we're supposed to pick favorites,

but the yellow warbler is definitely

the most attractive bird we've seen.

So far!

They're like a sunburst with wings,

and those little nests they make?

They're like coffee mugs! Adorable!

Ah, you spotted it.

You identified it.

You'll get there, don't worry.

So, be honest--

we're halfway through, how are we doing?

-Numbers-wise? -Mm-hmm.

Well, it's tough to say when we don't know others' counts.

Well, can't we just ask them?

I'm sure they'd like to know.

That's not something we do.

Nobody knows the counts until the final reception,

when we announce the winner.

So...?

So... 97 is decent.

Teams can spot

up to 200 bird species per weekend.

200 per weekend?

We're nowhere near where we need to be.

Let's go!

Oops! Ha!

Oh, hey... an injury is not gonna help us.

Well, stop distracting me.

Oh, I'm distracting?

Mm-hmm. Let's go.

-Where are we going? -Yonder!

-Hmm? -I can hear them.

-All right. -Do you hear that?

"Yonder" it is.

I know you liked doing this as a kid,

but did you actually study ornithology in school?

Biology with a minor in ornithology.

I made it my concentration in grad school.

Masters or Ph.D.?

Masters, initially.

Breena really wanted me

to do the whole tenure-track professorship,

like her,

which made sense until...

Lazlo?

...I realized I hated it.

So I dropped out,

much to Breena's dismay.

Hence Lazlo--

who was deeply rooted in all things academia.

I'm sorry.

I just didn't wanna spend more time in a lab

than in the outdoors.

But, believe it or not...

I'm a desk-job guy now.

Well, hopefully not forever,

and I think we can win.

Oh, I definitely don't think Breena thinks that.

Well, who cares what she thinks?

It would be great to prove her wrong.

[♪♪♪]

You are so lucky

that you have all this in your backyard.

I know, right?

I love all of these birds,

but I know very little about them...

or what's happening all around them.

Like over here-- do you see that one?

Oh, yeah! Look at that.

[Celeste] What is it?

You really want me to tell you?

No.

The red-footed mini pigeon.

[laughs] Seriously?

[Celeste] The western bluebird.

Okay.

Wow. You really had me there.

I told you you'd get there.

[birds singing]

[Celeste] That one!

I hear those birds all the time,

but I can't find them.

The little chicks just flew the nest,

which feels a little too close to home.

Ah, I guess you're not ready for Morgan to leave yet?

No. Not that she's wanted to hang out much lately.

Look, I'm no parent,

but I bet you're doing better than you think.

It's a parent's job to give their kids roots

and then wings.

It seems to me like you're doing just that.

Of course, you would find an analogy in it.

-[chuckling] -[bird trills]

Oh, can you tell me what that is?

That's the call of a red-winged blackbird.

Do you typically hear a call and a response?

Yeah, usually, you hear a pair

calling back and forth to each other.

The male and the female each have different sounds.

[birds calling]

There it is. Right there.

Where?

On the branch. You see it?

That's the female.

[Celeste] Oh, yes!

[bird sings and trills]

It sounds like the other one

is just across the stream, over there.

The males have the distinct red wing.

[Celeste chuckles]

What are they saying?

Well, if I knew that,

I'd definitely have my own birding business.

I walked right into that one, didn't I?

-Yeah, you did. -You know what I mean, though.

I mean, they're obviously trying to communicate something.

I don't know exactly, but they're just...

keeping track of each other,

looking for food,

making sure no one goes too far.

Who knew birds could be so romantic?

You did.

Maybe.

[♪♪♪]

We added 40 today.

That's 119. That's our bird count.

That's a great day.

Where were you at this point last year?

Let's not worry about the past.

I just wanna... enjoy this.

You?

Same.

'Cause this is a whole new ballgame.

I don't know if you heard, but...

I got a new partner.

I may have heard something about her.

Smart, enthusiastic--

Maybe a little too nice with her co-workers, but...

hopefully very good at trivia night?

They're really gonna add 10 points for the winner?

Yeah. It's the first year they're doing this.

Oh, there's only one problem.

-What's that? -Trivia's on Thursday.

You said this would just be weekends.

You can't make it?

You're joking?

-Yeah. -Okay.

I'm pretty sure I'm free on Thursday.

Okay, good.

Good.

Well, I guess I should get back to it.

I gotta start studying for the big game.

Yep. Same. Same!

Have a good sleep.

It's gonna be a big day tomorrow.

I'll be there. Goodnight!

Goodnight.

[♪♪♪]

Look. Right there.

[♪♪♪]

[calling for birds]

[calling]

[calling for birds]

[laughing]

♪ Whoa-oh-oh-oh ♪

♪ Whoa-oh-oh ♪

♪ Whoa-oh-oh-oh ♪

♪ Letting go, letting go ♪

♪ Couldn't breathe in the city ♪

♪ So I took to the road ♪

♪ Whoa-oh-oh-oh-oh-oh ♪

♪ When every window went down ♪

♪ I wasn't even sure where to go ♪

♪ Whoa-oh-oh-oh-oh-oh ♪

♪ You can find me ♪

♪ Where we all run free ♪

♪ Whoa-oh-oh-oh ♪

♪ Whoa-oh-oh ♪

♪ Whoa-oh-oh-oh ♪

♪ Letting go, letting go ♪

♪ Whoa-oh-oh-oh ♪

♪ Whoa-oh-oh ♪

♪ Whoa-oh-oh-oh ♪

♪ Letting go, letting go ♪

♪ Whoa-oh-oh-oh... ♪

♪ Letting go, letting go ♪

Costa's hummingbird.

Bingo.

Hey, what are y'all looking at?

[Celeste] Shh.

Right there.

Oh, sorry! My bad.

[John] You see him?

He's sitting right on that branch.

Right there.

Here, take these.

[♪♪♪]

Wow!

See, I don't think I'd be any good at this.

I mean, I can't sit still long enough

to tie my shoes, let alone scout for birds.

Well, I am happy to meet you, Fred, 'cause I can relate.

I think you'd be surprised.

You just met the Clark Kent of birds,

and only because of migration--

otherwise, they'd be asleep right now.

Superman?

Yeah.

Hummingbirds are faster than cars.

And just like you on this trail,

their wings never stop moving.

[chuckles]

Wow. Thanks!

I wonder what else is out here.

What?

You're really good at this.

With or without a Ph.D., you can win this...

and be a great guide.

Pretty sure Fred would agree.

[♪♪♪]

[both wheezing]

[John] Are you okay?

[Celeste] Yeah.

This is it.

The tall trees, old-growth forests--

the perfect habitat for nesting.

Spotted owls love places like this.

I'm impressed.

You've done your homework.

I was doing some research and I found this message board,

and someone claimed to have seen one in this area,

even during the daytime.

Do we get bonus points if we spot one?

[chuckles] No.

Just the, uh, the satisfaction and the bragging rights.

And maybe, because of you...

we're gonna see one today.

Okay.

Let's be very quiet.

[hushed] Look. I see something!

[♪♪♪]

[quietly] That's it.

[♪♪♪]

[♪♪♪]

[snapping]

[snap]

[Celeste chuckles]

Thank you.

[♪♪♪]

[♪♪♪]

[door opens]

[♪♪♪]

[chuckles softly]

[♪♪♪]

[♪♪♪]

[♪♪♪]

Did I read your text correctly?

Are you going out with John on a weeknight?

I do not think I sent you that text.

Okay, maybe it was John, but either way-- exciting!

It's for the contest that you got me into.

Yeah, this feels a touch extracurricular.

I mean, it's a pub!

There are birding points on the line.

[dryly] Oh, that's a whole other ballgame, then.

Don't you have somewhere to be?

-Remarkably, no. -Well, I do.

So, go!

Okay, bye.

Don't forget about our party on Saturday.

What party?

The anniversary party...

ten years.

Wait! Did I not give you one? I swore I did!

No!

But you did tell me about it.

[relieved sigh] Not funny.

Very cute invite. I will be there.

Now I remember.

I ran into John at pickleball the other day.

He's pretty excited about tonight.

Just sayin'.

[♪♪♪]

-Oh. -Oh, finally.

What? I'm here before 10 A.M., so, you know, you're welcome.

Okay, listen, I got a question for you.

Mm-hmm?

How much land mass was given to construction

over the last year,

affecting bird habitat?

You're asking me that?

I'm pretty sure

you get to roll in here after 10 A.M. for a reason.

And I got trivia tonight.

Oh, when will you know the results?

What, for trivia, or for the contest?

The contest.

This weekend. Why?

[exhaling]

There's an opening...

for Operations Director that I wanna put you up for.

Look, it's more managerial, obviously,

and will mean more time in front of a computer screen,

but the pay reflects that,

so if you're interested...

Can you give me till Monday?

Sure. Yeah.

I mean, that's probably as far as I can push it, though.

Thanks, C.

No problem.

And, uh, have a good time with your "new partner" tonight.

Why are you saying it like that?

I don't know.

Celeste and I are just teammates.

[scoffs] Oh. Okay.

'Cause I was just getting the feeling

that you were super-excited to spend more time with her,

that's all. You know?

You know, 'cause you seem super-excited.

That's the vibe I'm getting.

-Okay. -Yeah.

Fine. I-I-I am excited.

Okay.

Now, how about the land mass question?

I need to know that. I need the win.

[exhaling deeply]

John, I...

I know everything.

Come!

I knew it!

♪ Ooh, ooh ♪

[♪♪♪]

[indistinct chatter]

Hi!

-Hey! -Hey.

Sorry to keep you waiting.

You didn't have to w-wait for me.

Oh, I am not going in there without you.

Why not?

You can hold your own.

Y-You look really--

Don't say it. I'm very focused right now.

I have my "trivia face" on.

Okay, well, I was gonna say you look really ready to win.

Why do you say that?

All tan.

Is that coincidence or choice?

What do you think?

-Choice! -Correct.

Muted colors help ensure the survival for females.

And what about this purple situation?

-Oh! -Is that dominance?

This? Let's hope so.

But it was actually, uh, so I could attract a mate.

[scoffs]

In the wild-- of course.

-Mm-hmm! Of course. -Yeah.

-You ready to win? -Let's go.

Okay, let's go. Let's do this.

[chuckling]

[chuckles] All right! Moving right along.

Next question.

Which bird uses the prevailing winds

to keep cool?

Yeah, I-I'm sorry, but this question

is lacking in needed specifics.

Which season? Which winds?

Oh, take an educated guess!

It's trivia night, after all.

[whispering]

I'm telling you-- it's the verdin.

That teeny little bird builds a spherical nest

with the opening facing the breeze--

it's genius.

Wow. Okay.

Submit your answers.

Is that it?

I-I don't know, but it-it seems like the right answer.

-What? -Why don't you--

You don't know and I do?

This is such a "student becomes the teacher" moment!

-It is. -Write it down, John.

Okay.

[Linda] And the answer is...

the verdin.

-Yes! -[cheering]

Look at you!

[Linda] Team Patient Listening has the correct answer!

[applause]

Okay.

Now, keeping things going--

with an average speed of over 200 miles an hour,

which bird isn't just the fastest bird on earth,

but the speediest animal?

The answer is peregrine falcon!

Four teams get a point on that one.

Here we go.

Which U.S. President

was an avid birder with a life list

of over 1,100 species of birds?

-Okay. -[whispers indistinctly]

[Linda] Clock is ticking.

Here we go...

and the correct answer is Jimmy Carter!

Great job, Team Deducktions,

with the correct answer.

Next question.

This bird species can sleep with one eye open while flying.

One eye?

All right, almost there.

And the answer is-- Arctic tern!

That's two teams with the correct answer...

which means we have a tie!

-No! -Yes.

Deducktions and Team Patient Listening,

are you ready to do a face-off?

Game on!

[Linda] All right.

This question's a little different from the others.

This question involves a poem by Emily Dickinson.

Wait, that's your girl.

I know!

Okay, poker face.

[Linda] Okay, everybody ready?

In this poem, Dickinson makes a reference

to a desert insect known as the "cochineal".

What is the name of the poem?

Come on, Linda! Seriously?

I don't make up the questions. I just read them!

Come on-- the clock is ticking.

You know the answer to this?

I've read it a dozen times.

Okay. Well, speak from the heart, young Jedi.

[Linda] All right, time's up.

Let's see who's the most literary amongst us.

And the answer is...

The Humming-Bird.

"...the Humming-Bird!"

Which means, Team Patient Listening,

you are our winners!

[crowd applauding]

I cannot believe you're relatively new to this.

You're a natural!

You should totally come on a birding trip with us.

I have no idea what that consists of,

but yes, I'm in. -Really?

This has been a ton of fun.

You have been a ton of fun!

More fun than I've had in years. I'd love to be included.

Oh. How do you feel about Arizona?

[Celeste] My daughter is going to college there soon,

so I'd love an excuse to visit.

[Linda] The light is beautiful.

-Breena, hey. -Hey.

I just wanted to say goodnight and congratulations.

Thank you.

I mean, "cochineal"-- wow, a lucky guess, huh?

Celeste actually knew the whole poem.

I guess that would be in her wheelhouse--

English teacher and all.

What, did you-- did you Google her or something?

It's important to know your competition,

but since she's never entered a birding contest before,

I'm feeling pretty good about our odds.

Hey, at least you seem happy.

So you're saying that if we lose,

at least there's that?

No offense,

but I would've picked a partner with more experience.

I had one.

Remember?

And then you chose Lazlo.

I think we're done here.

John, I didn't mean to insult--

You did!

Breena--

you meant to insult Celeste, and then me along the way,

but she's incredible,

and I wouldn't have won tonight without her.

You know, I don't need your advice or your approval.

Not anymore.

[♪♪♪]

We did it!

-[John laughs] -We won! Go, us!

You saved us in the end.

You were incredible.

How are you?

I saw you in there talking to Breena.

You know what?

I'm... I'm fine.

I was just-- I'm wondering what I was trying to prove,

and... why to her.

You know? It's...

You know, I'm finally over it.

Enough about that.

Tonight,

we are victorious!

[Celeste laughs]

So we should, you know, go out.

Oh, I would love to,

but I've got an early morning tomorrow,

and Morgan's probably waiting for me.

About that, just think... chickadees.

"Chickadees"?

Well, you've read and seen how skittish they can be,

but with patience and positive, consistent interaction--

Are you talking about my daughter or birds?

Just let her come to you in her own time.

That's-That's all I'm saying.

Okay.

Do you need a lift?

Thank you, but I-I actually called a rideshare.

It should be here any minute.

Um...

Are you going to Eva's party Saturday night?

Yeah, the tenth-anniversary bash?

Yeah, you?

Same.

Should we go together?

Like... as a couple?

I'm assuming your co-workers are-are gonna be there, so...

-Oh, right! -So...

Yeah, yeah. I mean, obviously, we gotta keep this all up,

for, like, a little bit longer. -Right.

My ride's here.

I should probably go.

Although, honestly,

I'd just like to spend more time with you

without the birds.

What? Do my ears deceive me?

No birds?

Is that a "yes" or a "no" to me picking you up?

Can't just leave me hanging here.

Well, I can't say no to that shirt.

Well, I'm glad I wore it then.

-Goodnight. -Goodnight.

[♪♪♪]

[♪♪♪]

From your strong foundation of warrior pose...

So you kissed again?

Yes, but this time, it wasn't even planned.

It just sort of happened.

And then he asked you out on a date to our party?

Yes. No.

I mean, I don't know!

It's hard to know what's real or fake anymore,

and I don't wanna think it's something it's not

and just get hurt again.

Oh! Whoa! Whoa.

[laughs] No, this is how we'll get hurt!

Sorry, eagle pose, I give up.

Yeah, me too.

[laughs]

But you like him, right?

This is all your fault.

Blame I will happily accept.

Just have fun!

It's gonna be a great night.

Don't overthink it.

You think you can do that?

[sing-songy] I guess we'll find out.

[clack]

[♪♪♪]

[thump]

[♪♪♪]

Hey... Mom?

Hey! Are you sure you don't want to come?

To a party with my high-school teachers?

[laughing]

Thanks, but I'm good.

And how are you feeling about your artwork?

I still can't believe it's the last time

you'll show with the Junior Art Collective.

Don't cry!

And I'm feeling better,

now that I've changed a few things.

You really won't show me?

I want you to have the same experience of surprise

as everyone else.

And I can't believe

the closing reception is also tomorrow night,

but as soon as they announce the winner,

I'm outta there.

It's fine. You don't have to rush.

Oh, I will rush. I promise.

[doorbell rings]

[exhaling deeply]

I'll get it.

No, no, no. I will--

-I'll get it. -No, let me.

Morgan!

[laughing]

Hi, Morgan.

Your friend is here.

Hi.

Hi.

[Andrea] Do you think she got a designer?

Mm. But it's nice.

She's got good taste.

Oh! I'm so glad you two could make it.

'Cause we have a big surprise for you all.

I mean, it's not that big.

-It's a little big. -Yeah.

If it's for her, it better be diamonds.

No one wants tin or aluminum for their tenth.

Something bright and shiny.

Tin stands for strength and resilience.

Mm-hmm. Which I love, but it's not about all that.

It's about having the party that we wanted to have

ten years ago.

All right, you two.

Time for a treat.

You two, go enjoy the party.

♪ Happy anniversary! ♪

-Oh, my-- -You look so beautiful.

Hi.

Hey, Eva. Congrats.

Thank you.

You two... are a good-looking couple.

[laughing]

Is that champagne?

Only the finest for you two.

Thanks, man.

-Happy anniversary. -Big day, yeah!

-Cheers to you. -Here's to you two.

So... are you ready for this?

Mm. It better not be another competition.

No.

[chuckles] Better.

Come on.

Follow me.

He's been talking about it.

Come on, you guys are gonna love it!

You're gonna love it.

[♪♪♪]

We searched far and wide for a killer DJ,

so I wanna see everyone out here.

No excuses!

"No excuses"? Why are you looking at me?

[laughter]

Well, I guess we're dancing.

He did say "everyone".

[John sighs]

-Do you dance? -Oh, I dance.

At least, better than I bowl.

[laughs]

[♪♪♪]

Milady.

[♪♪♪]

[laughing]

Is that your move?

Oh, yeah!

Oh!

I'm impressed.

You haven't even seen me do the electric slide yet.

[laughing] Really?

I want to see it.

Look at this!

[laughing]

You do know the electric side!

Now I'm equally impressed.

[laughing]

[ballad rises]

[♪♪♪]

[♪♪♪]

What do you say?

It's the perfect song for you.

What do you mean?

♪ Mm... ♪

Just listen.

♪ Why do birds ♪

♪ Suddenly appear ♪

♪ Every time ♪

♪ You are near? ♪

♪ Just like me They long to be... ♪

-♪ Close to you... ♪ -"Close to You."

-♪ Why do stars... ♪ -That's the song.

I told you it was perfect.

♪ ...Fall down from the sky Every time you walk by ♪

♪ Just like me They long to be ♪

♪ Close to you ♪

♪ On the day that you were born ♪

♪ The angels got together ♪

♪ And decided to create a dream come true ♪

♪ So they sprinkled moondust in your hair of gold ♪

♪ And starlight in your eyes of blue... ♪

What are we doing?

I don't know.

♪ That is why... ♪

Pretending?

♪ ...All the girls in town ♪

♪ Follow you ♪

♪ All around... ♪

We need to stop.

♪ ...Just like me ♪

♪ They long to be ♪

♪ Close to you ♪

♪ On the day that you were born ♪

-♪ The angels got together... ♪ -Oh, no, I've got to go.

Okay, I'll just stay.

♪ And decided to create a dream come true ♪

They'll be okay.

♪ So they sprinkled moondust in your hair of gold ♪

♪ And starlight in your eyes of blue... ♪

Is everything okay?

Yeah. Yeah, I just--

I haven't checked my messages in a while.

I wasn't sure if Morgan was trying to get a hold of me.

Nice to see you too.

Andrea is leaving too,

so I'm gonna get a ride with her.

What's going on?

Did-Did I do something?

No. It's just a big day tomorrow

with Morgan's art show

and the end of all of this.

The reception?

I just need to go.

Celeste, I don't understand.

-Why are you leaving now? -I'm sorry.

I just-- I can't pretend anymore.

[♪♪♪]

But fingers crossed we win.

[♪♪♪]

[sighs heavily]

It was really nice talking to both of you.

I hope everything works out.

Goodnight!

Long distance, at 23?

Please!

I don't know who thinks that's gonna work.

Had you not met her yet? The new hire?

She just moved here from South Carolina.

You know what? She's fine.

They will figure it out, and they'll be fine.

What isn't fine is you all

talking about their personal lives

like it's a past-time.

We need to be bigger than that.

Okay.

Heard.

And you may have also "heard"

me say I was pretending with John,

and it's true.

He's not into me.

He was never into me.

It's a fake relationship

that I should have never felt the need to create,

but because you all were pitying me,

I started pitying myself.

That's not what we were doing.

It's okay.

It actually-- it pushed me to try new things,

and to stop worrying about what everyone else thinks,

and to realize I'm okay on my own--

like, really okay.

Okay.

[♪♪♪]

[♪♪♪]

Did you get enough to eat?

Are you okay?

Yeah! Of course I am.

Why would I not be?

I just-- I wanna make sure you are ready for your show.

I'm ready.

What about you and your birding reception?

I am assuming it will be short and sweet,

and I will be outta there in no time.

I'm crossing my fingers you win.

Thank you.

I'll be at your show the second I can.

Hey, Mom?

Yeah?

I'm not going.

To what? Your show?

V.A.U.

V.A.U.? What are you talking about?

At least, not straight away.

I just need some more time to decide.

I'm looking into some art schools.

Oh, honey, you can do all that...

after you finish undergrad.

It's only four years.

I've already made up my mind,

and let Admissions and my dorm roommate know.

Dad knows.

I don't understand this.

This is a massive shift. Why didn't we talk about it?

It just...

it just doesn't feel right anymore.

I'll see you tonight?

Yeah. I'll see you tonight.

[♪♪♪]

[sighs]

[indistinct chatter]

John, I think we all enjoyed meeting Celeste.

I hope she competes again with you next year.

Well, that-- that would be nice.

[chuckles]

[Linda] And soon, we need to talk about plans

for the Arizona trip.

Excuse me.

[chatter continues indistinctly]

It's good to see you.

You too.

Celeste--

[Breena] I'm feeling pretty good.

[Lazlo] The birds found us!

We were lucky.

It's not luck. We were the best.

[♪♪♪]

[Linda] It's time!

We have a short slideshow before the contest,

so if everyone could gather round?

Shall we?

After you.

[uplifting slideshow theme begins]

[♪♪♪]

269 is impressive for bird species...

in such a short period of time.

Do you think it's enough?

Whatever it is... it's okay.

[♪♪♪]

So we know there can only be one winner,

but I am happy to announce

that this has been our highest-scoring year yet,

with the best prizes,

and dare I say--

the most entertaining slideshow?

[all chuckling]

But all that makes this moment all the harder for me.

You're all wonderful, and talented,

but the winner of

this year's annual NorCal Ornithological Society

Bird-A-Thon--

with an amazing total of 278 birds--

let's hear it for Winged Warriors!

[applauding and cheering]

It's okay.

We did great.

We did.

[♪♪♪]

Well, there's always next year.

And besides... we got to see a spotted owl!

This was your coin toss-- which way you were gonna go.

I'm sorry.

There's nothing to be sorry about.

Well, that is debatable, but...

your ability to follow through, that is well-documented--

with your books,

all the birds that you've spotted

since you were a kid.

Your passion for teaching...

you forged your own path,

and I was lucky enough to experience that.

And I'm not gonna make you swear any oaths tonight--

-[chuckles] -...but I do hope

you'll consider taking the risk

with your business,

even without the win.

You already have one client.

You?

I was thinking Fred, from the trail?

[John laughs]

He's just waiting for a heads-up.

You're amazing.

You know that?

That's the feeling I got the second I met you.

-I-- -[phone alert chimes]

[chiming]

I have to go.

I'm late to Morgan's art show.

Oh...

I gotta go.

Goodnight.

[background chatter, indistinct]

Yeah, I'm really nervous, but I am excited.

I will definitely let you guys know where I land.

It's definitely going to be an adventure.

[Morgan chuckles]

Excuse me.

Oh, you made it!

Of course I made it.

There is nowhere else I wanna be.

This is your night!

How'd it go, with the contest?

Oh, uh, we lost.

Oh, no, I'm sorry.

Oh, that's too bad.

[Eva] Were you at least close?

Actually, yes,

but, unfortunately, "close" doesn't help John.

Is he coming?

No. Why would he?

Why wouldn't he?

Isn't he your boyfriend?

What?

No!

Are you sure?

'Cause I haven't seen you geek out about anyone,

or anything, this hard, since... ever.

You bought all that birding gear.

It's a fair statement.

Okay, where is your artwork?

Am I the only one who hasn't seen it yet?

It's in the next room.

You're gonna love it.

[indistinct conversations]

[♪♪♪]

[Celeste gasps]

[tender theme rises]

[♪♪♪]

[chuckles warmly]

[♪♪♪]

"Hope

is the thing with feathers...

that perches in the soul

and sings the tune without the words...

and never stops at all."

[chuckles]

Dickinson.

You inspired me.

Really? I did?

We've been through a lot of hard change

in this past year, but...

...you didn't let it beat you.

You got back out into the world,

found a new path, and...

...I've seen you come alive again.

Mom...

you're amazing.

Oh!

Thank you, and now I'm crying.

That's fine!

And I'm sorry I didn't tell you sooner

about the gap year.

I think I was second-guessing it,

but I'm not anymore.

I want to find my own path--

just like you.

[♪♪♪]

You gave me my wings to fly...

...and I promise,

I will always come back.

You know that, right?

I do.

And I want you to find the path that's right for you...

...not anything that's forced.

I know.

Oh...

look at that.

What?

Your "friend" is here.

[♪♪♪]

[conspicuously] Oh, look, Morgan...

more art!

[♪♪♪]

[laughs]

What are you doing here?

I wanted to bring you these.

You know... big day.

Thought you might be hungry.

You brought me French fries?

[laughing]

Perfect for any occasion.

Like admitting

I don't always say what I'm thinking.

Same.

Look.

I know this wasn't supposed to be anything,

and as cheesy as it may sound,

just like the red-winged blackbird...

In my backyard?

[sighs]

...I don't wanna lose sight of you.

The bird analogy really works here.

Thank you.

I thought about it the whole way over.

I didn't mean to fall for you.

That was not my intention at all.

So does that mean you did... fall?

Apparently so.

And I didn't even realize it

until we were at Eva and Nathan's,

and then, suddenly, I didn't wanna pretend anymore.

I stopped pretending a long time ago.

Well, you should probably kiss me, then.

[sets fries down]

[♪♪♪]

So...

what do you think about "Hop-Along Birding"?

Or...

"Flight Club"?

For my new business.

You're gonna go for it?

Like you said--

I think it's time I take the risk.

It's now or never.

I am in full support.

It's also time

that I follow through

on everything I'm passionate about.

Agreed.

And this is just the beginning.

So...

what about that name?

I think we should work on it,

but you might be on to something.

I hope so.

[♪♪♪]

[♪♪♪]