All language subtitles for Tidings.for.the.Season.2025.1080p.WEB.h264-EDITH_track3_[eng]

[♪♪♪]

[grand news theme plays]

[♪♪♪]

I'm Adam Kade,

and coming up tonight on KCYD,

with the holiday season
in full swing,

we'll take you
inside local toy stores

struggling
to keep shelves stocked

as supply chain issues
continue to disrupt.

As supply chain issues
continue to disrupt.

Mom, what are
supply chain issues?

It's when kids
are late for school.

[she chuckles]

-[clicks news off]
-Mm.

Okay, come on! Let's go!

[♪♪♪]

Maybe tomorrow

you can wear
the sweater Grandma made you?

News anchors wear suits
and do interviews!

How does it feel

to be made of millions
of unique snowflakes?

With that nose,

does everything
smell like carrots?

Mm-hmm. Mm-hmm.

You heard it here
first, folks!

Robbie Sullivan reporting
from the front yard.

Robbie Sullivan needs
to be reporting to school!

Come on.
Get a move on, mister.

♪ I'm going home for Christmas ♪

♪ That's where
I'm supposed to be ♪

♪ No way I'd ever miss it ♪

♪ Wrapped up in family ♪

♪ Making memories
Sharing moments ♪

[Adam Kade on TV] And as
Minneapolis rolls out plans

for additional bike lanes,

some residents are asking
Santa for a different gift,

maintenance on
the existing paths.

And tonight,

we will investigate
a danger

lurking in
a common Christmas decoration.

Do you know

what's hiding in your holly?

Find out with me, Adam Ka--
[click]

Ahh! That's better.

Who wants to watch the news,
anyway?

I know. Tell me about it.

All that negativity, right?

Like we don't have enough
to worry about in the world.

Well, I have a front-row seat
to that Adam Kade at home

because Robbie
wants to be a news reporter

when he grows up.

I mean, that is so cute!

Well, what he's hearing him
talk about isn't,

and I don't want him to start
seeing the world that way.

Okay, then why let him
listen to it at all, then?

I...

I want him to follow
what excites him, but...

You know, maybe--

maybe he'll grow out
of this whole news anchor thing.

I don't know.

His class has a field trip
at the KCYD newsroom today...

-Mm-hmm.
-...and he's the one

who suggested it
to the teacher!

[laughs] That boy.

[they chuckle]

Okay, what are we doing?

[♪♪♪]

I'm taking a poll.

What kind of milk
do you leave out for Santa?

Whole, skim, or almond?

Ms. Somerville,

inquiring minds want to know,

what are your plans
for Christmas break?

Sleeping in!

You heard it here first.

[chuckling] Now, I know
you're excited, Robbie,

but we don't want
to be late, do we?

Let's go, kids!

-All right...
-Hmm.

Smooth as
a crystal Christmas ornament.

You are an artist, Mindy.

Oh, only as good
as my canvas.

-Stop!
-[both chuckling]

Oh, there he is!

How many cups is that
for you today, Todd?

[exhaling] Three.

-Three?
-Yeah, one for every point

we dropped
in last night's ratings.

Hey, we'll bounce back.

We just need bigger stories
that grab people's attention.

Yeah, figure that's it.

The fifth grade class
from Elk River Elementary

are here.

-Ah.
-Oh.

Say, Adam--

Yes?

Why don't you talk to the class
with me?

You know, help educate
the next generation?

I educate from behind the desk.

Aw, just interview 'em
with some softball questions,

like who's Santa's
best reindeer?

Dasher, obviously.

Who picks Dasher over Rudolph?

He's the leader of the pack...

alert, calm, confident...
come on.

Adam has a promo recording
in five, so...

[Adam] Yeah. See?

Thank you, Jaclyn.

Can't talk to the kids anyway.

Fine, you Grinch.

Mm. Love you too.

Break out the hand sanitizer,
the kids are here!

[enchanted fanfare plays]

[♪♪♪]

Welcome to KCYD!

We're so happy
you're visiting us here today.

-What do we say, class?
-Thanks.

Thank you very much!

Yeah.

Uh, so, our station
began broadcasting

all the way back in 1949,

and every day is different.

Hey, that's what makes it fun!

It's Adam Kade!

-[child] What?
-[child] Who's Adam Kade?

The news anchor.

[Todd] That's right, yeah,

Adam's been with the station
for seven years now.

You know, lots of people think

that anchors just read words
off a teleprompter,

but that couldn't be further
from the truth.

In fact, can anyone here

tell me what else
they have to be good at?

Yeah?

They have to read fast,
know current events,

and be good at improvising
during live broadcasts.

Wow. Someone's been studying!

And you're all in luck,

because Adam's about to record
a promo for a tonight's show.

Mm.

Ahem.

You know, why don't we go watch
from the control room?

You know, who knows,
maybe one day,

one of you'll be, uh,
sitting in the anchor's chair.

Tonight,

we'll look into
how one neighborhood

is using technology

to stave off
Christmas porch pirates.

And speaking of technology,

a city comptroller
finds himself in hot water

after a series of holiday
social media posts

have--

[murmuring on set]

Do you always wear
so much makeup?

It's for the bright lights
and HD cameras.

I'm sorry. Who are you?

I'm Robbie Sullivan.

Robbie Sullivan.

I think you might have gotten
lost from your field trip.

These chairs aren't very comfy.

Is that why you never smile?

[he chuckles]

-[kids giggling]
-Where is his teacher?

I'm so sorry.
I-I'll go get Robbie.

No, no, no, no, no.
Let him, uh... let him stay.

Okay, listen, kid--

Robbie Sullivan.

"Robbie Sullivan."

It is not an anchor's job
to smile.

It's to deliver facts
to keep the viewers informed.

Is it also your job

to make people
feel bad about the world?

What?

That's what my mom says,

that watching you makes her
feel bad about the world.

-I...
-She turns off the TV

whenever you come on.

Even at her salon,
they change the channel.

Really? Um...

[Robbie] Why don't you report
on happier things?

Ooh, ooh!

Now, can you ask me a question?
Like you're interviewing me?

Yeah, um...

who's Santa's best reindeer?

[Lucy] Hey, Skylar.

First moment of down time
all day.

Well, everyone wants
to turn heads

during the holiday parties.

Any lunch plans?

Jack's taking me to lunch.
Third date.

Ooh! Sounds promising.

You should try it sometime.

What, dates?

Tried that
after Cal and I got divorced.

No, thanks.

Okay, the chair.

You can't be serious.

It gets clients to open up.

Let it work its magic for you.

Come on.

[chuckling]

What is so wrong with
going on a date here and there?

I don't have the time.

My days are a treadmill.
I can't step off.

My work, running errands,

making dinner...

If I get a moment to myself
before midnight, I...

I mean, it's a miracle.

And on top of that,

I have to make sure
Christmas is magical for Robbie.

You're like Supermom.

How can I make room
for someone else

when I don't even have
enough energy for myself

at the end of the day.

By trusting someone enough
to help you with all that.

I trusted Cal
when he promised me the moon,

and at the end of the day,
he didn't deliver.

You're telling me
you wouldn't change your tune

if someone new showed up,

maybe someone right?

No time for love-life advice.

I am off to pick up supplies

to make popcorn garlands
with Robbie later.

I can pick up
the garland supplies for you.

No, no, no, no, no, no, no.
I will--

I will make it work.
-You sure?

Yes, yes. I got it.

[Skylar] Okay.

[♪♪♪]

[♪♪♪]

[Jill] Rough interview today?

Uh... no.

Um...

some smart-aleck kid told me

I make his mom
feel badly about the world.

His mom,

and apparently everyone
at her work,

turns off the news
when I come on.

Facts are cold and hard, Adam.
That is not new.

So what's got you so rattled?

I'm not really sure.

How did you deal
with people tuning you out

when you were on the desk?

Well, that was
a different time, then.

I mean, viewers weren't
as distracted,

and by the time
things did start to change,

I'd already moved into teaching.

But don't people
want to be informed?

Huh.

I feel like
I'm your professor again,

fielding your questions
in a lecture hall,

but listen,

I did not bring you here
to reminisce about the past.

I want to talk
about your future.

So, word on the street...

is Paul Rada is retiring.

From WQM Chicago?

He's a legend!

A legend who's about to create

a job opening
in a top-10 market.

Top three!

I think you have it in you.

National stories,
in-depth reporting...

this is the brass ring
I've always dreamed about.

-Mm-hmm.
-You know,

I met the head of the station
at an event last year.

-Nathan Selig.
-Yes.

I'm gonna do my best
to try and reconnect you.

Now, they're gonna be looking

for someone who is not
just a strong anchor.

They also want somebody

who is going to reflect well
on the city.

[he chuckles]

Well, I can't think of anyone
with a better reflection.

Oh... please.
Easy there, Ted Baxter.

-[he laughs]
-Honestly.

-[chuckling]
-I'm just saying.

It was so cool!

We got to see the set,

and I even sat
in the anchor chair

and talked to Adam Kade.

[gasping]
What did you tell him?

That you turn off the news
when he's on.

Well, if he saw the world
the way you do,

I'd keep it on.

You'd be
the best news anchor in TV.

You think so?

I could really be a news anchor
one day?

I do.

You can teach
Adam Kade a thing or two.

Sometimes...

you just have to believe

it'll all come through
in the end,

even if we don't know
exactly how.

It's called "having faith."

[they chuckle]

[Lucy] Yes. All right.

How about we finish up
these garlands?

[Robbie] Okay.

[Lucy chuckles]

Oh!

[laughing]

[♪♪♪]

[he chuckles]

[Todd] New hobby?

Um... no.

That-that kid
from the field trip

must have left it behind.

"If found, please return
to Robbie Sullivan,

10 Joslin Street.

Reward offered."

The kid with a suit.

Look, why don't you take him
under your wing?

You know,
like as a holiday intern?

What? Why?

[Todd] Because that's
how I got started.

Then why don't you take him on
as your intern?

Nah, you see,
he wants to be an anchor.

Come on, you can make
his dreams come true.

Where's your Christmas heart?

Have I ever told you

that Christmas is my
least favorite holiday?

Uh, yeah, every time
you offer to work

during said holiday.
-Yeah.

And don't forget, you owe me.

I scored you
tickets to the Eras Tour.

Firstly,
that was a major news event,

so it was in
my professional interest to go,

and secondly,
I took your twins.

I could barely hear Taylor
over their screaming.

Yeah, well,
count yourself lucky.

Why?

They just started
violin lessons.

Ooh.

Hey, look, just-just...

you know, like,
show Robbie the ropes

for a few hours after school
this week...

a little more mensch,
less Grinch.

-Fine.
-Great.

You can deliver the news
in person.

In person?

I'm guessing you don't have
a prior social engagement,

unless you've decided to change
your entire personality.

Mm.

'Tis the season, Adam!

And, hey, I mean,
there's a reward.

-Come on.
-Good man.

[sighing]

[♪♪♪]

[knocking]

-Oh, hi!
-Hi.

Adam Kade?

[he chuckles]

Why are you...

I'm here to collect the reward.

[he chuckles]
You must be Robbie's mom.

Is your very enthusiastic son
home?

I think he might be
looking for this.

Adam Kade is at my house?

Adam Kade
is at my house!

Your very, very
enthusiastic son.

[chuckling] Yes, he is,

and, uh, yes, I am Lucy,
Robbie's mom.

Very nice to meet you,
Lucy, Robbie's mom.

Um, thank you so much for this.

I'm actually also here
to see if Robbie...

wants to follow me around
at work for a week.

What?!

What?

The station wants
to offer Robbie a chance

to see how the newsroom works,

just a few hours after school--

for a week.

Oh, that's-that's
very generous...

[chuckling awkwardly]

...but, um,
I need to think about it.

Your son wants
to be a news anchor.

We're offering him
a peek behind the curtain.

Why the hesitation?

Can you excuse me for a second?

Uh... if you must know,

it is a curtain

that I am unsure
I want him looking behind.

Is this because
watching my reports

make you feel bad
about the world?

He told you that?

Oh! I'm sorry.

The holidays are a time crunch,

and, you know,
I have a lot on my plate.

You're right. This probably
wouldn't have worked out anyway.

All right, well,
it was nice to meet you, Lucy.

You have a nice Christmas.

-You too.
-All right. Thank you.

Wait! Mom, I want to do it!

[sighing] Robbie,

I already have so many holiday
activities planned for us.

Yeah, buddy.
Maybe it's for the best.

You asked me
what I wanted for Christmas.

[sighing]

Okay.

It's beginning
to look a lot

like Christmas with Adam Kade!

Uh, this won't be
all fun and games.

You're there to learn.

So are you.

Excuse me?

My mom said I could

teach you a thing or two
about being a news anchor.

-Robbie!
-Oh, she did, did she?

She might have...

...but we-we don't have
to tell Adam everything I say.

Why? What else did she say?

-She also thinks that--
-[Lucy] Okay!

[Lucy chuckles awkwardly]

Say "thank you" to Adam!

It's time to go.

But what else did she say?

She said,
"Merry Christmas, Mr. Kade."

[chuckling]

[upbeat music plays]

[♪♪♪]

[Robbie] Hello!

Hi.

I'm Robbie Sullivan,
anchor in training.

Cool Christmas sweater.

Are you always so chipper?

I learned in school

that a smile
is the universal greeting.

Try it.

You told me
that I never smile, so--

so... now I have
a reputation to uphold.

What's in your ear?

That's my earpiece.

That's how the control room
talks to me when I'm on air.

Do they let you know
when you talk for too long?

I never talk for too long,

but if I did, which I don't,

they would tell me
in my earpiece.

-Can I try?
-No.

[Todd]
So, this microphone here,

that connects
to a talkback system

that goes to the I.F.B.,

which is the earpiece
in Adam's ear.

Say something.

How about...

locals are concerned
after reports

of a highly unusual boy

roaming
a professional newsroom?

Try it with a smile.

Remember--
universal greeting.

[Adam chuckles] Thank you.

He's right, you know.

[Adam] Remind me what time
your mom's picking you up?

[Lucy] She's here now.

-[Robbie] Mom...
-[Lucy] Hi.

it's too early to pick me up.

I'm just here to watch
part of your first day.

Say, Adam... how do you feel

about giving up the chair
for a minute?

No.

No way!

[Adam] Okay, boss man,
focus up.

In three...

two...

one...

action.

I...

[whispering]
I don't know what to say.

"In weather."
In weather.

In weather...

it will be cold.

Yeah, very cold!

[chuckling] Okay.

Uh, nice one.

Now, "in government."

In government,
things are really boring.

[laughing]

You're a natural.

Give us the business report.

In business,

Christmas tree sales
are up this year,

which is a clear sign

a lot of people

are buying Christmas trees
for Christmas.

Great job. Now take us home.

And that's the news
from KCYD Studios.

This has been
Robbie Sullivan reporting.

Have a Merry Christmas
and good night.

And... we are out!

Whoo!

[chuckling]

[applause]

Now where do we go next?

[sighing] Oh, boy.

[Adam] Another cookie, or...?

[Robbie] Nah, I'm okay.

You drink coffee?

Not yet.

"Not yet." Right, got it. Um...

[Lucy] Hey!

Oh, did you enjoy
your first day, sweetie?

-It was amazing!
-[Adam chuckles]

And how was your first day?

Um... it was...

eventful.

Oh? I'll venture to guess
you don't have kids?

Nope. But I'm starting to see

why people say
it takes a village.

You're looking at the village.

-Ah.
-Come on.

-All right!
-See you tomorrow.

-See you tomorrow.
-See you tomorrow, Adam...

and the day after that,

and the day after that,
and the day after that.

[Adam] Great!

[chuckling] Great.

Great.

[♪♪♪]

♪ Santa, I've been waiting ♪

♪ Don't you know
I've been good all year? ♪

♪ I can barely take it ♪

♪ I want to deck the halls
in holiday cheer ♪

♪ Wrap it in peppermint
ribbons and bows ♪

♪ Walking down candy lanes
covered in snow ♪

♪ Windowpanes dusted
in silver and gold ♪

♪ Oh, oh ♪

♪ Can you feel
that magic in the air ♪

♪ This season
love is everywhere ♪

♪ Let's raise your voice ♪

♪ Get a little
Give a little joy ♪

♪ Can you feel
that magic in the air ♪

And that's the news
from KCYD Studios.

This has been Adam Kade
and Robbie Sullivan reporting.

[both] Have a Merry Christmas
and good night!

[cheering and applauding]

Great job, Robbie.

You really are a natural.
-Thanks.

-Can I?
-Yeah, yeah.

[Adam's phone ringing]

[Adam answers call]

How's my favorite student?

[chuckling] Hoping you have
some good news for me.

[Jill] Oh, you're in luck.

I just spoke with Nathan Selig,

the GM in Chicago,

and he's expecting your call.

Thanks for this.

All my years of
dreaming of a job like this

might finally come true.

I'm ready for it.

[Jill] You sound less rattled.

That means the kid must have
gotten out of your head?

[chuckling] Actually,
uh, he's my intern now.

Long story,

but all he wants is to report
on sunshine and rainbows.

All right, well, you know,

we could all use
a little levity these days.

How long is he at the station?

Tomorrow's his last day.

[Jill]
Ooh, you must be relieved.

Uh...

he was just starting
to grow on me.

Who are you,
and where is Adam Kade?

Right. [laughs]

I just texted you
Nathan's contact...

Great.

...but I want you
to call him as soon as you can,

because everybody in America
is going to want this job

as soon as the word gets out.

Thanks for this, Jill.

[Jill] Aw. You earned it.
Good luck.

Bye.

[ending call]

[exhaling]

[phone dialing]

[call ringing]

This is Nathan.
Leave a message.

[beeping]

Nathan, hi.

This is Adam Kade
with KCYD Minneapolis.

A turtle dove told me
you have a job opening.

I would love
to throw my hat in the ring.

Give me a call
when you get a chance.

I'd love to hear
your thoughts.

Thanks.

[ending call]

[Robbie] Hey, Adam!
What are we doing today?

My mom said I have to be done
by 5:00 p.m. sharp.

Okay, well... [chuckling]

today, I'll show you
the assignment desk,

and then we've got a meeting
to discuss the rundown,

where we pick the stories
for that night's broadcast.

Sweet!

[Adam] Speaking of sweet...

Since it's your last day...

let's make it a sweet one.

This is amazing!

[♪♪♪]

[Adam] So, that was your
first editorial meeting.

What'd you think
about the rundown?

None of those stories
were very happy.

Happy?

Unemployment, bad roads...

budget problems
at City Hall?

Those are important stories,

and important stories
aren't always happy ones.

But can't happy stories
be important too?

Well...

Like the charity my mom and I
are volunteering at tomorrow.

It's called Angel Gifts.

They buy presents
for kids in need.

Okay, well,
that sounds very nice,

but I reported
on the story last week.

But you didn't even mention

the people who started it
were the volunteers.

[Adam] That's called
a human-interest story,

and those are small.

[Robbie]
What's wrong with small?

Um...

Hey! There you are.

We've gotta go.
Where's your backpack?

[Robbie] I'll go get it.

[Lucy] Um...

didn't he tell you
he had to be done by 5:00?

Earth to Adam?

[Adam] Oh, I'm sorry.

Um, a staff meeting ran long.

I needed that time to get home,
make dinner, get him to bed.

Right. Sorry.

[Lucy] Okay, Robbie,
time to say goodbye.

It doesn't have to be "goodbye"
for real, does it?

Um, why don't you
stay for a taping?

Robbie can do his homework
in my office

until the show starts,

and we could all have dinner

to celebrate
what a week it's been.

Can we, Mom? Please?

[Adam] It was my fault
that the meeting ran late,

and this way, you don't have
to scramble to make dinner.

I will take you
to the best place in town.

Beautiful views of the city,

and I promise,
Robbie will love it.

Besides, you have never
actually seen a taping yet.

I think you might like it.

Yeah, Mom,
you might even like it.

[Adam laughs] Yeah, Mom!
You might even like it.

[Adam] As temperatures drop,

city officials
grow more concerned

about providing warm clothing
and food security

for the city's underprivileged.

Mayor Timothy Finnegan
has appealed to city leaders

to secure
additional funding.

Mom, wasn't
the taping awesome?

It is amazing
how many people it takes

to bring the news to life.

So does that mean

you'll be watching my face
on a TV screen every night?

I don't know about that.

Ouch! [laughing]

But seriously,

I mean, after a whole week
of seeing behind the scenes,

what would it take
to get you to watch the news?

Well, for starters...

maybe wear something
more exciting,

like adding more color
to your wardrobe?

Change my signature look?

Never.

[chuckling]

-Well, in all honesty...
-Okay?

At the end of the day,

there's just not much time
to watch the news,

and if there is...

why would I want to be reminded

of everything wrong
in the world?

That's not all the news is.

Mm, sure feels like it.

Mom, I left my backpack
in the control room.

Can I go get it?

Yes, but be careful
around that equipment, okay?

Mom... I'm a professional.

[Adam laughs]

He is intrepid,
I give him that.

You know you're the only anchor
he watches, right?

Really?

Guess there's
a lot of things you don't know

until you ask.

People are more than
just what they do,

what is "newsworthy."

Sometimes
people just want facts.

Yeah, but...
facts without heart?

That's not gonna get me
to tune in.

What would...
get you to tune in?

Okay.

Stories where...

I don't just...
learn what happened.

I feel why it matters.

Elaborate.

Well, when I talk
to the people at the salon,

I feel their...

their joys, their hopes...

and struggles,

and that makes me
feel connected.

That.

That's what I want
from the news.

And you know you can do that.

You-you-you have the ability
to find people's stories

and share them with the world.

[chuckling softly]

Okay. We'll see.

[♪♪♪]

[Adam] All right, all right.

Todd?

Yeah, I'll call you back.

Yeah?

What do you think
about my suits?

I mean, do you think
they lack personality?

-Personality?
-Mm-hmm.

Gray is the color of facts,
you know?

Your suits suit you just fine.

Just focus on
delivering the news, okay?

Yeah. Oh!

Sorry.

Do you think
I should smile more?

You smile enough
for the both of us.

I do, don't I?

Yeah, you do!
And don't forget

that this is a serious business.

It's a serious job.

You're doing
everything right.

But what if
there's more to the job

than doing everything right?

There's not.

You're perfect.
-I am.

-Yeah. Okay.
-Yeah.

Yeah. Perfect.

[♪♪♪]

I think we got it all.

Baseball glove for Danny,

ballet slippers for Rachel,

art supplies for Lina.

They're gonna be so happy

when they open their presents
on Christmas morning!

Can I get a new Adam Kade suit
for Christmas?

[she sighs]

Can you just want a football,

or a video game,
or all the video games?

Mom, I'm pretty much
a news anchor,

and I need the right outfit.

Clothes make the man!

[she sighs and chuckles]

Do you really need
another gray suit?

Because if we're buying clothes,

we should be getting you
an outfit

for the Christmas concert
that's coming up fast.

Oh! And what's the-the song
your class is singing?

[Robbie] Ugh.
I don't want to do a song.

Maybe I could be a news anchor
and even get help from...

Adam Kade!

[chuckling]

Robbie Sullivan here,
reporting live

with the impressively dressed
Adam Kade.

What are you doing here?

Reporting live!
I just said that.

Mr. Kade, sources say
you're the perfect guy

to help a kid

be a news anchor for
his school Christmas concert.

-[Adam chuckles]
-Do you care to comment, sir?

Um... I don't know.

It's a pretty busy time
right now.

Please?

I've been practicing
my sign-offs,

just like you taught me.

And it looks like
you might even have the outfit.

[Adam laughs]

I'd be happy to.

We'll make you
practically professional.

[Robbie] Ooh!

What are you doing tonight?

Want to come to Angel Gifts?

We're going to help
a ton of people.

Thank you,

but I have
some work-related things

I have to think about.

Well, if you change your mind,
it really is a wonderful event.

It's the perfect place
to see the good in the world.

You might even like it.

Yeah, Adam!
You might even like it!

[he laughs]

When you put it that way...

I gotta watch you two.

[♪♪♪]

♪ Dashing through the snow ♪

♪ In a one-horse
open sleigh... ♪

Okay, here we go.

♪ Laughing all the way ♪

My mom always
has to give things 110%.

Well, since she
had to work late,

it's up to you
to keep me in line.

Just pretend you're an elf
at Santa's workshop.

It's been a long time

since I wrapped
a Christmas present.

You don't wrap your presents?

No need to wrap a gift card.

-Gift card?
-Mm-hmm.

Don't you want to make
your presents special?

What's more special

than letting the recipient
pick the present they want

with a gift card?

[paper crinkling]

The parents are here!

[♪♪♪]

[♪♪♪]

[Adam] Ah, thank you.

Okay. Here we go.

[woman] Hi.

[Adam] Hi.

I'm picking up for my daughter,
Rachel Smith.

Rachel Smith.

Okay, Ra... Rachel Smith.

Ah. Okay-- Rachel Smith.

Um, ballet slippers, right?

My mom used to tell her stories
of dancing ballet

when she was a little girl.

Rachel's been dreaming
of learning ballet ever since.

Here you are.

You don't know
how much this means.

It's a...

a wonderful thing
you're doing here.

I just wrapped a few presents.

[woman] No, no.

You've done more than you know.

Thank you.

Merry Christmas!

[whispers] So much better
than a gift card.

[Adam sighs]

[gasping] Hey!

Hey, Mom!

Hey. Oh...

Did you have a good time?

I'm so sad I missed it.

It was the best.

[Adam] Thank you both
for inviting me.

I'm really happy I came.

Hey, who started Angel Gifts?

[Lucy] You should meet...

Excuse me. You're Susie, right?

I'm Adam.

I hear you founded
Angel Gifts.

Yes. But I had
a little guidance

and encouragement
along the way.

After I got the idea,
I went to Thrivent,

and they helped me
figure out my finances

so that I could
make it a reality,

and now it's thanks
to volunteers like you

that it continues.

About that,

I'm with KCYD News,
and I was wondering,

would you be willing
to let me profile you

and your story?

Oh, I'd be happy to.

[♪♪♪]

[Susie]
It's really the volunteers

who give our community hope

and the spirit of generosity

when it matters most.

[Adam]
I can't thank you enough

for allowing me
the chance to see

what Angel Gifts
is really all about.

Yeah, yeah,
it's a sweet story,

but it's soft,

and soft doesn't
keep people engaged.

But maybe a story like this
could draw in new viewers.

Or lose us the ones we have.

Please. Just stick
to the script, okay?

Maybe your wardrobe update
can carry it...

but you need a better tie.

A better tie?

I just got this tie!

What's wrong with my tie?

♪ Dashing through the snow ♪

♪ In a one-horse open sleigh ♪

♪ O'er the fields we go ♪

♪ Laughing all the way ♪

♪ Bells on bobtails ring ♪

♪ Making spirits bright ♪

♪ What fun it is
to ride and sing ♪

[dialing phone]

[Jill] Oh, great timing.

I was just about to call you.

You go first.

Listen, did you ever push back
on a producer's wishes

to include a story?

If I cared deeply
about it, yes.

-Okay.
-I did.

And how did it go?

Well, sometimes they'd run it,

most of the time,
they didn't,

but hey, you win some,
you lose some.

Well, in this case,
I think I might be losing.

If you're gonna fight
for a story,

and really fight for it,

then you have to know
why it matters,

and not just to your audience,
but to you as well.

So tell me,
why is this one worth it?

I don't know exactly.

I just have a feeling
that it is.

I, uh, I spoke with Nathan.

You've been shortlisted
for the Chicago desk.

This is a big moment.

I mean, you-you are so good
at what you do,

and Chicago has taken notice.

Yeah...

but how do I become great
at what I do?

Well, you have to have focus,
which you have, and you...

you have to work hard,
which you do,

and a whole lot of faith.

Right.

Okay, thanks. Talk soon.

[ending call]

[♪♪♪]

[child pointing]

[Lucy] Oh...

feels like just yesterday,
you were that big.

[Robbie] It's a good thing
I've grown up since then.

Too fast, if you ask me.

I'm 10.
I'm pretty much an adult.

Can I go do
the gingerbread houses

with the elves after?

Building houses
is a very adult thing to do.

Yes, you can,
and you know what?

I'm gonna get
some shopping done quickly,

but the most important
question is--

do you remember
your Christmas wish?

[Robbie] Definitely!

[Lucy] Adam?

Mom, that wasn't even my wish!

Hey, you two.

Well... this is
a merry coincidence.

Maybe the holiday spirit

just pointed me
in the right direction.

It has a way
of working its magic.

[both chuckling]

What are you doing here?

Well... someone pretty smart

told me
I need to up my style game.

Is Angel Gifts
gonna be on the show tonight?

Unfortunately, no.

Todd nixed it.

Oh.

Are you ready

to meet Santa Claus
and tell him your wish?

Okay.

All right.
I'll see you in 15.

[♪♪♪]

I just wanted
to say thank you

for what you've done
for Robbie.

[laughs] He's a great kid,

even if he's got
a million questions a minute.

[both chuckling]

And you take the time to listen
and answer them.

Not everyone does.

That means a lot.

Must be
my journalism background.

You going up?

Yeah.

After you.

It was so wonderful

watching you
interview Susie yesterday.

You weren't treating it
like it was just a headline.

Thanks.

It's just a shame the world
won't get to see it.

Well, maybe they can
still see you.

There's more
to the man behind the desk

than meets the eye.

[he chuckles] I'm not sure

I'm ready to make
that kind of leap.

Well, every leap
starts with a little faith.

Just show them more
of what I see.

[he chuckles]

[♪♪♪]

Next up, the rolling blackouts
on Delaney Street.

15 seconds till we're back.

The lights too hot?
You're sweating.

I'm fine.

Thank you.

[Todd]
And we're back in five...

four...

three... two...

one.

Welcome back.

The rolling blackouts
on Delaney Street

put a damper

on what's usually
a bright spot.

[♪♪♪]

Did we lose...

[Todd] Keep reading, Adam.

[clearing his throat]

But...

there is one bright spot,

Angel Gifts,

a charity that's making

some local families'
Christmas wishes come true.

[Todd] Stick
to the script, Adam.

I've covered holiday charities
before, but tonight...

[Todd] Adam...

...I want to introduce you
to some volunteers

that are making a difference
in our very own community.

[commotion in control room]

Okay, what is he doing?

Hey! What are you doing?

[Adam] Susie...

along with
the sponsors at Thrivent,

you have helped
thousands of families

through Angel Gifts.

How did it all start?

[Susie] With one child.

Mom! My wish to Santa
came true!

[Susie]
A couple of Christmases ago,

I was at the post office,

and I saw a little girl
mailing a letter to Santa.

She wasn't asking for toys.

She was asking for a backpack

because her old one
had ripped apart,

and her parents
couldn't afford a new one,

but I couldn't
get it out of my mind.

The next day,
I went to the post office

and asked if there were
more letters like hers.

There were hundreds.

[Adam] And what did
it make you realize?

That I could be somebody
who does something,

who puts good into the world.

It's easy to think

kindness is someone else's
responsibility.

Until you realize
you're that somebody.

It seems to me

that the real gift
you're giving for Christmas

is hope, Susie.

[Susie]
It's really the volunteers

who give our community hope
and the spirit of generosity

when it matters most.

I can't thank you enough

for allowing me
the chance to see

what Angel Gifts
is really all about.

Hope is something
we could all use right now,

but it's not just a word.

Thanks to Susie
and her volunteers,

hope is something
you can hold in your hands

on Christmas morning.

I'm Adam Kade with KCYD News,

and tonight,

thank you for letting me tell
a different kind of story.

[assistant director]
And... we're out.

What just happened?

[Adam] Huh?

[Todd] Hey. Hey, hey, hey, hey.

I thought we agreed
not to do the charity story.

It was one segment
out of the hour.

You don't understand.

I'm trying to keep
this whole place afloat.

Well, sure,
you're the producer, so--

No, Adam!

Our parent company
wants to make cuts...

across the board.

They do?

Yeah, and I've been
desperately trying

not to give them reasons to,

especially
around the holidays.

That's why I've been so worried
that a change in direction

could hurt us.

Okay, wait, wait,
wait, wait, wait.

You're saying and thinking

that a story like this
can make the people tune out?

We can't take that chance.

You know...

I can't remember the last time
you called in vacation days.

Vacation?

Yeah, you know, now seems
like the perfect time.

-Todd--
-We can have Kim sub in.

But listen--

[Todd] I'm-I'm sorry,

but why don't you take
some holiday R&R?

It'll be good for you.

Yeah.

[Adam] Todd...

Todd!

[sighing]

[Lucy hums festively]

[gasping]
Cookies for breakfast?

[chuckling]

Nice try.

Cookies for later.

I was feeling inspired.

By what?

Adam's news story?

Can we bring cookies to Adam
to thank him for his story?

I am sure he's busy.

[gasping]
Let's call him!

Robbie! Robbie, wait! Wait!

-[video call dialing]
-[gasps] Ahem.

[video call ringing]

Well, hello.

Adam! It's me,
Robbie Sullivan.

Hello, Robbie Sullivan.

Are you too busy
for gingerbread men?

You don't appear
to be at school.

I'm on vacation,

and we want to bring you
gingerbread men.

Are you... at work?

Actually...
I'm on vacation too.

Is that your house?

Where are
your Christmas decorations?

I...

am not in a Christmas mood,
actually, so...

Mom, this is an emergency!

A man has lost
his Christmas spirit!

Oh...

Robbie...
you might be right.

Everything about
what you got going on there

needs a little
Christmas spirit.

Maybe.

Ooh! Adam, if you're not
decorating your house today,

we need your help decorating!

Mom will text you
the address.

Uh... okay.

See you there.

[beeps call off]

[sighs]

Mom, Adam's going to help.

You know I'll always
be here for you, right?

You're my number one.

You know I'll always be here
for you too, right?

You're my number one.

[chuckling] Oh...

[lively festive
instrumental plays]

Where do the magical
Christmas clouds go?

Um...

Excuse me.

Hey.

-Hey.
-All right, here you go.

Thank you.

Oh, pardon me, uh, Mr. Kade?

Please, just Adam.

-Adam.
-Yes?

That piece you did
on Angel Gifts

was just wonderful.

It-- it didn't even
feel like the news.

Thank you for sharing it

and reminding everybody
that there's good in the world,

especially this time of year.

Thank you.

That...
means more than you know.

Hey.

No one's ever come up to me
like that before,

or at least not
to say something so kind.

She's right.

You've made
quite the impression,

and not just on her.

[he chuckles]

Uh... I mean, on Robbie.

-Right, Robbie.
-You've made

quite the impression on him,

and I have to admit,
usually I'm really good

at reading people
in my line of work,

but you impressed me.

Oh, thank you.

Ms. Somerville,

instead of singing carols
at the Christmas concert,

can I be a news anchor
and tell a Christmas story?

Oh, well,
the show's coming up.

It's not a lot of time
to change things.

Yeah, but guess who's
helping me?

[Ms. Somerville]
I don't know, Robbie.

Santa Claus?

No! Adam Kade.

Oh, a close second to Santa!

Adam... tell her!

Um, I'd be happy
to participate,

if it doesn't get in the way.

It won't get in the way.

The world must be informed.

Well, I suppose you two
better do it, then.

[she chuckles]

You know, I forgot how much fun
it was to decorate.

I mean, I haven't
decorated like this

since I was a kid.

What?

...what?

[♪♪♪]

What?

♪ Christmas
is that time of year ♪

♪ When we gather round
to hear ♪

♪ Words of love
and good cheer ♪

♪ From all the people ♪

♪ Let us speak of giving ♪

♪ Speak of joy to all mankind ♪

♪ Let us light our dark nights
with illumination ♪

♪ Pour yourself
a glass of wine ♪

♪ Let us toast
to a beautiful time ♪

♪ Christmas
is that time of year ♪

Here you go.

Thank you.

[he chuckles]

Ooh.

You know,

I haven't done
Christmas like this

for a long time.

I didn't know
how much I missed it.

Does your family live nearby?

My parents are a couple hours
from here.

Oh. That's great.

[chuckling]

Mine are in Florida.

Traded snow for sand.

It must be nice
to have family close.

Honestly...
I don't see them that much.

When I started
at the station,

I took every shift
that was thrown at me.

You know, breaking news
didn't wait for family dinners.

Even at Christmas?

I worked the Christmas shift.

[chuckling]
Believe it or not...

this was my favorite holiday
growing up.

We always had a big party.

All my family would
pack into the house--

too many suitcases,
not enough beds...

but it just felt like

where everyone
was supposed to be.

It's never too late

to find your way back
to the things that matter.

Maybe I'm already
finding my way.

Oh!

[both chuckling]

Not just a lump of coal
in there.

Don't tell anyone.

Your secret's safe with me.

[chuckling] Oh...

Okay!

Thank you for today.

For...

for everything.

Oh... it was nothing.

It was something to me.

[he sighs]

Oh!

We missed one!

Did we? Okay.

[Lucy] Come on.

[Adam] Okay, I'm coming,
I'm coming, I'm coming.

There.

Okay... all right.

[exhaling] And now...

the best part.

[she inhales deeply]

[both inhaling deeply,
then exhaling]

Now it feels like Christmas.

Mm...

[♪♪♪]

Ahem.

Um...

I should probably go.

I understand.

♪ Mm ♪

[call ringing]

♪ The first snow
falls in the night ♪

♪ Let's go out and have a look ♪

[phone ringing]

Most anchors
don't answer work calls

when they're on vacation.

Yeah, well...

most anchors don't deliver

the most-viewed segment
of the year.

What?

We've had more call-ins
than we do in a whole month.

People are feeling inspired--

Wow!

Okay, okay!

Yeah, and, uh...

you were following your gut.
I should've listened.

I'm sorry.

You had every reason
to be concerned.

Yeah, well, anyway, look,

here's what I'm thinking--

I think we mix up our slate...

a deeper, more uplifting side

to our typical
holiday coverage.

Well, I'm still on vacation,
so...

Hmph! Vacation's over.

[laughing]

Wow.

[Lucy] Adam!

-Mm-hmm.
-That's exciting news.

I wanted you to be the first
to hear it.

[phone chimes]

[Adam chuckles]

[Robbie] What is it?

It's nothing.

Just someone saying
they liked my report.

So what's your next story
gonna be?

Um, I haven't
quite figured it out yet.

But, um, there's
this opportunity, I think,

that--
-Can I get you sugar plums

anything?

The recipe
for these peppermint scones.

They're delicious.

Oh, bless your heart!

It's my husband's recipe.

He's in the back,
whipping up a fresh batch.

We box up bakery care packages

and deliver them to folks
who could use a little warmth.

That's so lovely.

Well, it's our way of saying,
"You're not forgotten."

I think a lot of people

would love to hear that
at Christmas.

[♪♪♪]

If you've got a warm oven,

then you've got
something to give.

Each time we bake,

we always make
a little bit extra

so we can give it to those
who don't have as much.

How can I help?

You can start packing up
this box of cookies.

[laughter]

And that's what helped a couple

go from an idea

to a community icon.

There's more good in the world
than people think.

Sometimes you just have
to open your door to see it.

You used to turn that off.

Now look at you.

[chuckling]

I'm Adam Kade,
and tonight,

I hope you find
your door to open.

[♪♪♪]

[gasps]

Oh, no.

My client Cheryl asked
to push later today...

but I gotta pick Robbie up!

Maybe you could ask

a certain news anchor
you couldn't take your eyes off

to help you out.

Adam? I can't!

Why not?

Be-- because!

If I ask for help this one time,

before I know it,
I'll be relying on someone.

And what's so wrong
with that?

You know what happened
the last time I did that!

When it comes to my kid,

I want to be able to stand
on my own two feet.

And make sure
he's taken care of,

I get it,

but you don't
have to be an island

and do everything yourself.

Find your door to open.

You--

I'm sure Robbie would love
an afternoon with Adam.

[sighing]

Hmm.

[exhaling]

[call ringing]

[Adam] Hello?

Hi. Hi, Adam.

So, I was wondering if...

Yes?

Um, you would be able to...

pick up Robbie this afternoon?

[chuckling] You mean help?

Yes. Those are the words.

[laughing]

I wonder what it sounds like
when you say it.

Are you really
making me do this?

Definitely!

Okay, fine.

Can you please... help me

this afternoon?

Never thought I'd see the day.

[chuckling]

I'd be more than happy
to entertain

the great Robbie Sullivan.

We can work on his idea

for the Christmas concert.

Thank you. Thank you.
I'll text you the details.

Okay, sounds good.

[exhaling deeply]

[♪♪♪]

I'm proud of you.

Desperate times. That's all.

-You're making excuses, girl.
-No, I'm not.

[♪♪♪]

[Robbie] This place is amazing!

[Adam] I was tipped off
to a story,

and I thought
we should check it out.

[Robbie]
Partridge in a pear tree!

Just like the 12 days
of Christmas.

Mm-hmm.

Good eye, young sir.

Every December,
for 12 days straight,

the park grants me permission
to fill this place with wonder.

A partridge in a pear tree,
two turtle doves,

and onward we go.

All the way
to 12 drummers drumming?

The whole parade.

I'm told
you decorate all these

for someone special.

I sure do.

For Rona.

For Rona? And who is Rona?

[he chuckles]

The one who got away.

Hmm.

I'm Adam Kade.

This is Robbie.

It's a pleasure
to meet you both.

This is truly beautiful.

Thank you.

Rona and I met
in this very spot

40 years ago, over Christmas.

I was an art school dreamer,

and she was a busker
in a red peacoat.

[Adam chuckles]

It was love at first sight.

How did you know
it was love?

Because I was
the best version of myself

when I was with her.

I didn't want
to leave her side.

That's a special feeling

when you find someone
that makes you feel that.

Rona was visiting town
for 12 days.

We joked that
it was just like the song,

the 12 Days of Christmas.

[Adam chuckles]

And you were each other's gift.

Couldn't have said it better,

but then there was
an emergency back home

before the 12th day,

and she had to leave...

on Christmas Eve, no less.

And then we lost touch.

But you never forgot her.

Never.

So every winter,

I decorate
these trees in her honor,

to finish
the 12 days of Christmas

that we never
got to have together.

And...

you're spreading a little love
and light to others as well.

[both chuckling]

What do you hope
people take away from it?

You just said it. Hope.

I want to give others
the hope

that they can experience
what Rona and I had...

no matter how brief it was.

And isn't that
what we're all after?

A little hope over the holidays?

I'm Adam Kade.

Thanks for watching.

Thank you.
-Thank you.

So...
you think we got a story?

Definitely.

[Adam] After you, my man.

[Robbie] Mom!

The park was lit up,

and Adam let me
watch an interview!

[she laughs]

I'm gonna go work on ideas
for the Christmas concert.

-Okay!
-I'm Skylar.

I know who you are.
I love the show.

Thank you.

[♪♪♪]

Thank you so much
for helping me out today.

I mean, it sounds like
you had a magical time.

Any other time
you need a hand.

I really hope
you take me up on it.

I just might.

Um... listen.

We, um, we saw something
really special today,

and...

I would like
to show it to you.

Maybe after tonight's broadcast?

Um, R-Robbie is headed
to a friend's

for dinner tonight--

-Right, right.
-...but I-I guess...

I could rearrange
some errands...

She's free tonight.

She says you're free.

[awkwardly] Mm-hmm.

Uh-huh?

Okay! Great.

[♪♪♪]

[Lucy gasps]

He does all this for her?

-Yeah.
-Oh...

So romantic.

Now that I think about it,

I guess you could've watched
my show tonight and seen it.

Then I wouldn't
be here with you.

[they chuckle]

[she sighs]

My favorite park
at my favorite time of year.

Oh.

My client had to cancel today.

She said money was too tight,

and a haircut
felt like a luxury.

Mm.

The stories
you've been reporting on

gave me an idea.

I could...

give free haircuts
once a month

to anyone who needs one.

That's really wonderful.

In between
everything that you do,

you still find
a way to help others.

Well, helping my community
matters to me.

It seems I'm not the only one.

[he chuckles]

Your stories
are helping people...

shining a light
on all the good around us.

Any anchor
would have done the same.

But would the old Adam
have done it?

[he chuckles]

You were right...

about me needing to find
the soul of a story,

and why it matters.

I didn't know
if you would take it to heart.

I didn't know
how much I needed to.

It's only the beginning.

How do you do that?

Do what?

You just...

make everything seem so...

possible,

even when I can't see it yet.

Sometimes,

you just have to believe
there's a way...

♪ Don't leave me ♪

...before you can see it.

♪ Under the mistletoe... ♪

Whoo!

Wait, wait, wait, wait, wait.

I got you. Here.

There we go.

Cold doesn't stand a chance.

Thank you.

[both chuckling]

♪ Under the... ♪

It's coming down.

♪ ...mistletoe ♪

[♪♪♪]

[door bells jingle]

-Hey!
-Hey.

You here for cut and color?

Of course. [laughing]

So, um...

Todd asked me
to find more stories,

and I remember
you once said

that your clients kept you
connected to the community.

So you thought,
"What better place to look?"

Exactly.

It's been
right in front of me...

all along.

Well, allow me
to introduce you to...

♪ We're bringing joy
to your world ♪

♪ And a merry Christmas ♪

♪ Joy to your world ♪

More. Okay.

You could interview
Lynn's husband.

His woodworking shop
does cribs for Christmas.

Cribs? Awesome! Okay.

A-And my daughter Mykah's
piano teacher, Edith,

gives free concerts
of classic holiday songs.

[Adam] Okay.

Yeah, M-Y-K-A...

-Okay, "M-Y-K-A--"
-Yeah.

Okay, I love that. I love that.
Okay, awesome, awesome.

Okay, Mykah, okay--

[exhaling] Okay!

[Adam laughing]

All right, yes. Okay, okay.

Tell us more.

It's called scarf-bombing.

We take the excess scraps,
and we turn them into scarves,

and we tie them
onto lampposts, fences,

and gates all around town
to help those in need.

If you see a scarf
out in the wild,

you know someone cared enough

to leave
a little warmth behind.

[♪♪♪]

Just be sure
to save me a scone or two.

[chuckling]

Merry Christmas
and happy holidays...

and at Christmas,

we must remember
to take care of those

who take care of others.

Muriel Bernhardt found
a passion for reading

early on,

and could not wait
to find a way to share it

with others,

and that's how Muriel Bernhardt
of Muriel's Books

turned her love of reading
into a holiday offer.

For every book purchased
in December,

Muriel donates three books
to local schools.

[he sighs]

You look good
sitting at my old desk.

[he laughs]
Do you miss it?

Ah, I think teaching
was the right thing for me.

The, uh, holiday shopping
go a little overboard?

Those are donations
from the viewers.

They've been flooding
the studio.

People want to support

the charities
we've been covering.

Perhaps Chicago
will feel the same.

I haven't heard from them yet,

and to tell you the truth,
the Chicago job's

been the farthest thing
from my mind.

Adam!

There's a call for you.

You're gonna want to take it.

[Adam] Thank you.

Uh, this is Adam Kade.

[woman] Hello?

Hi.

I'm calling about the story
of the man in the park

who once met a woman
in a red peacoat?

Okay. Yes.

Well, you see...

the woman in the red peacoat
is me!

[♪♪♪]

Um, could you
hold one second, please?

There!

That's how it feels
when taking a risk works.

Well done, Adam.

I am so proud of you.

Now you go and finish the story.

Okay.

[chuckling]

Hi.

I am so glad you called.

Your story
really connected with people,

but today's the last tree.

"12 drummers drumming."

And I'll start again
next Christmas.

Haven't enough Christmases
gone by?

[voice cracks] Rona?

-Hi, Marty!
-Oh!

Oh!

[♪♪♪]

[Adam] Turning now

to a new chapter of a story
you may already know,

a few nights ago,

we introduced you to Marty,

a retired art teacher

who decorates trees
each December

in honor of a long-ago love,

and the hope that one day,
she might find her way back.

I'm happy to report
that tonight, she did.

Rona walked into that park,

and just like that,
what once was a memory

became a second chance.

There's a line Marty said
during our first interview

that I have not
been able to shake.

He said,

"I was the best version
of myself

when I was with her."

That stuck with me.

Maybe because it's rare

to meet someone
who doesn't just see you,

but sees the best in you

and helps you
to see it for yourself.

So, tonight, Marty and Rona...

thank you for reminding us

that if we are lucky,
love finds a way.

That was
such a beautiful story.

I'm really glad you found it.

Thank you. Me too.

Listen, um...

I got you something.

Really?

Yes, sir. [chuckling]

Okay.

So, for as long
as I've known you,

you've gotten everyone
gift cards,

so what is this?

You mentioned
that the twins started...

[overlapping]
...violin lessons.

Yes, and so I thought
those might come in handy.

That's very thoughtful.

Yeah, you should hear 'em
practicing "Silent Night."

Oh...

It's anything but.

[both laughing]

Merry Christmas, Todd.

Merry Christmas, Adam.

[door bell jingling]

Oh, thank you so much
for getting those groceries.

I've hardly had any time,

and I didn't want to order in
again tonight.

I'm just happy you asked.

[phone ringing]

Hello?

Hi.

Um...

so, I did something
kind of out of character.

[he chuckles]

I called in a vacation day
for tomorrow...

a real one this time.

Oh, good for you.

What are you gonna do with it?

Well, my parents throw

this holiday party
every year,

and I was thinking

that maybe you and Robbie

would like to come?

Oh, I'm sure
Robbie would love to,

but, um...

he'll be at his dad's.

Ah, okay.

Um, well,
if you're still free,

maybe you...

would like to come

as my, uh...

uh, as my, um...

As your...

Date?

Can you hold on
for a second?

Sure.

Skylar, he's asking me
out on a date.

Why'd you go on mute?
Say yes!

I don't know if I'm ready.

He's making room for you
in his life.

Now is your chance
to do the same.

What could go wrong?

I don't know. Everything?

Maybe instead, ask yourself
what could go right.

Back.

So, um...

yes.

That'd be great.

-Great! Great!
-Yes.

I mean...
I was hoping you'd say that.

So, um...

pick you up at 6:00?

See you tomorrow.

See you
tomorrow.

-Good night.
-Good night.

[he exhales]

[sighing] Okay.

Was that Adam?

Yes.

Are you going on a date?

Um...

well...

It's okay, Mom.

I want you to be happy.

You're what makes me happy.

You can have
more than one happy.

When did you get so smart?

I've always been smart!

[♪♪♪]

Welcome, welcome.

So your family doesn't
even know you're coming?

Well, I thought
it'd be fun to surprise them.

[woman] Adam?

-[gasping]
-Merry Christmas, Mom!

-Oh!
-[laughing]

I thought
you were working tonight.

Being here is more important.

Oh... Jack, look who's here!

Adam?

As seen on TV!
Bring it in, son.

Here you are.

Mom, Dad, this is Lucy.

Lucy, these are my parents,
Norma and Jack.

Nice to meet you.

Well, you get
one of these, too!

-Oh!
-[laughter]

Oh.

[Norma] That was the year
I knit matching sweaters

for the whole family.

Of course,

Adam got a growth spurt
the week before,

and barely fit.

Oh!

[Adam] She knitted me

this absurdly long one
the next year,

just in case I kept growing.

[chuckles]

It had Dasher
right on the front.

It was my favorite.

I wore it so much
that the edges began to fray.

It is so wonderful
having you here.

I feel the same way, Mom.

Wait, you put out
a stocking for me?

But you didn't even know
I was coming home.

We put out a stocking
every year.

Makes us feel like
you're not so far away.

And... it's tradition.

Tradition is important.

Thank you.

For what, son?

For being supportive of me,

even when I've had to let
too many Christmases go by.

I know it wasn't easy,

and I promise
I won't let it happen again.

This is your home, Adam.

Always has been,
always will be.

[♪♪♪]

Cheers.

I never used to notice
nights like this.

They're beautiful,

when you take the moment
to look around.

[Adam] I was always
too busy for that.

Always working.

I thought being busy
made me important...

...but then
I met you and Robbie...

[he chuckles]

...and it's like

my whole world slowed down...

in the best way.

For the longest time,

I thought it was my job
to stay outside the story.

Not get emotional, not get...

Close?

Exactly.

I didn't realize
how closed off I had become.

[she chuckles]

You know what's funny?

What?

I thought I was fine
on my own too.

I'd built this little island,

me and Robbie.

Now I look up...

and you're there.

You keep showing up...

for the both of us.

I didn't expect
any of this to happen.

[they laugh]

Me neither...

...but I'm happy it is.

[Adam] Me too.

[♪♪♪]

[Adam's phone rings]

[sighs] Oh...

[they laugh]

-Uh--
-That's okay.

Take the call.

[ringing]

Sorry, just, um, just give me
one second, okay?

Nathan, hi.

Adam! Good news--

you're making major waves,
especially with that, uh...

long-lost love piece.

They want you in the studio
for an interview.

That's fantastic. Well, when?

Tomorrow.
I know it's tight,

but this thing is moving fast.

I didn't realize
you'd be meeting with people

before the holidays.

Well, we want
the new anchor

to hit the ground running
top of the year.

So, can I tell everyone you'll
be on that morning flight?

Yes, absolutely.

See you in Chicago tomorrow.

This is a huge opportunity,

and I appreciate
the chance at it.

Thanks, Adam.

Okay, thank you.

[he chuckles]

Chicago?

Um...

yeah, there's an opening
for a lead anchor position.

So you're...

you're leaving?

It's just an interview.

Um...

Is that what everything's
been about?

What do you mean?

Oh. The new Adam.

[he groans]

Opening up on air...

the connections
you've made with people, um...

was it all just to get noticed
for a bigger job?

No. No.

No, that was all real.

You can trust me on that.

Then...

then why did
you keep this from me?

There was never the right time
to bring it up,

and-and-and maybe...

maybe I was afraid
of what it would mean.

So...

you let me believe
that this could be something.

You...

let Robbie believe.

This is something.

I promise you, it is.

Yeah, but...

if your interview goes well...

...you would leave.
-I don't know.

I don't know!

I knew this was a mistake.

No, wait, wait.
Lucy, Lucy! I--

I-It's not even me
I'm worried about.

I've been here before,
but...

but Robbie?

You made promises to him.

I meant them,
and I still do.

[she sighs]

Can you keep them?

[he sighs shakily]

At least let me
explain it to him.

[sighing]

I am so sorry,

but I-I don't think
this is a good idea.

Good luck in Chicago.

Really. Uh...

I really hope it is
everything you're looking for.

Wait, Lucy.

Lucy, I...

Lucy!

[door closes]

[he sighs]

[♪♪♪]

[she sighs]

Why can't Adam be here?

He was supposed to help me

with my video
for the Christmas concert.

I know, sweetheart.

I wish
things were different too.

But...

he has a big opportunity
in Chicago,

something he has been
looking towards for a long time,

and we both decided that...

it'd be better

if we give him space
to figure that out.

But why?

I don't want him to leave.

[sighing]

You know how, every year,

we pick out
the perfect Christmas tree?

And we bring it home,
and we decorate it,

and it stays
until the holidays are over?

Well, Adam was like our tree.

He came into our lives
to shine...

just at the right time,

and he brought us joy...

and memories...

but, like our tree,
he can't stay forever.

[sighs] But I want him to.

Oh, honey...

sometimes grown-up stuff
is complicated...

...but that doesn't
change the fact

that he cares about you,

and it definitely doesn't change
how proud I am of you.

Okay.

[sighing resolutely]

[she laughs tenderly]

Oh!

[♪♪♪]

♪ Four calling birds ♪

♪ Three French hens ♪

♪ Two turtle doves ♪

♪ And a partridge ♪

♪ In a pear tree ♪

[applause]

Thank you
to my fifth-grade class

for the wonderful performance!

And that concludes
our annual Christmas concert.

-[door creaks open]
-I hope you all--

Wait, wait, wait!
Wait, wait, wait!

Wait, I'm sorry.

There's still
one more performance.

Adam!

[Adam] Sorry.

Hey! Ready to get out there

and show 'em what you got?

But we never filmed a segment.

We don't need it.

What's a skill

that a news anchor
has to be good at?

Improvising
during live broadcasts.

Mm-hmm.

I have an idea!

Okay.

But... I'm nervous.

You believed in me,

that I was capable of something
I didn't even see in myself.

Now, I'm here because
I believe in you, okay?

We can do this.

-Yeah!
-Come on.

[Adam] Uh, we'll be right back.

[he laughs]

-Adam Kade.
-Yes.

You're used to asking
the tough questions,

but tonight,
you're the one in the hot seat.

Uh-oh. Is it too late
to back out?

Not unless you could outrun
a fifth grader.

[laughter]

First question.

Your reporting used to be
all facts, no frosting.

What made you shake things up?

I met a certain 10-year-old

who asked me why I didn't report
on happier things.

That kid sounds like a genius!

[laughter]

He sure is,

and he helped me realize

that what I put out in the world
matters.

That's what made
all the difference.

Somewhere along the way,

I stopped just
reporting on this community.

I became a part of it.

The truth is, sometimes
you don't need facts--

you need connection.

Christmas
is right around the corner.

What's your wish this year?

And bonus question--

which of Santa's reindeer
would make the best news anchor?

[laughter]

Dasher, obviously.
He's got hustle.

And for your first question...

my wish is that other people
can learn what I did,

that Christmas isn't something
that just happens.

It's made
by choosing to see the good,

even if it's hard to find
at first.

And where
did you learn that from?

I learned that from you.

[Robbie chuckles]

One final question,

and I think
it's gonna be a big scoop.

Ooh!

Any plans about your future
you want to share with everyone?

[he sighs]

No scoop here.

Minneapolis is my home,

and I feel like
I am just getting started.

Sometimes...

the bigger story
isn't out there,

it's right in front of you,

and, um...
I don't want to miss it.

[Robbie] How will you know
when you see it?

It'll make you want to be
the best version of yourself.

[♪♪♪]

[Robbie] Well, folks...

this seems like
a great place to wrap it up.

I'm Robbie Sullivan
from Elk River Elementary,

wishing everyone
a very Merry Christmas!

[applause]

Whoo!

-Good job.
-[chuckling]

[♪♪♪]

Oh, honey!

I am so proud of you.

Thanks, Mom.

Oh...

Great job.

Now, go get your things.

Lucy, I am so, so sorry.

I never meant to hurt you.

Or Robbie.

I know. I'm sorry too.

But I don't
want to be the reason

you walk away from your dream.

I'm not walking away from it.

I am finally realizing...

just what it is.

[♪♪♪]

[chuckling]

[adults laughing]

[Adam, amused]
What are you doing?

[they laugh]

[♪♪♪]

[♪♪♪]