Original subtitles

Nothing like North Haven at Christmas.

Uh-huh.

First time here?

Sorry?

North Haven.

First time here?

Oh, no.

I grew up here.

I just haven't been back in...

wow, almost three years.

Oh, sure.

So where do you live?

Everywhere, really.

I work for a non-profit called The Helping

Initiative, so we go wherever the help is needed.

No one needs my help in North Haven.

Oh, I wouldn't be so sure about that.

Okay, here we are.

442 Maple.

Oh.

Well, someone likes Christmas.

I'm forbidden to enter my aunt's house without this on.

Well, I think it looks great.

I'm Phil, by the way.

Merry Christmas.

Merry Christmas.

Aunt Annie!

The dog returns!

You're here!

Oh, the dog!

Oh, look at you.

Welcome to my world, traveler.

Oh.

My turn!

Um, who are you and what have you done with my niece?

Hey, guys.

Hey, sister.

Aunt Annie, what'd you bring me?

What'd you bring me?

Iris, is that the first thing you have to say to her?

Sorry, but she does see you as a present machine.

Well, I might just happen to have something in my bag for my favorite niece.

I'm your only niece, silly.

Iris, if I had a thousand nieces, you'd still be my favorite.

Close your eyes.

I was helping build a school in Nepal.

And the oldest woman in the village, some say she was over a hundred years old,

made this just for you.

And it plays Jingle Bells.

All the way from Nepal.

How do you like that?

Wait, I can do backup.

William, you are such a Christmas ham.

I love it, thank you.

Wait, are we hugging again?

Come on.

Don't leave me out.

I told you reentry was going to be intense.

I've missed your sweet potato casserole.

And I've missed you eating it.

So I don't have to eat the leftovers.

It's so nice having the whole family together at Christmas.

It has been too long.

So, Annie, how long do we get you?

You know I love you guys.

Uh-oh, here we go.

She's going to say two days.

No, not just two days.

But I love my job also, and I just found out I'm in line for a promotion.

Project manager.

Well, that's wonderful.

She still hasn't told us how long.

Two weeks.

Oh.

Oh, come on, guys.

Two weeks is a long time.

That's right.

We're going to make the best of it.

The North Haven Christmas Countdown has officially begun.

There's the tree lighting ceremony, of course.

Christmas craft fair.

Snowman building competition.

Snowperson.

Oh, I'm sorry.

Of course.

Snowperson.

Actually, I was hoping to volunteer somewhere while I was home.

Volunteer?

Honey, you volunteer for a living.

Aren't you on vacation?

I never take a vacation from helping.

Sorry, it's work.

I've got to take this.

Hello, Annie speaking.

Hey, let's good to have her home.

Thanks so much for letting me stay.

I know Dad wanted me to stay with him, but...

Too much man cave, I hear ya?

I love my brother-in-law, but how many lazy boy chairs does one person need?

Yeah, and I'm sorry I'm not staying no longer.

I know I'm disappointing everyone.

Thanks.

Honey, we just miss you.

And we're all secretly dreaming that you'll find some nice guy and settle down here.

Did I say that?

Well, you'll have to keep dreaming.

I have a job.

And I'm not going to find a guy in North Haven that shares my same... world view.

You would be surprised.

When I met Frank, he was in the last place I was looking for.

You rear-ended Uncle Frank with your car.

I don't think you were looking at all.

You know what I mean.

Honey, the only thing that's important in love is where you feel it.

And that's in your heart.

This came in the mail a couple of months ago.

The pictures of the dogs were so cute, I just couldn't throw it out.

And I thought of it when you said you wanted to volunteer.

Foster a dog for the holidays?

Mm-hmm.

Oh, I love dogs.

But you're allergic and I'm staying with you.

Well, I'm sure I'm not allergic.

I'm not allergic anymore.

That was a long time ago.

I don't think allergies work that way.

You should do this.

I think it's a sign.

Why else would I have kept it for so long?

I don't know.

You tell me.

Oh, you.

Nice to have you home, honey.

Thanks.

Are you okay?

I'm fine.

Can I help you with something?

I was interested in fostering a dog for the holidays.

I had to close the rescue.

I just can't afford to run it.

Not enough donations, and to be honest, I don't have a head for business.

So what happened to all the animals?

The local vet agreed to take them in.

I'm sure you could talk to him about fostering.

He's on Main Street.

Okay.

Thank you.

Hey.

It's gonna be okay.

Stop that turtle!

Oh.

Thank you.

I don't know how this one keeps getting away.

Annie?

Annie Blake.

Dylan Hawks?

Wow, you look great.

I mean, you always looked great.

I haven't seen you since our last debate in high school.

Right.

Was King Arthur a real historical figure or a myth?

Which I won.

Won?

Is it opposite's day?

Same old mature Dylan.

No, you were in the historical team, and the myth team served you a crushing defeat.

I don't remember it that way.

Then you remember it the incorrect way.

Why is it that we've never been able to look at each other without arguing?

I remember getting into it with you over lunch.

But what's the best way to eat an Oreo?

Yeah, to dunk it in milk, obviously.

Split it in half, lick the inside, save the chocolate for last.

Myth.

What are you doing here?

Right.

I want to foster a dog.

Do you know if the veterinarian is here?

Yeah.

You're looking at him.

This is my clinic, and apparently also my shelter.

It was really nice of you to take in all these animals.

Yeah.

I don't really have room for all of them here, but...

the alternative was to send them into the shelter in the city, and...

that wouldn't give them much of a chance.

Why doesn't that cat have any fur?

He has issues.

Oh, yeah?

Look, I'm kind of busy.

You want to see some dogs?

Dogs.

Dogs.

Okay.

That is Rocket and Banjo.

And...

Oh, no.

Hi.

I'm missing Farley.

Hi, buddy.

Hi.

Farley, here.

How small is this dog?

Small.

Pocket size.

Hi.

Got him.

Hi, Farley.

Come here.

Here, buddy.

Come on.

Oh, my goodness.

You're so sweet.

This little daddy.

Um, he's really cute.

Hi, Mr. Samuels.

Hi.

I'll be out in a second.

I really need two.

I know.

I know.

I'm going to pick one.

Um... Okay.

Um...

I'll take all three.

Excuse me?

I just can't pick one.

I mean, they're so cute.

Look at them.

Okay.

Well, great.

Uh, do you need leashes?

I need everything if I'm going to get them adopted in two weeks.

Seriously?

Two weeks?

Yeah.

That's how long I'm home for the holidays.

But it's right before Christmas.

And I know that because I already ate the chocolate for December 16th.

Chocolate advent calendars are for children.

Listen, it's the end of the year.

I think the last thing on people's minds is adopting a straight pet.

I'm... I just don't think that... I can do it?

Hmm.

You don't know me very well.

Say hello to your new mom.

You wanna go to walkie do you do do do do do.

Here we go.

Good boy.

Come on.

I love you.

I love you, too.

I love you.

Okay.

Aunt Claire.

That's what I love about you, Annie.

You always go big.

Meet Rocket, Banjo, and Farley.

I hope you don't mind.

I just couldn't pick one.

Not at all.

I love...

...talks.

I thought you said you weren't allergic anymore.

I'm not.

It's just...

...pollen.

Pollen.

Well, you love food.

And you hate food.

And you like Christmas ornaments.

Stay.

Lay down.

Well, sit.

Now, high five.

Do nothing.

You guys are such good little enemies.

Okay, you're gonna do it.

I'm gonna close my eyes.

I'm gonna open them.

Stay.

Stay.

Rocket, get down here.

You!

Would

you like to adopt a dog?

Hi!

My number's just there.

Hi!

Would you like to adopt a dog for the holidays?

Oh my gosh!

And can you do a sneeze?

Yes!

That's so cute!

For the holidays.

Yeah.

Would you like to adopt a dog?

Dog training?

How to teach your dog to talk?

No way.

Dog's a little unruly.

No!

Not at all.

No.

Um...

Little angels.

I was just here to drop off my adoption flyers.

I thought that you could hand them out to your clients.

Sure.

These are great.

Thanks.

I hope they work.

I've blocked out the whole day tomorrow to interview potential adopters.

The whole day?

Mm-hmm.

I... I'm... I'm gonna go.

Nice to see you.

Yes.

Mm-hmm.

Hey.

Forgot your book.

I... I won't need it.

See you.

Bye.

I hope you don't mind them on the couch.

Not at all.

Mi furry casa.

Su furry casa.

I see you found the Christmas pajamas.

You mean the ones that were on the bed with a label that said, Where are these?

What are you doing up so late?

I'm trying to finish my report on the school.

Mm-hmm.

But I found a library in Wisconsin that's gonna donate

all of its extra books and send them all the way to Nepal.

And how did you do that?

I found that people are really good deep down.

Just about connecting them with the cause they believe in.

Your mom would be so proud of you.

Thanks.

So, what do you think?

I couldn't find any sample adoption applications

I liked online, so I decided to make my own.

What's your favorite book?

What's your greatest memory with an animal?

If you could make one change in the world, what would it be?

What historical character do you most identify with?

What ever happened to is your yard fenced?

Less on page five.

Oh.

I just want to find the perfect home for these dogs.

We've been through a lot.

I'll drink to that.

Cheers.

I'm fine.

Remind me to adjust the room tomorrow.

I'll drink to that upstairs.

Me for a kiss, Sue for a kiss.

Thanks, Aunt Claire.

You think a dog will help you meet girls?

Yeah.

Yeah.

So, you need a model for your dog couture?

You want to practice parenting a dog before you have a baby, and then you want

to give the dog back after you've had the baby.

Really?

So, you want to rent a dog for a date to try and win your boyfriend back?

You want this little dog to help you herd sheep.

That's what you want to do.

Oh, that bad, huh?

I just want to find a good home for these dogs.

Maybe I need to make an application, you know, to sort out all the riff-raff.

Don't you mean ruff-ruff?

Oh.

Maybe a mistletoe mocha will help you feel better.

Yes, please.

Extra sprinkles.

Whoa.

I thought I already know sprinkles.

This is Annie's.

This is yours.

What's wrong with sprinkles?

What's right with sprinkles?

It's called the mistletoe mocha.

Without the sprinkles, it's just a mocha.

What's the myth, then, if not symbolic of mistletoe?

Garnish.

So, you two know each other.

Yeah, we're friends.

Friends?

We were on the debate team together.

Which is where we became friends.

No, that's where we debated each other.

Oh, yeah, that's right.

You had some great debates.

You shouldn't bring them up.

I won most of them, and it's a sore spot for Annie.

So, how are the adoptions going?

Terrible.

Great.

What?

Dylan doesn't think I can get the dogs adopted in two weeks.

Oh, I didn't say that.

You implied it.

And I told him he doesn't know me very well.

Annie Blake?

Oh, you're interested in adopting Rocket?

Yeah.

When can I meet him?

Wait, I can hear you.

I can hear you.

Hello.

Hello.

Hi.

You were saying?

Stacy!

Oh, yeah.

Yeah.

So, savor of dogs everywhere.

I don't know about everywhere.

I'm just fostering some dogs while I'm home for the holidays.

Some?

Three.

And you don't live here?

No.

Just home for the holidays.

Most people stuff themselves full of candy canes

and turkey while they're home for Christmas.

But I'm guessing you're not like most people.

I can be a little type A.

Then we'll get along just great.

I'm a big type A.

When would you like to meet Rocket?

Let's see.

I own the CrossFit gym in town, so I have a pretty busy schedule.

I've got an early class in the morning, followed by a private training session.

How much time do you have?

About nine.

At the dog park.

Sounds good.

I know the one.

Just sent you a calendar alert.

Perfect.

Rocket and I will see you there tomorrow morning at 9 a.m.

Sharp.

Yes.

Perfect.

He's a good dog.

He's a good dog.

Rocket's a good boy.

Oh, I love him.

I think the feeling is mutual.

Got a present for you.

Whoa.

You got a good arm.

Yeah.

Captain of the softball team at the gym.

Would you excuse me?

Sure.

Aunt Annie.

Farley, how are you?

He has to go to the bathroom.

Well, put him down on the ground.

She refuses.

He doesn't like the dog park.

So many dogs.

The dog training book says to help him get used to as

many situations as possible so he builds confidence.

A confident dog is an adoptable dog.

You've been studying.

You know me.

I love a good how-to book.

It's okay, Farley.

That's it, Farley.

So, how's the meet and greet?

Great so far.

Stacy's over there with Rocket.

Wow.

You know what they did?

That woman has some serious skills.

I'm sure I'll see her at the gym.

I think Rocket might have found his match.

Banjo!

Aunt Annie, Santa should have got Banjo and Farley.

They really like him.

That's weird.

They're usually shy with strangers.

I'm sorry about that.

It must be something about the suit.

He must think you're a big red dog.

You mean like Clifford?

Oh, it's you.

Is that any way to talk to Santa?

What are you doing here?

It was Gary's idea.

We're raising money for the cats and dogs in my clinic and

honestly, I think he just wanted to wear an elf costume.

Oh.

Rocket just beat me in the 100-yard dance and that's saying something.

Oh, he lives up to his name for sure.

I'm really interested in adopting him.

What's the next step?

I'll email you an application.

Okay.

Get back to you tomorrow.

See ya, buddy.

I think she's one of those people that only need like two hours of sleep.

Yeah, I'm getting tired just watching her.

Ho, ho, ho!

Merry Christmas!

Hey, I know you.

Yes, I'm fostering some dogs.

That's cause for a celebration.

How about a photo on Santa's lap?

What?

No.

She won't do it.

And Annie.

Don't be shy.

Let's both do it.

You work for a non-profit.

You know every little bit counts.

How much is it?

Five dollars.

Fine.

Uh-uh.

Her dog.

Santa's lap awaits.

Say, meow-y Christmas.

I won't.

You what?

You don't like Christmas?

I don't.

I was sure when I was a kid.

Christmas is even more important as an adult.

Everyone needs to feel the joy of Christmas.

And nobody wants an angry elf.

Three, two, one!

Meow-y Christmas!

Just the girl I wanted to see.

That snow person isn't going to build itself.

Excuse me?

Fifteen minutes to the snowman competition in the park.

I've reserved our snowman.

Well, I've reserved our pile of snow.

That's today?

I'm still finishing my report.

Plus, I've got to train these dogs and work on their social media campaign.

I'm just not on track.

And I need another candidate by this afternoon or I won't meet my deadline.

Honey, deadlines, campaigns, reports.

It's Christmas time.

You should be using words like gingerbread.

Tinsel.

I'm just trying to help, you know.

I know you are.

I'd just like to see you more.

You're not staying with me.

It just feels like...

I'm very proud of you.

Annie Blake.

Sorry.

You're interested in adopting Banjo?

I'm also.

Yes, no, I can be there.

Got an avocado taco with Santa sauce and a side of truffle oil chips.

Merry Christmas, Santa.

Hey there.

What can I get for you today?

I'm looking for Jake.

My name's Annie.

I'm fostering a dog he called about.

I'm Jake.

Is that Banjo?

Sure is.

Banjo.

What's good, my dude?

Hey, can you take over for me?

Thanks.

Come on, buddy.

Can I pet him?

Sure.

Aww.

He likes you.

He likes whatever's on my hand.

Oh, which reminds me.

I made you a dog bone.

You made that?

It does look pretty good if I do say so myself.

Huh.

But taste is what really matters.

Banjo here is my first customer.

I think he likes it.

Well, he likes a lot of things, including Christmas ornaments,

throw pillows, shoes, and my favorite socks, which I'm still not ready to talk about.

Oh.

See how the leash is slack like that?

That's good.

That means he's not straining.

Keeping pace with you.

Good boy, Banjo.

Also, you want to say specifically what it is that he's doing that you like.

Instead of saying good boy, you say good walk.

Got it.

Good boy, Banjo.

I'm kind of nervous.

I never walked a dog before.

Never?

Yeah.

We grew up on a farm, so we always had dogs, but they were, like, loose, you know?

Yeah.

Herding cattle, chasing sheep, knowing chickens.

So you grew up on a farm, and you have a vegan food truck in North Haven,

the town of Butter and Bacon.

You'd be surprised.

People here are more open-minded than you think.

I'm currently working on a vegan Christmas cake.

My sister Remy makes the best Christmas cake in New England.

Ten thousand sticks of butter in it, though.

Wait.

My mom's recipe.

Wait.

Your sister is the famous Remy from Remy's Coffee Bar?

The one and only.

Small world.

Little small town.

Well, I'd better get back to the truck.

Fill out that form for Banjo.

What do you think, buddy?

You like him?

Oh, hi, Stacy.

Hey.

Hey, I filled out the application.

Um, I took the liberty of adding a couple of questions

I thought might be useful, plus some references.

Wow.

Okay.

I can't wait to read it.

Your sister's a trip.

I don't think she realizes it's Christmas.

I don't think she does either.

Poor dad.

Poor Annie.

I'll see you out there, okay?

Hey, Annie.

Hey.

I have two, count them, two very good candidates for the dogs.

Great.

Good for you.

I'm sensing a tone that's unlike you.

It's just that I thought you were here to see us.

You know, your family.

I'm staying at Aunt Claire's and I'm looking at you right now.

You totally flaked on Dad today.

I know.

But, like, snowman building.

That's not the point.

The point is to spend time with Dad.

He's been planning your visit forever.

Counting the days.

I know, but snowman building.

We used to do it every year as kids.

I know.

It's just, Christmas things that we did with Mom…

well, those are the things that Dad keeps insisting on.

You know what a Christmas guy he is and he wants to keep her memory alive.

I know he does.

Well, do you, though?

I just can't bear to see him.

Without her.

Laura.

Is that why you haven't been home in three years?

I miss mom too.

You're acting like you're trying to avoid us.

Dad just wants to be close to you again.

We all do.

Okay.

I'll fix it.

Great.

Well you can start by giving me a hand with this.

Where are we taking them?

May I present to you, Nog on a Log.

So everyone brings a log and they drink eggnog?

Bingo.

Only in North Haven.

Annie, you made it to Nog on a Log.

Wouldn't miss it for the world.

Did you bring a log?

I brought a dog.

Does your dog like to jog?

And a thong.

So this is a rhyming event?

It does sort of bring out the Dr. Seuss in all of us.

We're already out of eggnog and that's no yolk.

Iris, let's go and get some refills.

Can you hand these out for me?

Sure.

Thank you.

Oh great.

Excuse me, I gotta go.

Annie.

Annie.

If I didn't know better, I'd think you were trying to hide from me.

I am trying to hide from you.

We always argue.

No we don't.

See?

What you call arguing, I call friends teasing each other.

Hi.

Adopt a cat for Christmas?

There you go.

Thank you.

What are those?

I'm getting some dogs and cats adopted.

And you got the idea for the flyers for me?

You didn't invent the flyer.

Can I see it?

Huh.

It's okay.

I think it's cute.

I think you need an application form as well.

Yeah, I'm going to follow my instincts.

Okay.

See her?

Yeah.

She's single and she likes kids but doesn't want them yet.

See the way she's playing with her friends' babies?

She likes her baby but not holding it?

If she had baby fever, she'd be holding that baby.

Guessing from her shoes that she's a professional, she probably works in town.

Which means she won't be home during the day.

Which means a cat would be perfect for her.

Watch this.

I see you got her number.

Huh?

Oh yeah, her snowball.

She's going to come by tomorrow.

Impressive.

How'd you learn how to do that?

It's the holidays.

You know, Christmas brings out the best in people.

So that's why you're a Christmas person?

Yeah, that and the fact that my mom and I moved here just before it when I was 14.

Honestly, I hated it.

I thought I was the cool kid from Boston.

I didn't want to move to some dinky small town.

And I missed my dad.

He was in the army.

So why do you like Christmas if it reminds you of a bad memory?

Because it reminds me of all my memories.

Good and bad.

They're all a part of me and I don't want to forget that.

Christmas helps you feel all the feels.

You know?

Man, if you had a tail, you'd wag it.

Yeah, like all the time.

Oh, I see another candidate.

Gotta go.

Okay.

Historical figure I must identify with.

Bruce Lee.

I totally see that.

Thanks.

You love flipping around as much as I do.

Plus, he wore black when I left the military.

So used to wearing a uniform.

Didn't know how to dress.

Black's easy.

And more importantly, easy to keep clean.

Am I interrupting?

I'm so sorry.

It'll just be two seconds.

I'm sorry.

I thought that you were just going to hand me the application.

I didn't realize we were going to discuss it.

Which is great.

Don't get me wrong.

It's just I promised my dad that I would go Christmas shopping with him.

I didn't want to be rude.

That's not rude.

It's direct.

One of my favorite qualities.

As you can see here on page four.

I've got a popcorn maker for William.

Remy wants bath bombs.

I don't know what those are.

I can help.

See anything you like?

Dad!

What?

You're on my list too.

You know how I feel about Christmas presents.

If you really want to get me something, you

can make a donation to the helping initiative.

But I want you to open the door.

How about that one?

That would look so pretty on you.

It's... Rose Quartz.

The heart's doing it.

Your mom's favorite.

I just realized I haven't walked the dogs in a couple hours.

I got to go.

I will help you find something for Iris later.

I promise.

Okay.

Sure.

Are you okay?

Yeah.

Okay.

Okay.

We're walking.

We're walking.

We're walking.

And we're stopping.

Yes!

You stopped when I asked!

Oh my God.

I got to get a picture of this.

Oh, hey!

We were doing so well!

Come here.

I...

Hello!

Hello!

Hello!

Whistling is the only dog training tool you need.

Randomly whistling at a dog is not dog training.

By what definition?

It's not in any of the books.

Well, I don't go by books.

I go by... Yeah, instincts.

Okay, I got it.

Thanks.

Here.

I gotta go.

Looks like we're heading the same direction.

I'm on my lunch break, so I thought I'd walk Mabel and hand out some flyers.

Come on.

Oh, she's really cute.

Right?

Is anyone interested in adopting her?

Oh, no, no, no, no, no.

She's mine.

Oh.

Someone left her at the clinic a couple years

ago, and she's been my co-pilot ever since.

Oh!

I found a hope for Snowball!

The woman from Nogginalock?

The very same.

She runs a nail salon in town, and apparently Snowball's going to work every day.

That's great, Dylan.

Really.

Now I just need a home for five kittens, the

hairless cat now known as Bigglesworth, and Jerry.

Jerry?

The turtle.

No any turtle lovers or crazy cat ladies?

Can I ask what it is that you're doing?

I'm late for the craft fair.

Set up started half an hour ago, and I couldn't

get this gosh darn Santa out of the attic.

Why does Santa have to go to the craft fair?

He's my earring display.

Let's see.

Ta-da!

Santa with body piercings.

I love it.

Aunt Claire, meet Dylan.

He's the town... Town vet.

Small town beer.

Everybody knows everybody.

You two friends now?

Yeah.

Well, it's nice to see you up close.

Do you want help getting him in there?

No, I got it.

You can go right to Annie out wide.

I got it.

Annie, if somebody offers help, let them help.

Especially if that someone is cute.

He's not that cute.

I can hear you, you know.

Claire, you made all these?

Last year I retired from teaching and had a little spare time on my hands.

Yeah, I can see that.

Annie gets her busy nature from me.

She and I could never sit still.

When she was a little girl... Okay, stop right there.

I don't know what you're about to say, but it's probably embarrassing.

Excuse me, this is my story.

One time she found a baby bird that had fallen out of its

nest and she insisted on bringing it home to my place.

I kept telling her, baby birds are terrible.

You have to feed them every two hours all night long.

And she kept saying, I've got this, Aunt Claire.

So, that night, I decided to check on her around about 3 a.m.

And there she was, wide awake, writing a How to Care for Baby Birds book.

The baby bird was fast asleep on her lap.

Annie's always helped everyone and everything.

That's just Annie.

Aunt Annie!

There's my favorite name.

I'm your niece?

I'm your only niece, silly.

Oh, that's right.

Iris, I've got a spot for you all set up.

I brought an earring kit.

Can you help me make earrings?

Oh, squish monster.

I wish I could, but I have to go see a man about banjo.

I can help.

Oh, well, come right around here.

You know how to make earrings?

No, but I can take directions.

I remember you.

You're Santa.

No, just one of his helpers.

Today, you can call me Dylan.

Are you sure about this?

Positive.

You go find a hole for banjo.

I'll look after Rocket and Farley while you're gone.

Okay.

Thanks.

Iris, you good?

Okay, Dylan, you're gonna stand over there and I'm gonna pass you the thread.

Yes, ma'am.

Okay, close your eyes.

Jake, I'm just here to pick up your application.

Yeah, first, just close your eyes.

My sister told me to close my eyes once and she put a bug in my mouth.

I'm not gonna put a bug in your mouth.

I'm vegan.

Come on, just close your eyes.

Come on, come on.

Open.

Oh.

It's a white chocolate mousse with a candy cane and mint glaze.

Try it.

It's... it's amazing.

And it's actually vegan.

Vegan.

Oh, and that bone I gave Banjo had kale in it.

Mm.

Shh, don't tell him.

You should put that in your application.

Makes dog bones.

Uh, yeah, um, about that, I haven't actually filled it out yet.

Sorry, it's just I work 18-hour days and I really hate filling out paperwork.

Yeah, I mean, it's a lot of paperwork.

Hmm.

It's like a novel.

Not a short story at most.

I just want to make sure you two are a good match.

We are.

Look how cute we look together.

Fine.

I'll give you a second chance.

As long as I can get one of these to go.

I have a friend who really likes mint.

I'm on it.

Something wrong?

Yeah.

I just got a call from the county.

Apparently, I'm not allowed to have that many dogs and

cats in my clinic because I'm not officially a pet rescue.

Oh, no, that's no good.

Well, what's your plan?

I don't know.

I've got to meet an official there now.

Can I talk to you at your aunt's house later?

Of course.

You did all this.

What's wrong?

So, you built a school in a mountain village with no electricity.

You brought in solar power, all the building materials, got the books donated,

and then set up a fund to pay the teachers.

And now 120 kids all the way across the world

are learning to read for the first time.

Is it confusing?

I can change it.

No, no.

It's not confusing.

I don't think they should make you project manager.

I think they should make you president of the free world.

Thanks, Dad.

Okay.

So, should I send it?

This report could mean my promotion.

Yes.

Send it.

Let's celebrate with a drink.

It's a little early in the day for Slater, don't you think?

I'm feeling reckless.

I sold 23 pairs of earrings.

What?

That's amazing.

Care to join us?

I need something stronger.

Add cinnamon.

Claire, where do you want this?

In the attic.

Top of the stairs to your right.

Thanks, Dylan.

You two friends now?

He is adorable.

And single.

So why don't you go out with him?

Because he doesn't look at me the way he looks at you.

Which is?

Smitten.

Please.

Well, I just call it how I see it.

Do you think Dylan wants cider?

Absolutely.

Four mugs coming up.

Thanks.

Can I talk to you for a minute?

Sure.

I'll take barley.

Thanks.

There's a lot of pollen in the air today.

It's winter.

Pollen never sleeps, honey.

So the county gave me until Christmas Eve to relocate the dogs and cats.

Or they're going to take them to the shelter in the city.

That's horrible.

Yeah.

All those sweet animals.

Sitting in cages?

On Christmas.

We can't let that happen.

No, we can't.

Does Gary still own the barn?

Yeah.

He's going to sell it after the holidays.

Well, we have to get it back open.

Something wrong?

Well, you know, I'm not a great businessman.

But I'm not really a great cleaner either.

I just left it like this because I was thinking I'd come back

after Christmas and get the place ready to sell in January.

I mean, who wants to clean over Christmas?

Gary, we're not going to judge you.

I'm sure it's not as bad as you think.

It's worse.

I know.

It's a mess.

Well, let's take a look at your books and see what kind of a mess you really are in.

It's more of a bag than a book.

I wasn't going to go through these.

Yeah, yeah.

After the holidays.

What's the damage?

I've seen worse.

At least Gary has receipts.

Most charities don't even do that.

I helped a man set up his flamingo set.

I went to the sanctuary once.

I walked in and there was a flamingo standing on the dining room table.

Cool.

I never treated a flamingo.

So it looks like Gary is up to date on his mortgage but behind on the day-to-day,

food operation, electricity, transportation costs.

We need to raise about $10,000.

I'm not kidding.

Wow.

Okay.

How?

Well, a bake sale isn't going to cut it.

We need an event.

A Christmas event.

And North Haven has more Christmas events than any place on earth.

What's an event that's missing?

An event theme?

Well, we've already had the snowman making competition.

Nog on a log.

You keep a list of Christmas events in your pocket?

I thought this was a safe space, Annie.

Oh no, I completely forgot.

We've got to go.

Come on.

Why?

Come on.

Come on.

We're going to miss it.

We're not coming.

We're not coming.

The Christmas tree lighting ceremony?

Seriously?

Every single night in December.

Haven't missed one yet.

Man, this town's obsession with Christmas events is... The best, right?

Hey, do you have anything fancy on that list?

Uh, we don't really do fancy in North Haven.

We do, like, LLB.

I just think it would make our event unique, you know?

Get people talking.

Plus, everybody loves an excuse to dress up.

Especially if it's for a good cause.

Oh, you mean like cocktails, dancing, a band?

A Christmas ball?

For animals.

A furball.

Uh, one thing...

I woof you a Merry Christmas?

Bought some beverages.

Oh, you've been trying.

I got it.

Santa Paws.

Yeah, Santa Paws!

Um, it's a great idea.

And we can, like, use Gary's rescue.

It's, uh, it's free.

And a complete disaster.

We can clean it up.

Me, you, and what army?

First rule of non-profits, ask your family first.

Cool.

I like it.

So, does this mean we're going to be working together?

It's for a good cause.

Uh, it's... partners?

Partners.

Merry Christmas, everybody!

Count me down!

Ten!

Nine!

Eight!

Seven!

Six!

Five!

Four!

Three!

Two!

Make a wish.

One!

Merry Christmas!

Ho, ho, ho!

The magic of Christmas never ends in North Haven.

So, you want to have Santa Paws.

Santa Paws on the 23rd.

Yep.

And today's the 21st.

Yep.

Well, there's only one thing that can help us.

A lot more people.

The magic of what?

Christmas music!

I should have warned you about my family.

I think they're great.

Ha!

Just keep the Santa company.

I can't wait for Christmas.

It's the greatest time.

And it's yours and mine.

You can see it everywhere.

Better?

It's getting there.

I asked Jim at the hardware store if he could give us a discount on some paint.

He said it could do even better than that.

I love it.

I got the decorations from my house.

I could use some help bringing them in.

At your service.

Oh!

These are all yours?

These are my spare decorations.

I thought I was the only one with a house full of Christmas decorations.

I bet between the two of us, we'll have everything we need for the party.

Hey!

I have the same business clothes.

Which one should we use?

Both.

You can call me Claire.

You can call me Gary.

Color.

What about this?

Red is my favorite.

You know, this purple isn't so bad.

Once we add colorful Christmas lights to it, it's going to look just like...

Free, donated, paid.

Oh, the invitations are ready at the printers.

They look incredible.

Yeah.

Oh, you've got some paint on your cheek.

Here.

Here?

Hold on, you're making it worse.

Annie, I know I was scheduled to walk Rocket, and I'm almost two minutes late.

I'm sorry, I just can't forgive you.

Uh...

Joke!

It was a joke.

Sorry.

Of course.

I'm sorry about that.

I'm still teaching him about not jumping.

Well, it's not a problem.

I can pick out the hair.

So, we need a Christmas tree.

There are still some left at the tree lot down by the taxi depot.

I have to get the table and chairs.

I still have to organize catering.

Yeah, I've got to see patients at the clinic.

Um, why don't I meet you at the tree lot and we can, like, pick a tree out together?

Right.

Like we're ever going to pick the same tree.

I will take him for a walk in just a sec.

Great.

Jake, I know you're hiding.

You haven't filled out your application.

Sorry.

It's just... We've been really busy here.

How can I make it up to you?

Donate food for Santa Paz.

And fill out that application.

How about this tree?

This might take a while.

They're going to want to sniff every single tree.

I don't blame them.

What about this one?

You know, it's really nice to walk a dog.

It's a great excuse to take a break and get outside.

Yeah.

You know, there's some pretty good hikes around North Haven.

We could show you if you like.

We'd love that.

Wouldn't we, guys?

You're getting attached.

No.

They're going to find wonderful homes and that's what matters.

You know, you can always adopt them.

I can't.

Ever since I started working at the Helping Initiative,

I've never lived in one place for longer than six months.

Is that hard?

Yeah.

But the work is important to me and I love to see the world.

Me too.

We must take adventures to know where we truly belong.

Wow, did you write that?

No.

I saw it in a cafe in Thailand.

You've been to Thailand?

Why is that so hard to believe?

Because you're Mr. Small Town Guy.

Just because I love North Haven doesn't mean I melt when I cross the city line.

This is my home.

I've always wanted to raise a family here.

Find anything yet?

Phil, what are you doing here?

I own this place.

And I'm the local cab driver.

And I'm president of the ukulele club, among other things.

Small town.

People here wear many hats.

So, how about this one?

Wow.

It's beautiful, but probably out of our price range.

Don't be silly.

It's free.

Really?

William told me what you all were up to helping those animals.

It's a real good thing you're doing.

Thanks, Phil.

And you're cordially invited to Santa Paws.

Well, that sounds perfect.

Meow-y Christmas.

Where am I?

Gary and I understand that you need elbow grease to do anything.

You guys, this is unbelievable.

Thank you.

So, I have the catering lined up, the drinks donated,

and I thought that we could hang this up out front.

It's beautiful.

Absolutely wonderful.

Is, uh, Dylan around?

It's, uh... Crafternoon?

At the animal clinic.

It's what now?

Crafternoon.

Oh, now it all makes sense.

So, I thought we could decorate the trees with

pictures of animals that are up for adoption.

So, I've got pictures of animals, a hot glue

gun, and these red and green trolley things.

Pipe cleaners?

Exactly.

That's what I said.

Then, at Santa Paws, guests can pick ornaments of available animals,

and Gary can help them with the adoption process.

Are you sure you've never worked for non-profits?

I learn from the best.

I've just got to stick the eyes on Bigglesworth, and then I'm done.

What do you think?

Needs more glitter.

Gotta make up for the lack of fur on the cat.

So, how did you get into the world of non-profits?

What made you want to do that for a living?

My mom, really.

She was just such a natural caregiver.

She was a full-time nurse, had two little kids, still had time to volunteer.

Making quilts for the retirement home.

You know, every winter she would ask me which one

of the kids at school couldn't afford a winter coat.

And then she'd compile a list, and get to school early, and hang a brand

new winter coat on the hooks outside the classroom.

Completely anonymous.

She sounds amazing.

She was.

It's getting late.

I better go.

No, I'll walk you home.

See you in the morning, partner.

See you in the morning.

Hey, I had a great time tonight.

Me too.

Come on, Mabel.

Let's go.

Come

on.

Because of all this wind.

I only woke up because I nearly froze to death in my bedroom.

I made some cowboy coffee over the fire.

Apologies in advance, probably more grounds than coffee.

Want some?

No, I've got to go find out if the rest of the town has lost power.

Today is Santa Paws.

This can't be happening.

For a second I was going to blow off the porch.

What's going on with the power?

Is it just our block?

No, that's why I'm here.

The wind knocked a power line down right past the entrance of town.

North Haven is completely dark.

Dylan, everything alright in here?

Yeah, I got a call from the county.

If we can't get the animals out of here by morning, they're going to come get them.

We can't let that happen.

I'm mostly worried about Jerry.

He doesn't do cold.

Okay, can I go check on the animals upstairs?

Great.

Grab the blankets.

Okay.

Hey, guys.

I know it's cold.

The power's out.

Hey, Picklesworth.

You poor thing.

It's going to be okay, I promise.

Nice weather we're having.

Looks like we're going to have to cancel Santa Paws.

You can't fight Mother Nature.

No!

We're not canceling.

Yes!

What'd she say?

In my job, a little wind is nothing.

A hurricane, an earthquake, then we'll talk.

So what's the plan?

Well, first thing we need to do is warm this

place up so we can bring the animals over.

Dad, how many generators can we round up?

I see what I can do.

Aunt Claire, Gary, we need as many blankets as we can find.

I've got some in my attic.

Me too.

I already made a dozen loaves of fruitcake for dessert.

But we can't cook anything if there's no power.

Well, I've got a grill.

We can grill stuff.

I've got a grill too.

Grill off.

Oh, you're on.

Iris and I will go and get grill supplies.

And candles.

We need a lot of candles.

We need to get out there and spread the word that Santa Paws is still happening.

Great.

Let's do it.

Lucky it's a small town, huh?

Santa Paws is still on tonight.

Please come along.

We'd love to see you.

Please come along.

Santa Paws is still on tonight.

Yes.

Beautiful.

It's still on.

Thank you so much.

Fantastic.

Hello.

Oh, look at you.

So beautiful.

Thank goodness it's over.

Yo, how crazy was that storm?

Jake, I didn't know you were going to bring the whole truck.

I thought you were just going to donate some food.

I'm an all or nothing kind of guy.

I'm sorry this is all happening right now.

I'm sure you'd rather be spending time with your family when it's Christmas.

Oh, I am.

There is my dad, my mom, and my sister.

That's our Christmas tree.

We wanted to donate it.

Jake, thank you.

Okay, Gary.

Three.

Two.

One.

I can't believe we did it.

I can't believe you did it.

We did it.

Annie, you want to come inside for a minute?

There's an issue with the Christmas tree.

Sure.

It's missing an ornament.

It's Mom.

I saw all the cute pet ornaments.

And I asked Dylan if I could make one of my own.

Your mom was always helping people.

And now you're doing the same thing.

I just wanted her to be here somehow.

I hope you don't mind.

I love it.

I'm sorry I haven't been home more, Dad.

It's just being home reminds me so much of Mom.

When I want that, you know, I don't want to forget her.

Forget her?

You can't.

Your mother is very much alive in you.

Oh, that reminds me.

I know you said no presents.

But...

Dad.

Dad.

Here you go.

Is that the best you can do?

Thank you.

Thank you.

For you.

Here you go.

How are you?

Oh, my.

What do you think?

He's one of my favorites.

Thank you so much.

Oh, thank you so, so much.

You look beautiful.

May I have this dance?

Of course.

You know, if you told me that I would be wearing a suit and dancing with my debate

nemesis, Annie Blake, I'd tell you were crazy.

And if you told me that I would be having a wonderful Christmas in North Haven,

I would say that you were crazy.

Christmas time in small towns.

There's really no better combination.

Well, I might have to agree.

I can really see the appeal of living here.

Really?

Really.

You know, I've got a confession to make.

In high school, I used to have the biggest crush on you.

I only argued with you so you'd talk to me.

Hey, guys.

So, we just reached $10,000.

What?

Hey, everyone.

It looks like with all the donations and the

ticket sales, we've reached our goal of $10,000.

The rescue is saved.

All right, everybody.

Let's celebrate.

Let me take a picture of you two.

Oh, here.

Okay.

Right.

Here we go.

Yes.

Oh, beautiful.

Can I see?

Sure.

Dylan, come on.

Let's dance.

What?

Did I cut someone's head off?

I'm famous for that.

What's the matter?

You look like you've seen a ghost.

I just got a message from the helping initiative.

I got the promotion.

You're going to Costa Rica.

They want me to start there right after Christmas.

But I get to have a whole team, everything.

I get to pick a project I'm passionate about right after Christmas.

Christmas.

Wow.

Wow.

Wow.

Okay, I keep saying wow.

Look, it's great news.

It's what you always wanted.

It's what I thought I wanted.

Dylan, I think I'm going to adopt Lucy.

Can we have a look at her?

Uh, okay.

Great.

Hey, we've already adopted five animals tonight.

It's just incredible.

You're looking at the new project manager for the Helping Initiative.

She's going to Costa Rica.

Wow, that's just amazing.

Would you excuse me?

Hey, so I was thinking about shutting the grill down and having a dance with my wife.

Think everyone's had enough food?

Yeah, thank you very much.

Thank you, William.

Annie, you did a really great thing tonight.

Hey, I'm leaving.

Got CrossFit tomorrow at 5 a.m.

But I'll see you after to pick up Rocket.

Sure.

Yay.

I'm filling out my application.

I got my name, my address.

That's about it, but it's a start.

Thanks for all your help tonight, Jake.

You know, I haven't seen our town come together for a while.

I haven't been there for a good cause in a long time.

That's all on you, Annie.

Hey, have you seen Annie?

I think she went outside.

Probably making calls, celebrating.

Yeah, it's been an amazing night, right?

No, not about that.

She got the job with Costa Rica.

The big promotion.

She did?

Yeah.

Yeah.

Hey.

Hey.

I was just about to come in and talk to you.

Yeah, about what?

The promotion?

I heard.

Congratulations.

Who?

Gary.

But it's okay.

He and I are going to partner up here.

It'll be great working with him.

We're all good now because of you.

So don't hurry back.

I think you and I made a pretty good team, too.

Yeah, but you're leaving.

Just like you always said you would.

Listen, I just came out here to say congratulations, so...

If I don't see you again, goodbye.

Bye-bye.

Bye.

Oh...

Hello?

Morning.

Hello.

Why is George walking across the kitchen table?

I...

I don't.

And watch.

Tutututututututu.

See?

See what?

I'm not allergic to cats!

Isn't that hilarious?

Oh, so you're not allergic to dogs or cats?

Oh, you.

Merry Christmas Eve morning, by the way.

I think that's how you say it.

You left the party without saying goodbye last night.

Remy thought that you'd started to pack.

I said, well, that sounds like Annie.

No, I just wanted to leave right after I talked to Dylan.

Did you two have an argument?

Or I guess that's what you call talking.

No, he just seemed completely fine with me leaving.

Maybe he was just being supportive.

It's like he didn't even care.

He said, don't hurry back.

I was starting to think he felt the same way about me.

As you do about him?

This is why I'm married to my job.

Relationships are too hard.

Oh, sweetie.

You know, when Frank died, I never thought I'd be with anyone else again.

I just shut myself off from that part of my life.

I taught school, went to crafting classes, made earrings.

Lots and lots of earrings.

And then I met Gary.

And he asked me out on a date last night.

He did?

What?

What did you say?

Well, I said yes.

Because, sure, relationships are complicated and messy.

But they're worth it.

Love is always worth it.

You know, for two people who say they can never

get along, you two sure seem like soulmates.

Come on, Lucy.

Come on, girl.

Annie, I'm walking Lucy.

Okay.

What a wonderful thing you've achieved.

We all did this.

It was a team effort.

That's what community building is.

Community building needs a leader, and that's what you are.

All great accomplishments start with that one person.

Gandhi.

Jane Goodall.

Dad.

You're that person for North Haven.

Gary can be that person.

Annie, you know I'm a hot mess.

Please stay.

Gary, you've got this.

Need a hand, Squish Monster?

Thanks, Aunt Annie.

You know, Iris, did I ever tell you that you're my favorite niece?

I'm your only niece.

And I don't want you to go.

So, today's a big day.

Yes.

About that.

Finished it.

Well, I, um, I finished most of it.

I lost one of the pages.

Then I spilled coffee on another.

It was a whole thing.

So?

So, uh, about the dogs.

Um, I've decided to keep them.

Oh, boy.

You can't be serious.

I really didn't mean to string you along.

We had an agreement.

I know, and I'm sorry.

But here's the thing.

I don't think either of you are a great match for these dogs.

Don't get me wrong.

You're great people, and any animal would be lucky to have you.

Just not these animals.

Jake, you work too much.

You said it yourself.

You work 18-hour days.

Yeah, I do.

But I have Mondays off sometimes.

You don't have time for a dog.

But have you ever considered a turtle?

I haven't.

Meet Jerry.

He would love it if you would be his person.

Oh.

He comes with his own DIY terrarium that's

pretty spectacular, and a hat he refuses to wear.

It's kind of awesome.

Yo.

And he's vegan.

I'll take him.

And Stacy.

You love animals, but you don't love animal hair.

Have you ever considered a hairless cat?

May I present to you, Bigglesworth.

Whoa.

He's a totally amazing cat that won't disturb any of your black clothes.

I do really hate getting fur on my clothes and furniture.

I just thought that it was sexy.

That's something I needed to get over.

You don't have to get over anything with Bigglesworth.

I love him.

Great.

You know, sometimes the answer is right in front of you and you just can't see it.

Hey, Granddad.

What does an elf study in school?

I don't know.

The alphabet.

Thanks, Mom.

There you are.

We've been waiting for you.

I wouldn't miss Christmas Eve dinner with my family for anything in the world.

Wait.

Why are Rocket and Banjo with you?

I thought that today was adoption day.

It is.

I'm adopting them.

You are?

And I'm not going anywhere.

What about the promotion?

I realize I can make the most difference right here.

I talked the helping initiative into letting my

first project be managing Gary's animal rescue.

I hope that's okay.

I can't believe it.

Well, blow me away with a feather.

That is the best Christmas present ever.

Oh.

Stop.

Oh.

You guys.

That's good.

What's this?

Just open it.

You found it.

Thank you.

Thank you.

Thank you.

Oh, don't take all the sweet potato.

I'm not.

I'm just taking all the marshmallows off the top.

Hey.

I'll get it.

Hey.

Hey.

Is something wrong with the animals?

No.

No.

Nothing's wrong with the animals.

Um.

What's up?

Bagelsworth and Stacy.

And Jerry and Jake.

That was your handiwork.

Okay.

I just thought it was a better fit for them.

I'm keeping the dogs.

Your what?

Told you I'd find them a perfect home in two weeks.

Great.

It's cheating.

But it's great.

Only problem is, you never filled out an application.

They're way too long.

Sorry.

Rules are rules.

Seriously?

Hmm.

First question.

Who's your favorite author?

Easy one.

Anyone who writes a how-to book.

You're always trying to better yourself.

You're like a constant student.

Next question.

Who is your inspiration?

Your mom.

You've got her generous spirit.

Her joyful living.

Important question.

Do you have any pet allergies?

No.

But I've noticed that dogs do something to your voice.

Two more.

If you could change one thing in the world, what would it be?

And I've got two answers for this.

One, end all suffering.

True.

What's the second?

Make green sprinkles mandatory on mistletoe mochas.

Which would end all suffering?

Last question.

What's your greatest wish?

No.

What's your greatest wish?

My greatest wish in the world is that you would be with me.

You know someone once told me that we must

take adventures to know where we truly belong?

They sound wise.

Guys, so you're staying?

No.

I'm just not going anywhere.

Merry Christmas.