Original subtitles

I got your card. I really appreciate the invite, Aunt Dora, but I can't make it.

Things at work are just crazy busy.

I will.

I promise.

I love you, too.

Merry Christmas, Miss Aldrich. Merry Christmas, Jimmy.

You finished your shopping?

Haven't even had a chance to start. Two more weeks. You better get to it.

Large coffee, no cream, no sugar.

Maggie, you are a lifesaver. You have a meeting on the photo spread with Swerve

at 10. The editorial leadership meeting is at 10 .30. Then you have a call with

Epic at 11 .30. What about lunch?

I don't have anyone scheduled for today. Okay, great. I'll take it at my desk.

Did the DJ confirm that extra mic?

She has, and I have you scheduled for a walkthrough downstairs at 4 p .m. Great.

I hope you're going home to see your family for the holidays.

No, I figured I'd stay in town this year.

Are you sure?

Yeah, I'm excited to spend my first Christmas in New York City.

I don't blame you. I remember my first Christmas in New York.

It was magical.

Hey, I'm going to be here working over the holiday.

You want to hang out?

My boyfriend's flying in from Dallas.

Oh, yeah. Well, I'm probably going to be really busy.

Sorry. I get it.

That's Garrett's assistant.

He wants to see you.

I was very impressed by the piece you edited on the Miami Jazz Festival. The

story was great. The photography was beautiful.

I appreciate that.

You're not just a talented editor.

You're a great leader.

I got a feeling that next year is going to be an exciting one for the magazine

and for you.

Well, I like the sound of that.

Speaking of exciting, I got to go work on my speech for the Christmas party.

I'll see you there. Okay.

Cheers.

The party is amazing.

The food is fantastic. The DJ's killing it.

And the Christmas cheer is flowing freely.

Thank you, Maggie.

I heard a rumor that Santa might have something special for you this year.

We'll see.

Merry Christmas, everyone.

I just want to take this moment to thank all of you for making it another great

year at Harmony Beat magazine.

A magazine like Harmony Beat is built on

the talent, hard work, and dedication of its people. You guys are so

talented. Congratulations on another great year.

There's one person in particular I want to recognize.

One person who has worked night and day to make this magazine a success.

One person who I am proud to be promoting to executive editor.

Charlie Townsend.

Charlie, come on up.

Amber, I tried to find you at the Christmas party.

Hey, I was just finishing up some paperwork so I could take off for the

holidays. Take off?

I thought you were working over Christmas.

I was, and I love Christmas in New York, but my Aunt Dora... Dora Duchamp,

right? Yeah, she's... I'm a huge fan. I saw her at Madison Square Garden 15

years ago. She blew the roof off.

Yeah, she's pretty amazing. A real force of nature.

She wants me to come home to Colorado.

Is something wrong?

No, she bought a hotel about five years ago after she retired, and every

Christmas she asked me to come spend it with her.

And I thought, this year... You want to give Charlie time to settle into his new

position as executive editor.

Something like that.

Amber, I... I'm sorry the promotion didn't go your way.

It's okay. It's okay. I mean, Charlie is a great editor.

But... But honestly, I'm going to have to think about what my role might look

like working under him.

Nothing has to change.

Maybe it should.

Why don't we talk tomorrow and maybe brainstorm over the holidays? I know you

were pitching some new ideas last quarter.

I'd like that.

And thank you again for organizing the Christmas party.

It was great. You're welcome.

Hey, Maggie, I was working up some ideas on the train and I was thinking about a

possible proposal for a spinoff to the magazine.

Amber Aldridge?

Hang on one sec.

Please be careful with the bag and load it vertically, not horizontally. It has

Christmas presents inside.

Thanks.

So, anyway... Vertically, not horizontally.

Merry Christmas to you, too.

You're Dora's niece, right?

Excuse me?

Dora Deschamps?

She's your aunt?

Yes.

When was the last time you were home?

It's not really my home anymore.

I left years ago.

Excuse me.

Hey, Garrett.

Yeah, I'm just having Maggie send some ideas to you about a new magazine.

Huh?

Here's your bag.

Oh, you can just set it up there on that step.

Oh, uh, let me give you a tip.

No, it's fine.

Oh, no, I know some car services don't allow their drivers to take tips, but

from New York, and I always... Really, it's fine.

Oh, come on. Everybody needs a little something extra during the holidays.

I can't.

You know, if I've offended you in some way... No, you haven't offended me, ma

'am.

Ma 'am?

You just call me ma 'am.

You make me sound like my grandmother.

Amber Aldridge, is that you?

Hey! Aunt Dora!

You look like skin and bones.

I think I've got to get some food into you. I was just finishing up with this

gentleman here.

Alan, I want a big Christmas hug from you, too. Yeah.

Wait a sec. You two know each other?

Yes, Alan and I are friends.

All the taxis in town were booked, and Kenny's car was here in the shop.

So I asked Alan to come and pick you up from the train station.

I'm so sorry. I thought he was a driver from the car service.

Yeah, I noticed.

Alan's a very talented musician.

And did you introduce yourself to my niece? I tried.

She was too busy with her phone.

I have a very demanding job.

Oh, no, I understand.

You're a New Yorker.

I think we should try the introduction one more time.

Alan Marshall, meet my niece, Miss Amber Aldrich.

Alan Marshall, nice to meet you.

Pleasure's mine.

Dora, I've got to go.

Katie will be waiting for me.

I appreciate what you did for me. Bye.

Bye -bye.

He's such a nice man.

Amber. Kenny.

Hey.

Oh.

Kenny, you are looking sharp.

Well, you know, I quit the road when Dora retired, so I had to get cleaned up

for the new gig.

Wait, the inn needs a sound engineer?

No, Kenny basically keeps everything going around here. If something breaks,

will fix it. If something's missing, he'll find it.

He's my rock.

I'll do what I can.

It's great to have you back home, Amber.

I'll take you back up to your room. No, I got it.

All right, Pip.

Kenny's looking good. And so are you, by the way. I try, dear.

There's Bonnie.

Can I put you on hold?

It is so good to see you, Faye.

Oh, hey, Bonnie.

I hear you're writing things over at Harmony Beat Magazine.

I wish.

We'll visit later? Yeah. Can't wait to catch up with you.

Wow.

Oh, it's just like I remember it.

You remember every Christmas Eve we'd all be down here for caroling and hot

chocolate.

Yep, and Mom and Dad used to sit right by that fireplace, and you and I would

park ourselves at that piano all night long.

Good times.

Christmas Eve caroling night was a big part of why I bought this beautiful

place. Well, I'm glad you did, and I'm glad I came.

Are you going to go see your old house?

I don't really think so.

It doesn't really feel like home, and it'd be kind of weird without my

But it's been way too long, Amber. I know.

I know I've been meaning to come visit, but... Life.

Yeah, life.

So I'm going to go freshen up and unpack.

I'll be right back. I'll see you in a little bit. I want to talk to you about

our school fundraiser.

Sure.

Merry Christmas, Mom and Dad.

Come in.

Amber? Leah!

Oh, my goodness!

I am so happy to have you back home for Christmas. It's so great to see you.

I love the room.

I know, right? Isn't it just beautiful?

Yeah. Hey, we should celebrate.

You want something from the minibar? Oh, no thanks.

I came to take you to the Christmas tree lighting ceremony.

Um, I should probably run that by Dora. I already did.

She's too busy here with the hotel, but she wanted me to take you anyway.

I have so much work to do.

Come on, you just got here.

Bill and Josie are going to be at the tree. They can't wait to see you. You

them I was going. I did.

They should be up at the front.

Amber! Bill!

And who is this beautiful young lady next to you? This is Josie Petunia

Josie Petunia! It's so nice to finally meet you.

You too.

Hello, everybody, and Merry Christmas!

If there are any out -of -towners here, I would like to welcome them to Silver

Springs, the most Christmassy town in the great state of Colorado.

We have a full holiday schedule this year, starting with tonight's Christmas

tree lighting ceremony, the Christmas Street Festival, the Gingerbread House

building competition, and finally, the Christmas fundraiser concert for the

school music program.

So here we go.

Let's all count down.

Five, four, three, two, one.

Hey, Bill.

Hey, Amber. Have you met our neighbor, Ellen?

Yes, we met earlier today.

Hi. Again.

Amber, this is my daughter, Katie.

Nice to meet you, Katie.

Is this the pretty lady you were telling Bill about?

That's not exactly what I said.

Oh, that's right. You said pretty bossy.

Your dad is right about that. Amber can be pretty bossy. She can't help herself,

but we love her anyway.

Which is why it is so perfect that you two are going to be working together.

What do you mean, working together?

Didn't Dora tell you?

Alan's the local high school music teacher.

You two are going to be organizing the fundraiser together.

Aunt Dora. Yeah?

Why didn't you tell me you had signed me up to work with Alan for the

fundraiser? I meant to after you unpacked last night, but then Leah

off to the Christmas tree lighting.

How long have you been working with him? About five years now.

Since you came back? Yes.

I really wanted to get back to the community.

I love seeing the children's faces when they get their first instrument, when

they play their first song. But this year, the inn is 100 % booked, and I

some help.

Well, I'm willing to do anything I can to help you, but Alan is a little stiff.

Honey, Alan's a big old teddy bear underneath.

Sorry to interrupt, but we have a guest stranded at the train station.

Can you sing Kenny?

He's busy trying to fix the furnace.

I'll be back. Okay.

Keep rapping. All right.

I'll catch up with you later. Okay.

Okay, good, good.

But you want to bring some joy to it, some energy, all right?

Okay, let's try it again.

So is your old high school auditorium bringing back any fond memories?

Band practice with Mr. Kowalski. Oh, he was so intense.

And then there was that bad English accent you had when you played Lady

Hey, I got a lot of compliments for that accent.

Oh, but the musical concerts were always a lot of fun.

Your Aunt Dora giving us a standing ovation.

That was something special. I still remember that night.

Yeah, it was pretty great.

Anyway, what are you doing here?

Parent volunteer.

I am in charge of decorations for the fundraiser.

Fantastic. We're going to be working together. I know.

That's awesome.

So this is where the party's going to be?

Party?

Yeah, the party after the concert.

You know, a little food, a little wine, a lot of fundraising. We've never really

had a party before.

So how do you sell tickets?

We don't. So how do you raise money?

We put a donation box in the back.

A donation box?

That's it? Yeah, we raised about $800 last year.

Oh, I think we can do better than that.

I've tried to talk to Alan about making some changes, but he's not big on

compromising. Well, neither am I.

Great rehearsal, everybody.

We'll see you tomorrow.

Hey, Alan, could I have a word with you back in the auditorium?

Of course.

Will you keep an eye on Katie for a minute? Sure. We'll meet you at the

Christmas festival later.

Let's go.

So you've been in charge of the fundraiser for a while now, huh?

That's right.

Since your aunt started it.

And the purpose of the fundraiser is to raise money for the school music

program? Well, we have a grant from the school board to cover most of our costs.

You see, the event is more of a showcase for the kids. We don't need to raise

that much money.

I'm going to help you with that.

Help me how?

Where's the Christmas?

I don't understand.

I mean, there are hardly any Christmas decorations, and the stage has no set

dressing. That's because I like the theater the way it is.

All plain like that?

Exactly. The simplicity allows the audience to focus on the kids.

I think we can do better.

Oh, really?

Better how?

Make it festive.

The whole point of a fundraiser is to raise money, and in order to raise

we need to sell tickets.

All right.

Dora told me that you're a big -time New York magazine editor, and you're used

to calling the shots.

Hmm. Where are we going with this?

See this?

It's just a small town fundraiser, and we've been doing just fine without

selling tickets.

But we could start.

Wouldn't it be great to have a silent auction and a raffle?

I mean, we could make it into a real Christmas event. It already is a real

Christmas event.

It's our tradition.

But traditions can change, can't they?

Not this one.

Okay, let's back this up.

Dora asked me to help organize the fundraiser. So I heard.

Okay, look, I'm on your side.

I really am.

I grew up here in Silver Springs.

I went to high school here.

I learned how to play piano right here in this room.

I want to help you. I really do.

But I don't want to argue with you.

I don't want to argue either.

Okay, well, I think I can help you take this event to the next level.

But if you're not willing to listen to any of my ideas, then I don't even

know what I'm doing here.

You know, maybe Dora just wanted to keep you busy over the holidays.

Keep me busy?

Really?

You think so?

Wait, that didn't come out quite right.

What I meant to say... No, no, it's okay. I get it.

You don't need me here.

First I get passed up for a promotion at work, and then I volunteer to work for

free, but Alan doesn't want to work with me either.

Oh, he'll come around.

And personally, I love having you on the team.

I love working with you too, but Alan is taking all the fun out of fundraising.

It's his first Christmas along with Katie, so... I just got an email from

school board.

That can't be right.

What is it?

They're cutting our funding for the music program.

Does that mean we can't learn music anymore?

Absolutely not, Katie.

Rack bed!

Dad, what do you think my clothes say about me?

Um... I'm not sure.

Is this a trick question?

That Amber lady looks so stylish.

She's from New York.

They tend to dress up a little out there.

Why can't we dress up?

We can.

But first, we need to eat breakfast.

I made Santa pancakes.

I'm not really hungry.

These are just like the pancakes your mom makes.

You think mom makes them in California?

Katie?

Your mom and I both love you very much.

And you spent last Christmas with her, and we all agreed that you'd spend this

Christmas with me. I know.

And then you can go to California for spring break, and even the summer if you

want to.

I love you, Dad.

I love you so much.

Now why don't you try your pancakes and see if they're any good.

Delicious. These Christmas decorations are really pretty.

Josie and I made them with Liam. Can we put them on our Christmas tree?

We're getting a Christmas tree, right?

Yes, of course.

We're going to get the best Christmas tree on the lot.

Large coffee, no cream, no sugar. Thank you, Kenny.

I should figure out my caffeine habits so quickly.

I remembered when you used to visit us on the road.

That was a long time ago.

And my mind was still trapped.

Apparently.

You know, I heard a rumor that part of your job was to remind Dora to call me

my birthday.

Yeah, I deny everything.

You're such a good friend to her, Kenny.

She's more than a friend.

She's family.

And I'm so glad you're back home, Amber, because she hasn't been herself the

past couple of years.

Oh, there she is. Morning, Amber.

How did you sleep?

Like a baby.

There's something about the air up here.

And I was just thinking about your idea to bring back the Christmas carol sing

-along. Actually, it was your idea, Aunt Dora, but go on.

I'm going to do it.

That's great.

You know, I would love to help you, I really would, but I have to go meet with

Alan so we can figure out how to save the school music program.

What are you talking about?

The school board pulled the funding.

Can you tell me what we're doing here?

Merry Christmas to you too, Alan.

Sorry. Merry Christmas.

Can you please explain how Santa's Village is going to help save the school

music program?

Well, since you asked me so nicely, I just might do that.

Go ahead.

Okay. Look at the stage.

It's beautiful.

Exactly. The costumes, the set decorations, the design, everything is

together to create a whole world.

A very expensive world. Money we don't have.

Sometimes you have to spend money to make money. We don't have a budget for

and costumes, Amber.

You let me worry about that.

When you take kids playing Christmas music and you add the right costumes and

decorations, it creates a certain atmosphere and emotion.

Well, it makes people nostalgic.

Exactly. It makes them feel good. It makes them want to buy raffle tickets

fit in the silent auction. We don't have a silent auction. Yet. We don't have a

silent auction yet.

Look, I can see how much it means to you, and I know the kids really look up

you.

I'm just trying to enhance the experience for your audience.

We're all going to have to step it up and make this work.

Fair enough.

What else do you have in mind?

Amber Aldridge. Is that you?

Reverend, how are you? Good to see you. You must know Alan.

All too well. He beats me at poker every Saturday.

Then I pray for forgiveness every Sunday.

It is wonderful that you two are working together on the school fundraising.

You are both extraordinary individuals.

Oh, excuse me.

Oh, will you excuse me? I have a little issue at the end. I gotta get back.

Send my regards to Dora. Will do.

Bye -bye.

She has always been a treasure.

Hey, Garrett.

How's Charlie settling into his new role?

He went down to Florida to visit his family for the holidays, so I'm holding

down the fort.

Ah. Okay, so how can I help you?

I was telling the board about your idea for a spin -off to the magazine, and

they want to hear about it. Right now?

No, I want you to pitch it to me first.

Oh, okay.

Well, you know we're already developing an online magazine for the teen space,

right? I want to go the opposite direction.

Go old school.

Target the boomers.

Let's call it something like vintage.

I like it. If you want to work up a PowerPoint, I can show it to the board

the holidays.

Actually, Garrett, there is one more thing I wanted to run past you.

I'm working on a fundraiser for a local school music program.

Actually, my local school where I learned to play piano.

Oh, good for you.

Yeah, and I was wondering if maybe the magazine might be a sponsor.

It's not really the kind of thing we do.

Harmony Beat Magazine reaches out to the community to support local music

programs.

Feels a lot like Christmas.

I'll tell you what.

You get me an interview with Dora Duchamp, and I'll give you whatever you

Well, I don't know if I can do that. Dora is not crazy about the press.

So maybe you could do the interview yourself.

I don't work as a writer anymore.

That doesn't mean that you've forgotten how to write. It was how you got your

start.

I've never heard that piano sound so beautiful.

Hardly. I haven't played in a long time, but there's something about being back

here. Makes me want to play again.

We have a lot to talk about.

I know.

I know we do.

And we will.

I just need some time.

All right.

Oh, I have some good news about the fundraiser. I called my boss, and he

to sponsor the fundraiser to help us cover some of the costs.

That's fabulous.

But there is one condition.

There always is.

They want you to do an interview with the magazine.

You know I don't like to talk to the press.

They're always trying to stir up some kind of trouble. I know, I know, Aunt

Dora, but it would just be me, and it would really make a huge difference for

our fundraiser.

Please.

Okay, I'll do anything for the kids.

Thank you.

Made you a little Christmas shopping list.

Well, where are we getting the money to pay for all this?

And Dora agreed to do an interview with Harmony Beat, and they're paying me for

it. That's fantastic.

Yeah. There's no way we can get all this stuff by next week.

Watch me.

We need more icing and sprinkles.

People love sprinkles.

You were meant to be decorating and selling the Christmas cookies, not

them.

You have to make sure they taste good.

Okay, last one.

Hey. Hi.

Katie and Josie are in the back.

Actually, we're here to see both of you.

Oh, finally. Someone here to see me. What can I do for you?

How would you feel about catering the fundraiser? You two do such a great job

with this restaurant.

Catering like cookies?

No, like high -end appetizers, hors d 'oeuvres, mini desserts.

How many people are we talking about?

We only had about 50 last year.

Could you do 150?

150?

That's ambitious.

We're reaching out to people all across the community. If we really want to save

this music program, we're going to have to think bigger.

Yeah, I could do 150. The Kitchener is big enough.

Great. Do you think you could come up with a sample menu we could try?

Sure. I used to cater Christmas parties in Denver back in the day. The trick is

to keep it simple, yet elegant.

I love that.

Well, Alan and Katie are coming over for dinner tonight, so why don't you join

and we can make it a tasting party?

And that way you can see the new house.

That's a great idea.

Is that going to give you enough time?

Sure. It's just us.

Amber. I'm so sorry. Are you okay?

Oh, I'm fine.

I got this.

Did you buy every wreath at the tree farm?

Well, I wanted the auditorium to look a little bit more festive.

We're getting a Christmas tree.

Nice. Dad said we can get the best Christmas tree here.

Well, it's a good thing you ran into me.

Oh, so you're an expert on Christmas trees too, are you? As a matter of fact,

am. I used to work out here during high school.

Come on, let's take a look.

Christmas tree in the world. The best Christmas tree in the world? There's so

many great ones. There's the grand fir and the Fraser fir.

But my favorite?

It's the noble fir. It has the strongest branches and the best smell.

Yeah?

Finally something we can agree on.

It's perfect.

I'll make you a deal.

I'll help you carry these wreaths to your car if you give me a hand with this

tree.

Got a deal.

Can you help us decorate our Christmas tree?

Um, well, that's up to your dad.

Dad, she's a Christmas tree expert.

Okay. Yay!

A little to the right.

Ooh, too far.

Try the other way.

All right.

Okay, back a bit. Just a little bit.

A little more. A little more.

Okay.

Katie. I love it.

Not bad.

We make a good team.

to put the lights on first?

Well, not necessarily.

Dad, I think Amber's right about that.

If you say so.

Only one more left.

You do it, Amber.

Perfect.

Pretty tree.

Thanks. Mom says it's time for the food tasting.

Great. Okay. We'll be right over.

So cute.

Oh. Huh?

I love your house. Oh.

Thanks. We just moved in last year.

It's beautiful. It's beautiful.

So, I thought we would have a Christmas theme for the food.

And first, we have a mini cranberry glazed meatball. Ooh, I've got to try

those.

All right. We've got bacon -wrapped water chestnuts. All right.

Mmm, Bill.

And you are a great cook, but these are amazing.

Well, before we try any more of my husband's amazing food, I would just

make a toast.

It is so good to have Amber back home after all these years.

You've always been like a sister to me, and you always will be.

So happy to be here with you. Oh, me too.

So?

My toast for tonight is to good friends and family.

To good friends and family.

So, I haven't interviewed anyone in years, so I thought we could just chit

-chat, just keep it casual, just you and me.

Like we used to. Exactly, just like we used to. Yes.

What is your first musical memory?

That would be of my grandmother.

She used to sing to me and your mom when we were little babies.

And I can't remember how old I was, but what I remember is her voice. It was

clear as day, and she had the voice of an angel.

That's great.

Perfect.

What were your most important musical influences?

Well, I grew up in the church, and my foundation is gospel.

And your voice?

My voice is not my own.

It's a gift that flows through me. I'm just a vessel.

What's your favorite record?

Well, records are like family. You love them all equally.

How about your favorite song?

Same for songs, except the one I wrote for you. That's my favorite.

Amber and Gold.

That's my favorite, too.

Hey, Sammy, I was wondering if you'd be willing to donate anything to a silent

auction that I'm having for a Christmas fundraiser. Yeah, to raise money for a

music program.

I know it's a lot to ask, but I don't know, maybe you could donate one of your

guitars?

Really?

Oh, wow, that is great. You're the best. Thank you so much.

Do you have any regret?

A few more of them, Frank Sinatra.

Can you talk about them?

Hey, how are we doing with those raffle prizes?

Most of the local merchants in town are donating prizes.

Wow. Silver Springs is pretty special.

Not only that.

We got folks wanting to help out all the way from Telluride.

From Telluride?

Wow, I hear it's really beautiful up there.

Oh, it is.

Maybe I could show you one day.

Maybe you could.

What made you keep going out on the road?

The fans.

The fans were always so generous.

Perfect strangers would open up their homes to me, cook for me like I was

family.

But it wasn't always easy.

What do you mean by that?

I missed a lot of things back home.

Like what?

Your christening. Your mom said you screamed when that holy water splashed

your head.

Because the water was so cold. Oh, my mom used to love to tell that story.

She sure did.

Look. I've never had children of my own.

It didn't matter before because you and I were always a group.

You were such a special child, so full of joy and love.

And I've always been so proud of you, of all your accomplishments.

And I'm not sure I ever told you that.

You didn't have to tell me.

I felt it. I knew.

And everything you've ever done, from when you used to sing to me when I was a

little girl.

to paying for my college education.

You know, I always felt like I had two moms, and I've always been grateful for

that.

But then, when you needed me the most, after your parents died, I wasn't there

for you, honey.

You had to go back out on the road, Aunt Dora.

You had contracts.

I thank you for saying that, but the truth is, I should have been there for

And I'm so sorry that I wasn't.

I love you, Adora.

I love you, honey.

And I'm so sorry it's taken me so long to come home.

You're here now. That's all that matters.

So Alan said you designed a website for the fundraiser? Yeah, last year, but it

didn't get much traffic.

Fundraising extravaganza?

Love that.

Did Alan see this?

I'm not sure he even looked at the website last year.

Well, it's fantastic.

Oh, thanks.

Maybe we could include photos of all the different kids in the recital.

You could do a little write -up on each one of them. They could write something

themselves. Even better. They could write about how the music program makes

feel like they're part of a community and gives them a special bond.

Well, that's how we met, and we're still friends.

Exactly. And then you can edit it all and make it look all cool like you do

your magazine.

Done. Oh, and we could include a list of all the silent auction items, a raffle,

and we could maybe put a donations link.

That is perfect.

That's one of my favorite Christmas carols.

Mine too, but I can't get it right.

What's the problem?

I can't get the chord change for a happy new year.

Maybe if you pick up the tempo in the beginning, that might help you with the

transition. I don't get it.

Can I help?

If you pick up the tempo, it makes the tune seem a little bit more like a

celebration. Which is what it's meant to be.

Right. And when you smile when you're playing, that forces you to relax.

All right, now you try it from the beginning.

Good. Pick up the pace a little bit.

Very good.

Good. Where's your smile?

Where's that smile? I don't see any teeth. There they are.

Very good, Katie. You got it.

I did it. You did it. That was great.

That was awesome.

Hi, Dad. Did you hear me?

I did.

You were incredible.

Amber helped me.

She's pretty good.

She's amazing.

Actually, I'm a little rusty.

Oh, you don't seem so.

How are your construction skills?

My construction skills?

We're going to the Christmas gingerbread house building competition at church

tonight.

You want to come?

How's it going with Alan?

Oh, it's going great. The show's coming along really well.

That's not what I meant.

Oh, yeah.

He lives here in Colorado. I live in New York. It would never work.

How long has it been since you last went out on a decent date?

A while.

How long?

I honestly don't know.

Well, get to know him a little.

See what happens.

Yeah, I don't know.

When I came back home to Silver Springs, I thought it was just going to be for

the holidays.

And I know it hasn't been long, but it already feels like home again.

You know I'd love it if you moved back.

Hi, Katie.

Hi, Josie.

Cool house.

There's more gingerbread and decorations back here. Come on.

Sorry we're late.

Got a little clothing crisis.

Katie wants to be stylish now.

Oh, well, that happens.

I can't believe she's growing up so fast.

I just want to take a remote and put her on pause.

Yeah.

What kind of gingerbread house are you making?

A big skyscraper, like where you live in New York.

I don't think you can make that out of gingerbread.

Why don't you try to build a more traditional house, like the one you live

Silver Springs?

Great.

Well, let's get started.

This is Leah.

No.

What happened?

The pipes burst in the school auditorium.

I'm sorry.

We worked so hard on this.

We both did.

We can't cancel.

Not now.

It'll kill the music program.

I don't want to cancel the fundraiser either. The maintenance staff say

got to close down the auditorium for repairs.

Now these pies are all homemade.

We have cranberry apple pie, sweet potato pie, pumpkin cheesecake, and my

favorite, the Christmas pecan pie.

Oh, Bonnie, will you serve them, please? Thank you.

So, who's hungry?

So, how bad is it? The set decoration is ruined.

The decorations are trashed. We can't use the building anymore, and the

is in three days.

All you really need is a place for the kids to sing and something for the

audience to sit on. Yeah, but there's no theater in town, Aunt Dora. We can't do

it outside in the snow.

I've got an idea.

I mean, but do you really think people are going to pay for a concert at the

Silver Spring Fellowship Church?

Absolutely. Especially if you have someone they've heard of as a headliner.

Yeah, but somebody like who?

Me, baby.

Wait, but I thought you were retired.

I was retired, but watching how hard you've been working on the fundraiser

seeing how much you care for the kids, that makes me want to sing again.

Aunt Dora.

Okay, I'm going to go talk to Reverend Williams.

Okay, and for a fact, I know he loves Oh Holy Night.

This is awesome.

Yeah.

Are you?

Talking about a carol service?

No, it's just for the musical part of the school fundraiser. I understand, but

this is the house of worship.

I can't have any stages or sets in here so close to Christmas.

Yeah, but you don't need any. It already looks so beautiful in here.

Plus, I have a surprise for you. I do love a good surprise.

Okay. Aunt Dora is coming out of retirement to sing for the fundraiser.

I never thought I'd see the day.

And she said something about wanting to sing O Holy Night.

My favorite Christmas carol.

Tell me what you need.

What's going on here?

We have to let the folks know the show's been canceled.

Canceled? Who said anything about canceled?

Dad.

It's only two days until the concert.

It's better to let people know sooner rather than later. We did everything we

could, Amber.

North coming out of retirement?

Performing at the Silver Springs Fellowship Church just for our

That's amazing.

You heard

it, everyone.

The show is back on.

Good, right?

Yeah. What do you think?

Nice. Right? Look at that.

That's you.

Yeah. No pressure.

Dora Duchamp represents an old -school understatement, an elegance based on

absolute simplicity.

Her powerful voice is reminiscent of the great Harlem jazz clubs of the 20th

century, while her belief in the power of redemption and love is absolute.

And this... quote from dora is perfect all the songs i've ever loved tell a

story and for me that story is about family family first all the rest is

i love that amber this is great thanks garrett you know i really

enjoyed doing it it felt great to get those writing muscles working again i

like i was right there in the room with you talking to dora myself thank you

I wanted to ask you if you're available for an interview with the board of

directors tomorrow at 5.

Oh, about vintage?

No, about the whole thing.

I don't understand.

Charlie wasn't going to Florida after all. He's been poached by another

magazine. Oh.

So the job is yours for the asking, if the interview goes well.

You will be the next executive editor at...

Oh, thank you, Garrett. I don't really know what to say.

Well, good luck. And call me after the interview.

They sound lovely, don't they?

They really do.

You nervous about your performance?

Maybe. Just a little.

You're going to do great. You just have to keep practicing.

But I want it to be perfect.

Here's a little secret, Katie.

There's no such thing as a perfect piano performance.

I was so nervous the first time I performed in front of other people.

There was so much pressure.

But you know what my Aunt Dora told me? What?

Pressure makes diamonds.

Cool.

Hi,

Katie.

You sound great.

Yeah, we're getting there.

Katie's a little nervous about her performance.

All the kids feel that way.

She'll be fine.

She's staying with Lee and Bill tonight, and she can practice with Josie. That's

great.

So... It's the last night before the show.

I know. I can't believe it came up so quickly.

And I haven't eaten all day.

There are snacks in the church hall.

All right.

I was wondering if you have plans.

Plans? I have a million little things I need to get done before tomorrow.

Plans for dinner.

I want to take you to dinner as a way to say thank you for everything you've

done for the fundraiser.

Can we have a word?

Oh, uh, sure. I'll be right there.

We just need to figure out parking for tomorrow.

Okay.

Seven o 'clock.

I'll pick you up from the inn.

The date.

Hey.

Hey, girl.

Everybody's so excited about the show tomorrow night. I am, too.

Oh, it's my alarm.

I have a big interview to go to.

Good luck.

Amber, I'm just connecting you to the conference room now.

Amber?

Amber? Can you hear me?

Yeah, I hear you loud and clear.

You look amazing.

You look pretty amazing yourself.

Oh, and a gentleman, too, huh? I try.

You were so great with Katie on the piano.

Did you ever teach?

I used to, a little, after college.

Nice. Where'd you go?

Rossmoor School of Music.

Me, too.

What?

Wow.

So, you stopped playing?

Well, originally I wanted to be a concert pianist.

That was the dream.

But then I moved to New York and I realized there were thousands of

with more talent in their little finger than I had in my whole body, so... So

you quit playing?

Kind of. I mean, I sidestepped into music journalism.

I love Harmony Beat, by the way. Thanks.

Yeah. You still write for them?

Um, I did.

I'm an editor now.

Mmm.

Ooh, it's delicious.

Right?

Although Silver Springs must be a little boring for a fancy New York music

magazine editor.

Believe me, I am not that fancy.

And the New York magazine world isn't all it's cracked up to be.

I used to live in New York for a while.

Really? Lower East Side.

I mean, it was a tiny little walk -up, but I loved it.

Doris said you used to work as a musician.

Yeah, a long time ago.

I was a trumpet player.

Thought I'd be the next Miles Davis.

Then I met Tracy, my ex -wife.

We got married, and... I didn't want to raise a family in the city, so we moved

to Colorado.

Well, it is beautiful here. And it was perfect for a couple of years, but it

didn't work.

I'm sorry to hear that. No, no, no, it's okay.

It was for the best.

She got remarried a year ago and moved out to California.

Hmm.

So, what about you?

Anyone in your life?

Used to be.

I married a saxophone player a few years ago, and things were really good for a

while, but... Didn't work out.

Nope.

And I guess since then, I've just never found the right guy.

Well, here's to you finding the right guy.

I'll drink to that.

Can you just finish setting up the sound system in the church?

I'm going to go check it out.

I'd love to.

Mic check.

One, two, one, two.

Wow,

that sounds really good.

This has been fantastic.

Yeah. Kenny was Dora's sound guy for ten years, so he helped me pick it out.

Must have been expensive.

Got it comped in exchange for a mention in the magazine.

Amazing.

I love this song.

Well, you have great taste.

Oh, does that mean you have great taste, too?

It means we have certain things in common.

Oh, really?

Like what?

Well, first thing we have in common, we both love music.

Check.

We both love Dora.

Check.

We both love...

Yes?

Gingerbread.

Gingerbread?

And you have the best laugh I've ever heard.

How's it sound, Alan?

Good, Kenny.

Sounds great.

All right, well, I'm going to head home.

Thanks.

Good night, Kenny.

Good night.

Well, I should be getting back.

Yeah.

i had a great time tonight thank you so much the best

well big day tomorrow

it's gonna be great

Thank you.

Hey, how's it going?

Oh, great.

The silent auction and raffle are set up and Bill has got the food and drink

coming at five.

All we need is people to show up. Oh, they'll show up. Everybody in town is

talking about Dora coming out of retirement for this. The whole community

rallying behind her and our fundraiser. I think we might sell out.

How's Alan doing?

He's on cloud nine.

Good.

So I'm guessing the date went well?

It wasn't really a date.

Well, whatever it was, neither of you seem to be able to stop smiling today.

Hey, I can stop smiling whenever I want to.

Oh.

Well, go on, then.

I knew it.

Come on, spill.

She's sweet.

Sweet? Then let's just say we may have more than a few things in common.

Seriously, that's all you're giving me?

Enjoy the show.

Welcome. So glad you're here.

Two tickets. That'll be $40.

Love your ears.

Enjoy the show.

Look at you.

You look so relaxed.

That's on the outside.

Inside, it's a whole different story.

Well, we have a full house, and you're going to do just great.

I'm going to go check in with Bonnie.

Okay.

I wish your parents could see you now, Amber.

They'd be so proud of you.

Thank you.

And I am too.

I'm proud of you.

You're all going to be great.

Just remember to breathe and smile.

Keep your eyes on me and focus on the beat.

You've done the hard work, Katie. The music is in you.

Now it's time just to relax and have fun.

Okay. Okay.

Merry Christmas, everyone.

I want to thank you all for coming out tonight to raise money for the Silver

Spring School Music Program.

With our ticket sales and donation page,

we've already raised a record amount of money, enough to fund the school music

program for a whole year.

If any of you are feeling lucky, we have a raffle and a silent auction in the

church hall after the show.

And I know you're all excited about tonight's show.

So without further ado, I'd like to introduce our first performer and my

daughter, Katie Marshall.

Kids are so sweet, aren't they?

Beautiful.

You ready for this?

It's been five years since I've sung in front of an audience.

You are a legend, Aunt Dora.

You've still got it. I might need a little help.

Help with what?

And now, the moment you've all been waiting for.

Coming out of retirement for one night only, the indescribable Dora

Duchamp.

Thank you, thank you so very much.

I wasn't originally scheduled to perform tonight.

In fact, the whole concert was going to be canceled.

But then the town and the community came together and we worked to save it

because we all share love for the school music program. And more importantly, we

share love for each other.

None of us could have saved this concert on our own.

And I don't think I could sing this next song on my own either.

Amber, come and join Auntie.

the dear savior's birth long

You are amazing.

Hold this together, honey, and put this out.

How does it feel to be out of retirement?

Not bad at all.

I think I might have to sing every year at the fundraiser from here on out. I'll

be there with you every step of the way.

Dora says she wants us to hold a concert here again next year. Us?

So you're going to help next year too?

If it's okay with you.

I would love that.

She is determined to save this music program. She says she's going to perform

the concert every year from here on out.

And what about you?

You're right here with her.

So does that mean you're thinking of staying in Silver Springs?

About that. I had an interview yesterday.

For a job in town?

No, it was a Skype interview with the board of directors at Harmony Beat

magazine. They were considering me for executive editor for the whole magazine.

They'd be lucky to have you.

When you find out.

They already offered me the job in New York.

But I heard you tell Leah that you might move back here.

That's not exactly what I meant.

At the Gingerbread House competition.

I was walking up to the table, and I heard you tell Leah that Silver Springs

felt like home.

It does.

It does feel like home. That's why it's so hard to leave.

Look around at what you have here, Amber.

Friends.

Family.

People who love you and who you love too.

What job could be more important than that?

Alice.

This promotion?

I've been working my entire career towards this.

You see, I should go.

I need to get Katie back home to bed.

I'm telling you, I got goosebumps when I heard you sing. Thank you. I felt so

good.

Like old times.

It was.

Hey, baby girl, you look exhausted.

I didn't sleep last night.

You think you'll be able to play the piano?

I wouldn't miss it.

Well, I'm going to go get myself ready for later.

Have you gotten in touch with Alan yet?

I tried to call him, but he didn't respond.

I think it's too late, Aunt Dora.

He lived here. I live in New York. It was never going to work.

I changed my flight to after Christmas.

So who are you going to be with for the rest of the holiday? Nobody.

Just me and a carton of takeout Chinese.

You should be with family, honey.

Today is Christmas Eve. I have to go.

I have no choice.

Do you remember the time I told you that I had regrets?

About being on the road?

Exactly. I thought I had to choose between my career and my family. But I

have to choose one over the other. I could have had them both.

I just needed to figure out a way to make it work for me. And so do you.

I'm going to go take a walk into town.

Get some fresh air.

I'll be back.

Who wants my famous Christmas Eve Santa pancakes?

Thank you.

Nice.

Is Amber coming for breakfast?

No. I think she's heading back to New York soon.

But I didn't get to say goodbye.

We're all going to the Christmas carol sing -along at the inn later.

I don't think we're going to make it.

What?

Maybe you can give Amber a call instead.

Why didn't you call her back?

So, what are you gonna do about Amber? I'm not sure what to do.

Well, is it?

Yes.

You know, I've known you for a long time, and I have never seen you look at

another woman the way that you look at Amber.

She's going back to New York.

Did you ask her to stay?

I mean, not exactly.

Women like Amber, they don't come around every day.

And when you finally find someone like that, someone that you really connect

with, you've got to fight for them.

You can't give up.

You can't quit.

Hi, you've reached Amber. Leave a message.

I want the voicemail. I have to go find Amber. She's got to be at the carol

service.

Okay.

Let's all go.

All right.

Have you seen Alan?

Honey, I don't think he's coming.

Is everything okay?

Can I borrow your car?

Yeah.

Thanks, Kenny.

I wasn't coming to find you.

I need to tell you something.

Me too.

I'm really sorry for walking away from you last night. It wasn't fair.

And I'm really sorry for springing that New York stuff on you at the church.

That wasn't fair either.

You don't need to apologize.

We both always knew you were going back to New York.

But I realize I haven't told you how I feel.

These last few days with you have been amazing.

And I don't want you to leave.

I want you to stay.

I turned down the job.

What? I turned down the promotion.

You've been working towards this position your whole life.

You can't leave the magazine.

The whole experience interviewing Dora, it made me remember the feeling I had

when I first started in this business.

The feeling that I had being a writer.

I want to get back to that feeling.

A passion.

Are you sure?

I am.

And guess where I have to live in order to be a freelance journalist?

Anywhere you want.

And where I want to be is right here in Silver Springs.

It was the greatest Christmas gift I could ever wish for.

You knew this was going to happen, didn't you?

I hope.

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