Original subtitles

Hallmark Movies and Mysteries presents a 2021 Miracles of Christmas All -New

Original.

Gingerbread, gingerbread, gingerbread house.

One more time.

Marshmallow, peppermint, sugar, plum pie.

You're making me hungry.

Well, we're done for the day. Will this help?

This was one of the best Christmas gifts you and Mom ever got me.

Worked wonders for my stage fright.

It just doesn't seem like Christmas yet.

Yeah, it will.

But now we're due at the school.

Right. I'll go get our coats.

We need a treat.

Uh -huh.

When? Watch what you're doing there.

I need another wrench.

Which one?

Um, what's the name?

Um, the wrench with the thingy on the other side.

Ratchet. That. Can I have it?

Please? Please, can I have the 5 -8 wrench with the ratchet on the other

and can we please get a tree sometime this actual week and listen to another

station instead of this? Please? Oh, please, dear father?

How could I say no to that?

Classical, I presume?

My favorite.

Hey, we're doing this one in the Christmas recital. Oh, yeah? How's

coming together?

Uh, it's okay. As long as I need help on my technique.

All teachers say that.

Just because you didn't like your music teacher doesn't mean... Katie Cat,

either the music is in you or it isn't.

Uh -huh. I just want to be real good, like you.

Come back out here.

This recital's real important to you, isn't it?

It's the first one without Miss Hendricks, and everyone's making it

special, so I need to get it right.

Okay.

Well, maybe I can look into getting you some extra help, like a tutor or teacher

or something.

That'd be cool.

Great. Okay.

And can we go to Grandma's too to get mom's little decorations?

You just keep asking things, don't you?

Yes, we can.

Maybe.

French. Please.

Please?

Kids are really getting there. And the lineup is all set.

And Tim, I was thinking, maybe you could give a speech for Joanna?

What, me?

No, I don't really do public speaking. I'm more of a behind -the -scenes

guy. Besides, you're head of the music department now. Oh, just the interim

head. I'm just filling in while they find a new head for the department.

So, what do you say?

Come on, Dad.

It's the inaugural year of Mom's Instrument Fund. What's the worst that

happen? People get bored, people check their phones, people forget to donate.

Sweetheart, there's a reason why your mom was up front on these things.

Remember that year that she got Grumpy Greg to donate three saxophones to the

music department?

Yeah.

I'll miss her for a billion reasons, but to have this fund in her memory really

feels like we're continuing her work.

Okay. Okay, I'll write a speech.

Great. Next up, the silent auction.

I'll be great.

Let me know if you need anything else.

You look gorgeous.

Aw, thanks, Sheila. You too. Oh, I have your gift back in the back. Feel free to

file some music seats while sitting there waiting for me. Mm -hmm.

All right, let's see.

Excuse me, ma 'am.

Hi. Hi.

I'm here to pick up music for my daughter, Katie.

Yeah, sure.

Just a moment.

Katie. Hey, Katie.

Your daughter is very advanced.

No, I just found it online. Katie said she needed some help with technique.

Oh, okay. I see. I would actually recommend Vivaldi's concerto in A minor.

has a lot of scale work in it. That might be better for her. Sure, I'd take

the help I can get. Classical music's not really my thing.

Better with country.

Okay, that's different.

Oh, I take it you're not a fan.

All that, uh, my dog, my truck, my woman done me wrong. And it started to sound

the same after a while.

You know, some people might say the same thing about classical.

Well, you would be wrong.

Classical has the advantage of no outdated lyric.

Oh, but those strings, they just put you to sleep.

I play one of those strings.

You know, maybe you shouldn't be such a music snob if you work in a music store.

Well, I don't work here, for one. And for another... Oh, you just walk into

random joints and you freelance your opinion.

My best friend Sheila owns this joint.

And I do believe that you started it.

Here you go!

Sean! Hi.

Hey, Sheila.

Hi. I see you're my best... my best friend in the world.

Did you get the piece?

Yeah, uh...

She sent me out.

What do I owe you for it? I'll put it on your account.

Thank you.

And Merry Christmas, best friend. Merry Christmas.

Bye, Sheila.

Do you even know who that was?

Sean Grant.

Who?

Country music star.

Really? Yeah.

Seriously. City girl.

Red tail hawk. Sweet huckleberry.

Maybe that last one? I don't know. Oh, you are the weirdest.

The green dress pants.

Uh -huh. Or red dress.

What do you think? For the recital.

Oh.

It's fine.

I'll just ask Grandma.

Sorry, kiddo.

Why do you put the clothes away and meet me downstairs? Because you are on

potato duty.

Katie Cat, where are you? I'm here.

Look who made it to the country.

Hi, Katie.

Now, I still do not understand why you guys choose to live out in the middle of

nowhere. We like it here.

And less guests.

All right.

Those look like Christmas presents. No, those are Hanukkah presents.

No, but you can't open them until the first night.

Not that.

Oh, I know. It's, um, tomorrow.

Yes.

Want to scrub some potatoes?

I just got here and you're putting me to work? Oh, I think she learned that from

you. Oh, you think, eh? Uh -huh. You, fire up some music. Something good.

Something country. Maybe some early Sean Grant.

Oh. Huh?

And you, let's fire up something in the kitchen.

Okay. Huh?

No. Huh? Look at this concentration.

I've had at most one bar on my cell phone since I've been here. My boots,

they're new. They're caked in mud. I can hate the countryside.

Huh? Also, you guys don't have a single recording studio out here on what? How

many acres?

129. And a half.

So what about horses?

Horses are okay. Oh, great, because we are putting you up in the stables for

night. No, I got myself a hotel room in the actual town.

Oh, well, that sounds like a good idea to me, Hersh, because every time I come

out here to this ranch, it seems like it's getting farther and farther away.

It is.

Hey, Grandma. Hi, baby.

Let me fix you a plate, Ruthie. No, that's all right. I'm just here to keep

promise. Grandma's going to braid my hair. Yes, I am.

Come on. I got all this new product. Wait till you see what I have.

You do her hair and I'll...

Finish alone.

Cookies?

Oh, those look delicious, Dad.

Well, thanks. It was bake or write my speech.

Who's this singing?

Oh, that's Sean Grant.

He does Christmas music, too. Oh, just this one. It was a benefit album.

I ran into him at Sheila's store this afternoon.

Really? Mm -hmm.

That's a rare sighting.

Why is that?

He keeps doing self most of the time.

Moved here after his wife passed away about three years ago.

His daughter's in your mom's music program.

So let's talk nice about him.

He's got a great voice, doesn't he?

Oh, how are you feeling?

I'm excited and nervous. It's my first time performing a solo, so... Oh, I

remember my first solo.

Oh, we're going to have to fix your hair up. Real special for that.

You got any ideas?

Cornrows, box braids?

Um, I want to wear it out.

Maybe, but... But what?

But I think it should be slicked back. It looks more professional.

More professional?

Did somebody tell you that?

No, but I've seen it on social media, so... I think it's good to stand out.

You be proud of who you are and what you are.

And no matter how you wear your hair, it will be beautiful, just like you.

All right.

We got to get it started.

Knock, knock.

I thought you could use something sweet.

Thank you.

Oh, thank you.

Hey,

Ruthie, you got a minute?

Sure.

You think about it, okay? Because whatever you want to do with your hair,

what we're going to do. All right? All right. I'll be right back.

You two okay in there?

Oh, we're fine.

Braiding time is bonding time.

She talks, I listen.

Before you know it, she'll be braiding her own hair. Different tools than I'm

used to working with.

I'm sure.

Have you had a chance to talk with Katie about the recital?

She seems a little anxious.

Yeah.

Yeah, actually, I got that impression earlier.

I think she doesn't want to just play the part.

She wants to look the part.

Look, it's normal.

And when she was little, she noticed the difference between you and Allison. But

now that she's older, she can articulate her feelings better. She's getting

smarter every day.

More inquisitive, more curious.

I don't have the answers.

Of course you don't. I mean, sometimes you will, sometimes you won't.

But...

All you have to do is keep being Katie's dad.

Here.

Oh, this is good.

I know how to make a good hot chocolate.

Too many marshmallows, but that's okay.

There he is.

How's Katie doing?

Looks like you're getting the hang of things.

Yeah, yeah.

It's just the whole without Allison part I'm struggling with.

So, dare I ask, what's the news?

Can't a guy just sit back with a cup of hot chocolate and chat about the

realities of fatherhood?

How is it, by the way? Dude, a mountain of marshmallow.

That's the way we do it on the ranch.

All right, man, listen.

The label is really laying on the pressure.

A lot of pressure. No more delays. You've got to get back to Nashville.

got to get in the studio and record that album.

What if I can't?

I've heard that song before. Everybody has heard that song before.

What if I refuse to?

Eventually you'll be in breach of contract.

People are forgetting about you, Sean.

Your fans are only going to stick by this sad widower part for so long.

Hirsch, come on.

I'm starting to feel like you've run away to West Virginia.

What if... What if I don't have anything to say?

What if you got something new to say?

About loss.

About being a dad.

About driving that big old pickup truck to PTA meetings.

I'm just worried that if you close the door now, you're not going to be able to

get through it again later.

Wow.

Oh, he's here.

Who? My teacher.

Your what?

My violin teacher, the one you texted.

Wait, your violin teacher? I didn't... Katie Elizabeth Grant, what did you

do? You said I could have a teacher. Who I would find.

Look, we have to be careful. We can't just give our address out to anybody.

She's a violin teacher, Dad. Hey, hey, hey, slow down, okay? Let me answer the

door.

Best friend. Grant.

And I'm Katie.

Come on in.

Well, I grabbed your number. I didn't realize.

I've been teaching students in town the past few months. Sheila let me put up my

contact number. You've only been teaching for a few months?

Well, I live in New York City. I am a professional violinist. So I've been

picking up students here to cover expenses. Okay, I'm sorry. So you're

for the holidays?

You study music at Bluffside, right? How did you know that?

Johanna Hendricks was my mother.

No way.

Way. You can call me Beth.

Beth.

Well,

in that case, welcome to our ranch.

This is your music room.

Yep. It was my mom's favorite room in the whole house.

No, the acoustics aren't the best because of the windows, but I figure

better to practice with a view than, you know, a soundproof studio.

I hope this will be okay. If you're used to a six by nine practice room where

the view is a brick wall and you're lucky if you can move your bow or hear

yourself over the tuba next door, this is, yeah, this is fine.

You live next door to a tubist?

No, that's not what I said. That must be very annoying.

Yes, it is. His name is Greg and he's beginner intermediate at best.

Huh. Well, your mother was a great teacher. Yeah, and my dad hates music

teachers. Katie, why don't you go clean up the dishes?

They're clear.

Okay, then go do your homework. But I have a violin lesson. Give us a moment

alone.

He'll like you like Miss Hendricks. She was the best.

So, you hate music teachers. I don't hate.

Music teachers. It's just that I don't believe that practicing scales over and

over again is a substitute for musical talent.

That is true, but practice can make that talent shine through later. And you are

looking for someone to teach her, yes?

Yes. Yes, I am, because that is what she wants.

Here.

And you should know that Katie wired this whole thing up. I sent the first

but I guess that Katie sent the follow -up text.

All right, so you weren't the one who... That what?

I actually tried to turn down the job because, like I said, I'm leaving after

the holidays, but you or Katie offered me double my rate to take the job, which

is not necessary.

Okay, then. Well, double is fine.

She is unbelievable.

And persistent, which makes for a really great student and musician.

Okay, well, if you teach Katie, there are a few rules.

There are no photographs.

There's no recording. There's nothing on social media.

Is there a fourth?

No.

I would never do any of those things.

Well, you say that now, but someone comes sneaking around, asking for a

offering you triple your salary.

It's just important that Katie has a normal life here, especially after her.

Well, I would never do anything to jeopardize a young girl, especially one

lost her mom. I just want you to know that.

Okay.

Katie!

You ready for your lesson with Miss Hendricks?

Yes, finally.

Okay, well, I'm changing the password on my cell phone.

Cool story, Dad.

Okay.

Let's get started.

You're working for Sean Grant?

Tell me, was he just as nice and private? I literally can't say, Sheila.

wants to protect his daughter.

Well, that's sweet.

I never thought I'd say it about someone like him, but... Raising, you know, a

young daughter after losing your wife and being someone that everybody wants a

piece of, it must just be... Hmm.

Mm -hmm.

What?

Beth, am I sensing a connection?

Stop. I'm taking on one last student whose father is paying me very well to

really help when I get back to expensive New York. Okay, that's it. Can you say

something? It's not that I wouldn't keep going. This is getting interesting.

Thanks, Hendrix.

Linda! I'll be right back.

Hi. Oh, hi.

Oh, I haven't seen you since Youth Orchestra.

Yeah, I must have been 16 or so. And they whisked you off to New York.

How's it been?

Oh, must be a different rhythm to Charleston.

Yeah, not so much a rhythm as a slog, but... Why, was the fellowship program

good? No, no, the program was great.

Rigorous training, bimonthly showcases, and just really, really good players.

Since then, it's been auditions for orchestras and teaching, playing

hotel events.

Wait, you wouldn't happen to be free this Saturday night, would you?

Why? You having a last -minute wedding, are you? Actually, I'm in a quartet. I

know it's crazy, but we have a Christmas concert, and our first violin is

pregnant, and her doctors put her on bed rest.

We haven't been able to find a sub.

How's your here -we -come -a -wassling?

It'll be ready by Saturday.

Fantastic.

Listen, put your number in, and I will text you the details and chart.

Thank you, Linda. This is going to be great.

See you soon. Yes, good to see you.

What just happened?

I got another job.

What?

Want to take a break?

I should probably keep practicing.

I just want to show you something.

Just take a minute.

Working on something new?

Yeah, just dusting it off.

Okay. Well, got to start somewhere.

Wasn't anything.

Wasn't anything yet.

Katie keeps asking about her Hanukkah present.

I'm teaching her how to make luck.

You going to keep writing?

No, I'll be in in a minute.

All right.

I'll get your apron ready.

It's the angel tree topper moment I made.

Let's get it on the tree.

Your mother saved every single one that she was given.

So many of them, it's almost too hard to put them all on the tree.

Does it feel like Christmas yet, Dad?

I think we have one more tree to visit.

Get a good handful.

All right, in the cloth.

That's good.

Then you squeeze all the water out.

Squeeze. There's more than you think.

Yeah.

My bubby taught me this recipe when I was your age.

That's good, that's good. Put the potatoes in the bowl.

Yeah. We've got to let the starch settle.

And then we'll pop one of these in. Can I do the frying?

I should probably check my insurance policy first, right? Come on. We're in

Virginia. You've got to learn how to fry at some point.

Careful. All right.

Here you go.

Okay. Careful, careful, careful.

Oh.

Bullseye.

It's going to be great seeing you perform again.

It's been too long.

I'm sorry for not coming home more often. Being here is grounding.

You came back over the years. I know, but never for this long and just...

I'm sorry that it took this trip for me to realize how one track my life is.

I do love violin. I mean, this is what I'm made for. It's just... Sometimes I

wonder if it's enough.

The Angel Tree!

What do you say? One for you, one for me, and one for Mom?

Yeah.

And next up, hot cider.

Oh, yes, please.

Oh, man, I love Hanukkah. I'm going to fry everything from now on.

What's not to love about it? Lights, miracles, delicious food, giving to

charity. And presents.

The kid is a broken record.

Okay, go on. I'll clean up.

Let's go.

Don't you usually have a tree there?

My dad gets later every year.

Have these for me?

Do I get drums, too? I got you five of them.

Three cymbals, one for each night of Hanukkah. Dad's going to be so mad. Oh,

he ever.

Let's open them all tonight.

So I heard you were talking to him about singing.

Yeah. Yeah, I'm working on them. I promise you.

Can you work on getting me a tree, too?

And maybe my mom's little decorations.

Sometimes I don't even know where we brought them here from Nashville.

Hey, so where's my present? Your present?

I got you a kazoo. Oh.

A kazoo. You shouldn't have. Well, I came through with the kit.

How's it going with the fundraiser?

I made a list of instruments and I sent it off to Sheila last night. I heard.

She said she spoke to the distributor and they're all set.

No.

The decorations.

I completely forgot.

I told Pat I was going to swing by and grab the garlands and the holly and...

Well, I can do it.

Are you sure? I don't want to put you out. No, it's no problem.

Thank you, Beth. Yeah.

Hey, Mom.

Well, technically, you're on point.

But I need you to feel the song. Just dig a little deeper.

And please, pay attention to the cutoff.

I thought you sounded great.

Pay no attention to that man. He knows nothing about music.

I love you, Sean.

I love you, Sean.

Maybe I'm just out of ideas.

No.

That's a choice you made.

Truth?

I wouldn't be sitting here for anything less.

Okay, Hirsch says it's like... It's like I've run away, but no.

No, this place is good for Katie, being close to you.

I thought maybe because this is Allison's hometown, I might... Find

Sean.

Honey, how can you say that?

You have been holed up out there in that ranch of yours for almost three years

now. Like some cursed prince.

You don't go anywhere. You don't talk to anybody. You don't do anything.

No wonder you're feeling uninspired.

Allison wasn't your...

Inspiration because you found her?

You had to love her.

You can't just be here.

You have to live here.

Well, what if what I write now isn't any good?

What if she'd hate it? What if you're using Allison as some sort of an excuse

not to do the thing that you were born to do?

What would she think about that?

She couldn't stand for it. You got that right.

And it's okay to miss her.

It's okay to be angry that she was taken away too soon.

You want my advice?

Live your life.

Get out there, explore, discover something.

Or else...

What's the point of coming here?

All right.

Everything is in the storage unit.

What are you going to hang them on?

Well, I'm about to get a tree if you want to join.

No, I'm on my way down to the rec center.

They post a lot of volunteer jobs this time of the year. You're serious about

more work?

Yeah. Gives me purpose.

Gotta keep it moving.

Thank you.

You're welcome.

Have a good time.

Oh, fancy seeing you here.

That is a lot of garland. Oh, it's for the recital.

I may have gone a little overboard.

I'll take that for you. Thank you.

What about you?

I'm here to get a tree. It's supposed to be a surprise for Katie.

Oh.

Do you mind giving me a hand?

Yeah, of course.

Must have been a big change for you two, moving from Nashville.

Yeah. I mean, I grew up in Nashville. Met Allison there.

Thought I'd spend my whole life there.

The ranch was actually Allison's idea.

She thought it'd be good for us to have a place to retreat.

I also think it was a way for Katie to be close to her mom.

Yeah.

Katie's grandmother is Ruthie. She runs the Bethel Grace Choir. Ruthie Sampson.

Yeah. Yeah, it's actually how I met your mother and why I put Katie in the

Bluffhead School.

Have you ever met her?

No, but Ruthie and my mom started a youth program about ten years ago when I

in New York. Huh. My mom would send me links to Ruthie's choir. They were

amazing.

So you like gospel music?

Of course I do. It's just country music that you're weird about.

I grew up playing classical violin.

Okay, which means that you are a fiddler.

No. Fiddling, not what I did. You haven't heard any of the greats?

Roy Acuff, Johnny Gimble, Texas Shorty. Okay, those aren't real names.

You know what? Don't tell me you have Johnny Roy Texas on your phone.

Mm -hmm.

Here.

I'll, uh, I'll take you to play this.

Sure.

Maybe you would like to hear some of my music.

You and Katie?

Your music?

Yeah, I have a Christmas concert tomorrow night at the Charleston Atrium

string quartet.

Katie could hear how the professionals do it, and you could see what classical

music is all about. If you want.

You know, Katie and I, we...

We don't get out. Yeah, I shouldn't have. But you know what? That's all the

reason we should have.

I'd love to.

And I know Katie would, too.

Okay, great.

Butterflies.

We're like a flock of birds.

Okay, pal.

This is like professional.

Sean.

And this must be the talented Katie.

I'm Tim.

That's that.

Tim.

We were sorry to hear about Joanna.

She's one of a kind.

And I know how hard it can be this time of year. If there's anything we can do

for you.

Very kind. Thank you.

Beth, are you all right? Sorry.

I haven't played like that in long time, years, maybe.

You played beautifully.

Thank you.

Thank you. It felt effortless.

Have you ever considered... What?

Look, the second chair of the first violins is coming available in the

orchestra.

Auditions come around once a decade.

I could put your name in. I can reserve you a spot if you want.

Oh, hey.

Aw, thanks.

This is what we do.

Good to hear it with professional players, huh?

It is.

Wasn't too stuffy for you?

You were fantastic.

A natural with that group.

And I must admit, it is good to hear that kind of music in West Virginia.

Oh.

Here's our star.

You all set? Yes.

I can't wait for our next lesson, Beth.

Bye. Bye.

Bye -bye.

You were amazing. I'm so proud of you.

Thanks for being here.

Feeling. Your face. Try not to tilt your head.

Violin parallel to the ground. And again.

I'm sorry. All the things you're saying is getting jumbled in my head.

That's okay.

Take a breath. You'll get there.

Your mommy's makeup closed her eyes when you got stuck.

I like that.

Let's try that.

That was outstanding.

You deserve a break.

Why'd you pick the violin?

Well, the fiddle made me want to dance, and my mom said if I'm going to learn an

instrument, I need to master techniques. No one could question me later.

Wise words.

Do you love it?

I put it down for a while, but I picked it back up from my mom, and now I really

love it.

Well, you're already so good.

Thanks.

The other day when I saw you playing, it made me really happy because...

When I see the videos of all the famous violinists, none of them look like me.

And then I thought I chose the wrong instrument.

I used to feel the same way.

But then I realized that it's okay to choose your own path.

So if violin or drums or any other instrument ignites something in you,

promised me you'd follow it.

I promise.

My dad and I don't talk about stuff like this. Or about my mom.

But my grandma helps me remember her.

Like all the fun stuff we used to do at Christmas, my mom made the best

Christmases. What would she do?

She used to make things like ornaments, decorations, cookies.

My dad forgets the fun stuff. Like, he surprised me with a tree, but we haven't

decorated it yet.

How about if after our next lesson, we ditch these candy canes and we make you

an angel tree topper instead?

You can make one that looks like your mom.

That'd be fun.

Okay, good.

Does your dad know how lucky he is to have you?

I think he does.

Let's get back at it.

Hello?

Hey, Dad.

Are those our ornaments?

Uh -huh. And I thought we could order pizza while we decorate the tree. How

that sound?

Sounds good. Can Beth help, too?

Yeah, we could use an extra set of hands.

If she's gay?

All he listens to is country. Turns out, you're a snob, too.

Ooh, burn, Dad.

I love the string quartet. It's just that classical music, it's, well, it's

stuffy. Classical composers were the original rebels and rule breakers of

time. Okay, but there's so many rules.

Well, you follow rules in your music, right? Same instruments for every song.

Guitar, bass, drums, fiddle. Same theme, same length for radio.

Okay, okay, but when I play, I play from my heart. I play because it moves me.

You know, I'm not following rules.

The music, it can inspire me. It can be anything.

Yeah, I'm sure Beethoven would agree with that.

I was thinking about getting some classical music for Katie for her

gift. Yeah, I can recommend some downloads.

You know, I was actually thinking albums.

Something vintage, vinyl.

You know, maybe you could meet me at the Major Key Music shop.

And Katie's getting serious about this classical music thing. I want to know

what I'm talking about.

Sure.

Sounds fun.

Okay.

Ruthie, Ruthie, this is Katie's violin teacher.

Ruthie, hi.

Beth, John's daughter.

Yeah.

I was so sorry about your mother's passing.

Her service was beautiful.

Well, it was very nice to finally meet you.

Thank you for dinner, and I'll see you tomorrow?

Yeah. Merry Christmas, Ruthie.

Good luck with the choir.

Thank you.

Merry Christmas to you.

Come by any time.

See you tomorrow.

Sounds like more than a violin teacher to me.

Oh, I love the Nutcracker.

Maybe I should do a piece from this.

This is my favorite. This was the very first concert that my mom took me to.

The Nutcracker. That was the first concert you ever went to? Yeah.

My parents were season ticket holders to the orchestra.

My dream was to play with them. That's why I joined the youth orchestra.

I was one of those audition kids, always trying to get the scholarship.

I was actually given a fellowship to New York's Ruston, you know, the feeder

school for New York. Yeah, yeah, I know what that is. It's a big deal. Oh, yeah,

well, they usually pick a couple of kids to join as apprentices in the

orchestra. I was not chosen, but...

I never gave up.

Did you want to stay in New York?

Well, the chances of getting a job are higher if you're there, because all the

regional orchestras, they audition in New York.

Yeah, sure, but that's not what I asked.

The chamber orchestra is like the Supreme Court. Someone has to die for a

to open up.

Well, except now that.

What if you get it?

I don't know.

It's only these past few months I've been able to see Charleston through new

eyes.

That's a good title.

Through new eyes.

Well, it's yours if you're writing.

Are you writing?

Well, I'm trying to.

It might be hard for you to see, but you influence a lot of people.

You're really lucky.

Wish I could do that.

Well, you do do that.

With Katie, I mean, you have an influence on her. After she saw you

the quartet, she couldn't stop talking about you.

I think seeing you made something click, made it seem possible for her.

Yeah, yeah, she told me that, but I didn't think of it as influence so much

understanding.

Well, maybe those are the same things.

Success!

Three other stores are confirmed for a donation to the silent auction.

We've got office supplies, dress shop, and hardware store.

Amazing. For the recital.

Yes. Everyone's getting into the Christmas spirit.

How do I like it?

All right, well, maybe we should find Katie's gift. We have procrastinated

enough. Yeah.

So, what do you think you're going to get?

Hey, Dad, I'm back.

Do you want to see what I got for our Angel Tree recipients?

Sure.

What's wrong?

I was working the numbers, and we're definitely going to need more than just

school neighborhood to turn out if we're going to buy the instruments that Haley

gave us on that list.

You think we overpromised?

Anything we raise is going to be a win.

Don't worry, you'll get used to it.

This will be an annual event, after all.

Yeah. Whose idea was that again?

That was yours.

You're right.

We got this.

Got this.

So the reindeer, huh? Yeah.

Cute, huh?

Ludwig.

Oh.

Ludwig. I know this.

Ludwig Van something. It's Van.

Ludwig Van Dam.

Hey,

speaking of classical music, I like Beth.

I love her.

She's so smart and nice.

You love her?

Yeah. Well, we were talking about Mom, and she's going to bring over some

later. It's going to be so cool. You were talking about Mom?

Yeah.

It's a big deal.

Beth and I have a lot in common.

Like, she lost her mom, too, and Christmas makes us both a little sad.

Christmas makes you sad?

A little.

Katie, you know you can talk to me about these things.

You're not mad, are you?

Katie can't.

Just don't be so quick to let people in, okay?

Okay.

Hello.

Katie told me to meet you guys down here. Whoa.

This place is cool.

So big and open.

Hi. Hi, Beth. Why don't you go wash up?

Okay.

I was thinking on our break, Katie and I would make angel tree toppers as a

treat. I don't think that's such a good idea.

I think you and I need to have a talk.

Okay.

I don't understand why you're so upset. Is it something I did?

Talking about Allison and Katie's lesson.

Okay, well, students and teachers often bond over things besides notes and

oppositions. That is not my experience.

Maybe not your teachers, but... Look, my career makes it hard for me to give my

child a normal life.

Especially now on my own.

When you started, I asked you, I told you to respect our privacy.

Yeah, well, it's an innocent conversation.

I haven't said anything about you or Katie to anyone.

She's just an 11 -year -old who misses her mom, and she found someone who

understands.

I understand.

Maybe she has a hard time talking to you about it.

Sean, I think you're a really incredible father, and you know what's right for

your daughter.

So I don't want to be anywhere that I'm not welcome.

I think I should take a step back from the lesson.

Okay.

And, um, just for the record, I thought we were getting something.

Beth. Would you tell Katie I'm sorry?

I really enjoy playing with her.

I know, but just not today.

When?

We'll pick it up in a bit.

Beth knows stuff. Beth plays with me. Beth talks to me.

Katie, I... Okay.

Sometimes I feel like I'm closer to Mom than I am to you.

Which makes me sad because you're the one who's here.

Sometimes because your mom's not here, I get scared of saying or doing the wrong

thing.

And your grandma thinks that I could do a better job about letting you know how

I feel.

Okay, you're the one who told me no one's perfect.

So when you make a mistake, you can try again.

I'll tell you

So what's your favorite class?

Music, definitely.

Of course, music.

Hey,

Miss Lim, this is the guitar my dad signed to donate to the auction.

Wow, thank you. This is great.

Thank you, Katie.

Bye -bye. Bye, Grandma.

Ruthie, you are a lifesaver. I'm so happy to have you on board volunteering.

Oh, it's my pleasure.

I've been looking for something new to sink my teeth into.

You know, help me get my groove back.

So how have things been for you lately?

Oh, I mean, with the recital and donations and teaching, I just hope they

replacement for Joanna soon.

Okay. So what would you like me to do? I need 30 copies of today's sheet music.

Oh, here she is.

Ready?

I couldn't really get a read on them and felt a little nervous and in my head.

So I'll talk to you when I come.

I was going to call you tonight, but we've decided to hold a second audition

you and another player.

So when I come back?

Bring along the player who was at the quartet.

You know, the one who played with heart, with joy.

Thank you, Linda.

Katie. Hey.

Can we put her on the tree?

Did you make this?

Yeah.

How's that look?

Pretty good.

Okay.

Wow.

Beautiful. Yeah.

Welcome to the Christmas Fair.

I am a music teacher at Bluffside Elementary, and we are having our big

recital on the 22nd.

We're going to start an instrument fund in honor of Miss Joanna Hendrick, the

music teacher and champion who we all miss this year.

And to give you a little preview of the recital, I'll now have my fifth graders

join me on stage.

I'm real nervous about the recital.

We can always just stay home and have our own little concert, just the two of

us.

You know something?

I used to have terrible stage fright.

You're making that up. No, it's true.

But you did all those shows and all that touring.

Yeah, and I was terrified every time.

Seriously? Mm -hmm.

Then how'd you do it?

Well, when your mom and I first started dating.

I invited her backstage before one of my shows. I gave her the whole VIP

treatment. But right before I went on, I admitted to her that I was nervous.

And she said something that I think of before every concert. You know what that

was? What?

Stop it.

You loved it.

And when you remember that, your fears fade. Because when you love something,

there's nothing to be scared about.

And when in doubt, you can look out in the audience and know that I will always

be there cheering you on.

Okay. Okay.

Deal. Deal.

Beth!

Hi!

Midland wants me to play next to last in the recital, so right before you. Can

you come over tomorrow so I can practice?

We'd love to have you back.

Pick up where you left off.

Is that what everyone wants?

Listen, I want to apologize for the other day. I'm sorry.

Your privacy, I crossed the line. No, you didn't. I overreacted.

Katie, excited about the big show?

Um, mostly nervous, but I'm going to try and play with joy, like Miss Hendricks

always said.

Can I introduce you to my friend? She plays the drums in the recital.

Yes, please.

Can I be one of those?

Yeah.

Does it ever get easier?

Yes.

And no.

But mostly yes.

Let me feel your love

Sean, hi.

Before you say anything else, I owe you a better apology.

We spoke.

It's water under the bridge.

I want you to know that I do trust you.

See, I've been working on this song, and when I finished it, the first person I

wanted to share it with was all of you.

Let me in?

Yeah.

Ain't it funny how string lights and snow on the ground can

open your heart to a feeling?

Surrounded by loved ones, some old and some new, I see a star on

the tree touch the ceiling.

I know Christmas ain't the same without you, but that old... let

me feel your love shining down and

every song the carolers are singing has your heart in the sound let the

christmas bells ring through the town knowing you're still around

As a holiday memory, I met everyone next to you.

And though this Christmas you're gone, I can still feel you with me.

We'll make those old memories brand new.

Now I know Christmas ain't the same without you, but that old mistletoe

lets me feel you.

Wow. That's really good.

Thank you.

Wow, I love it.

It's just the bridge isn't quite as strong as the rest of the song yet.

I think the turnaround isn't doing what you want it to musically.

You're offering me criticism?

No. No, no, no, no, Sean. I love it.

I love it. I just think that the bridge could be better.

I think I needed that.

The truth is, Allison was my...

My harshest critic.

My mother was so blunt.

I just left her for that.

Oh, I didn't even ask you.

How'd your audition go?

It was good. They didn't exactly give it to me in the room, so there's a second

audition.

I have a bit of time before I pick up Katie. Can I...

Take you somewhere?

Sure. Yeah.

You

know,

my folks, they never understood music. Or me, for that matter.

Ruthie practically adopted me.

You know, she's like the teacher. Teacher you never had?

Oh,

wonderful.

All right.

Take a break. Get ready for the next song.

Come on. Well, it's about time you brought her by.

Where's Katie?

Well, actually, I got to pick up Katie from a play date.

Can I give you a ride home?

No, no, it's okay. I'll walk. I want to watch some more and visit with Ruthie.

You sure? Yeah. Okay.

Bye. Bye -bye.

You really have a way with the kids. Wow.

I think it's all those years as a school administrator paying off.

Which is why I'm actually thinking about your mom's old job.

You are?

Mm -hmm.

Ruthie, that's amazing.

The kids are really lucky to have you. And I could say the same thing about

Sean.

Professional.

Love may be blind, but I'm not.

We're happy to have you back.

So, the Russian dance again?

Actually, I'll be playing Felix Mendelssohn's Hark the Herald Angels

whenever you're ready.

You really like it?

Because, Hershey, I think I got more brewing.

Yeah, I might be able to lick this album.

Yeah, just get back in the studio with the crew.

Thank you.

Beth, wait.

We both thought your performance

was heartfelt and moving.

And, well, we'd like to offer you the position.

If you want it.

Thank you. I just, um, I didn't realize how happy that would make me.

Well, we need to start right away, because you'll be featured in our

concert, December 22nd.

That's the same night as the Bluffside recital.

I'm so sorry, but we need you.

It's the most important concert of the year.

Proceeds fund the entire season.

Of course.

was supposed to be there for the kids and Katie, you and mom.

You dropped your whole life to come back.

You spent months at your mother's side.

Some kids would come for the ceremony and miss all the hard parts.

You did the hard part.

You can miss the recital.

It's just one more person I have to tell.

Hi. Hi.

Thank you.

Everything okay?

Yeah. I got some news to tell you.

Okay.

Well, Uncle Hirsch wants me to record some of my new ideas.

Cool.

The thing is, he wants me to record them in Nashville.

Wait, like, leave West Virginia?

For how long?

Well, you know, it takes some time to record an album, but we go back all the

time to see Grandma.

I don't even have friends in Nashville.

I know, I know you have friends here, and it's just...

You know, when the music... But I guess it's

probably going to be hard to get time in the studio before Christmas anyway,

so...

Bell's on.

So you're not coming to my recital?

I just can't. I'm going to take this job.

I'm so sorry.

It's okay. I'm happy for you.

You can say it.

I'm just nervous playing without you there, especially since it's my last one

Bluffside. What are you talking about?

Ted and I are moving to Nashville because of his music.

Your father knows what's best for you both.

So we're just going to make it the best recital ever.

Ready?

Bow up.

Back straight and breathe.

Your last session and your last student, huh?

I guess that's true. I hadn't thought of it like that.

Katie said you're moving back to Nashville.

She told you?

Yeah.

Yeah, it's to record. I don't have a studio here.

It's probably time for me to...

Come out of hibernation.

And we'll be back, but... Nashville will be home?

Yeah.

Let me... Think.

Listen, I... I want to thank you for everything you brought Katie.

It was more than I...

Thought she needed.

Music is the great connector.

And your honesty.

That used to be something that I looked for in my music. I forgot... I forgot

how important it is in parenting, too.

You're a good teacher.

Not just for Katie.

Or, uh... Me, too.

What you said about...

technique getting in the way of the joy of playing.

You were right.

That's the reason I got the job.

So, thank you.

I got a lot, too.

Good

luck

with the orchestra.

Good luck in Nashville.

Remember, you've got one more fan here in Charleston.

Are these, um, digits for display?

No.

We had a surprise angel donor come to my shop today.

Paid in full.

Wait, what?

Let's just say I, too, have been asked to keep things under wraps and literally

can't say who the angel donor is.

Sheila.

Was it Sean?

It's totally Sean.

It was his way of saying thank you to the school, your mom, you.

He told me he's going back to Nashville.

Yeah. You go get in your fancy dress and you go wallop that crowd.

Next time this whole crew's coming to see you at Concert Hall, you're here to

stay. I love you.

What's this?

My first concert for the Youth Orchestra. I was...

So my mom got me this music box as an early Christmas gift just to remind me

there's angels everywhere that have my back.

That's lovely.

Linda, would it be terrible if I missed the reception?

Why? Do you not want to be introduced as a new member of the ensemble?

No, I do.

I do, but if I take off right after the concert, I might be able to make it to

my mom's recital before it ends.

How about the two of us sneak out right after our bows?

Merry Christmas.

I hope you're all having a great night.

We are so excited to announce the new head of the Bluffside Music Department,

Miss Ruthie Sampson.

Oh, thank you, thank you. Look at you.

You look as good as I feel.

And thank you very much for that warm welcome.

Thank you also for continuing to support our wonderful students.

I cannot tell you how proud and happy I am to be taking over this wonderful

music program founded by my friend, Johanna Hendricks.

Johanna was a...

special person, and there's a lot that I could say about her, but no one could

say it better than her husband.

So please, welcome Tim.

I thought a lot about what I wanted to say about Joanna.

And, of course, without saying, she was much better at public speaking.

What Joanna wanted most was...

For everyone to find the music in their lives.

She challenged every student to find their voice, their music.

She worked every day to make sure that students could chase after their dreams

right here in Charleston and beyond.

For her, it was always about the people.

Not you.

Joanna knew that she was not only creating musicians, she was creating a

community.

That was her gift to us.

Now, how about some of that music, shall we?

Let's go.

And to close our recital tonight, violinist Katie Grant.

Yeah.

Good tidings to you, to you and your friends. We wish you a Merry Christmas

and a Happy New Year.

We wish you a Merry Christmas. We wish you a Merry Christmas. We wish you a

Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.

Tonight was a blast.

That was a special moment. It really was.

Here you go. Thank you.

With all the donations we raised tonight, and because of our angel donor,

raised enough for this year's instruments and two more years.

Yes.

I know that you did.

I have no idea what you're talking about.

Grandma, that's the angel tree chopper roommate. It looks like Mom.

Oh, it's beautiful.

It really did come out beautifully.

Well, thank you for bringing the supplies over. Hey, Sean, when are you

get Katie on the drums? Oh, I start lessons next week. That long?

Come on.

Get Beth on the fiddle. You guys got yourselves an all -star band, huh?

Refill. I think my fiddling technique is going to need a little more work.

Now it feels like Christmas.

Yes, Christmas.

To music. To music teachers.

And to agents.

How many cookies is that?

Number three. Number three.

Okay, well, then there's probably room for one more.

Katie Cat.

You are fantastic tonight.

Thanks.

This music thing is something...

You want to stick with?

I think so.

I'm so proud of you.

Oh, sorry.

No, I was just getting out more cookies.

Whoa, whoa, whoa, whoa.

Thanks.

Bet you just can't have one.

I think you made a friend for life.

She's an amazing girl.

She feels the same way about you.

In fact, Katie and I were wondering if you and your dad would like to join us

for Christmas dinner.

Really?

Yeah, that sounds lovely.

Sort of a farewell dinner.

Well, it turns out we're not going to Nashville.

What?

What about recording? I decided to turn the barn into a music studio.

That's why Hirsch is here. We're going to figure out the plans.

Katie and I love it here.

And, well, we'd miss too much.

You know, I didn't think that this Christmas would have any joy in it.

And you changed that for me.

You, Ruthie, and Katie.

Thank you.

You changed ours right back.

So, Christmas dinner, hmm? Yeah, and I was wondering, in

the new year, if maybe you and I could go hear some live music one

night? Are you asking me on a date?

Am I really that rusty?

Maybe if you practiced, you wouldn't be.

Beth Hendricks, would you go on a date with me?

Music to my ears.

Next year, our house and Christmas dinner with all our friends. You

Promise.

Next Saturday.

Sometimes you have to let go in order to move forward. Okay, pops.

You ready to sell the house? Tori DeVito.

Dylan Bruce.

I just hired Joe to do the remodel on my house.

Does this mean we're becoming friends?

And Patrick Duffy. If you're given a second chance at love, you better grab

The Christmas Promise.

Part of Miracles of Christmas. All new next Saturday at 10. Only on Hallmark

Movies and Mysteries.