Original subtitles

Jingle bells, jingle bells, jingle all the way.

Oh, what fun it is to ride in one horse open sleigh.

Jingle bells, jingle bells, jingle all the way.

Oh, what fun it is to ride in one horse open sleigh.

Oh,

it sounds pretty pricey for a local sporting goods chain. Local for now, but

with huge upside.

Plus, you need to get that money off your books by the end of the year.

I work pretty hard to get that money off my books.

Yeah, but it's a great way to build your brand. Think of it that way.

And think fast.

I've only got two weeks to close this deal. All right.

Noelle.

Merry Christmas. Merry Christmas to you, too.

Angela. Noelle, your name literally means Christmas.

Please, come and join the party.

That with the noises.

This Christmas craziness, it's not really my thing.

What is this?

You are cordially invited to something called the Christmas Gala. It's in

Michigan. Well, you should go.

I'm playing pin the hat on the elf.

I think I'm the elf.

How'd it go with Henderson?

Wait a second, that with Henderson you were talking to?

Rex, isn't that your client?

Well, yes.

But Noel.

She had a great lead on a buying opportunity. Okay, you know what? That's

You are taking a break.

Where did you say this thing was?

It's in Michigan. In my hometown, a couple hours north of Detroit. I am

this to my assistant, and he is booking your plane ticket. No, no, no, no. The

gal is just another over -the -top Christmas extravaganza my mother

good. Plus, Henderson, he's got... Yeah, you know what? Henderson will be in

great hands with Rex.

Because it's his client, right?

Now it is time for you to come and party.

Let's go.

Note to Mason, I need you to check on some flights ASAP.

Was your mom really that Christmas crazy? She was the original Christmas

To me, it was just one long chore.

I made such a huge production for one day.

Took the words right out of my mouth.

Noelle, did you even look at this?

They're giving a scholarship in memory of Janet Carson. That's your mom, right?

Yeah.

Something she said when I was a kid.

Noelle, enjoy Christmas. Take some time off.

I guess I do have a couple of things I should take care of. I haven't been

since she died, so... Take as long as you need.

Your job can wait.

And as for you, this is a warning.

Noelle is now strictly off limits. No calls, no texts, no emails.

You got it?

I saw that.

And if Noelle gives in and works, I want you to know that I will be banishing

her to the Timbuktu satellite offices.

We don't have satellite offices.

Well, I have expansion plans, so try me.

Fine.

I'll go to Michigan.

Right.

Now you two, enjoy the party.

I'll send sourdough, cable cars, fog.

Do they even have sushi there?

No wonder people leave their hearts and stuff in Fusco. I'll keep myself charged

at all times.

Okay?

I'm reachable.

Hello?

Oh. Oh, sorry.

I thought the house was empty. What are you doing in there?

Sleeping. Or at least I was trying to. I think the better question is, what are

you doing out here on my roof?

Oh, wait, Noelle?

Janet's daughter?

Yeah. Welcome home.

I'll meet you up front.

Oh, no, no, no. Just wait.

We noticed upstairs lights on last night. We were worried, so we came over

check on things.

What a nice surprise. Welcome home, sweetie.

Thank you, Mike. Thanks, Missy.

It's really nice to see you, too. Hey, looks like I'm missing a party.

David, I want you to meet Noelle.

She's a hot shot deal maker from San Francisco.

I wouldn't say hot shot.

Sorry about the early wake -up call. Name Beckman. Hi. I got an idea.

Why don't you all go into the kitchen, I'll run next door, get some cocoa, and

then we'll get caught up. That's a terrific idea. That sounds like a lot of

but I had a really late night.

Nice to see you.

Mmm.

Misty. This hot chocolate is as wonderful as ever. One marshmallow.

No, thanks.

No, thanks.

Not really a marshmallow girl.

Who doesn't like marshmallows?

You know, I'm still a little fuzzy about what you were doing on my roof this

morning.

Hanging lights, of course.

For Christmas?

I get that part, but...

I don't understand why you're decorating a house that's been empty for a year

and a half.

Well, I made your mama promise that I'd continue the tradition.

Then you wouldn't want to disappoint the carolers. No.

Carolers?

They still do that?

Of course.

It's one of the biggest nights of the season.

One by one, every house on the street comes alive when the carolers arrive.

I guess it's our way of... Welcoming Christmas.

Yeah. Like your mother used to say.

I gotta say, it's pretty magical.

And this place looks especially beautiful thanks to Dave. Okay. Are you

flattering me?

Yeah. I'm sure it's as beautiful as ever, but I'm afraid there's not going

decorations this year.

What? What?

And why is that?

Well, I really wanted to talk to you both privately, but I

came back to pack and put the place up for sale.

What?

I'm meeting with the listing agent later today.

You came home to pack up a house at Christmas?

I know. Crazy timing, right?

The movers are coming on the 21st.

But you at least have to stay for the Christmas gala.

It would mean so much to your mother.

I'm already planning on it.

But I will need to get up pretty early the next morning. So if it's okay, no

decorations this year.

Means less packing for me.

Well, understood.

I knew this day was coming.

I'm just sorry that today's the day.

Thanks for the hot chocolate. Now, if you'll excuse me, I got to get back on

that roof.

Wait, what?

Hold on a second.

That'll be agreed. No decorations.

Trust me, that's a bad idea.

Oh, and why is that?

Because three nights from now, every house on this block is going to light up

like a rocket except yours.

Is that what you really want?

It's just one house. I hardly think anybody will even notice.

We'll notice.

Okay, let me put it this way. Say you've planned a Paris vacation.

Sounds really good right now. You've been looking forward to it all year

And when you finally get there, you run straight out to see the Mona Lisa and

that famous smile of hers, only she's missing a tooth.

I wonder if that's something you notice.

I'm pretty sure you can't actually see her teeth.

But I get your point.

Tell you what. Enjoy the holidays. Then after the Christmas gala, I'll help you

pack. You'll be back in San Francisco by New Year's. I can't do it.

I have to be back for work.

I got a counter offer.

I take it you're pretty handy with tools.

There's some things in this house I could use fixing before I sell it.

You help me with those, I'll let you decorate.

Ah, that just sounds like more work for me. But there's more. No hammering

before eight.

Take it or leave it.

Oh, Mike was right. You really are a hot shot deal maker.

Deal.

That's great.

Nothing before eight.

I got you.

I hate to admit it, but your friend Dave might be right.

Packing a house in five days is going to be a challenge.

Well, what's your hurry? Take your time.

Rent it out for a while.

Oh, no. I'm not the landlord type.

Plus, my whole life is in San Francisco. I don't have the time to deal with

tenants or the long -distance upkeep of a house.

More chicken and dumplings.

Oh, no, please, please. I'm stuffed.

It was as delicious as I remember.

And you don't cook like this for yourself?

I haven't really cooked like that in about a year. Well, maybe a year or

Sounds like you keep pretty busy.

Mostly with work.

Or pretty much all work.

What about you guys?

What's exciting here?

Well, Mike got a new partner at the office.

Do you remember Cory Cox?

Little Cory?

Mm -hmm.

I used to babysit her.

But she's a lawyer now?

Yeah, and she's married, too. Six months.

Wow, I feel old now.

She's handling real estate cases.

I've got a real tough one on her hands right now.

Remember the old hunting lodge?

Sure, where the gala is, right?

Well, for now. But this might be the final year if she can't help her current

owners find a better offer than they have now.

Well, maybe I can give her a hand.

Huh? Yeah, I mean, it's what I do all day.

Help our clients untangle tricky issues and find them a better deal.

Really? Yeah.

So, you're good at untangling.

Well, I'd like to think so if I want to make partner.

Well, then I have just the job for you.

I should have known.

Ah, you untangle and I'll test the lights.

Ooh, got an end.

Okay. Right here.

Okay. Right here.

Do it.

I'm going to pick up all these extra lights, take them over to Dave's in the

morning, see if we can use them for the gala.

Well, that's an awful lot of lights for a little fundraiser.

Well, obviously, you haven't been to the gala in a long time.

It's not a little fundraiser anymore.

You've got hundreds of people dining and dancing, raising money for

scholarships. And it all started with your mom, right here in your own front

yard.

Yeah, for her, Christmas had to be bigger and better every year.

Yeah. I remember.

That first year, your mother made enough money to help a neighbor pay for their

college tuition.

Alan Chang.

Remember him? Poor thing.

Oh, she had him dressed up like Santa Claus and hand out candy canes to people

of the neighborhood. And a rented sleigh. One guest, who she roped in as

Claus. You.

Yeah, of course.

And I remember that gorgeous dress that she made you. Yeah, which I nearly

ruined when I fell out of the sleigh.

Yeah, I remember.

Left leg straight up.

Thank you so much. I had such a wonderful time. Drop by any time.

Night. See you later.

Let's get off the sofa.

We'll strike up the bed.

Noelle Carson?

Oh, the moving bin?

Oh, no.

Is everything okay?

No.

No, no, please don't hang up.

No!

All right.

Earth movers.

Movers and shakers.

Hmm.

You're up pretty early. I promise, but... Henderson got complicated?

Henderson got so complicated.

Let me guess. The sporting goods owners aren't interested in selling.

You're some sort of psychic.

Will Henderson actually raise his offer?

He already did. They won't budge.

Sounds like my movers.

What? Yeah. Their roads are frozen over, and now they can't come till after

Christmas. So, what you're saying is there's no good reason for... you to be

there instead of, say, here?

At least in something style.

Well, it is pretty cold.

There's a flight leaving in three hours. I just need two days max.

Okay.

920, you actually let me sleep in?

Yeah, well, thank the icy roads. I drove here at grandma's speed.

What's with the suitcase?

Uh, I'm leaving.

Yeah, um, the movers called and said they can't get to me till after

And then Rex needs help with this deal, so I figured I'd go home for a couple of

days and I'll come back and finish packing.

Ah, who's Rex?

My co -worker.

You're blushing.

Huh?

Uh, more like early frostbite.

Forgot how cold it gets here.

Yeah. Um, do you know how long it takes to get a taxi in the town?

In these icy conditions? I wouldn't hold my breath.

But my flight's in an hour.

I guess you're stuck.

Unless you know someone with an all -wheel drive, VA pickup with all

tires.

Somebody call for a taxi?

Really?

Yes. You bet.

Oh, thank you. You are awesome.

Save the day.

Thank you. You're welcome.

Yeah, okay.

Sorry, I can't go any faster.

Of course.

Better safe than sorry.

Yep.

You know, I still can't believe you're doing this for me.

I owe you big time.

Yeah, not at all. It's just what neighbors do around here.

You okay?

Yeah.

I just don't think I'm going to make this flight.

Unless you take the first shortcut.

Looking like a true native.

Not quite, but enough to know a few back roads.

So how did you end up in a town like this?

My sister moved here after her divorce.

She had a young son.

I needed some help, so I came here to get it settled.

Next thing you know, three weeks turned into 12 years.

And now you're stuck here?

I don't know. I don't feel stuck.

My flight's canceled.

I guess we're both stuck here now.

At least for now, anyway.

You know, thanks for trying.

I really do appreciate it.

Does that mean I can start hammering at 7 again?

I don't appreciate it that much.

We better get you home.

Oh, can you get that?

Uh, the owner's here.

Uh, now is your chance.

Ah, and then I have to get right back to the lodge.

You know, I'm kind of far out of your way. Uh, I can go with you.

Sure. Of course.

That's what neighbors do around here.

This place is incredible.

Welcome to Christmas Gala Central.

You've been having here the last few years. In three days, you'll be able to

this place in space.

Mike said it was amazing, but I had no idea.

Yeah, we get going the day after Thanksgiving, and it's pretty much 24

up until showtime.

I wish my movies were that motivated.

Yeah, gala means a lot to this town.

Come on, I'll show you around.

How you doing?

Hello.

Hey. And everyone here's a volunteer?

Yep, every last one. Except for these guys.

They're pros.

We pay them in chocolate.

Well,

there he is, our fearless leader.

Noelle, this is my sister, Karen.

My God. And her absolutely indispensable son, Scotty, who holds a cold event

together. That pretty much means I get here early just to get the hot

Not bad.

Pretty good job.

Nice to finally meet you.

Dave said you were staying at your mom's.

She meant the world to all of us.

Thank you.

That's really nice to hear.

How long have they been here?

Half an hour.

I stalled them till you got here.

Okay. Wish me luck.

Good.

He shouldn't have that.

Nice to meet you.

Nice meeting you.

Sister, could you mind giving me a hand with this?

Oh, of course.

So, what's that all about?

The owners of the lodge.

They're thinking about selling to some condo developers. And if the town can't

talk them out of it, that's the end of the Christmas gala.

But there's got to be another place, right?

Ooh, not in this town. Believe me, we've looked.

There's just no place big enough to hold all these people.

Now, I'm curious.

I... Why Dave?

You know, why is it his job to save the gala?

I guess he feels like he's responsible, you know? He was pretty miserable when

he first moved here.

But working on the gala with all these people, I guess it gave him some kind of

a purpose.

And now he's in charge of it.

Oh, that's funny. He told me you were the one having a hard time when he moved

here. Well, I guess misery enjoyed the company back then. That happens.

Oh, yeah.

How did it go?

We'll see.

They haven't made any decisions yet, so... Looks like we have a new

Oh, me? No.

Nope, I've got plenty to do at the house.

Although, if you want to renegotiate, you know, drive to San Francisco.

How about I just drive you home for now?

That works.

Nice meeting you. Nice to meet you. See you around.

Looks pretty straightforward to me. It's just a standard listing contract.

Yes. I'll have Cora go over it. Did the agency tell you what to expect?

Only that the holidays is the worst time to sell a house.

It's going to take a Christmas miracle to get this house moved out by the end

the year.

That just means we have to hold on to you a little bit longer.

A little cream, a little nutmeg, and three sugars, just like your dad.

You sure are your father's daughter.

Couldn't ask for a better law partner.

Still miss him.

You know, the interesting thing about this practice, Joe had so many pro bono

cases he couldn't afford to keep the lights on, so he brought me in to do

contract law.

Hmm. I never knew that about him.

Well, pretty young when he died.

Sometimes I think that's the reason why my mom went overboard for Christmas.

You know, just to make up for him not being there.

You're partly right about that.

Hmm.

I just don't understand why she would rope so many people in.

Maybe we didn't feel roped in. Maybe we just wanted to feel a little bit more of

what your mom and dad did.

I don't understand.

Sweetie, look it.

Neither of your folks, including your mom, were Christmas crazy.

They were people crazy.

I think you can still sense a little bit of that around town and give it a

chance.

I will.

Yeah? I promise.

You know, there's one thing I know for sure about whoever gets my mom's house.

What's that?

Oh, they're going to be pretty lucky because they have some awesome

All right, go on. Get out of here.

Noelle? Corey?

Oh my gosh, no way!

I was just talking about you to Mike.

I'm so happy that you're at the firm now. I hardly even recognize you.

I'm so fancy, right?

That's just so beautiful. And you're so grown up.

Gosh, how did that even happen?

Last time I saw you, you were my babysitter. And now you're the same

whiz. Yeah, hardly.

But I do get paid just a little bit more than making you grilled cheese

sandwiches.

Are you here for the gala?

No, actually, I came to pack up my mom's house and sell it.

Oh, yeah.

Yeah, Mike's going to give you some paperwork to look over, though it looks

your plate's pretty full.

It's a mark of property.

The one's trying to buy the honey loss?

Anyways, I should let you go. You must be busy.

Yes, busy with packing, yep.

Well, if you want another hand after work, I'd be happy to help.

Really? Believe it or not, I actually love packing, just as long as it's

else's stuff.

It works for me.

I'll bring boxes.

Okay, great.

Noel Carson?

Ah, thank goodness.

I was worried sick when you didn't show up this afternoon.

Oh, my gosh, Rex. I'm so sorry. I forgot to call.

My flight got canceled and I'm stuck.

Wait, you're still in Michigan?

I'm afraid so.

What about Henderson?

I don't know. We'll figure it out over time.

I hope so.

Angela's breathing down my neck to get that money off his books by the end of

the year.

Well, he's got hundreds of clients. I'm sure one of them is ready to unload.

I don't know. Henderson can turn around and he can sell it next year.

Good thinking.

I'll get Kraken on my client roster and let you know what I find.

Hey, Reg.

Yeah? There's a company called DeMarco Properties. Ring a bell?

Not often. Why?

Something going on in the town.

Sounded really familiar.

Probably just one of those names, you know?

Probably. Hey, stay warm back there.

Lift you.

I've been putting this off ever since I got here. Oh, come on. It's just a

storage bed.

Correction. My mother's Christmas storage bed. Oh, you didn't tell me

Yeah, I didn't think you would come.

You remember all those times your mom made me help you clean your room?

Oh, it was such a wreck. I always felt so bad about that.

Oh, yeah.

Fret no more.

It's payback time.

Need something?

Coffee?

Cold compress?

Half a Santa suit?

Yeah, you stuff it in a chimney so it looks like Santa's doing a swan dive

the fireplace.

I told Dave Beckman to stop by.

I figured maybe he could find some stuff for the gala. I mean, he's bound to

find something.

Wait a minute. Dave Beckman is coming here?

He is so cute.

Listen to you.

Aren't you married?

To a pretty gorgeous looking guy, I'm pretty sure. Not for me, silly. For you.

Oh, for me?

Mm -hmm.

No, no, no.

Just no.

Oh, I get it. So I'm back home in San Francisco, right?

Well, not that he knows of.

Silent crush?

Yeah, the silentest. He's my co -worker.

Yeah, we spend a lot of time at work together, but I can't tell if it's me or

it's my work he's more interested in.

Maybe you shouldn't think so much. Just have fun.

Yeah, maybe.

I almost forgot about this.

Check this out.

Oh, wow. That is beautiful.

Yeah. My dad brought it home when I was little.

It was the most magical thing I'd ever seen.

It was his last Christmas with us.

You know, to me, the holidays were never complete until this was on top of the

tree.

Uh -oh. Looks like she roped you into helping, too.

I'm telling you, the girl has mystical powers.

Mystical powers.

Actually, I volunteered, and I hope you came ready to work.

What can I take off your hands?

All these boxes and everything in the back of the shed over there.

Oh, except for this. I'm keeping that.

Oh, a tree top.

Yeah. You sure you can handle all that?

Want me to get you a bigger box?

Have you ever seen an apartment in San Francisco?

Huh? This shed is a penthouse.

I don't have enough space for all this.

Okay. Well, um, I'm sure it brought back a lot of memories.

Huh. Yeah.

Memories of packing and unpacking Christmas decorations when I could have

out with my friends ice skating and having snowball fights like the rest of

them. Hmm.

Well, I'm happy to take it off your hands.

Yeah. Let me just start with this big one right here.

Oh, be very careful with that one.

An artificial tree? You know, it's not like you can kill these things.

It was a gift from my mom.

Janet Carson.

The patron saint of real trees only?

It was for me.

Well, I'll take good care of it. I promise.

Thank you.

All right.

So, I'll send the crew later to pick up the rest. Careful.

Thank you.

You're welcome.

You know he's very single.

You are impossible.

I'm just saying.

Watch your step.

Oh, hey.

You said you always wanted to have a snowball fight. I'm here to make your

dreams come true. Oh, no.

No, no, no. I'm okay. No, no, no, no, no. You're fine. It's fine. You're fine.

No. No.

Not bad.

Peek -a -boo.

No, no, no. You give up?

You give up?

Okay,

you win, you win.

Thanks, guys.

Why don't you take a break, all right? There's some drinks and donuts in the

kitchen, all right? Thank you.

Okay.

Now, before we start, Corey, why don't you give us an update on where we stand

with the lodge?

Not much to report yet. I'm looking into ways we can maybe preserve the hall

through the State Historical Commission, but still provide the current owners

with the income they need.

Nothing yet. Okay.

We'll keep our fingers crossed.

Now, why don't we start with choosing this year's recipient of the newly

Janet Carson's Christmas Scholarship.

I, uh... I invited her daughter down here, but I don't see her. Oh, sorry I'm

late.

Oh, yeah. Ten years in California, and I'm kind of out of practice with the

whole winter thing.

Everybody, say hello to Noelle.

Hey. The last time I saw you, we were sitting in the back of a rented, lay

-passing -out candy cane.

Alan. Yeah. Alan Tang.

Whoa.

This is our first -ever scholarship winner.

Welcome to the team.

Have a seat. Come on.

Now, if you open your files, you'll notice that all the names of the

have been blacked out.

Strictly anonymous.

That way we make sure to make our decision based solely on merit. Okay?

Okay.

I come in peace.

See? No snowball.

Ah, good thing I'm pretty vulnerable down here.

Is that why you brought reinforcements?

Um, who set us with him? Oh. Oh, so much for family loyalty. Hey, I'm not taking

a snowball for you.

He's helping me get ready for tonight.

The house lighting and the carolers. Yes, that's tonight.

Yeah, relax. We got plenty of time. In fact, yeah, Scotty and I got hockey, but

don't worry.

I'll circle back around and wrap things up before the carolers get within a mile

of here.

Don't want a dark house?

Imagine how embarrassing that would be.

Right. Almost as embarrassing when she beat you in that snowball fight. She did

not beat me.

Okay, the neighbors say otherwise.

I like him. You're just going to gang up on me, right? I ain't ganging up on

you. That's up to you. All right.

These bells will ring when peace is called.

These bells will ring.

And peace will come when the world is

Oh, my gosh.

I can't believe she kept these.

Don't just go to your strong side. Work on your weak side, too.

Are we hockey ready?

Yeah! Well, hands, ready?

Keep your sticks on the ice. Sticks on the ice.

Nice.

Eyes up, eyes up.

Good job.

Good job. Get back up.

Yeah.

Nice.

Let's go.

Hey.

Watch your step, everybody.

Good practice.

Look how cute you guys are.

There you go.

Hey. Looking pretty good out there, Coach.

Yeah, yeah. This time next year we'll be drinking chocolate milk out of a

Stanley Cup.

You here for a tryout?

No, I think I'm a little too old for your team.

It's never too late for a comeback.

Come on, let's see what you got.

Okay. You know, it's been a while.

Be nice.

I will.

I might need a little help getting on the ice. Sure, got you.

Got you.

Okay. Bring it back this way a little bit.

All right.

You're doing so well.

Yeah. Oh, wait, wait, wait, wait, wait, where are you going? I'm skating.

It only works if you move your feet.

Boom.

I just, I need to rest.

Yeah, I'm sure those first five feet can be exhausting.

Are you taunting me?

No, but I do have to tell you something.

What? Look what you said.

I can't hear you.

I didn't mean it that bad.

What do you think?

I can't. I said, look, you're skating.

are mean.

Okay, no more letting go, I promise.

You okay?

You know, I was highly mediocre at this.

Well, that makes two of us.

You seem to be doing just fine.

Yeah.

Okay, funny.

You can turn the lights back on now, smart guy.

Actually, I kinda like it.

I mean, if it's okay with you.

Yeah, sure. Yeah? Yeah.

So Scotty seems to be a pretty great kid.

No, he's just being nice because I told him you're a college hockey champ. Oh,

yeah. Okay, I think I just blew my whole cover with that last fall.

No, he really is a terrific kid, though.

I mean, Karen has done an amazing job with him.

Yeah, he works so hard.

You know, not just in school, but here with the kids and the gala.

On top of all that, he's working his tail off to get a hockey scholarship.

Sounds like he wants to be just like his uncle.

From what I hear.

You were quite the player, too.

I was defense.

And then a week before I signed with an NHL minor league team, I blew out my

knee.

What can you do?

Life happens, right? I just had to find a different path.

Like ice dancing?

I'll tell you a secret about hockey players. We all know how to do that. We

hide it.

Until we want to make a woman soon.

Is that what you're doing right now?

You tell me.

Are you swimming?

I'm falling.

No, literally, I'm falling.

Okay,

that was amazing.

I'm just glad I was here to catch you.

So, I guess I owe you one.

How about apple pie or donut?

All right, yeah.

This is so incredible.

It's like when I was a kid.

I wore you 20 pounds less when I moved here. Then I discovered these.

Oh, well then let me take you from yourself.

Okay, I'll give you half.

I'll give you half.

Is everything okay?

Yeah, everything's great.

I want the bigger half.

Boy, you are brutal with this negotiating thing, huh?

Hey. Wow.

Karen?

Is that your sister? Yeah.

In a car I've never seen before with a guy I've never seen before.

What?

Nothing.

What? No, nothing.

You know, I think it's pretty sweet when you are with your sister.

Oh, oh. You and Scotty are pretty lucky.

And from what I hear, you've been quite the life saver for them.

Well, more like they were the ones who saved me.

Really?

Yeah.

I blew out my knee.

Didn't just lose the game that I loved, I lost a girl that I loved too.

Oh, really?

Her name was Beth.

We met in college.

Both pretty, focused on what we wanted to do.

She had her sights set on a career in politics and I was going to play pro

hockey.

And then when it all went away, I don't know, I just kind of just got lost.

And then she got tired of waiting for me to figure out what I was going to do

with the rest of my life, so... It ended?

Mm -hmm.

But landing in this town, you know, being with family and having a new

I guess it worked out okay.

Yeah.

Listen to me just going on and on and on about me.

Let's just enjoy the lights and the girls.

The carolers. Christmas lights.

What time is it? It's time to go. Come on.

There's still five houses away.

That poor.

We're never going to make it. I still have the Porsche to wrap.

We'll do it together.

Let's move.

They're like two houses away.

All right.

How's it going up there?

Almost done.

All right, usually there's a ceremony around here. No, no, no time for

ceremonies. Okay, wait, you do it.

Me?

You mean the whole time you lived here you never did?

No. Well, then Miss Carson, if you would do me the honor.

We did it. We did.

In the nick of time.

Thank you. All right.

So here's to us. Both of you.

Hey, wait a minute. Are those marshmallows I see in there?

Yeah, well, it turns out if you're patient enough to let them melt just a

bit. They can be pretty sweet and wonderful.

Sweet and wonderful indeed.

Oh, hold on. Hold on just one second.

I'll just be a minute, okay? Yeah, yeah.

Hey,

what's up?

I've been trying to reach you all day. I was worried about you. Everything okay?

Yeah, everything's fine.

I went out without my phone.

You left without your phone?

Who are you? I know, right?

Is everything okay with Henderson?

There's a light out on the porch.

There's some right on the counter and in the closet.

It'll just be another minute.

Sure.

Was that a neighbor or something?

No, it's just a friend.

He's helping me out with the house.

Dave meets Rex. Rex meets Dave.

Nice to meet you.

Hey. Yeah, right.

Yeah.

You were telling me something about a company?

DeMarco Properties. Yes, the ones trying to buy the hunting lodge. What did you

find out?

Turns out they're one of Angela's newest clients.

No kidding.

That must have been why they sound so familiar. I probably overheard her

about it.

Angela's helping them expand operations out here. And get this, that hunting

lodge deal?

Turns out it's been dragging on for months and it's a pretty big thorn in

side. Whatever you can do to soften the seller and close this lodge deal for

DeMarco, it'll be a big win for us. And a huge step toward you making partner.

Yeah, I got to go.

I'll call you tomorrow.

Oh, wow. Okay.

Oh,

oh, that is great. Okay.

You got it.

You good?

I'm kind of off this morning.

Maybe we should take a break, yeah.

Yeah, I got it.

How's that? It was good. Yeah? It was good.

What happened to you last night?

I finished my call and you were gone.

Sorry. Something came up.

Something came up?

Dave, what's going on?

I heard you talking about the lodge.

When were you planning on telling me that the buyer was your client? Look, I

just found out about that last night, okay?

I didn't know, I promise.

Really? Because it seems awfully convenient to me that after being away

time, you just have to show up when there's a big deal on the line. It's not

what you think, okay? You've got to believe me.

Everything okay?

I've had better days.

Well, I'm afraid this one's about to get a lot worse.

I just heard from the owners.

They sold the lodge to the developers.

It's over.

We did our best.

At least the new owners are willing to let us have this last gala.

I'm sorry.

Yeah, me too.

Congratulations, partner.

Partner?

What was that all about? Nothing.

We can talk about it later.

Hey, so I take it you heard the good news? I hope you're all celebrating.

I'm not a celebrating moon right now.

We gotta fix this.

Fix what?

DeMarco's ecstatic.

I don't know what you did, but your stock is definitely on the rise back

didn't do anything.

Are the contracts signed yet?

Waiting for legal.

I gotta say, you don't sound too happy.

Usually you live for a deal like this.

Yeah, well maybe I was wrong about that.

That better not be Noelle you were just talking to. She called me.

See?

Incoming.

Okay,

how are things going with Henderson?

I've been through every client and holding company we have.

Nothing so far.

And you've managed to keep Noelle out of this like promised?

Of course.

She went back to Michigan to pack up her mother's house.

That's a lot to deal with.

Without question. I totally get it.

Mm -hmm.

You know, maybe you should think about her for once, instead of yourself.

She might be the one who could use a hand right now.

Karen. Noelle, hi.

I'm having a tree trimming party, and I'd love it if you came.

Yeah, um, I'm not too sure that's a good idea.

I'm pretty sure Dave doesn't want to see me right now. Oh, don't be silly. He's

fine. Besides, there'll be tons of people.

I'll see you tomorrow night, 7 o 'clock.

Bring a Christmassy dessert.

Okay.

Well, hey, come on in.

Hey, um... I want to see if you can help me out with something. Of course. What

do you need?

Well, I need to bring a dessert that feels like Christmas to a party.

And I found my mom's sugar cookie recipe.

But it's been a while since I've baked, so I was wondering if maybe you could

help. Of course.

Here they are.

The final batch.

I forgot how much fun this is.

This is going to be good.

I smell Christmas cookies.

Hey, not for you.

Noelle's going to a party later.

Hey, I saw that.

Yeah, yeah, yeah.

Hi, Karen.

Well, someone's getting invited back. Yes.

Thanks for inviting me.

Am I the first person to get here?

Nope. All's accounted for.

But I thought you said that you were going to have a lot of people over.

You know how the holidays are. People get busy, and then they wind up

last minute.

Yeah. So it looks like it's just Scotty. Hey. Hi. You.

Oh, that basement is freezing.

Oh, right. And Dave.

Surprise. Or both of us.

I am going to check on dinner.

So you fixed me up with someone who just stuck a fork in the Christmas gala?

Please, next time, just buy me a fishing rod. She said she didn't know, and I

believe her.

Oh, well, that settles it, then.

If you want to be mad, be mad.

But if you ask me, you're being ridiculous.

You know as well as I do that it was only a matter of time before the lodge

sold and the gala ended.

Yeah, well, maybe I'm just not ready to let it go.

Oh, baby brother, and that's what I love about you.

Ever since you limped to town with that big, beautiful, broken heart of yours,

you've spent every second of your life doing something for somebody else.

It's okay to let someone love you once in a while.

And a good place to start would be right in there.

I guess you missed the part about her being interested in another guy.

All I know is that Christmas is three days away, and she's sitting at my

and you're wasting time talking to me.

Besides, it wouldn't be the worst thing in the world if you were over here a

little less often.

Oh, thanks a lot.

Wait a minute, wait a minute.

You met someone, didn't you?

We might have.

I know it, that guy in the Mustang, right?

Oh, I could have had a baby sister.

I guess you just got lucky.

Karen, this dinner was absolutely wonderful.

You sure I can't help you clean up? No way. The dishes can wait.

Besides, we've got ornaments to hang.

Come on. Give us a hand.

All hands on deck. It's not Christmas until the tree gets trimmed, right?

Now you sound like my mother.

Well, let's get to it.

So, Scotty, you're quite the hockey player.

Well, let's hope the coach of Southern Michigan thinks so.

Kid's a pretty rock -solid student, too.

That he didn't get from me.

What do you want to study?

I keep thinking finance.

No kidding?

Yeah. Yeah, that was my major.

Really? Yeah, yeah, yeah. Now I get to tell people how to spend their money.

Okay. Well, it sounds like you would make the perfect emcee for the gala.

Whoa, whoa, hold the phone.

Did you just give my job away?

Weren't you listening?

She tells people what to do with their money. All you do is swing a hammer all

day. So think about it. Who do you really want to have run the fundraiser?

Okay, well, it's a little more complicated than that.

Okay, sure.

Take these lights. I don't know. You know, maybe this is something we could

do together.

Oh, that sounds like a great idea.

I'm sorry. Could you repeat that? It sounded like you just volunteered for

gala.

Well, maybe I'm a little late for the party.

Okay, a lot late.

But gala meant a lot to my mother.

And if this whole town is offering their talent, then I suppose I can offer mine

too. Well, I don't know. People really look forward to my routine. So you're

going to have to bring your A game.

Literally any game is going to be an improvement.

All right, fine. We'll do it together.

All right, then it's brought. Okay, partner.

So I'll pick you up tomorrow for the gala, and then we can go over the

on the way.

Sounds like a good idea.

Okay. You sure you won't stay and help us finish the trip?

No, no, no. You guys got it down.

I'm going to head home.

Here.

A little peace offering.

What is this?

Oh, oh.

Yeah. This is adorable.

I saw you looking at that earlier.

I'm going to put it on my mantle.

Sure about that. It'll be one more thing for you to pack.

Oh, okay.

You know what? I deserve that.

You know, about the other night, I wanted to talk... It's okay. It's okay.

You don't have to explain.

No, no, but I really... I really would like to talk about it.

Maybe over some apple cider donut?

Um... Tell you what.

Why don't we just, you know, rock the MC thing tomorrow night and leave it at

that?

So there's no second guessing when you go back to San Francisco, especially for

me. No problem.

That's fine. Cool. Okay.

All right. Have a good night. Yeah, good night.

Looking good. Good try.

Thank you.

Noelle! Hi, Missy.

I'm sorry it's so late. Oh, no, no, no, no. We're wide awake.

What have you got there?

I think the last time you saw me in this, my legs were straight up in the

and my boomers were showing. Your Mrs. Claus dress. I haven't seen this in

Yeah. I'm trying to find something to wear for the Christmas gala. Do you

it has any life left in it? I don't know. It's in pretty bad shape.

But then again, your mom would be so pleased to see you wearing this again.

I want to give it a try.

I want things back in their place again.

Well then, come on in.

Let's get started.

Everybody, can I have your attention for a second, please?

I just want to let you all know how grateful I am for all the hard work you

in these past few weeks.

As everybody knows by now, this will be our last Christmas gala here. But

without question, it will be our best. Thanks to all of you.

And I got to believe that our founder, Janet Carson, is looking down on us

now and couldn't be prouder of how far we've come.

So we got three hours until showtime.

So everybody go home, get dressed, put on your dancing shoes, and let's make

this an unforgettable night, all right?

What's wrong?

I got a letter from Southern Michigan.

They aren't interested.

Oh.

I'm sorry, I'm sorry, buddy. I know how much this meant to you.

It's their loss, right?

You know what?

It's not like college is all that anyway, so it's cool. Oh, no, no, no,

No, no, sir.

I cannot let you get away with that.

What do you want me to do?

They denied me.

So you find another way. There's lots of other ways to pay for college.

But you never stop chasing your dreams, you hear me?

You keep on fighting until you get what it is you really want.

Okay.

Atta boy.

Now go get dressed, because tonight we party!

You know no one says that anymore, right?

I have to make sure to say it more often, especially in front of you and

friends. No.

No? No. Give me that.

Mom, are you seeing what I'm seeing?

Somebody call for a taxi?

A limo?

Well, Alan told me about your last sleigh ride.

I thought this was safer.

All right, I'll be right out.

Wow.

Wow yourself.

Yeah, I dusted off for special occasions, you know, gala, contractors,

kind of thing.

Well, I'm sure we'll make quite the impression.

Well,

trust me, they won't even know I'm up there.

You ready?

Yeah. All

right,

kids. Be careful.

Here we go.

This place was amazing.

Then you'd sit right in.

Well, if you don't look like the king and queen of the prom.

Well, thanks to your wife, the miracle seamstress.

Aren't you sweet?

I'm going to have to let my pants out after this dinner.

Anyway, we'll see you at the table. Yes. Good to see you, Mike.

You were great. You too.

Thank you.

Miss Carson, may I escort you to dinner?

Absolutely, Mr. Beckman.

Your

first

Christmas together as newlyweds. That must be so exciting.

We had a long time before this one came to our senses.

He likes to tell it that way. The truth is I chased him through high school and

college. You just never seem to know.

Well, you've certainly got my attention now. Look at you two.

Where's Karen?

She's going to miss dinner.

Oh, she ran late. She had to get a little fancy for her date, you know. Her

date? Yeah. Well, doesn't that sound promising?

Oh,

there you are.

I am so sorry I'm late.

Everyone, this is Tyler.

Hey, Tyler.

You look fabulous.

And you must be Dave.

Karen told me all about you.

Pleasure. Oh, funny, because I can never get her to tell me anything about you.

No matter how hard I try.

Hey, have a seat next to me. Come on.

Dave.

Dave.

Saved by the bell.

Good evening everyone and welcome to our 10th annual Christmas Gala.

Thanks so much to the volunteers who helped put this all together.

Doesn't it look great?

Too many Christmases ago to count, a woman that we all loved by

the name of Janet Carson put an old wooden collection box on her front porch

help send a neighborhood kid to college.

And here we are, all these years later, still following her example, only in

slightly nicer clothes.

Tonight, we're privileged to have her daughter here with us, who also happens

be my co -emcee.

Please welcome Noelle Carson.

Yeah, perfect.

Hello, everyone.

Hey. Well, I'll be honest with you.

Five days ago, I was dreading coming back here, especially at Christmas time.

See, my mom made sure of that with her obsessive decorating every year.

Yeah.

Thanksgiving to New Year's.

Not exactly how a teenager wants to spend her.

Winter vacation, right?

But these last few days, I think I've learned something that I didn't know

before about my mom.

All the over -the -top decorations and all the activity that used to drive me

crazy.

That was her way of making people happy.

And showing her friends and her neighbors just how much she loved them.

Somehow I missed that.

But you didn't.

I see it every day.

In your kindness to each other.

In the way you help each other.

In the way you helped me.

The way you love each other.

You reminded me of what I'm pretty sure my mom was trying to show me all along.

That Christmas is all about the love we give to each other.

So in that spirit,

Who wants to send a kid to college?

Our student volunteers are on their way to your table to collect a donation.

So while you're giving, please remember, my mom is watching you.

I love you,

Mom.

Okay, so one final piece of business before the dancing starts.

The announcement of this year's Janet Carson Christmas Scholarship. Yeah.

And I'm pretty sure her daughter should do the honor, right?

Yeah. That's right.

Okay. Thank you.

Can we get a drum roll here?

All right.

Okay.

This year's Janet. Eric Carson Christmas Scholarship goes to...

The man of the hour.

Thanks, Uncle Dave.

No, don't thank me.

You earned that all by yourself.

Proud of you.

Thanks.

The real question is, why aren't you out there on that dance floor embarrassing

me?

I'm just taking a breather, and that's what's not really in the dancing mood.

Dance? Yeah.

Uh -uh. No, sir. No, I'm not letting you get away with that. Just ask for the

dance. What's the big deal? I just don't want to complicate things between us,

okay?

She'll be back in San Francisco this time next week.

So? Go on. Keep fighting.

Never stop chasing your dream.

Don't stop fighting until you get what you really want.

All right.

Yeah? I'll ask her. There you go. Well, now, come on.

I can't wait for you to go off to college. You know that? Oh, sure. Yeah.

You worried? Incredible tonight.

You too.

Dance with me.

I thought you only danced the night.

I have many talents.

Well, are you going to show me? Yeah.

This is nice.

You know what the best part is?

What's that?

The longer we're out here, the longer I can put off cleaning up.

Oh, yes.

Well, then I say we stay here all night.

I like the sound of that.

Mind if I cut in?

Rex?

Come here.

Merry Christmas.

Mr. Bright?

What are you doing here? I came to help.

Help? Help with what? With the moving.

You're always helping me. I figured it was about time I returned the favor.

Oh, hey.

Hey. Dave, right? Yeah. Right. Remember?

We met on video chat.

Boy, you weren't kidding.

This place is crazy.

It's beautiful.

Not as beautiful as you.

It's really nice meeting you, but if you don't mind, I'm kind of wiped out from

all the travel.

But you stay if you want.

No. I guess the party's nearly over.

We can head out.

Okay.

This is amazing.

I can't thank you enough for all you did.

For my mom.

Right, this is for charity.

I'll get you details from Noah and shoot you a donation.

Thanks.

Yeah.

Thank you.

It was a Christmas gift from Dave.

Well, I'm sure he's a great guy, but with questionable taste.

So, there's a guest room.

I can grab some clean sheets. Actually, I'm at a B &B.

It's not the worst, but I'm sure it'll be fine for a few nights.

Rex, it was really nice of you to come.

At least I could do.

Yeah. And if we can get this place all packed up tomorrow, I bet we can blow

this place by Christmas. When does the Movers show?

You know, funny thing, I...

I didn't find any.

I guess I got distracted.

No problem. I'm sure we can find family tomorrow.

Yeah.

I should get some sleep.

We'll tackle all this in the morning.

Yeah, sure thing.

Thank you for coming.

Sleep well.

You too.

All set for packing. Ready to get going?

Uh, sure.

Um... Why don't you heat these up for us, and I'll get started in here.

Wait, wait, wait, wait, wait, wait, wait, wait.

I got this.

You know what? Start in the basement.

I haven't gotten to do anything down there yet.

Okay. You're the boss.

Yeah.

You know,

you don't have to waste time cooking. That's why I brought the pastries.

Actually, I enjoy cooking.

At least I used to.

Yeah, takeout just became a habit.

Uh, okay.

But I'm here to pack.

So why don't you point out when he's boxing up?

Uh, you know, I still haven't decided what I'm tossing or what I'm keeping.

Okay.

Well, this can go.

Oh, no.

No, it still has milk in it. I'll take care of it.

Uh, those boxes.

Uh, they're ready to go.

Why don't you move those?

We'll make some room in here.

Okay. Yeah, thanks.

Hey, I'm glad you're here.

I could use the help.

Actually, I just came to drop this off.

Well, you're welcome to keep it.

I don't see that old thing making it back to San Francisco.

Not really her taste, you know what I mean?

You sure about that?

I've spent pretty much every day of my life with her for the past six years.

I think I know her pretty well.

Yeah, yeah, yeah, I guess you do.

Um...

Well, I'll tell you what. Why don't I just leave it there?

Let her decide.

Suit yourself.

Tell her goodbye for me.

Dave?

Thought I heard someone.

He just took off.

But he left you this.

That's a little weird, huh?

Coming over with a fake tree?

Who gives people fake trees anyway?

Hey, I need more boxes.

You want me to run in here?

I'm just taking a little break.

Great idea.

And I know just what might relax you.

A quick look at Henderson.

Henderson. Client files and everything.

We've got two days before it closes, though I figured while I was here...

knock. I'm going to work.

Hey, I'm Corey.

Hey. What's going on?

A work thing. We're wrapping up a file of mine.

But I thought we were packing.

It'll take a second. No one can knock things like this out with their eyes

closed. Right?

Right. See?

Once you wrap up Henderson, I'm done for the year, and then I can totally focus

on Noah.

Wait.

Henderson. Of course.

Why didn't I think of him?

What did I tell you?

With her eyes closed, ladies and gentlemen.

Corey, what's going on with the contract?

Pretty much a done deal. Just a few minor points to iron out. Okay, do you

that they would actually take an offer at the last minute?

It better be a good one. They're ready to be done with it.

Wait. You have something old man Henderson can buy?

Even better.

I think I could save the Christmas gala.

Yeah. Okay.

Follow me. Hold up. Come on.

Yes. Yes.

Absolutely.

We can have the contract over to you. Uh -huh.

First thing in the morning?

First thing in the morning. You can count on that.

So does this mean we have a deal?

Yes. Yes. Yes.

Thank you.

Thank you so much.

All right.

This is unbelievable.

You have to tell Dave right away.

Oh, no. I want to wait till the contract is signed.

Don't want to have his hopes up just yet.

Then I better get to work.

It's going to be a long night, but absolutely worth it. See?

You're amazing. You are.

She's right, you know.

You are amazing.

Rex. It's true.

I never could have done this without you.

Come on.

We should go out and celebrate.

Assuming there's a place in the town that's still open.

Maybe you should just go on your own.

I'm not really in a celebration mood.

What are you talking about? We just closed a major deal.

Plus, I'm... We're done for the year.

I know why you came, Rex.

You came because you needed me to finish your deal with you, right?

And I did it.

No, I wasn't... I didn't mean to... It's okay.

I get it.

You were in San Francisco. I was here. How else were you going to finish the

deal?

Like, you're a funny, charming, and really handsome guy.

So naturally, people just want to do things for you.

But? But not me.

Not anymore.

I think it's best if, you know, for the both of us, you go home.

You know, there's no snow in San Francisco.

I know.

That's so crazy.

Especially during Christmas.

From the girl that couldn't be bothered with Christmas, never thought I'd hear

you say that.

Rex?

If you hadn't come, I couldn't solve a very big problem.

I celebrated one of the best times of my life.

Merry Christmas.

Merry Christmas.

Hey, you're up early.

Hey.

Corey and I've been working on something that I think is going to make a lot of

people very happy. Oh, yeah? Yeah. I've been trying to reach Dave, but he's not

answering. Have you seen him?

Nope. Not since the gala.

Okay, well, if you see him, tell him I'm looking for him.

Certainly will. Thanks.

See ya.

North

Pole.

Angela. Hey, I'm sorry to bug you like this.

Oh, it's no bother. Bob took the kids to the movies so I could wrap some

presents.

Please tell me you are not working.

Uh, no, it's something else.

Tell me you're not quitting.

I cannot lose you.

Well...

Can I help you with something?

Oh, no, I'm just looking around.

I love these old hunting lodges.

Yeah, yeah, it's a pretty special place.

Yeah, well, it better be, because I just paid a whole lot more for it than it's

worth.

Oh, P .J. Henderson.

Wait, the sporting good guy?

What happened to DeMarco Properties? I made a better offer.

I just flew down to check it out firsthand.

Okay.

So, uh, what, now are you going to put one of your stores here or something?

I kind of had something else in mind.

You know, I learned how to fish in a place like this.

There's not many of them left.

It'd be a shame to tear it down and probably some kid the same opportunity I

had.

I couldn't agree more.

You know, if you've got a minute, I'd like to tell you about this Christmas

we have each year. Save your breath.

That's already baked into the deal.

It is? By who?

Some hot shot deal maker out of San Francisco.

I swear.

That woman could tuck a trout out of water.

Yeah, yeah, yeah, I know what you mean.

Nice to meet you.

Wait, you know her?

Yeah, yeah.

Thank you.

Thank you from all of us.

Merry Christmas.

Merry Christmas.

Well, it's about time you got here. I just met your friend Henderson.

I can't believe you pulled that off.

I don't know how I'm going to repay you, but I'll think of something great, I

swear. I can think of something.

You can?

Yep. Get in here. You forgot something.

Quite frankly, my mom would be very shocked.

Sorry I started without you.

It's not Christmas, but the tree gets trimmed, right?

Right.

Well, what about Rex?

Oh, he left yesterday.

I told him to.

Okay.

Mr. Beckman, would you do me the honor?

It would be my pleasure.

Thank you.

Oh, and there's, I think, something else in here.

Yeah.

Look.

What's this?

No, I am with you at Christmas and always.

I love you.

Mom.

Okay.

Found it tucked in the branches when I was cleaning.

It's perfect.

Thank you.

You're welcome.

Too bad it has to come down for the movers.

The movers aren't coming.

Neither are the buyers.

I'm staying right here.

Call my boss.

I made a deal.

You, sir, are looking at the new managing...

Partner. Averted financial consulting.

Midwest office.

Partner. Yeah.

Impressive.

That sounds like it calls for a toast.

Oh, I'm ahead of you.

Hot chocolate?

Yes.

Come for you.

Marshmallows? Nah, I'm not really a marshmallow kind of guy.

Who doesn't like marshmallows?

Someone who's found something even sweeter and more

wonderful.

Tomorrow night at 9.

Oh, we meet again.

The flight's been canceled.

The biggest holiday movie event of the season.

This storm's getting pretty bad, Mama. I might miss Christmas.

From executive producer Blake Shelton. My dad got sick.

I never got to say goodbye.

Josh Henderson and Megan Park.

We are going to make it home for Christmas.

How? With a little bit of luck. Time for me to come home for Christmas.

Premieres tomorrow night at 9. Part of the Miracles of Christmas on Hallmark

Movies and Mysteries.