Original subtitles

Time is it?

Oh, honey, you don't want to know.

I am now.

I agree. He plays his music much too loudly.

Morning.

Hi, kiddo.

Hey, Dad. Guess what I'm doing today?

What? A field trip. Oh, SARS and stuff. Great. I loved studying that stuff when

I was a kid. Yes, this is boring.

I know. I know it's a problem.

I have a feeling 309 is acting up again. Well, I'll...

Talk to him again.

I'll do what I can. Yes.

Goodbye.

Don't tell me you're tired of being apartment manager.

No, I love dealing with the crazy neighbors.

I have some great news for you. It's going to be a great Christmas season at

store, and we'll be out of this place by the beginning of next year. Did I

already tell you that? That's what you told me last year when I wanted to move.

I know that, but this time I'm absolutely sure of it.

Hey, guys, where did you put my laptop? Oh, never mind. I got it right here.

What?

The elderly lady with large home in the avenue seeks live -in couple? No way,

Carrie. Live -in couple for meal preparation, light housekeeping, and

This is the answer to our prayers. That sounds like a nightmare, living in a

house with some old lady. It's in the avenue.

Look, it says we have our own private, fully furnished quarters.

Yeah, who knows what that means. Well, let's go find out. Meet the woman. This

is absolutely the worst time of year to make a move. Oh, no time is a good time

for you. Besides, I do all the packing.

Moving would take part of an afternoon talk.

Richard, you spend all of your time at the store. I'm here every day, all day.

You have no idea how depressing it can be.

Okay, forget about me.

It's Jenna I'm most concerned about. This place is too small. It cramps her

spirit.

Okay, I'll think about it. I promise. I was hoping you'd say that.

Because we have an appointment at noon.

What?

Is that the one?

That's 150 Grand Avenue. We're looking for 141.

I like all these houses.

That's it.

This place is gorgeous. This place is like a prison.

Hello.

You must be the Evans family.

Yes, I'm Richard Evans. This is my wife, Carrie.

It's our daughter, Jenna.

Hello.

My name is Stephen Hoover. I'm Mrs. Parkins' lawyer.

Please, come in.

Mrs. Parkins never had live -in health, but she's in her 70s now, and to be

frank with you, I think she's more self -sufficient than she really is. I think.

I worked for Mr.

Parkin for many years.

Since his death 14 years ago, I've continued to give Mrs. Parkin advice,

and otherwise.

It took a while, but I convinced her this was in her best interest.

So it wasn't Mrs. Parkin's idea to have somebody come live with her?

Not altogether.

Tell me, how did Mr. Parkin make his fortune?

Hard work.

Mrs. Parkin, the Evanses are here.

Please sit down.

Thank you.

Would you care for some peppermint tea?

Yes, thank you.

None for me, thanks. I don't care for tea.

Mr. Evans, do you have any idea how many species of tea there are?

I'm afraid I'm not up on that.

600, placed in about 30 genera.

Interesting.

Thank you.

Are you from this area?

We moved here from Seattle two years ago.

We immediately fell in love with it. It's such a wonderful place to raise a

family.

This is your only child?

Yes.

I'm in kindergarten.

Before we begin the interview, I would like to discuss the nature of the

arrangement. As the ad stated, I need someone to prepare meals.

I don't eat breakfast, but I would expect brunch to be served at 11 o

dinner at 6 o 'clock.

My laundry is done twice a week, on Tuesday and Friday, and the bedding

at least once a week.

As for the outdoors, Mr. Evans... Yes, ma 'am.

You will need to take care of the leaves in the autumn, and all the pathways

must be kept clear in the winter. All other household maintenance I hire out.

That's doable.

In exchange for this service, you would have the entire South Wing.

Is this overall arrangement agreeable with you? Yes, absolutely.

Very well.

Now... I would like to ask you some very important questions.

Do either of you smoke?

No. Good.

I don't permit smoking in the house.

Also, I do not permit loud music.

Well, I left all that behind in college.

Jenna here now, she plays those Mother Goose records so loud that the neighbors

have to call the cops.

Dad!

Kids will be kids. Do you have any children, Mrs. Parkin?

No, I do not.

I was just kidding.

We're really very quiet, aren't we, honey?

Yes.

Are you currently employed, Mr. Evans?

No.

I'm an employer.

I have my own business. It's called the Ski Company. Maybe you've heard of it.

No, I haven't.

Have you ever skied?

Mrs. Parkin is the one asking the questions, Richard.

That's quite all right.

I have never skied, Mr. Evans.

The thought of flying down a mountainside on two narrow pieces of

appealed to me. Sorry.

Do you have any references?

Yes.

I am the apartment manager for our building.

It allows me to stay home and spend more time with our daughter.

But we're ready for a change, aren't we, Richard? Yes, very much so.

As I have told all of my applicants, there will be a trial period of one

Thank you all for coming.

I really like this house.

Yes, Mrs. Parkin, I was an architectural history major in college, and this

home, it's truly beautiful.

I will let you know as soon as possible.

Oh, am I glad to get out of there. That was a disaster, wasn't it? Thanks to

you. What do you mean, thanks to me?

I can't believe you said that about me, Dad.

I was joking.

Why do you always have to do jokes, Richard?

Oh, come on, Carrie. It's a beautiful house. But why on earth would you want

live with that woman? She has no sense of humor. There's no way she could

to Jenna. She's never had kids herself.

Well, I can tell you this. I know people, and she's not as tough as you

Well, I know people, too, and she needs to strap on two narrow pieces of wood

and fly down the side of a mountain. Something. Anything.

Don't worry, Mom.

We'll find another place to move.

Richard, you've got to hear this.

An unseasonably early Canadian cold front continues to move eastward over

northern part of the country.

The front could trigger snowstorms in higher elevations throughout the Rocky

Mountain states. All right.

I'm telling you, partner, this winter is going to be gangbusters for us. Well,

if it's not, I'm going to be in a lot of trouble because I promised my wife this

morning we were going to turn the corner at Christmas. And we're going to.

Well, we better.

For one thing, it's the only way I'm going to get out of going any more of

interviews. Oh, yeah. How'd it go?

The old lady did not like me at all. Come to think of it, she wasn't too

charming either. Excellent.

Your apartment may be small, but it's still your castle. Yeah.

The last thing a man wants to do is live in someone else's castle.

That's right.

Dad! What are you doing up so late? We're celebrating.

What are we celebrating?

We're moving into the parking house, Dad.

You've got to be kidding.

I guess we stood out from all the other applicants.

Thanks for going along with this.

It's a crossroads for us. I can feel it.

At least it's a big castle.

I need to tell me this woman lives here all by herself. Not anymore.

Jenna, walk.

Don't run.

I can.

I mean it. I love our new house.

You just lay here and take a nap. We'll have a tea party. We need a map to know

where we're going. This place looks like a museum.

Just as long as she doesn't ask us to take off our shoes.

Where are we going with this thing, anyway? The attic.

Good thing you don't own a piano.

Carrie? Yes, Miss Parkin.

After you settle in today, we'll need to discuss brunch and dinner menus. Yes,

ma 'am.

You never discuss the brunch and dinner menus with me.

Thanks so much, George.

Okay, okay.

Just don't ask me again.

I've done my good deed for the year.

Well, I leave you with Brunhilde.

Oh, here.

And him.

Oh, thank you.

See you, guys.

Bye. Thanks.

Okay, let's finish up.

See, that didn't take long.

Can't you see what's up here?

Where are we going?

Unbelievable. This attic is as big as most people's houses.

Well, for better or worse, we're here.

It's dusty up here. Look at all this dust.

Hey, Dad, look!

What?

Who's this?

Look at this.

This is exquisite.

Look, it's a Christmas box.

There's a wind -up seat on the bottom.

It must be a music box.

Play it, Mom.

I can't. It's locked.

I'm hungry. How about takeout? You have no romance. Know that? I have a lot of

romance. Let's get pizza.

Chinese. Pizza. Chinese.

Pizza. Chinese.

Pizza. Chinese.

Chinese. Chinese. Pizza. Pizza.

This is such a great place.

You'll get used to it.

Before long, all this will be music to your ears.

Yeah? What kind of music is that?

Classical.

That's what this house is like to me.

A piece of beautiful classical music.

Mrs. Parkin. Good morning.

How are you feeling today?

Fine, thank you. Good.

Mrs. Parkin, I noticed some beautiful Italian china in the kitchen cupboard. I

was wondering, would it be all right if I used it sometime?

For you, not us.

I prefer this china.

Is this beef bouillon and mutton?

Yes, ma 'am. Is that all right?

Well, this...

is a cream soup spoon, and I will need a clear soup spoon.

Oh, I'm sorry.

I've never used formal silverware, but I would love to learn about it if you

wouldn't mind teaching me.

Very well.

Well, there's no doubt that for a beginner, that's the right brand, but

tell you, sir, if your son's friends are going to be hitting the slopes, chances

are they're going to be on these snowboards here, and he's going to want

those. Richard.

I'll call for you. Excuse me just a moment. George, would you take care of

gentleman for me? Sure.

Hello?

Well, yes, sir.

Yes, sir. How are you?

Well, fine. It's good to hear from you. What can I do for you?

Really?

Well, you bet I will. I will, of course. I'll check my schedule, and as soon as

I can nail down a date, I'll call you.

Well, this is great.

Thanks for calling.

Bye.

Who was it? Oh, that was just our man in Park City.

Yeah, so what did he want? Oh, nothing. He just wants to know how soon I could

get there to meet his partners.

Yes!

Back to work.

Where do you think she goes, Mom?

I have no idea.

Is it a secret?

I don't think so, Jenna. Come on.

Let's try on your tutu.

There we go.

It's perfect.

Is Dad coming home for dinner tonight?

Not tonight.

Why?

Let's see.

Tonight he has inventory.

Inventory?

Inventory is where your father tries to figure out if he has enough merchandise

for the season.

I like him and Cory.

Hello, Miss Parkin.

I'd love to stay and chat, but it is getting a little bit late, and, of

you know, work begins early tomorrow.

Mr. Evans, you entered by the north gate when you came home tonight.

The north gate? Yes, I did. I would prefer you to use the east gate. The

gate is directly under my bedroom, and I'm a light sleeper. Oh, of course.

I'm sorry. I didn't mean to wake you.

East gate, no problem.

And please, park your vehicle by the garage.

I noticed that you left it by the front door.

Park by the garage, use the east gate. Anything else?

Will you be coming home this late every evening?

Well, more than likely, yes, I will. We're getting towards the busy season. I

hope that isn't a problem.

I hope it isn't either.

Remember that investor I've been talking to? The one who's thinking about

putting up money for a second store?

Yeah. Well, he called me today. He wants me to get up to Park City as soon as I

can to discuss the details. There. Let's see what kind of a noise you make

tonight. You know how I feel about that second store idea, Richard.

Honey, I know, but you've got to trust me on this. This is a tremendous

opportunity. And this guy's talking about fully funding the operation.

George and I wouldn't have to put up a cent. All he wants is our expertise.

And time, no doubt. We hardly see you now as it is.

You only have dinner with us once a week with a second store more than two hours

away. I'm sure we can kiss that goodbye.

You don't understand.

An offer like this doesn't come along every day. I don't think you understand

how much Jenna misses you or how much I miss you for that matter. Carrie, that

first store, it's just a way to make a living. But the second store, that's

what's going to get us where we want to be.

Where is that?

Here, the avenues.

We are here.

No, we're not. We're guests.

That's not good enough.

I love you and Jenna so much. I want you to have everything.

Richard, I already have everything I want.

Good morning, Mrs. Parkin.

Good morning.

I've been using the East Gate, Mrs. Parkin.

Richard, I love it when the leaves start to turn.

Don't you?

Uh -huh. Oh, by the way, do you know the Latin for maple?

No, I don't.

Acre. Acre rubrum, the red maple.

Acre saccharum, the sugar maple.

Just a name, too.

They really are quite beautiful, this time of year.

So instead of saying, would you please rake the leaves, she says... Do you know

the Latin for maple?

That's just her way.

It's a very strange way, if you ask me. I gotta tell you, she's giving me the

willies. Every time I turn around, I'm running into her.

What's that?

Mary rings the bell if she needs something.

Excuse me.

So, how's our new landlady treating you?

She never talks to me.

She just reads her Bible.

Other books, too.

How do you know?

Because I see her.

And you know what?

Sometimes she gets in a taxi and has gone for hours.

And she takes her umbrella whether it's raining or not.

I hope you're writing all this down.

Would you care for some dessert, Mrs. Barkin? No, thank you. I'll just have my

tea. Yes, ma 'am.

I like this setup.

The lady of the manor on that side, the servants on this side.

Mary is a lonely woman who, from what I can tell, doesn't have anybody in her

life.

I don't mind putting up with her idiosyncrasies. She certainly has a few,

for sure.

It's sad, actually.

Nobody ever calls, nobody ever visits.

I can't imagine why.

And I've noticed another thing.

There are no pictures in the house.

No family photos, nothing.

It's as though she doesn't have a past.

Mom says Mary just needs friends, and we're it. Lucky us.

Sorry.

Not tonight, honey. Please.

Nope, it's already past your bedtime.

Just the short one. No, come on. Under the covers. Please. Nope, nope, nope.

Please.

Okay, Janet. All right, all right.

Just one.

Just one, that's all.

Okay, scoot over.

Let's go.

Okay, the million dollar bear.

Richard?

George is on the phone. I'll be right there. Honey, I'll be right back.

Dad?

Oh, you've got to be kidding me. We've got to have that shipment by the 20th.

Well, no, wait, wait a minute. Give me his number. I'll talk to him and I'll

call you right back, okay? What is it?

What?

So you keep having the same dream night after night?

This is your kind of stuff, isn't it? I think it's really interesting.

Actually, I'm jealous. I've never had a recurring dream. I'll tell you what, you

can have mine.

So does the angel say anything to you other than Richard?

No, she's just waving.

Waving?

Yeah, you know, beckoning.

Beckoning? Oh, that's good.

I hate to spoil your fun, Carrie, but it is just a dream.

You haven't given this enough time.

I've given it long enough to know that I prefer living alone.

Maybe it's this particular family that's the problem.

Oh, the family's nice enough.

Although the husband is a bit of an odd duck.

Mary, you need someone here with you.

If you're not feeling well, someone's here. If you need something in the

of the night, someone's here.

Of course, there is an alternative.

Don't even bring it up.

I'm not sure why you want to stay in such a large house.

Because it is my home.

There are some very fine retirement facilities.

I don't like old ladies and bingo.

Then my suggestion is you try to make this arrangement work as well as

You owe the Evans family 30 days.

At that point, if they're not working out, we can try someone else.

Coming in. Thanks.

George, I'm sorry I'm late.

Whoa, buddy, you look terrible.

Thanks a lot.

What are you, sick or something? No, it's that stupid house.

What happened?

What, they discover bodies in the basement? The whole place is weird. The

lady is weird. The whole thing is making me weird.

So? Move.

George, have you ever had a recurring dream?

Yeah.

Karen Estock.

Business 201.

I'm serious.

What, are you having dreams now? I know this sounds silly, but I've never had

dreams like this. They're so real.

I'm waking up with a cold sweat.

What are they about?

Now you're going to laugh at me? No, no, no, I won't laugh.

It's the same thing every night.

An angel is beckoning to me.

Oh, partner, that place really is a laugh.

I never should have let Carrie talk me into moving there in the first place.

No, but you did.

It's not working out, and we're getting out of there, and the sooner the better.

You're serious, aren't you?

You really want to leave. Yes, I do.

I hate to break it to you, but we can't. Why not?

I have an obligation to Mrs. Parkins.

Obligation? What obligation? It's my job.

I'm sure that's something you can understand. Yes, it is, and I'll tell

what. Your job is affecting my job. Oh, are you saying your work is more

important than mine? No, I'm not saying that. I simply would like us to move to

a place that we all feel good about. Oh, I'm sorry, Richard. The only way we're

going to move is if Mrs. Parkin kicks us out.

It is not polite to spy on people, child.

I'm not spying. I'm just waiting for my dad.

Let's drag me downstairs here in the hall.

You should wait upstairs.

I like it here.

What makes you think Jenna did it?

Obviously, your wife would have told me if it had happened while she was

cleaning.

I don't have a cat.

It is the only possible explanation, isn't it? What about a ghost?

I'm just kidding, Mrs. Parkin. I'll speak to Jenna.

I would appreciate that. Thank you.

I still don't understand why she didn't come to me about this.

I'm the one who's here all day.

Well, she's old -fashioned. The man's the head of the household.

Carrie? I know this isn't really a good time, but I gotta go to Park City

tomorrow.

You're kind of letting me know about this at the last minute, aren't you? I

you I was gonna have to go. But it's just for one night. I'll be back on

Go, go, go if you have to go. It's really important.

Just don't forget Jenna had the dance recital Friday evening.

I haven't forgotten. I'll be back for that, I promise.

Mrs. Parkin.

Are you busy?

I mean, do you have a moment?

Yes.

I just wanted to tell you how sorry I am about the broken vase.

And, of course, how sorry Jenna is.

This is a little something for you.

Jenna worked very hard on it.

She knows how much you love books.

She would have liked to have given it to you herself, but I'm sure you

understand she's a little afraid because of, you know... The broken vase.

Yes, exactly.

Anyway, she hopes you enjoy it.

Once upon a time, there was a nice old lady who lived in a red house.

And she had some very pretty things until a little five -year -old girl came

live with her.

But the little girl really wanted the lady to like her.

Park, is something wrong?

Oh, everything's fine, thank you.

I've come to see Jenna.

It will only take a minute.

Please, come in.

Hello, Jenna.

I came to thank you for your very thoughtful gift.

Perhaps you'd read it to me sometime.

You'll think about it, won't you?

In the meantime, I'd like to invite you and your mother to tea this afternoon.

Yeah, it's all right.

The truth is, I never liked that vase anyway.

Hideous old thing.

Now, what about that tea?

Where's that?

Terry!

Anybody in here?

Jerry?

Jenna?

Come on, you two better not be goofing on me.

My beloved one, how cold the Christmas snow seemed this year without you.

Even the warmth of the fire does little but remind me of how I wish you were

here with me.

I love you.

How I love you.

You were the best ballerina there. I had a lovely time, Carrie.

Thanks for inviting me. You really made the evening special.

Hi, Dad.

Hi, kiddo.

We thought you were going to be back this afternoon.

Well, one meeting turned into a whole bunch of meetings.

It's okay. Mary came.

Really? We made up. We had tea with her and everything.

You missed a wonderful evening.

We're going to go get some hot chocolate.

We can have Marty with us, too.

You can join us if you like.

Richard. It's so early. What are you doing out here?

I couldn't sleep.

What's wrong?

If it's about last night, I'm sorry I gave you the cold shoulder. It has

to do with that.

Carrie, there was something very strange that happened here last night before

you got back. What? Do you remember that music box you found in the attic? Sure.

Well, I heard it.

You mean it still works?

You could say that. I was downstairs looking for you before you got home, and

heard music playing, and I followed it up to the attic, and it was coming from

that box.

And as soon as I got up to the box, the music stopped. Did you move it?

Somebody must have moved it.

But the strangest thing about it is that the music that's coming from the

Christmas box and the music in my dreams is the same.

Now, I know, I know, that makes me sound like I'm crazy, but either I am going

crazy, or there's something very weird going on in this house.

Maybe you shouldn't think of it as weird.

Well, that's easy for you to say. You're not the one who's been having the

dreams and hearing music.

Richard, what if all of this isn't a coincidence?

Hey, what do you mean by that?

Well, what if we were meant to come to this house?

I know you don't want to hear that. I know you'd like to get as far away from

here as you could. You got that right.

But think about it.

Maybe there's a reason we're here.

This is for you.

Well, actually, he's a very old bear.

Where'd you get him?

Jana, you never ask anybody where your present came from.

I'm going to name him Henry.

Perhaps you'd like to bring your new friend down to the den.

It's warmer down there.

I want to stay here.

Well, we could finish that book we started.

I have a better idea.

Perhaps your father could read it to you when he comes home.

Mary.

Yes? Did you know my dad's going to teach me how to ski?

Oh, is that so?

Yep, he promised.

Well, then I'm sure he will.

He's promised things before.

And they didn't happen.

Jenna, you must understand that starting a new business

needs a lot of hard work and a lot of time.

Is work better than here?

No.

No place is better than home.

Then why does he want to be there instead of here?

I suppose sometimes we forget.

You'll let me know if you need anything, won't you?

Richard? What is it, Mrs. Parkin?

There's a bit of a chill this evening.

Would you start a fire for me?

Certainly.

Richard, do you know who the Greek god of fire was?

No, but I have a feeling you're going to tell me.

Hephaestus, son of Zeus and Hera.

There.

Will that be all right?

Yes, thank you.

Richard, by the way...

Jenna and I started to book but we were interrupted I told her that I was sure

you'd be happy to finish it when you got home

I

Wish mrs. Parkin had considered

that I might have something to do before she volunteered me

I didn't say anything

I'm

sure your mom would be happy to read the book to you

Good morning, Richard.

Morning.

I have an appointment in town. I believe it's on your way to work.

Oh, maybe Carrie could drop you off. No, I've given her the day off. She's been

working too hard lately.

Edgewood Plaza.

Do you know it?

Mrs. Park and I have lived in this town over two years. I think I know where

Edgewood Plaza is.

Very good.

Shall we?

I've lived here all of my life. When I was young, these decorations went up a

couple of weeks before Christmas.

Then they started putting them up just after Thanksgiving. And now, we don't

even get to enjoy Thanksgiving.

They're so busy selling Christmas.

You can pull over here.

Richard, do you know what the first gift of Christmas was?

A tie?

You mean you're not going to tell me?

Maybe you should give it some thought.

The door.

Mrs. Parkins, I want you to know, I'm pleased as punch that you've become

to my wife and daughter. But we've got to come clean here. What is it that you

don't like about me?

I don't dislike you, Richard.

Quite the contrary.

I think you have a lot of potential.

Well, then what exactly is it that you want from me?

A ride home.

What? Be here at two o 'clock.

Two o 'clock? I can't... I'm not your chauffeur.

We stopped at the church on the way home, and then she wanted to go to the

grocery store and then the pharmacy. That's when I put my foot down. What is

with this woman? She knows I've got a business to run. I think she just does

because she knows it gets on my nerves. Richard, you're overreacting. I'm not

overreacting. It was really annoying.

She kept talking about how store owners are greedy, and she asked me another one

of her weird questions.

So she's always doing that.

What was the question?

What was the first gift of Christmas?

I told her a tie.

See, it's funny. I thought it was funny, too.

Did she think it was funny? Oh, no. She said I should give it some thought.

I think she's just trying to connect with you. Oh, really? Well, she is. I

news. It ain't working.

Richard?

I'd really like to ask Mary to have Thanksgiving dinner with us.

What?

No, no, we can't. We were already set to have dinner with George and his family.

They won't miss us. They have a large family to share Thanksgiving with. Mary

only has us.

Carrie.

This was an excellent dinner, Carrie.

Thank you. It was terrific.

So, Mrs. Parkin, how many years have you lived in this house?

Well, let's see.

Almost 50 years.

Wow.

Thank you.

We used to live in a nice little house back in Seattle before we moved here.

Why did you move?

Richard had an opportunity to start a business with his old college roommate,

we sold our house and moved here and started a new life. And has it been

it? Absolutely.

What about your husband? Didn't he have his own business?

Yes, he did.

Well, looks like it was worth it.

He traveled quite a bit.

going to get a christmas tree this dinner conversation is boring you isn't

jenna i think jenna is right it's time to start thinking about a christmas tree

what do you say we go next wednesday at three o 'clock how would that be for

you richard well i'll have to check my schedule

I don't know what you're so upset about. I put in a full day's work and made it

home in time for dinner.

Barely. I made polite dinner conversation. That's right, it was

all it was.

Well, I'm sorry I wasn't more lively.

You know what I think the problem is here? I think you're disappointed

we weren't some big happy family out there. Was it so wrong to want that? No,

but it might never happen. Mrs. Park and I do not. Mary is not the problem. You

are. All you're concerned about is your business, Richard. You couldn't even

take off Thanksgiving. And I'm glad I didn't because we had a lot of customers

today.

It seems to me you can't wait to start up the second store, make a lot of

and move out of here as soon as possible. Then Mary will be by herself

Why am I being criticized for working so hard?

I have knocked myself out to get this business off the ground, and I

Now, where I come from, that's something to be applauded, not put down. I have

supported you 100 % for the past two years, and you know it. But I have to

you something. You've changed greatly. You really have.

Even when you're here, you're not here half the time.

Sometimes I think you'd rather be at the store than with us. That's ridiculous.

Is it?

I've seen how you are, you and George.

You're such a tight team, no one else can get on it.

You love it at that place. You love it so much you want another one. Okay,

you be happier if I were miserable? Because I'll go back and work for

else again. That's not fair. You know I'd never want that. Then what am I

supposed to do? You tell me. I'm confused.

So am I, because I do know I don't want to spend the rest of my life with an

absentee husband and father.

Do you hear that?

No.

Carrie, do you hear that music?

Sure.

Honey?

Tell me you don't hear that.

I don't hear it.

The music.

What music?

My beloved one, another Christmas season has come, the time of joy and peace.

Yet how great a void still remains in my heart.

They say that time heals all wounds, but even as wounds heal, they leave scars,

token reminders of the pain.

Remember me, my love.

Richard, it's 3 a .m. What on earth are you doing?

I can't believe you were reading Mary's personal letters. I didn't go up to the

attic in order to read her letters. And the letters aren't the issue here.

What's important is that I'm here in music and you're not. Mom?

Oh, did we wake you, honey? I woke up because... Just one second, Jenna. It's

the end of the line for me, Carrie. We gotta get out of here. This house is

definitely not good for me.

Dad! Honey, we're in the middle of something here. Since we moved here, I

haven't had a decent night's sleep. I feel like I'm sleepwalking all the time.

Mom! What, baby?

I just had a dream about an angel.

You must have told her about your dream, and that's why she dreamt it. You and

Carrie are the only people who knew about that dream until last night.

So the dream that Jenna described... It's exactly the same dream I've been

having, night after night.

I've got to tell you, buddy, that is out there. This is something that can't

just be explained away.

So what are you going to do?

I don't know.

I was wondering, do you have any books on angels?

Oh, let me think. Where are they?

I just started here. It's okay. I'll find them. Hang on just a second.

Janet!

Angel book!

Religion! Aisle 15!

I heard it.

Thank you.

Angels, heavenly spirits with wings, which signify travel between heaven and

earth.

From the Greek, Angelos.

Messenger.

Okay, all right, let's pretend, and I'm not saying I believe this, but just for

the heck of it, let's say there is some reason that I'm having these dreams.

What could it possibly be?

And what about that Christmas box? And what about those letters? I can't decide

if she wrote them or if they were written to her. I don't think you should

any more of those letters. Well, I don't intend to, but you want to know what I

think? I think that they were either written to a lover or by a lover.

really, this feels too private. Listen, listen.

There are no pictures of her and her husband anywhere in the house.

That suggests they didn't have the best relationship. And what about you? You're

always wondering why she never had kids. She's so great with Jenna.

Maybe she couldn't have kids. Maybe her husband didn't want to have kids. That

would be enough right there to drive a wedge between them. See, this all makes

sense. Unrequited love.

Her inability to come to terms with something really important.

What do you think? Mom!

I know you'll work it out.

Good morning, Richard.

Hello, Mrs. Parkin. How was your walk this morning? Well, I'm a little tired

today, so I decided to come back early.

Oh, by the way, we'll see you at 3 o 'clock this afternoon.

3 o 'clock?

Yes.

We're going to get a Christmas tree, remember?

I'm sorry, I'll have to pass.

But you promised your daughter.

No, I never promised her. I said I'd check my schedule.

Well, perhaps 4 o 'clock would be better.

That will give you more time to do whatever it is you do.

Mrs. Parkin. I promised Jenna that I would go.

And I am going.

Four o 'clock it is.

Wonderful.

She's so sneaky, you know. I don't appreciate that, the way she puts me on

spot. Well, I never could have gotten you to take all the work to come here.

Besides, I've really grown to love her, and she's become like a grandma to

Jenna. Well, she does have a style of her own. I'll hand her that.

You know, Richard, I'm concerned about her. She hasn't been feeling well

She's in her 70s. You know, you can't exactly expect her to be full of pep all

the time. I know.

She did go out yesterday, same as usual, every Tuesday, rain or shine. I offered

to drive her, but she didn't want me to.

Do you have any idea where she goes? I don't know, but I don't dare ask. Mary's

given me a few glimpses into her past, but most of it's a closed book. I'm

What? I found the best, absolutely best Christmas tree. Come on.

You did.

I want this one.

Oh, no, that's terrible.

What is it? Well, sure it is. Look at the top of it. You'd never get a star to

sit on the top of that thing. I like it anyway.

And I like it too.

Carrie, help me out here.

It's growing on me. Thanks a lot.

You know, Richard, with your help, it will be beautiful.

Oh,

wait, Jennifer, it's right there for once. Oh, yeah.

Here we go.

Great. I still think you're all crazy.

Oh, it looks wonderful.

Thanks very much.

Richard,

I could use a little help here. I'll be there. I'll be there. Carrie, I don't

see what the big deal is. She's never done this before.

She's gone out all the time.

That's every Tuesday. This is Thursday, and she's been gone longer than she ever

has. I've looked everywhere for her.

Okay, so tell me. What is it you want me to do?

Mrs. Parkin!

Mrs. Parkin!

Carrie's been worried about you. She had no idea what happened to you.

If you'll let me get the car, I'd be happy to give you a ride home.

I'd like to sit a moment, if you don't mind.

You okay?

Fine, thank you.

And you?

Well, I had to go all over town looking for you.

Sorry if I troubled you.

Mrs. Parkin, I can't help but wonder, of all the people who applied for

this position, how come you picked us?

You and I aren't exactly birds of a feather.

You remind me of my husband.

Excuse me for asking, but is that good or bad?

Depends upon which year we're talking about.

A portrait in your attic, is that him?

That was a bad year.

I never liked that portrait.

It always struck me as being so... so pompous.

It does make him look like a stuffed shirt.

He wasn't always like that.

When David and I were first married, we were like any other young couple, full

of plans and excitement for the future. But unfortunately, people can

change.

David did.

He started to travel more and more, made lots of money.

And the more success he had, the more he wanted.

Richard, have you given any further thought to my question, the first gift

Christmas? I'm working on it.

It is not a trivial question.

I'll give it some more thought.

I promise.

Hi, honey.

Oh, that was an interesting afternoon.

I'll tell you one thing at a time.

Now we know where she goes all the time.

She and her husband may not have had the best relationship in the world, but she

must have loved him. She visits his grave every week.

I'm surprised I never saw her there, though. I pass that cemetery every day

my way to work.

Richard.

Mary's really not well.

What do you mean?

She asked me to take her to her doctor after you brought her home.

What's wrong?

It's her heart.

She's been on medication for years, but the latest tests show that medication

won't be much help anymore.

What's she going to do?

Apparently, at Mary's age, there's nothing else they can do.

Her doctor said her heart isn't giving out.

Oh, Carrie, I'm sorry. I'm sorry.

I don't know how I'm going to tell Jenna.

Now don't start feeling sorry for me.

I just want you to know if there's anything we can do.

I take comfort in knowing that Kerry and Jenna are here.

Good night, Mrs. Parkin.

Good night, Richard.

The ad starts running Tuesday.

Ski boots are in, but Richard, we have got to order more snowboards.

Pronto. Those things are flying out of here.

I think we're down to about a dozen or so.

Even the purists are starting to convert. Could you take care of that

Hello?

Richard? Huh?

What?

You didn't hear a word I said, did you?

I just missed the first part.

Snowboards.

Yeah, right. Okay.

why isn't mary eating dinner with us anymore she doesn't feel up to it honey

i be excused please

mary's

getting worse isn't she she's been eating up in her room most of the week

know i can't help but think that

It's more than the illness that's keeping her up there. I just feel so

There's nothing I can do.

I just feel guilty. All those nasty things I said about her. No, no. No, I'm

serious.

Whatever it is she wants from me, I just can't seem to give it to her.

Yes?

Mrs. Barkin, do you mind if I come in?

Not at all.

I've been given some thought to your question.

The first gift of Christmas.

I know what it was.

It was love.

The first gift of Christmas was love.

That's a beginning, Richard.

Mrs. Parkin, why is it so important to you that I get this thing?

Unfinished business, I suppose.

It's so cold today, Mary, I've made us a nice pot of vegetable stew.

Mary?

Mary!

Yes, I'm on the third floor.

Room 400.

Second door on the left. Thank you.

Why couldn't I stay at the hospital with Mom?

Because there's time for you to come home.

Is Mary going to be home for Christmas?

No, honey, Mary's very sick.

Is she going to die?

Yes.

Jenna, I'm afraid she is.

I want to give Mary her Christmas present, darling.

I think that's a nice idea.

Come on, honey. It's time for bed.

Dad, do you believe in angels?

I've never seen one. Not a real one, anyway.

Does that mean anything you don't see isn't real?

No.

No, that's what faith is. What?

Well, faith.

Believing in something that you can't really see.

Like angels?

Like angels.

You look exhausted.

It was a long night.

The doctors are keeping her as comfortable as they can. She's been

and on.

I wish you don't have to stay. No, I want to.

I just have to go for a little while, but please call me if there's any

okay? Of course.

I brought you something, Mary.

It's your Christmas present.

Oh, it's beautiful.

Thank you, Jenna.

And you too, my dear, for your friendship.

It has meant so much to me.

Hey, pal.

I know you don't feel like celebrating, but why don't you close it down, come

out, say hello to some of the people. I gotta go back to the hospital after I

finish here.

George? Yeah?

Let me ask you a question.

Do you remember the last time we went skiing?

Skiing? Yeah, skiing. You know, that thing that we used to love to do a long

time ago.

We just haven't had the time, that's all. Strange, isn't it?

I mean, here we are, surrounded by ski equipment, and we don't even have time

do the thing that got us into this business in the first place.

I'd love to discuss the subtle irony of the situation further, but... Do you

remember we decided that once this store turned the corner, we were going to

hire an assistant manager?

You know, kick back, spend a little more time with the family?

Whatever happened to that idea?

The idea's still there.

It just got postponed, that's all.

Yeah, well, I don't want to postpone it.

What do you mean?

George, I don't want to do the second store.

I don't want to postpone my family anymore.

Richard, I know you've been under a lot of stress lately, and I'm really sorry

about Mrs. Parkin.

Why don't we just...

Put all this aside for now.

We'll talk about the second store after the holidays.

George, what do you think the first gift of Christmas was?

A tie.

There's a smile I know and love.

My dear Andrea, how I wish that I might say these things to your gentle face.

I know this cannot be for now, and this causes me such pain.

Having to give you up has made me finally understand how limitless the

God truly is, that he could give his only son.

As my faith has grown, so has my hope, hope that one day I will hold you in my

arms again.

Until then.

I love you, my little angel.

Mother.

Mr. Hoover.

Carrie. Mrs. Parkin had a daughter.

Andrea. She was only five years old when she died at the same age as Jenna.

She wrote the letters to Andrea.

She's been living with this girl.

grieve for all these years honey the doctor said she doesn't have much longer

I'm so sorry.

I wish you'd told us about Andrea.

I understand now, Mary.

The first gift of Christmas.

It was a child.

For God so loved the world that he gave his only begotten son.

Good care of your family.

It was Mary's generous wish that we call her home our own.

We treasure the house and look forward to raising our family within its loving

embrace.

But the greatest gift Mary gave me were the lessons she taught me about how

precious our time is here, about love and family.

The lessons that came.

With the Christmas box.