Original subtitles

Merry Christmas.

Merry Christmas. Are you here for a treat?

Just got a new baton.

Take your pick.

Actually, I just came from the courthouse.

The judge found in your favor.

The property owner can't raise your rent under the signed agreement.

We won?

Congratulations.

My grandfather opened this store.

We've been here for 50 years. I couldn't imagine starting somewhere new.

And now you won't have to.

I can't thank you enough for helping us, Sarah.

I know how difficult these last few months have been.

It's what she would have wanted.

Your mother was a wonderful woman.

Here you go.

Best of the best.

No, no, no. I really actually wasn't planning on putting up a tree this year.

Please. It's on the house.

Merry Christmas.

Merry Christmas.

I'm happy to hear that things went well for you in court today. Was that the

last of your mother's cases?

Yes, there's one more to wrap up. Hang on, I can't hear you very well.

I thought there were four outstanding cases.

There were, but Mae Palmer was having trouble with one of the community

annual grants, and my mother usually walked her through them.

My mother had a lot of people who really depended on her.

Well, I don't want you to feel like we're rushing you back.

No, I've got a few buyers already lined up for the house, so I think I should be

back in Seattle by January.

Walter, thank you so much for allowing me to extend my family leave.

You've got a bright future with this firm, Sarah, if it's where you want to

Of course it is.

Well, I'm happy to hear that.

It's admirable what you're doing, taking care of your mother's affairs like

this. I just hope you take some time for yourself as well.

Have you got plans for the holidays? Are you seeing family?

No, just a quiet Christmas.

Well... I wish you a very Merry Christmas.

Yes, Merry Christmas, Walter.

Oh, and Sarah, keep an eye out. The firm has sent you a little something.

It's a gift.

Thank you.

There's music in the city, and the lights are on display.

There's a big old tree for all to see, where the children run and play.

I look out the window,

something just don't seem right.

Still I said hello.

Walter, it's Sarah. I just got to the inn, and it is so beautiful. Thank you

much for the thoughtful gift.

It's exactly what I needed.

Do you need a hand? I travel light.

Thank you.

This is my first vacation in years, and I didn't know what to pack, so I just

packed everything.

I'm Karen. Sarah.

Thank you so much.

Thanks. You're welcome.

Isn't this beautiful?

Oh, it sure is.

Welcome to the Snowfall Inn. Hi, I'm Karen Barton. I called yesterday.

Oh, yes, Miss Barton. Your room is ready.

Right up those stairs.

Thank you.

So nice meeting you. Enjoy your holiday. Thank you, you too.

Hello, Sarah Thomas.

Welcome to Snowfall Inn.

Have you stayed with us before?

No, this is my first time.

You're in for a real treat. Our Christmas party brings the whole town

Here you go, Miss Thomas.

Room four.

Oh, wonderful, thank you.

Are you sure you haven't stayed with us before?

You're very familiar.

Uh, no, just one of those faces, I guess.

Must be it.

Right, so Grammy's got the gingerbread in the oven.

It'll be waiting for us when we get there.

I want to hear the clock.

Daddy said it plays a song.

I'm sorry, honey, but the clock plays on the hour and we've got to get on the

road.

That's your dad now. Okay, Mitten 2, it's cold out there.

Ready to go?

Let's go tell Dad.

Okay.

So, should I tell the kitchen our dinner guests are going to be 20 minutes early

tonight?

Oh, uh, sorry.

I'm kidding.

I've moved forward more times than I can count.

I'm Ben.

Sarah. You said our guests. So were you the... Owner.

Oh. And manager. And, uh, current maintenance man.

How do you fit all that on one single business card?

Can I help you find some books? We sure got a lot around here.

No, I was just looking, browsing.

I held over from the previous owner.

Let's see.

Here we go.

Christmas Carol.

Have you read it?

I mean, everyone's read it. Christmas Carol.

No. Actually, everyone thinks they've read it because they've seen one of the

countless movie adaptations.

So, have you read it?

Actually, I haven't.

So you give it a try?

Yeah, maybe I will.

Okay.

Ben, do you have a moment?

Well, I better get back to work.

All right. See you later.

This? Surprise!

Oh my God, come here.

I thought I was picking you up from the airport.

Yeah, I caught an earlier flight. Thought I'd surprise you.

Thank you.

Come here.

Martha, this is my sister Beth. It is so nice to finally meet you.

You too. Ben tells me that you both stayed here as children.

Every Christmas. Yep, that's true.

Snow falling? I can't wait to show you what I've done with the place. Amazing.

Yeah? Yeah.

The caterers, they need to confirm their desserts for the party.

As soon as I take this call? Yeah.

What's this?

Yeah. Remains. Love it.

Yeah.

Hi.

Hey.

Looks like we're neighbors.

Yeah, looks like.

Merry Christmas, neighbor. I'm Jasmine.

I'm Sarah.

That's a lovely name.

Thank you.

Are you a musician?

Are you in town for a show or something? No, I'm just here for the holidays.

A gift from my wife.

Aw, lucky guy.

Very.

Okay, so...

Picture the photo booth over there, right?

Okay. And this entire wall full of lights.

Wow. Yeah.

And you'll never guess how I got to play at our party.

The Jingle Bell Sisters?

The Jingle Bell Sisters. Yeah.

Isn't that incredible? Wow.

Yeah. Sounds like things are going really well.

You know, buying this in was the best decision I've ever made. I'm glad to

that.

And I'm worried about you.

Why?

Beth, I needed a change. Most people just get a haircut.

It was a good investment, and it was a smart play.

Is that all it was?

Beth, you gotta trust me.

Okay.

Oh, are you gonna have the gingerbread mint? The ones with the... The

peppermint? I think.

I forgot about that. Thank you.

Where am I down on my list here? Very important.

Well, I'm happy to pitch in. Anything you need?

Bess, I did not invite you here to work.

You are my guest.

I know.

It just feels like a lot for one person.

And nothing I can't handle.

Sorry,

I didn't mean to drug you.

First thing I've eaten since lunch.

So?

Good.

Just good?

No, I mean, it's very good.

Thank you for the recommendation.

It's my pleasure.

You know, you can add concierge to your growing list of job titles.

I think I wear too many hats as it is.

I may never eat pie again.

So, um, why'd you come to town? Are you here visiting your family for the

holidays? No, it's just me.

Well, maybe you'd like to join us for some of our Christmas events.

Here's our itinerary, actually.

Guaranteed to make your holidays merry and bright.

I think that's so.

Okay.

Tree trimming.

Nice.

Ornament decorating.

Yeah, we have our guests paint their favorite memory of the year on an

and then next Christmas when they hang it up on a tree, they can relive the

moments.

Not so sentimental, huh?

No,

it's just not.

My mom used to do the same thing every Christmas.

I didn't realize anyone else did that.

Yeah, it's been a tradition here since I've been coming to Snowfall every

Christmas. And how long ago was that?

Um, 20 years ago.

That long, huh?

Yeah. Wow, and now you own it?

And now I own it, yeah.

So did you grow up around here?

Maine, actually.

I'm not sure how my family found it, but they fell in love with the town, loved

the Christmas celebrations.

coming to the Snowfall Inn every Christmas.

And then when I found out it was for sale, I made an offer right away before

could change my mind.

Seems a little impulsive, doesn't it?

Yeah, that's an understatement.

You know, I just... I couldn't stand the thought of someone else buying it and

changing everything that made it so special.

It's getting late. I should probably go.

Well, our ornament event is tomorrow, so maybe we'll see you there?

Yeah, maybe.

Good night. Good night.

Is there anything else you need before I head out?

Hi.

Thank you.

You have a good flight, okay?

It's just a few slow months.

It'll turn around.

Yeah, I'm sure you're right.

Well, at least we're pretty full for Christmas.

That's true.

Merry Christmas.

Merry Christmas.

Hi, Sarah. It's Walter.

Sorry I missed your call.

I'm glad to hear you're taking some time for yourself.

But I'm afraid there's been some misunderstanding.

We didn't send you an invitation to any inn.

All right. I'm sorry. I've got to go.

I'll try you again when I have a moment.

Merry Christmas.

Thanks for holding.

Yes.

Okay. And just to confirm that...

One bedroom for two nights.

Yeah. Okay, you're all set.

Have yourself a Merry Christmas.

All right, bye -bye.

You were two days behind.

Yeah, it's been one of those weeks.

Can I help you with something?

Is Martha around?

No, she's actually off to the New Year.

She's spending Christmas with her parents.

Oh, nice.

I just had a question about my reservation.

Sure. What can I find out for you?

Who made it?

Run that by me again?

I received this card in the mail confirming my reservation at the inn,

assume my office sent it, but they didn't.

Didn't they have a return address?

Yeah, no, it's right there. It says it's from the inn.

Wow, well, we certainly didn't send this.

It shouldn't be hard to get at the bottom of this.

All right, there we go.

Huh.

What? Well, the reservation line is blank.

Must be an oversight.

Did they pay by card?

Yeah, but the computer encrypts the number and doesn't show the billing

information. It must be paid by a prepaid card.

And you wouldn't happen to remember the reservation?

No, Martha handles these usually.

And she's not here. No.

Do you have any idea who would get you a gift like this?

That's big.

No, not off the top of my head.

Looks like you've got yourself a secret Santa.

Thank you.

Hi, sit down. I'm having so much fun with the ornaments.

There's a clear one for you. Thank you. All right. Paint our favorite memory.

I'm not used to such a quiet Christmas.

Normally I'd spend it with my husband's family.

Crowded house full of chaos and it was heavenly.

Why did you decide to spend this Christmas here?

Oh, we divorced earlier this year.

Oh.

I'm so sorry.

No, don't be. I've made my peace with it.

Weren't meant to be after all.

It's just...

Hard at the holidays, you know? Being alone.

And, oh my goodness, look at me prattle on.

You probably have no idea what I'm talking about. No, I actually do.

Honestly, this year has been a lot.

I suppose I came up here to kind of hide away from all of it for a bit.

Hi, how you doing?

Well, as promised.

Go faster on here, you know.

I'm so glad you came.

Yeah, talk me into it.

How's your statement so far?

Oh, it's been wonderful.

Do you know, I think I'm even booked into the same room that I had last time.

Oh, you stayed here before?

Oh, it must have been, what, 30 years ago?

Hmm.

Is that an apple? Yes, it is.

Just before Thanksgiving break, I mentioned to my students that I love to

apple pies for the holidays.

The next day, each and every one of them brought an apple from my desk.

What's your happy memory?

Still thinking.

Well, too many to choose from, I guess.

Yeah.

Yeah.

Hey, Merry Christmas.

Hi.

Merry Christmas.

Wow.

This hotel is lit, right, hon?

What? The hotel.

It's lit, right?

Really, Dad?

Hey, Cass.

The white stuff is really coming down right now.

You won't see this in Southern California.

The weatherman said that we can expect at least six inches.

And that's a good thing?

Yeah.

Snowmen.

Snowballs. Snow angels.

Mom said you grew up around here.

Yeah. My grandparents live nearby.

And I went to med school in Hartford, which is only a train ride away. So,

I guess it's a home away from home.

Far away.

Look, I know that this Christmas is a little different than what you're used

but it's going to be great.

I promise.

I'm going to go check out my room.

Mrs. Blanchett? I told you my friends would call me Frenchie.

Frenchie. How have you been?

Are you checking up on me? When is your first Christmas here?

And I know better than anyone. Every day is a new day at the inn.

New challenges keep you on your toes.

Well, I appreciate that, but I think I'm all under control.

Yeah.

Thank you.

May I?

Sure.

Okay. Wow, that was my next move.

I was going through my decorations and I found this. Thought you might like it.

Must have gotten mixed in with my personal items during the move. No, no,

You need to save it for your own tree.

No. For 35 years she watched over the inn. It's where she belongs.

Thank you.

Front desk.

Can you hold on one moment?

I'll let you get on with it. I meant to ask, is there any way to track down who

made a reservation if it was for a gift?

A gift?

Yeah, blank reservation line, no phone number.

Sounds to me like the giver doesn't wish to be found.

Yeah. Have you ever had anything like this happen when you ran the inn? A few.

Christmas tends to bring out a certain generosity.

Oh, well, thanks again.

You come to the Christmas party, right?

Oh, wouldn't miss it at all. All right.

Thanks for holding.

Come in.

Bye. Oh.

Thank you.

I like to sleep with the windows open.

No trouble.

Put it right there. It's fine. Thanks.

Who is that?

My wife. She's got a smile like a light of a whole world.

Yeah, I believe it.

Is that Coney Island?

Yeah.

It was the night before I left for three months on the road.

Our first date.

Yeah, 40 cities later, the piece never left my pocket.

Wow.

But if you need anything, just let me know, okay?

I will. Thank you. All right.

And you're sure it was the same card?

Looks identical to yours.

Do you know Jasper?

No, I met him two days ago.

Oh, so strange.

Well, if you want to speak to him directly, Van leaves in 15 minutes.

Van to where?

Well, you'll find out.

Lots of Christmas trees.

Okay.

Okay, everybody.

Edmonton Tree Farms has been hosting its holiday fair for nearly 50 years.

Now, I humbly recommend their Christmas pudding for anyone with a sweet tooth.

Looking at you, Miss Potter.

It must be a coincidence.

He said that he checked your reservation, and the line was blank,

mine. My wife made my arrangements.

Are you sure?

I'm sorry.

I must be mistaken.

Sarah, aren't you coming?

I saved a seat in the front for you.

Who's that?

It's nothing.

Just a friend from school.

Hey, we should take our pictures and post it.

Hey, Cass.

Pick your elf.

I'm good, Dad.

Hey, you know what?

I think I see a hot chocolate stand over there.

What do you say, kiddo?

Double marshmallows?

Sure.

Hello?

Oh, thank you very much. Merry Christmas.

Oh, hey, guys. How are you? Good, good. You guys good? Yeah, I'm great. Thank

you. Do you remember my friend Caroline?

Too pleased with whipped cream.

She just moved back to the area.

Newly single.

Beth, I am not looking for a relationship right now.

Well, you don't have to look.

It's not a good sign.

It's been a year, Ben. I know you were hurt, but don't you think you should get

back out there?

You see how busy I am at the end?

Is that by design?

I'm doing fine, Emily.

Okay. Thank you.

Come on.

Is Grandma with you?

We're heading out to pick up some ribbons for the Christmas wreath.

She's insisting we make the bows ourselves.

I wish I was there.

I'm sure your dad has lots of fun things planned for you. Oh, sweetheart, I need

to go.

Miss you lots.

Miss you too.

Love ya.

Hey, hon.

Hey, Dad.

They ran out of marshmallows, so I got extra whipped cream.

Thanks, Dad.

Thank you.

I've always been partial to the blue spruce.

Is that for the inn?

Yeah, I need one for a three -trimming.

Blue spruce, huh?

Yeah.

So what did you do before you bought the inn?

I was in finance.

Wall Street.

Really? You don't seem the type.

Oh, because I am not. I was miserable.

Tied to a desk all day.

Now you're here.

In flannel.

Oh, you think I'm crazy?

No.

Well, we wouldn't be the only one. My sister thought I was kidding when I told

her I had to show her the paperwork before she believed me.

So, what do you do?

I'm a lawyer.

Don't hold it against me.

Why, love?

My mother.

She had a small practice in Brooklyn, mostly social interest litigation, but

doors were always open to anyone who needed it.

A champion of the underdog, huh?

Yeah, a whole borough's worth.

And I wanted to fight that fight by her side.

So you two worked together?

No.

That was the plan, you know, to practice with her, to be a team.

But right out of law school, I was offered a job at a really big firm in

Seattle, and it just seemed like too good of an opportunity to pass up.

And she agreed.

She practically bought me the plane ticket.

Do you like it?

It's different.

It's mostly trade disputes and corporate mergers.

How about your dad?

He died when I was little.

Oh. What do you think about this?

I think... I think we have a winner.

You know, when I was little, we would decorate it with strands of cranberry

popcorn, and then on Christmas morning, we would hang them outside for the

birds. I'll have to remember that one.

I mean, I could grab it. Well, you can help me.

Come on. Breathe.

Two and... One, two, three.

Jasper.

I just wanted to apologize if I upset you.

No, I should apologize to you. I came here because I thought my wife wanted me

to. I thought this was her gift to me.

I thought this is the way she wanted us to spend Christmas together before

she... Well, when I got that card,

Kind of felt like she was still with me.

Maybe it was a coincidence.

I don't believe in those things.

Never really did.

I believe life sends us signs. It's up to us whether we ignore them or not.

Can I see that card again?

Of course.

You're a winner.

Winner? Of the sweepstakes.

You know, win a free trip to the inn.

Wait, I didn't enter a sweepstakes. Oh, these days you don't even have to. They

just pull from the mailing list. That's what happened to me.

So you got one of these cards too?

Uh -huh. I sure did.

Ms. Farden's reservation is also blank.

How odd.

Did you ever hear back from Martha?

No, but she couldn't remember.

I'll keep trying, though. I mean, who invites three strangers to an inn for

Christmas? Strange.

How bizarre.

There must be some connection here.

It's really coming down out there.

Welcome to the Snowfall Inn.

Do you have a reservation?

Sure do.

The reservation's under Ted Roberts.

Just give me a sec here.

Ted?

Karen?

It's been a long time. I'm sorry, I just... I can't believe you're here.

No, that makes two of us.

I like the... Oh, I've been wearing my hair this way for a few years now.

Suits you.

Room 12?

Just upstairs. Oh, yeah.

Thank you. You're welcome.

Well, it was really nice to see you.

You too.

So, how do you know Ted?

We dated in college. He had put a notice up on the community board looking to

our carpool ride home during the holidays, and as luck would have it, he

just two towns over from me.

On the ride home, there was an awful blizzard, and it forced us off the roads

for a night.

And you stayed here?

Oh.

Were you together long?

Two years.

If you had asked me back then, I was sure he was the man I was going to

So what happened?

Oh, he got a job that involved a lot of travel.

We tried to make it work, but it got too hard.

We just weren't meant to be.

No.

You're both here now.

We've lived whole other lives.

No, I'm a different person. I'm sure he is, too.

Whatever we had, it's in the past.

Okay, and we're going to see you on the playwright in 20 seconds. Okay, we'll

see you later.

Oh, I'm Sarah.

I just went through the last few months of reservations.

What?

What? No, I just... I know how busy you are. You didn't have to do that.

No, no, I needed to help you.

I mean, everyone.

Thank you.

Did you find anything?

Yes, there is another guest we should talk to.

When the card showed up, I thought it was a gift from my brother.

He knew I'd been looking for the perfect place to take Kath. And you didn't ask

him? I did, but I thought he was being coy, like he didn't want to take the

credit. Yeah.

Did you bring the invitation with you?

Well, if you think of anything that might help, will you please let me know?

course.

You haven't told him what you want for Christmas yet?

I've been looking for a Christmas activity to do with my teen daughter.

You know, something she'll really love.

So far, all I've done is strike out.

Well, what is she interested in?

I thought I knew, but...

My wife and I, we separated a few years ago.

We spent the time between us. It's been hard on her.

Lord knows it's been hard on me.

I just... I just want to give her the perfect Christmas, you know?

You could always ask her.

Talk to her.

Sorry, I was just looking for Ben. Oh, yeah, one of the guests needed a lift

into town.

I'm Beth, Ben's sister.

Hi, I'm Sarah.

Oh, so you're Sarah.

Ben told me all about your mystery invitation.

Yeah, he's been trying to help me track it down. I've probably been taking too

much of his time.

No, I wouldn't worry about that.

Nothing makes Ben happier than helping someone.

I just wish he'd make himself a priority once in a while.

My brother has spent weeks decorating this and turning it into something

for the guests staying here, but look at his office.

Well, how can I help?

Oh, well, this tree. I'm just doing the garlands. Yeah, sure. Thank you.

Great. Yeah, anywhere.

Is that all right? That looks great.

Can I ask you a question?

Sure.

It is 8 .42, and you're here playing chess with me.

Why?

Because I'm four moves away from checkmate.

Okay, first of all, in your dreams.

And second of all, I'm serious.

Well, I used to.

I was engaged.

But she called it off.

I'm sorry.

No, no. No, don't be. In the end, she made the hard decision for both of us,

it was the right thing to do.

I told my family that this inn was a smart investment, but I wasn't

honest.

I thought about the last time I was truly happy, and it was here.

And then when the...

and came up for sale, I thought it was like a sign.

You know, a chance to take a real risk and find something really

meaningful.

Anyway, if I fail at this, I guess I'm back to where I started.

Are you in any of those old photos?

Oh, you know, I never really looked. I don't think so. You are.

Look, are you going to make your move, or are you afraid I'm going to put you

checkmate? Oh, you're appealing to my competitive nature.

Pretty smart.

That'll work.

Nope.

Checkmate.

No, stop.

No,

no, no, no. Hold on.

Do you even know what you're looking for?

Well, you said you came here through high school, so I'm thinking been minus

few years, maybe...

Shaggier hair, the same charming smile.

You think I have a charming smile?

I will find this eventually.

Look at you.

You're so little.

Is that your sister? Yes.

I like the bow tie.

How do you know I received many compliments on that bow tie?

I believe the word my mother used was dapper.

Oh, nice.

I said I liked it.

Thank you.

You okay?

She was here.

She never mentioned this place, but that's her.

Do you think she's why I'm here?

I don't know.

Yeah.

Do you believe in fate?

Well, it's a comforting thought.

I know there's purpose beyond it all.

Even the hard stuff.

Yeah.

Now, why don't you come inside?

And I'll make you some tea.

That's very nice, but... I think I'll just... Stay here and think.

Okay.

See? Perfect fit.

Good morning.

Hey, Owen.

Oh, Sarah.

I did have it after all.

Thank you so much.

You're welcome.

Hey, what are you doing here?

I'm just dropping off some last -minute Christmas cards.

Thank you.

Well, pick it up.

A little more.

Nice.

Thank you.

For what?

For last night.

For being there.

How are you?

I'm better. I just wasn't expecting to see her.

You know, hear her of all places. And it just threw me for a minute.

Well, the ink's a little smudged, but that's our postmark already.

Hmm. So even though they weren't mailed from the inn... They were mailed in

town. Yeah.

Hmm. Thanks.

So mailed from town.

Hmm. Whoa.

All right. Thank you.

Let me help you. Oh, no, no, no, no. I told you.

I know.

I'm sorry.

And I did not help at all.

Sorry. Oh, it's all right. It's all right. We'll see if we can get that.

Okay. Here, I got it.

Thank you. All right. Of course.

Fantastic.

What are these?

Lights for tonight's tree decorating.

You're coming, right? How could I possibly say no?

End. How are you going to carry all this if I didn't come along?

Well, luckily, I won't have to find out.

I

think that

you're looking for G.

It's right here.

Thank you.

You taking lessons?

I've been teaching myself.

Really? There are these videos you can watch and follow along.

Would you play me something?

I'm not that good.

You got it?

Noel, Noel.

Yeah.

You did great.

Keep practicing, okay?

I will.

Thank you.

Excuse me.

Hi. I don't think we met.

Owen, Cassie's my daughter.

Jasper. She's a very talented young lady.

I just want to say thank you.

I think I've seen her smile since she's been here.

Would you be interested in working with her on her music?

I've been trying to find her something to do, and I think she'd really love it.

Do you play?

Guitar. Back in high school.

But I haven't played in years, and I don't think I'd make a very good

Then let her teach you.

That's something that may help.

Jasper, how about you give us a hand?

Looks like you all are doing just quite fine without me.

Please, come on.

All right, okay.

Okay, that's enough.

Looking good, everyone.

Sorry I'm late. I had to step out for some cranberries.

See you to go with the popcorn strings.

Thank you.

You're welcome.

Looks good.

Do you want me to get it set once again?

All right.

I think I'm finally getting the hang of this.

Oh, okay. You're over halfway done.

I'm out of practice.

Okay. I want to know which one of these is yours.

That one.

This one?

Mm -hmm.

Your happy memory of the cat?

It was one of my mother's cases that I worked on when I was back home.

Yeah. Mary Hargrave.

Very, very sweet woman.

was about to have her husband's pension cut off because of some ridiculous

clerical error. And when we won, she wrote me this three -page letter, and

signed it from her and her cat.

Yeah.

Just felt like I actually made a difference.

You know, I haven't felt like that in a long time.

Hmm.

What?

Nothing,

it's just you called Brooklyn your home.

Oh, well, I mean, it was.

A slip of the tongue.

Yeah, that must be it.

You know what we need?

Christmas music.

Yes, that is exactly what we need. Bing or Nat King Cole?

I know this is a long shot, but do you happen to have the Blue Note Trio

Christmas album?

Blue Note Trio?

Yeah, my parents used to listen to it every Christmas. They practically wore

vinyl out.

Do they know any other songs?

I don't know. Maybe time for me to come home?

How's it go?

I'm not singing it.

Come on.

The pies are in the oven.

Can almost taste the air.

That sounds a little familiar.

Keep going.

It warms my heart to feel her love and know how much she cares.

It's funny how going back can get you back where you

belong.

Do you know that song?

I do.

The Bruno Trio was my bae.

They were only about a hundred of those holiday albums prepped.

And my parents had one.

Wow.

They weren't the only ones.

Looks like we had one after all.

I'm sorry. No, I am.

Hello.

Good morning.

Seems like we have a mystery on our hands, huh?

Yeah. Who do you think sent your invitation?

I always leave my business cards in those raffle bowls. And two months ago,

won a toaster.

Well, this is certainly a step up from that. Yeah.

There's some nice memories attached to this place.

Our first Christmas together.

Oh, as I recall, we weren't together at the time. I was working out my nerve.

Never thought a girl as pretty as you would give me the time of day.

Well,

I'll let you get back to your coffee.

Ted. Yeah.

There's a tree lighting downtown tonight.

Would you like to go? We could catch up.

I'd love to.

Great.

Why don't I meet you in the lobby at 7?

7?

Ben?

Oh, hey.

Hey. Morning.

What are you doing?

Plows running behind this morning. This is a clear way of the driveway for the

guests. Do you have another shovel?

Beck, you are not helping me shovel.

Okay? You're my guest.

I wish you didn't feel like you could do everything by yourself, Ben.

It's okay to ask for help, you know?

I want to admit this was a mistake.

Was it?

Look, I know what this looks like, okay?

Looks like you had your heart broken, so you bought it in.

Ben,

you are chasing the past, trying to recapture a feeling.

You should be looking towards the future.

She's leaving after Christmas.

You can't hide away up here forever, Ben.

Hey.

Hey. Hi.

Looking for something?

Yeah, I just wanted to see if maybe there were some more pictures of my mom.

I just feel like she might be the key to figuring this all out.

Any luck?

No, but there has to be a connection.

Look at the release date.

1984.

Same year your mother was at the hotel.

Exactly.

Follow me.

Not all the pictures are on the wall.

Check it out.

Oh, there's Frenchie.

One of the nicest people you'll ever meet.

The owner.

Big shoes to fill.

I'd say you're doing a pretty good job.

Yeah? Yeah.

So I kind of went through some of these boxes, but I don't know.

Tell me about your mom.

Oh.

My mom was brilliant.

Yeah, she was so strong.

And she loved Christmas.

I mean, I know a lot of people love Christmas, but it was so special to my

She planned a whole week.

Caroling and ornaments, tree trimming.

We baked enough gingerbread for the entire block.

I never missed it.

Until last year.

They asked me to help out with a big client on the partner track, and I just

couldn't get away.

You know, I thought, it's okay to miss one year.

I'd known.

That's her.

That's my mom and dad. They were both here.

Oh, and that's Jasper's wife.

Do you think that's Karen and Ted?

They were all here.

All here.

Who's that?

I don't know.

There's nothing written on the back.

I know this seems an odd question, but... Is that you?

Yeah, that's me.

I must have been four.

Those were my grandparents.

Wait, where'd you get this picture?

We were here?

It would have been Christmas, 1984.

I was on the road with the Blue Note trio for the holidays.

Had a big show in the city that I couldn't miss, and she was coming to

These are your folks?

Yeah.

I met them.

You did?

The buses stopped running because of the snowstorm.

And when the storm stopped, your parents drove six hours out of their way to

bring my wife to me.

Well, she talked about that Christmas for years.

She made quite an impression.

Was my mother at your concert?

That must be why they had the album.

Your mom hardly left a dance floor.

No. Yes.

She had a great spirit.

Yes, she did.

And the album?

I gave it to him.

It was a Christmas gift.

It's just remarkable how all of our lives have intersected.

What's your wife's name?

Sarah.

Her name was Sarah.

This was your mom. I had no idea.

Do you recognize the man in the photo with the glasses?

He's the only one that we haven't accounted for.

Patrick. No, Peter. Yes, that was it. Peter?

Peter who?

Oh, I don't think he ever said, but it was so long ago.

I don't know how far that gets us without a last name.

You really think he's the one that brought us all here?

I don't know, but it's as good a guess as any.

Do you have a dress for the Christmas party?

No. Come with me.

I asked him to go to the tree lighting. Oh, Ted?

Mm -hmm. And?

He said yes.

Are you nervous?

A little.

I don't know. It's seeing him again. It's almost like we're right back where

left off.

Oh, that is so nice.

What do you think about this?

Oh, I love it.

I bet Ben will, too.

No, we're not. This isn't for Ben.

Oh, I'm sorry. I just assumed. You two have been pretty inseparable.

Well, it's just because he's been helping me with the whole invitation

Oh. I see.

Well, that's too bad. He's a real sweetheart.

And did you see him in that sweater?

Karen! What?

He looks good.

It really brings out his green eyes.

I'm going back to Seattle after the new year. I mean, my life has been on hold

the last few months, and I... This has been a really nice escape, but I have to

get back to the real world. I can't put it off any longer.

And his eyes are blue.

Well, maybe you can join him at the lighting tonight.

Where are we going?

You'll see.

So, what do you think?

Ben helped me set it up. He said we could use the space to play.

We?

This is cool.

Where'd you get that?

Jasper lent it to me.

I didn't know you played guitar.

Well, I'm a little rusty, but I think I can keep up.

What do you say?

Want to jam with your old man?

Jam?

Look, Cass, I had no idea you were interested in music.

But if it's something you love, I'd like to be part of it, too.

What should we play?

You first. Okay.

So you're a teacher?

Third grade.

My students can be a real handful, but I love it.

You always said you wanted to work with kids.

You remembered.

Of course.

What about you?

Sales.

That makes sense.

Oh, yeah? Why do you say that?

You always did have a way with words.

You could sell snow to the North Pole. I did last month. I made a fortune.

Thank you.

Oh, they're about to count down to the lights.

Thank you.

What's wrong?

Oh, there's a better order for the parties all through. I've been trying

other bakeries, but they're booked solid.

Oh.

Bess loves those cookies.

I'm sure she'll understand.

I just, I want this Christmas to be perfect for everyone.

What about you?

Me? Yeah, when do you get to just enjoy Christmas?

Oh, no, not about me.

Maybe I can find the vendor online.

You know, we should probably head back. No, you want to see the tree.

Yeah, but this can't wait.

You want me to have the perfect Christmas as your guest?

Yeah.

Come with me.

Come with me. All right.

Beautiful. It is.

Thank you for coming with me.

Nowhere else I'd rather be.

And to think you almost missed it.

Oh, if you could go over there, please.

Thank you.

I was thinking.

How does the inn record reservations in 1984?

Um, paper ledger.

Okay, so if we could find the reservation from that night... We could

name of the last guest.

Exactly.

Follow me.

Oh,

here it is.

Catherine Thomas, that's my mom.

Karen, Ted.

Peter Sanderson. Peter Sanderson. Who's Peter Sanderson? I don't know.

Peter Sanderson.

He's local.

Says he grew up in Bevington and still has family that lives in the area.

June Sanderson. She owns a bakery downtown.

What are we waiting for?

What are we waiting for?

Yeah,

I can't. I'm sorry. I just can't go with you.

Yeah, no, it's fine. I don't know what to do. Of course. I understand.

I'll... Decorations. I still got to make gingerbread cookies.

You're actually baking them yourself.

You'll find me when you get back. I want to hear everything.

Okay? You'll be my first.

Okay. Have fun.

Thank you.

Did you get it?

I got it all.

Want to come see it?

Thanks, Jasper.

You two sounded wonderful.

I'm going to go show Mom.

So, uh, Ben asked us to perform a song at the Christmas party.

And, uh, we'd love for you to join us.

You two sounded great. You don't need me.

It would really mean a lot to her.

I'm not ready to get on stage yet.

My heart's not in it.

Well, if you change your mind.

Thank you.

Yeah, that's my Uncle Peter.

Do you have a number where I can reach him? You're staying at the inn, right?

Yeah. Oh, he'll be at the Christmas party. Never misses it.

Thank you. Yeah, no problem.

Just think, we could be a few hours away from finding out why we're all here.

I'm not sure I really need to know.

What do you mean?

When I found out someone I didn't know sent me the invitation, I'm sure I had

questions. But, oh, I've had such a wonderful time here. But why seems less

important?

It's like it's fate.

What's all this?

You need cookies?

We're making cookies.

I have a great gingerbread recipe.

We've got bakers. We've got frosters.

You didn't have to do all this.

I wanted to.

We all did.

All right. Help us out.

Yeah.

That's nice.

I mean, this is pretty good for some novices.

Yeah, thank you.

Of course, it was a team effort.

Really, it meant a lot.

Well, you're always doing so much for others.

You should have someone looking out for you, too.

It's been a long time since I had someone like that.

You deserve it.

Oh, we... We have to go. It's almost five.

Yeah, right. Okay.

Sarah?

Yeah?

I'll do it for you.

I just miss her.

I know you do.

And being here, all of these traditions, everyone with all of these memories of

her, just... It's reminding me of all the things I won't get.

She won't see me get married.

She won't meet her grandchildren.

She was my best friend.

But we have memories.

Happy memories.

Memories that are always with us, that we can call on when we need them.

I just wanted to spend one last Christmas with her.

Aren't you?

Hello? Is this Sarah Thomas?

It is. Oh, I'm so sorry to be calling so late. I'm so close to Christmas, but I

just got a letter saying I'm going to be evicted.

Mary Hargrave gave me her number. She said you were going to take over your

mother's practice and you might be able to help.

Yes, the letter you received say notice to quit or execution.

Notice to quit.

Oh, okay, good. That's very good. That means you have time.

So you will help me?

I'm sorry, but I'm actually not staying in New York.

But I will find someone to represent you. I don't want you to worry.

I'll be in touch after the holidays with the name, okay?

Oh, thank you.

And Merry Christmas, Miss Thomas.

Merry Christmas to you.

Hi. Hi.

Oh, you were spending the bow time. I mean, I was hoping, really.

You look great.

Have you seen Peter?

No, he hasn't arrived yet, actually.

Would

you

like to dance?

As a host, I'm sure you have to host.

Yeah, I'm sure I could spare a moment.

I'd love to.

You look beautiful, by the way. Oh, thank you.

I wanted to say thank you.

For what?

For everything.

It's been a really hard year, losing my mom and any Christmas without family.

You have people here that care about you.

And you have me.

I do?

Yes.

You do.

Truthfully, I've been thinking a lot about us.

And, um... Ben.

Sarah.

Ben, it's him.

Who?

It's him.

Um... Excuse me, Mr. Sanderson?

Yeah? I...

Peter Sanderson?

Yes, that's me. And you are?

Sarah Thomas.

I wanted to talk to you about the card.

Card? The invitation.

Oh, the ones with the poinsettia.

Yeah. Yeah.

I'm sorry. I had to decline the invitation. My wife and I were

Didn't you invite us all here to the inn?

No.

Oh, if you'll excuse us.

It was nice to meet you.

Yeah.

I was so sure.

I know.

I mean, he was the only other person there that night. If he didn't send the

invitations, who did?

Sarah, I don't know what or who brought you here,

but I am so grateful.

This has been the best Christmas of my life.

It's because of you.

Hi.

I'm leaving.

Right.

Seattle.

It feels right.

Does it?

Ben, I don't...

Everything in my life is upside down right now.

And my job is the one thing that I have left that I recognize.

And I don't think I can lose that.

I feel like too much.

I should probably get back to the guests.

I'll be right back.

Sarah?

Is everything all right?

Yeah.

No.

I don't know.

I feel like I thought I knew what my life was supposed to look like, and I

just... I'm not sure.

I know just what you mean.

Oh, my goodness.

Is that... I thought I saw her earlier.

Well, that's Frenchie. She owned the inn the night that we all met.

She took those photos that you found.

Yeah.

Sarah?

Sarah?

It was you.

We were so busy looking at the guest, we forgot there was someone else there

that night.

The owner.

You sent the invitation.

I suppose I owe you some answers.

It was Christmas Eve when a storm blew in, and with it came my first

death in weeks.

A young pair of coeds on their way home.

An older couple with their precocious grandson.

A beautiful young singer on her way to see her love.

And a soldier and his wife with a little one on the way.

I'd no sooner checked them all in than the storm blew the electricity.

The lights went out. The heat dipped.

They could have all left. I offered to refund them.

But then something miraculous happened.

They brought in fresh firewood for the fireplace, lit candles. There was music

and laughter.

That night changed my life.

I kept the inn.

And six months later, I met my husband. We came to stay at the inn.

Thirty -five happy years together.

Two precious daughters.

I don't know what my life would have looked like if that Christmas had gone

differently.

Fate has a way of putting certain people in your path right when you need them.

But why invite us all back?

It was my gift.

To us?

To Ben.

I hoped maybe I could recreate a little of that magic for you.

French.

Thank you. Come here.

Oh.

Merry Christmas.

Merry Christmas.

That night, did you make the memory ornaments?

It was Catherine's idea and became a beloved tradition at the inn.

I'm so sorry for your loss.

But I hope you can see that the people we lose never really leave us.

You remind me so much of her.

You've only just met me.

Well, I heard all the stories.

Your mother loved to talk about you.

You stayed in touch?

Did she tell you about last Christmas?

She understood why you couldn't make it.

Above all, she just wanted you to be happy.

I just don't really know what that looks like.

I mean, I thought I knew, but I... You know, I have so many questions, and I

feel like I'm at this crossroads, and I...

Shooting my first phone call, you know.

No one can give you that answer, Sarah.

Only you.

I told you how lovely you look tonight.

Twice? Twice.

Wow.

Well, you do.

Thank you.

Isn't it funny how it feels like we've all come full circle?

It's been real nice spending the last few days with you, Karen.

For me, too.

I, uh... have a confession to make.

You do?

Yeah.

I've been thinking a lot about you lately.

You have?

Mm -hmm.

Just dwelling on some what -ifs.

And when I saw you at the check -in desk that day, it felt a little like a

Christmas miracle.

Like we got a second chance.

If that's something you'd be interested in.

What are you doing for New Year's?

Thank you so much for coming out tonight and celebrating this Christmas with us.

Well, I hope this is the first of many to come.

Now we have a very special treat from two of our guests.

Please welcome to the stage, Cassidy and Owen Reese.

You ready, Cass?

Ready.

You got this.

I'm right here with you.

Thanks, Dad.

You don't mind if I join you if the office still stands?

Of course. Yes.

Nice beach.

Look,

about earlier, I just... Look, I know. I know you're looking at me.

I just want you to be happy.

I told you, Sarah.

And?

No.

Oh, Ben.

I'm really sorry. It's okay.

We'll talk about it later.

It's okay.

Somebody here.

The pies are real.

Ben.

Oh, hey.

What are you doing out here?

Gosh, you must be freezing.

I... Here.

Thank you. Yeah.

I came here because...

I just needed to get away from everything for a while.

But then I got swept away in this... this riddle.

And it didn't matter if it was a little victory or a setback.

You were always the one I thought of.

Good or bad, I... wanted to share it with you.

You're going home?

Home isn't a place.

It's people.

And...

I'm trying to figure out what makes me happy, and I don't have all the answers,

but... I do know you're a part of it.

Thank you.

Let's get you inside, huh?

Yeah. I heard a voice on the other end of the line.

Now it's Christmas, Christmas.

I'm hurrying on my way.

Christmas. Merry Christmas.

Merry Christmas.

Well, I don't need to hear no jingle bells just ringing on my

phone.

Well, Mama just called and said it's time for me to come on home.

I said, no, Mama just called and said it's time for you to come on.

It's a charm bracelet.

I would really love to get this back to the owner by Christmas.

Let's team up.

Ashley Green. Where are you going with this? Brendan Penny. Back in time.

A Little Christmas Charm premieres Sunday night at 10. Only on Hallmark

and Mysteries.