Original subtitles

This is where I grew up, Pine Star, Arizona, and it's where I still live.

Yeah, it's got its quirks.

The roof of the dry cleaner leaks when it rains.

The desert dessert boasts the best breakfast panini in town, but we all

to order one.

It's the people who make this place.

They're genuine, kind, and look out for one another.

Our town is small enough to be close, but big enough to have a big box store.

Gretchen.

That's my sister, Marisa.

Happy holidays.

Bought some money.

A few years ago, after I lost Isabella, she moved in with us.

Oof, I don't know what I'd do without her.

Pine Star is a great place to raise a family. And everyone, I mean everyone,

comes back home for the holidays.

Welcome home.

That's my daughter, Noelle.

She says I'm the coolest dad in the world, and she still thinks that, by the

way, even though she's a freshman and has to call me Principal Morales.

All right. Hey, that was pretty good. Definitely better.

We're way ahead of schedule, you guys. I thought by December it would just be

kind of adequate, but I always get you guys believing in yourselves, and that's

what's up.

I really want it to be great this year at the Frosty Festival.

My dad will be psyched.

All right, guys, get out of here. See you tomorrow. Good job.

Principal Morales, finals next week, my man.

Let's be on time, work hard, and...

Take care of each other.

President Morales. Coach Jesse.

Not Coach Jesse today. Today I'm speaking as music teacher Vargas, and he

happy, Holmes.

I like Coach Jesse better. He doesn't hit me up for money like that substitute

music teacher.

Hey, well, we need to find me a replacement, all right? I'm a P .E.

homie. You know, music ain't my thing. I mean, I like my oldies, you know, but

I'm not a music conductor.

So maybe today, after school, we should have a fine arts department meeting to

discuss. Sorry, can't. Have to get Noelle home after school, then have to

training for my annual holiday gig.

Oh, you're not driving that Southwest Secure Delivery truck again this

Christmas, are you?

Gotta beg money for Noelle's college fund.

Plus, I like staying busy, you know that.

More jobs equal more money, right?

Hey, hey, hold on.

Let's talk right here, then.

Look, I really want our music department to win against Lake Stone at this

year's Frosty Festival.

No one wins at the Frosty Festival.

Well, no, no, no, no. Hold on. That depends how you look at it.

Right? And I like winning. I'm good at it. It's motivating.

You know, when everybody comes up to you, hey, congratulations.

We're like, yeah, we did it together.

You know, and I want that for us, for all of us, for Pine Star.

You know who wins?

Sierra, who sells that amazing funnel cake with a little powdered sugar. She

wins. Oh, yeah, that powdered sugar, homie.

Hey, hey, hey. Don't take this subject, all right? We need a family replacement,

a real music teacher, so we can pull on Monster Truck Crush and, you know, well,

maybe not that aggressively, but...

I want to be at least as good as they are for once.

Hey, I know Well's really into it. She wants it to be great, too.

All right, I'm going to see what I can do. I'm going to try to find someone,

right?

That's why you're the principal. Look, looking all good today, too. Hold on,

hold on.

All right, see you later.

Remind me why the first thing you wanted to do was put the brain together?

Honey, it's just not Christmas until the train is running.

True, but even before I unpack?

Well, yes, it's our thing, the train and the poinsettias.

We gotta go get those poinsettias.

I miss Mom.

Me too.

The winter poinsettias was her thing, but over the years I've grown to love

them.

Yeah, me too.

I will pick some up for us.

I just can't believe it's been over a year since he's been gone.

I know, but we still have all our wonderful memories.

And we have the hideous doorstep reindeer to remember her by.

Honey, that reindeer is all me.

We're all helping with the Christmas cookies, Noelle.

I'm helping. I'm finding the right baking playlist.

See?

Maybe you should have a signal, like arm raise or a little... to say, hey, I'm

working, not texting all my friends.

The line between dorky and hilarious is tricky, Dad.

You've been like that since you were a kid. Only guy in school who wore sweater

best every day.

Vests are cool.

They show off the guns and say, I've got style.

Life vests protect you from drowning. Sweater vests protect you from ever

getting a date.

Ooh,

I like this version a lot.

Bell Choir is using the arrangement for the Frosty Fest.

Dad, you should stop by practice tomorrow.

Theo Jesse would like to watch.

I'm going to see it fresh at the festival. Isn't that more exciting?

Dad, I'm worried.

Theo Jesse doesn't know much about music.

Really?

I mean, he's trying really hard and making us good and all, but we need a

Tomorrow's my first shift back at SSD, or else I would, I swear to me, huh?

From now to New Year, you're an exhausted space case.

Exactly. Holiday deliveries are woof.

Can't wait till January when this is all over. That's my gift for me.

Well, don't be so busy that you miss all the fun. Hey, if you guys are having

fun, that's my fun.

Dad, are we poor?

Mm -hmm.

Well... We're rich.

And family.

And love.

Ew, that sounds like a report.

Why are you asking me that?

Because you have a job, and every Christmas you take on another job.

Fine. I wanted to surprise you, but since I'm getting a third degree, all

money for my school job is for all of this.

And all the money from my SSD job is for your college fund.

Ta -da!

Seriously? That's amazing.

I'm pretty amazing.

Don't ruin it.

I love to ruin it.

Hey, not a gift. It's a loan.

You gotta pay me back once you're a Supreme Court Justice.

They make $223 ,500 a year.

With housing costs in D .C., that's not a ton of money.

Well, I don't care how you do it, but you gotta pay me back.

Maybe get a second job. Be the first Supreme Court justice that moonlights as

SSD driver.

Noel!

I know some people never find their true love, but... I did.

I just gotta be thankful that I had one.

I missed you, Fabella, too.

She was my best friend.

Herald angels sing, glory to the newborn King.

Too much Christmas food?

Gloria!

Dad, do you want more cookies?

No, thanks. This works.

Um, I baked these. I was going for more than this worked.

They're Mom's favorite recipe.

Sophie, this is not the Christmas cookie challenge.

Good try.

Oh, please!

I only get to spoil you when I'm visiting here.

Plus... The holidays are just around the corner, so you kind of have to have

another one.

You can call it my gift.

Okay, maybe just one.

And would Cookie like a visit from his friend?

Two percent lactate milk.

Of course he would.

You have officially put me in the Christmas spirit.

Oh, look at this.

Vintage 1950s.

Hard to find in mint condition because of the tiny pole caps on the skis.

Oh, you always said living with mom was like the holidays all year long.

Like Christmas every day.

Well, we'll be lucky if we can sell half of this before you've got to shuffle

off to Buffalo.

Okay, Phoenix. I'm shuffling off to Phoenix.

It's only three hours away.

Close enough for you to get here if there's trouble, but not close enough

to just drop by, right?

I never said that.

Well, I did just now because I could tell you were thinking it.

Thank goodness. Someone's waiting to decorate.

Hi.

Need a sign today.

All right.

Oh.

I actually have some questions.

Sure. I'm a bit of a mind reader, so let me guess.

You're wondering why I'm not wearing the mesh cap.

Not my best look.

Wow. Someone thinks an awful lot of themselves.

Oh, I bet you say that's all the delivery meant.

My question, you scored zero on mind reading, by the way.

I'm selling a lot of items online, and I'm worried that I'm going to run out of

boxes, so I was wondering if maybe you could help.

With your whole life? No, I'm not that guy, but... I can't? Boxes.

Let me get some from the truck.

Zero on the mind reading, huh?

You know, it might be more efficient if you brought boxes to the door.

You're like the first person to ever ask me for a box.

That can't be true.

Why would I make that up?

To anecdotally prove me wrong to keep a strong woman down?

Touche. Let me get you some boxes.

Besides, you probably want to keep a full uniform of action.

No one's looking at your uniform.

He seems nice.

What? Oh, never mind. I didn't hear a word you guys said.

All

right.

Now, let's relax for a second, homies, and we'll hit it again.

Sounding good, Theo Jesse.

Dude, Jessie.

That's Mr. Vargas.

Hey, listen.

Noelle's allowed to call me Jessie, all right? I've known her since she was a

little chamaca.

But as for the rest of you,

nah, I'm just playing. You can call me Jessie.

Theo, I know you want us to shine at the Holiday Fest and so do all of us, but

we need more than the bells.

We need an a cappella group so we can really compete against Lake Stone at the

Fest.

She's right.

I know.

Las bocas locas.

Yes.

I don't know what it means, but it sounds fun.

And, Noelle, you have such a great voice. So do you.

All right, perfect. Now, let's get back in there.

Just running the song again, but this time with a little more cowbell.

Uh, we don't have a cowbell.

Oh, that's what's missing. I got one right here.

Here, homie, take this.

No way. Yeah, for real. All right, Kevin, now count us in.

One, two, three.

And then she sends me back to the truck to get extra boxes.

To mess with you? Or to flirt?

See, that's what I thought.

And maybe you can invite her to the Frosty Festival.

Anyway, your tia told me that she heard practice was good today.

Well, all things you'd know if you would have snuck in to rehearsal.

Charlotte and I are going to kill it.

I know you are, mija, and I'm going to be there, front and center.

So you kind of made me owe me one?

Oh, dad, wow, look what Pedro on the Shelf brought out.

Look at that.

Hello, Pedro. All right.

Mom's ornament.

You know what? Let's bring him out this year.

I want Noelle to crush it so bad. Every year we're basically the opening act for

Lake Zone.

Jesse's right.

It'd be great to get a little respect.

And some bragging rights. We could do it, too, if I can find a music teacher.

Noelle's working so hard. It means so much to her.

I'm thinking the Lake Stone vocal locals are like the New England Patriots of

choirs. The way things are right now, we don't stand a chance.

Maybe there will be a Christmas miracle.

You look exhausted, bro.

Are you ever going to call Noel LaRue every then you take up that delivery job

every Christmas?

College money.

The real truth.

I know the holidays are hard without Isabella.

Noel comes first.

And then me, if there's any time left in the day.

Look, taking care of my family, my students, my teachers, that's what gets

pumped now.

How can you take care of everybody if you don't even take care of you?

It's called being a parent. And you parent Noel by disappearing into your

job and then showing up Christmas Eve with some presents? And a college fund.

Mom and Dad taught us that Navidad is about family.

Being together, being grateful.

That's what we should be passing on.

Nochebuena, remember?

Dad had three jobs, Marisa. Dad had to do what he had to do.

But he never missed time with us during Christmas.

Come on, we both know Isabela's life insurance is in a trust.

Noelle can go to any college she wants.

When are you going to tell her the real reason you take up that delivery job

every Christmas?

That you can't handle all the sadness you feel during the holidays. Noelle

doesn't want to talk about that. No, no.

You don't want to talk about it.

Um.

I forgot my phone.

Noelle.

Wait.

Happy holidays, guys.

Do you really think we'll be able to sing by the festival?

Oh, absolutely.

Uh, guys?

Hey, hey, hey, you guys, come on.

Don't look so worried, all right? It's just the vocals.

Did you hear them?

They sound like angels sent from actual heaven, sent here to save mankind.

You're right, they do sound like angels.

I almost started reaching out to them, like, hey, just take me to heaven right

now, because you have access.

What?

No, I'm just playing. Come on, they're not real angels, all right?

And you guys are just as good, maybe even better.

Mr. Vargas, can I go get Noelle? She hasn't come back from Walt.

That's not why she's still getting back. I know that look.

Looks like something's on her mind.

Evening, David.

Hey.

Uh, usual?

Mmm, yeah, let's go to your seat up.

Noelle! Hey, I didn't even see you there.

Nika, I feel terrible.

Well, that's how you should feel.

You should have told me the truth about your holiday job.

You're right, but... Honestly, I'm not sure I knew the truth until I heard it

out loud.

Thanks. Why do you even like that?

Winter chip with gummy worms.

You're grown up.

Did you know this is what your mom and I did after dinner before you were born?

Yeah, you told me.

Walk up to Walt's and get a scoop.

And then we'd run all the way home.

To work off the carbs.

Yeah, I've heard this a million times.

But what you don't know is this isn't even my favorite flavor.

As a matter of fact, I didn't really like it.

My favorite is Granny Smith Apple Pan Daddy.

And you're right, with gummy worms, it's pretty gross.

Winter Chip was your mom's holiday favorite.

Really?

So why the gummy worm?

Growth on top of growth?

Oh, gee.

Both got added later.

After you were born, we'd come up here, and I'd have you on my chest in this

little baby carrier, and the ice cream was too cold for you, so I'd give you

these worms, and you'd chew on them and start to giggle.

I miss you too, Dad.

I know, mija.

I'm okay most of the time.

The holidays kick my butt.

You're doing so much better at this than I am.

Ms. Valentino told us in science that energy cannot be created or destroyed.

It can only be changed.

Okay.

So when I think about Mom, I remember what Ms. Valentino said.

Mom's not gone.

She's always around.

But now she's in a different form.

Part of her is here, in her favorite place.

The other part of her is home with us.

And all the parts of her want us to create new memories.

Wow.

When did you get so smart?

I've always been.

You just aren't smart enough to see how smart I am.

Fine.

I'll come to your rehearsal.

No, no, no, no.

You're not getting off that easy.

You're going to start putting yourself out there, like Tia Marisa.

Dating? No, no, no, I'm not ready for all that.

The fact that the holidays, people are busy with their own families. Who's got

time for dating?

Well, then you have nothing to worry about.

Come on, let's put you out there.

What did you tell me when you told me to swim?

You'll never be ready. You just got to jump in.

A few days.

Good.

I may or may have not started making a profile when Tia Marisa signed up for a

dating app.

What?

Look, I'm sorry I wasn't in front with you, Mija, but a dating profile? Come

You're going to do it.

Well,

we finally have enough boxes.

But they're big and the toys are small.

I know. I messed that up. I can own it.

Well, we're solving it by stuffing them with old newspapers.

It was your idea. It was a good idea, Sophie.

And you're not letting it set you back.

Oh, wow.

The Beatles live at Fun Devil Stadium?

I wonder whatever happened to those guys. Okay, Dad.

We have work to do.

Excuse me for going slow so my daughter might stay through the holidays.

Oh, my God.

Hi.

Hi. I was in the neighborhood, because that's literally my job, and I thought

I'd check.

Need any more boxes?

You better believe it.

She got the wrong size last time. We need smaller.

I need small boxes.

And you're probably going to think it's because I want to watch you run, and I'm

going to tell you that I don't.

Let's just get to the part where I fully admit you are rocking the uniform.

You take the compliment and go get me boxes.

Merry Christmas to me.

Mmm, Miss Holland, these are delicious.

Oh, thank you. Make yourself comfortable. Oh, thank you.

Oh, thank you.

Moonlighting another holiday season, Principal.

Don't they pay you enough at Pine Star High?

I like to keep busy.

How's the bell choir coming along?

Great, and thank you again for letting the school the bells. We're so grateful.

I promise we'll take good care of them.

My pleasure, David.

I heard Miss Barron retired.

Who's replacing her?

Jesse Vargas for now.

Baseball coach Vargas?

I know. I'm working on it.

The kids are so good, too.

I just really need a legit music teacher.

All you can do is your best.

Maybe a little bit extra.

You know, my mother used to say something like that.

You remind me of her, Miss Ellen.

So positive.

Something special you ordered here?

Oh, who knows?

I have a glass of wine at night.

That way when I shop online, I don't remember.

It's kind of like someone else got me a present.

Very sweet.

A bit different, but...

Clever. That's me in a nutshell.

Shall we?

Hey, we shall.

Okay. Hello.

Oh.

A little salsa. All right.

Yeah, let's open it up. Open up. Ha.

I'm in for the dip.

Hey.

Now we go behind the back. Oof. And then we get a spin. Spin. Spin here.

Please help me welcome Pine Star Size Grupo Nuevo Las Bocas Locas.

Thank you.

All right, now let's hit that big mama bell, see what we got.

Joy to the world, the Lord has come.

Let earth receive her King.

Mr.

Morales?

That is you.

Hi. Why are you... in an SSD uniform.

I like to stay busy during the holidays.

I'm Charlotte's mom, and she's so excited to be at Pine Star this year.

David? Of course, David.

Heidi.

No, okay.

Incoming. Sorry.

I'm just, I'm really, really fun.

That's what my friends say.

Each of them separately.

So, it's true.

You look like the type of principal I wish I had.

Qualified? Yes, that too.

Hey, girls, that was great. Nice.

How do you know?

I was watching through the music room window there. Well, the bell choir is

getting better, but the new vocal group is kind of rugged.

Well, I better help her with her bell.

It's not in shirts, so mom carries it. Right.

Well, it was so nice to meet you, Mr. Morales, David, Heidi.

Got it.

Are you trying to set me up with Charlotte's mom?

Absolutely not.

What did you think of her?

I think she's a parent of one of my students, so not a possible date.

Right. We need to find someone outside of Pine Star High.

Or how about we just focus on the holiday performance, huh?

Yes. Thank you.

Oh, no!

David's too busy to help decorate.

And Noel's rehearsing, so I guess it's all up to me.

Oh, well, good thing you're a water ski instructor with plenty of time on your

hands in the winter.

You, you're working hard. Noelle's working hard trying to make her music

better.

And I hope she can find a way to take that group to the next level like I'm

about to do with this garland.

Hey, can I borrow this?

Yeah.

And we got Rudolph's red cherry delight for his nose, you see, and true North

Pole. That's an extra rich vanilla flavor with a whole candy cane on top.

Yeah. Hmm?

Yep. Merry Christmas.

Helen?

Oh, my.

Hello, Willard.

I thought you moved.

Nope. Just staying inside more.

Oh, I see.

I'm so sorry to hear about Mary.

It's hard to believe that it's been a year.

But Sophie's here helping me.

I'm doing okay.

I'm so glad to hear that.

I'm used to being by myself, but I'm glad your little girl's visiting you.

Having Sophie here, I'm remembering to enjoy my moments.

Here you are.

A nice moment. And life's full of them.

You just have to watch for them.

Can I get you another egg cream?

Oh.

Hello. And sorry.

It got returned. The letter fell out. I didn't read anything.

Because that would be wrong.

There may have been some glancing.

I'm guessing that's not a mint condition Tom Mix with Lasso, but what do I know?

Hold on. I need a favor.

No, I'm just joking. But seriously, we could use your help.

First of all, who made him an expert on mailing stuff?

Uh, SSD.

Oh, I have a package I need you to send.

She's great.

Cheers.

Now, that's her system, which isn't great.

She could be a while.

Not funny, Dad.

Oh.

She sounds fun, and I wish I could stay, but... Well, I wish she could stay

forever. Dad!

I'm just kidding!

See ya.

I got it.

Are you okay?

Yeah, I'm fine. A little bruised, a lot embarrassed.

I got it.

It's safe with me.

Yeah.

How

about

responsible, kind?

Loves mezzo -toile and Christmas movies.

Kind of boring for a dating profile.

Believe me, at a certain point in life, responsible and kind aren't so boring.

Okay, I'd go like handsome, cries at Christmas movies, and loves huevos

rancheros. He shouldn't call himself handsome. Remember, women think he's

writing it, not us. True.

Better?

Hello. I'm a normal guy. If you think that's cool, let's meet.

If you don't, all good. No worries.

Normal is underrated.

That's a good start, Noelle.

I took out the word goofy. It kind of captures the charm and a bit of the

that is your dad.

Profile pic?

I was thinking the navy shirt or the Pendleton.

Or does that say that I'm a hipster cholo type? Yeah, it does.

Yeah, he looks really nice in the navy shirt.

You know, one day when I have a boyfriend, I hope he wears a nice navy

like that.

Okay. Navy shirt works. It does.

Okay, ready?

What's going on?

You got a match.

Hey, wait.

You're celebrating like you thought I wouldn't get a match.

All right.

Good. Take it easy.

Eat this before you go on your lunch date.

Before? You never eat on a lunch date.

Say that slower and really hear it. Oof, Phil. I'm so glad you have us.

I had a late breakfast. I'll just have some coffee, thanks.

Rehearse that. Here are the options for your date outfit.

You go with this shirt.

He can't wear the same shirt as his profile pic. It'll look like he only has

nice shirt.

Hello? Do I get a vote?

Sure.

Red sweater vest.

You don't get a vote.

This is your power shirt.

The navy does make your eyes glow.

Women like glowy eyes.

All right.

I'll wear this shirt.

Thank you, girl.

Can I see a pic?

Hey, if you saw it, that's one more thing for you to trip out on.

And you swear she's not a parent of one of my students?

Yes, we checked.

Text when you're done, okay?

Have fun.

Bye.

Aw, they grew up so fast.

Okay, kiddo. I'm on it.

Thanks, Dad.

Just a quick errand. I'll be right back.

Where to?

Oh, just a few places. Stupid little things.

Oh, it's always the little things, isn't it? Don't get me started.

Well, how long until you get back?

Probably a few hours.

Be prepared to help with my famous Christmas pledge upon my return.

Love you.

Bye.

Toy

Man!

Come on.

Sophie had to head out for a minute. And all these are going to one collector

who loves anything with robots.

Okay.

Uh, can I ask you something? And I hope I'm not being too forward, but you seem

pretty thrilled to be selling all these toys.

I don't know how I feel if my daughter came into town and started selling all

stuff.

What's your secret to staying so happy? My wife passed away.

That doesn't sound right, does it?

These are not my toys. They're Mary's. She loved them.

Oh, and they remind you of her, so it's okay to let them go?

Well, the whole house reminds me of her.

What I'm happy about is that Sophie's spending time with me.

But when you're done, Sophie goes home.

Yes, but I don't know if you're keeping track, but she's not great at this. The

wrong addresses, mixed -up boxes.

Lucky me.

It could take a while.

Would it be weird if I use your bathroom real quick?

Of course you can. I'll bet you delivery guys have to go constantly.

I just need a change. I'm meeting someone for coffee. Let me get the

from the truck. Thank you. Okay.

Studying for finals is intense. After lunch, I need a break.

Sure, I get it.

I mean, it's so hard to focus when Christmas is almost here.

Who thought of exams right before Christmas? I know, right?

It's not cool.

You should be wrapping gifts and eating treats and eating more treats. Exactly.

Maybe you should talk to your principal about changing exams until after

Christmas. Right?

Pia, remember las posadas?

You and Mom would put out those candlelit paper bags.

Luminaria? Yes.

And we would eat pozole, and on Christmas Eve, Dad would bring out the

piñata. It never ended well for the reindeer piñata.

That was fun.

It was fun.

Maybe we can bring out the reindeer piñata this year.

Yeah. Maybe we can bring back that part of the tradition.

Thank you, Tia.

Go. Go see Charlotte for a break.

Studying will still be here, and so will my traditional borrowing of your index

finger for all the gift wrapping.

Hey there, not -so -stranger.

Toy lady.

Wow.

Oh, you clean up good.

I'll order us something. You want to grab a table?

Oh, I'm sorry. I'd love to hang out, but I sort of got a date.

Okay.

Yeah, my daughter set up this dating profile for me, and I promised I'd give

a try.

She also made me promise not to tell the date I have a daughter because it might

scare her off before it even gets started.

Oh.

Hmm. You are terrible at this.

But I get why you're confused.

I'm the date.

You? Mm -hmm.

Yep.

And I'm scared of children, so bye.

I got you on that one. I did. Yeah, I did.

Look, I had a late breakfast. I'm just going to get coffee. You want something

else?

How are you not supposed to say that?

Oh, well, now you don't have to.

So you picked me, huh?

Mm -hmm.

Wiped right on my SSD guy.

You do like Christmas movies, though, right?

Yes. And do you love Harry Styles and boy bands in general, or am I on a date

with your daughter?

I'm a little more into classical music.

Oh. Like Bach, Beethoven.

I mean,

you said classical, so I thought you meant... Oh, no, no, I'm sorry. I meant

classic music, not elevator music.

Elevator music.

Uh -huh. You know, I'm here, like, in an elevator. Yeah, okay. Hi, can we get

two black coffees, please? Thank you.

All right, Bill.

You like men in uniform.

Yeah. Well, typically the uniform comes with polite and well -mannered.

Lucky you, because you got charming and funny as a bonus.

Oh, yeah.

Look, here's the deal.

You're my first date in... a while.

We can tell.

Me too.

I mean, I downloaded the app because once I get back to Phoenix, I finally

to put myself out there again.

Woo, great.

That didn't take the pressure off of both of us.

Oh, definitely.

Good. I mean, we get points for just showing up. Mm -hmm.

I saw your picture online.

Same shirt, right? Cute.

I was like, he'd be good for a dry run.

I see.

So, a daughter.

I did not picture my SSD guy with a family.

Yeah? So you were picturing me.

Maybe.

I'm a bit of a mind reader myself.

You deliver by day.

By night, you dedicate yourself to a midnight rec center b -ball league for

-risk youth.

Am I good at it? Oh, you're the best. I mean, you know all the kids' names plus

the parents. The whole thing.

That's actually not too far from the truth.

Wait, really?

I'm a high school principal.

And I deliver during the holidays.

Oh, well, you're better than my principal. He smelled like Bengay and

brace. Mr. Carruthers from Lake Stone.

Yes. He's retired.

You ever hear from him? No, but I don't really keep track of school

administrators who barred me from jazz band because I played the French horn.

Oh, a lady French horn player who lives in Phoenix. Tell me more.

All right, after Mr. Carruthers derailed your music career, what happened next?

Well, plot twist time.

I'm first chair horn for the Phoenix Symphony.

Ah, classical music, right?

Not jazz.

What did you call it, elevator music?

I like a good elevator jam now and then.

No, you're right. I mean, classical music is pretty old school.

Hey, vintage, antique, I just don't know too much about it. But I'm willing to

learn.

Favorite Christmas song?

Santa Claus is Coming to Town, Bruce Springsteen.

Didn't expect that. Okay.

You?

Blue Christmas by Elvis.

Classic.

Impression? Oh, no, that wasn't good.

No? No, it wasn't good.

No.

I wasn't hungry.

Now I'm thinking the coffee might need a little company.

Yeah, I'm feeling pretty wired, too.

Are you sure it's not just the amazing conversation giving you butterflies?

I have that effect on people, Mom. Pretty sure it's just the coffee.

Besides, this is just a practice day, right?

Right. You know, could have gone to Walmart.

My dad loves that ice cream shop.

Every December, he comes up with these special holiday flavors like graham

cracker truffle and white chocolate Irish cream. Oh, hey, you're making me

hungry. All right, last year, he did this Christmas churro with condensed

in it. Wait for it.

Real cinnamon.

Oh. Mmm.

Yeah, they have one that I love this year called Granny Smith's Apple Pan

Doughty. Come on. That's my favorite, too.

Lots of the best, huh?

Noel?

Dad! Wow.

Charlotte and I were just mailing the Christmas cards.

Hi. I'm Sophie.

Sophie, this is my daughter, Noelle, and her best friend, Charlotte.

Nice to meet you.

Sophie is a professional musician.

And when Noelle is inspiring on people, she also enjoys music.

Really? What do you sing, play?

Singing is my jam, but I also plan bell choir. But now she's late for something

I like to call, I know what you're doing, now go home.

We've actually formed an a cappella group for our high school for the Frosty

Fest. Noel is super good.

Well, time to study something you're not super good at, ladies. Bye, mija.

Adios, Charlotte.

Well, Noel, if you ever want to pick my brain, I'm actually here visiting my

dad. We could all use a break from our dads, right? Yeah.

Should I leave you two alone for a while?

No, no, I'll see you at home.

Bye, Sophie.

Bye.

They're cute.

Well, David, after a good practice date like that, we're going to be very

prepared for our real ones.

More first dates with other people.

Sounds scary.

Yeah, which is why I want to thank you for being such a good first one.

Oh. Okay.

I'll see you on my route, I guess.

You will.

Bring back food.

Sophie!

Yeah?

Maybe we can practice more, too.

More practice?

I'm in.

Oh, Sophie, um...

You know how you said Noel can pick your brain anytime?

Can I ask you an incredibly big favor?

So?

And? What's the date feedback?

Well, he agreed to go on more dates, which is great.

My mom thinks your dad's cute.

She also says that I have to write out my thank you notes for my birthday or I

don't get any Christmas presents.

Your birthday was in June.

Yeah.

All right, guys, let's hit it again.

I did it.

I got something that's going to make this better. And like you wanted, I got

real musician.

What? Yes.

Take care of my people, man.

Excuse me, Pine Stars.

Amy, how's it going?

It's getting there, I think.

Well, I have a surprise that I think will help.

Selfie?

Hey, Noel.

Hey, Teach.

Hello, Toy Lady.

Dad, what's going on?

I called in a little backup.

Because he likes her.

Because she's a pro.

I play for the Phoenix Philharmonic. And Principal David.

Principal Morales.

Principal Morales.

Said you guys could use my help.

And she accepted.

And I quit. But to go be your guys' number one fan, right? So let's go. Pine

Star, you guys got this.

Si se puede.

Si se puede. Dang, I'm all excited.

Okay,

so no one knows that the Bocas Locas are performing yet, right?

Right. Well, I had an idea.

What if we surprise the crowd and the Vocals Locals, and the bells stop mid

-song, and then the Vocals Locals emerge from the bells?

Huh?

Okay, so like a mash -up of the same song?

Yeah. Well, that could work. Yeah, that's great.

Um, and you said we have one week?

Uh -huh.

Okay, we have one week.

Let's go.

Let's go, Planesaurus.

Hi, I'm Sophie. I brought cookies.

Ooh,

Sophie, from the date, that's a good sign.

Well, I asked her to help out for the festival. For Noelle and the kid.

For Noelle.

And the kid, yes.

Son, you are sweet.

Knock it off.

Well, you are good at taking care of Noelle.

And that's great conversation for your next date.

Fine.

I get to see a picture this time, though.

Yeah, what is it?

Did you see they're selling hand -decorated Christmas mugs?

I made the one with the butterflies on it.

Oh, that's very cool.

Yeah, all proceeds go to the Frosty Fest.

Nice. The Frosty Fest is a good cause.

Now, your profile says you're originally from Sedona. So what brought you out

here at Pine Storm?

Energy. I'm guided by energy.

Are you spiritual, David?

I go to church.

Mother Earth?

Mother Mary?

Yep, that is what the stones say.

Okay, you're a Libra.

Your lucky number is four.

Scales, air, strong but sensitive.

That's too bad.

What's too bad?

Those rocks told you all that?

Do they know if the Cardinals are going to cover the spread this weekend?

Unfortunately, I'm a cancer, so this just isn't going to work between us.

Sorry.

You're home early.

Eh, it was fine.

What? Did you make this?

No, I'm selfie -made, Dad.

Interesting.

Seriously, that's a relief to go on 5 -6 dates. You can eat all you want during

them. Maybe you should slow down a little. I mean, this is only our second

You should pretend to be too nervous to eat, and then on the next one, totally

go for it.

Nah.

Oh, my God.

Mmm. It's amazing.

The food or the company?

The food.

Maybe the company.

David, are we... I know.

I don't even live here.

It's ridiculous to think. No, right?

Okay, we do have fun together. I will give you that. Yeah, we do. A lot.

It's really too bad now.

I mean, I can't move.

No, well, in school, my job.

It would never work.

Never. I mean, not in a million years.

I love my job and my friends and, you know, my condo. I mean, I'm not moving.

To just practice.

Fun practice.

Yeah. For fun.

Thank you.

I always like clown on a motorcycle, constantly trying not to fall down. It's

classic Americana.

Solid work, Dad.

You know, I was waiting for the perfect moment.

Oh, honey.

I saved some of the toys I know you liked.

Oh, Sophie, that's sweet, dear.

Um, here's, um... Duck on a trike, checking out the town folk, and who can

forget Circus Boy on a horse?

Yeah, that one always weirds me out.

Well, honey, I don't need any of these.

The only thing I ever wanted that was your mother's was the piano.

You don't even play.

But my daughter does.

And if she promised to visit and play it for me, well, it would make me a lot

more happy than Circus Boy on a horse.

She promises.

I love visiting Dad.

And when you visit, you could see David.

Seems like a nice guy.

Yeah.

Actually, he is.

What was that, buddy?

Is he her new boyfriend?

Oh, that's kind of forward. You know, circus boys, they love to gossip. Yeah,

okay.

Hey, sorry I'm early. Hey, no worries. Come on in.

Right this way.

Dad, this is David's daughter, Noelle. We did music theory at Las Bocas Locas

rehearsals. She coerced me into private lessons.

For harmony.

Listen.

Feliz Navidad.

Feliz Navidad.

Feliz Navidad, prospero año y felicidad.

Yeah! Bravo!

Bravo! Wow! Oh, my gosh, you picked that up so fast. Yeah. Okay, come here. Sit

down.

Try this.

So,

Laurel Ann, when you're not a ski instructor, what are you into?

David, I like to do anything where I can go fast.

But, you know, I still compete and all, but I love to train.

I mean, you look sporty.

Well, I'm just a high school principal with a very active 15 -year -old

daughter, but, yeah, I try to train. Wait, you compete? Like, in the

Yeah, gold medal, baby.

I'm just kidding with you, David.

But I'm completely obsessed.

I mean, you know, it's a passion.

That's great.

I've recently gotten into music.

Classical music, actually. Been studying the French horn. That's late.

Why the horn?

A friend of mine got me into it.

That's cool.

Here's what I'm thinking.

Check your clock. We go for a little 5K run. Get the juices flowing. A little

chit -chat.

You in?

I don't think so.

Principal David, with your cute French horn, I really like you, but this

seem like a... No, it doesn't, but it was really nice to meet you. You too. Up

top, Principal. Stay gold.

Oh, hey.

Hello. Hi.

How are you? Nice to see you.

Making a little ice cream run? A surprise for my dad. I'm between Mexican

chocolate, cookie dough, and sugar plum berry horchata.

Both have cinnamon, and my dad always says everything's better with cinnamon,

so... Well, I might have a solution for you.

Get both.

I like it.

Hey, Noelle.

Could I ask you a personal question?

Yeah.

Are you okay with your dad dating?

I asked him to.

No, I know.

Now that he is, are you still okay with it?

Sophie, no one can replace my mom.

It would be impossible.

That's how great she was.

That's exactly how I feel about my mom.

Yeah, I kind of feel like life is about moments, you know.

And we're lucky.

We get to remember all of the amazing moments we've had with our mom.

Yeah.

So I guess I feel okay about the dating thing because my dad,

that great too.

And he deserves someone as amazing as my mom.

Not to replace her, but to love him as much as she did.

Wow. Well, you're remarkable, aren't you?

I'm out.

Merry Christmas.

You too.

Free ice cream is even more delicious and has fewer calories.

Thank you, Mr. Wald.

Thank you.

I know my dad has fun with you.

How?

Because his dates with you are the only ones he doesn't tell me about.

Um, Bells, you guys can rest for a second.

Locus, Locus, come with me.

Domino.

You know what, man? I don't think my dates are going so well because I can't

stop thinking about Sophie.

What do you mean? That means they're going great. If anything, we need to

going on those other dates.

That'll get you in trouble, me tu sabes.

You're right, bud.

She doesn't even live here, man. That's the problem.

What? Yeah.

All our dates are practice dates.

Not even real ones.

She's good, though, huh?

Yeah, she's looking B to me right now.

Music, bro.

Not A. That's what I meant.

All right? She's giving us a chance.

You said come for dinner, not come make dinner?

Smarter than I look, huh?

These are for Christmas Eve.

We do this every year.

Sophie, it's our family tradition to make and share tamales, but it's extra

special when we have guests.

Oh, my mug.

Oh, yeah?

I bought that to support the festival.

Nice.

All right, so here's the deal.

This is the masa, these are the fillings, and these are the husks. And

a little assembly line, and we each do a part.

Awesome. Well, I love food, so I will do the masa.

Are you sure?

It's kind of the hardest part.

Oh, well, now I kind of have to do it because I love a challenge.

You'll be fine.

Okay, just make sure you spread the masa on the smooth side of the husk, not the

rough side.

This side, not the rough side.

Okay, this side, not the rough side. Got it.

And these are special, too. These are carne asada tamales.

Oh. Next level.

That is a lot of meat.

Well, wait, I can't.

All right, go.

This was a little harder than it looked.

You are a natural.

Hey, I bet you're a good cook.

Well, I work nights, so I don't get a lot of practice for dinner, but I make a

main brunch. Okay.

What?

What's up?

Nothing, it's just... This is fine.

Yeah.

And the other night at dinner... We got carried away, right?

Right.

Well, Olivia... What?

Nothing.

I'm really glad you came.

Yeah, I am too.

So, all of this has led me here to good old Pine Star, Arizona.

I'm actually in a really good place in my life overall.

I'm excited about what's next, and I'm excited to meet new people, and I'm

excited to be here with you, David.

David?

Did you get any of that?

Hmm? Yes. Yes, of course. Good for you. You sound great.

Are you okay?

Honestly, Stacy, I'm not great.

I shouldn't even be here.

I probably shouldn't be dating at all. They have killer cornbread and chili

here, and it's my treat.

Seriously. I have been doing all the cooking.

Yes, you have.

This whole thing is my daughter's idea.

Noelle thinks it's time for me to get out there, and I do too, but it's not

easy. Not for me, anyway.

I didn't plan on being a single dad. Raising a teenage daughter is tough

They grow up so fast.

Also drive for Southwest Secure Delivery.

Because I got to stay busy during the holidays because the holidays are rough

for me. But Noelle said, no, Dad, you got to get out there. So I did. And then

met this incredible, amazing woman who lives in Phoenix. And she plays the

French horn and loves classical music.

I'm so sorry for this.

It's okay.

Check, please.

Oh, hey, I'm flattered, but... David, that's not my number.

That's actually the number to my therapist.

You're going to be okay.

Just follow your heart.

You'll figure it out.

Hey, those robe changes are sick.

Maybe next time a little Velcro inside the robes, though?

Brought you something.

Oh, metallic origami. Daddy, you shouldn't have.

You know, I think I may be done dating for a while.

There's got to be someone out there.

Maybe you're right, but maybe we should just take our time, huh?

Yeah.

Okay, so pop quiz.

Tomorrow?

Tomorrow. Oh, there's this cool thing called the Pine Star Lake Stone Frosty

Festival that could be fun. Huh? Want to check that out?

Stop. Be serious.

Fine.

I'm responsible for picking up the choir concert gloves at the dry cleaners, and

I'm going to have plenty of time to do it after my last shift.

Cool. You're going to be great tomorrow, man.

Sophie really helped, huh?

Yeah, she's awesome.

Yeah, she really is.

Hey there, Tate.

Principal, Penn.

Hello.

Yeah, I hate that principal just doesn't have the same ring to it.

So, Noelle told me you're giving her private lessons.

For the show.

Yes, it's really good. You should think about private lessons. She could get a

music scholarship.

Well, maybe she can study with you.

Are you planning on staying longer?

Um, actually, here are the last of the boxes.

Look, I saw you last night, Sophie, and I just want you to know that was my

last date.

Let me explain. My sister and my daughter. I didn't know you saw me last

but it's cool. I mean, we're not dating, so... Oh, I know. I know. We're

practice dating. But the thing is, I've kind of grown fond of our practice date.

Yeah, I mean... Admit, we've had some pretty good dates.

Maybe.

And trust me, compared to some of the dates I've been on, ours have been

But I'm sure you've been going through the same thing, too, right?

Like what?

Well, you know, nothing to talk about, no chemistry.

That sounds awful.

Right? What about you? Any hall of shame moments?

Well, I only went on the dates with you, but from the report you're getting,

you're not really making a good case for me to start dating when I get back home

next week.

Next week?

David, my work here is done, right? The kids are ready to perform tonight, and

all the mom stuff is gone.

So, I guess it's Merry Christmas and... Are you around?

Maybe.

Merry Christmas, David.

How about a coffee?

Or a walk? Or coffee and a walk?

Now?

Yeah, I just got one more package to deliver and I can meet you at the

in, say, like, 20 minutes.

Yeah, yeah, okay, yeah.

You

know what

this looks like?

Like nature's most perfect giant Christmas tree, lad?

That 80s gymnastics movie, American Anthem, where the bad boy gymnast comes

in the woods. He's all upset.

He lost his girl. He's focused.

I think nationals are right around the corner. Or maybe it was the Olympics.

Never thought.

I bet he dug deep.

Oh, yeah. It was raining.

And for some reason, there's a bar between trees. It's at regulation

height. And he just nails it. Yeah. Oh, bad boy gymnast.

you brought me here for inspiration little oh take that like stone oh look

at those little moves okay musical yeah sliding on the pine straw you know it's

pretty funny you're so great with the kids and

you and i are great

sophie i can't help how i feel when i'm with you

Even though I'm leaving?

Especially because you have to leave.

Me too.

What you said.

You're amazing, David.

You're kind.

Funny.

I'm going to miss you.

Terribly. Because you're so ridiculously wonderful, and I blame you.

All right. That's on me.

Christmas

Eve is

always so magical.

Especially this one.

It's only 6 p .m. I know.

6 p .m.? What?

6 p .m.? It's 6 p .m. I gotta go!

What? What? What? David!

Noel! What's wrong?

David! What's wrong?

Noel's never gonna forgive me.

Ah, try cleaning these white gloves.

Flipped myself first.

Screwed up.

I'm dead.

Do you think this is a mistake?

No!

It's 6 .30. Where is he?

Don't worry. This isn't weird, all right? Principal Morales knows what he's

doing. He's just pumping us up by being late. You know, like, ooh, where is he?

He's making it more fun by keeping us waiting until the last minute.

How is this fun?

Because I'm a teacher, and I said so.

Look, I'm sorry, but worst -case scenario, the bow car just performs

No way in heaven's basement, Mr. Vargas.

No gloves, no bells.

They're antiques.

and sweat and skin oil grows to breath and ruins the sound.

Oh, Dad, are you close?

No, I am not. I screwed up big time. I'm sorry, Mia. I didn't get to the dry

cleaners in time. Can you play them without the glove?

That's a no -go.

All right, don't worry. I'm going to figure something out. I'll see you

I'm here.

I'm here.

Okay. These are a little different, but they should work.

All good.

Everything's going to be great.

Here you go. Here you go.

They're dishwashing gloves.

Will they work?

I don't know. Maybe.

What happened?

I wasn't thinking about you. I was thinking about me.

And I forgot what was important long enough to screw it all up. I'm so sorry,

Mija.

Even if we could use them, they're way too big.

Oh, come on. Please.

Sorry.

Uh -oh.

Uh -oh.

He didn't make it to the dry cleaners on time.

Okay. Okay.

We get a rock and we break some dry cleaner glass.

No one will know it's us.

What about when they find all that's missing is eight pairs of white gloves?

I'd be a terrible criminal.

It's always been a dad.

Hey, Mila.

I'm sorry again.

I'm thinking, what's the big deal, really?

What?

We can't get so down about bells or gloves or vocal locals.

Vocal locals will always be in our lives.

Yeah, but I let you down.

You're my dad.

You can never let me down.

Well, I did this time.

Remember when I was little and you and mom would sing Feliz Navidad?

You're still little.

I used to sing Feliz Navidad.

Yeah.

I used to think it was about me.

I was your Feliz Navidad.

You still are.

So what's the big deal?

We wanted one thing and we got a different thing instead.

What does that sound like to you?

Energy.

Yep.

You can't destroy anything. It just changes into something else.

Pine Star does not need those bells to go up on that stage.

I promise it'll be great.

One way or another?

Well... Come on, let's go get ready.

Happy Navidad, everyone, and welcome to our very special Frosty Festival.

You know, we got a lot of fun in store for you. We got lots of music, lots of

cookies, and of course, lots of ice cream. So if you keep your tickets up,

get a free scoop of ice cream at Walt's.

Walt's, your friendly neighborhood ice cream store. Now, it's Christmas Eve, so

let's get this party started.

Ha, ha, ha, ha, ha, ha, ha, ha, ha.

Maybe we should decide on a signal or some sort of bird call.

What are you talking about, Dad? What if I get disoriented and lost in the

crowd? I'm pretty sure once you're an Eagle Scout, you never forget your

training. I think that's the Marines.

Okay, Dad.

See you in a minute.

Hi. Hi. Raffle tickets are $2 each.

Okay, we'll take two.

Sophie, hey.

Oh, hi.

Look, I know it's almost showtime.

I have something I think will help.

Come with me.

At this point, I think we just gotta pray. Like a lot of Hail Marys.

Sophie.

Sophie, look.

I have to apologize. I know I ran off, but I had to get to these kids because

they were... Why did you say I was a mistake?

What? No, you're not the mistake.

I'm the mistake.

And then I ruined it by not getting the gloves, and now Pine Star's doomed.

Well, maybe Pine Star's chances just got a little bit better.

A gift?

I don't know what to say.

Just open it, funny guy.

You know, if you let someone help you every once in a while, maybe you

have to do everything all by yourself.

After you left, after I got over being hurt, I remembered.

My mom used to have these.

for people at her conventions when they're handling their toys.

This is amazing, Ellen.

Perfect.

Yes!

Oh.

I don't know how I'm ever going to repay you.

Oh, well, Ellen mentioned you're quite the dancer.

Maybe a lesson or two here or there?

All right, come on, everybody get prepared. Let's go, let's get ready.

You know you saved Christmas.

I got lucky.

What about Phoenix or here, driving, practice?

Okay, one thing at a time, Teach.

Come on.

Let's bring it in the middle. Let's bring it in the middle. Here we go. On

three, Pine Stars. One, two, three. Pine Stars!

Okay, now for our time -honored musical finale.

Up first.

Lake Stone High School's vocal locals!

Bells on bobtails ring Making spirits bright What fun it is to ride And sing a

playing song tonight Oh, jingle bells, jingle bells Jingle all the way Oh,

what fun it is to ride In a one -horse open sleigh Jingle bells, jingle bells

They're good.

Don't worry, Mia, we got you.

Come on, kids, let's move. Let's move. We got more acts for you. Come on, let's

go. Let's go.

I can't quiet them.

Please enjoy Pine Star's version of Feliz Navidad.

Dedicated to Noel's Feliz Navidad.

It worked.

Yeah, it did.

I want to wish you a Merry Christmas from the bottom of my heart.

I love you, Dad.

I love you, too, Mia.

So

good.

You were absolutely amazing.

So proud.

So good.

Ah, Dad, let's go.

I'd like to, but I got one last delivery I gotta make.

What?

No, you are not working on Christmas Eve.

You're right.

I'm not.

Today was my last day ever working during Christmas break. I'll be the

Oh, Willard.

Oh, Dad.

Christmas Eve. Let's go home.

Ready? If we move too fast, we can't miss life's most special moments. I'm so

glad my daughter taught me to slow down and enjoy them all.

You're kidding.

Let's check it out.

And Marisa was right.

I just needed to figure out how to take care of my family and myself.

Prospero año y felicidad.

I love my life.

Sophie loves hers.

And now, we love each other. And we don't mind driving back and forth from

to Phoenix making it all work.

I'm going to remember this Christmas as one of the most magical of my life.