Original subtitles

♪

(chattering)

I saw that, sara.

Oops. Don't tell my boss I was too busy to bake anything.

Your secret's safe with me.

Uh, but only if I get the first one.

Done.

I need your help with something -

carson ranch.

The cattle ranch in montana.

That's the one.

They need to take out a second loan

to cover their losses from the drought.

Yeah, a lot of farms and ranches really suffered out there.

They did, they did.

The problem is, this loan isn't going to be approved

unless the carsons can show they can make the payments.

Right now, they're barely breaking even.

So they need to cut their costs, or increase their income.

Yeah. You tell that to travis carson.

He's as stubborn as they come, wants to do things his way.

Have you done a site visit?

Actually, that's where you come in.

I want you to go.

Aren't site visits a vp thing?

Mm-hmm. Sara, you're one of the best financial advisors we have

and we think you'd make an even better vp.

This is your chance to show it.

Thank you, peter.

I appreciate the opportunity more than you know.

But, full disclosure, I know nothing about ranching.

That's exactly why I want you to go.

You can analyze this business from a fresh perspective,

maybe find a solution that we didn't think of.

Okay then. Of course I'll go.

So, are you thinking early January?

We can't wait that long.

No, this loan needs to close by christmas.

I need you to go tomorrow.

Well, I can book a return flight for the 23rd.

So, no matter what happens, you'll be home for christmas.

Sara, what's wrong? This is a great opportunity.

It is. It's just...

Chloe's on christmas break starts tomorrow.

Oh, bring her with you.

Look, I know that ever since rob passed away,

christmas has been rough on you and chloe.

It just hasn't had the same feeling to it.

Well, right,

so maybe a chance of scenery would help.

You'll get plenty of that in the big sky state.

Come on, I'm sure chloe will love it.

Chloe: Do I have to come with you?

It's just for a couple of days, chloe.

But montana's like the wilderness.

What if there's no wi-fi?

I think you have the wrong idea about what montana is like.

Do you know what it's like?

No, but tomorrow, we're both going to find out.

♪

(exhaling sharply)

(horn honking)

(exhaling sharply)

(shivering) is your jacket working?

Apparently not.

Okay. Come on, sweetie.

Kay: Welcome to kay's place.

Nice to meet you.

I'm sara bradley, and this is my daughter chloe.

Hi.

Oh, you two look freezing.

Come on in. Sit down, please...

Thank you.

While I get you checked in.

And I will bring you some hot cider

and some homemade fruitcake.

Thank you.

Well?

I've never actually had fruitcake before,

so this is officially the best fruitcake I've ever had.

(laughing) I like you.

Thank you.

You're welcome.

Oh, do you have a wi-fi password?

Oh, we don't have wi-fi.

I told you!

I'm joking.

It's "starbigskychristmas, exclamation point."

even your wi-fi is christmassy.

I wouldn't have it any other way.

Chloe, please don't be on your phone the whole time.

You're gonna be working.

I don't know what else to do.

Go down to the end of the block, and turn right.

There's a lot of cute holiday shopping.

It was nice of kay to loan us that hat and these mittens.

Yeah, except they don't have the little thingy

on the fingertips to use on touch screens.

You say that like it's a bad thing.

(instrumental version of "jingle bells" plays)

oh, mom, let's look over here.

Sure.

Hello. - Chloe: Hi.

Welcome to st. Nick's knickknacks.

Wow, that's the best name for a christmas shop ever.

Well, it used to be called jeff's christmas hut,

but that didn't catch on.

(chuckling)

oh, sweetie, that's so pretty.

You could put that on your charm bracelet.

Chloe: Oh, that's okay.

I don't wear that anymore.

Uh, can I help you find something else?

A candy cane, perhaps?

Or, ooh, better - this candy cane.

Right? Beautiful.

Locally made. No, wait. Better... Artisanal.

Which is another word for expensive.

As freakishly large candy canes go, it's a bargain.

You're a really good salesman.

Thank you.

Not even my booth or my job.

I'm just filling in a friend's wife.

That's really nice of you.

It's how we do things around here.

Well, you seem to have a knack for it.

- Nailed it. - Nailed it.

Wow, in st. Nick of time.

Oh! Yeah, there was a line in--

- too far? - Yeah.

- Man: Okay.

Sara: You just went right over that line.

- Man: I think it worked. - Sara: I thought it was funny.

Mom, chocolate.

Oh, um, I guess I'm going this way.

Have a merry christmas.

You too.

Ooh!

(man chuckling)

♪

wow. This is not how I pictured it.

It's beautiful.

Afternoon.

Welcome to carson ranch.

Thank you. I'm sara bradley, from mayer/hall.

I'm looking for travis carson.

Right name, wrong generation.

You're looking for my son travis jr.

And are you ms. Bradley's executive assistant?

No. Her daughter.

(chuckling) well, I'm glad to meet you both.

Well, let's find out where he is, huh?

Beautiful day. Much warmer than yesterday.

This place is incredible, mr. Carson.

Oh, call me "pops."

oh, hold tight. I'll get you some hot cocoa.

Wow.

Luckily, people in montana like serving warm beverages.

Okay, here you go.

- Both: Thank you. - (phone chiming)

yeah, junior's on his way back.

Hey, our head ranch hand j.T's daughter's about your age.

Uh, name's lexie.

I think she's out back helping with the horses.

Why don't I introduce you?

Okay.

Huh? Come on.

Why do you guys decorate the inside of a barn?

Well, the horses love christmas, too.

They like to pretend their reindeer.

Oh, lexie, there you are.

This is chloe.

Her mom's here doing some business with us.

Hi. Do you want to help me brush the horses?

I've actually never even pet a horse before.

It's easy. Come on. She's really gentle.

Go ahead.

Just touch her.

Do I just circle it or...?

- Yeah, circle. - Chloe: Okay.

Lexie: There you go, you got it.

- Chloe: Like this? - Lexie: Yeah.

Hi. Oh, he's so calm.

(phone vibrating)

oh, I have to take this.

Hi.

Hi.

So, this is where you really work.

Yes, my career in christmas novelties was short but sweet.

Uh...

What are you doing here?

Oh, I'm meeting with travis carson.

He's expecting me. I'm sara bradley.

Oh.

Travis carson.

Really?

Yeah. What were you expecting?

A gigantic belt buckle and a lasso?

Of course not.

Oh, let me help.

Oh, thank you.

So, I-I just want to say up front

that we are on the same team.

Okay? We, uh-- ooh.

We both want you to get that loan approved.

You know that, right?

And I just want to say that peter's recommendations

to cut labor are a non-starter.

Those men are my family.

Well, that's why I'm here...

To help you find a different way

to get out the numbers you need to show the bank.

And if you can't?

I will.

You know what? I just came over to say hello

before we start tomorrow.

I probably should get back to the inn and get some rest.

Of course.

Okay.

(sighing)

looks good.

Lexie: There you go. I think she likes it.

How'd it go?

Oh, it's so fun.

It's way better working with a friend.

Thanks for inviting me to help.

Oh, chloe, this is travis carson jr.

Hello.

The knickknack guy.

I'm actually a rancher guy.

And, if I may...

...This is my horse rustler.

He's as gentle as they come.

Sorry, I'm still not really used to horses.

(chuckling) that's okay.

Here's a funny thing about rustler -

he loves christmas music, he does.

(humming "jingle bells") there he is.

Here, give it a try.

Oh, no, it's okay.

Come on. ♪ jingle bells, jingle... ♪

♪ bells, jingle all the way ♪

- (whinnying) - there you go.

Good job, buddy.

You have a real way with animals.

You wanna help with the chicks in the back barn?

Can we go right now?

Uh, we should be getting back.

Oh, yeah, you gotta get back before rush hour.

Rush hour?

No. Just some cattle crossing the road.

So, did you have fun today?

I guess.

What do you mean you guess?

It was okay.

You don't want to admit

that I was right about montana being an adventure.

So, does that mean

you don't want to go back to the ranch with me tomorrow?

I didn't say that.

Hey.

They don't all have to be white lights, you know.

Well, that's the way mom always used to do it.

That doesn't mean it's set in stone.

Nothing really is.

We still talking about the lights,

or we talking about how I run the ranch?

Something has to give, son.

I know it's not your fault that we're in this pinch.

Everyone's trying to recover from the drought.

But... We really need that second loan, you know?

Yeah.

I know it's tough being the bad guy.

But if it's a decision between

laying people off and losing everything--

no, we're not laying anyone off.

I'd prefer to sell part of the land.

Okay then.

Okay.

Can't hurt to hear sara's ideas.

And then, you're gonna have to make a tough choice,

just like you did when you moved back here.

Ah, that wasn't a tough choice.

I only moved away because I wanted to try

something completely different from this life.

(chuckling)

well, corporate law is just about as different as it gets.

(chuckling) yes, it is.

But after a while, I realized I not only left home,

I left who I was.

My only regret is not coming home sooner,

so I could spend more time with mom.

Now, there's nothing you could've done for mom back then.

And now, you're keeping her christmas traditions

alive and well.

But son, this ranch is running on fumes.

You gotta make some changes or accept the fact

that this could be the last christmas we spend here.

(sighing) see?

Sometimes changing things up...

Makes what you already have better.

The lights are a metaphor.

Oh, I get it, dad.

And, uh, I hear you.

I know you do.

(horn honking)

(car door closing)

morning.

Morning.

Pops said it was okay if I brought chloe

because lexie's here.

Yeah, that's fine.

Uh, she's around back with the chickens.

Do they like christmas carols, too?

They're more into classic rock.

Have fun.

Look, I meant everything that I said yesterday.

But, uh...

I suppose I need to let you do your job.

I talked some sense into him.

I owe you one.

Well, come on, let's go in.

After you.

Your timing's perfect -

kay just dropped off some of her candy cane cocoa.

Kay from the b&b?

Yeah, she's an old friend.

She's always bringing by her home cooking from the inn.

Wow. That's really nice of her.

Oh, people in town are always coming by here at christmas.

Kay comes over a little more often than most.

Have a seat. I'll get you some cocoa.

Oh, can I get that to go?

I'd really like to get started.

Can we go into your office and dig into the books?

Easy there.

You don't walk through someone's front door

and get straight to business.

You're on montana time.

What does that mean?

That means, here, we don't rush things,

especially at christmas.

We take our time to sit and chat and eat cookies

and drink candy cane cocoa.

Then, we start. Thank you.

Oh, is that a snowman-shaped marshmallow?

Yeah, kay makes them special for the bonfire

and she gives me any extras, of course.

So, do you sell the cocoa at the bonfire?

Of course not. They're friends.

Oh, and she dropped by some sausage rolls.

Or have you already tried them at the inn?

Actually, I'm a vegetarian.

Oh, well, we won't hold that against you.

I'll go see if the girls want some cocoa.

I'm really glad that chloe's found a friend.

It's not easy being an only child,

especially when it's just the two of us now.

Travis: I bet.

How 'bout you? Any kids?

Always wanted to, yeah.

Christmas with my parents

was probably the best time of my life.

But, uh...

Sometimes things don't work out the way that you planned.

Yeah, chloe and I know that firsthand.

The other thing I know is that we have a lot of work to do.

Wow. That was a terrible segue.

- Wasn't it? - Mm-hmm.

But seriously,

I'd like to start by digging into last year's cash flow.

Have you finished your cocoa?

No.

You know the rules.

You're not going to make this easy, are you?

Nothing worth doing ever is.

Fine.

Ready?

I reckon I am.

Great. Let's get started.

This way.

(horse whinnying)

is this your office?

No, this is a barn. (chuckling)

I just wanted to give you a little tour

before you bury yourself in the numbers.

The ranch is about a lot more than just what's on paper.

This is beautiful. How old is it?

About 150 years.

Sara: So, what do you do with it at christmas?

We host the annual christmas potluck,

and until then, it's usually storage.

I hate to tell you this, but you've been robbed.

Well, we haven't set it up yet.

We have eight days until christmas eve,

and by then, this entire barn

is gonna be a christmas wonderland.

Everybody pitches in

to set up the tables, and the centerpieces,

and even a stage for musicians.

That sounds expensive.

So, what's the overhead on this dinner?

Zero. Everybody pitches in.

Have you ever considered renting this place out

for weddings or special events?

That's not what this place is for.

Could be.

Ahh...

Wow.

Right? My mom collected these

over all the years our family hosted the christmas potluck.

When she passed, I promised her that I would keep it going.

I do hope this isn't the last one.

I've already thought of a couple of ways to cut costs.

Well, if those ways involve our christmas traditions,

you can forget it.

I would never ask anyone to give up christmas

isn't that what you're doing?

I'm doing my job, and I'm gonna need your help.

And you'll get it...

...Right after I do my job.

Are you going all the way up there?

Well, unless you want to.

Maybe you could have one of the ranch hands do it

and we could go back to your office.

Oh, they're out getting feed,

or moving the cattle, making sure the pipes are flowing...

What are you writing down?

This is just valuable information

about your day-to-day operations.

Well, outside of christmas, on any given day,

I'd be working right alongside them.

Okay.

You write that down. That's important.

That's a cowboy's worth ethic.

You wouldn't ask anyone to do anything

you wouldn't do yourself.

Got it.

What?

Just seems like a waste of perfectly nice garland

to put it all the way up in the rafters.

Oh. Well, what do you suggest?

Well, a few years ago,

we did this zig-zag with garland

to look like a christmas tree all the way up the wall.

We threaded in some lights

and we put a star on top. It was really beautiful.

Okay. That sounds interesting. You have any pictures?

Um, I don't know, that's going back a while.

We've tried to keep christmas pretty low-key

since my husband passed away.

Oh. I... Didn't know.

I'm sorry. How long ago was it?

Four years.

Sometimes it seems like a lifetime

and sometimes it seems like just yesterday.

If this is too hard, we can go back to the office

and do what you need to get done.

No, I'm okay.

Let's do that tree.

Okay.

Right.

Um, actually...

So, garland...

...This would be perfect.

Yep, okay.

This is not gonna take any time at all.

Oh my gosh.

Hey, what do you think about this?

That's a great call.

We can do, like, you know, on your back.

I'm excited about just getting going, so...

I think you're low-key about it.

I'm fired up.

Okay. Good.

Whoa! I'm fine.

I can see that.

And you will be, too.

Thank you. I mean, this ranch

means the world to my family and me.

I can see that.

Okay. You should do honors. Here you go.

Okay.

You were right.

It looks amazing. Thank you.

You're welcome.

And now there's plenty of time to go over your expenses.

Wow. Wow.

You jumped back to work mode so fast, it gives me whiplash.

It's been a long time since I saw snow fall.

When was the last time it snowed in los angles?

Um, twenty years ago.

Snowed just enough to make everything white...

For about an hour.

Hopefully this'll stick around a little longer.

(sighing) let's go.

(sighing)

hey.

First time seeing snow, huh?

Unless you count the sledding hill

they made for the winter dance at school.

I don't count that, no.

But just wait.

When the snow covers everything in sight

and the christmas lights reflect off of it...

In that one, quiet moment,

the world is and new and perfect.

I like montana snow better.

Are these the marshmallows pops was talking about?

Chloe: Kay let me and lexie help.

And then, she taught us how to knit.

Wow! You have been busy!

What are you knitting?

A tiny little christmas scarf.

Sara: Kay, thank you for keeping her so busy.

I think I had more fun than they did.

Did you two get a lot done?

I'm just getting a feel for the place.

Well, in that case,

I hope you can stay for lunch in a couple hours.

Mom, can we stay?

Well, just as long as there's no talking business at the table.

Well, then, we're going to have to talk about it before lunch.

There's just enough time for me

to go through your most recent balance sheet.

(blowing raspberry)

oh, can I go visit the horses while you guys work?

Go ahead.

Can I go too?

Funny.

(chloe chuckling)

let's go.

Ranching is actually a lot more high-tech

than most people think.

With gps, I can see where every single head of cattle is

on a screen at one time.

This is not what I expected your office to look like.

One second.

How about now?

Yes. That's what was missing.

You know, I have never met anyone

as into christmas as you.

Making up for lost time.

I think when I left the ranch, I left christmas behind, too.

Where did you go?

Law school.

You're a lawyer?

Was, yeah. I was pretty good at it, too.

But it wasn't what I was looking for.

What were you looking for?

Something different.

I mean, haven't you ever wanted a change

just to see if that's where you were meant to be?

Not really.

The reason I'm up for a promotion

is because I stayed the course, I rose up through the ranks.

There's something to be said for stability.

Yes, there is, and I had that in new york.

But after a few years,

I just had to admit that I wasn't happy.

I missed everything single thing about this place,

especially at christmas.

You missed christmas in new york city,

the most christmassy place in the world?

It wasn't home.

Sometimes home is the hardest place to be at christmas.

Hmm.

Well, in that case,

I hope that someday you can bring christmas home again.

I'll show you our balance sheets.

Okay, anything on a green plate is vegetarian.

That is so thoughtful. Thank you.

Oh, thank kay - she put it together.

Amazing in the kitchen, this one.

Yeah, when kay's not around, things aren't quite as gourmet.

I don't know why I picture ranchers

eating beans out of a tin pot.

What? That is a cliché from a bad movie.

Son, remind me

what we had for supper last night?

Beans.

Straight out of the pot.

(all chuckling)

while you picture ranchers eating beans,

I picture people from la eating kale, like all the time.

Well, I guess we both have certain misconceptions.

Mom, you had kale chips on the plane.

- Shh... - (all laughing)

so, chloe, what do you think of the ranch so far?

Um, it's pretty cool.

Trust me. This is high praise.

You are here at the best time of the year.

Some of the fondest memories of my life

are from christmas on this ranch.

Me, too, dad.

(chuckling)

in fact, I get just as excited for christmas now

as I did when I was a kid.

When I was a kid,

I loved that moment of seeing the christmas tree all lit up,

christmas eve, right before santa came,

and I just wished that feeling could last forever.

I know exactly how you feel.

What about you, chloe?

What's your favorite christmas memory?

Um...

Just...Spending time with family.

That's my favorite part, too.

Travis: My absolutely favorite thing about christmas

is actually happening tonight,

it's the carson ranch christmas bonfire,

sort of a gigantic campout with family and friends,

and it's just... Joyful.

I hope you and chloe will join us.

You better save them

front row seats in front of the fire.

It's going to be in the low-20's tonight.

Oh, yeah, that's right.

You guys aren't equipped for this.

(sighing)

so, chloe, I don't think we have much choice.

Either with stay indoors

while I finish my work and we fly back to la,

or we go into town and we get ourselves some new coats.

I vote coats.

Well, the snow's coming down pretty hard. If you want,

I can give you a lift into town,

oh, you don't need to do that.

Have-- have you ever driven in the snow?

We barely drive in the rain.

(all laughing)

♪

I don't know about this coat.

Here, try this one.

Ooh.

How does anyone move around in these?

Ah, you figure it out.

I'm never taking it off.

Excellent.

Actually, I like it.

Feels like I'm wrapped in a thousand fuzzy blankets.

We'll take these.

So, back to the ranch?

Uh, no. We have one more errand to run.

Merry christmas.

Oh, merry christmas.

Merry christmas.

Merry christmas.

You can't possibly know all these people.

Oh, I don't. Don't know that guy.

Oh. No, wait. I do. Merry christmas, stan!

(chuckling)

all right, load up. You know what they say -

cold hands, cold head--

cold heart?

No. Just put it on or you'll be super cold.

Here you go. Merry christmas.

Oh. Oh, that's a hard pass.

You can't say no. It's a gift.

- Then, thank you. - You're welcome.

Oh...

Oh my goodness.

Oh. Oh, you're killing me.

I think it's awesome.

Thank you very much for this hat.

Oh, look what I found.

No way.

Turnaround is fair play.

Adorable.

- It's awful. - What about me?

- Thank you. - What about me?

Oh. Take this guy.

Oh, thank you.

Ooh, I actually look cute.

Travis: You do! That's disappointing.

(chuckling)

oh, that's horrifying.

- Truly. - It's the worst.

Oh, I actually really like these, though.

Oh, can I get them?

Cool. Yeah, we can get these.

- I'll get you some mittens. - Thank you.

Sweet.

Thank you.

Thank you.

Slow down!

Does she always walk so fast?

Yep. There's nothing she hates more than a stroll.

Not when there's so much to do.

I've been researching regenerative soil techniques,

modernization, and there's just a lot to think about.

You really do care, huh?

I told you I did.

Oh, we have one more thing to get.

Boots?

Boots.

Boots.

(chattering, cheering)

let's pass these around.

Oh, chloe, this is my mom and dad.

Hi, chloe.

Hi. It's great to meet you.

Yeah, you, too.

Let's go roast these.

Have fun.

You know, you could make a lot of extra income

by selling this, right?

That's not what christmas is about.

We're not gonna take money from my friends.

I get it.

What?

Why this is your favorite thing.

Everyone is just out celebrating.

Nobody's rushing, nobody's stressed.

It's like everyone pressed 'pause' for the night.

You can do it, too.

I can't seem to get out of fast forward.

Give it time. You'll figure it out.

I'm don't think we'll be here long enough.

Hi. Well, it's almost time for christmas carols.

So, what is your favorite?

Uh... I don't know.

We already did "jingle bells" with the horse.

So, maybe "deck the halls?"

done. That would've been my pick.

Travis.

Hey! Oh, hey.

Um, sara and chloe bradley,

this is my good friend stephen.

He runs the best restaurant in big fork.

Pleasure, ma'am.

Sara is the financial advisor from california.

Oh. Well, I could've guessed you weren't from around here.

How?

Uh...

New duds.

Travis, I can't believe you let me walk around

with that tag inside my jacket this whole time!

No, I didn't notice! I swear! I promise. I promise.

Do you want to go see the marshmallow roast?

I would love to.

Nice to meet you.

Stephen: Likewise.

Haven't seen that look in your eye

since you moved back from nyc.

Oh, stop.

I'm just saying, it's nice to see.

(sighing)

this is perfect.

It sure is.

♪ deck the halls with boughs of holly ♪

♪ fa la la la la, la la la la ♪

♪ 'tis the season to be jolly ♪

♪ fa la la la la, la la la la ♪

♪ don we now our gay apparel ♪

♪ fa la la la la, la la la la ♪

♪ troll the ancient yuletide carol ♪

♪ fa la la la la, la la la la ♪

(all laughing)

(sighing)

everything okay?

I'm just frustrated.

I thought, once I got here,

a solution for the ranch would just come to me.

It usually does.

Well, your first problem is

is there's nothing's quick big fork.

And the second is you should be at the ranch

for your inspiration, not here.

Now, go, get some sleep.

I'll drive you out in the morning.

That's so nice. Thank you.

Think nothing of it.

- Pops: Hey! - Sara: Hi!

Hello! Good morning!

Hey, pops.

So, how are you fixed for egg nog?

Running a little low.

Any chance you could find some time to whip up another batch?

Kay: Well, I can make time.

Hey, lexie.

Hey, chloe. I like your boots.

Thank you. They're new.

Would you girls like to help me with the egg nog?

- Yes! - Sure!

Okay, first, though, we need some eggs.

Uh, where you going?

Kitchen's that way.

Yeah, but the eggs are back there.

Oh, I don't think I could do that.

You were great with the horses.

The chickens are even easier. Come on.

Sara: Have fun.

(kay chuckling)

I'm just gonna have a look around the ranch.

(lowing)

(lowing)

(chuckling)

- woman: Hey. - Man: How you doing?

Hi.

(chattering)

wow, this place is coming along.

Yeah. Only four days till christmas eve.

Come on!

Hey! Snowball fights outside only.

And no sneak attacks.

Sorry, dad. Come on, guys.

Chloe: Hey!

Sorry about that, ma'am. Kids are on break.

Oh, j.T. Ryan - head ranch hand.

Sara bradley. Nice to meet you.

I better go give teddy some backup.

Would you do me a favor and help me unbox these plates?

Sure.

It's amazing to see the whole town enjoying your ranch.

That's what christmas is all about.

I can see that.

These are beautiful.

Thank you. Some of them were my mom's,

passed down from three generations before that.

I bet she'd be proud

to know that you're keeping up the tradition.

Yeah. You know, that's what I missed

when I was in new york.

It's the things that make christmas personal

are the things that you look forward to the most.

You know?

For me and chloe,

christmas just became something to get through

instead of something to celebrate.

Have you ever spoken to her about how things used to be?

I've tried. It just gets her upset.

I'm sorry.

That's none of my business.

I just know how healing it was for me

to keep my mother's traditions alive,

especially not being able to get back when she was sick...

And then everything happened so... Quickly

I wasn't ready.

I don't think anybody is.

Your whole life changes in an instant.

That's true.

And the way my parents loved each other, I mean,

that's how I pictured christmas was gonna be with family.

I think you'll be a wonderful father someday.

You connect so easily to kids.

Thank you.

And chloe makes it easy. She's a great kid.

She is lighter here, more connected.

That's what's great about life here is connecting with people,

you know, sitting together, talking.

We take the time,

and enjoy the journey as much as the destination.

And I'm always too busy

finding my fastest way to the destination.

You are working hard to provide

a great life for chloe, and you're doing a great job.

Yeah. There's nothing more important to me.

She needs to know we're going to be okay.

She's lucky to have a mom like you.

(footsteps approaching)

(chuckling)

teddy turned on me.

(chuckling)

oh, I'll be back after the crew and I feed the stock.

Let me know if you need anything.

Will do.

(chuckling)

he's nice.

Yeah, he's like a brother to me.

His dad worked here, too, back in the day.

A lot of our ranch hands are second, even third generation.

I can see why peter's recommendations

weren't going to work.

I'm glad you understand.

I do.

- (bell ringing) - (cows lowing)

oh. Must be time to go.

Where?

Back to the house.

First rule of ranch life, never ignore the chow bell.

(chuckling)

hey. We heard the bell. What's cooking?

Presenting chloe and lexie's secret--

both: Super secret.

--Super secret recipe egg nog.

There you go.

Thank you.

Thank you.

Oh, look, I put a cinnamon stick in, like dad used to.

You remember that?

I remember everything.

(phone ringing)

oh. Excuse me. Here.

Sure.

I get some, too.

Fair enough.

(all laughing)

I know, peter.

But it's different once you see it in person.

There are just a lot of moving parts to consider.

Well, if you can't come up with an alternate solution,

you need to help him do what he has to do.

Did you send me here to try to talk him into laying people off?

Well, of course not. I sent you there

because we're trying to help one of our oldest clients

hang onto his legacy.

But you only got three more left, sara.

At some point,

you're going to have to tell them the same thing I did.

I still have time. Bye.

Everything okay?

It will be.

I know there's a lot riding on all this for everyone.

Well, we appreciate you trying to find

a different way to make the loan happen.

Yeah, I'm doing my best.

It would be a lot easier if I didn't care so much...

...About the ranch, and your family, and the traditions.

I didn't expect that.

I didn't expect that either.

I've got an idea.

What?

Nothing clears the head like a long ride,

and at christmas time, it's even better.

You ever been on a horse?

Does sitting on a pony

walking around in a circle when you're five count?

No. No, it doesn't. But don't worry.

We'll find the right horse for you.

It's always good to match

a rider's personality with a horse.

Sara, this is liberty.

Smart as a whip, fiercely loyal

and has a heart of gold.

Hello.

Sara: Do I really have to wear this thing?

Yes. Safety first. Now, come on. I'll leg you up.

You'll what me up?

You use my hands as a stool, I give you a boost,

then you throw your other leg over the back of the horse.

Don't worry about it. I'll be right here.

- Okay. - Okay.

- Okay. - All right?

Yeah.

No, wait. Okay. Okay, okay.

- I'm right here. - All right.

You want to try that again?

Yeah. Yeah. I don't give up so easily.

Okay.

Okay.

Ready?

- Whoo! - Perfect!

- I did it. - Great job.

- Okay. - Great job! Oh!

Whoa, whoa, whoa.

You just-- you squeezed your legs together a little.

- To her, that means "go." - okay.

Now, just use the reins, right?

Right, left - it's like driving a car.

All right. Oh, yeah. I got this.

- Okay. - Sara: I got it.

You're doing great.

(clicking tongue)

(horse whinnying)

(sighing contentedly) this is great.

You're a natural.

Oh, I didn't say go! I didn't do the leg thing!

Don't worry. You're going in the right direction.

I got your back.

♪

that was amazing.

It was fun, right?

Yeah.

You're a natural.

Thank you.

Thanks, luke.

Chloe: Mom! I've been taking photos.

You know how to ride a horse?

It was more like walking a horse, but I suppose, yes.

You want to learn how?

So, we could go riding together someday?

I would love that.

Hey, neil. Hey, kids. Merry christmas.

Merry christmas, and thanks again.

Our pleasure.

Oh, that's the hayes family.

They get their tree from us every year.

Hmm. I'll see you guys at the house.

- See ya, sweetie. - Okay.

You didn't mention you were running a christmas tree lot.

Well, we aren't.

But I invite people to get their trees from us every year.

And you don't charge for that.

Well, no. That'd be like me charging you

for riding lessons.

I mean, I realize it's not a huge income stream,

but every little bit helps.

Well, tell you what,

if you come up with us to get our tree tonight,

I will charge you for the honor.

You're joking, but you're actually onto something.

Am I?

So, why do you wait so long to cut down your tree?

Well, my dad couldn't take any time off work

until a couple days before christmas,

so we'd save up all the decorating until then.

And I guess it just became a tradition.

Seems like everything around here becomes a tradition.

Well, when you find something special,

you try to keep it around.

(sara exhaling deeply)

oh, it's beautiful out here.

I mean, it's like a snow globe come to life.

It's like what everyone thinks christmas should look like.

Merry christmas!

How can you do this every year without losing all your trees?

Well, we plant two for every one that someone takes.

I mean, that's what ranching is, it's cyclical,

everything has a time and a place,

and everything we do now matters for the future.

Come on, come on. Less talking, more looking

okay.

(chuckling)

how 'bout that one?

Ehh. It's a good charlie brown christmas tree.

Or how 'bout that one?

We'll find one for you.

This is the one.

That's a great one. You've got a good eye.

Here you go.

You want me to do it?

It's all a part of the christmas in montana experience, yeah.

I suppose it is.

Okay.

Come on, mom, let's do it.

Okay. Just watch out, sweetie.

I'll get that bottom branches first.

All right.

Okay.

Okay, let 'er go.

Three, two, one!

Timber! Whoo!

(laughing)

all right, let's get 'er home.

All right.

Travis: Nice cut.

- You just did that. - I know!

I didn't see that. Oh, should we help you?

- Sure. - Okay.

Come on.

Grab an end. Let's go.

This is heavier than I thought.

Chloe: Oh, yeah, it totally is.

You're doing great.

Oh my gosh. That's really heavy.

Kay: You know, why don't you put that one right there?

I think that'll look nice.

Every member of the family, going back for generations,

has an ornament with their name on it,

and they all go on the tree.

Including friends who become family.

(gasping)

I have the perfect place for it.

Kay: Thank you.

It's a beautiful tradition.

And now, you're a part of it, too.

Thank you.

Around here, when people help each other,

they become family.

We know you're doing everything you can to help us.

Well, you've helped us, too,

more than you know.

I wish dad could see this.

He can.

Wow, it's so pretty.

Oh...

Here you go.

Thank you.

(sighing)

it's freezing out here. Don't you want to go inside?

I actually like the cold - it helps me think.

Who knew?

I did, of course.

This place is incredible.

I've never seen christmas brought to life like this.

I'd like to think

it's all about who you experience it with.

Well, I'm glad it's with you.

And your family, of course.

Of course.

Did you pay someone to do that?

(chuckling) it's the ursids meteor shower.

It's peaking tonight.

I thought it was gonna be cloudy,

but it's clear as can be.

It's amazing.

Do you think chloe'd like to see this?

I'll go get her.

I have never seen a meteor shower before.

All the city lights get in the way?

That, and I was never patient enough.

Oh, there's a big one right there. Make a wish.

♪

♪

pops: Hey, thanks for doing the dishes, guys.

It's literally the least I could do after such a wonderful day.

Aww.

Look at her.

After kay left, she put her head down

and fell asleep in, like, ten seconds.

I love how tired she is at the end of a day on the ranch,

and she's never seemed happier.

It's funny, that's what she said the same thing about you.

Hey, chlo', you ready to go back to the inn?

No.

I think she's down for the count.

Yeah. So, just stay.

You can take the extra couch.

We got plenty of blankets.

And in the morning, we can have a big breakfast.

- And then... - Both: We can get to work.

Oh, beat you to it that time.

♪

do you have everything you need?

I think so.

Okay, well, just in case.

It gets cold.

Thank you.

Sure.

Night.

Good night.

♪

I was hoping you were gonna be here this morning.

Well, you can't have breakfast

without my famous cinnamon rolls, now, can you?

No, we cannot!

(chuckling)

okay, let's dig in.

Hey!

What? They're delicious.

Well, don't tell anyone, they're from a can.

What?

No way.

Okay, they're homemade.

(all laughing)

kay: I just didn't want your dad to overdo it.

Hey, I'll skip lunch.

(all laughing)

so, did you sleep okay?

Better than I have in a long time.

You know, as long as a carson owns this ranch,

you have an invitation for breakfast anytime.

I better get back to the b&b soon,

so I can make sure a carson does own this ranch,

now and in the future.

But can we at least stop

at the christmas market on the way back?

Yeah, sure.

♪

chloe: Thanks for taking me, mom.

I wanted to pick up some more yarn for my scarf.

A lot of yarn.

I really like this color,

but it's cashmere, so it's really expensive.

- I got you. - Actually?

Mm-hmm.

Thank you.

Here you go.

That scarf is going to be beautiful.

Thank you. Do you want me to teach you how to make one?

I mean, I know you have to work, so...

Um, I will...

After you teach me to knit.

Okay.

Um, so, this is the eighth row on my christmas scarf,

and basically, all you have to do

is take that...

And then do that.

Here, you try it.

Okay.

Well, do you want me to help you?

Yes, please.

Okay. So, put the needle through the loop.

Mm-hmm.

- Grab the yarn. - Yep.

Pull it through.

- Yep. - Under stitch.

Slide it off.

Yeah! You just did one stitch.

I'm exhausted.

(chuckling)

mom?

This is the best christmas we've had since dad died.

I think so, too.

And do we really have to leave on the 23rd?

I mean, that's the deadline. After that, my work is done.

Well, can't we just stay for christmas?

(sighing)

sweetie, we can't invite ourselves

to someone else's christmas,

no matter how much we want to be there.

And if my recommendation is the same as peter's,

I doubt I'll be welcome anyway.

Right.

Okay, show me one more time.

- Okay. - So, through?

Yep. Yep.

- Oh, there it is. - Mm-hmm, and then let go.

- Let go? - Yep. Just pull it like that.

- Oh, slide it. - Yep.

- Ah. You said "let go." - okay, well, slide it.

If I let go, I just drop it.

♪

midnight snack?

Kay's fruitcake.

I can't get enough of this stuff.

Well, no one can say that you haven't embraced

the christmas spirit here.

You have, too.

You know, as a matter of fact, I have.

Oh...

Mm-hmm.

Where did you get those?

In the markets.

I figured, when in montana...

I love them. Thank you, mom.

(phone ringing)

hi, peter.

Apologies for the late call.

I'm, uh-- I'm just concerned.

Don't worry. You'll have the report first thing tomorrow.

Actually, I'm more concerned about your methodology.

What do you mean?

Well, you know that my granddaughter

follows your daughter on social media, right?

Katie? Sure.

Yeah, they're been friendly since the company picnic.

I still am not following.

Well, katie and I went out to dinner tonight

and she showed me chloe's feed.

Now, don't get me wrong, I'm glad you're having fun.

But I don't know what to think when I see pictures of you

decorating a christmas tree,

on a horse, singing christmas carols by a bonfire.

I was just doing what you're always talking about -

putting people before profits.

Yes, that is what we try to do.

But in the end, the carsons are still gonna have to prove

they can afford this loan.

I'm looking at those pictures, and I'm wondering

whether they're running a cattle business

peter, what is the last possible minute I can send in my report?

They'll need time to review it upstairs, sara.

Noon tomorrow, that's the best I can do.

That's all I need.

What happened?

You know how much it bugs me

when you post pictures of absolutely everything we do.

Mm-hmm.

Your doing that might have just saved this ranch.

What? How?

I'll explain later.

But right now, you need to get some sleep

and I need to get to work.

Okay.

♪

I think you singlehandedly drank

all the coffee I had in the entire inn.

I'm sorry. I just have to keep going.

I-I think I found the solution for the ranch.

That's wonderful news!

Well, I still have to convince travis

and the bank to agree to my proposal.

May I see?

I can't believe nobody's thought of doing this before.

Sometimes it takes an outsider

to see things from a different angle.

You're no outsider now.

In fact, I'd say that you're closer to travis carson

than anyone since he brought that fiancée back from new york.

He was engaged?

Only until the young lady realized

she wasn't marrying a lawyer, she was marrying a rancher.

He hasn't been with anyone since.

- Really? - Mm-hmm.

I would have thought he was

big fork's most eligible bachelor.

Everyone here knew his heart was closed.

Until now.

I better go wake chloe up and get over there.

I can't wait to show this to travis.

(cows lowing)

well, I was hoping it wouldn't come to this.

Well, unless sara has some other recommendations,

this is the only answer.

Are you sure?

No, and I hate to part of our land,

but it's better than losing the people we love.

Both: I need to talk to you.

I'll leave you two. Sara.

Please, let me go first.

I'm gonna sell two thousand acres.

What? But that's ten percent of your property.

I know, but this way, we won't need the loan at all.

Maybe not this year, but what about the future?

What if there's another drought?

This is what we have to do now.

But if you listen to what I have to say, you might never have to.

Okay. What are you talking about?

It finally hit me.

This was never going to work if we focus on cutting costs.

It's about adding profitability year in and year out

by monetizing everything you're already doing for christmas.

Oh, we already talked about this.

That is not what this ranch is about.

I'm not gonna charge my family and friends.

No, you don't need to.

This is about the people who would travel here

to find that classic,

old-fashioned, christmas they're longing for.

Just-just look at the proposal, okay?

- Okay. - Just let me show it to you.

All right.

("we wish you a merry christmas" playing)

♪

what do you think?

And you're sure there's a market for this?

I was up all night doing the research.

There are already a couple of ranches upstate doing this.

And look at what they charge per week.

Wow!

Now you see why I got so excited about the idea.

But who'd run it, though?

I mean, pops and I still have to run the ranch.

Well, you'd have to hire a manager

and that is all laid out in this budget.

I also worked out a loan structure

so that you could get the initial funding to renovate.

Travis, "christmas at carson ranch"

is about giving people something they're missing -

a connection to christmas,

to family, to themselves.

I know that's what it did for me and chloe

and we will always be grateful.

I'm so glad we came here.

I am, too.

So, what do you think?

Do you want to move forward?

Definitely.

♪

everybody ready?

Uh, for what?

We still have to decorate the gingerbread houses

for the dessert table, of course.

Yeah, I'm not sure if it's the right time.

It's the perfect time.

I mean, we all need to do something

while we're waiting, right?

Can lexie come, too?

Of course. The more the merrier.

It'll help the time go faster.

Okay.

Hey, let's get started.

Sara: So, what do you think?

Well, it's gonna be fantastic.

I just hope it isn't the only version

of the christmas ranch we get to see.

I'm sure it's fine.

It's the 23rd.

I mean, that's the day of our deadline.

Shouldn't we have heard something by now?

Well, the underwriters have until end of business today.

I suppose, technically, they have as long as they want.

Wait, they can extend the deadline?

I guess if they can't decide by today, yes.

So, we can stay for christmas?

I mean, we can't leave

until we know for sure about the loan, right?

Chloe, they have their own traditions.

We don't want to impose.

Pops: You think you'd impose?

Part of our tradition

is having people we care about here with us -

family and friends old and new, and that's you.

It really wouldn't be the same without you.

In that case there's no place we'd rather be.

I guess we'll postpone our flights.

Great.

♪

(sighing)

(phone ringing)

hello?

Hi. Okay.

Okay.

Okay. Thank you. I'll tell them.

(sighing)

the carson christmas ranch...

Is officially in business!

Yes!

We got the loan?

- You got the loan! - We got the loan! Oh!

You did it!

No, we did it!

We should celebrate.

What did you have in mind?

Well, actually, stephen is having a little,

you know, party at his restaurant,

kind of a christmas eve-eve tradition.

Maybe-- maybe we should go.

Uh, chloe's welcome too, of course. You all are.

What do you think, chloe?

Mom, lexie invited me

to go christmas caroling with her friends from school.

Her parents are chaperoning us.

That sounds like fun.

So, it's okay if I go?

Of course you can.

Kay and I could drop chloe off and then kay would be at the b&b

to watch her when she came back. Okay?

Mm-hmm.

Okay.

Then, that leaves us the two of us.

I guess so.

Well, I'm so thrilled for you, travis.

Yeah? About the christmas ranch?

Yes, but that's not what I was talking about.

By the way, um...

I'm really glad you've been coming around more often.

Oh. Because of all the food that I bring?

Yes... But that's not what I'm talking about.

Oh... (chuckling)

♪

you look beautiful.

You look great, too.

Thank you.

But I thought you'd be wearing a bolo tie.

A bolo? No. I only wear those on days that end in "never."

big fork really knows how to celebrate christmas.

That's how we do things around here -

go big or go home.

I don't know how anyone leaves this place.

Oh, they do.

But if they have any montana is in their soul,

they always find their way back.

Like you did from new york?

Yeah. Yeah, I didn't realize how good I had it until I left.

Sometimes you don't where you belong until you get there

and then it all becomes so clear.

Exactly.

Real glad to see you two.

Now, order whatever you like.

It's on the house.

Thank you.

(sighing)

(clearing throat)

oh.

It helps to be good friends with the chef.

Roasted tofu with quinoa, peaches and fennel. Wow.

Is that a good wow or, like... (unenthusiastically:) "wow."

that's a great "wow." thank you for doing that for me.

Well, you jumped into the montana life with both feet.

I figured the least I could do

is try a little bit of california.

What?

If you had asked me a month ago

where I would be on christmas eve-eve,

my answer definitely would not have been

"having a candlelight vegetarian dinner

"with a cattle rancher from big fork, montana."

really? 'cause that's what my answer would have been.

(both laughing)

ahh. That was really good.

Yeah, I thought I was going to have to sneak

a second supper on my the home.

(piano playing lightly)

would you like to dance?

I would love to.

Okay.

(piano playing lightly)

♪

did you want to go for a stroll?

I'd love to.

Okay. You know that "stroll" means "walking slowly," right?

I'll do my best.

Okay.

I think this is the first time

we've ever walked at the same pace.

Yeah. Congratulations.

I think you're finally on montana time.

Have I thanked you already for saving our ranch?

Yes, numerous times.

Good.

Have I thanked you for reminding me

what it feels like...

To fall head over heels for someone?

No.

(sighing)

I feel the same way.

But?

Maybe that's why we shouldn't stay.

Why not?

I mean, we have to leave right after christmas.

And... And then what happens?

How does this work?

I don't know.

I don't, but we'll figure it out.

No, travis.

This is your life. This is your home.

I have a daughter at school in los angles.

I have a job. I have security. I cannot give that up.

I'm sorry.

I understand.

I better get back to chloe.

I don't want to leave.

We should be going to christmas eve dinner tonight,

not the airport.

Chloe, I know you're upset, but if we stayed,

it would just make things harder.

It's already hard.

Everything was better here, mom.

We were better.

You know it, and I know it.

This is how christmas used to be.

You never talk about dad at christmas.

We barely talk about anything,

not until we got here.

I know, and that's my fault.

I guess I thought I was protecting you.

I was just trying to keep you from any more pain.

I was doing the same thing.

That's the best thing about this place, wasn't it?

People slow down, they talk, they share.

Like right now.

Just like right now.

I still miss dad.

I know.

So do I.

I have something for you.

I was going to wait until christmas,

but I want you to have it now.

It's for the christmas charm bracelet

daddy gave you when you were little.

I know that you don't have it with you, but I thought...

I thought maybe that you'd want to wear it again someday.

I have it.

I always have it.

I just....

Didn't want to wear it again...

Not until right now.

Thank you so much, mom.

Merry christmas.

Merry christmas, sweetie. I love you.

I love you, too.

♪

(cow lowing)

I know what you're gonna say.

And what's that?

That I shouldn't have let her go,

that I was just too scared to ask her to stay,

that I was worried that it was turn out

the same way it did with elizabeth,

that I made the biggest mistake of my life.

Yep. Pretty much.

Thanks for saving me the trouble.

She has a career, dad.

She has a life in california. How's that gonna work?

You make her know it in her heart

that it's at least worth trying.

And then you find a way,

even if it means moving heaven and earth to do it.

Well, it's too late now.

Maybe not.

Kay just told me they're still at the b&b.

For how long?

At least another fifteen minutes.

What if she doesn't want to stay?

What if she does?

Can you handle things here if I go?

Of course I can,

and I'll have kay to help me.

Dad, about kay--

I know what you're going to say.

All I'm gonna say

is that if I'm putting it out there,

you should, too.

Deal.

Chloe, honey, let's go upstairs,

make sure you didn't forget anything.

Oh, but just for a minute. The cab's almost here

okay.

Hi.

Hi.

Is there something wrong with the paperwork for the loan?

No.

No, nothing's wrong the paperwork.

Okay. (exhaling sharply)

but there's everything wrong with you leaving.

Travis, we talked about this.

The longer we stay, the harder it'll be to leave,

and I know if I spend just one christmas with you,

I will never want to leave again.

Then stay...

For this christmas and every christmas after that.

There's too much to lose. I have to protect chloe.

Well, you said she's never been happier

and that you and she have never been closer.

It's true.

So?

Isn't that what she needs?

Isn't that what everyone needs?

Anyway, uh...

You can't leave.

Around here, we finish what we started.

What do you mean?

Obviously, I'm gonna need your help

to find someone to run the christmas ranch.

That could take some time.

I have a candidate in mind.

In fact, I can't imagine anyone running it but her.

I just have to convince her to take a leap of faith.

You just did.

I really don't want to leave.

I really can't imagine doing this without you.

(footsteps approaching)

what's going on?

We were wondering if...

You'd like to stay through christmas.

(chuckling)

is that a yes?

I think that's a yes from both of us.

♪

I'm going to go tell lexie!

Woman: You made it!

Hi!

I'm staying for christmas!

(chattering indistinctly)

I can't stop thinking about how close we came

to missing all this.

Oh, you don't have to. You're here now.

You're home.

Does it get any more perfect than this?

Actually... Yes.

♪

merry christmas, dad.

Merry christmas, son.

You made it.

Merry christmas, sara.

Merry christmas.

Come on.

♪