All language subtitles for Adventures.In.Love.And.Birding.2025.1080P.eng

[♪♪♪]

[birds singing]

[♪♪♪]

[hedger buzzing]

[chirping]

[cheeping]

[shouting over hedger] Hi!

Excuse me! Good morning!

Um! Excuse me? Hello?

Hello!

-Hi!
-[hedger stops]

Did you say something?

Yes. Hi. Uh, this tree--

it was not
supposed to be trimmed,

'cause there's a bird's nest
in it, right here,

and the little chicks,
they shouldn't

have to fly the nest
before they're ready.

So, you want me to leave it?

That would be great.

Thank you.

[relieved sigh]

Good morning, little birdies!

♪ Good morning! ♪

It's time to get up...

[curtain swishes]

Oh, no! Turn off the lights.

[laughs]
It's the sun, Morgan,

and believe me,
I wish I had that kind of power.

Our mornings
would go much smoother.

Come on,
once college starts,

you won't be able
to catch a ride

with your super-cool mom.

You mean my incredibly-strict
former English teacher?

Hey!

You are the one who asked to use
the art room this summer

to finish your Junior
Art Collective project,

and "your former
English teacher"

got you permission, remember?

How's that going,
by the way?

I still have a few weeks
to figure it out.

Okay, well...

riding or biking?
I can't be late.

I don't need
to give my co-workers

another reason
to whisper behind my back.

Fine, I'm up!

But your co-workers
need to get a life.

They mean well--
you know that.

Well, some of them.

Rise and shine!
We're leaving in 20.

[♪♪♪]

[♪♪♪]

Oh! Looks like
someone's slacking on the job.

Says the man
who rolls in at 10:35 A.M.

Oh, is it that early?

But, wow,

you're looking
very refreshed, Chris.

[chuckles]
Thank you, John.

It is the beauty
of senior management--

something you would know about

if you would take my advice
and apply!

Come on,
give it a shot.

I could use your Ph.D.
on my team.

I never got
my Ph.D., remember?

Yes, I do. Sorry.

-We had that conversation.
-Yeah. Sore spot, sorry.

-Yeah.
-Your expertise, then.

And give up on the dream?

You mean

birding against your ex to win
some local bird-a-thon trophy?

Is that the dream?
'Cause, yeah.

Okay, well, my ex aside--

the big dream is to win...

so I can...

get the prestige push.

Oh, "prestige". Yeah.

Do you mean press?

-Well, yeah, that too.
-Mm.

So I can start
my own guiding business.

[sighs]
You're obsessed.

Look, I know it's hard
for you to understand,

but I gotta give it
one last shot.

Otherwise... [sighs deeply]

...I'm all-in...

...here.

Guess I gotta be all-in
somewhere, right?

I can't
keep straddling both.

All right, James Bond,

if you complete your mission,
then great--

get after it,

but if you don't,

I'm coming after you.

You fact-checked me,
didn't you?

Yeah. Google confirmed
your proclamation

that the real James Bond
was, indeed, a birder.

Thank you very much!

Leave it to Ian Fleming
to make birding cool.

I wouldn't go that far.

[sighing]

But I am pulling for ya.

I appreciate it.

Back to work!

No favoritism here.

And this
is your final assignment

for the summer term...

so, I want you to pick a novel
that explores a complex theme.

It can be "the American Dream,"

social injustice,

the nature
of good-versus-evil.

It's up to you,

but whatever you choose,

I want it
to spark something.

Speak to this next chapter--
your next chapter in life.

Basically, just let it be
more than an assignment, okay?

-[bell ringing]
-And have a great weekend!

It is gorgeous out there!

Bye.

Great work on that project.

Bye, guys.

[sighs]

[gasps] Hey, you!

Pizza Friday--
I was thinking

we could bring back the Hawaiian
for old times' sake--

what do you say?

I'm going to the movies
with some friends, remember?

I do not remember
you saying that.

Sorry. I thought I did.

They're picking me up
from here.

We're going shopping
and then to the movies.

No, but that's okay.

Don't worry.

I just have barely seen you
all week.

We live together.

You know what I mean--
but there's always tomorrow.

Just text me

so I know when you'll be
coming home, okay?

'Kay.

[♪♪♪]

-Celeste, wait up!
-Hi.

I was just talking about you--
or we were.

Yeah? Was it good or bad?

I was talking
to my cousin, Doug--

you remember Doug, right?

No, sorry. Should I?

But I'm pretty sure
I told you about him.

Not ringing any bells.

Well, he's also going through

a super-recent,
and really unfortunate,

divorce.

Mine wasn't that recent.

Yeah, but a year
isn't that long either--

especially when they say

it takes twice as long
to get over someone--

or is it half the time?

Considering we were
together for 22 years,

let's hope
it's the latter.

[giggles] Either way,
he wants to meet you.

Not before she meets
my BFF from college, Andrea.

Are you trying
to set up Alan-- again?

He is
a very successful dentist.

A little arrogant, sure,

but you didn't
respond to my text.

Oh! Oh. Layla, I'm so sorry.

I meant to.

I've just been very busy with--
you know.

-No.
-Just...

helping Morgan
get ready for college.

There's so many
decisions to make.

She's got
so many meal-plan options.

There's vegan, paleo, keto.

You'd be surprised
how many there-- oh!

Eva! There you are!

So sorry to keep you waiting.

What are you talking about?
You weren't.

You are so understanding.
I know we're already late.

We've gotta go,

but thank you
for thinking of me,

and, uh, we'll talk soon!

[hushed] Just keep walking!

-'Kay, bye!
-Text me!

I'll talk to you about Doug!

Alan.

[♪♪♪]

[indistinct cafe chatter]

Thanks for
the afternoon pick-me-up.

Thank
you

Ooh. I wish it was
more propositional than pitying,

this time.

And it's hard to say
which one I prefer.

I mean, the dentist--

just think
how white your teeth would be.

Very funny. You're lucky
you're my best friend.

I know!

So, what are
we doing this weekend?

Ooh...

Should we grab a drink,
or do yoga?

Unless you have plans?

My only plans
are to organize my garage.

What?

It really needs it!

Okay, no.

Love you, Celeste,

but you need to get out there,
like, now.

Please don't say "date."

I don't care
if it's speed-dating

or skydiving
or waterpainting--

you just need to get
out of the house,

and try something new,
and have some fun.

Organizing is fun!

No!

I do not accept that.

Fine, but what if I don't
remember what is anymore?

What's fun?

Yeah! I haven't asked myself
that question in decades.

[laughs] That's because

you're 100% focused
on your family unit.

And yet, Rick cheated anyway.

[fumes] You know how I feel
about that!

[Celeste]
It's a whole new chapter.

Yes! This is your time now.

You need to do
something a little crazy.

You know, just wake yourself up.
It's time--

-[phone reminder dings]
-...which is why-- oh.

Oh, no.
Oh, no-no-no-no-no-no-no!

I thought that was later.

What was later?

[gasps] The spa party--

which sounds like
it would be super-relaxing,

but it's actually
this really intense fundraiser

from my grandpa's
community center,

and I can't miss it.

Why would you miss it?

Birding.

You're... birding?

[laughs]

Why is that so unbelievable?

Just you! Like,

quiet, notebook, binoculars
kind of thing...

Well, I'm supposed to be,

as a favor
to this really nice guy

from my pickleball group.

It's an annual contest,

but, you know, now--
[phone rings]--

This is Eva.

Yes, I just got the reminder,

and I will absolutely be
at your fundraiser.

Do you mind
confirming our table?

Oh, sure, I'll hold.

Oh, I feel terrible.

Just get someone
to fill in for you.

I'm pretty sure
you're not a birding expert.

It's just for a day.

You should totally
take my spot!

Yeah. I think
they need to be paired up.

I don't know if it's, like,

an accountability thing
or something.

That is not what I meant.

Why would I do that?

You love birds and animals!

Oh, and my fr-- Hmm?

Yes, it's a table
reserved for a group.

It should be under "Mount Muir".

Yes.

My friend John
desperately needs a partner

because his girlfriend--

who's apparently this, like,

beautiful,
but cold-hearted genius

just cheated on him
with some professor,

and now those two are
birding together as a couple.

And I thought Rick was bad!

Yeah. Well, apparently,

"Breena and Lazlo"
are much worse,

which is why
I offered to step in,

but if you could do it...

Yep, that's correct!
There's ten of us.

But you're not trying
to set me up, right?

No. I'm pretty sure

you're both in
the romance-is-dead-to-me zone,

and I'm not sure that
he's over his ex, so, yeah, no.

He just can't enter alone,

and I was happy
to role-play for him until--

Yeah! Still here!

"Role-play"?
So you were gonna, what,

pretend to be his girlfriend
for the contest?

-Yes.
-Yes?

Uh, I know
it's a little unusual,

but you would be doing me
and John the biggest favor.

He is the sweetest guy.

A little quiet,

but, you know, still more fun
than organizing your garage.

It does sound like
he's in an awful position.

Would this count
as my "something crazy"?

[gasps] Yes! Absolutely.

Fine, then I'll do it.

Really?

Oh, you wanna go over
the auction items,

like, right now? Okay.

I gotta go.

I'm gonna have him text you
all of the information.

You're the best!

And, um, you know,
just have fun with it.

Mm-kay!

[astonished chuckle]

[deep breath]

Pretending to be
someone's girlfriend--

I've officially entered
my midlife crisis.

[♪♪♪]

[text alert chimes]

[whoosh]

[snap]

[whoosh]

[♪♪♪]

Hey.

[indistinct chatter]

Well, I know
you were deciding between

"Kingfisher", "Khanzodes",
and "Deducktions",

but I, for one, am glad
you went with the latter.

Plus, the team name fits
so much better.

[laughs] Thank you.

I definitely feel like there's
more activity this year.

Well, let's hope so,
for your sake.

You mean "ours"?

I already have tenure.

Well, I'm not sure

this competition
will get you there.

Not yet, but every win
is a resume boost.

Oh. Excuse me.

Hi. Hi there!

Hi. Am I in the right place
to check in?

Yes. Welcome.
I'm Linda Sanchez,

President of the NorCal
Ornithological Society.

And you are?

Celeste. I'm waiting
for my partner, John.

Keller?

Mm-hmm.

Oh! So i-is John competing
this year after all?

Yes. He should be here
any minute.

Oh, Breena,
too bad you're competing

against John this year.

This is Celeste--
John's new birding partner.

We'll be fine.
Nice to meet you.

Likewise. And we can
just say "partner".

You know,
in the general sense.

Just to simplify.
Just to cover all the bases.

-[chuckling]
-Celeste?

-Hi!
-Hey.

-You made it.
-Hi, sweetie!

-Ohh...
-Oh!

John!

It's so good
to see you.

Yeah, you too, Linda.

Um, let me
get your T-shirts.

Okay.

I wasn't sure
you'd be competing this year.

Well, I couldn't let you just
run away with it now, could I?

Wouldn't be fair...

even if a win would look good
towards your tenure goal.

I only want to win fairly.

I'm surprised to see that
you're already seeing someone.

Excuse me?

You're right--
none of my business.

It's okay.

We're just...

happy to compete.

John.

Lazlo.

[perky] Well, we should
probably go get our gear.

I'm a bit newer to birding,

so I wanna make sure
I have everything.

-Yeah.
-Of course.

Good luck.

Yeah. Y-You too.

Huh.

What was that?

Celeste Johansen--

your friendly fake date
to the rescue.

No?

That's not
what I'm here for?

You're here...
for a fake date?

[laughter]

So, wait, let me
get this straight--

Eva was gonna pretend
to be my girlfriend?

I love Eva!

She's so sweet.
She is helpful.

Up for anything.

And always trying to be
in a million places at once--

which is how
you got stuck with me.

I'm sorry for
the misunderstanding...

and Breena.

Oh, so you--
you heard the whole story?

Mm-hmm.

[sighs]

[laughs] I-I should be
the one apologizing to you.

You came all the way out here
on a Saturday morning,

you know, when you could've
been sleeping in--

[dreamily]
Or organizing my garage.

Either way, it's fine--

I get the whole
bad-breakup/betrayal thing.

I recently had one myself
after 22 years.

22 years? I'm-I'm sorry.

So is that-- is that why
you-you jumped in to help?

Maybe. Probably.
As absurd as that sounds.

It sounds... kind.

You don't have to do this,
you know.

This is--

I'm not gonna leave now!

Besides, I like birds.

I like the ones that fly,
make eggs...

Is that, uh, the extent
of your-your bird knowledge?

-Pretty much!
-Okay.

But I am a quick learner
and an eager student,

so take it or leave it.

I'll definitely take it.

[♪♪♪]

Do you come here often?

As a matter of fact, I do.

-[chuckling]
-It's beautiful.

-Pretty great spot, right?
-Mm-hmm.

There you two lovebirds are!

I feel like
these came out pretty well--

despite the long name.

"Patient Listening".
Is that our name?

You didn't know?

I-I wanted it to be a surprise.

Although, I thought that
you might've wanted to establish

something
a little bit more aggressive,

seeing as Spring Lake
Sporting Goods

is the sponsor this year.

The prize money is enough

to launch
your own birding business,

if that's the plan.

You want to start
your own birding business?

I feel like there's
a lot of surprises here.

You know, I just--

...I didn't want to put
too much pressure on Celeste.

-We're just here having fun.
-Are we?

Well, hopefully,
it'll be fun and successful.

[chuckles] Good luck!

-Thanks, Linda.
-Thank you.

So, this is bigger

than wanting to not lose face
in front of your ex?

Well, there's never been
a big corporate sponsor

like this before,

to give us more press,

or a five-figure prize.

How steep's the competition?

Every year, there's been
a lot of great teams,

but Breena and I have won it
the last three years in a row,

so it's definitely doable.

Okay, then.

[whack]

Okay! Yeah.

Good morning, everyone!

I am thrilled to welcome you all
here today

to kick off our annual contest--

the NorCal Ornithology
Bird-A-Thon!

-[applauding]
-Yay!

It's too much to ask.

No. Besides, we cannot
let the cheaters win.

To all of our new birders--
welcome!

And to our returning
competitors,

welcome back.

You're really up for it?

The birding...

the fake dating?

Apparently, I need to step out
of my comfort zone,

so here we are.

Yeah?

[Linda] ...the biggest
cash prize ever!

And so, it's with
immense excitement,

and gratitude
for your involvement--

I can do anything for one day.

[Linda]
...that I declare

our three-week Bird-A-Thon
officially underway.

[cheering]

I'm sorry--

did she just say
"three weeks"?

You still in?

[♪♪♪]

You're gonna love it.

[♪♪♪]

I need you to fill me in
on all the rules--

what to buy,
what to read.

I want to be
as prepared as possible.

Of course.
And you will be.

But, before we get
to any of that,

why don't you...

here.

Take a look, right there.

Okay?

Tell me what you see.

I see a tree.

That's a good start.

With leaves?

Okay, now look
between the leaves.

What do you see
between the leaves?

Nothing's out there.

Okay.

Okay, that's...

-[chuckles]
-...that's totally fine.

So far, we've seen what,
five birds?

And three of those birds
are the same as the first one--

the white-cap swallow.
-"The white-crowned sparrow."

-The white-crowned sparrow!
-Oh, yes.

Exactly!

But we're three minutes in,
we're already behind.

We're doing
a total bird-species count

over the next three weekends.

Anywhere?

Well, the greater Marin
and Sonoma County area,

which is not insignificant,
when it comes to habitats,

so...

we have time.

Then why is everyone
rushing around?

[indistinct exchange]

I'd say
they're just getting started.

You know, everyone comes
out of the gate differently.

I need to buy a guidebook

and some binoculars,

and maybe those pants
with the pockets.

Basically, all the gear.

Oh--

Hey! You just told me

your future is hanging
in the balance here.

It's-- That is dramatic!

[laughing]

I don't know if I said that,
exactly.

Teach me birding,
so we can get started.

Uh, yeah.

Fine. Yeah, okay.

You're gonna need these back.

All right.
So, uh, just...

scan...
to the left, slowly,

and then to the right...

and just look
in between the branches.

[♪♪♪]

[John] When I was a kid,

watching birds
was always about...

being outside,

discovering something.

That's where I felt connected...

grounded, safe.

Why? Were you shy?

Painfully.

But this helped.

With confidence?

Yeah, eventually,

you get to know one bird so well
that you can identify it easily,

or its song.

You know, it starts
with an initial curiosity,

and then it morphs
into something more...

powerful.

You know,
if I start guiding,

that's what I want
to convey to people--

that it's a quiet, but...

powerful hobby,
in a lot of ways.

So we just wait?

Contest or no contest--

we're doing this right.

We start with discovery,
and then we go from there.

You know...

don't worry
about the count today.

Just see the bird.

That sounds way more Zen
than I'm feeling right now.

[laughing]

Just be patient.
They're out there.

So what's your white whale?

You know, the one
you just haven't seen yet?

Wouldn't say my white whale,
necessarily, but...

I really want to see
a spotted owl.

Ooh!

Yeah. They're
an endangered species,

so rare

that almost nobody outside
of the most dedicated birders

have seen them
in the wild.

Mm. No spotted owls.

Well, today,
we are going to see herons...

egrets, ducks.

[Celeste]
Oh! There's one.

[John] Oh, yeah. Look at that.

Some kind of heron.

Yeah,
that's a great blue heron.

[shutter snaps]

Wow.

Look right there.

"Snowy egret".

[shrieks] Oh, I see him!

Okay, all right.

Now-Now you're just
scaring the birds.

Sorry! Right. Of course.

Quiet coyote.
Very quiet.

[Celeste laughs]

[Celeste] "Fake date"?

Are you kidding me?

How did I get that
out of the conversation?

I am still trying
to work that out as well.

I mean, I know him,
but not that well.

Although, you did say "yes"

when I asked you
if that's what it was.

I don't recall that!
And clearly, I didn't mean it--

or sticking you
with a three-week competition.

I was gonna tag you out.

Oh, that ship--
that has sailed.

I have now not only
stepped out of my comfort zone,

I'm on a rocket ship to the moon
with this fake date,

who's, unfortunately,
not unattractive,

and you're right--
he's still hung up on his ex.

So, yay.

-Cheers!
-Cheers!

Hey, Mom, what is this?

Oh! Are you ready for this?

I don't know.

[gasping]
♪ My new bucket hat! ♪

I love!

[Celeste]
Birdhouse with camera.

Outdoor vest with pockets?

-Mom...
-You can borrow it!

-I'll pass.
-[laughter]

Oh, wow!
My brand-new binoculars!

Oh, yeah.

What do you guys think?

Super-nerdy, guys,
but have at it!

Hey, I made lasagna.

Oh, thanks,
but I already ate.

Hmm.

[hushed] I don't get it!
We have always bonded over food.

That's our thing.

And she's gonna be
away at V.A.U.

in just a matter of weeks,

and I thought we'd be spending
more time together.

Why does everything feel so off?

I mean, that's the thing,
though, with kids.

What's "the thing"?

They need to torch the house
so they can leave it.

I mean, it makes sense.

Otherwise, how would
you leave all of this?

That's a real dark analogy.

And one of the many reasons
that Nathan and I

have adopted fur-babies.

So they'd never leave?

They can't light a match.

[laughing]

[♪♪♪]

Hey.

Told you the files

were not too big or too heavy
to bring over.

Well, I could've
picked them up myself.

Gave me a chance
to get a lunchtime walk in.

I never did get those dividers.

But you're still trying to get

your guiding business
off the ground.

It takes more than passion
to succeed.

Well, winning the competition
would help.

How do you feel
about your chances?

You mean without
having you as my partner?

We won the last three years
in a row for a reason,

because we're both
great birders.

I'm just wondering what your
new partner's credentials are.

We'll be fine.

Good.

Well, if you find
you're missing anything else,

let me know,
I'm happy to bring it over.

Yeah, I think, uh...

I think this is
the last of it.

Thank you.

Okay.

Well, may the best birder win.

[♪♪♪]

I should be home
in about 20 minutes.

I just got a call
from the office

to pick something up,

and then I'm out.

Okay, I'll see you soon.

[chuckles]

Thank you!
What in the world?

"I appreciate your enthusiasm

and just wanted
to say thank you."

[chuckles]

The rumor mill is on fire!

Are you seeing somebody?

Is that why
you've been avoiding us?

Is that what those are?

I'm not avoiding you.

That's not a "no".

But, yes! Yep!

I sure am.

You were right!

I usually am.

But my cousin
will be devastated.

I've never met him.
I think he'll be okay.

That's beside the point.

You have to bring him.

Who?

Your new boyfriend!

Oh, it's-it's still
the early days.

Which is exactly
why we need to meet him.

Test the roll cage.

Don't wanna waste time
if he's not solid.

Mm-hmm.

-So, you'll bring him?
-I will try.

To what?

The bowling fundraiser--

staff versus parents?

Remember?
It's Friday night.

Oh, right... bowling.

Uh, yeah, sure.
I'll just see if he's free.

Please!

You've just started dating--
of course he's free.

Right?

Right.

Yeah, I'm just gonna...

He's so thoughtful.

[chuckles awkwardly]
Yeah.

[Celeste]
"Then I will not repine,

Knowing that bird of mine,
though flown,

shall, in a distant tree,

bright melody for me

return."

Let me guess--

Audubon's
Birds of America
?

That's en route, but no--
Emily Dickinson.

I never realized
how many writers

were fascinated with birds

until now.

It's like when
I was gonna buy a green Jeep,

all of a sudden, I started
seeing them everywhere.

[chuckles]

New T-shirt?

What do ya think?

I think it's nerdy...

[laughs]

...but I like it.

-Shall we?
-Yes.

So... it's really
just an honor system

for a prize that big?

You record what you see.

That sounds ripe
for cheating or mistakes,

especially
from someone like me--

who knows very little
about birds.

What if I get it wrong?

I got you.

I just want you to get
more out of this

than making a list.

Like the other day?

How do you mean?

Well, instead of
just running around

like chickens
with our heads cut off--

oh, wow,
that's a terrible saying!

Yeah. Yeah, wow,
I won't disagree.

...you made me slow down

and just look at the bird.

It's the kind of guiding
I want to do...

for beginners.

You could be my first.

I think I already am.

Well, you're doing great.

Well, I have a lot of time
to study and shop online.

My daughter is getting ready
to go off to college

and doesn't seem
to need me as much anymore.

What about you?

That's what I'm curious about.

Did you just see that?

Stop avoiding the question.

No, I'm serious!
I think I just saw a scrub jay.

A scrub jay-- how do you even
know what a scrub jay is?

-Hey. Hey, hey, hey.
-I think I just saw a scr--

Oh, gosh, I'm in a plant.

-Whoa, whoa. You okay?
-I'm okay.

[calmly]
Slow down, okay?

No rush.

So where'd you see it?

-Right up here.
-That way?

All right, let's go.

[birds singing]

I grew up in Cleveland,
a place called Shaker Heights,

and now I'm a high-school
English teacher.

That's it?

I don't mean "that's it"

like that's
all you got going on,

but what else about you?

Let's see.

I met my ex-husband
at university.

I moved here
when he got a job.

I quit mine when I had Morgan.

I just went back
a few years ago,

so basically, you could say
I took a long hiatus,

I lost myself in the process,

and now I feel like
I have no idea what I'm doing.

[deep breath]

I bet you're glad
you asked that question.

I am.

Your turn.

I grew up

in a small,
ridiculously quiet town--

Mendocino,

about two hours north of here.

There wasn't really much to do,
or going on, so...

...I started birding.

And then
I fell in love with it.

[chuckles]

I'm glad you have time
for a new hobby.

It's kind of exciting.

Yes, it is.

Now don't talk to me.

[whispers] Oh, that's right--
you're birding.

[gasps] Look yonder.

A scrub jay is in sight.

Oh, yeah, look at that.

[birds singing]

[Celeste] Toldja I saw one.

Indeed, a scrub jay.

Ha.

Good spotting.

Thank you.

[Celeste] Seven? In two hours?

[John] Hence the title
"Patient Listening".

We got time.

Okay, speaking of time,

do you happen
to have any to spare

on Friday night?

We have this school event.

It's a fundraiser.

Parents against teachers.

-What's the "against" part?
-Bowling.

Oh, no, I'm out.

Really?

Only because
I'm a terrible bowler.

Oh, no, no, no.
You do not have to be good.

You just have to show up.

That is 97% of it--
I promise.

But, full disclosure,

I may have insinuated something

that makes this all
a bit more complicated.

Okay.

You know
how I teach high school?

Well, sometimes, I feel like

I'm still in high school
with all the gossip,

and the drama
and the people in your business,

trying to set you up because
they feel sorry for you.

And then there were
your flowers--

thank you, by the way.
I hope you got my text.

It was just
a little something.

And my co-workers saw 'em

and they thought
I had a new boyfriend.

Okay. And, uh,
to which you said?

Not a lot!
They're a bit much.

And then, of course,
they wanted to meet you.

-Your "new boyfriend"?
-Yes.

I know,
it's a lot to ask.

I just-- I don't wanna be
that person anymore.

What-- What person?

The one people pity.

I just wanna go
and I wanna bowl

and raise some money
for the kids.

I'm in.

Really?

Yeah. I owe you.

[♪♪♪]

[Eva] Girl, you look great

What's the big deal?

Well, it's not every day

you have to get dressed
for a fake date.

It's harder than you think!

Mm. No, not that one.

What? No?

You know, it's casual.

It's bowling,

so it's gotta be casual,

but cute enough
for early dating.

Whatever that means!

[Eva] That's tragic.

Oh, please--
don't hold back.

[laughs]

[gasping] What about this?

[Eva] Oh! Better.

-But?
-[door shuts]

Oh, it's Morgan!
I gotta go!

"Better" wasn't a "yes"!

[termination beeping]

I can't do the same concept
as every other artist.

It's the Junior Art Collective!

My... [sighs]
My last one.

[Celeste] Hi, honey!

You're home.

I gotta go.

How was your day?

[sighing] Okay.

Except my art project
is a disaster.

You get nervous every year,

and I know
it's gonna be beautiful.

It's fine.

I just need to revise it...

in a vacuum.

Well, if you need my help--

That's not a vacuum.

I wanted to give you this.

Go on.

Open it.

You didn't need
to get me anything.

I know.

I'm just excited for you.

Thanks... Mom.

But...

what if I made a mistake?

In choosing V.A.U.?

This has been the goal,
the path,

for as long
as I can remember.

I know.

You're so close.
Don't second-guess yourself.

If it's too big, we can always
get you a different size.

[abrupt] It's good.

Are you sure?

I just need
to get back to my pieces.

I can't bomb my last art show.

You won't.

Hey! Don't forget
your cookie dough.

[♪♪♪]

[♪♪♪]

[Celeste]
We need to figure this out.

But you already
gave me the lowdown on everyone.

Well, that's them.
What about us? How did we meet?

[John] That's gonna come up
between strikes?

With this crew,
you never know.

Was it birding at--?
Doh, I have no idea.

-Hawk Hill.
-"Hawk Hill!"

We were looking
at the same bird--

-Mm-hmm.
-...and then I asked you out

for French fries.

-French fries?
-They're my go-to food.

They're perfect
on any occasion.

Well, you see,

that's something
I definitely needed to know!

[indistinct chatter]

We good?

Did you stretch?

My bowling arm?

You'll probably be okay--
with a little PT.

Well, maybe.

[exhales anxiously]

Hey, everyone.

This is John.

-Hi.
-John!

-Hi.
-Hi, John.

[chuckles anxiously]

You are much taller
than I imagined.

Taller?
You mean brawnier!

[John] Really?

Why's that?

You mean, "for a birder"?

Well, I guess
I never met one before.

But we're excited
to get to know you.

So excited!

Like, what university
did you go to?

[Layla] Did you have
a favorite teacher?

[Andrea]
Do you have any children?

[gasps]
How did you guys meet?

-Yes! How did you meet?
-You know what, ladies?

Why don't we do this
after we bowl,

'cause we don't wanna
hold everyone up.

-Yeah. Yeah.
-Right, hon'?

I know I'm ready to bowl.

-Are you?
-Yeah.

Fine. Everyone, add your name
to the scoreboards!

It's time to bowl!

Whoo!

♪ Listen up
Feel the rush ♪

♪ 'Cause our time
has begun now ♪

♪ Yeah ♪

♪ Pressure's on
Start the song ♪

♪ And let's lose control ♪

♪ Yeah ♪

♪ I'm reachin' out ♪

♪ Can I touch the clouds? ♪

♪ Try to pull me down ♪

♪ Can't keep my feet
on the ground ♪

♪ Yes, you and me ♪

♪ Come and feel this beat ♪

♪ There's a world to see ♪

♪ Can't keep
my feet on the ground ♪

♪ I'm reachin' out ♪

♪ Can I touch the clouds? ♪

♪ Try to pull me down ♪

♪ Can't keep my feet
on the ground ♪

♪ Yes, you and me ♪

♪ Come and feel this beat ♪

♪ There's a world to see ♪

♪ Can't keep my feet
on the ground ♪

So...
in the absence of fries,

what can I get you?

Red Vines.
They're quick.

I think
everybody's wrapping up.

"Red Vines"?

I'm more of a Junior Mints
kind of guy myself,

but I'll be right back.

[hushed] I'm sorry, but...

I don't think
he's that into her.

I kind of have to agree.

I mean, did you see
how she was all over him,

and teaching him how to bowl,

and he didn't even touch her?

Ugh. Is it bad
that I feel sorry for her?

Same! I mean,
when I think of her--

a whole year, alone?

Yeah. I mean,
this definitely

never would have
happened with Gary.

[Layla] Gary is such
a wild card emotionally, though.

She wanted to be here,

but she got roped into
this fundraiser,

it was for her--
-Hi.

-Oh!
-I'm sorry.

Can I-- Can I borrow you
for a sec?

-Yeah. Sure.
-Yeah?

Where's our candy?

Uh, well, um...

They didn't have any?

I didn't make it
to the front of the line.

I have been
a terrible fake boyfriend.

What are you talking about?

You've been fine.

Not according to your friends.

[♪♪♪]

Oh? Oh...

Yeah.
They're, uh, questioning...

my devotion to you.

Devotion?

-Yeah.
-Like, how?

We just started dating.

Me being into you.

I haven't been
selling it enough.

I'm sorry.

There's nothing
to be sorry about.

Yeah, they're--
they're watching us right now.

[Celeste]
They are? Oh, yeah, they are.

Mm. Um, I can fix this.

It would just mean
us getting a little closer

than what we discussed.

Yeah.

I really don't want to go out
with Andrea's cousin, so...

go for it.

Okay.

[♪♪♪]

[both sighing dreamily]

It's vanilla, isn't it?

What?

Your perfume.

Oh, it's lavender...

and I think vanilla caviar,

not that
you would notice that.

I think
it's different on everyone.

I'm starting to notice
a lot of things about you.

[♪♪♪]

Everyone is watching us.

Yeah, they are.

Yeah.

I mean, we--

we should probably kiss, right?

Being this close?

I mean, if we're dating--

-Yeah, being this close, right?
-...probably.

-Yeah, probably.
-Yeah.

Are we really doing this?

It appears so.

[♪♪♪]

We should, uh...

-Yeah.
-We should probably go.

Uh, yeah.

It's an early morning tomorrow.

-Yeah.
-With the birds.

With the birds.
With the birds.

Thank you.

You're welcome.

-Are those your--
-Yeah.

...your shoes right here?

-Yeah, those are my shoes here.
-Okay. Bye.

-All right.
-See ya.

Bye-bye. Bye.

[♪♪♪]

[Morgan] Mom,
this new birdcam is so cool.

[Celeste] It is.

Right? I've been
watching it all morning.

I know you like a clean house,
but this feels excessive.

What's wrong?

Nothing's wrong!

Our living room
just needed some sprucing.

Does this have anything to do
with your bird-friend

coming over?
-What? No!

Why would you say that?

So you're really just going
to hang out in our backyard

and watch birds?

For the contest.

Our backyard happens
to be a bit of a bird sanctuary,

according to
A Guide

Whatever you say.

Have you talked
to your roommate

about who's
bringing the fridge?

Oh, and I was thinking
we could run out

and get matching duvets.

I've got time now.

I'm actually meeting up
with some friends

at the art studio.
-Oh.

I'll get to it, okay?

Sorry, sorry.
I didn't mean to push.

Um, you wanna
order ramen later?

I'm actually having dinner
with Dad and Lucy.

He didn't mention
he was coming.

I guess it was
a super-last-minute work thing.

I'm sorry.
It'll be fun!

You are gonna have a lot of fun.

You know...

you can date people too, right?

Yeah, I know that,

and I will,
when I meet someone I like.

It's all about timing.

So not this new bird-guy?

Pretty sure he's still
hung up on his ex,

so yeah, no,
not gonna go there.

Whatever you say.

Have fun organizing
your living room.

It's still "our" living room!

You haven't moved out yet.

Oh, I'm sure
you're counting the days.

[knocking]

[door opens]

Uh, Mom, someone's asking
for you on the porch.

What? Already?

Tall, nerdy-surfer vibe?

Is he your birding friend?

Why are you saying it
like that?

No reason!

Did you just
leave him out there?

Yeah.

His name is John...
by the way.

Come on in, John!

[♪♪♪]

[chuckles] Ahem.

-Hi!
-Hi.

You're early.

I thought we said ten.

Really?
I thought we said nine.

Is it-- Is it okay I came in?

Your daughter, she told me to--

She was just leaving.
Yeah. And that's good,

because now
you've met my daughter.

I mean, not that
it's, like, super-significant

that my daughter
meet my birding partner.

Although, we are in
our second weekend,

so that-that does feel
pretty significant.

So it's okay I came in?

It's great!

I'm gonna, um, go grab my stuff,

and then we can
find some feathers.

All right. Cool.

I don't know if we're supposed
to pick favorites,

but the yellow warbler
is definitely

the most attractive bird
we've seen.

So far!

They're like a sunburst
with wings,

and those little nests
they make?

They're like coffee mugs!
Adorable!

Ah, you spotted it.

You identified it.

You'll get there, don't worry.

So, be honest--

we're halfway through,
how are we doing?

-Numbers-wise?
-Mm-hmm.

Well, it's tough to say when
we don't know others' counts.

Well, can't we just ask them?

I'm sure they'd like to know.

That's not something we do.

Nobody knows the counts
until the final reception,

when we announce the winner.

So...?

So... 97 is decent.

Teams can spot

up to 200 bird species
per weekend.

200 per weekend?

We're nowhere near
where we need to be.

Let's go!

Oops! Ha!

Oh, hey... an injury
is not gonna help us.

Well, stop distracting me.

Oh, I'm distracting?

Mm-hmm. Let's go.

-Where are we going?
-Yonder!

-Hmm?
-I can hear them.

-All right.
-Do you hear that?

"Yonder" it is.

I know you liked
doing this as a kid,

but did you actually
study ornithology in school?

Biology with
a minor in ornithology.

I made it my concentration
in grad school.

Masters or Ph.D.?

Masters, initially.

Breena really wanted me

to do the whole
tenure-track professorship,

like her,

which made sense
until...

Lazlo?

...I realized I hated it.

So I dropped out,

much to Breena's dismay.

Hence Lazlo--

who was deeply rooted
in all things academia.

I'm sorry.

I just didn't wanna spend
more time in a lab

than in the outdoors.

But, believe it or not...

I'm a desk-job guy now.

Well, hopefully not forever,

and I think we can win.

Oh, I definitely
don't think Breena thinks that.

Well, who cares
what she thinks?

It would be great
to prove her wrong.

[♪♪♪]

You are so lucky

that you have all this
in your backyard.

I know, right?

I love all of these birds,

but I know very little
about them...

or what's happening
all around them.

Like over here--
do you see that one?

Oh, yeah!
Look at that.

[Celeste] What is it?

You really want me
to tell you?

No.

The red-footed mini pigeon.

[laughs] Seriously?

[Celeste]
The western bluebird.

Okay.

Wow. You really had me there.

I told you
you'd get there.

[birds singing]

[Celeste] That one!

I hear those birds
all the time,

but I can't find them.

The little chicks
just flew the nest,

which feels
a little too close to home.

Ah, I guess you're not ready
for Morgan to leave yet?

No. Not that she's wanted
to hang out much lately.

Look, I'm no parent,

but I bet you're doing
better than you think.

It's a parent's job
to give their kids roots

and then wings.

It seems to me like
you're doing just that.

Of course, you would
find an analogy in it.

-[chuckling]
-[bird trills]

Oh, can you tell me
what that is?

That's the call
of a red-winged blackbird.

Do you typically hear
a call and a response?

Yeah, usually,
you hear a pair

calling back and forth
to each other.

The male and the female
each have different sounds.

[birds calling]

There it is. Right there.

Where?

On the branch. You see it?

That's the female.

[Celeste] Oh, yes!

[bird sings and trills]

It sounds like the other one

is just across the stream,
over there.

The males have
the distinct red wing.

[Celeste chuckles]

What are they saying?

Well, if I knew that,

I'd definitely have
my own birding business.

I walked right into
that one, didn't I?

-Yeah, you did.
-You know what I mean, though.

I mean, they're obviously
trying to communicate something.

I don't know exactly,
but they're just...

keeping track of each other,

looking for food,

making sure
no one goes too far.

Who knew birds
could be so romantic?

You did.

Maybe.

[♪♪♪]

We added 40 today.

That's 119.
That's our bird count.

That's a great day.

Where were you
at this point last year?

Let's not worry about the past.

I just wanna...
enjoy this.

You?

Same.

'Cause this
is a whole new ballgame.

I don't know if you heard,
but...

I got a new partner.

I may have heard
something about her.

Smart, enthusiastic--

Maybe a little too nice
with her co-workers, but...

hopefully very good
at trivia night?

They're really gonna
add 10 points for the winner?

Yeah. It's the first year
they're doing this.

Oh, there's only one problem.

-What's that?
-Trivia's on Thursday.

You said this would
just be weekends.

You can't make it?

You're joking?

-Yeah.
-Okay.

I'm pretty sure
I'm free on Thursday.

Okay, good.

Good.

Well, I guess
I should get back to it.

I gotta start studying
for the big game.

Yep. Same. Same!

Have a good sleep.

It's gonna be
a big day tomorrow.

I'll be there.
Goodnight!

Goodnight.

[♪♪♪]

Look. Right there.

[♪♪♪]

[calling for birds]

[calling]

[calling for birds]

[laughing]

♪ Whoa-oh-oh-oh ♪

♪ Whoa-oh-oh ♪

♪ Whoa-oh-oh-oh ♪

♪ Letting go, letting go ♪

♪ Couldn't breathe in the city ♪

♪ So I took to the road ♪

♪ Whoa-oh-oh-oh-oh-oh ♪

♪ When every window
went down ♪

♪ I wasn't even sure
where to go ♪

♪ Whoa-oh-oh-oh-oh-oh ♪

♪ You can find me ♪

♪ Where we all run free ♪

♪ Whoa-oh-oh-oh ♪

♪ Whoa-oh-oh ♪

♪ Whoa-oh-oh-oh ♪

♪ Letting go, letting go ♪

♪ Whoa-oh-oh-oh ♪

♪ Whoa-oh-oh ♪

♪ Whoa-oh-oh-oh ♪

♪ Letting go, letting go ♪

♪ Whoa-oh-oh-oh... ♪

♪ Letting go, letting go ♪

Costa's hummingbird.

Bingo.

Hey, what are y'all
looking at?

[Celeste] Shh.

Right there.

Oh, sorry! My bad.

[John] You see him?

He's sitting right
on that branch.

Right there.

Here, take these.

[♪♪♪]

Wow!

See, I don't think
I'd be any good at this.

I mean, I can't
sit still long enough

to tie my shoes,
let alone scout for birds.

Well, I am happy to meet you,
Fred, 'cause I can relate.

I think you'd be surprised.

You just met
the Clark Kent of birds,

and only because of migration--

otherwise, they'd be
asleep right now.

Superman?

Yeah.

Hummingbirds
are faster than cars.

And just like you
on this trail,

their wings never stop moving.

[chuckles]

Wow. Thanks!

I wonder what else is out here.

What?

You're really good at this.

With or without a Ph.D.,
you can win this...

and be a great guide.

Pretty sure
Fred would agree.

[♪♪♪]

[both wheezing]

[John] Are you okay?

[Celeste] Yeah.

This is it.

The tall trees,
old-growth forests--

the perfect habitat
for nesting.

Spotted owls love
places like this.

I'm impressed.

You've done your homework.

I was doing some research
and I found this message board,

and someone claimed
to have seen one in this area,

even during the daytime.

Do we get bonus points
if we spot one?

[chuckles] No.

Just the, uh, the satisfaction
and the bragging rights.

And maybe, because of you...

we're gonna see one today.

Okay.

Let's be very quiet.

[hushed]
Look. I see something!

[♪♪♪]

[quietly] That's it.

[♪♪♪]

[♪♪♪]

[snapping]

[snap]

[Celeste chuckles]

Thank you.

[♪♪♪]

[♪♪♪]

[door opens]

[♪♪♪]

[chuckles softly]

[♪♪♪]

[♪♪♪]

[♪♪♪]

Did I read your text correctly?

Are you going out with John
on a weeknight?

I do not think
I sent you that text.

Okay, maybe it was John,
but either way-- exciting!

It's for the contest
that you got me into.

Yeah, this feels
a touch extracurricular.

I mean, it's a pub!

There are birding points
on the line.

[dryly] Oh, that's
a whole other ballgame, then.

Don't you have
somewhere to be?

-Remarkably, no.
-Well, I do.

So, go!

Okay, bye.

Don't forget about
our party on Saturday.

What party?

The anniversary party...

ten years.

Wait! Did I not give you one?
I swore I did!

No!

But you did
tell me about it.

[relieved sigh]
Not funny.

Very cute invite.
I will be there.

Now I remember.

I ran into John
at pickleball the other day.

He's pretty excited
about tonight.

Just sayin'.

[♪♪♪]

-Oh.
-Oh, finally.

What? I'm here before 10 A.M.,
so, you know, you're welcome.

Okay, listen,
I got a question for you.

Mm-hmm?

How much land mass
was given to construction

over the last year,

affecting bird habitat?

You're asking me that?

I'm pretty sure

you get to roll in here
after 10 A.M. for a reason.

And I got trivia tonight.

Oh, when will
you know the results?

What, for trivia,
or for the contest?

The contest.

This weekend. Why?

[exhaling]

There's an opening...

for Operations Director
that I wanna put you up for.

Look, it's more managerial,
obviously,

and will mean more time
in front of a computer screen,

but the pay reflects that,

so if you're interested...

Can you give me
till Monday?

Sure. Yeah.

I mean, that's probably as far
as I can push it, though.

Thanks, C.

No problem.

And, uh, have a good time
with your "new partner" tonight.

Why are you
saying it like that?

I don't know.

Celeste and I
are just teammates.

[scoffs] Oh. Okay.

'Cause I was just
getting the feeling

that you were super-excited
to spend more time with her,

that's all. You know?

You know,
'cause you seem super-excited.

That's the vibe
I'm getting.

-Okay.
-Yeah.

Fine. I-I-I am excited.

Okay.

Now, how about
the land mass question?

I need to know that.
I need the win.

[exhaling deeply]

John, I...

I know everything.

Come!

I knew it!

♪ Ooh, ooh ♪

[♪♪♪]

[indistinct chatter]

Hi!

-Hey!
-Hey.

Sorry to keep you waiting.

You didn't have
to w-wait for me.

Oh, I am not going in there
without you.

Why not?

You can hold your own.

Y-You look really--

Don't say it.
I'm very focused right now.

I have my "trivia face" on.

Okay, well, I was gonna say
you look really ready to win.

Why do you say that?

All tan.

Is that coincidence
or choice?

What do you think?

-Choice!
-Correct.

Muted colors help ensure
the survival for females.

And what about
this purple situation?

-Oh!
-Is that dominance?

This? Let's hope so.

But it was actually, uh,
so I could attract a mate.

[scoffs]

In the wild--
of course.

-Mm-hmm! Of course.
-Yeah.

-You ready to win?
-Let's go.

Okay, let's go.
Let's do this.

[chuckling]

[chuckles] All right!
Moving right along.

Next question.

Which bird uses
the prevailing winds

to keep cool?

Yeah, I-I'm sorry,
but this question

is lacking
in needed specifics.

Which season?
Which winds?

Oh, take an educated guess!

It's trivia night,
after all.

[whispering]

I'm telling you--
it's the verdin.

That teeny little bird
builds a spherical nest

with the opening
facing the breeze--

it's genius.

Wow. Okay.

Submit your answers.

Is that it?

I-I don't know, but it-it seems
like the right answer.

-What?
-Why don't you--

You don't know and I do?

This is such a "student
becomes the teacher" moment!

-It is.
-Write it down, John.

Okay.

[Linda] And the answer is...

the verdin.

-Yes!
-[cheering]

Look at you!

[Linda] Team Patient Listening
has the correct answer!

[applause]

Okay.

Now, keeping things going--

with an average speed
of over 200 miles an hour,

which bird isn't just
the fastest bird on earth,

but the speediest animal?

The answer
is peregrine falcon!

Four teams get a point
on that one.

Here we go.

Which U.S. President

was an avid birder
with a life list

of over 1,100 species
of birds?

-Okay.
-[whispers indistinctly]

[Linda] Clock is ticking.

Here we go...

and the correct answer
is Jimmy Carter!

Great job,
Team Deducktions,

with the correct answer.

Next question.

This bird species can sleep
with one eye open while flying.

One eye?

All right, almost there.

And the answer is--
Arctic tern!

That's two teams
with the correct answer...

which means
we have a tie!

-No!
-Yes.

Deducktions
and Team Patient Listening,

are you ready
to do a face-off?

Game on!

[Linda] All right.

This question's a little
different from the others.

This question involves a poem
by Emily Dickinson.

Wait, that's your girl.

I know!

Okay, poker face.

[Linda]
Okay, everybody ready?

In this poem,
Dickinson makes a reference

to a desert insect known
as the "cochineal".

What is the name of the poem?

Come on, Linda!
Seriously?

I don't make up the questions.
I just read them!

Come on--
the clock is ticking.

You know
the answer to this?

I've read it a dozen times.

Okay. Well, speak
from the heart, young Jedi.

[Linda]
All right, time's up.

Let's see who's
the most literary amongst us.

And the answer is...

The Humming-Bird.

"...the Humming-Bird!"

Which means,
Team Patient Listening,

you are our winners!

[crowd applauding]

I cannot believe
you're relatively new to this.

You're a natural!

You should totally come
on a birding trip with us.

I have no idea
what that consists of,

but yes, I'm in.
-Really?

This has been
a ton of fun.

You have been a ton of fun!

More fun than I've had in years.
I'd love to be included.

Oh. How do you feel
about Arizona?

[Celeste] My daughter
is going to college there soon,

so I'd love
an excuse to visit.

[Linda] The light is beautiful.

-Breena, hey.
-Hey.

I just wanted to say goodnight
and congratulations.

Thank you.

I mean, "cochineal"--
wow, a lucky guess, huh?

Celeste actually knew
the whole poem.

I guess that would be
in her wheelhouse--

English teacher
and all.

What, did you-- did you
Google her or something?

It's important
to know your competition,

but since she's never entered
a birding contest before,

I'm feeling pretty good
about our odds.

Hey, at least you seem happy.

So you're saying
that if we lose,

at least there's that?

No offense,

but I would've picked a partner
with more experience.

I had one.

Remember?

And then you chose Lazlo.

I think we're done here.

John, I didn't mean
to insult--

You did!

Breena--

you meant to insult Celeste,
and then me along the way,

but she's incredible,

and I wouldn't have won tonight
without her.

You know, I don't need
your advice or your approval.

Not anymore.

[♪♪♪]

We did it!

-[John laughs]
-We won! Go, us!

You saved us in the end.

You were incredible.

How are you?

I saw you in there
talking to Breena.

You know what?

I'm... I'm fine.

I was just-- I'm wondering
what I was trying to prove,

and... why to her.

You know? It's...

You know, I'm finally over it.

Enough about that.

Tonight,

we are victorious!

[Celeste laughs]

So we should, you know, go out.

Oh, I would love to,

but I've got
an early morning tomorrow,

and Morgan's probably
waiting for me.

About that,
just think... chickadees.

"Chickadees"?

Well, you've read and seen
how skittish they can be,

but with patience and positive,
consistent interaction--

Are you talking
about my daughter or birds?

Just let her come to you
in her own time.

That's-That's all I'm saying.

Okay.

Do you need a lift?

Thank you, but I-I actually
called a rideshare.

It should be here any minute.

Um...

Are you going to Eva's party
Saturday night?

Yeah,
the tenth-anniversary bash?

Yeah, you?

Same.

Should we go together?

Like... as a couple?

I'm assuming your co-workers
are-are gonna be there, so...

-Oh, right!
-So...

Yeah, yeah. I mean, obviously,
we gotta keep this all up,

for, like, a little bit longer.
-Right.

My ride's here.

I should probably go.

Although, honestly,

I'd just like
to spend more time with you

without the birds.

What? Do my ears deceive me?

No birds?

Is that a "yes" or a "no"
to me picking you up?

Can't just leave me
hanging here.

Well, I can't say no
to that shirt.

Well, I'm glad I wore it then.

-Goodnight.
-Goodnight.

[♪♪♪]

[♪♪♪]

From your strong foundation

So you kissed again?

Yes, but this time,
it wasn't even planned.

It just sort of happened.

And then he asked you out
on a date to our party?

Yes. No.

I mean, I don't know!

It's hard to know what's real
or fake anymore,

and I don't wanna think
it's something it's not

and just get hurt again.

Oh! Whoa! Whoa.

[laughs] No,
this is how we'll get hurt!

Sorry, eagle pose,
I give up.

Yeah, me too.

[laughs]

But you like him, right?

This is all your fault.

Blame I will happily accept.

Just have fun!

It's gonna be a great night.

Don't overthink it.

You think you can do that?

[sing-songy]
I guess we'll find out.

[clack]

[♪♪♪]

[thump]

[♪♪♪]

Hey... Mom?

Hey! Are you sure
you don't want to come?

To a party with
my high-school teachers?

[laughing]

Thanks, but I'm good.

And how are you feeling
about your artwork?

I still can't believe
it's the last time

you'll show with
the Junior Art Collective.

Don't cry!

And I'm feeling better,

now that I've changed
a few things.

You really won't show me?

I want you to have
the same experience of surprise

as everyone else.

And I can't believe

the closing reception
is also tomorrow night,

but as soon as
they announce the winner,

I'm outta there.

It's fine.
You don't have to rush.

Oh, I will rush.
I promise.

[doorbell rings]

[exhaling deeply]

I'll get it.

No, no, no. I will--

-I'll get it.
-No, let me.

Morgan!

[laughing]

Hi, Morgan.

Your friend is here.

Hi.

Hi.

[Andrea] Do you think
she got a designer?

Mm. But it's nice.

She's got good taste.

Oh! I'm so glad
you two could make it.

'Cause we have
a big surprise for you all.

I mean, it's not that big.

-It's a little big.
-Yeah.

If it's for her,
it better be diamonds.

No one wants tin or aluminum
for their tenth.

Something bright and shiny.

Tin stands for strength
and resilience.

Mm-hmm. Which I love,
but it's not about all that.

It's about having the party
that we wanted to have

ten years ago.

All right, you two.

Time for a treat.

You two,
go enjoy the party.

♪ Happy anniversary! ♪

-Oh, my--
-You look so beautiful.

Hi.

Hey, Eva.
Congrats.

Thank you.

You two...
are a good-looking couple.

[laughing]

Is that champagne?

Only the finest for you two.

Thanks, man.

-Happy anniversary.
-Big day, yeah!

-Cheers to you.
-Here's to you two.

So... are you ready for this?

Mm. It better not be
another competition.

No.

[chuckles] Better.

Come on.

Follow me.

He's been talking
about it.

Come on, you guys
are gonna love it!

You're gonna love it.

[♪♪♪]

We searched far and wide
for a killer DJ,

so I wanna see
everyone out here.

No excuses!

"No excuses"?
Why are you looking at me?

[laughter]

Well, I guess we're dancing.

He did say "everyone".

[John sighs]

-Do you dance?
-Oh, I dance.

At least, better than I bowl.

[laughs]

[♪♪♪]

Milady.

[♪♪♪]

[laughing]

Is that your move?

Oh, yeah!

Oh!

I'm impressed.

You haven't even seen me
do the electric slide yet.

[laughing] Really?

I want to see it.

Look at this!

[laughing]

You do know
the electric side!

Now I'm equally impressed.

[laughing]

[ballad rises]

[♪♪♪]

[♪♪♪]

What do you say?

It's the perfect song for you.

What do you mean?

♪ Mm... ♪

Just listen.

♪ Why do birds ♪

♪ Suddenly appear ♪

♪ Every time ♪

♪ You are near? ♪

♪ Just like me
They long to be... ♪

-♪ Close to you... ♪
-"Close to You."

-♪ Why do stars... ♪
-That's the song.

I told you it was perfect.

♪ ...Fall down from the sky
Every time you walk by ♪

♪ Just like me
They long to be ♪

♪ Close to you ♪

♪ On the day
that you were born ♪

♪ The angels got together ♪

♪ And decided
to create a dream come true ♪

♪ So they sprinkled moondust
in your hair of gold ♪

♪ And starlight
in your eyes of blue... ♪

What are we doing?

I don't know.

♪ That is why... ♪

Pretending?

♪ ...All the girls in town ♪

♪ Follow you ♪

♪ All around... ♪

We need to stop.

♪ ...Just like me ♪

♪ They long to be ♪

♪ Close to you ♪

♪ On the day
that you were born ♪

-♪ The angels got together... ♪
-Oh, no, I've got to go.

Okay, I'll just stay.

♪ And decided to create
a dream come true ♪

They'll be okay.

♪ So they sprinkled moondust
in your hair of gold ♪

♪ And starlight
in your eyes of blue... ♪

Is everything okay?

Yeah. Yeah, I just--

I haven't checked my messages
in a while.

I wasn't sure if Morgan was
trying to get a hold of me.

Nice to see you too.

Andrea is leaving too,

so I'm gonna get
a ride with her.

What's going on?

Did-Did I do something?

No. It's just
a big day tomorrow

with Morgan's art show

and the end of all of this.

The reception?

I just need to go.

Celeste, I don't understand.

-Why are you leaving now?
-I'm sorry.

I just--
I can't pretend anymore.

[♪♪♪]

But fingers crossed
we win.

[♪♪♪]

[sighs heavily]

It was really nice
talking to both of you.

I hope everything works out.

Goodnight!

Long distance, at 23?

Please!

I don't know who thinks
that's gonna work.

Had you not met her yet?
The new hire?

She just moved here
from South Carolina.

You know what?
She's fine.

They will figure it out,
and they'll be fine.

What isn't fine
is you all

talking about
their personal lives

like it's a past-time.

We need to be bigger than that.

Okay.

Heard.

And you may have
also "heard"

me say I was pretending
with John,

and it's true.

He's not into me.

He was never into me.

It's a fake relationship

that I should have never
felt the need to create,

but because
you all were pitying me,

I started pitying myself.

That's not
what we were doing.

It's okay.

It actually-- it pushed me
to try new things,

and to stop worrying
about what everyone else thinks,

and to realize
I'm okay on my own--

like, really okay.

Okay.

[♪♪♪]

[♪♪♪]

Did you get enough to eat?

Are you okay?

Yeah! Of course I am.

Why would I not be?

I just-- I wanna make sure
you are ready for your show.

I'm ready.

What about you
and your birding reception?

I am assuming
it will be short and sweet,

and I will be
outta there in no time.

I'm crossing my fingers
you win.

Thank you.

I'll be at your show
the second I can.

Hey, Mom?

Yeah?

I'm not going.

To what? Your show?

V.A.U.

V.A.U.?
What are you talking about?

At least,
not straight away.

I just need some more time
to decide.

I'm looking into
some art schools.

Oh, honey,
you can do all that...

after you finish undergrad.

It's only four years.

I've already made up my mind,

and let Admissions
and my dorm roommate know.

Dad knows.

I don't understand this.

This is a massive shift.
Why didn't we talk about it?

It just...

it just doesn't
feel right anymore.

I'll see you tonight?

Yeah. I'll see you tonight.

[♪♪♪]

[sighs]

[indistinct chatter]

John, I think
we all enjoyed meeting Celeste.

I hope she competes again
with you next year.

Well, that--
that would be nice.

[chuckles]

[Linda] And soon,
we need to talk about plans

for the Arizona trip.

Excuse me.

[chatter continues
indistinctly]

It's good to see you.

You too.

Celeste--

[Breena]
I'm feeling pretty good.

[Lazlo] The birds found us!

We were lucky.

It's not luck.
We were the best.

[♪♪♪]

[Linda] It's time!

We have a short slideshow
before the contest,

so if everyone
could gather round?

Shall we?

After you.

[uplifting slideshow
theme begins]

[♪♪♪]

269 is impressive
for bird species...

in such a short period of time.

Do you think it's enough?

Whatever it is...
it's okay.

[♪♪♪]

So we know there can
only be one winner,

but I am happy to announce

that this has been
our highest-scoring year yet,

with the best prizes,

and dare I say--

the most entertaining
slideshow?

[all chuckling]

But all that makes this moment
all the harder for me.

You're all wonderful,
and talented,

but the winner of

this year's annual NorCal
Ornithological Society

Bird-A-Thon--

with an amazing total
of 278 birds--

let's hear it
for Winged Warriors!

[applauding and cheering]

It's okay.

We did great.

We did.

[♪♪♪]

Well, there's always next year.

And besides...
we got to see a spotted owl!

This was your coin toss--
which way you were gonna go.

I'm sorry.

There's nothing
to be sorry about.

Well, that is debatable, but...

your ability to follow through,
that is well-documented--

with your books,

all the birds
that you've spotted

since you were a kid.

Your passion for teaching...

you forged your own path,

and I was lucky enough
to experience that.

And I'm not gonna make
you swear any oaths tonight--

-[chuckles]
-...but I do hope

you'll consider
taking the risk

with your business,

even without the win.

You already have one client.

You?

I was thinking Fred,
from the trail?

[John laughs]

He's just waiting
for a heads-up.

You're amazing.

You know that?

That's the feeling I got
the second I met you.

-I--
-[phone alert chimes]

[chiming]

I have to go.

I'm late to Morgan's art show.

Oh...

I gotta go.

Goodnight.

[background chatter,
indistinct]

Yeah, I'm really nervous,
but I am excited.

I will definitely let you guys
know where I land.

It's definitely
going to be an adventure.

[Morgan chuckles]

Excuse me.

Oh, you made it!

Of course I made it.

There is nowhere else
I wanna be.

This is your night!

How'd it go,
with the contest?

Oh, uh, we lost.

Oh, no, I'm sorry.

Oh, that's too bad.

[Eva]
Were you at least close?

Actually, yes,

but, unfortunately, "close"
doesn't help John.

Is he coming?

No. Why would he?

Why wouldn't he?

Isn't he your boyfriend?

What?

No!

Are you sure?

'Cause I haven't seen you
geek out about anyone,

or anything, this hard, since...
ever.

You bought
all that birding gear.

It's a fair statement.

Okay, where is your artwork?

Am I the only one
who hasn't seen it yet?

It's in the next room.

You're gonna love it.

[indistinct conversations]

[♪♪♪]

[Celeste gasps]

[tender theme rises]

[♪♪♪]

[chuckles warmly]

[♪♪♪]

"Hope

is the thing with feathers...

that perches in the soul

and sings the tune
without the words...

and never stops at all."

[chuckles]

Dickinson.

You inspired me.

Really? I did?

We've been through
a lot of hard change

in this past year, but...

...you didn't let it beat you.

You got back out
into the world,

found a new path, and...

...I've seen you
come alive again.

Mom...

you're amazing.

Oh!

Thank you,
and now I'm crying.

That's fine!

And I'm sorry
I didn't tell you sooner

about the gap year.

I think
I was second-guessing it,

but I'm not anymore.

I want to find my own path--

just like you.

[♪♪♪]

You gave me my wings to fly...

...and I promise,

I will always come back.

You know that, right?

I do.

And I want you to find the path
that's right for you...

...not anything
that's forced.

I know.

Oh...

look at that.

What?

Your "friend" is here.

[♪♪♪]

[conspicuously]
Oh, look, Morgan...

more art!

[♪♪♪]

[laughs]

What are you doing here?

I wanted to bring you these.

You know... big day.

Thought you might be hungry.

You brought me French fries?

[laughing]

Perfect for any occasion.

Like admitting

I don't always
say what I'm thinking.

Same.

Look.

I know this wasn't
supposed to be anything,

and as cheesy as it may sound,

just like
the red-winged blackbird...

In my backyard?

[sighs]

...I don't wanna
lose sight of you.

The bird analogy
really works here.

Thank you.

I thought about it
the whole way over.

I didn't mean to fall for you.

That was not
my intention at all.

So does that mean
you did... fall?

Apparently so.

And I didn't even realize it

until we were
at Eva and Nathan's,

and then, suddenly,
I didn't wanna pretend anymore.

I stopped pretending
a long time ago.

Well, you should
probably kiss me, then.

[sets fries down]

[♪♪♪]

So...

what do you think about
"Hop-Along Birding"?

Or...

"Flight Club"?

For my new business.

You're gonna go for it?

Like you said--

I think it's time
I take the risk.

It's now or never.

I am in full support.

It's also time

that I follow through

on everything
I'm passionate about.

Agreed.

And this is just the beginning.

So...

what about that name?

I think we should work on it,

but you might be
on to something.

I hope so.

[♪♪♪]

[♪♪♪]