Original subtitles

Oh, jingle bells, jingle bells, jingle all the way. Oh, what fun it is to ride

in a one-horse open sleigh.

Jingle bells, jingle bells, jingle all the way.

Oh, what fun it is to ride in a one-horse open sleigh.

A day or two ago, I thought I'd take a ride, and soon my favorite foe... It's

officially Christmas time here at the Radcliffe Center, and all of Chicago is

gathered to watch the lighting of the Radcliffe Christmas Tree. And here with

us, we have Chicago's very own Miss Christmas. You can call me Holly. Oh,

Holly, and you are the one to thank for that stunning tree. We are only moments

away now from the lighting.

And Holly is the creative director for the Radcliffe Center, and each year she

finds... transports, and facilitates decorating Chicago's Christmas tree.

It's a dream job come true.

Here we go!

Isn't that beautiful?

Chicago's symbol of Christmas.

I have no doubt that next year's tree will be bigger and better than ever.

No pressure.

Can't believe a year's gone by already.

For once in my life, I thought I made it to the office before you. There's always

tomorrow. Thanks.

You're a lifesaver.

Today is definitely a coffee kind of day. I did not get any sleep last night

and I have a million things to do. It was one of those things watching last

year's tree ceremony for the hundredth time. You know how happy it makes me.

And right now I need all the reassurance I can get. Holly, relax.

I just spoke with transport and all is good.

They've secured the trunk. They're about ready to cut. The tree will be here by

tonight. Yeah, fingers crossed.

Hello? Okay, okay, I'll be right there.

I still think I should have gone out there. I always go. And run yourself

ragged and micromanage everything and end up exhausted and unable to enjoy the

tree lighting ceremony.

Yeah, that's my Christmas tradition.

Why don't we find a new tradition this year?

Like what?

Like getting out of our comfort zone?

Back on the market.

I got us two tickets to a same-dating event.

Do you have anything else to wear, though? Because it looks like Mrs. Claus

chose your outfit again.

I think you should be a little nicer to someone who brings you coffee every

morning. And who's your boss.

I appreciate you thinking of me, but no.

Look, I have to be here for when the tree arrives, and I have so much to do.

All you do is work. That's not true. I do other things.

Like what?

Like... Like Christmas, okay? And after the Radcliffe tree arrives, I'm going to

go home and decorate my tree. There's 24 more days until Christmas.

I know, and I'm running out of time.

Listen, Erin, I appreciate your ongoing meddling into my personal life, but I'm

a little busy right now orchestrating cutting down a 95-foot tall spruce and

getting it trucked across the state. Really?

I'm sorry.

I just... I want to see you spend the holidays with someone. And I want that

too. It's just...

I'm busy right now and I'm trying to focus on my career.

Dating takes time and it's really distracting.

I just want to get my career to where it needs to be and then, you know, we'll

see. Wouldn't it be nice to bring a date to the tree lighting ceremony?

I just want there to be a tree lighting ceremony.

Everything is on schedule. What could possibly go wrong?

Holly!

Did you see this? Oh.

What happened?

It looks like the crane swiped it, breaking off the branches. Rendering it

unusable. It's ruined.

No, it's not ruined. It's... Okay, it's ruined. But it's going

to be fine. We can fix this.

How?

I... I'm going to find another tree.

Find another... You just spent all year finding this tree.

How are you going to find another tree and get it here and get it decorated in

time for the tree lighting ceremony in 10 days?

Thank you, Andrea.

It's very helpful.

Okay, folks, I'll leave.

You are Miss Christmas.

I am Miss Christmas.

This is what I do, and I'm going to figure this out.

Apparently, yes.

You know, maybe this is a good thing.

Yeah, that tree was beautiful, but it never felt right. It never felt like the

tree.

Maybe this happened for a reason. Are you actually finding the silver lining?

My dad always said, when things go wrong, don't go with them.

I know the perfect tree is out there, and I'm going to find it. Clear my

schedule. What about the speed dating?

Maybe you can find your perfect man.

The only thing that's harder than finding the perfect Christmas tree is

finding the perfect man.

But at least the perfect tree really does exist.

The transport team just sent us some photos of trees from the same vicinity

as the last one.

No, no. The Norway spruce are too short, and the fir is shedding needles.

None of these are right.

Well, it might be too late for the right tree. We might have to settle for the

right-now tree. No.

The tree is out there, and I am going to find it.

We have spent hours looking for a new tree.

How about these?

You've looked through those already?

What haven't I looked through?

You've looked through everything.

There has to be something.

What about the tree submissions we got in the mail?

They've been coming in all year.

Oh, yeah.

Guess I'm not going speed dating tonight.

No, no, no. You go. I got this.

Are you sure?

Yeah. Definitely.

Yes.

Definitely, yeah.

What is this season of miracles?

to tell you.

So your daycare mommy told me not only were you the best behaved dog today,

you're also the best looking dog.

We kind of already knew that, didn't we? Told you that bow looks good on you.

My sentiments, exactly.

Hey. Hey. I figured you'd be home by now. I just wanted to check and see what

you got so far.

Uh, apple trees, pot of plants, cacti, and a

popsicle stick tree.

Oh. Yeah.

You ready to give up?

Never.

Now I'm ready to give up.

Dear Miss Christmas, I saw you on TV.

You're the lady who chooses the Christmas tree.

I'm writing to you to tell you that I found your next tree. Please come to

Claus, Wisconsin to pick it up.

Sincerely, Joey McNary, age 8.

I found it. I found it. It's the tree.

I have to go to Claus.

Santa Claus?

Okay, you are officially Christmas crazy. No, no. Claus, Wisconsin.

You know, that town that does the big Christmas festival?

No. It's a big holiday destination spot.

They decorate the whole town.

They have Christmas events and caroling and everything, okay? My dad took me

once as a kid.

And now, the tree is there.

Yes. Yes, this really is perfect. It is. It's the tree.

Oh, hey, can you take Rudy from me while I'm gone? Sure.

But, Holly, there's no return address. How are you going to find these people?

Erin, this is what I do, all right? I am Miss Cook. Okay, it's a little too early

for that.

Fair enough.

Good job, though.

a winter wonderland.

You have to try it sometime.

How come these scouting trips never take us to Paris or London?

Maybe because trees tend to grow in forests.

Okay, I'm almost there.

Great. Now all you have to do is find Joey.

Yeah, it's a small town. How hard can it be?

The sparkly Christmas things.

I love to hear the children sing.

I like to hear the sleigh bells ring.

And all the joy that Christmas brings.

To be an angel in disguise.

With all the people passing by.

All right.

Wait, wait, wait. Is that center? A little to the left.

All right, let's try it.

How's that?

Perfect. Thank you.

Oh,

gosh, so sorry.

Sorry. Sorry about that. Whoa.

Sorry.

Okay, you go to your right. Go to your right.

Whoa.

Hi. Okay.

Yeah.

Hi.

Lucas.

It's really beautiful.

Yeah, we're getting there.

Nothing like a small town Christmas.

You're a little early.

Festival's not for four days.

We get a lot of you city folk.

Whoa.

Stop.

Turn around.

You calling me a city girl?

Well, are you not?

Okay, I might live in a city right now, but I will have you know that I grew up

on a Christmas tree farm. A Christmas tree farm? Yeah.

So you're one of those holiday people.

Holiday people?

Um, are you not one of those people?

No, no. Okay, because it looks to me like you're setting up for Christmas

last night. Well, we take turns here in our little small town of Kloss, okay? It

just happens to be my year.

Oh.

But if it were up to me...

I'd skip December altogether.

What?

What? You would skip December?

The most beautiful time of year, filled with hope and magic, twinkling Christmas

trees? It's just a fancy landing pad for presents.

Uh, you mean a symbol of seasonal rebirth.

Decton mistletoe.

Violet.

An emblem of romance!

Okay.

I guess I'm just...

Immune to the holiday spirit.

Well, then I guess I better be on my way.

Yeah, it's just like you big city folk.

Always rushing off somewhere.

I told you, I grew up on a Christmas tree farm, but you're not listening,

right?

Hi. Hi, I have a reservation.

Holly, right? Yes. Happy to have you. Thank you. Do you need any information

on claws?

Activities, restaurants?

Oh, our Christmas festival opens in four days. It is not to be missed.

I know. I was actually here once as a child, but today I'm here because I'm

hoping you could help me look for somebody.

Sure. I'm the creative director at the Radcliffe Center, and it's my job to

find the tree that goes in the plaza.

So cool. We watched that on TV. I am so looking forward to this year's tree.

Well, that's actually why I'm here. We were looking for a new tree, and then I

got this letter.

I know this is a long shot, but do you happen to know Joey McNary?

Not such a long shot.

I'm his aunt.

Come on. I'm Amy McNary. Are you serious?

Wow, that's a small world.

Oh, I could introduce you to his dad, my brother Sam.

Yeah. How about I take you to our family farm?

Okay.

Oh, I love your farm.

Reminds me of where I grew up.

So many gorgeous trees.

You have such a fun job.

Well, it's harder than it looks to find the perfect Christmas tree. Why?

Well, in addition to being the perfect height and shape and color, the tree has

to have that X-factor, that star quality.

What's so special about our tree?

It just feels meant to be.

I mean, I get Joey's letter and then I bump into you. No, that's not the hard

part. Convincing Sam to give you the tree is.

Well, maybe when I explain how important the tree is, the holiday spirit... Sam

isn't exactly the holiday spirit type.

If he had it his way, he'd go straight from Thanksgiving to Groundhog Day.

Oh. Mm-hmm.

What's he doing here?

You know him?

I... I bumped into him in town.

That's my brother Sam.

That's Joey's dad.

Great. Come on.

The Christmas tree farmer who lives in Chicago.

What's going on?

Bringing the holiday cheer door to door now?

Something like that.

Holly, Sam, Sam, Holly.

Hi. Hello again.

I'm here because I work for the Radcliffe Center. It's my job to find

the tree that goes in the center, and this year we want your tree.

To be the tree. You lost me.

I

didn't know that

he did this.

I'm sorry,

you can't have this tree.

This has never happened to me before.

Okay, well, maybe you could just think about it. I mean, I know you personally

aren't a fan of Christmas, but so many people are, and to them, this tree is a

beautiful symbol of the season.

It's just not for sale.

I'm not asking to buy it. It's donation-based, and most people are

happy to do it. Listen, Holly, I feel really bad that you came all this way

from Chicago, but I wish there was something I could do to help. I'm so

sorry.

It's okay.

I understand.

Hang on, excuse me.

Hello? So did you find Joey? Yeah, I found him. So you have the tree?

No, the owner doesn't want to donate it.

What? Did you tell him that all of Chicago is expecting a Christmas tree

lighting ceremony? Get this.

He doesn't care about the tree lighting ceremony.

Excuse me? Right? He doesn't even care about Christmas.

Who is this Grinch? His name's Sam, and he's...

A total grinch.

Well, listen, the Holly I know does not take no for an answer.

You can do this.

You really think so?

Well, you have to. Andrea is not happy and the ceremony is in nine days and we

do not have a backup. Why does everybody keep telling me that?

Okay.

What am I going to do? Focus.

Okay, Christmas is about opening our hearts, right?

So I just have to open his heart to the idea.

There you go. That's the Holly I know. Yeah.

Okay. I'll call you when I have the tree.

Sam.

Yeah. I apologize.

I got ahead of myself, and I'm not even sure that this is the tree.

But I came all this way, and I'd just like to see it. There's no harm in

showing it to her.

Gonna muck up your boots. I mean, it's way back there. Oh.

First rule of growing up on a farm?

Always have sensible shoes.

Wow!

Oh, wow! It's beautiful!

Oh, it's gorgeous!

It's the perfect height!

Perfect height for what?

It's tall enough to stand against the skyscrapers, but short enough to be

trucked through the city.

Wow.

It's absolutely perfect.

I know.

You know, I've been around trees my whole life, and I haven't seen many like

this. It's truly special.

It's right.

Yep. Right here.

Sam, if you were to say yes, your whole family would get to go to Chicago on an

all-expenses-paid trip.

And you guys would be front and center as VIPs at the tree lighting ceremony.

I don't care about being a VIP.

But here's something I do care about.

39 years ago, my mom, Leslie, and my dad, George.

bought this land and carved that down.

All they had was a mortgage and a dream, but this tree represented everything

that they would watch grow.

That's beautiful.

Don't you want to share that story with the world?

Put their love on display for everyone to admire?

No. I want to keep it with my family where it belongs.

What about Joey?

It would mean so much to him.

Well, it would now because he's eight.

But trust me, 20 years from now when this tree's still standing, it'll mean a

lot more to him than him seeing it with some skyscrapers.

Listen, Holly, I admire your tenacity, but maybe the answer's just not.

Oh, there's Amy there. Okay.

I have to... Sorry again.

I really didn't want you to be disappointed.

No, I understand.

It's your parents' tree.

I just think that donating it could be special for your family.

And there's something so moving about bringing joy to so many people.

What's wrong?

I thought Sam had told you.

Told me what?

Our mom passed away last year.

I'm really sorry to hear that.

That's why Sam doesn't want to give away this tree.

Okay, I got it.

I, uh, I'm gonna be on my way.

Hey, Dad, dinner's almost ready.

All right, Joey, I'll be right in.

And I wrote you and you came. You came for a tree.

I have to tell Grandpa.

He didn't think she'd come.

Wait, Grandpa knew about the letter?

Come meet Grandpa.

Okay.

Grandpa, look who it is. Miss Christmas King. Hi, nice to meet you.

Welcome. It's an enigma.

Grandpa just taught me the word enigma. Well, I'm not sure it's an enigma

exactly, but it sure is exciting.

And you're right on time for dinner. Can you stay?

What do you think?

I should get going. No, it's dinner time. And you've come all this way. Let

us feed you.

I made grilled cheese sandwiches.

Kind of.

Thanks, pal.

We made pumpkin pie as well.

Please stay.

Yeah, stay.

Okay. All right.

Yes!

Okay.

Looks so good.

Try the milk. It's from our cows. It's utterly delicious.

Oh, come on, stop being so moo-y. Seriously.

Well, I find it a-moozy.

So,

Miss Christmas.

Oh, it's actually Holly.

Wait, Miss Christmas isn't a real name? What do they call you, then? Well, it's

a nickname my dad gave me.

I grew up on a Christmas tree farm, and I was always Christmas crazy.

And I said Miss Christmas once on air, and it just stuck.

But my real name's Holly.

So, Holly.

You've come for Leslie's tree. Oh What dad you can't say no

grandma loved the tree lining.

Yeah, it's true She did before the kids and Leslie and I used to go to Chicago

every year to see the tree Yeah, and Graham and me watched it every year on

TV. Listen Joey.

I Never heard grandma say that she wanted to give away her tree and if she

wanted to donate it. Well, then why didn't she?

again, I know you really want to see the tree on TV, but

Well, what about after Christmas?

What then?

Um, it'll actually be milled into two-by-fours to provide lumber to build

houses for veterans returning from overseas.

So even after the holidays, Leslie's tree will continue to bring joy to

people.

I meant, then what for us?

Oh. Because then we no longer have a tree. Right.

Sam, I know you don't want to give the tree away.

Of course not.

But it's not just yours to give.

Uh, I don't want to cause any problems, so... There's no problems. The tree

belongs to the family.

It's a family decision.

So, I tell you what, Holly.

Why don't you make your case, and then we'll discuss?

Okay.

Right now?

No, we never discuss business at the table.

Great. We'll meet tomorrow, after milking.

Yes!

Okay.

I gotta head out to the bar for a minute. Excuse me.

I don't know, George. Maybe Sam's right.

Maybe the tree should stay.

Maybe.

But I also have some mighty fond memories of Leslie at the Radcliffe

tree.

The sound of her off-key caroling and the way her face would brighten seeing

it light up.

I think she would have wanted to donate it.

But Sam doesn't agree, and I just don't want to upset anybody.

Don't you worry about my Sam.

He's an enigma.

He is definitely an enigma.

Thank you.

Holly, that tree is perfect.

Yeah, except for I don't have it, and the McNary's might not give it to me.

This tree is flawless, and if anyone can convince him to donate it, it's you.

Maybe.

But just in case, we need to find a backup.

Oh, Andrea, I gotta go.

Okay, Holly, I... It's perfect.

It's great.

Christmas decorations.

Oh. I'm looking for this angel ornament that my mom loved.

It's a Klaus tradition that every child puts a wreath on Main Street for the

opening night of the Christmas Festival. And Joey wants to hang the angel on the

wreath. Oh, okay. Well, I'll help you look.

Okay. Thank you.

Are these all Christmas decorations?

Mm-hmm.

This is my dream come true.

You would have liked my mom.

Family was everything to her. Then musicals. And then Christmas.

She loved Christmas.

She's the one that picked the tree and did the decorating and the baking.

Just hasn't been the same since, you know?

Hey. Listen.

I think I've had enough holiday cheer for a little while.

Yeah, I know.

And I just wanted to apologize for overstepping any boundaries.

Listen, Sam, I'm going to respect your wishes. And if you want me to leave

right now, I will.

Promise? But I want you to know that I understand that your mom's tree isn't

just a tree, okay? And the Radcliffe tree isn't just a tree.

My mom also passed away.

It happened when I was just a baby.

And then my dad raised me until he got sick when I was in college.

He was my very best friend.

And if you can believe it, he actually loved Christmas as much as I do.

Whoa. Yeah, right?

He was...

Mr. Christmas.

Yeah.

Actually, that's exactly what he was.

You know, and every year, with the Radcliffe tree, I get to celebrate my

dad and his love for Christmas and beauty and magic.

I get to feel like he's here with me again.

If I'm being honest with you, I just don't think there's anything you can say

that's going to make me change my mind.

Yeah, doesn't mean I'll stop talking.

I'll listen to your pitch.

Unless that was it. Oh, no.

Unfortunately for you, there's more.

Thank

you.

Hey!

I just saw the picture.

Beyond perfect, right?

Are you talking about the tree or the man? Because yes, he is perfect.

Erin, that's Sam.

The Grinch?

No, you know, he's not really a Grinch. He just hates Christmas.

Maybe more of a Scrooge.

No, he's not really a Scrooge either. He's just... He's just protecting his

family. Protecting his family?

Wait a minute. Do you have feelings for Sam?

What? No.

That's... That's crazy.

Look, we're just, we're really different.

And anyways, I don't know how I could love a man who doesn't like Christmas.

That's true. Yeah.

Anyway, listen, the tree lighting ceremony is in eight days. Can we just

stay focused?

Relax. Don't worry about it. You're going to get the tree. I'm too stressed

to relax right now.

Wish me luck.

I'm rooting for you.

Tree joke. Never mind.

Good one.

Okay, thank you all for coming to my presentation.

And thank you for the cookies.

So I know you watch the Radcliffe Ceremony on TV every year, but many

people don't know its history, so I wanted to share it with you.

And you did all this for us?

I might have had some of it prepared already.

Okay.

In 1930, during the Great Depression... the first Radcliffe Christmas tree was

placed in the plaza for everyone who couldn't afford a tree.

Decorated with gum wrapper garlands and tin cans, it became a centerpiece of the

community.

Neighbors gathered around it, caroled, and shared food.

Since then, every year the Radcliffe Center has had a tree.

And although the trees get more elaborate and spectacular every year, we

never forget what it started as.

A symbol of community.

A place for people to come together.

A gathering spot for families, friends, and neighbors to be cheered, supported,

and marveled, not just in the beauty of the season, but in each other.

Which is what Leslie's tree could be to so many people.

I vote yes.

Holly, this is wonderful.

But I think we need some more time to mull it over.

Could we have more time?

I wish I could give you all the time in the world. I know this is a huge

decision for all of you, but the tree lighting is literally around the corner,

and it takes time to transport and decorate, and in the end, if you say

no... Could you at least give us till tomorrow?

And that way, it'll give us some time.

to ask any questions we might have.

What do you think?

Could you stay a little longer?

I'd love to.

Yes! Great.

Hey, Joey, how about you show me around the Christmas festival?

Come on.

The festival starts in a few days and goes straight through until Christmas.

It's really famous.

People come from all over the world to see it.

All over the Midwest, anyway.

There's music and caroling in a market where people from town sell stuff

they've made.

That's where Santa will be.

And that's where the food is.

Everyone brings something.

Grandma and me used to make the best Christmas cookies.

Grandpa tried last year, but they were like, what do you call them?

Charcoal.

Here's your one. I'll be right back. Okay.

I like claws.

Well, I think you'd like any town that took Christmas this seriously.

But it's good for us. It's good for the businesses. It's good for town morale.

Good for everyone but you.

Why do you dislike Christmas so much?

Oh, do you think you'll stay to the start of the festival? I don't know.

That depends on you.

Right. Although I would love to see it again. Again?

Yeah, I was actually here once as a child. My dad took me.

It was probably about Joey's age.

Really? Because, you know, when I was Joey's age, I remember seeing this girl

with this unhealthy fascination with Christmas.

Well, maybe you were that little boy who tried to pull my pigtails.

Probably. But, you know, boys only tease girls they like.

Oh, hang on. I'm going to be down here. Okay.

Hello? How did the pitch go? Did they say yes? Did we have the tree?

Uh, no, not yet. They responded really well, but they just need another day to

decide. Another day?

Holly, the ceremony is in eight days. We need at least four days to decorate it,

and that leaves us exactly three days to have a tree located, cut, and

transported here. What am I supposed to tell corporate?

Corporate? Yes.

Corporate has gotten involved, and they are not happy.

And I'm sorry, Holly, but...

They said if you don't have a Radcliffe-worthy tree here in Chicago in

three days, then don't bother coming back at all.

Good morning.

What are you doing up this early?

Oh, I'm always up early.

It's just the farmer in me.

What are you doing here?

Oh, we do McNary family breakfast on Sundays.

So I'm always early, I'm always waiting, so I grab coffee and head outside.

Care to join?

You had me at coffee.

Usually from the minute I wake up, it's just go, go, go.

It's so nice to have some time to just breathe.

It's so beautiful here, so peaceful.

It reminds me of home.

Of Chicago?

Oh, no, no. Chicago is where I live, but my family's farm, that was home.

I guess I always figured I'd end up back there.

So why didn't you?

Well, the plan was that I'd get a degree in horticulture and then return home.

My parents had this dream of expanding the farm, and as I got older, it became

a dream of my own, something I wanted to do for myself and for my mom, for her

legacy, especially at Christmas time.

But when my dad passed away, I had to decide between school and the farm.

I was 19 at the time, and the thought of running a business alone just was

terrifying, right? So I sold the land, and...

I got a job at Radcliffe.

Then I moved to Chicago.

Became a city girl.

Yeah, I guess I am just a little bit of a city girl. I do get nervous if I'm

more than a block away from a cup of coffee.

I guess I've grown accustomed to city life.

Sounds to me like you just want to find a place to go at home.

Well, you got anything tying you to Chicago?

Boyfriend?

Uh, no.

No, unfortunately when...

You work as much as I do, it's kind of hard to date.

What about you?

No, no, no, no.

After my divorce, I just... And you know what?

This time for Joey and I just to be by ourselves, it's been great.

Yeah.

But I think we're both ready.

She would just... She would just have to be really special.

Don't worry about it. Don't worry about you don't like my coffee. It's fine. I

got here

Holly! Hi!

Holly? Really?

Hey.

What is all this?

Eggnog French toast.

It's Christmas morning breakfast?

This is our mom's go-to Christmas morning breakfast.

I know, Sam told me. And it turns out that I have a pretty good recipe too.

You sure you don't need some of my help?

Um, yeah, could you burn it for us?

Give me a shot, I'll see what I can do.

Why don't you set the table? Sure. And there's juice that needs a pitcher.

And maple syrup. Got it.

So I just secured the Norway spruce outside of Elkhart Lake

as a backup.

I thought that that tree was ten feet too short.

Well, that's the best backup that I found. Do you have a better option?

No. I'm stumped.

Pun intended.

Don't worry. We won't even use it. The McNary's will say yes.

Well, let's hope so, because if this backup isn't Radcliffe-worthy, I'm

fired.

Oh, I gotta go.

I'm just pretending to be working, but really, I'm wrapping Amy's presents.

How did Amy convince you to do that? Oh, I offered to help. To be honest, I love

gift wrapping. Of course you do.

I actually love all Christmas preparations.

They kind of go all out.

Holly.

I want the tree to go to Chicago.

Really?

That's... That's great news!

Um... Wow!

Um... Can I ask what made up your mind?

Oh, I was... Just thinking about how happy the Radcliffe tree made Leslie.

And how she made everyone around her happy.

Especially at Christmas.

And I think this is one more opportunity.

for Leslie to bring joy to others.

And I know she'd want you to take it.

I gotta go.

The cows are calling.

One, two, three, four. I declare one more.

Hey.

Hi. Hey, we have to take off, but maybe we'll see you tomorrow?

Yeah. But we still haven't found the angel ornament. I know, buddy.

Come on.

I'm decorating our family wreath, and I want us to put all of Grandma's favorite

ornaments on it. The angel was her most favorite.

You guys stay.

I'll head back.

You sure?

Enjoy yourselves.

Oh, wow.

What if we can't find it?

Well, oh.

Okay, I know you have your heart set on the angel ornament, but sometimes when

you're looking for one thing, you end up finding something else just as

beautiful.

That was the first ornament I ever made.

I gave it to Grandma.

You know what? And I bet this was her real favorite.

And I think it's going to look perfect on your family wreath.

Can we decorate the inn?

Sure. Sam can help.

Great.

I can't just sit inside while you guys are out here decorating.

Well done.

Ha ha.

It's beautiful.

It's just like how grandma used to do it.

Let's put the bow up.

Untangling all these lights brought back traumatic Christmas memories for me,

just so you know.

Can you really say you've never enjoyed the holidays?

Not even a little?

Yeah. I haven't always been a Grinch. Aw, you're not a Grinch. You're much

more of a Scrooge.

Um, thanks?

I'll get it. Okay.

This Scrooge actually tolerated Christmas at one point.

Tolerate? How spirited of you.

Hey, you get divorced and your mom passes away, just makes everything, you

know.

Got it? Yeah.

All right, I think we're done.

Let's take a look.

It's perfect!

Oh, nice.

All right, hey, we gotta head home, so why don't you go hop on the truck, okay?

Okay.

I'm gonna start.

Sam, being here with you's been...

Amazing. But I do need to figure this out, and I'm running out of time. I'm

sorry. I've just been dragging my feet.

I'm sure you just want to get back on your way, so... I'm just still on the

fence.

Thanks for helping.

Thank you, Holly.

Joey is so happy and it's so nice to see the inn decorated again.

Between you and me, I think even Sam enjoyed himself.

Me too.

Here.

Wait,

Amy.

Is this the ornament Joey was looking for?

We should tell him so he can put it on the wreath.

Actually, you know where I want to put that?

On my mom's tree.

At the Radcliffe.

Really? Mm-hmm.

I keep thinking of the great memories from the tree.

In the winter, we would collect boughs and make wreaths. Then in the summer, we

would have picnics under the tree's shade.

I'll miss the tree, but it'll be so special to see it in Chicago.

Now you just have to convince Sam, which after today, I don't think will take as

much convincing as I thought.

It's beginning to look a little like Christmas.

So, you've got three out of the four. That's a majority vote.

Well, I want it to be unanimous. I don't want Sam to feel like I stole something

from him.

Well, fingers crossed that he says yes tomorrow.

I mean, he could ask for one more day. It sounds like he just wants to spend

more time with you.

That is not what he's doing.

Although, staying doesn't sound so bad.

The closet's lovely.

And, um...

I'm actually starting to think that maybe the tree should stay.

Maybe it belongs here.

Holly. What?

Turn on the news.

And with a week until the tree lighting, the Radcliffe Center tree is still not

here. The city in a garden might be treeless.

Looks like the heart of America might have lost its Christmas spirit.

Listen, have a great time.

Hey.

Hey. Thanks for coming.

What's going on?

So, I know you need more time to think about the tree, but I also know that I

was just going to spend the whole day working and stressing.

So, I decided, in the spirit of Christmas and slowing down, to take the

day off and partake in some holiday activities.

Uh-oh.

Yeah, I thought maybe you'd like to join me. Is this like a personal mission of

yours to get me to change how I feel about Christmas? This is just a couple

of friends enjoying the holiday season.

Okay, I can do that.

Okay.

No. Oh, yeah. Oh, no.

No, no, no, that's for Taurus. Oh, no, that's for you.

Let's go.

Ryan, seriously?

You in on this?

After you find some. Oh, no, no, no.

After you, Miss Christmas.

This is a first.

Yeah, yeah.

Really? My dad and I used to do this, too.

We'd hand-deliver as many Christmas cards as possible.

Now, this is a very special card.

Why? Because it's from you to me.

And when I get it in the mail, I'm gonna remember this moment.

Cool.

So, I know you said you and your grandma used to bake cookies for the festival.

We're gonna bake Christmas cookies?

Yes, we are.

But first, we're gonna make the hot chocolate to drink while we bake the

cookies. Yes!

Your grandma might have had the best cookie recipe, but I have the best hot

chocolate recipe.

Mmm, okay.

Oh! That's right, we'll be the judges. Oh, it's on.

Let's go.

Okay,

we ready for this? Oh, yeah.

Whoa.

Nice. Yeah.

They're perfect.

Definitely not charcoal.

Did you think they would be?

Maybe. Oh.

Okay, why don't you put the cookies over here.

And we can get started on the icing.

Before

cutting

down trees was the tradition, people used to put evergreen boughs in their

homes.

And the boughs were a reminder that no matter how harsh the winter, spring

would always return.

And that's what a Christmas tree is. A reminder of hope.

Sorry.

It's just so beautiful.

Don't apologize.

I'd like to look at something the way you look at that tree.

Remus trees can look awesome in Chicago.

You know what?

I bet there's a good one right through there.

You wanna go check it out?

Yeah.

Thanks for being so patient.

Claws in your family makes being patient pretty easy.

And honestly, Sam...

Whatever you decide about the tree, I'm just so happy that I came.

Me too.

I found it! I found our Christmas tree!

Yeah, did you get a good one?

It's perfect!

This might work, huh?

Maybe we should ask the tree expert. Well?

Joey, how do you make finding the perfect tree look so easy?

Are you after my job?

I think you're old enough for this now, huh?

Really? Yeah.

Okay, come on. We do long, just smooth, slow strokes, okay? You let the saw do

the work. I hope you get started. Good

job.

All right, here. I think this will do it. Yeah?

That's good, right? Yeah.

Joey, you're a pro.

Thanks. Okay, I have something for you.

Really? Yes.

What?

What is it?

It's an angel.

My mother's family has a tradition of using an angel instead of a star on the

top of the tree.

It's a reminder of everyone we love looking out for us.

It's actually a tradition I brought to the Radcliffe Center.

I have one just like it on my tree.

It's perfect.

I just think it's so beautiful how our mothers have influenced our Christmases.

What do you say, buddy?

Thank you. You're welcome. Thank you. On the farm, we always had a fresh

Christmas tree with roots.

My dad would always say, love is like a Christmas tree. It needs to have roots

and wings.

Well, um, let's get ready for the festival tomorrow.

Okay.

I'll meet you back at the inn. Okay.

Thanks for that.

No problem.

So, uh, was an entire day of Christmas activities just pure torture for you?

Oh, uh, no.

Um... You know, what would you say if I told you it was actually really nice?

Oh. I would say Operation Live Sam's Christmas Spirits is working.

And I had a great day, too. Your family's lovely.

Yeah. And being in Claus makes me feel like... We're home again.

Yeah.

Okay. Yeah. Well, I'm gonna go.

Well, you are overlooking one.

Christmas tradition.

Well, underlicking.

Oh, the vile weed?

And I thought that was just for holiday people.

Well, maybe I'm rethinking my Grinchhood.

All right, I'll be right up.

It's okay.

Good night.

Good night.

Check me out in a sec, right?

Mine's uglier than yours.

No, mine's uglier.

What is going on?

Leslie made them. Every year she tried to make her ugliest sweater yet.

She was...

repeatedly successful.

It's a family tradition.

So what do you think?

I think it's truly, truly ugly.

The ugliest.

Well, don't laugh too soon because... What?

We have one for you.

Oh, yes.

Yeah? Okay.

Where's yours?

Join us.

That's the ugliest.

This has always been my family's favorite day.

I can see why.

I'm so happy you're here. Aw, me too.

This is the best Christmas in a long time. Aw. But I'm actually eight, so I

only remember like the last three Christmases.

We wish you a Merry Christmas. We wish you a Merry Christmas and a Happy New

Year. Good tidings we bring to you and your team. We wish you a Merry Christmas

and a Happy New Year.

Oh, no. No, no. This is... Thanks.

Oh, look at the beautiful scarves.

Hey, ma'am.

Aaron would love this.

What are you going to get your family for Christmas?

Gift certificates.

You know what goes really well with a gift certificate?

A personalized present.

There's only 20 days until Christmas. You better start shopping.

Well, then what would I do Christmas Eve?

Oh, there's your Christmas spirit.

Here you are.

We've been looking for you.

We've been around. Joey's waiting for us to take a picture with Santa.

Oh, let's do that. Here. Okay.

Big smiles.

There we go.

We're up. It's time.

Our turn.

Hi,

Santa.

What are you doing over there? No, no, no. No, Holly, come on. No, no, it's

fine, Holly.

All right, guys, everyone smile for the camera and say Christmas.

Say Miss Christmas.

Miss Christmas.

Okay, who's hungry? Yeah. Are you?

Let's do it. Thank you, guys.

Your picture. Thank you. Merry Christmas. Merry Christmas.

Oh, it's

so delicious.

Okay. Thank you.

Hey,

how's the food? Actually, really

good. What'd you get?

Fruitcake. You hit the healthy table.

Um, Sam, I really don't mean to rush you, but I do need an answer. I know.

When you grow up in Kloss, it's almost like Christmas is a year-round thing.

We're either setting up for the festival or we're recovering from it.

And my mom, she was in the center role.

Growing up, we did everything.

And she made it all so fun.

And then you come along with your ultra-positive, bordering on annoying

Christmas attitude.

And then you tell me that...

Christmas is a time to celebrate the people that you lost.

That it makes you feel closer to them.

That's the spirit of Christmas.

No.

That's you.

And I feel it.

My family feels it. Have you seen them?

I've seen them this happy.

Sorry. It's okay.

Did you mean what you said?

about my mom's tree being a place where people will gather and get together

absolutely it's the center the heart it's a reminder

that that we're not alone that we're home at least that's

what your family has been to me in this short time

Are you sure?

Well, now you look like you don't want it. No, I do. I do.

So, what's going on in here?

Um, I, uh, I just told Holly she could take the tree.

You're saying yes?

Yes, thank you.

Our tree is going to Chicago.

You're going to Chicago.

Even better.

This will be so special.

I'm going to go tell work.

Hi, Andrea.

Holly, please tell me. Yes, we have it. We have the tree. You can schedule

transport for tomorrow because we're going to make it in time.

I knew it. I knew if anyone could do it, it would be you, Holly. Thanks. Although

I wasn't always so sure of myself.

Well, unlike corporate, I never doubted you for a second.

Okay, well, just call me if there are any problems.

I'm with the McNary's, so I gotta go. Okay, great.

That's a relief.

And I am going out there to supervise delivery.

You know, every year I miss Christmas, but this feels like

my first real Christmas in a long time.

Hello?

Hi, did you talk to Andrea? She's gonna be there any minute with transport.

I can't believe you pulled this off.

Me neither.

How's Sam?

I guess I took you up on that new holiday tradition after all. Oh, yeah?

What's that?

Spending the holidays with a special someone.

You and Sam?

That's so great!

Wait, but how's that gonna work?

You guys gonna do long distance?

Actually, I was thinking about staying here.

I mean, I would get the tree and carry us through the tree lighting ceremony,

but after that, I'm thinking about leaving Radcliffe and giving it a

shot out here.

Really? I mean, I know it sounds like I'm rushing into things, but I would not

be doing this for Sam. I'd be doing this for me.

Because, Erin, I finally feel like I'm home.

And this just feels right.

It is a big difference.

Hey. Hi.

But, Holly, you've worked so hard for your job.

You are your job. No.

No, I'm more than this job.

But I am...

so grateful to Radcliffe and everything that it's taught me, but it is time for

me to get out of the city and just get back to my roots.

Look, I'm gonna do what I said I'm gonna do. I'm gonna get this tree, and then

I'm leaving.

I have to follow my heart, and my heart is elsewhere.

I can't pretend.

No, Erin, this is right. I can feel it.

Will you still come visit me in Chicago?

Or am I gonna have to go over there?

Oh, um, can I call you back? I gotta go.

Okay, bye.

Sam, where are you going?

Transformer will be here any minute.

Tell them it's off.

I've changed my mind. You can't have our tree.

What? Yeah, sorry for wasting so much of your time.

I'm... What is going on?

I have to follow my heart, right? Because that's what you do, right? You

follow your heart.

I'm so confused.

I'm not.

Sam, I'm... You know, I can't believe that this was all just a game.

Well, you get close to us, you pretend you're a part of our family, and then...

You know, I can take it. I'm a big boy. But how can you do this to Joey?

He's eight. He's a kid. Sam, being here these past few days has been amazing.

You can drop the whole Miss Christmas act now.

I heard you on the phone.

Talking about how you'll do everything it takes to get that tree.

And then leave.

Sam, I was talking about... Yeah, it's not happening.

Go home.

Holly!

I have transport waiting.

Where's our tree? It's not our tree.

It never was.

But it's okay. We've got a backup.

We're good.

And just so you know, when I said I was going to get the tree and leave, I meant

leave Chicago.

Not here.

Holly.

Holly!

Hey, the backup tree arrived.

It's much taller in person.

Very Radcliffe worthy.

Do you want to come take a look?

No, thanks.

Well, hey, what are you doing tonight? I could come over, we could decorate your

tree. I think I'm just going to skip decorating this year.

Come on, you can't skip decorating.

You're Miss Christmas.

I don't think I want to be Miss Christmas anymore.

Hey.

What's going on?

I don't know.

No, I do know.

I miss her.

It's definitely quieter here since she left.

She makes her presence known, doesn't she?

So what happened?

Messed up.

Fell for her so fast, Dad.

I just, I don't know, I got scared.

That's human.

When I met your mother, I was terrified.

I thought, now that I know this person exists, how can I live without them?

And how do you?

Day to day.

I count my blessings.

You don't have to live without Holly. Go get her.

She doesn't want that.

Well, you don't know until you try.

You know, Sam, about 40 years ago, your mother and I planted that tree.

And she said something to me that I'll never forget.

She said, Georgie, we're going to have our good times and we're going to have

our bad times.

Promise me one thing.

That we keep growing.

Just like that tree.

Love is scary.

But losing love is scarier.

And I'll tell you one thing for sure.

It's worth losing it to have had it.

Holly's a great woman.

And your mother would have loved her.

It's up to you, pal.

I love you, son.

Thanks, Dad.

What are you doing here? I thought you were on a date.

Well, I was, but I'd rather spend time with you.

I brought some edible Christmas cheer.

How much longer do I have to be the cheery one? It is exhausting.

Let's decorate this tree.

Come on. Where do we begin? Let's see. What do we have here?

Smells nice.

That goes on the top. It has to catch the light.

How about this?

Well, the ornaments go on last, okay? It goes lights, and then garlands, and then

ornaments.

It's an order.

Lead the way.

I know what you're doing.

So what's going on with you? Is this about Sam?

Well, yeah.

Mainly. That's also... Being with the McNary's made me realize what's missing.

Made me realize what I want more than anything.

And it's family.

Listen, I love my life. I'm not complaining.

But I just don't have family to share it with.

Well, you have me.

I promise to always be your annoying surrogate sister.

And you do a great job.

But I know.

You want Sam.

I just want a home.

And I want a family.

Well, the Holly I know never takes no for an answer.

Well, the Holly I know is always protecting herself.

Well, you got hurt.

That's life. That's love.

You know?

It hurts sometimes.

But you have to pick yourself up and start again.

We can't give up, especially you.

Because you're Miss Christmas.

What do you always say?

At Christmas time, we have to open up our hearts, even when it's hard.

Especially when it's hard.

Thanks. Aww.

Why don't I pour us a little Christmas cheer?

Okay. And you can decorate the tree.

Talk to Andrea.

Angel's all yours. Yes. Thank you.

Oh, almost forgot. Some fan mail came for you. It's addressed to Miss

Christmas. Who's it from?

I don't know. There's no return address.

Dear Holly, we miss you.

My dad misses you most of all, even though he tries to pretend he doesn't.

He's an enigma, remember?

Come back soon, please.

Sincerely, Joey.

All right, we got a big day today.

You guys ready for this?

Welcome.

Is he here? No, he's running errands till sundown. We spread the word around

town. Sounds like there's gonna be a big crowd.

Perfect. All right, let's get started.

What's in there?

Well, if the tree can't come to Radcliffe, then Radcliffe is gonna come

to the tree.

Wake up, wake up.

Perfect.

Tighter on those strands. Tighter on the strands.

They need to be straight.

Excellent.

Okay, bring out the lady.

Bring out the lady.

Would you?

I'm so sorry.

It looks great.

Watch this.

It's 20 degrees, snow on the trees makes the world look like crystal.

Icicles hang like silver meringue and outside is just blissful. I can't guess

why you aren't ready to go.

How often do we get it when we're playing in the snow?

How is this going to snow day?

Holly, Leslie would have loved this.

Absolutely.

This is the most beautiful tree ever. Just wait until sundown.

How are you going to top this for next year?

I won't.

It's your job now.

What? I spoke to Andrea and we both agree that you are the only one for the

job. Congratulations!

Sam just called.

He'll be home in an hour.

Almost showtime.

What?

Sam!

What's going on?

You're all I've been thinking about.

I am so sorry. It's rude.

It's hurtful. It's okay. I'm terrified of losing you.

Isn't it amazing?

I've never seen anything like it.

I mean, come on, how'd you pull this off? A lot of help.

Your family thought Claus could use a place to gather and...

Thought that this could be part of the festival every year.

Oh.

Every year.

It is unreal.

And I personally think it's just as perfect as the Radcliffe tree. I don't

know.

No, no. It's even more perfect because of who's around it.

Listen,

everyone, thank you.

My mom was...

The most nurturing person ever.

And I always thought she was one of a kind.

And then I met someone who has the same spirit.

Holly.

Miss Christmas to all of you.

You are everything Christmas stands for.

Which is simply giving to others.

And this is just one more example because...

The only reason that we're all here together now is because of you.

So, welcome everyone to the first Claus Christmas Streetlight.

Mom's never said anything like that to me before.

Oh, I'm not done.

Unfortunately for you, there's more.

You said to me that Christmas was about opening your heart.

Which is easier said than done.

But you opened mine.

And I want to say thanks.

You still thinking about leaving the Radcliffe Center?

I already left.

What? Yeah.

I'm kind of homeless.

No, you're not.

Yeah, when I got back to Chicago, I realized I didn't want to find the

Radcliffe tree. I want to grow it.

Well, you know, Klaus doesn't have.

Christmas tree farm. And we actually have the room for it.

And as for growing the Radcliffe tree, maybe this is a good start.

In 50 years, we can donate it.

It actually takes 80 years to get big enough, but... Yeah, but we can watch it

grow together.

How did you know I was coming?

Well, one, if you weren't, I was coming to get you.

But two... Holly, can I borrow you a moment?

Sure. Okay.

Last night, we had the tree lighting at Chicago's Radcliffe Center. Tonight,

Radcliffe has come to Claus, Wisconsin.

And here we have Miss Christmas to tell us how that happened.

Well, it all started with a letter from a really special boy named Joey.

And he's here. Can he join us? Of course. Okay, Joey.

Hi,

Joey. So you wrote a letter to donate this tree to the Radcliffe Center?

Yep. I wanted the whole world to see my grandma's trees.

And guess who mailed the letter?

Okay, well, I guess we're ready for the main attraction.

When I wrote the second letter, I just closed the tree and crossed my fingers.

Okay,

buddy.

Go ahead.

Go for it. Oh, yeah.

All right, should we count it down? Yeah.

Three, two, one.

I don't want to deck the halls.

Why aren't you looking at the tree?

Because I finally found something to look at the way you look at that tree.

Merry Christmas.

Merry Christmas.