Original subtitles

20 Minutes until the mall closes.

Don't miss your last chance to meet Santa!

Only 6 more days before Christmas and remember...

Jesus is the reason for the season!

All this hustle and bustle and shopping is crazy.

It's official...

This is the least Christimasy Christmas ever.

Oh Ariel-

Oh my goodness, there it is!

I need this purse more than anything in the world.

I've never even seen you with a purse.

Because I've been waiting for this one.

Well, I hope you're crossing something else off of

that very long list of yours.

No, I need everything on it.

You don't need everything on it.

Plus, didn't you just get a huge promotion?

Jasmine!

Ariel's promotion is not

a direct correlation for a Christmas gift.

Why not? It's not like she has anyone to spend it on.

It's not like she has a boyfriend.

Hey, she will find Mr. Right.

Sure about that?

Someday.

Mm-hmm.

I don't know if the right guy exists for Ariel.

Yes, he does. He exists. He does.

So... what are we looking for?

Someone smart...

Good.

- And affectionate... - Good.

- Someone loyal... - Exactly.

Someone who makes lists of people that we're gonna visit,

not thingsthat he wants.

Okay well that guy doesn't exist yet so...

my last exam is tomorrow at the ungodly hour of 8 am

so I will meet you here at 11.

Wait, why?

You have 5 days to get your Christmas shopping done!

I don't want to spend the holidays shopping.

Okay truce, truce...

Seriously each year I just wish that we'd

make Christmas about spending it with the ones we love. - Hello!

You know, sitting by the fire, baking cookies.

I wish we could just make ornaments and sing songs.

Well, we already have ornaments,

and you can't even sing.

Seriously, I don't want Christmas

to be about shopping lists.

Girls, listen to me.

Christmas is what we make it.

Mm-hmm.

I am so sorry I didn't see you.

Are you okay?

Oh yes, I'm fine.

I couldn't help but overhear your wish.

My wish?

Uh-huh.

Oh right, Santa.

Well maybe you should speak to my sister

about her Christmas list.

Oh no, I don't do that sort of thing anymore.

All the stores and online shopping has really

put us out of business.

Now I specialize in things that you can't get from a store.

I'll do my best to give you the kind of Christmas you wish for.

But Ariel, your mother's right.

Some of the responsibility lies with you.

Christmas iswhat you make it.

Well I'm afraid I must go, I'm late.

Good day.

Bye Santa!

Bye! Ho, ho, ho!

Santa... how'd you know my name?

That's it! I have an idea!

I'll do it!

You just give me your credit card,

and I will shop for everyone...

including myself...

and I'll even wrap everything.

Oh.

What? It's a great idea!

That is not a great idea.

Okay, just listen and hear me out.

What if your sister's right?

And what if we don't have presents this Christmas?

Mom, seriously?

Yeah!

And maybe... would that be so bad?

Easy for you two to say.

You both have jobs and money.

I am a college student and therefore broke.

Christmas and birthdays are when I stock up on things.

Okay, well what about the people in need?

What about the people who have less than us?

Ihave less.

Ineed things.

Oh, here... Hold on...

Erica?

Who's Erica?

I don't know.

Tomorrow, seriously?

Absolutely, yes I can be there before noon.

Thank you, thank you, thank you!

The mall will be closing in 5 minutes.

We are gonna have the best Christmas ever!

How's that? What's going on?

I can't tell you, but it's a surprise

and you're gonna love it.

I got to get back to work,

I'll see you after Erica tomorrow!

Who's Erica?

It's a secret!

Hey, what about my purse?

Oh, sorry!

Are you gonna get me the purse?

Not a chance.

A surprise? Maybe a Christmas bonus?

Mr. Huckabee!

Come in.

Mr. Huckabee was my father.

Please call me Jeremy.

I'm giving you the new online Christmas

morning feature article.

Really?

Yes.

Oh!

Oh.

Bring on the Grinch, eh?

Amazing huh?

It's definitely something different.

Exactly!

I want to shake things up!Uh-huh.

This is not my father's magazine anymore.Uh-huh.

This is a modern publication.Uh-huh.

Shouldn't I be writing something

more heartwarming for the Christmas issue?

I would like to expand our artistic range, Ariel.

All of the sweet and happy stuff gets

rather well, you know, boring.

But the magazine is called "Sweet Home."

Besides, people love reading happyChristmas stories!

People love sensational stories,

and I love money.

And this right here is money.

Ariel, all you have to do is find someone who hates Christmas

and write about them.

Mr. Huckabee... Jeremy...

I don't know if I'm the right person for thisjob.

I have faith in you.

In my hands by Christmas Eve.

It's going to be a stunning article!

Yeah, one that youshould clearly be writing.

Oh, it's perfect!

Low power?

Oh... Charger, charger...

Really?

I love it so much.

Merry Christmas, Erica!

Here's your keys!

Seriously, it's mine?

Mm-hmm.

As soon as you complete on the sale,

you are the proud owner of Mountain Holly Cottage!

I brought a cashier's check.

- Great! - Thank you so much.

This means more than you know.

There wasa little hiccup a few days ago,

but it all got sorted out.

Oh yeah? Yeah.

There was another buyer who reallywanted the place,

but I knew your top price and so I worked the deal

until you won the bid.

Apparently with room to spare.

Ooh, careful of the candy canes...

they mark the property line.

I cannot wait to see the inside!

Oh my, it's breathtaking!

I can't believe it was on the market

for such a great price.

It's an amazing space.

Don't you just love it?

It's fully furnished which is great so you won't have to

replace it before Christmas.

You can just picture a Christmas tree here.

I can't wait to show my family.

They're gonna love it!

Turkey in the oven...

Everyone sitting by the fireplace making

decorations while sipping apple cider

after a day of snowshoeing...

while trimming the tree.

I made an itinerary.

Here we are!

Oh!

Uh, who are you?

I'm Erica Holden with Equity Homes Realty.

This is my client.

I'm afraid this place sold this morning.

Yes it did...

to me!

I'm sorry, that's impossible.

I have the papers right here.

Perhaps I can help you with that.

I'm Nick Sage with...

And you are in my client's cottage.

What?

What?I'm not sure I can easily explain what happened-

Oh, let me try.

It looks like you bothbought this place.

Well how is that possible?

It looks like both offers were accepted.

Well how much did you pay?

You both paid the same amount.

Okay you know what, why don't we just call the seller's agent

and I'm sure we can just clear this up.

That's the problem. There is no seller's agent.

What do you mean?

He is a sweet elderly man who for some reason

sold this place without an agent.

Well, why don't we call

that sweet, elderly gentlemen and ask him

who he'd rather sell to.

I'm the obvious choice.

And how's that?

No offense but between the two of us...

I belong here.

Besides, I'm made for cottage life.

Right because this clearly says

"I love the outdoors."

I'll call the title office and

see if we can clear this up.

And I'll go help and be not here.

A skylight here would be nice.

Yeah, bring a little bit more natural light.

Yeah, especially in the mornings.

You really love this house, huh?

I do.

Maybe after I move in, I'll talk to a professional

about a skylight.

Well, you arethough.

Pardon?

Talking to a professional.

You're a contractor?

Oh my gosh, of course.

You're already thinking of how to turn this into like

a strip mall or a condo, right?

I know your type.

My type?

You're just wanting to flip it.

You don't deserve it, sorry.

Well for a second there, I was thinking of

letting you have it but now... no way.

So unfortunately there isn't a whole lot we can do.

Mr. Noel doesn't remember which agreement he signed first.

According to the land title office it comes down to...

basically possession is 9/10ths of the law.

What? What?

So Ariel this is Mark.

Mark this is Ariel.

No, no... why are you-

I don't want to know this guy's name,

I want him out of my house.

Ditto, I mean what kind of name is "Ariel" anyway?

You can't leave,

this guy is completely unreasonable. Ha!

See what I mean?

All the more reason to come to a conclusion quick.

Umm-hmm.

- Uh, what are you doing? - I'm going home.

In the morning I'm gonna call a lawyer to deal with all of this.

Good idea, I'm gonna do the same.

Oh I don't think you guys understand.

The whole 9/10ths of the law means whichever one of

you leaves the property first...

forfeits your right to it.

We have to stay here?

Yes... negotiate!

No, no, no, no... can't we... can't we...

at least go get stuff?

I thought you were made for cottage life?

I mean like food and...

toilet paper.

Can you go back to my place and get me a few basics...

You know like moisturizer and mascara

and maybe a few groceries.

Yeah you know what?

I think I need a few staples too for like say a couple

days or a week.

A week?!

Did you say a week?

Yeah.No.

If you don't decide in a week,

the owner will put this cottage back on the market-

With the condition that neither one of you can purchase it.

Those were his terms.

What about your commission, yeah?

Don't you want to stay here and make sure that I get it?

Funny thing-

We actually both get a full commission.

Merry Christmas to us!

What?!

Oh don't forget... You cango outside...

but just be mindful of where the property line ends

between the reindeer and the candy canes.

Yeah, the offer expires on the day after Christmas so...

may the best person win!

Oh um...

And watch out for the bears.

Bears?

How am I supposed to get any work done here?

Looks like you've got everything you need

and there iselectricity just in case you were wondering.

Umm-hmm, very funny.

I mean how am I supposed to do research?

Well I suggest you get in your car and you

drive two hours thatway.

You wish.

Alright, let's figure out sleeping arrangements.

How does your boyfriend or husband feel about you

spending the night with me?

I'm not spending the night with you.

Besides, I don't have a husband or boyfriend.

Nor do I.

You know you're going to have to work a lotharder

if you want to wear me down.

Oh, well I guess we'll have to wait and see.

I'm taking this room.

Oh, what if I want to sleep in here?

Well possession is 9/10ths of the law and... oh look!

I'm inside.

Yeah?

Hey little brother, where are you?

I'm in your office.

Great. Is dad still there?

Hang on.What do you need?

I've got Mark on the phone; he says

he has got a surprise for us.

Hey Dad.Hey, son.

Trevor, Dad, pack your overnight bags, you're coming up

- to your cottage. - Our cottage?

Yes, I'm keeping my promise but...

But what?

Yeah, about that... you are never gonna believe this.

So I'm gonna need you guys to help me like wear her down.

Hey, so what's she like?

I don't know...

She's pretty...

Kind of a smarty-pants...

Pretty...

Sounds like your type!

Yeah she does.

Okay son, we'll leave

first thing in the morning.

Awesome, alright!

Oh! This isn't the bathroom.

No, that'd be the one with the sink.

"Don't use, water is shut off."

One towel?

Dibs.

Hey! What's the problem?

The water isn't on, and I need water.

Go turn it on.

I looked in the bathroom and the shut-off valve isn't there.

Oh, it must be under the house.

Okay, I'll wait.

Hmm, this looks like a good book.

What are you doing?

What does it look like?

"Marley was dead to begin with,

there is no doubt about that whatsoever."

Ugh, that's sad.

Look...

The way I see it, you have two options...

You can get in your car, go home to your working bathroom

and you know whatever Christmas festivities that you do

which is my recommendation...

Or you can stay here and look outside for the shut-off valve

with the bears.

You're not a very nice guy, are you?

I'm verynice.

The way I see it...

sooner or later, you're gonna need to use the bathroom too.

I'll wait.

Fine.

Have you seen any flashlights lying around?

It's daylight.

Yeah, but it's dark under the house and you gotta give

the snakes a chance to scatter.

Snakes?!

Yeah, loads of them.

Oh my...

There might be one in my car.

Okay, good. Let's go.

Let me get my winter stuff.

Almost...

Just a little farther...

Got it!

Nice try.

It's gonna take more than that!

Is that a snake?

No.

A bear?

No, not really.

Oh.

Are there really snakes and bears out here?

Oh yeah.

But don't worry, I'll protect you.

Really?

I mean I'll probably negotiate something first,

but yeah probably.

Do you see any snakes?

Okay.

That's it?

That's it.

Thanks.

Um...

I just remembered something, hold on.

I've got some food in the car.

Thank you.

It's not much but at least it's something.

No, thank you for sharing.

You didn't have to.

Well, I couldn't leave you hungry.

Starios, right?

You're from Charlotte too?

Best marinara!

Yeah.

So are you uh... ready for Christmas?

No.

I mean I'm not a grinch or anything.

Bring on the Grinch!

I just...

I'm not really into Christmas.

All you have to do is find someone who hates

Christmas and write about them.

Really? How come?

I used to like it...

anyway I don't want to talk about it.

Okay.

How 'bout you? What do you do?

You said you were working on an article?

Are you a writer?I am.

I work for "Sweet Home" magazine.

Oh, interesting.

And you said you had some research you were doing?

Yeah.

How's that going?

You know...

I may have found another way...

So I won't have to get in my car and drive home.

Oh... good, good.

Yeah.

So what made you want to buy this place?

Well, it's not really for me as much.

It's mainly for my family.

I'm only here for 3 more weeks

and then I go to Australia for 2 years.

Wow!

I'm an on-site architect for a building

my brother and I designed.

Wow again.

So you're not a contractor.

I mean I was.

My father has been a contractor for 30-plus years,

and I was following in his footsteps.

But, you know, he had better plans for my brother and I.

Nice.Yeah.

Yeah this job in Sydney's like a dream come true for me.

I really can't wait.

Um, hey can I use your phone?

Mine's dead.

Really?

So is mine.Really?

You were just talking on it like 30 minutes ago in your room.

No. No, I don't think so.

You must have heard me talking to myself.

Well did you bring charging cables?

No. No, I didn't.

Oh, okay.

I see what's goingon here.

You probably called your family and they are on their way.

Hey, I wasn't finished.Well, I am!

I can't believe I shared my only meal with you,

you ungrateful person you!

I wasgrateful until you took it away.

You can towel off using toilet paper.

I get dibs on the only towel.

I hope you miss Christmas.

I hope you miss Christmas!

I heard you the first time, grinch!

Oh, she's so pretty.

It's me. Listen, I need your help.

Hey! Oh!

Whoa!

That's twice I've saved your life now.

Well technically the first time I was in

no real danger.

Well, you thought you were.

I found these in my closet.

Shouldn't they go on a tree?

Well, we don't have one so I'm improvising.

You really like Christmas, don't you?

That and maybe I can Christmas you out of here.

Nah, I'll just ignore it.

So what is with you and Christmas anyway?

It's complicated.

Well maybe if you weren't such a grouch

spending it alone...

Who says I will?

Mark, we're here!

No phone, huh?

Now who could that be?

Dad! Hey, what do ya think?

This is good,right?

Lookin' good!You too!

Come on in.

You're gonna love this place.

Make yourselves at home.

Ariel...

Hi! And you are?

I'm Duke.Nice to meet you.

- This is my son, Trevor. - Hi, nice to meet you.

And if course you know my other son.

I do.

Forgive my son.

What do you mean?

Everyone can see you belong in this place.

Oh...

- You're not helping. - Sure he is!

Come on in, I'm so glad you came.

I wish I could offer you something,

but all we have is jam.

Well let's see if we can fix that.

Wow!

What all did you bring?

We uh Hendersons may not look it but we can cook.

Well Mark's not very good but Trevor and I can hold our own.

We hope he learns overseas.

Mark was talking about Australia.

Well really Ishould be the one who's going.

Oh?

Trevor is also an architect.

They worked on the designs together and now Trevor wants

to go almost as badly as Mark does.

This is a lovely cottage here, Ariel.

It suits you.

Dad!

You must be starving. Come on, let's unpack.

Oh, this won't do.

Homemade cookies for Christmas.

You need that.

Well if you make 'em, we'll eat 'em!

Dad, what are you doing?

Problems?

No, everything's just fine.

She's the enemy,okay?

What are you doing helping her?

We aren't gonna starve her out on Christmas, are we?

Pantry!

Uh, seems like your plan kinda backfired, huh?

- Look at that! - It's gorgeous!

It's beautiful!

Ariel!

You used my cord to charge your phone, didn't you?

How could I?

You didn't bring one.

Now who could that be? Mom! Dad!

Oh! Hi!!!

It's so beautiful!

This looks amazing!

Oh my gosh! Honey grab that.

We canceled all our plans to be here.

Well played.

Oh! This is beautiful! Honey, it is gorgeous!

Are you sure she's the enemy?

Oh my goodness! This is amazing!

It's beautiful!

Ariel, I love it!

Hello!

Mom, Dad, Jasmine...

these are the Hendersons.

This is Trevor and his father, Duke.

So very nice to meet you, Duke.

Hi.

And this is Mark.

- Hi. - Hi!

These are my parents... Peter and Amy Colt,

and my sister, Jasmine.

Hey!

Ariel and Jasmine?

Eh, it's a thing.

- Trevor. - What?

If we'd had a son,

his name would have been "Snow White."

"Aladdin."

It's a pleasure to meet you.

Looks like we're gonna be spending Christmas together.

Glad you're all here.

Let's get ready for Christmas!

Come on!

Let's see what we've got over here.

Be careful, it's heavy.

We have enough food to feed an army.

We have bacon in a bucket.

What are you doing?

They're gonna ruin our Christmas.

- Okay, hmm... - Ooh, pantry.

No, I'm not working on it

because it is a terrible idea.

So you play guitar?

Yeah, you?

Kind of. I mostly sing.

Cool, I'll bet you know this one here.

Oh, you've got to be kidding me.

I don't get it, I thought this is what you wanted.

Yeah, not until Christmas Eve and not like this.

Oh, the timing's off.

I got to go join them, I'm so sorry.

I thought you loved Christmas.

I do.

That was good, guys.

What's the matter?

Did your plan backfire?

Oh whatever.

I'm gonna get some fresh clothes.

Who's the grinch now?

This is terrible.

Oh, hey!

I didn't know you were in here.

I can play Jingle Bells sort of... almost...

Is it too late to add a guitar to my Christmas list?

What are you doing?

Just working.

Well...

Well, Mom wants us to find some pinecones...

Something about making a centerpiece.

I figured you'd be all over that, you know?

Making and not buying.

What are you writing?

"Behind a charming and attractive facade lies a grouchy man.

We'll call him Mark the grinch."

Wait, Mark? ThisMark?

Jeremy sprung an assignment on me last-minute.

It's due Christmas Eve.

And you're using Mark as your subject?

He doesn't like Christmas? - Nope.

Huh.

Does Mark know that you're writing about him?

Nope.

Well, let's hope he doesn't read "Sweet Home" magazine.

Ugh...

Hey!

Hey.

Mind if I sit down?

Be my guest.

Hmm...

I hope you two don't reach an

agreement until afterChristmas.

How come?

I know you're both doing your best

andyour worst to get this place

but putting that all aside

I think this will be

very good for Mark.

What do you mean?

I think he likes you.

No way.

We couldn't be more different.

I don't happen to agree with that.

But in any case, it's good for him to be around happy people.

So why doesn't he like Christmas?

It wasn't always the case,

he used to love it.

So then what happened?

His mom, my wife...

passed away 6 months ago

so this will be the first

Christmas without his mother.

I'm sorry, I didn't know.

Oh, thank you.

I've tried talking to him about it but...

he was always closer to his mother.

Maybe he'll talk to you.

Uh...

Hi, Kathy.

Are you serious?

I'm not scheduled to be in Australia for

another two and a half weeks.

No, no... don't cancel, I'll make it happen.

Yes. No, I'll be there.

Okay, I'll leave on the 25th.

Merry Christmas.

Was that Kathy?

Yeah, the uh...

investor is arriving 2 weeks early to approve the designs.

What the- That's Christmas.

I know.

And you have to be there for that?

Yeah, apparently.

I tried to push it but it was just-

Mark, this our first Christmas without Mom.

Do you think I want to miss it?

You can't say "no?"

No... Not really, I mean it's...

Look, this is our first job with them.

I feel like this could really help transition us

to designing signature buildings.

You know, I can't decide if you're doing this because

all you care about is your career or because it's just

easier for you to just bail on Christmas.

Look... just make sure he's okay.

Give me a minute.

Yeah.

I'm sorry, this is not what...

Can I-

No, I'm okay.

Thank you.

What'd you say to him?

Nothing.

Well this just means that all you have to do is bide

your time until Christmas and the place is yours.

I guess.

Are you sure? I can sleep on a couch.

Or me. I don't mind.

No, no, no.Thanks.

Um, I was gonna get some work done.

Now?

Yeah, yeah just a bit. Alright.

What's going on?

They want him there on the 27th.

That means he has to leave on Christmas.

Yeah.

I haven't eaten like this since I graduated.

My goodness, beautiful! Beautiful!

You guys, I don't remember the last time I slept so well.

These are so good, Mrs. Colt.

Oh, I'm so glad you're enjoying them!

Please call me "Amy," his mother's "Mrs. Colt."

What's in it?

Oh she will never tell you.

Isn't that right, Hummingbird? - That's right, Honeybunch.

So you guys, I have an idea.

My great-grandparents are from Germany and they celebrated

Christmas on the 24th.

- That's true, when we were kids

we used to go their house on Christmas Eve.

So I was thinking this year,

maybe we could do the same and celebrate on the 24th.

Whole turkey dinner with all the fixin's?

Yeah, what do you think?

Yeah, that would be awesome!

Sounds great!

Mark?

Sure.

That's a wonderful idea, sweetheart.

Alright, you don't have to ask me twice!

All we need is a Christmas tree.

- I brought an axe! - We own an axe?

Seriously!

- How far is the lake from here? - Couple miles I think.

You know what?

Regardless of who gets this cottage,

you and me... we should come out fishing.

Now you're speaking my language!

What do you think we could find out here?

Catfish mostly.

What do you think?

I'm thinking this spring, we could hunt down

some nice rainbow trout.

Hmm.

How long has Ariel been looking to buy a cottage?

To be honest, I didn't know she was.

So why do you think she wants to get one?

I think it has less to do with that cottage,

and more to do with the kind of Christmas she wants.Oh?

My parents made a huge impression on her and their

stories became kind of a blueprint for her.

I just worry that she'll miss out on her perfect Christmas

by trying re-create my mother's.

Hmm, yeah.

This one.

- Are you sure it's gonna fit? - Of course.

- Maybe we should look for a smaller one.

- Come on, Dad. This is it! - Well, start chopping then!

Trevor? Trevor!

Trevor! Trevor, Trevor...

What's up?

I have an idea, and I need your help.

Come on, let's go!

Okay, he's all yours Dad.

We'll make it fit. Follow me.

Alright!

No, I don't understand.

I thought you wanted me to find someone who

didn't like Christmas.

Ariel, I'm looking to do a piece on people who don't even

stop for Christmas.

- Uh-huh? - I'm lookin for a grinch

- Um-hmm. - A Scrooge and

what you sent me was soft.

Of course... No, I'm stone cold, yes.

Ariel- Ariel: I'm cutthroat.

Something that people would want to click on,

so don't pull any punches.

Now can you do this or do I need to get someone else?

No! I agree one-thousand percent.

Yeah, thank you.

Jeremy, leave me alone.

In my pocket you go.

Everything okay?

Yeah, except we need to make more decorations.

Let's do it!

Where's the basket?

So this one then, right?

But don't touch the mold because you don't want that.

Okay, l can we have everyone's attention please?

Christmas as you know wouldn't be complete without presents so-

I think you're really gonna like this one, sis.

Yes. Jasmine and I have prepared a little

Secret Santa game and participation is mandatory.

As are the rules about the presents.

It must be handmade and found within

the bounds of the property.

And no swapping!

Okay!

- Okay, is everyone ready? - Let's do it!

- Cool. - Let's do it!

If you pull your own name, let me know.

Good choice there.

Alright, I won't look.

No cheating.

- Don't tell. - I'm not cheating!

Thank you, very much.

Pick something good, something good.

Indeed.

Of course, one for me.Right.

Okay.

You know, if you get me you can just skip making me a present

and give me the cottage now.

Not a chance.

Besides why are you counting me out?

It's Christmas.

I hear miracles can happen.

Yes.Bravo.

I know that face.

It's my assignment.

What the Christmas feature?

If you can call it that.

Oh, right.

Jeremy wants me to write something that if I don't

I could lose my promotion.

Or even my job.

But you don't want to write it.

I don't know.

Well...

I know you'll do the right thing.

Because you always do.

Oh, they're done.

Ha, ha, ha, ha!

They're perfect.

Are you using this?

No, no, no. It's all yours.

I didn't know you baked.

What are you making?

Sorry, trade secrets.

Uhhh.

Hey, how's that Christmas present going?

Good.

So what are you gonna make for her?

No idea.

Wait, wait, wait.

How did you know?

Don't tell me you and Jasmine have been

playing match-maker, man.

No, no!Good!

Us?

Yeah, good because you know that we don't like each other.

Right, right.

Okay.

Though, I was wondering why you wouldn't let

her see your drawings.

Your trade secret drawings.

You like this girl.

No, no I don't.

Yeah, yeah you do.

No I don't.Yes you do.

I don't.Yes you do.

You do!

Even if I did he doesn't like me.

In my opinion-Shut up.

Shut up.

No I don't.

Mmm-hmm, are you sure about that?

Wait, why?

Did he say something?

Ah-ha! You do like him.

You like him.

You like him.

Morning.

Oh sorry, I didn't mean to wake you.

I just-No, I should be up anyway.

Coffee?

I suppose coffee is safe.

You mean among enemies?

Exactly.

I think it's pretty safe.

Mugs?

Actually you know what? No.

If I'm gonna own this place I should know where things are.

So how do you like your coffee?

Black, please.

Black it is.

One cup of black coffee.

Thanks.Mmm-hmm.

So, what do you miss most about being stuck here?

Uh you mean right now?Yeah.

You're gonna think it's silly.

But there's this angel tree topper and each Christmas

we take turns on whose gonna put it on top of the tree.

And this year it was your turn?

I told you it was silly.

No, it's not.

It's actually really sweet.

So what about you?

What do you miss most?

Well if it wasn't for all of this,

it'd actually be pretty perfect.

Do you want breakfast?

I thought it would be good to install a skylight

in my parents' roof to watch the sun rise.

I hid it forever until one day my mother came home from work.

She opens the car door the second I prop open the skylight.

Seriously? Yeah.

Who knows how long I could've had that thing in the house

without anybody knowing.

How old were you?14.

Wow, and what'd you dad say?

He said, "Son, you did everything right."

The hinges, the flashing.

I think he was a little proud of me.

So did he let you keep it?

Uh, sort of.

As punishment he claimed it as his den and I moved into

whatever was his study.

I like your laugh.

Oh, sorry.

Hello?

This is Mark.

I see.

Okay.

Thanks for checking.

Okay, bye.

That was my lawyer.

I checked to see whether my dad could sit in for me when I was

out of town, since I was buying the house for him.

But he said since it's my name on the offer, he can't.

Maybe not everybody knows this but I have to get on a plane

Christmas morning, which means I need to leave tomorrow...

after dinner.

So whether it's now or tomorrow I'll need to forfeit my claim.

Dad, Trev -- I think we should leave now and leave the Colts

to enjoy the holidays in peace.

Guys, let's pack.

C'mon.

I'm sorry.

I don't mean to be that guy, but if we get home tonight

we still might be able to get some turkey or something.

Mr. Henderson...

I think you and your family should stay.

She's right.

You should stay.

I mean, we're in this together right?

Yeah.

I have to leave right after dinner tomorrow.

It's okay.

You guys can stay for Christmas.

The more the merrier!

We have a tree and turkey, and... new friends

to share them with.

Okay, I guess.

Thank you, wow.

Was that so difficult?

Dad, are you sure?

I don't want you to feel like I'm leaving you here with,

you know, strangers.

These people aren't strangers.

They're almost like family now.

And you know what?

You kept your promise.

No, I didn't.

But one day I'm gonna make sure of it.

Son, look around.

You did better than make good on it.

So you're writing more than you used to?

Wow.

How does that like, affect your workload?

Well basically I just write more than I used to.

And I help Jeremy.

Mmm.

You know, it occurs to me in all the years that I've worked for

Sweet Home Magazine, you've not once asked about my job.

So, why the sudden interest?

Can't a sister just show interest?

Yeah, a sister can.

Not sure you can.

Hey, that is entirely uncalled for and mean.

And also true.

But... wait...

can you just explain to me one more time what the difference

is between a Junior Editor and a regular Editor?

Because you know, I'm really interested.

Well a Junior Editor does less actual story editing

and a regular Editor improves the structure and

the flow of an article.

You know?Oh wait, so for instance...

what do you mean by structure and flow?

Okay Jas, there's like zero chance you actually care about

this so... what's going on?

Nothing.

Wait, wait, wait, wait...

you can't go out there.

Why?

What's going on out there?

Yes, make sure you just fill it in and stick it together.

Okay.

How long do you think Jasmine can keep Ariel in the bedroom?

Not very long, you better get to crackin'.

Do you think she's gonna like it?

I've never designed anything with dough before.

Listen, she's gonna love this.

This is so up her alley; it's perfect.

Thank you for letting us stay here.

Yeah.

Please.

We wouldn't have it any other way.

And it's possible that I've not seen Ariel this happy

at Christmas since she was a little girl.

Hey...

How about I take this to my room and let it set up?

Yes, please, that'll be great.

I think it needs a bit more work.

You have a little bit more to go.

You look very comfortable doing that.

Well, I love to cook and bake.

Well you can tell.

My wife Sally was a great cook.

Yeah?

What was her favorite Christmas recipe?

Oh...

She used to make this sweet potato mash with

pecans and raisins.

M'm, that sounds good.

Oh, always a favorite.

The boys ate it like dessert.

They'll miss it.

Were the pecans candied?

I don't know, they were sweet and crunchy, so maybe.

Yeah, sounds like it.

She had this secret ingredient.

She didn't tell us, I've tried everything but...

it's not it.

Well, what did it taste like?

Hard to describe.

Fresh like the morning sun.

So what else goes in there?

Oh that's it for now.

It'll sautee and then we'll add the consumee,

the sage and some cornbread.

So fancy.Mmm-hmm.

So why didn't Mark follow in your footsteps?

He did at first.

But he's smart.

Smarter than a lot of the architects we worked with.

So now we work on his designs.

Well that's nice.

And he pushed Trevor to go to college too.

At first Trevor didn't want to, but Mark didn't give up.

Hey Mr. Henderson?Hmm?

Do you know why Mark wanted to buy you this cottage?

Before she died he made a promise to his mother.

We used to have a cottage.

We'd spend the holidays there every Christmas.

And when Sally got sick...

We had to sell it to pay for her treatments.

A few weeks before she died

she made the boys promise to find me a cottage

again for Christmas.

All good over here.

Go, go...

Are you ready?

Ready.

Ready.

No?

Mmm, no.

Okay.

No.

Okay, got it.

One last shot.

That's it!

Unbelievable.

Oh my gosh.

Good!

Sally's smiling down.

Oh boy.

Incredible.

I think you should go outside.

Go away.

Hey.

How's your story coming?

Great, actually.

Can I help?

No, no I've got this.

So I hear I should get a skylight.

Yeah.

Hey, when you all leave-

How come you're doing this?

So you don't fall off the porch.

Plus you were nice to us.

Twice now.

And I figured you deserved some nice back.

Well, thank you.

And it's Christmas.

I knew you'd notice.

You want to look for more decorations?

Yeah, let me put on something warmer.

Thank you.

I didn't want you to miss Christmas, even though

I know you don't like it.

Well...

it's good for my family to be around happy people.

They need that, especially my dad.

What about you?

What do you need?

I don't know.

What I need you can't buy in a store.

Mark, I know you miss your mom.

I'm so, so sorry about what happened to her.

But I'm certain that she wouldn't want

you to hate Christmas.

Christmas is a time for hope, forgiveness, peace on earth,

good will to men.

Look, nothing's ever gonna replace her, not ever.

She was awesome.

My first memories of Christmas was waking up to

the smells of her cooking.

Her baking.

She used to bake a month before Christmas.

The entire neighborhood would smell like her cookies.

Look, right now because of our fathers and your brother

the place smells like a Christmas tree.

And tomorrow, it'll smell like turkey, fried okra,

cornbread dressing, yeast rolls, 'cranberry sauce,

green bean casserole and homemade pecan pie.

And that... that is your dad's homemade mountain apple cider

that he's been simmering all day long.

He loves you so much.

We're all here for you.

And that's how...

Done and... sent.

Huh, still needs something.

I know, there are no more pinecones, I checked.

I didn't know you were up.

It's almost Christmas I want to enjoy every second of it.

Alright, what else can we use?

I don't know, foam, wood?

We have wood.

But we don't have any art supplies.

Yeah.

Have you been up in the attic?

We have an attic?

Wow, I wonder how long all this has been here.

Decades maybe.

So what are we hoping to find?

Anything.

Nice.

Paint.

Whatcha doing?

Looking for things to make ornaments with.

Whoa. Cool.

I know, the problem is what do we paint?

What if you made some wooden balls?

We don't have a lathe.

We could build one.

Yeah, there's a ton of wood on the porch.

All we need are bolts, a drill, a saw, and a router.

All that stuff's in dad's van.

Okay!

Great.

I'll take that, thank you.

C'mon bro, let's get fancy.

Do you want to help me find things to

decorate the balls with? Jasmine: Yeah.

So...

How's it going with Mark?

It's fine.

I mean, he leaves tonight so I probably will

never see him again.

What time's your flight?

Eleven A.M.

Are you gonna talk to Ariel before you leave?

About what?

How you feel.

For what it's worth, Trevor is sure that Mark likes you.

Man, I mean what's the point?

You know, I go to Australia for two years, maybe longer.

You and him talk about this?

Actually yes, quite a bit.

Great.

I think you're making a mistake.

How?

Do you like him?

Mmm-hmm.

She likes you, you know.

You think so?

Yeah.

Okay...

Wow, I'm impressed.

Oh, one more thing.

Where did you find this?

I know it's probably not gonna be the same but...

I didn't want you to miss your turn.

It's beautiful.

Thank you.

So I was thinking I'd make a fire before dinner.

I'd like that.

I want to give you your Christmas present before

you know, I leave.

Yeah, me too.

I figured we were each others' secret Santa.

Not entirely by accident I'm sure.

Okay, I'm gonna get yours ready.

Meet you outside?Yeah.

Okay.

Here we go.

Maybe this is a dumb idea.

Don't you dare.

Is that my present?

Wow, this looks amazing.

Well, I love the box and if there's anything inside

it's just a bonus.

Okay...

Merry Christmas, Ariel.

It looks just like the real one.

This is amazing.

It has a skylight.

For the morning sun.

I love it, thank you.

You do?

Of course I do.

I wonder how long it'll last.

What you're not gonna eat it?

No, I want to keep it.

At least until tomorrow morning, and then I'm totally eating it.

Okay, your turn.

You ready?Yeah.

Merry Christmas.

I hope you like it.

I have one more present for you but this is just

your first present.

Tomorrow before you leave, I have another one.

What do you mean? Why?

You ask too many questions.

Just open your first present.

Oh.

Is it right?

Yes.

This is exactly how my mom used to make it.

Uh, how did you- we couldn't even figure out the ingredients.

Orange juice and ginger.

Thank you.

You have no idea how much this means to me.

All of us.

You're welcome.

Your dad and Trevor helped.

They were my tasters.

I really wish I didn't have to leave.

Yeah, I've been wishing that for a while now.

Hey guys, dinner's-

Oh, oh...

Dinner's ready when you are.

Okay.Be right there.

Knuckleheads.

So annoying sometimes.

This article better be ready.

Arrival in one hour.

Dear God, thank You for this bounty and Your provision.

Thank You for new friends and thank You for Christmas.

And what it means to us all.

In Jesus' name, amen. ALL: Amen.

Let's bring in the food.

She makes a mean turkey.

See?

It looks very nice if I do say so myself.

Enjoy, everyone.

Don't take too much.

This means a lot to us.

Thank you, really.

M'm.

Amazing.

Just like your mother's?

Just like mom's.

Incredible.

Thank you, again.

Well it was all three of us.

I'll get it.

Coming.

Please, come in.

It's cold out there.

Amazing.

What can I do for you?

Hi.

I'm Jeremy Huckabee...

Ariel Colt's boss.

Oh...

Is she here?She is, yeah.

Let me go and get her for you.

I'm Mark, by the way.

Ah, Mark... the subject of Ariel's Christmas article

which she forgot to send me by the way.

That's funny you uh, you don't look like you hate Christmas.

Excuse me?

Bring On The Grinch.

You are the Mark who she wrote the article about aren't you?

The guy who hates Christmas.

Is that what you've been doing this whole time?

All I've shared with you, you've just been asking me

questions for your article?

No, it's not like that.

I just, I needed to write-

Excuse me.

Mark!

Ariel, this article needs to be uploaded by tonight.

So I need this now.

Yeah, can you take care of this?

I sent it already.

I'm sorry.

I have to go.

Can I offer you some pie?

Coffee?

Turkey?

Here you go.

We have plenty.

No, thank you.

Merry Christmas.

You guys, I-

I really think you should read this.

Will you talk to me, please?

I have nothing to say.

Mark, that article wasn't my idea.

I didn't even want to write it.

But you did.

I'm sorry.

Do you have any idea how hard it was for me to talk about her?

You probably took my words, twisted them around and made

me sound like a terrible person.

Mark...

I hope it was worth it, selling me out.

If you'd just let me explain...

How am I ever supposed to trust you again?

You're not the girl I thought you were.

Looks like it may snow.

Yeah.

We'll all have a white Christmas.

You came here expecting to buy a cottage and in turn

you fell in love.

I've never seen my son look as hurt as he did tonight.

That kind of hurt only happens when you love someone.

Ariel, he loves you.

It's too late; he's right.

Your parents told me what you were planning to do.

Why?

Your heart is as big as his.

Try talking to him again.

I can't, I hurt him.

And there's... there's no undoing that.

Go talk to him.

And take this with you.

I'm sorry, please read this and see if I am who you think I am.

My Christmas In The Pines.

By Ariel Colt.

This year, like every other year, I had made the perfect

itinerary because long ago I realized that I can't

leave Christmas to chance.

When I was little we used to spend Christmas

with my grandparents.

We played games, made ornaments and baked cookies.

Those were the true old-fashioned Christmases that

I tried to recreate ever since.

But nowadays nobody knows the true meaning of Christmas.

Or so I thought.

I prided myself on knowing that Christmas

wasn't about presents.

What I didn't realize is, I forgot to cherish what was

right in front of me.

Through the strangest of circumstances, which I must

tell you about in another issue, my family and I got

a chance to spend this Christmas in beautiful

Carolinas with another family.

A family who wasn't looking forward to this holiday.

Because it was their first Christmas without someone.

A mom, who made every holiday special.

a son, who didn't know how

to spend Christmas without her.

And yet, while I was complaining about not having

a perfect Christmas...Hey!

Oh!

Oh...she's so pretty.

...they were all focused on

making the best of what we had.

That's it!

Aahh!

While I was trying to make everything perfect...

it was about being present with the ones we love.

It was here that I realized that my rigid plans are no

match to finding a missing ingredient

to a lost Christmas recipe.

Is it right?

Or helping someone fulfill a promise.

In the end it doesn't matter what we do.

So long as we're together.

And that sometimes the most imperfect Christmas

will give us the most perfect memories.

If we open our hearts, we will always have hope

and the blessings of Christmas.

Christmas is about giving.

But we must give what's most precious, love.

Ariel!

This family I told you about...

What is she doing?Shh! Just watch.

They think we saved them

Ariel! Ah no...

But, I think it's the other way around.

Stop!

Ariel, wait!

Why are you doing this?

All you have to do is wait for me to leave

and the place is yours.

I know.

So, I don't understand.

Christmas is about giving.

And until this evening, this has been the best

Christmas I ever had.

It didn't matter about the cottage.

It was about all of us here together.

It was about you.

Ariel, no.

I want you and your family to have it.

Uh... Honey does that look right to you?

Actually I moved that when I bumped into it.

It's about three inches further!

That's it!

Congratulations, you now have a cottage.

I read your article.

You're exactly the girl that I thought you were.

So, you gonna show me around your cottage?

I think you'll like it.

I think it needs a skylight.

Let's open some presents!

Okay!

Thank you.

And dad.

Oh, thank you Mark.

I don't have one.

Well...

You are my hummingbird.

Aww...

Merry Christmas.

Thank you, whoever you are.

I needed one of these, yes!

Oh!

That looks sharp.

Oh Duke... I am going to enjoy making use of this.

What do you say we come back up after the holidays?

Let's see what's in this lake.

Now you're speaking my language.

Oh my gosh, look at that!

It's a guitar strap.

Wow.That is amazing, I love it.

Hold on, I have something for Jasmine.

No...

For me, are you serious?

Totally!

I don't know what to say, thank you so much.

You're welcome.

Are you gonna teach me more songs?

Absolutely, you bet.

But what about your present?

Oh don't worry about that; I got more of those at home.

So...

Can I get everybody's attention please?

So my family and I have been thinking...

that we don't want to buy this cottage...

What?

...alone.

We'd like to propose that all of us here, the two families,

buy it together.

And I would love for you and your family to stay here

with mine while I'm gone.

Oh...

A few days ago I...

wasn't sure that I would really ever love Christmas again.

And uh...

You helped me.

So thank you.

What my son is really trying to say is...

that we should own this property together.

My wife Sally wanted me to have a cottage again.

But it's you I really needed.

You in?

Let's do it!Yes!

Yeah.

Yes!

Proud of you son.

The owner will be here soon to sign the paperwork.

Oh.

Australia, excuse me.

Hi, Kathy?

Yeah...

Scoot over.

So I guess we're gonna have to go shopping for your

gifts after the holidays.Nah...

You were right.

This is better than anything I would've had

on my Christmas list.

Whoa.I mean...

where am I gonna wear a purse anyways?

You did good, sis.Thanks.

You did real good.

Bad connection.

I'll call her on the road.

Must be the owner.

Come in!

Merry Christmas everyone.

My name is Mr. Noel.

Nice to finally meet you.

Ha, likewise.

Are Nick and Erica coming?

No, they're with their families.

I thought we could do this ourselves.

I brought the paperwork.

Oh, I'm sorry, excuse me just a second.

Hey Kathy...

Santa?

Did you get the Christmas you wished for?

Yes, it was wonderful.

But not quite perfect, is it?

Merry Christmas.

The meeting got pushed to the second week of January.

And, little brother, I think you're ready to take this

on by yourself.

What, you mean it?Mark: Yeah.

We're gonna be Skypeing every day though

to monitor your progress.

But, yes you can go to Australia.

I think I'd rather stay here.

Um... that's awesome, I won't let you down.

I don't know what to say.

How did you do it?

I didn't.

Christmas is what you make it.

If you'll excuse us, I would like to steal her away.

Would you like some cocoa, Santa?

Merry Christmas.

Merry Christmas.

Merry Christmas, Mark.

Merry Christmas, Ariel.