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(jazzy music plays)

* I got everything on my Christmas list *

* There wasn't a thing on my Christmas list *

* Cause all I wanted could never be *

* Underneath the tree *

(breathes deeply, then phone dings)

- I am so sorry. Work today was crazy.

- No, don't even worry about it.

And thank you for texting me in advance

instead of five minutes after you were supposed to be here.

- Man, I hate when people do that.

- Me too. Just one other thing that we have in common.

- Yeah. Still, showing up late for your second date

is not a good look.

- Well, since our first date was eight hours long,

I think I can give you a pass.

- It was that long? - Yeah!

Who would've thought that coffee would turn into lunch,

and lunch would turn into a movie,

and a movie would've turned into dinner,

followed by a horse and carriage ride through Central Park.

- Well, I had a great time, Mona.

Me too.

(both): I want to talk to you about something.

- You go first.

- Okay. Well, first of all, I want you to know that

it is totally fine if you say no to what I'm about to tell you.

- Okay.

- My great-grandfather started this carnival

and it's a pretty big deal back in Milton,

a small town upstate where I'm from.

It runs for 10 days and it ends with this

big beautiful dance on Christmas Eve.

So I'm heading up there tomorrow.

You had mentioned that you didn't have any plans

for Christmas

and I know that we just met,

but I feel like we have a real connection, you know?

So, I am extending an invitation

for you to come with me for Christmas.

(nervous chuckle)

Uh, no rush, you know. You just think about it and let me know.

It's no big deal.

So, what did you want to tell me?

- I'm getting back together with my wife.

- What did you just say?

- I'm getting back together with...

- Yeah, no, no, no. I heard you. You don't need to repeat it now.

Your wife?

- Well, technically she's my ex-wife.

I did tell you I was married, right?

- No, you didn't.

I think I would've remembered that

before I made a complete fool out of myself just now.

- Look, I am, I'm really sorry, Mona.

You're an incredible woman, it's just...

Spending time with you the other day

reminded me of how much fun she and I had together.

And I woke up today and realized

I'm still in love with her.

And I want her back.

Well, that's what I wanted to say to you.

I'm really sorry.

Merry Christmas?

- Morning. - Good morning.

- Thank you for coming over last night.

- Yeah, I was worried about you. How are you feeling?

- Like a complete idiot.

What was I thinking asking him to spend Christmas with me?

- No, don't do that Mo, don't blame yourself.

Forget about him.

Although I did warn you about meeting guys on dating apps.

Too soon? - Yeah.

- Sorry. (chuckles)

- It's not even just that.

You know, every time I go home I hear the same thing.

You're still single? You're not married? Why? Why, why?

- Why? Because you're focusing on your incredible career.

You started as a sales associate in a small boutique

and now you're a major social media ambassador

for international brands.

That's why!

- And nobody back home cares about that. It's Christmas.

It's about kids and family, and I have neither

and I'm about to be 40.

- In eight years! - Semantics.

I just have to face it, I have horrible luck with men.

- What about Roger?

- He bought a house, and he moved to the motherland.

Didn't tell me. I found out online.

- Kevin?

- Oh, the last time we went on a date,

he gave the waitress his number in front of me.

- Gordon?

- Joined a monastery and moved to Bali.

You are really not helping here.

Look at it this way, your Mom and your sister

are both happily married, and you will be too soon.

It's in your DNA.

- They did both find the loves of their lives

at the magical Milton Christmas dance.

- What's so magical about this dance?

- Rumor has it, if you kiss your date under the mistletoe

on Christmas Eve, you will have lasting love.

- And you believe that.

- It happened for my mom and my sister.

- You and that old quilt.

- Hey, my mother made this for me, just like her mom

made one for her, it's tradition.

- No, it's dusty.

- Oh.

Look at that. It's like she heard you talking about her.

Hey Mom. - When are you coming home?

The carnival's tomorrow

and your sister's feeling down, she needs you.

- Why, what happened? - Jackson called.

He thought the Navy was gonna give him time off,

and now he is not coming at all. - Oh no.

- It's their first Christmas away from each other

in 12 years.

- Okay, well, I'll be there tomorrow,

but I am preparing you right now,

I am not going to the dance.

- What do you mean? You have to go.

We have to take our family picture

in front of the big tree.

We've been doing it since you girls were little.

- Mom, we can take that picture anywhere.

- Mona Sinclair, since when did you stop caring about tradition?

I care. It just...

(sighs) Fine. Forget I said anything.

- Great. Oh! Do you remember my friend Toni?

Her son Solomon is single, and he's coming here for Christmas.

I think the two of you should go to the dance together.

Mom, please. Please. Please stop trying to hook me up.

- I'mma send you his picture now.

And I have a big surprise for you when you get here.

See you tomorrow, dear.

- See you tomorrow.

And this is why I only go home for Christmas.

- I mean...

- Don't you dare.

Uh-uh. Uh-uh.

- Honey, you shouldn't be carrying all those.

- It's fine.

- I talked to Mona, she's coming tomorrow.

- Great, we could use her help around here. I really miss her.

- We need to talk to her about the carnival.

- No, we don't, we can wait until after Christmas.

- She needs to know, Harold.

- We haven't seen her since last Christmas.

I just want her to enjoy the holiday.

Promise me you won't say anything?

- Okay, if that's what you want.

- I do, thank you. Love you.

- Love you too.

(chuckles)

(Shay): Hey, girl. What's going on?

- Hey, Shay, I just got in.

Ah, I forgot how adorable this place is.

Anyway, my Mom is gonna have me busy for the next 24 hours.

I'm stopping by my favorite coffee shop,

grab a few muffins for the nephews but I was wondering if-

Fletcher?

(Shay): Who is Fletcher?

(Mona): He's this guy I dated in high school.

I haven't seen him in years.

I gotta let you go. Bye.

- Mona Sinclair.

Wow, you've gotten even more beautiful?

- Fletcher, hi. It's so nice to see you.

When did you get back to town?

- I moved back about eight months ago.

You're home for the holidays?

- Yeah. Well, I'm going to the carnival with my family.

- I'll be there.

I'm bringing the fire truck down for the kids.

- You have kids? - No. I don't have a family.

-No. Oh. Haven't uh...

Haven't found the right one yet.

No wedding ring?

- Yeah, no, um, guess I haven't found the right one either.

Well, I'm going this way, so um...

- Right, right. Hey!

I know you just got here,

but maybe we could catch up later.

- I would love that.

- Cool, I'll DM you.

- Oh! Really? Hm.

- Okay, I admit I've been checking out your social media

the past few years, very impressive.

- Thank you.

Well, I... I guess I'll see you later.

- I'll see you later.

- There she is!

I missed you!

- Oh, I missed you too.

I didn't think you'd be here.

- Where else would I be?

I thought you'd be at the carnival.

- Oh, no. The boys are inside talking to their father

and I'm just waiting on the reporter to get here.

- What reporter?

- Momma didn't tell you? - No.

All she said was she had a surprise for me.

- Well, Culture & Lifestyle magazine is doing a piece

on small towns that exemplifies the Christmas spirit

and they've chosen our town, Christmas in Milton!

- Well, excuse me. - Wait, it gets better.

They're doing a feature of our family and on Mom and Dad

and how they built up the carnival over the years.

So, the reporter's coming here

and he's staying at the guest house while he does the article.

Isn't that cool? - Yeah, so cool.

- Oh. Girl.

- There's my baby! - That's my baby!

- It's so good to see you! - Hello, Momma. Hi, Dad.

- Did Erin tell you about the reporter?

Isn't that exciting?

- Sure is, Mom.

- My baby lives in New York, she doesn't get excited

about small-town stuff anymore.

- Ooh, did I mention that we have a new mailman?

Mona, he is so attractive. - Mom.

- Linda, the girl hasn't even stepped foot in the house.

Give it a rest.

- We'll talk later.

Let's get out of this cold. Come on.

- I'm so glad you're home.

- I'm sorry I won't be there for Christmas.

- It's not fair, you'll miss everything.

- We miss you, Dad. - I know kiddos.

- I'm so sorry. - It's been like this every day.

- But I promise I'll keep calling every day

so I feel like I'm there with you, okay?

- Okay. - It's getting late here, boys.

Let me talk to your Mom for a second.

Love you guys. Goodnight.

- Goodnight, Daddy. - Goodnight.

- Hello, my not so little nephews!

Come here. Come here. - Hi, Auntie Mona.

- Aw, well, I'm happy to see you too.

Come on. Cheer up.

Hey, why don't you go get my bags in the car?

There might be a surprise in there for you.

- Were you able to speak to the Admiral?

- Yes, and the answer is still no.

(sighs)

- Duty calls. I get it. I'll talk to the boys. I love you.

- I love you too, sweetheart.

- You okay? - Yeah.

It's just gonna be really hard this Christmas.

- Well, have no fear, your little sister's here.

Ooh!

(doorbell rings)

Oh, I think that's the reporter guy. Give me a second, okay?

(phone dings)

- Wow, you are quick.

- Dez, this is my brilliant sister Mona.

She's visiting for the holidays.

Mona, this is Dez Jordan

with Culture & Lifestyle magazine.

- Really nice to meet you. - Hi.

- Hi, here's my card.

- Wow, a, a business card.

I haven't seen one of these in, like, ever.

(chuckles) Yeah. I know.

Uh, most people usually share their information

through text, email or social media,

but I personally like the personal approach.

You know, I just think that technology

is really deteriorating the whole human interaction.

- Well, you know, since I work in social media,

I have to disagree.

- So, Dez, where are you coming from?

- New York City. - Is that right?

Well, you know Mona actually lives in New York City also.

What a coincidence.

- Really? - Yes, it is.

- Which part? - Manhattan. You?

- Brooklyn. - Hm.

- The guest house is unlocked.

It's on the right side of the driveway.

- Please, make yourself at home. - Thank you.

I can't believe your Mom was so gracious.

- Well, when you mentioned you were highlighting the carnival,

I mean, you made our mother's Christmas.

That's nice to hear. All right, well, just give me 15 minutes

and I'll be ready.

Okay, great. Looking forward to showing you Christmas in Milton.

- It's really nice meeting you. - Yeah, you too.

Okay, you two have fun. I will see you later.

- Uh, later? Where are you headed?

- I have a date. - A date? What, already?

I thought you were seeing a guy in New York.

- No, that is a long, sad story.

Okay, well, I have a couple of minutes, so talk fast.

- And you know what he said? - What did he say?

- Merry Christmas! (gasps)

- No! He didn't really say Merry Christmas

before walking away, did he? - He sure did.

- Wow, unbelievable.

I feel the need to apologize on behalf

of all of the decent men in the world.

- Uh, are there any?

- Oh, shots fired?

(laughs)

I'm kidding. I'm kidding.

So, what about you? Why are you still single?

- It's hard out here.

- Oh, please. Hard for you?

I'm sure there's a list of women waiting to date

Milton's favorite fire stopper.

- Women here are kinda predictable.

I need excitement.

Like a cup of hot cocoa

with whipped-cream, gummies kind of excitement.

- Well, there are plenty of toppings right over there.

Go wild. - Toppings are easy.

Women, that's a different story.

- Have you ever tried dating apps?

- No, thanks.

Especially not after the story you just told me.

- Well, no risk, no reward.

And you did say that you wanted excitement.

- Same old Mona. Always the optimist.

- Yeah. Not quite.

At this point, I am convinced

that I will be single for the rest of my life.

- Well, maybe I'll just have to do something about that.

(chuckles)

- Mm! Smells so good in here, Sis.

- Thanks, just making a few things

for the next couple of days.

Are you headed to the carnival?

- Yeah, well, you know I need to show my face today,

or I'm not going to hear the end of it from Mom.

- Well, at least you know that. Uh-uh! No. Uh-uh.

- I'm just tasting it. You want a ride with me?

- I can't I'm gonna do Christmas photos to send to Jackson.

Just trying find ways to keep their spirits up, ya know?

- Well, let me know if there's anything I can do to help, okay?

- I will. How was your date?

- Oh. Well. It was nice.

- Yeah? - Mm-hm.

It was with Fletcher. - Fletcher Johnson?

- Mm-hm. Why didn't you tell me he was back in town?

- Because you didn't ask, and just remember why you're here,

family.

I know. I know. So, where's our resident reporter?

- Oh, I dropped him off at the carnival.

You mind picking him up?

- Chaperoning a reporter around Milton. Wow.

Merry Christmas to me.

Don't think I don't know what you're doing.

- Drive safe! Love you!

(Mona): So, when does your article come out?

- Christmas Eve. - Nice.

- How long have you lived in New York?

- Five years. - You like it?

- Oh, I love it! So much culture and great shopping.

There's always a party. It's the complete opposite of Milton.

- Well, I hear there's a lot of culture and tradition here too.

- Okay, when I say culture, I'm talking about the arts,

Broadway, museums, not trolleys and folk art.

Why did you pick Milton, anyway?

- Because it is so picturesque at this time of year.

- I guess you're right. Does look like a postcard.

So where did you grow up?

I mean, where didn't I grow up? The military took us everywhere.

- Oh, Erin's husband's in the Navy.

Yeah, yeah, I heard.

My Dad's actually a high-ranking officer in the Navy.

- Ah. Where is he now?

- I don't know, probably on some top-secret assignment.

- So he is on a Mission Impossible

Ethan Hunt-type level?

- Yeah, I mean, he's taller and darker, but, uh, yeah,

I believe that his efforts save humanity.

- My dad milks cows.

Hey, hey, I eat cereal every day.

Saving humanity comes in different forms.

- I like that. - So what do you do?

- I am an online brand ambassador.

- A what?

- You know, companies, they hire me to promote

their products on social media.

I post, I do funny skits... - Okay, what kind of products?

- Uh, cosmetics, hair care, clothing, that kind of thing.

- OK, that is an interesting career.

- Um, I create my own content.

I write, shoot and deliver.

I actually do the jobs of three people.

- Yeah, but what you're talking about

isn't really that important.

- Excuse me?

- Oh, no, no. I mean, no, no shade,

but some things are more important than how you look.

- Oh.

Like writing about Christmas lights

in a town with a population of 1,800?

Okay, you have no idea what I do.

I'm gonna go wait in the car. - Really, now? Come on.

* The snow's falling down tonight *

* Everybody's got a secret smile *

* I don't wanna be alone *

* I want so much joys for me *

* I don't have any world to see *

* For a Christmas gift, all I want is love *

- Harold, your back is gonna give out

if you don't sit down for a moment, take a break!

- I'm fine.

The kids are gonna love this new booth.

- Hey, Momma.

- Hey! I'm surprised to see you before noon.

- Daddykins. How're you doing?

- I'm great. It's Christmas time.

- He's gonna pop a blood vessel

if he keeps moving this stuff like he is.

We are getting too old for all this.

- Speak for yourself, woman. I've got this under control.

Let me get back to work. Love you, baby girl.

- Love you. ( phone dings)

- So, have you gotten a chance to spend some time with Dez?

- Yes. - I like him.

- You like everyone, Mom. It's your superpower.

So, where do you want me to work today?

- Um. Oh, the Reindeer Race could use some help.

Jimmy's running late.

Mona? Can you get your nose out of your phone for a second?

Did you hear me? - Yeah, sorry, Mom.

What were you saying? - The Reindeer Race.

- Okay, I could do it for a few hours,

but then I have an errand to run, I love you.

Come and play the Reindeer Race

for the best stocking stuffers at the carnival!

- Yeah, I wanna play! - Thank you. Thank you.

Thank you.

- Wow, this place is like a real-life Milton snow globe.

- Yeah, that's one way to describe it.

- So, are your parents been running this place

since you girls were little?

- Are you interviewing me right now? Is that what's happening?

- Yeah. Is that okay?

- On your marks ... Go!

My great granddaddy

was the one who started the carnival, actually.

- Wow, so your parents grew up in this town too?

- Yeah.

Before the carnival, there was a circus

that used to set up here for the holidays.

But when they got better offers from larger cities, they bailed.

- Yeah. That's business.

- And that's when my great granddaddy

started with five booths.

My great-grandmother, she was the one

who came up with the Milton dance.

And it grew, year after year, into what you see today.

Wow, you are so lucky to be part of a family

so enriched in tradition.

- Yeah, real lucky for a woman with nothing important to say.

- Mona, I-

- Congratulations! Lane three wins.

(kid): Yay!

- Hi, Mona. I'm sorry I'm late. I'll take it from here.

- Oh, it's okay. Thank you, Jimmy.

- Come on, step right up! Who wants to win a Christmas prize?

Come on, you? Come on up here. Got a ticket, three tickets

gets you everything you wanna get for Christmas.

- Hi. - Hi.

- I hope I'm dressed okay.

- You look amazing. - Thank you.

I wish I felt that way.

You okay?

I'm fine. Just, my parents, they need some help at the carnival.

I found a replacement, but she needs to leave shortly.

And now my sister is upset with me because I'm going out.

- Why don't we go help your family instead of going out?

- You would do that? - Yeah.

It doesn't matter where we're spending time together,

as long as we're together.

- This brings back memories.

When Erin and I were kids,

we would spend two days blowing up balloons for the carnival.

And whoever blew up the most

would get a special treat in their stocking.

- Oh, no!

- Thank you for doing this, by the way.

I know it's not ideal,

but my Dad'll be back soon with the pump.

- No, it was fun. I remember coming here as a kid.

Milton always had the best light show.

- It does. So, why did you move back?

I thought about New York or Philly

but my parents are here,

there was an opening at the fire house,

so Milton seemed like a good compromise.

When I first moved back, I looked for you.

- Me? Seriously? - Yeah.

Do you remember our first Christmas together?

- Yeah, we came here.

- And I won you one of those big stuffed reindeer, right?

(both chuckle)

- I thought about asking you to be my girlfriend that night.

- Huh.

Then why did you stop calling me after Winter Break?

(exhales)

- I had a long talk with my Dad about you,

my grades were slipping

and he insisted that I stay focused on school.

- I wish that you'd told me that.

You know, all this time I just thought you lost interest.

- I was young and dumb.

I'm sorry.

But, um...

I'm really glad we've found each other again.

- Me too.

- Hey, kids!

- Dad! Uh, hey.

- You two can take a break. I've got it covered from here.

- You know, we can stay and help out. It's been really busy.

- I'm sure.

This little baby works 10 times faster than human lips.

But thank you for helping out. - Of course.

Hey, Dad. You okay?

- Of course.

I have a few aches and pains occasionally,

nothing that one of your Mom's

gingerbread cookies couldn't fix.

Don't worry about me, baby girl.

- Ugh. I'm sorry, I have an emergency at the station.

- Um, yeah, of course. Go.

- I really had a great time.

- Me too.

(exhales)

What?

- Nothin'. Just, you know...

Isn't he the boy that stopped calling you in high school?

- I...

(chuckles)

- We thank you for this family and we thank you for this food.

Amen. - Amen.

- Thank you so much for inviting me to dinner.

I haven't seen a spread like this in a while.

- Oh, it is our pleasure.

- So, boys, how was the Christmas play today?

- It was fun. Mom, what time is it?

- We have an hour. They're speaking to Jackson tonight.

- Oh, no wonder they're in such a good mood.

I thought maybe they'd been

peeking under the Christmas tree.

- My dad used to be stationed away a lot when I was your age.

-Really? - Yep.

In fact, I have an idea.

My Dad loved getting videos from us.

I'd be happy helping you make a fun video for your Dad.

- That's awesome. Can we do it tonight?

- If it's okay with your Mom.

- Yeah. That is so sweet, thank you.

Oh, it's my pleasure.

I bet we can make something really special.

- Hey girl. Hey.

- Hey, girl. Listen, you have the best kitchen!

If you ever need a house sitter again, you let me know.

- You better not burn the place down.

- So, how's it going? - It's good.

I actually went on a couple of dates

with my ex from high school.

- The guy you saw on the street? - Yup.

- Okay. What's his name? I'm looking him up.

- Fletcher Johnson. He's saying and doing

all of the right things.

It's like we're picking up

right where we left off in high school.

- Is Fletcher a fireman? - Yes. How did you...

Girl, never mind.

- He's so cute!

- I know!

- Oh, look at you spinning the block! So how's it been?

- Well, he has definitely expressed some interest, so...

- Okay, well, I'll do a medical background check

to make sure he doesn't have I was married before

but forgot to tell you-itis.

- Well, okay, thank you very much for that.

- Well, you go have fun. You deserve it, but be careful!

- I will. Bye.

- Bye.

- Good job, boys! - Thanks, Grandma.

Dad, this one's from me!

- And this one's from me! - See you soon!

- You guys are professionals. He's gonna love it.

- So cute.

- What are you doing?

- Enjoying the moment.

(distant groaning)

- Dad? What happened?

- Are you all right? Is it your back again?

- I'm fine, everybody. Please stop with the dramatics.

I just dropped a pot, that's all.

- Hey boys, let's go upstairs and finish these videos.

- Is everything okay?

- No, it's not, girls. We need to talk about something.

- Linda, not now, you promised.

- I'm sorry, Harold, but they need to know.

- Know what?

(exhales)

- Your Dad and I are getting older.

His back pain is getting worse.

We've decided that we can't manage the carnival

and the dance like we used to.

We've had a great run,

but it's time to do some other things with our lives.

- Girls, the truth is

the carnival isn't nearly as successful as it used to be.

Yes, we still get a decent crowd.

You remember how packed it used to be.

A lot of folks have moved out of Milton,

or their kids just aren't interested in attending.

We need new young energy to keep it alive.

- We need to know that you or your sister

are gonna take it over after this year.

- Well, what about Jimmy?

He's been helping you manage, right?

- We love Jimmy and he did make us an offer,

but it didn't feel right.

The carnival needs to stay in our family.

- It'll be tough with me taking care of the boys.

I can help out as much as I can,

as long as Jackson doesn't relocate.

But if we move, I can't promise I'll be here.

I have a job.

In New York?

- I know but this is our carnival.

Our Christmas Eve dance. It needs to stay in the family.

- We understand technology's taken over,

things move fast and people these days don't have the time

for the simple pleasures, but it's still important.

- This is our family's Christmas legacy, girls.

We need to know you're gonna carry it on.

- Mind if I sit?

Sure.

- Is your Dad okay?

- Yeah. Uh, no.

I guess he's just getting older.

- Is that why you're sitting outside by yourself?

(sighs)

They want me to take over the carnival but I don't want to,

and I feel like a horrible daughter.

- Why don't you want to do it? - Because it's a lot of work.

And especially now since the attendance has gone down.

You don't understand.

They prepare for this all year round,

not just during the season.

I feel like I'm gonna be stuck here if I do it.

But it's my family's legacy.

- I get it.

My grandfather was in the Navy before my Dad.

And I always felt like they would be disappointed in me

if I didn't enlist.

- How did you handle that?

- Not very well.

I didn't talk to them very much after college.

Then my grandfather got sick,

and my Dad and I were visiting him in the hospital

and I just asked them if they were disappointed in me.

They said no.

They respected the fact that I was building my own legacy.

I realized it was in my head the whole time.

I'm sure your folks will be okay

with whatever decision you make, Mona.

They really love you,

and nothing you do is gonna change that.

- Thanks.

- You're welcome.

(Erin): Hey, Miri, play our Christmas playlist.

(Christmas music plays)

No time for sleeping.

(mumbles)

- I need five more minutes, please.

I need you to get up and help me wrap these gifts.

(phone dings)

It's Fletcher.

- Oh! We have a date. What time is it?

Oh! We're just saying hi.

(clears throat)

Need I remind you he dumped you in high school?

- Yes, and he explained that and he apologized.

We're good now.

You know, maybe this is our time.

- I can say there is definitely something to timing.

I'm just not sure about Fletcher.

He broke your heart. I don't want to see that again.

- Well, it's a good thing we're not in high school anymore.

- Hmm.

(both laugh)

Do you remember this song?

Oh, my gosh we used to love this song.

- Do you remember the routine? - Girl, I'm already getting up.

Let's go!

* Listen close and I'll tell you why *

* It's my favorite time of year *

* Candy canes and mistletoe *

- Hey!

Ah!

Ahh!

(both laugh)

Oh, no, no!

- No, no, no, no. Don't stop on my account.

Come on.

- Oh, okay, okay. You like that, huh?

I hope you like wrapping presents too

because we need your help. Come on.

Grab some scissors and help us.

(phone dings)

Oh! Hey, uh, sorry, I've got uh...

- I guess he's allergic to wrapping gifts.

- Maybe he has a girlfriend he needs to check in on.

- Jealous?

- Please, I am not interested in him.

- Yeah, you're probably right.

He's kind, considerate, thoughtful, compassionate.

Why would you be interested in him?

- You better give me those scissors.

- You gotta see this. - Okay.

Ooh, where do all these ornaments come from?

- Over time, families in the town,

they create ornaments as a symbol of their presence here.

And each ornament is unique to that family.

- Ah, let's see. This one is from 2005 from a Billy Thompson.

- Oh little Billy.

You know, he's a big-time producer in Los Angeles now.

- Mrs. Hatcher.

She used to make the best cinnamon-spiced tea.

Wow, things have changed.

What?

- I just wish you could see your face

when you talk about this place, you glow.

- There's a sense of community that's hard to find elsewhere.

- Hey, you guys mind if I capture this?

- That's what you're here for. - Okay.

-Let's show them city folks what we got going on in Milton.

- Hey, Mona.

- Oh, it's here.

- Hey kids, I have some presents for you

from the Milton Fire Department.

- Firetruck, yeah, let's go.

- For you. For you.

Merry Christmas. Be right back, stay right there.

- Aw. Thank you for doing this.

The kids are so excited.

- It's my pleasure.

Now, this was a special memory for us too as kids.

You remember our ornament?

- I just saw it. Hold on. Um ...

Ta-da!

- Wow! I can't believe you still have this!

- Do you remember when we made that?

We were so proud of our artistic skills.

- Hey now, we were practically the Picasso

and Van Gogh of art class.

- We were so innocent back then.

- Funny how things change.

- Despite how things turned out,

I wouldn't change those memories for anything.

We learned so much about friendship

and, well, failed romance.

- Ouch, failed romance sounds so dramatic.

- No, it does. But it's true.

And our paper snowflake witnessed it all.

- Well, thank goodness for second chances.

- Mona!

- Dez.

- Hey, hey. Uh, sorry to interrupt.

I've gotta get back to the house. Forgot my extra battery.

- Um, Fletch, this is Dez.

He's writing an article on Christmas in Milton.

He's staying in my parents' guest house.

- Hey.

So, we're still on for tonight?

- Yeah, of course. - Great!

- I could take the car and run to your parents'.

- No, no, it's fine. I've gotta get changed for tonight anyway.

- Really? Why? You look great the way you are.

- Uh, yeah. That's a no. Come on.

(approaching footsteps)

- Wow.

- Much better than Carnival Mona, right?

- I like Carnival Mona. - Okay.

- She probably has an interesting backstory.

I mean I really wonder what her favorite holiday memory is.

- There is one that sticks out.

There was one year when my grandfather

created this Christmas Wishing Tree.

- A Wishing Tree?

Yeah, it was white and I swear

it had to have been 20, 30 feet tall.

And my grandfather told me that if I made three wishes

and I touched the tree,

all of my wishes would come true.

- And how old were you? - I was nine.

- Oh, man.

- Probably a little too old to believe in a magical tree,

but I will have you know my grandfather was very convincing.

And one of my wishes actually did come true.

I um, won the Christmas pageant the following year,

just like I wished for, so...

- Okay, okay. And what was your talent?

- I twirl a mean baton. - I bet you do.

(both laugh)

- Yeah, but the other two wishes,

they still haven't come true.

- Oh, please, please. No, no, no, no, no, no, no.

Don't stop. Keep going. Come on.

- You wanna know what I wished for?

- Uh, yeah!

- Okay, but you can't laugh.

- No, no, I won't.

I wished that I would become a supermodel.

(laughs) Okay!

- Really? Wow. - I'm fine now.

Really?

(laughing) The next Tyra Banks, huh?

- Mmm. You know it! Okay. Oh, you wanna see?

- Uh-oh. - Okay.

- All right. - Let's see.

Hey. I see it.

I see it.

- Yeah, I briefly tried to model when I moved to New York,

with the Wishing Tree in the back of my mind.

It didn't go very well.

- What happened to the wishes that didn't come true?

(car horn honks)

- I have to go.

- Where are you going?

- I don't know.

- Oh, okay, okay. I mean, he should really come to the door.

- Oh, it's fine. - No, no, actually,

he should come to the door instead of honking.

I mean, talk about no manners. It's just rude.

I mean, guys these days should really learn

to be a little more respectful.

Guys nowadays?

Okay, Grandpa.

You are a little judgmental.

Anybody ever tell you that?

You should work on that. Have a good night.

- What? - You look beautiful.

- Well, you don't look so bad yourself.

- Are you going to the Christmas dance?

- Of course. Why do you ask?

- Just curious.

- You know, seeing the look on those kids' faces

when you pulled up in a firetruck,

oh, it was priceless.

Makes me wonder what my kids are gonna look like.

- Kids are a huge responsibility.

- Yeah.

- I don't know if I'll ever be ready for that.

- Well, where are we headed?

- I was thinking about the ice rink,

but it's hard to skate and talk

and I want to spend some alone time with you.

- I like the sound of that. What do you have in mind?

- You'll see.

- What happened to all the decorations?

- Uh, some of the kids at the carnival

made fun of my decorating skills

so I decided to take them all off and start again.

Would you like to help?

- Picasso and Van Gogh strikes again.

(both chuckle)

- I'll admit,

this is one of my best dates ever.

- You don't have to flatter me, Mona.

I know your life is exciting. - What makes you say that?

- I see your social media posts

and every time I run into your sister,

she says you're traveling the world and loving New York.

- I do love New York, but it can get lonely sometimes.

- Can I be honest? - Sure.

- I'm surprised you're still single.

- I'm surprised you're still single.

You have been popular since high school,

and I see how the ladies still swarm.

(chuckles)

Most of the women here have a one-track mind.

Getting married and have kids. I want something different.

- Like what?

(sighs)

- I don't really know,

but I do know that I've been in a routine too long.

I guess I just need some adventure.

Yeah, well, I'm all for adventure.

I think we're ready.

- Do the honors? - My pleasure.

It's beautiful.

(siren) (gasps)

- You've got to be kidding me.

I'm so sorry.

- Seriously?

(sighs)

- I don't know about this, Dez.

- It's gonna be great.

My dad and I used to do this every Christmas.

Just focus, you got this.

- You can't chicken out now, Mom.

(clucking)

- Chicken? Oh, it's like that? Okay, let's go, Dez!

- Okay. All right. Ready, set, go!

- Oh, oh, oh, oh, oh, oh!

- Yeah! I won!

(laughs)

- This is so much fun. Thanks, Dez.

- Hey, that was awesome, guys. Your dad is gonna love this.

- Come on. I'll race you to the barn.

- I really appreciate you doing this, Dez.

It's good to see the kids like this.

I honestly don't know how to thank you.

- It's my pleasure.

But the way you can thank me is by telling me that you have

more of your Mom's delicious gingerbread cookies.

- Oh, I don't think so! - Oh!

But you know what, I can give you the recipe,

so your, um, girlfriend can make them for you.

- Oh, yeah, I don't have a girlfriend.

- Oh, you know what, I actually just remembered

I have a secret stash.

- All right. Lead the way. C'mon. I'll show you them.

- So, if you use all of the products that I recommended,

I promise you won't regret it.

This is your girl Mona Sinclair signing off.

And a Happy Holidays!

- Look at my sister, big time social media influencer.

- Oh, God. Get outta here.

What are you up to?

- Well, we were shooting footage this morning with Dez.

He's a nice guy.

- I don't know.

You know every time I think that we're kind of getting along,

he says something super judgey and you know...

- Well, I like him. But how was your evening with Fletcher?

- It was fine.

Ugh. I just really thought

he was gonna ask me to the dance, and he didn't.

I'm starting to think that it's me.

I have a great career, I have a good personality,

I dress nice and I have horrible luck with men.

- Mona, come on! You are a 10.

- I really don't feel that way.

Do you remember Grandpa's Wishing Tree?

- Of course.

- Well, I never told you this

but one of my wishes was that I would be married

and have a family by the time I was 35.

- Oh. Sis, it is time to let that go.

- Clearly.

Life has tried to trick you into thinking that you don't have it.

But that is far from the truth.

You don't have a husband by 35, so what?

You need to appreciate the things you do have in your life.

- I just, I look at your life, and Mom and Dad's...

- And you will have your own journey,

and find someone who appreciates you simply for you.

You just need to get back in being the optimistic girl

I know that you are.

Ah! This girl.

(clears throat)

(laughs)

- Mona Sinclair, Milton's Christmas pageant winner, year-

(both): 2005!

Yeah, girl, that's what I'm talking about.

You know, the Christmas present I want you to give yourself

this year is grace.

I love you. - I love you.

(Linda): Girls, I need your help.

- Duty calls. - Uh-huh.

Hey, Momma.

- I have gotten so behind this year that I am late

delivering my quilts.

Christmas is in six days, and I need some help.

- Sure, where do we start?

- First we need to cut those bigger squares

into smaller squares, and I need one of you

to finishing stitching that needlepoint.

I'll cut. I can't stitch.

- You sure can't, your stitches are always crooked.

- Your sister knows how to stitch,

she just doesn't want to.

- Well, I don't know why you do all of this by hand.

It takes so long. And you have a sewing machine.

- Mona Sinclair! These are heirlooms!

Your grandmother started this tradition.

Every year, she would gather everyone at her house

for a quilting circle.

It was a time of... - Laughter, stories...

But you don't have a quilting circle, Mom.

It's just you and us now. You need to modernize things.

- Your grandmother was a cornerstone of this town,

especially at Christmas.

This is her tradition, we are honoring it.

- Enough said, Momma. We'll help.

- Thank you.

- What are you doing?

- Oh! Girl, you almost gave me a heart attack.

- Okay, I know what you said, but he's a good guy.

- Yeah. I'm sure he is.

- He's like a nicer, sweeter Fletcher.

- Okay. Stop it.

(laughs)

- Brad, baby, come on. It's time to go.

- Let's get going. We've got some snow cones to make.

- I don't wanna go make snow cones.

- Why not?

- It's not gonna be the same without Daddy there.

It's like everyone else is excited about Christmas,

and all I can think about is how much I miss him.

- Brad, I...

- Hey, Brad.

I know it will be different without your dad

but it doesn't mean it will be bad.

- I won't like it. - I get it. I really do.

You know, the holiday can be tough

when someone you love is away, especially a parent.

I used to feel the same way when my Dad was away.

You know, but sometimes we have to be brave enough

to take chances on different things.

Think of it this way, your Dad, right, he's really brave?

Oh, see, well, you're the mini version of him.

I see it in you.

I think you can be brave just like your Dad.

You could do that, right?

All right.

(chuckles)

- All right! You all ready to rock and roll?

- All right. Let's go.

- Hey. You coming?

- Uh, yeah, yeah. Of course.

- The jolly crew's here!

Ready for some snow-capped delights?

- Yes! I will have the Candy Cane Bliss, please.

- And Harold and I will take the Holiday Surprise.

- Frosty Fiesta for sure. -- Me too.

- Can I get a Maple Sleigh Ride,

extra syrup, and a side of daring.

- Snow cones in the winter?

- It's a Sinclair family tradition.

- A jolly bunch indeed. Snow cones for all ages.

- Thank you, Jimmy. - Hey guys, wait a second.

Hey guys, it's your girl Mona.

And if you are in the upstate New York area,

you need to come hang with me

at the Milton Christmas Carnival!

We have got snow cones, we've got games, food

and good old Christmas family fun!

(all cheer)

So what are you guys waiting for? Come on down!

- Over here, everyone.

And right...

- Every year we transform the barn

for the annual Sinclair Family Christmas dance.

- Now Mona, we need to make sure that all the decorations

and food are in place.

It needs to be an enchanted winter wonderland.

- Erin and I have it all under control, Momma.

- It's the same people we used last year.

- And the year before that. - And the year before that.

- Okay, okay. You know this dance is special to me.

It was my mother's favorite part of the Carnival.

- It's also the place where you met the love of your life.

- Yes, it is.

- Erin also met her husband here too.

- So, is this dance some sort of good-luck charm?

- In a way, yes.

It's kinda like a tradition that carries the spirit

of the season; just love, family, friends,

and a touch of magic.

- Hey. Okay, so I brought the white flashing lights

to help with this year's theme, Holiday Enchantment.

I'm just going to get the boys

to help set up before we go caroling.

- Caroling? That's great.

That's the last thing I'll get to complete their video.

- Oh, they're the cutest things.

In my mind, caroling is what heaven sounds like.

- Hey Mona, you going?

- Yeah, Mona, are you?

- Uh...

- Sure. - Good.

* O'er the hills we go *

* Laughing all the way *

* Bells on bobtails ring *

* Making spirits bright *

* What fun it is to ride and sing *

- Hi, Mona! - Oh, Tracey!

- So good to see you back home. Oh, this is such good turnout.

I haven't seen this many people for a while.

- Yeah, I know. Oh, you need to meet Dez. Dez, this is Tracey.

Tracey has actually never missed a carnival.

Dez is doing an article on our town.

- Yeah, you mind if I ask you some questions?

- Of course. - Amazing. So you're from here.

- Born and raised. - All right.

So people come from surrounding counties.

Why do you think that is?

- The holidays have become so stressful.

Everyone's rushing to get gifts,

and hoping they have enough money, things like that.

But here, we have community activities

that celebrate the true meaning of Christmas.

Food drives, where the entire neighborhood is involved,

and tree trimming with homemade ornaments, so people feel seen.

Christmas isn't commercial here,

and that's what I think people appreciate.

- Yeah. Yeah, that's, that's great. Thank you.

- You're welcome. Merry Christmas.

Merry Christmas.

- You know, I never thought about that.

People here aren't stressed here during the holidays

like they are back in New York.

One year, I swear, I almost had a nervous breakdown

because I couldn't find the perfect dress

for the Harlem Theater party.

Well, people here don't care about that.

All they want to do is sing, celebrate, love on each other.

- Yeah, I mean, I've felt that.

- Did you see the stocking wall?

One of the churches, they put up stockings

and people fill them with gifts,

and the church gives them to families in need.

- Ooh. I definitely gotta get a picture of that.

- So the boys are gonna sing one more song

and then we're gonna head back to the house.

Where's Fletcher?

- He's...

Oh, I don't know where he went.

- Hey, I'm gonna stick around and interview a few more people.

- Dez, I want you to know

that I can't wait to read the article.

I know that it's gonna be the highlight of the year.

- Uh, yeah, yeah.

- Hey, don't be modest. I saw your pictures.

I know it's gonna be great.

- I'll see you guys later.

- Just admit it. You like him.

- What? No.

- You've been giving him a lot of your attention.

- That's because you and Mom keep sticking me with him.

I don't have a choice.

- I think you should ask him to the dance.

- Uh, no. Besides, Fletcher is going to ask me.

- Oh. - Yes.

- Really? Is that the same Fletcher that disappeared?

Hm? Where's he at?

- Okay, I don't need this right now.

I'm gonna go call him and find out where he is.

- Mm-hm. Girl.

- Hey. - Hey.

- What happened to you earlier?

- Sorry I left the square without telling you.

You seemed busy and I didn't want to bother you.

- It wouldn't have bothered me. I was there with you.

- You looked a little preoccupied.

- Ah. I'm sorry. - It's fine.

- You know, if it's not fine, you can just say that.

- I don't really like confrontation.

- Yeah, I get that but you broke up with me in high school

and you didn't tell me why.

And then now you left me at the carnival

and you're clearly feeling some kind of way.

I just want you to know that you can talk to me

about your feelings, okay?

- Okay. - Okay.

- Actually, I came to ask you something.

(exhales) What is it?

- You know what, it can wait. It's been a long night.

I'll see you tomorrow. Have a good night.

- Good night.

(all laughing)

- So, what did you say to him? - What could I say?

He just walked away

and I definitely wasn't chasing after him.

- Did you try to call him?

- You have clearly been out of the dating scene.

- We don't call, we text,

and he needs to be the one to text me.

- Okay boys, those are your last ones. Say goodnight.

- Goodnight. - Goodnight, boys.

- Goodnight.

(clears throat)

You two have a good night.

- Oh. Look at this. S'more?

- Sure.

That looks perfect!

Ooh! Ah!

(laughs)

- Mmm. It's perfect. You wanna bite?

- Mmm. (chuckles)

Um, I owe you an apology.

- Hm. I'm listening.

First, I couldn't believe how one post from you

got all those people at the carnival.

And then I looked into what it takes to be a brand ambassador,

and it is not easy.

- What? Are you saying that it's an actual job?

- I am.

- I think you're just trying to get me

to help you edit my nephews' videos.

- Could you? (laugh)

I mean, it is a lot of footage. - Of course.

(exhales)

The air is so fresh out here.

- Yeah, it is peaceful.

(both): I could get used to this.

Jinx!

- You know, my parents

are always saying things at the same time.

I guess I always thought it was because

they've known each other for so long,

but maybe they are simply aligned.

The way that they look at each other,

you just see the love bubbling over.

- Hm.

- I've always wanted someone to look at me that way.

- How could someone not look at you that way?

- Huh?

- Hm?

Oh, no, no, no. I just see how, how people look at you.

You cold?

- Oh, no, I'm fine. I'm fine.

- I got you.

Madame.

- What a gentleman. - Unlike some people.

- Ah!

(chuckle)

Thanks.

- No, thank you, for being my guide.

- Well, it was kind of,

sort of, a pleasure.

(chuckles)

I have to admit, though,

you've given me a new appreciation

for my own hometown.

So thank you.

- I mean, sometimes you have to look at things

with a different lens.

Yeah. I guess you're right.

Wow, it's so beautiful.

- Yes, you are.

- Um, I uh, I gotta go to bed.

I get up early, get things ready for the dance.

But I am gonna take one more for the road.

- Okay, yeah. Oh, okay, good one! Okay.

All right. Well, let me show you what I got here.

- Oh, oh, let's see.

Yeah, um, you should just stick to journalism.

Goodnight!

Mom?

Mom. - I'm almost done.

- You are done all right. Go to bed. I'll finish up.

- You sure, honey? - I'm positive.

Thank you, baby. - You're so welcome.

Mom? - Mm-hm?

- How did you know that Dad was the love of your life?

- It's not something you know, sweetheart.

It's something you feel.

You'll know it when you feel it.

Goodnight.

- Goodnight.

(sighs)

- Merry Christmas! - Merry Christmas!

I am so sorry that it's late.

My mother took a little extra time with this one.

- Oh! A Sinclair quilt is worth waiting for.

This one is going to my 80-year-old Mom.

It's got all her kids' and grandkids' names on it,

and it's made with patches

from some of their favorite Christmas outfits.

- That is so special. I'm sure they'll love it.

- Well, it was your Mom's idea.

Her quilts are a true labor of love.

I can't think of a Christmas gift that can compare.

- Thank you. It means a lot hearing you say that.

- Well, I'm sure Linda passed down her talents.

Maybe I'll get a quilt from you some day.

(laughs gently)

Now that would be a Christmas miracle.

Coffees to the rescue!

- Oh yes, thank you. I so needed this.

- Honestly, you guys really have an eye for this.

Transforming this place is not as easy as I thought.

- Well, we have a great team.

Do you remember that year when Mom decided

that the theme would be the Candy Cane Castle?

- Oh, yes! Everyone was sticky and smelling like peppermint

by the time the dance was over.

- My dog Marty licked me for three days after that.

(laughs)

Oh, I still have a barrel of icicles to hang,

so thanks for the coffee.

- And I will not let these lights defeat me,

so I'm gonna get back to it.

- Well, I have years of experience so I'll help.

- It's funny, Christmas was never my thing growing up.

Maybe because we were always in a different city

and never really had traditions.

I mean, sometimes we didn't even have a tree.

- You know, when I was a kid,

I started planning for Christmas in September.

I was that excited. I couldn't wait.

- Yeah, I can see why.

It would've been nice to have all of this growing up.

- Well, you have it now.

Maybe you'll come back next year.

- Is that an invitation? (Fletcher): Mona!

- Ah. Um, Fletch. Hey, what's up?

- I was wondering if you could help me with something.

- Um, sure. What is it?

- Uh, well, you see, there's this guy who's got a dilemma.

He's wondering if he should ask a certain someone

to the Christmas dance,

but he doesn't think his heart could take it if she says no.

What do you think he should do?

- Well, I think this guy

is in a bit of a mess.

And he should follow his heart.

- Whoa!

- Erin? - You okay?

- Yeah. I thought I had it. I hang it up every year.

- Erin, you rest. I'll finish hanging up the wreath.

- Thank you, Dez. Honestly, with you helping the boys

and now this,

I'm officially making you a member of the family.

Come on. I'll show you where they are.

- All right. - I'll be there in a minute.

- Who is Dez again?

- Oh, he's the reporter from Culture & Lifestyle magazine.

- Have you read any of his work?

- No, why?

- Just saying. You don't really know anything about him.

- Well, he's staying in my parents' guest house.

I'm sure that my mom looked into him.

Anyway, is there anything else on your mind?

(phone buzzes)

I actually have to take this call. I'll hit you later.

- Okay.

- Dear, you have outdone yourself as usual.

- Thank you, honey.

Girls, how are the decorations coming for the dance?

- The Sinclair sisters have it under control.

- Yes, Mom, stop worrying.

Mona has the decor,

and I have the DJ ready with the holiday jams.

- Jimmy said you fell and got a mouthful of hay.

Are you okay?

- Yes, just one more uncomfortable memory

for Dez to write in his article.

- Thank you again for allowing me

to capture these moments with you.

To be honest, this has been the best Christmas ever.

Well, now, that's the Milton Christmas magic.

- We're glad to have you.

I can't wait to read the newspaper.

(laugh)

What's so funny?

- Culture & Lifestyle is an online magazine,

Mr. Sinclair, no paper.

- Well, either way,

I'm looking forward to reading the article, son.

- We all are.

(Dez): Mona.

- Dez, really? - Yup.

You took a picture? Ugh. - I had to do it.

I don't think I've seen you sit still since I got here.

- Well, hard working women do take breaks.

You should put that in your article.

- I will.

- So, how's your article coming?

- It's almost done.

Once I cover the dance, it will be complete.

Hey, I just want you to know

that I really appreciate you opening yourself up like this.

You are an incredible woman, Mona Sinclair.

Uh... Well...

Can this incredible woman

take a little sneak peek at your picture because...

- Um... Oh, hey.

- I have photo approval. I need to see that.

- Oh, hey. Sorry, uh, it's my Dad,

I have to take this, go ahead.

Hey Pop, I need a favor.

(chuckles)

- So, what do you think?

- What is this?

Oh, Mona, it's not what you think.

- Really?

"With their gaudy decorations,

fake merriment and forced giving,

towns like Milton and families like the Sinclairs

serve as a reminder of the hyper-commercialism

and overcapitalization

that makes the Christmas season anything but merry."

Wow. Did you write this? - Yes, but let me explain.

- Okay, no, you don't have to explain. Dez, I -

- What's going on?

- Oh, Dez is writing a take down article on us

and the entire town.

- Dez?

- Okay, look, my initial assignment

wasn't to write a flattering piece on the carnival.

Okay, my editor actually wanted the opposite perspective.

- So instead you lied to my parents.

You lied to me.

- You should have been honest.

- Okay, I am so sorry. I got carried away.

I wanted to tell you

but everybody was just being so welcoming,

and I felt like part of the community.

I did not mean to deceive you or anyone else.

Mona, you've totally changed my perspective.

- Stop. Okay?

- I don't want Mom and Dad to get upset over this,

so we'll talk about this later.

Let's keep this between us. Dez, disappointed.

- Mona, I am so sorry.

- I'm sorry too.

- He had some nerve judging me.

- Mona? - Fletch. Hey.

- Looks like things are almost done here. It looks good.

- Yeah, it's gonna be beautiful.

Maybe you'll save me a dance.

- That's what I came to talk to you about.

- Oh yeah?

- You know, it's almost Christmas

and I always spend it here.

- Yeah, it's tradition.

- We've been spending a lot of time together this last few days

and it's made me think about the connection we have.

Mona Sinclair, will you go to the dance with me?

(gasps)

- I would love to.

(chuckles)

Hey, Sis. - Hey! You're up early.

I hope I didn't wake you.

- No, I just wanted to go for a walk

before everyone else woke up. - Okay.

- Hey, can we talk?

- Yeah, of course. Are you okay?

- Yeah, yeah, I'm fine.

Fletcher asked me to go to the dance last night.

- Really? - Yeah.

- Well, I guess you got what you wanted after all, right?

- Yeah, I guess so.

(doorbell, then knock)

- Who on earth is banging on the door this early?

(sighs)

(gasps)

Jackson!

Oh my God!

Hey, everybody! Look who's here!

- Oh! - Dad! You're here.

- Oh, my goodness, this is quite the surprise!

- I thought you weren't coming home.

- Well, the strangest thing happened.

My commanding officer got a call insisting

I get leave immediately and escorted to the airport.

- I knew it! Dez said you'd be home for Christmas!

- He did?

- Who's Dez? - We'll talk about it later.

- Well, it's good to have you home, son.

- It sure is. Well, now that everyone's here,

I'm gonna get started on breakfast.

- My taste buds are already tingling.

- You all go upstairs and get washed up.

- All right. - I'll help you.

Mom, please tell me we can make

our traditional Christmas Eve breakfast.

- Gingerbread pancakes and Christmas deviled eggs?

- Yes, girl!

(doorbell rings)

- Oh, it's a busy Christmas Eve.

- I'll get it.

- Who was that?

- No one. This gift was on the porch.

It has my name on it.

- Maybe Santa's making early house calls. Open it.

(Mona): Mona, I'm sorry things turned out the way they did.

I never intended to mislead you.

You and your family embody the true meaning of Christmas.

I will always cherish...

(Dez): The time we spent in Milton.

I was never gonna send the article that you saw,

it was my first draft.

This is the final version.

I hope you like it,

and I hope Jackson gets home in time.

Merry Christmas.

- Who's it from?

- Dez.

- Dez? Really?

- This is beautiful.

Dez did all this before he left?

(Mona): What do you mean?

- He's gone.

- Where?

- I don't know. I'm assuming back home.

He left a message for me late last night apologizing

for everything and saying he was leaving this morning.

- I'll be back. - What about breakfast?

- Mom, I'm sorry, I'll be back.

But I will be here for the dance tonight. I promise.

- Yes!

- Fletcher.

- Hi Mona, sorry about the early drop by

but I just wanted to give you this. Merry Christmas.

- Fletch, we need to talk.

I need to be honest.

- What do you mean?

- You are such an amazing guy.

I just don't think that what we have

is enough to get to the next level.

We're at two different places in our lives.

You don't want kids, and you want adventure and excitement,

and there is absolutely nothing wrong with that.

I thought that that's what I wanted too.

But now I know what I want.

I wanna settle down.

I wanna get married and have kids.

I want what my mom and my sister have.

That's the life that I want.

- I understand.

- I'm sorry. - No, don't be sorry.

Mona, you're an amazing woman

and I really do hope you find what you're looking for.

- Thank you.

- So I guess this is goodbye?

- No. This is more like see you next Christmas.

- See you next Christmas.

- Dez?

- Mona.

- You never said goodbye.

- I thought you never wanted to see me again.

- Well, I may have overreacted

by lumping you in with some of the other selfish men

that I've come across.

I want you to know that your interest in my family,

it helped me realize that the Sinclair quilting,

the carnival, the ornament tradition,

it is culture.

And it's special to me because it's my culture.

And that article you wrote.

- Did you like it?

- I loved it.

- So did my editor.

- Congratulations.

- Thank you.

- You're welcome.

- So, did you want to come inside?

- I have to get back.

- Right, the dance.

- Yes. - Right.

- The dance.

- Mona Sinclair, will you go to the dance with me?

- What did you just say?

- I said...

- No, you don't have to repeat it. I heard you. Yes.

- Yes? - Yes!

(both laugh)

(festive music plays)

* There's something about Christmas *

* That makes me grin from ear to ear *

* Listen close and I'll tell you why *

- So this is the Christmas dance.

- Pretty cool, right?

(chuckles)

- Hey!

- It is so good to see you both.

Merry Christmas.

erry Christmas.

- Your mom and I have been thinking about our conversation

asking you to take over the carnival.

- About that.

- And we understand that you have your own life

and your own priorities back in New York.

And it's not fair of us to ask you to sacrifice

what you're doing to carry on our legacy.

- Mom...

- And we also know that some traditions,

they become outdated and...

- Mom! - Yes, dear?

- I would be honored

to carry on our family tradition.

Absolutely honored.

- Really? - Really.

- Oh. You made me so happy!

Your grandmother would be so proud of you.

- Hey. They're playing our song!

- Oh!

(laughs)

- Fancy seeing you two here.

Dez, this is my husband, Captain Jackson Reynolds.

- I just want to thank you for everything you did for me

and my family, we'll never forget it.

- It's my absolute pleasure, Sir.

(whispering): He's the one.

- I know.

Shall we?

Wow, we're under the mistletoe.

Merry Christmas.

- Merry Christmas.

(Christmas music plays)

* I like the feeling, the vibe *

* Of Christmas, it's Christmas *

* Yeah, don't you know *

* We can go spend our fave holiday *

* Celebrate *

* Hey, hey *

* Just let your love... *