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[folksy music playing]
*
-Hello Mary Ann, it's Gabriella.
I just wanted to let you know
that your approval has gone through.
-Hi, Gabriella. Just checking in. Any updates?
It's been a few months since I've heard from you.
-I'm so sorry.
They went with a couple in Delaware.
I know it's disappointing.
-Just checking back in.
Um... I know I need to be patient.
She went with a couple in Baltimore.
Hi, Gabriella. It's been over nine months.
-I'm so sorry.
-Ready when you are.
[Christmas music playing]
So here is the settlement cheque for your wrongful termination
and your fully executed settlement agreement.
Congratulations, Ms. Sodhi.
-Thank you so much, Mary Ann.
You have no idea what this means for us,
especially near Christmas.
-Please, it was my pleasure.
Here, I'll show you out.
There you go.
Oh, um... it doesn't look like you took out your fees.
What do I owe you?
-No, no. It's pro-bono.
-I... I couldn't.
-You can. And you should.
Buy Arjun something extra special for Christmas. Right?
-Are you sure? -I'm sure.
-Thank you.
-You two have a great Christmas.
Whoa.
Nice spread.
-Thank you.
This coffee's for you, by the way.
-Thanks.
-So, uh... did you catch the news today?
-Oh.
Yeah, you mean the news that my ex-husband
is engaged to someone half my age?
I hadn't noticed.
-Good thing there's rum balls.
-Well honestly, I'm just...
I'm so much more at peace with the whole thing now.
-Hmm.
-Yeah. Maybe she's 21.
I'm sure she's very fertile,
which is exactly what Bruce wanted, but...
I always wanted a baby. You know that.
-Mm-hmm. -Right?
But every month it didn't happen with Bruce was just a heartache.
I don't need a husband to become a mom.
I've gotten as far as I am on my own.
Why not this too?
-Yes. So, any news on the adoption front?
-No. It could happen any day.
Could be in a year.
Takes a little longer for single women.
-Well, your maternity leave is ready and waiting for you.
Of course, feel free to work remotely
for as long as you wish.
I know how long you've wanted this.
-Thank you, Naomi.
-I'm here if you need a friend.
Ooh, speaking of friends...
I wanted to invite you over to my place for Christmas.
-Oh.
-We're having carols. White elephant.
-You know, I already have a date with food delivery
and a Christmas movie.
But... I do appreciate that you invite me every year,
even though every year I say no.
-Mary Ann, why do you think it is you and I
are the top female lawyers in the city?
Because we never give up.
-Hmm.
I thought you were going to say because we're very powerful,
independent women who don't rely on anyone to do our dirty work.
-Yeah, you would. See you mañana.
-See ya.
[peaceful music]
[sighs]
[exhales]
[line ringing]
-Gabriella speaking.
Gabriella. Uh... hi. Sorry. It's Mary Ann Brubeck.
-Yes, again.
Um... I just thought I'd call, you know,
because we're coming up on a year since my approval,
and I just...
Yes, as I said this process is extensive.
Of course.
Yeah. I, uh... I know it takes time.
Yes, you just need to be patient.
Absolutely.
And, um...
I have faith that it'll happen when it's meant to.
Hopefully it will.
I just... I just wanted to let you know
that I am so ready whenever that moment might be.
-I'll talk to you in the new year.
[sighs]
God... please grant me patience
and peace and trust as I await your divine timing.
-Yes! [laughs] Come on!
-Get up. Get out of the house.
-[grunting]
-Joe, let's go get something to eat. Come on.
-[grunting]
Sorry. I'm kind of in the middle of something here.
-Is this seriously where you see yourself in 20 years?
On the couch with your juice boxes,
your video games, and your dog.
-I mean, if by some miracle Donkey lives that long,
yeah, that would be great.
But no, no, no, no, no. Of course not.
You know, I want... more.
-Like, what do you want?
-Well I'm on level 4.
I'd love to get to level 5 here, if that's okay.
I'm kidding. I'm kidding, I...
I want more.
I don't know. More.
-That's exactly it, though. You don't know.
Who names their dog Donkey anyways?
Pretty stupid name.
-Hey, come on.
He's right here. I thought it was creative. Right?
Who's the creative, Donkey, huh?
-You know what? You're a really nice guy.
-Thank you.
-Just... where's your drive?
Where's your passion? Where's your reason?
When I saw you playing with your band up on stage,
man, you were full of life. You were electric.
It was like the whole world was yours.
You made an impression on me and I hadn't even met you yet.
Man, you were a rock star. But you're not that guy.
-I'm sorry if you thought you were getting that guy
but that was a lifetime ago.
You know, I left the band five years ago, Brooke.
-Yeah. You still have an entire room
dedicated to a single guitar.
The only clean room in the house, I might add.
I haven't heard you play once.
-[sighs]
Look, I'm not rock star Joe. Alright?
That ship has sailed.
[imitating ship horn]
-Yeah. Thanks for the note, Captain.
You know, I'm jumping ship.
[imitating ship horn]
[door slams]
-Oh, ho, ho, man. -Did you guys hear that?
[water dripping]
[knock at door]
-Hey, it's me.
Oh... okay.
-Hey!
-Hi. Hi.
-Hi.
-Did you forget that you were, uh,
watching your nephew tonight?
-Uh... no, of course not.
-Sure.
-Of course not, buddy. How are you?
-Clearly.
Is Brooke... Brooke around?
-No. We broke up.
-Oh... I'm sorry. You okay?
-Yeah. You know what? Actually, I'm fine.
I'm feeling really good.
-Okay. What was that, um, two months?
-Six weeks. New record.
-She was never really my favorite anyway.
-I know, I could tell. -Okay. Sorry.
-You know what?
I actually can't comprehend how you and Bob met
at middle school church camp
and you still love spending time together.
Incredible.
-We do.
I think sometimes God just puts your perfect person
in front of you early.
In braces and pimples and all that. Yeah.
But it also takes a lot of work,
and you avoid work like the plague, so...
-Hey, that's not true. I love work.
I just never met the right woman.
-You're right. You're right, I'm sorry.
You know, I saw you work really hard for your band.
Maybe you just need some... inspiration.
-Yeah, I just need some inspiration.
-Yeah. Okay. Well, I love you.
-Okay. Love you.
-Thank you again and I will see you around 9:00.
And I would prefer if you didn't eat pizza.
-Okay.
-Okay, good. Okay.
-You know what prefer means, right?
-Mmhmm.
It means we can get pizza, which is awesome!
[phone buzzing]
[water dripping]
-Hi, Mom. Uh... um... I can't really talk right now.
My sink is leaking.
-Oh. Have you called a plumber?
-I don't need a plumber. Okay? I can handle it.
[water splashing]
-Uh-huh, I bet.
So, have you thought any more about my offer
to drive up for Christmas?
You know, we've got just four days left.
-Uh... well... no, it's fine.
I told you, we talked about this...
[choking on water]
-Well, you know, we can keep things quiet.
I can stay in the guest room.
You'll hardly even know I'm there.
-Uh... the, um... the guest room isn't...
it's under construction.
So it's not going to work.
But I... I love you and I'll talk to you soon.
-I love you too, sweetie.
-Okay.
Okay, I think that's got it. We're good.
[gasps]
-Hey, buddy.
Hey Dolly, how you doing?
[both laughing]
-Hey. Guess what I found, man?
You won't believe this.
It's from our touring days, man! Look at this.
Your hair, bro!
-Oh, man.
-Those were fun times, eh?
-I saw the whole country because of you.
Seattle, Chicago, Miami.
-San Francisco.
-That's the stop we were at when my dad called
to break the news about his cancer.
-Yeah, man, that was a tough one.
You know, we... we really loved your dad.
You know that, right?
-Look, I'm kind of done reminiscing,
if that's okay with you.
-Look, I... I'm sorry.
I just, I brought this because I thought it would bring back
that spark you had back then. You know?
-Yeah, well, I appreciate it. I do.
I just think that that spark has...
long since fizzled, you know?
I don't know.
I do sometimes wonder what my dad would think about all this.
Me living in his house, running his business.
-I think he'd be proud of the man you've become.
That's me included.
Now, I do think he'd miss you playing his guitar, though.
And he loved it when you were playing up there.
[dog barks]
Dolly, come on!
This dog has been acting strange all morning.
Must be a storm coming.
Get back! Dolly, come on. Get back here!
[cheerful music]
[phone buzzing]
-[clears throat]
-Yes. Hello. Good morn... uh... good afternoon. Hi.
-Mary Anne, I have some wonderful news.
-Are you serious?
-Thank you. What's happening?
-I got the call.
Guess who's getting a baby for Christmas?
-What? That's incredible!
-I know. I know.
So, I'm just gonna jump in the car, uh,
it's like a four hour drive to Bethlehem, Pennsylvania,
where the hospital is.
-Okay, so what can I do?
Uh... need me to go to your place, get anything set up?
I can call your mom...
-Oh, uh... no.
No, no, you don't have to do that.
I've got everything covered there.
So...
-Still haven't told her yet, have you?
-Look, I know that I should. And I will.
I'm just worried about how she'll react, right?
-Okay, Well, drive safely
and I'm around if you need anything. Okay?
-Okay. -Keep me posted.
-I will.
-It's happening!
Okay.
We're having a baby, everyone!
-Okay.
Okay.
Yes...
Thank you.
[phone alert]
-Hey buddy, we got a blizzard warning.
[hospital announcements]
[hopeful music]
-[cries softly]
Hi.
[upbeat Christmas music]
-Ehh... it's pretty quiet.
I think I'm gonna head home.
-Well, as long as you um... you take him.
-Deal.
[radio] Weather alert folks. We've got a blizzard blowing in.
It's bad. Reports of stranded motorists everywhere.
Stay inside and get cozy, if you can.
You're not going anywhere.
-Because this is a closed adoption,
your privacy and the privacy of the birth parents
will remain intact.
-Okay.
-Now, she was born yesterday morning,
and the couple that we had lined up for her
pulled out last minute... right after you called.
-How could anyone go through this entire process
and just bail last minute?
-It happens more often than you think.
Adopting a child is a huge commitment,
and sometimes reality sets in and...
people realize they just aren't ready.
-Well, you're with your momma now. Hmm?
-Now, the nurses have been taking good care of her,
making sure she's getting lots of love.
They've been calling her baby Natalie.
-Natalie.
-Mm-hmm... means Christmas.
-I like it.
Suits her.
-Yeah.
-You're my Natalie.
[baby coos]
*
-[dispatch] Come in there, Joe.
We've got a six-car pile-up on Highway 10.
Get over there right away.
-Are you sure you don't want some help?
It's really coming down out there.
-Yeah. Thank you, I've got it.
-Okay. Well, um, there's a couple hotels in town,
but I've heard they're pretty booked up
because of the holidays.
I heard there's a small inn that might still have some rooms.
-No, no, no, we'll be fine.
Honestly, I'd just rather get her home tonight. You know?
-Okay.
-Thank you so much, Gabriella.
-Oh, you're so welcome.
-Thank you.
-Oh, okay. [chuckling]
Okay. Okay.
-You're so welcome.
-Okay. Well, stay safe out there.
-We will.
-Bye, Natalie.
-It's just you and me, baby girl.
Alright, let's go home.
[radio If you can avoid highway travel, please do so.
This blizzard isn't messing around folks.
We got reports of roads being closed in all directions.
People aren't going anywhere for a while. Stay safe.
-Good evening, this is Bethlehem Star Inn.
Could you hold, please? Hi. For one night.
-We have a clean room ready for you
and there's coffee in the lobby starting at 6:00
so just come on down.
-Bob!
Will you show this lovely couple room 206, please?
-Yeah, I'm a little busy. But... okay. Okay.
-And I'm not... Theo, don't jump on your dad!
You know he has a bad back. Just one more moment please.
-Bob! Bob. Bob -Yeah.
-206?
-You got it. -Great. Thank you, honey.
[baby fussing]
-Okay. Shh-shh shh.
[baby fussing]
-Mommy just wants to pull over. Okay?
-[radio] Alright folks. This blizzard isn't messing around.
Get off the highway, routes are closing.
You want to get indoors, stay safe.
-Alright, come on in here. Watch your step.
Found another one in the snowbank.
He's going to need a room for the night.
-You are in luck. We have one room left.
-Oh. [chuckling] I'm glad he found me.
I didn't have any service out there.
I thought I was gonna freeze to death.
-Ah, we wouldn't let that happen.
-Are you heading back out?
-You know what? It's getting pretty hairy out there,
I think I'm just gonna head home and check on Donkey.
-You have a donkey?
-By donkey he means dog.
-You named your dog Donkey?
-Pretty creative, right?
-Not really? -Okay.
Well, I'm gonna let highway patrol know that I'm on call,
so just... I'll be there if you need me. Okay?
Alright. Bob, you're looking sweaty. You okay?
-He's good.
Hey, would you take Gerald here to room 102?
Thanks.
-Okay. Good night, guys.
-Thank you, darling.
-Oh!
-Oops.
Just watch your step there.
-Thank you.
Hi. Sorry, wondering if you have any rooms?
-Okay. Thank you anyway. Alright.
-No.
-No rooms there either.
It looks like with the storm and the holidays
everything in Bethlehem is booked.
-Okay, um...
-You said she's just a day old?
-Yeah, I've only had her a couple hours.
I just adopted her. Uh...
-Oh...
-It's just the two of us.
-Oh, I feel awful. I wish we had a room for you.
Bob! Ooh, wait.
There's a couple of hotels in Allentown about 20 minutes away.
Maybe... hey, Joe!
Maybe you could guide her in the truck to Allentown?
-Uh... yeah.
I mean, I did just hear on the radio
that they've shut off the west road, but I mean...
if you're trying to get to Hanover
I can definitely get you through the worst of it.
-No, I was just driving in that direction.
It's totally blocked off.
No one's getting through tonight.
-Okay. Well, we've got Bob's sister
and her family in town for the holidays and Grandma Myrtle.
So it's a full house. But we have a couch.
I mean, I am not leaving you out in the cold.
-No, no, no. I would not impose on you.
-Oh, you're not imposing. It...
What am I thinking? Joe has a guest room.
I mean, his house is kind of a barn but, uh...
you'll have privacy. So...
-Yeah, I mean, I wasn't really prepared for that but...
-He'd love to have you.
-Yeah, it'd be great. -Yeah.
-Well, you know what?
I guess that's our only option, isn't it?
Uh... yeah. Yes. Thank you.
Thank you so much.
-No problem.
-Great. Great.
Well, hey, I'll bring a few things over on our way home.
We had my baby shower last weekend,
so the storage closet is just full of things,
and it's all collecting dust for the next couple of months.
-It's not necessary. I packed a suitcase.
That's probably enough for one night, right?
-Yeah, one night.
Oh, uh... yeah, sorry.
I didn't get a chance to... to clean up.
I didn't know anybody was coming over.
My nephew was here, we had a bit of a party.
-Oh. How old's your nephew?
-Seven.
-Right.
-Anyway, uh...
-You don't need to apologize. Thank you for letting us stay.
-Yeah. No, of course.
You can, uh, come on in and make yourself comfortable.
This is... this is Donkey, he's a good boy.
-Creative name.
-Thank you. Yeah, that's what I thought.
-Can I say hi?
-Yes. -Okay.
-So, listen, uh... the bedrooms are upstairs.
Uh... there's a kitchen around the corner here,
there's a bathroom over there.
-That's good.
-And there's that room.
-It's reserved for a guitar.
-Yeah.
-Do you play?
-Used to.
[baby fussing]
-It's okay. Hi.
-And of course, just help yourself
to anything in the fridge.
But make sure you check the date on it
because I haven't had a chance to go through...
I've been meaning to go through, just to clean it out.
-Yeah, no worries. Thank you.
-You bet.
-Looks like her pacifiers...
yeah, they didn't make it into the diaper bag.
But I saw a drugstore down the street.
So, you know what?
I'll just take her with me, we'll go get some stuff.
-No, no, no, no. I'm gonna drive you.
In this weather, no.
-It's faster if we take my truck right now anyway.
-It's fine, I can do it.
It's so close by and actually I could use some fresh air.
-Ooh! Oh. Hi.
I just brought a couple of things
in case you need anything.
Uh, we've got newborn diapers, sleepers, baby carriage,
bottles, bottle warmers, wipes, pacifiers.
-You guys really didn't have to do all of this. Thank you.
-Happy to help.
But we have Theo in the car asleep,
and it's storming out, so we should go.
But just call if you need anything.
-Okay. -Bye.
-You guys are the best.
-Okay. -Bye Bob.
-Good night. -Thank you.
Thank you, thank you.
-Okay. Have a good one. Thank you very much.
-Thanks. -Bye.
-Oh, man.
Flurry of activity, that's my sister.
Always doing a million things.
-Oh, you're siblings?
-Yeah. Actually, she's adopted too.
We celebrate her gotcha day.
-I like that. Gotcha.
-Gotcha.
Okay, so you must be exhausted.
So... why don't I show you upstairs to your space?
-Okay.
-And, um... why don't you take the baby?
-Yeah, I'll take...
-And I will take your luggage and we'll head upstairs.
-Okay.
-This way. Good boy, Donkey.
-Okay.
[peaceful music]
-Hi. -Hi.
-Are you heading out?
-Yeah, a couple stuck motorists out there. So...
-Oh.
-Is there anything I can pick you up while I'm out?
-No, I was just gonna look for something I could use
like a night light. I expect she'll be up.
-Right. Yeah, no, I should... I think I got something for you.
Yeah.
It's not exactly a night light
but it gives off a really warm glow.
-It's perfect. -Great.
-Thank you. -You're welcome.
-Oh, sorry.
-It's okay. Thank you. -You're welcome.
So, have a good night.
-Yeah, you too. -Yeah. Have a great night.
-Thank you. And drive safe.
-I will. Always do.
And... I hope you have a restful sleep.
-It's probably not gonna happen.
-Probably not gonna happen, but...
-Yeah. -Okay.
-Thank you. -You're welcome.
[baby crying]
[peaceful music]
-Hi. Okay. Come on.
There you go.
Look at the snow.
Yeah.
It's nice, huh?
*
-[baby screaming] -[gasps]
-It's okay, buddy. It's just for the night.
-Oh, baby girl. I know. I know you're hungry.
[baby crying]
There you go.
Don't you wanna go back to sleep?
No, you say.
[baby crying]
[clock ticking]
[dog panting]
[alarm ringing]
-[yawning] -[yawning]
-Hi. Morning.
-I hope we didn't keep you up all night.
-No. Not at all.
I slept like a baby, didn't even hear you guys.
Were you up?
-You can't lie to a lawyer.
-Hmm.
-There's coffee on the counter.
-Oh. Thank you.
-You're welcome.
-Where's Natalie, she sleeping?
-Yeah. Yeah, once the sun came up,
that's when she decided it was time to go back to bed.
-Right.
-Mm-hmm.
-Yeah. I think I read somewhere it takes them,
like, a few weeks to get their days and their nights
kinda straightened out.
-Hmm.
Oh, that's not milk. Um... it's formula.
-Ah. Thank you.
Clearly, I'm not quite awake yet, so...
Did you do the dishes?
You didn't have to do the dishes.
-Yeah, it was the least I could do.
[knocking] -Hello, hello, hello!
-Shh, shh, shh!
-Sorry. Sorry. What?
Uh... I didn't realize you had company. Hi.
-Hi.
-What are we shushing for?
-It's, uh...
-My baby.
-Do you want a coffee?
We're just drinking coffee right now.
-Yeah. Yeah. I'll take a quick cup.
Hey, do you mind?
This is Dolly. Hold that, thanks.
Let's do this! [claps loudly]
-Quiet, quiet!
-Sorry. Sorry.
[baby crying]
-I'll go upstairs, it's fine.
-Come on, use your head.
I'll go. I'll go, it's fine. I gotta check on Donkey.
-Thanks.
Hi. What's your name? Dolly?
You're cute.
-She likes you.
-Hi.
-Alright.
-Hi.
-I think she's just... -She's okay?
-She's good. Right back asleep.
-You know, me and this rock star...
we've been best friends since elementary school.
-Oh.
-Performed on stages all over the world. Right?
-Well, one of us performed on stage.
-Um... I'm Mary Ann.
This rock star, and I go back... what, a whole 12 hours?
-Twelve hours, yeah.
-Shawn Shepherd.
-Nice to meet you.
-Yes. Um...
-She got caught in the storm last night,
just waiting for those roads to open up.
-Yeah. Have you heard any news?
I'd really love to go home.
-I just heard on the radio it's gonna be at least another day.
There's road crews all over the state working overtime
because they're short-staffed due to the holidays.
-Right.
-Wow. Fancy schmancy. Huh.
Well, you're classing up the barn, I like it.
-It's okay.
-Actually, the reason I came...
I'm hoping you can give me a hand with Santa's truck.
The engine's giving me trouble.
-Oh really? Yeah. No, not a problem.
-What's Santa's truck?
-Oh, um... the church, they put on a toy drive every year.
-Oh, cute.
-Yeah, my mom started the event. It's pretty cool.
Santa takes photos with the kids and people drop off gifts.
-Oh, nice.
-You should come! I mean, you're gonna be here.
-No...
-It's really fun.
Shawn and I wear elf hats, hand out candy canes.
-Candy canes. Well, I... I can't miss it.
There's candy canes.
-There's candy canes, so you gotta come.
-Obviously. -Yeah.
-Wow. That is good stuff.
-Cheers. -Cheers.
[all chuckling]
-Is there a grocery store nearby?
I think I need more formula.
-Yeah. -Yeah.
-Gonna need a little more formula.
-Terrific, thank you. Wonderful.
-Thank you.
-Looking forward to hearing you sing.
-So, uh... we label them with age range and gender,
and then we place them here around the tree.
-Well, the shop owner labeled mine for me.
-So convenient.
-Well, if it isn't Prince Joseph.
-Hello Mother.
-Hello, darling.
-How are you?
-Oh... good. -Good.
Oh, this is Mary Ann and her daughter Natalie.
-Hi. -Hi. Nice to meet you.
-And you.
-Yeah, they got caught in that storm last night.
-Oh, my goodness. Was that not atrocious?
-It came out of nowhere, right? -I know. Yes.
-Sorry. This is my mom, Goldie.
She's the one who started the whole toy drive.
-Yeah, I see where you get your curls.
-[chuckles] Yes.
Thirty-four years and we are going strong.
I actually started it with Joey's dad, Jake, but...
well, now I'm on my own.
And I certainly could not have done it without the help
of these amazing people here in Bethlehem,
and of course, my sweet Joey.
-Well, you've created something really beautiful.
-Dad would be really proud of you, Mom.
-Oh, honey... I love you.
-Right this way Grandma.
-Oh... uh...just give me one second.
-Shh, shh, shh.
-Oh boy. Aww.
He's always been such a sweet soul.
Even as a little boy.
-Yeah, he's been very kind to take us in.
-I see a lot of his father in him.
-Yeah? -Mm-hmm.
They were thick as thieves, those two.
They would stay up late, jamming in the barn
like a couple of teenagers.
-It sounds like they were close.
-They were.
He was a very special man, and we all miss him very much.
-I'm sorry.
-Thank you.
-Mary Ann, this is my grandma, Myrtle.
-Oh, it's so nice to meet you.
-Finally. A sweet woman, Joey. I've been waiting.
-Oh... no.
-Uh... yeah, yeah....
[in unison] We're just friends.
-Hmm. For now.
-Grandma.
-Joe. Hey, Joe.
-Yeah, yeah. Go, go.
-Uh...
-All good.
-Okay. Just be nice, okay? Don't embarrass me.
-You can embarrass him.
-Well, what can I say? I see what I see.
-Oh, this is my daughter, Natalie.
I adopted her yesterday.
-But no husband?
-[coughs]
-No. Are you okay?
-Mm-hmm.
-So... sweet and brave. Let me see the angel.
[baby fussing]
Oh, dear, dear, dear. Oh, she's beautiful.
[baby fussing]
-Isn't she cute? Oh, shh, shh, shh.
Okay. Would you mind just grabbing that bag?
-Can I help you with anything?
-No, I just need to grab her... shh... her pacifier.
Um...
-I've got it. [baby crying]
Thank you.
-Oh, you would have found it eventually.
-I don't know about that.
-Oh, yes.
[singing in the background]
Choir is practicing.
Why don't you walk her over there?
Babies love music.
-Mmhmm. -She'll love it.
-Yeah, that's a great idea.
-I've got your stuff, it's all good.
-Thank you.
Um... it was nice to meet you both.
-Yes. Okay.
-Behave yourself. -Mmm.
*
* ...the everlasting light. *
* The hopes and fears of all the years. *
* are met in thee tonight. *
* Oh, Christ is born of Mary *
* and gathered all above *
* While mortals sleep the angels keep. *
-Amen.
* Their watch of wondering love *
-Music has always been how I've connected most with God,
even as a little boy.
-I really felt it today.
-Yeah.
I noticed your cross necklace earlier. It's beautiful.
-Thank you.
-Yeah, when I was a little kid, when the choir would sing,
my dad and I would play. It's like I was...
showered with God's light.
-I love that.
[baby fussing]
-You feel that too, little one?
-[chuckles]
You know, when I was younger, I used to dance.
And my mom always said she couldn't get me to stop
creating these interpretive dance pieces
every time the choir sang at Christmas time.
-I bet you were adorable.
-[chuckles] Yeah.
-Yeah.
-But I was moved, you know, in the same way that you were.
Just inspired by the music and God.
Every good and perfect gift comes from above.
Isn't that right?
-James 1:17.
It was one of my dad's favorite verses.
-Mine too.
-Really? -Yeah.
-Hmm.
-Families are arriving.
-Great.
-You guys coming?
-Mm-hmm. -Yeah.
-Now?
-Hmm.
Alright. Watch your step.
-Oh, Granny. Look at that.
-What do you make of those two, huh?
-It catches sometimes.
-Is there a trick to it?
-I think Joseph might be smitten.
What do you think?
-I think that storm may have been a part of a bigger plan.
-Amen.
-Uh huh.
-Hi. -Hi.
Is she asleep?
-Yeah. That one was tough.
-I think you deserve a cold one.
Would you like an apple juice?
-Yes, please. That would be amazing.
Thank you.
-You're welcome.
-You know, I think I'm starting to see why
being a single parent was so hard for my mom.
-I can imagine it's not easy on anyone.
Single, married, four nannies.
-I remember growing up with Frankie,
I always thought that I would adopt one day, but...
I don't think I have the courage to do that on my own.
I'll tell you one thing, though.
Having just met you,
I would say that I have full faith that if anyone can do it,
it's definitely you.
-Thank you.
-Cheers. -Cheers.
You know, you don't...
you don't have to stick around and entertain me.
I can fend for myself.
So if you have stuff to do...
-No. I have nothing to do.
Well, actually I was...
I was gonna decorate the tree, since tomorrow is Christmas Eve,
and I've probably procrastinated enough at this point.
-I could help you.
-Yeah? -Mm-hmm.
Look at how cute you were.
[laughs]
-That's amazing.
My sister made that in some art class.
-Seems like you guys were close.
I always wanted a sibling.
-Yeah, we're very close.
She's always been my biggest supporter.
Her and my dad would come to every single one of my shows
when I was starting out.
-Yeah, you said you used to tour?
-Yeah, it was incredible. Until it wasn't.
It's actually really lonely out on the road
and I just started to miss, like, my family and community...
just my town.
And then when my dad got sick,
it just kind of put everything into perspective.
Like, what am I doing out here, you know?
So I just, I came back and, uh...
helped him with the business.
He taught me how to play.
That's his guitar in there.
I haven't played it since he passed.
-He really meant a lot to you, huh?
-He was my best friend.
I haven't really shared that with anyone.
-Thank you for sharing it with me.
-Alright, well since we're opening up over here,
why don't you tell me something about yourself, Mary Ann?
-Uh... I grew up with a single mom.
-Mmhmm.
-My dad left when I was a baby.
Um... she struggled a lot,
worked a lot of jobs to take care of me
with no help from friends or family.
So, I was alone a lot and grew up quickly and, uh...
honestly didn't really have anyone to rely on but myself.
So that's... that's how I've lived my life.
-Well... you've sure done well for yourself.
-Thank you.
Like, my mom... she did everything she could,
but we just didn't have a lot of money growing up.
So it wasn't always easy.
And I think in a way, I just...
I think I was determined to not struggle
in the way that she did.
You know, so I went to law school,
became a lawyer, made partner.
And then I married someone who was equally ambitious...
who, uh... left me when I couldn't get pregnant.
-I'm so sorry.
-Don't be. It was a blessing.
Yeah, he was cold.
You know, so I could keep him at arm's length,
it was a safety thing.
But... it wasn't a partnership.
It was always whatever he wanted
and when I couldn't give him that...
he chose to leave.
-Wow.
-And now he's engaged to someone half my age.
Go figure.
-Yeah. Must be tough.
-No.
Honestly, I just leaned on God. And I found my inner strength.
-Hmm.
-I've actually never shared that with anyone either.
-Wow. Look at us.
-Look at us.
-Share-sy Pants over here.
-So, what about you? Have you been married?
-No.
I always made music a priority. Until it wasn't.
And since then, I haven't really found
the motivation to do anything.
Work.
Relationships.
Cleaning.
-Well, I hope you find your inspiration someday.
-Yeah. Me too.
No, no, no.
Just trust me, this is gonna look good.
-It's not gonna work. -It's gonna work.
Boom! Look at that.
-Nuh uh.
-What?
-No!
-You go ahead and keep the star night light. Yes.
This goes on top.
-No!
-Just like this.
Boom.
-No, it's terrible.
-I actually think it's perfect.
I mean, nothing really encapsulates Bethlehem
more than pizza, because, you know,
they used to eat pizza back then. I think.
I'm pretty sure they did.
-Did they?
-[laughs] Yes, they did.
-Yeah. Now that I think of it, I think you're right.
-Yeah.
-And nothing screams Christmas miracle
quite like I cut up pizza box.
-No, nothing does.
-Thank you for- -Seriously...
I was just going to say it looks great.
-Yeah, I was just going to say thank you for your help.
-It's my pleasure.
So, I should probably head up to bed.
Yeah, she'll be up.
-She's always up.
-Yeah. Sorry.
-That's okay.
-Okay, so... -Thank you.
-Best wishes.
-You too.
-Okay.
-Good night, Joe.
-Good night, Mary Ann.
Ugh.
Best wishes.
[game starts up]
[peaceful music]
[baby crying]
[clock ticking]
[baby crying]
-Hi. You hungry?
Oh, stinky.
Okay. How about we change that?
[baby crying]
[Mary Ann sighs]
[clock ticking]
[breathing heavily]
[baby crying]
[breathing heavily]
[Christmas rock music playing]
Joe?
Have you seen...?
-Shh, shh, shh! She's sleeping, it's okay.
-Oh, thank goodness.
-She was fussing.
I just picked her up, you were like... [imitates snoring]...
so I just wanted to let you go on.
-Okay.
Why are you dancing?
-She really likes it when I do this.
And then I go forward like this.
And then I swoop around like this.
-Hmm. Okay.
-Hey, there's, uh...
croissants and coffee in the kitchen.
-Thank you.
*
-Okay. I got about five more minutes
and then I'll get you out of here.
-No rush.
The roads aren't supposed to open up for a couple more hours.
-Ah.
Hey, look who's here.
-Yeah, the wreath cookies are all decorated
so I thought we'd get some fresh air.
-Nice.
-Hi, I'm Mary Ann.
-[chuckles] Gerald.
-Nice to meet you. -Nice to meet you.
-What do we have here?
-Uh, this is Natalie.
-Wow. Wow. She's brand new, isn't she?
-Yeah. Couple days.
-Beautiful.
-Thank you.
-Here, take a load off.
-Thank you.
So, you have far to go?
-I got about ten more hours of driving.
-Oh, you'll make it home just in time for Christmas.
-It's Christmas Eve already?
-Mm-hmm.
-I tell you, I can't tell one day from the next.
Ah, that doesn't matter much for me these days.
You know, I'm just heading home after some work.
-So, no... no plans?
-Nah, nah.
Well my... my son lives across country and he's,
he's busy making Christmas memories with his own kids.
Yeah, I used to do a little something to celebrate
on my own but, uh... it gets old after a while.
-Hm.
-Hey, listen.
If you want to stick around for a few days, you know,
we do some pretty fun Christmas activities at the church.
-No, no. Thank you.
I'm just an old man and I'm stuck in my ways.
-Fair enough.
But if you change your mind, you know where to find us.
You're all done. Good to go.
-Thanks, Joe.
I'll pay up.
-Alright.
[baby cooing]
-You two... cherish what you've got here.
Be grateful that you've got each other
and you got this little one.
Don't make the same mistakes I made.
-Well, we're not...
-Yeah...
-We won't. -We won't.
-There's nothing more important in life than family.
Don't ever take that for granted.
Merry Christmas.
-[in unison] Merry Christmas.
-Hey, oh! Watch your head. Watch your head there.
[laughs]
-Alright.
-Merry Christmas.
-Thanks again.
-He was nice.
-Nice. Great guy.
-Yeah, great.
-Yeah. Really, uh... kind.
Um... can I get you two anything?
-No. No, thank you.
I think we're just going to go for a little stroll
around the block before we're stuck in the car.
-Yeah, that's... that's a good idea.
Listen, I'm all done here. You mind if I tag along?
-Please, that would be nice. Yeah.
-Great.
There's actually, uh...
there's a special spot I've been wanting to show you.
Come on.
Watch your head.
Yeah, so this is my family barn built in 1915.
It's actually where I found Donkey.
He was a stray, cold and skinny.
I found him in the donkey stable, hence his name.
-Ah...and now he eats pizza and has a best friend.
-Yeah, I think he's done alright for himself.
-I think he has.
Okay. Close your eyes
'cause I've got a surprise for you.
-Okay.
-Grab on. -Okay.
-Here we go.
-Wow.
-Amazing, right?
-Yeah.
-After my dad sold off the animals,
he started to build this collection.
He would add to it every year
and invite the community out to check it out.
And then, of course, he passed and we just kept it up all year.
-It's amazing.
-It is.
My mom opens it up so the community can come out
and enjoy it throughout Christmas.
-Such a great way to keep his memory alive.
-It is. -Hmm.
-Is this the same barn you had your late night jam sessions in?
Your mom told me.
-Of course she did. Yes, this is the very one.
-It's a really special place.
-It is.
It's the last year we're gonna have it, though.
They've implemented a new property tax law
and the family doesn't think we can keep it, unfortunately.
-I'm sorry to hear that.
-Yeah, thanks.
-Thank you for showing it to me.
-I just thought you should see it.
[notification alert]
Oh.
Ah... that's Shawn.
He says the roads have opened back up.
-Oh.
-Yeah, that's great.
-Yeah.
-Bye, sweet girl. Don't grow up too fast.
-I can't thank you enough for your generosity.
-No, no. You're so welcome.
Thank you for getting stuck and then allowing me to save you
so that you could hang out here for a couple of days
because it's been really nice.
-It was the plan all along.
-Yeah, I figured as much. -Yeah.
Alright, well... Drive safe.
-I will.
-And just be careful in the mountain pass.
You know, it can be a little slick,
especially with two-wheel drive.
-Okay. -Okay.
And maybe just, uh... give me a call when you land.
Just so I know you got there safely.
-For sure, yeah.
-And just kind of in general, you know,
like, keep in touch because...
you know, I'm gonna need some Natalie updates.
-I get it. Thank you.
-Bye.
[car engine stalling]
-Really?
[sighs]
-You kidding?
-Oh...
great.
Yeah. Okay.
Merry Christmas.
Okay, so your ignition switch is shot
and unfortunately, we don't keep foreign parts on hand,
and neither do any of the other shops in the vicinity.
-Makes sense.
-Now, I can order one
but it's not gonna arrive until after Christmas.
-Okay, um...
-Why don't I just drive you? I'm gonna drive you.
-Oh, no. No. -Yeah.
-No, no.
I'm not gonna make you drive eight hours roundtrip
on Christmas Eve. It's fine.
I'll just... call a cab.
-No, you're not calling a cab. You're not calling a cab.
-Yeah, I can just call a cab.
There's... there's probably a bunch out there waiting.
-I'm gonna drive you. Or you could just stay.
[baby fussing]
She wants to stay.
-I actually think it's gas. Sorry.
But I'm sure... I'm sure she would.
-You know, I'd love to show you and Natalie
what our Christmases are like.
-I mean, it would be a lot easier
than having to ship the car.
-Yeah, I mean, wouldn't it?
-But you know what,
I'm sure some room's opened up at the inn.
-No, you're not staying at the inn.
-I can just stay... -Come on, don't be silly.
Why would you stay at the inn when you...
we've got it all set up at my place?
What do you say?
-Thank you.
Hey. Uh, what are these logos?
-Hmm?
-Uh, the logos?
-Oh.
Yeah, I got those made a while back
but I've been slacking. Surprise, surprise.
-They're really great.
I like, uh, this one.
It's like modern, but still classic.
-Really? -Yeah.
-That's kind of the one I was gravitating towards as well.
It's very... modern and classic.
-Modern and classic. -Modern and classic.
-Yeah, it's great. -Thank you.
Yeah. I just thought I'd start advertising some more,
you know, try to...
take my business to the next level. You know?
-Smart.
-Yeah. Thank you.
Oh, uh... more importantly, I need to ask you,
which sweater do you want to wear tonight?
Are you ready?
-This is big. Okay.
-Are you... chill out dude! Or... oh snap!
-Ah... that's a tough call.
-It is a tough call.
-I'm gonna say snowman will do.
-Yeah, dude.
-It's clear.
-Hey, it's me! -Hey, hey.
-Thank you so much for taking us.
-Yeah, you bet. Of course.
-Wow, your place looks amazing.
-Hey, how are you? -I'm good.
-Yeah, just... you know...
wanted to get some organizing done.
-Okay. Well, I'm... I'm shocked.
-I didn't know you could clean.
-[scoffs] What are you talking about?
-I clean all the time. -No, you don't.
-Yeah, I do. They call me Mr. Clean. Very clean.
-I have never seen you clean before.
-Always clean.
-Sorry. Did you make these?
-Yeah.
-Are you joking?
-No, I bake cookies. -No, you don't.
-Yeah, I do. -When?
-Well, I did, didn't I?
-You did. I saw him.
-Anyway. -Are you okay?
-Great.
-Is it hot, or...? -I'm fine, Frankie. Just...
-Did something happen?
-Okay. That's enough. No more talking.
-Blink twice if she's holding you hostage.
-Okay, we're all good. Okay. We're good, sister.
-We're having fun, right? -It's okay.
-Weird. -You're weird!
* And I can just hold on tight*
* Nothing that Christmas can't put right*
-What, like all of it? -Yeah.
-Well, whatever amount.
-Oh, just gonna drop this off. There you go, guys.
Hey.
Hey guys!
-Hey!
-It's us! The guys!
-Hey.
-Uncle Joe, I was telling Marcus
about all your amazing dance moves.
-You were?
I mean, I don't even know you're talking about
'cause I don't really dance.
-Oh really?
-The cha-cha, the waltz, the tango.
Mom says you can do them all.
-Oh, I mean...
but not really as good as I can do the robot.
I mean, do you want me to get out there
and do some of my awesome moves for everybody or what?
Here we go! It's a bird, it's a plane...
-Okay. Hey, how are you holding up?
Joe told me about your car.
-Oh, yeah. It's you know, it's unfortunate
but there's nothing I can really do. So...
-Yeah. Well, even the not so ideal moments have a reason.
You and Joe seem to have hit it off.
-Yeah. Yeah, I mean, we're very grateful for his hospitality.
-You should spend the holidays with us.
I'm doing a Christmas Eve dinner tonight,
and we do the best games. It'll be like a whole feast.
-I don't think I brought anything nice enough for that.
Plus, she's...
you know, she's probably just going to cry the entire time.
And, you know, I just...
I wouldn't want her to bother you guys during dinner.
She'll just be screaming.
-Well, even if she does, there will be several aunties
and grandmas just dying to hold her.
We really love babies in this family, as you can clearly see.
Okay. What if I just have Bob drop off
a few dress options, you know? Believe it or not,
I haven't always been this big. Huh?
-Alright.
-Really?
-Yeah, yeah, you're... you're very convincing.
-Huh. Okay.
-You should be a lawyer.
-Hmm. I will consider it.
-Here we go.
-The thing is, is this is our song
and I heard her out there saying that she needs me
to take her to the dance floor. So, if you don't mind?
-Of course, by all means.
-Thank you very much.
-There we go.
-Here we go, we got her.
* This is the time to say I love you. *
-He's a good guy.
Yeah.
*
-Terrible dancer.
*
[instrumental Christmas music]
[phone buzzing]
-Hi Mom.
-I just want to wish you a merry Christmas Eve.
-Thank you. Merry Christmas Eve to you, too.
-Are you doing alright, sweetie? Anything you want to talk about?
-No. No, I'm fine.
How about you?
Have you been baking Christmas cookies all day?
-How'd you guess?
-We all have our own traditions, right?
-Yes, we do.
Well, I won't keep you from your take-out
and your Christmas movie.
I love you, honey.
-I love you too, Mom.
-Good night.
[baby crying]
* This little light of mine... *
* I'm gonna let it shine. *
* This little light of mine... *
* I'm gonna let it shine. *
* This little light of mine... *
* I'm gonna let it shine. *
* Let it shine... *
* let it shine... *
-That was beautiful.
-Thank you.
I figured it was time.
You look... gorgeous. Like... gorgeous.
-Thank you.
You, um... clean up pretty well yourself.
-Oh. This old thing?
-Yeah. It's giving me a Fred Astaire in Holiday Inn vibes.
-Say... why don't we head out to the farm, huh?
We'll dance and we'll sing like it's the holidays. Huh?
-I mean, the resemblance is uncanny.
[slow song on radio turns on]
Speaking of Fred Astaire, what was it that I heard
about you knowing the cha-cha, the waltz and the tango?
-Yeah.
So, my sister used to be a ballroom dancer
and when her partner couldn't come,
I used to fill in for the rehearsals. So...
I kinda picked up a few moves along the way.
-Well, I mean, the music is playing...
now is your time to shine.
-Oh, I... didn't really have anything prepared.
But... if you insist.
But... I need a partner.
*
* Jesus was born *
-Not bad, Mr. Astaire.
- * On Christmas day * - Not too bad yourself.
* Gave us his love *
*
* Jesus was born on Christmas day *
* He gave us his love *
* to make our own way *
* To make our own way *
[baby crying]
-I know. Sh-sh-sh. Hi honey, it's okay. Sh-sh-sh.
We should probably get going anyway.
-Yeah. -Yeah.
-I gotcha. -Thank you.
-Merry Christmas you two.
-Aww, Merry Christmas, Mom. How are you?
-How are you, darling?
-Good. Oh, you dress up so well. -Oh, thanks.
-Doesn't he?
Oh, my goodness. Look at you.
-Merry Christmas. You look beautiful.
-As do you.
-Actually, I wanted to talk to you both about something.
So, Joe told me about the barn and the tax liability.
-Yeah. We're, uh... pretty heartbroken over that one.
-Right.
Um... so I looked into the tax laws for Northampton County,
and given the history
and the current relevance to the community,
your barn actually meets all of the requirements
to be a historic structure here.
-What?
-Wait, sorry. What are you saying?
That's a good thing, right?
-It's good.
It means you qualify for several tax credits and grants
and the tax liability is lower than it even was before.
-Oh... my!
-Plus your barn and Jake's memory will be preserved
for generations to come.
-That is incredible. What, what do we owe you?
-Nothing. Nothing, please.
You've both been so kind to me,
um, I'd be honored to file the paperwork.
-You are an absolute saint. Thank you so much.
-You're welcome.
-You have no idea how much this means to us.
I gotta go tell Frankie.
[laughs]
-I'm so glad you found her.
-Look at how happy you made her.
-Frankie! Frankie! You're not going to believe this!
-Thank you so much.
-It's the least I could do.
- I appreciate it.
-Alright. Let's say grace.
Dear God, thank you for this...
this very special time when we can all be together.
For our health and for a family that we know we can rely on.
For our Noah, the beautiful baby growing inside of me,
who will very soon be a member of this...
this loving community.
Thank you for bringing Mary Ann to us.
We are so grateful for everything she's done
for our family.
And thank you for busting her starter switch
so she and Natalie were forced to join us
on this very special day.
[everyone chuckles]
Thank you for this beautiful and bountiful feast and...
and most importantly, for this joyful season,
when we are blessed to celebrate our Savior and his love for us.
With joy, we pray. Amen.
-Amen. -Amen.
-Alright. Now the turkey.
Joe, would you do the... the honors?
-Excuse me. The honors?
-Yeah. Love to. -Fantastic.
-I've never carved a turkey before, so...
this should be interesting.
-Good luck.
-I usually, I mean... No, no.
[overlapping conversation]
*
[chanting] Games! Games! Games!
*
-Chicken!
*
-Snow globe!
*
-Thank you.
*
[chanting] Joe! Joe! Joe!
*
-A cat.
*
-I would like Mary Ann to open this.
-Candy cane!
-Yes!
*
-[all] Whoa!
[gasp]
[cheers and laughter]
-You got me.
-You have a very special family.
-Yeah. They're pretty great, right?
-Mm-hmm.
-[gasps] -Oh, hey!
-Yeah, these shoes just aren't made for ice.
-Okay, here.
I gotcha.
-Thanks.
Hey, um... thanks for inviting us tonight.
-Yeah.
-I don't think I have laughed that hard in a very long time.
You should do it more often 'cause it lights up the room.
-You think so?
-Oh yeah, big time.
And it makes me feel really good when you laugh.
-It does? -Yeah.
Like that, just do that. Just do that.
-Okay.
Maybe, I don't know... maybe you just bring it out of me.
-Yeah. -Yeah.
-Joe!
-Brooke.
Hi.
-Hi.
-Are you serious?
-Look, would you just come in here for a second?
-Don't manage me.
-Tell me, you got big Christmas plans?
-Christmas plans? -Yeah.
-You're unbelievable.
-Just calm down.
-We broke up, like, a week ago. Who is that?
-It's nothing. Can you just be quiet?
The baby's trying to sleep.
The baby?!
-Yes.
-I'm here because it is Christmas Eve and I miss you.
And I thought you might miss me too.
But I mean, clearly, I was wrong.
You look fantastic. Your house is clean?
And you have a new girlfriend and a baby. Happy family.
-Okay, just... look, its... it's not like that. Okay?
They got stranded in the storm.
I'm not gonna leave a woman and a baby outside
so I said they could stay here.
-Yeah, but you're gonna go on romantic strolls
on Christmas Eve.
-Yeah.
-In evening-wear?
-Yes. It just felt right.
-Oh.
-The baby just fell asleep.
It's like a nice little evening stroll.
-Yeah.
-Okay, look. It's not like that, alright?
She's not... we just...
she's been around a couple of days.
She's a stranger, Brooke. Okay?
She's a stranger.
-Stranger?
-At this point, I've known her for a few days.
-Oh... so, for a stranger you'll clean your house.
-Well, she's not a stranger.
-For a stranger you'll put on a suit.
-Yeah.
-For a stranger, oh, you'll what?
Push a stroller. Change your life.
-Brooke. Listen, listen. You are such a wonderful person.
-Yes.
-You are strong and intelligent and beautiful.
-I'm aware.
-Okay, good.
Because I'm telling you,
I'm sorry that I took you for granted. I really am.
-Mm-hmm.
-But listen, I am not the right person for you.
-You know what? Thanks for that.
Whatever.
Good luck to this lady.
What's she going to last... two months?
Help you set a new record?
-Don't say that.
-Merry Christmas.
[door slams]
-Hey. -Hey.
Uh... it's complicated.
-Are you okay?
-Yeah, I'm good.
I'm sorry that you had to hear that.
-Oh...
-That was embarrassing. She's just... ahh! You know?
-I barely heard anything.
-Okay, good. -It's okay.
Um... I was just thinking that maybe I will...
it'll be easier if I just grab a cab tomorrow
and head back to the city,
and then I can just ship the car when it's fixed.
-Are you sure? I mean, I don't think you should...
-Yeah. Yeah.
-Christmas is coming. It's so fun here at Christmas.
We'll go to the church, the kids sing.
Natalie would love it.
-Yeah.
I just feel like I've outstayed my welcome and I should get home
and stop interfering with your life.
-You're not interfering.
You are not interfering with my life.
If anything, you have made my life so much better.
-Listen, I...
I'm grateful that you took us in and, you know,
we were able to help each other out while I was here.
But I need to go home now.
-Don't go.
-Good night, Joe.
-Good night.
-Hi. It's just you and me, baby girl.
[melancholy music]
[hopeful music]
[gasps]
-Whoa, whoa, whoa!
You're not leaving, are you?
Because I made...
I made you some Christmas morning coffee cake.
-It's, uh... yeah, it's time to get home.
-But it's Christmas.
Oh, no.
No. You should... you should stay and celebrate with us.
Especially after everything you've done for our family.
Right, Joe?
I mean, you could just... you go back tomorrow.
-I'm sorry.
You... you have been so welcoming.
Your whole family has.
I'm just... ready for some time alone with Natalie.
-Okay.
-[whispers] Joe, do something.
-What?
-Okay. Well, um... at least take the cake?
-No, thank you. You guys enjoy it.
-Right.
-Thank you both.
I... I don't know what I would've done without you.
-You know, it's not too late to change your mind.
You always have a place with all of us here
and a room at the inn, barring any natural disaster.
-I appreciate it. Thank you.
-Merry Christmas, Mary Ann.
-Merry Christmas, Frankie.
[clears throat]
-I'll just take the cake inside.
-Yeah. Okay.
-Well.
-Yeah.
-You, um...
took a stranger into your home but you didn't have to.
We'll be forever grateful.
-Of course.
Listen, it was a real gift having both of you here.
So... thank you.
Take care of yourself.
-I always do.
You too.
-Hug? -Yeah.
Hey.
Bye.
[tapping]
[car engine starts]
[melancholy music]
-How you doing, buddy?
[whistles]
What's that? What you got here? What's this?
Yeah. I miss her too, buddy.
-[driver] Just need some gas.
-Okay.
Any guidance?
[phone buzzing]
Hi, Mom.
-Hi sweetie.
Last chance for a Christmas visitor.
-I don't know.
-I know it was hard for you as a kid, and...
that's my fault.
But I don't want you to spend your whole life
pushing away every person... who wants to be close to you.
You know, you spend the rest of your year alone,
maybe make an exception for Christmas.
-You're right, Mom.
It's time to try something different and...
I would love to spend Christmas with you.
Is there any way you could come to Bethlehem, Pennsylvania?
I can send you an address.
It's only an hour and a half from you.
-Of course. But what's in Bethlehem?
-[chuckles]
I'll explain everything when you get here. Okay?
I love you.
-I love you. See you soon.
* Oh, holy night. *
* The stars are brightly shining. *
* It is the night of our dear saviors birth. *
* Long lay the world in sin and error pining. *
* 'Til He appears and the soul felt its worth. *
* A thrill of hope the weary soul rejoices. *
* For yonder breaks a new and glorious morn. *
-Looking for someone?
* Fall on your knees. *
-You wouldn't know him.
Hi.
-Hi.
* Oh, night divine. *
* Oh, night when Christ was born. *
-I'm glad you came back.
-Me too.
-I wasn't ready for you to leave.
-I wasn't either.
There's something here... with us.
With this community.
-Sometimes you're just supposed to trust.
-Yeah.
-And have faith.
* The stars are brightly shining. *
* It is the night of our dear saviors birth. *
-Oh, she is so perfect.
[overlapping conversation]
-Hey, slow down, slow down, slow down.
-There you are. -Thank you.
-Of course. I'm so glad you stayed.
We really, really like having you and Natalie around.
-It's been really nice being around so many wonderful people.
So, thank you.
-And Joe said your mom is coming?
You know, we finally have rooms at the inn.
And will she join us for today's festivities?
-I think so, yeah.
Thank you for offering. You've been so kind.
-Of course.
And speaking of today's festivities, um...
[clears throat]
[glass clinking]
Attention, everyone!
As is tradition, in about 20 minutes we'll be heading
to Grandpa Jake's barn.
So, let's finish our ciders and snacks and get bundled up.
-I... I'm just going to make one little change.
-Oh, I can do it.
-No, no, no. I'm good.
-Are you sure? -Yeah.
-Okay.
-Thanks, Mom.
-Look who I found!
-Merry Christmas, sweetie.
[both laughing]
-Um... listen. Before we start celebrating,
Can I just talk to you for a moment.
-Yes, of course darling.
-Just in here, I'll be right there.
-Hi, everybody.
-Could you bring Natalie to me in a moment?
-Yeah. -Okay.
-I know it's all a bit strange,
and I'll explain everything, I promise.
But more importantly, Mom, um... I wanted to apologize.
I'm sorry for being so distant, especially lately.
After, uh, my marriage ended... I felt like a failure.
A failure at... becoming a mother.
A failure to you and a failure to myself.
You know, it's just a lot of pressure.
And I know that you were just trying to be there for me and...
I pushed you away.
-Oh.
-Because I didn't, I didn't know how to accept the help.
-Oh, my goodness.
You know, you make grandmas very happy.
[chuckles]
-I'll take her from here.
-Oh, please. Oh. There you go.
-I just felt like you didn't need me anymore.
-No. Mom.
I don't blame you for anything. Okay?
Yes, it was hard, for both of us. I know that.
But what you don't realize
is that you were setting an example for me.
[baby fussing]
Thank you.
-You're welcome.
-Hi, baby. Yeah.
This is Natalie. Your granddaughter.
-Oh!
-Um... I adopted her a few days ago
on my own with no partner.
I know you might think that, you know,
maybe I'm ruining my life
because I'm doing this on my own.
But this is what I want.
-Is that what you think? That you ruined my life.
You were the best part of it.
You were worth the hard, you were worth the struggle.
Although I know you are perfectly capable,
you are not going to have to do this on your own.
You shouldn't have to.
-I'm realizing that now.
-[chuckles]
-Mom, I still need you. Okay?
-Okay.
-We both do.
-May I hold her?
-Of course.
There we go.
-Oh. [sighs] Hello Natalie.
I'm your grandma.
I'm her grandma.
She's beautiful, darling.
-Thank you.
-Hi. -Hi.
-Mom, this is Joe.
-Joe.
-Joe's been helping me out.
-Oh.
-He's pretty special to me.
-Oh, my goodness.
[all chuckle]
-It's a lot for you, I know.
-What a merry Christmas.
[all chuckle]
-Okay, I'm going to, uh... I'll meet you in there.
Okay.
-As most of you know, my late husband, Jake,
put this lovely display together.
He started this collection 15 years ago and he would say
that just like the beautiful community here in Bethlehem,
every year this collection would also continue to grow.
So, we have continued on with our tradition.
Every year we add a new piece.
So, on that note, Frankie, would you please do the honors?
-Of course. Bob, would you?
-Yes.
Here we go. And...
-Yes! Ta-da!
[applause]
-So this is the moment that Jake would play his...
* Come let us adore him. *
-Joey.
* Come let us adore him, *
[all singing] * Christ the Lord. *
[cheering and applause]
-Well done.
So, this year, just as Jake predicted,
we have also added more beautiful souls to our circle.
Hannah.
-Thank you.
-Our sweet little angel, Natalie.
And Mary Ann.
Who's done more for this family than she knows.
And has enabled us to continue with this tradition.
So I think it's time for our annual Christmas photo.
-Oh, yes.
-Photo? Photo? Bob? -I got the tripod, yep.
-That would be you, my darling. Centre stage.
-Oh. Okay.
[all chatting at once]
-Do you want me to hold her for the photo?
-No. -No?
-No, it's her first Christmas. I will hold her. Thank you.
Tell you what.
You can hold her next year. How about that?
-Next year. -Mmhmm.
-Yeah, I like the sound of that.
-Right?
-Those words are legally binding, right?
-Well... not legally binding, no.
We'd have to, uh... we'd have to seal it somehow.
-Hmm.
-Sealed with a kiss. -Sealed with a kiss.
-Are we ready? Here we go countdown.
[all together] Ten, nine, eight, seven, six, five,
four, three, two, one.
Merry Christmas!
[camera clicks]
*