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♪
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One more meeting, Dad. I promise, then I'm on my way.
Bill: You only have a five hour train ride to North Bay.
There's no rush.
Dad, you're closing the store after Christmas.
We have a lot of work to do.
Anne, sweetheart. Christmas is in three weeks.
I haven't even listed the place yet.
Dad... it was your idea to retire.
I know, I know.
You having second thoughts?
Bill: Not about being closer to you and your sister.
I mean, just, you know, I guess I was hoping that maybe you...
you might change your mind about taking over the place.
Dad, I already have a job. Which I'm now late for.
See you tonight, okay?
Can't wait. Bye-bye.
Okay, bye.
(sighing)
♪
And finally, this is going to be one of the hottest toys
of the season.
It can make and learn custom sounds that kids create,
like whinnies or neighs.
Or they can make it into a talking horse.
It allows them to share what they make with friends
who also have the toy.
What? So the toys can talk to each other?
Welcome to the future. Okay, so that is the overview
for the toys this year.
All of our Sinclair's stores have enough stock
to get us through Christmas. I will be back in January.
Wait, you're the toy buyer for all of our stores,
so how can you be gone at Christmas?
Oh, my part is done. I find the toys, I buy the toys,
now it is your job to sell them.
So, going any place fun?
North Bay, Maine. My dad's closing up his toy shop,
and I'm gonna help him out.
Oh, so toys are a family business.
Yeah, I guess you could say that.
I actually used to make wooden toys when I was young.
That's quite a leap from there to talking horses.
I know, you'd never find anything like these
in my dad's store. If it's not made of wood,
it is not a real toy as far as he's concerned.
Okay, I've got to get going, are there any questions?
- Nope, that was awesome. - Great, Merry Christmas!
♪
- Thank you. - You're welcome!
Merry Christmas.
(knocking) - Door's open!
Hello!
Annie Bananie!
Dad! Why are you calling me that?
Oh, I used to call you that all the time!
Yeah, when I was 10.
Christmas is coming, I'm feeling nostalgic.
So, how was the cab ride over? You hit traffic?
Yeah, I did, actually,
but it gave me a chance to call Tom Novak.
Your boyfriend from high school?
Well, yes, but more importantly, he's a realtor now.
I'm meeting him tomorrow to put the store on the market.
And Dad, you still have to decide if you want to sell
the house, too.
Annie, you didn't have to do that.
I... I would have gotten to it.
You said you wanted to close the store after Christmas.
The longer you take to list it,
the longer it's gonna sit empty.
I've been running that store for 40 years!
And this house, you know...
I have to think about it.
You and your sister grew up here, and...
But I know, I know it's time, right?
Okay, listen. I'll tell you what.
We'll deal with real estate tomorrow.
Tonight? More garland.
That's the Christmas spirit, yes!
(both laughing)
Keith: All right, come on, Jess.
I told Mrs. Wentzell I'd be in early this morning.
Aunt Patty can take me.
No, Aunt Patty can't. She's picking you up after school.
Dad, if you're going to work early,
doesn't that mean you're not going to be late,
just not as early as you wanted to be?
Uh... I don't think Mrs. Wentzell
would appreciate that distinction.
It's almost Christmas. She can't get mad at you at Christmas.
And anyway, aren't you the boss?
I'm the manager. She owns the mill, so she's the boss.
(knocking)
Patty: Hello!
Hi, Aunt Patty!
- Morning! - I brought muffins!
Oh, great! Something for the road.
All right, Jess, come on. We gotta get going.
I'll see you after school, Jess.
Oh, wait, the auditions for the Christmas pageant are today.
Uh, I haven't decided if I'm going to do it.
Jess, you've been begging me every year since we moved here
to be a part of the pageant, you're old enough now!
Why wouldn't you?
'Cause then I'd have to get up in front of people and sing.
You love singing.
Keith: And you really love Christmas songs.
That sounds like a match made in the North Pole to me.
Auditions are after school. Just think about it, okay?
Go get your backpack.
I have to get going too, but I'll try to encourage her
when I pick her up this afternoon.
Thank you. Best sister in-law-ever.
Mm-hm, that's what the coffee mug says.
Hey, um, any word about the mill?
No, not yet. Mrs. Wentzell still hasn't decided
whether or not she's gonna sell.
They employ half the town.
I know. If it closes,
there's gonna be a lot of people out of work.
Maybe you should consider the job they offered you
at the mill in Vermont.
I don't want to uproot Jessie unless I have to.
Took her a long time to get used to North Bay
when we moved here after Janie died.
Besides, if we moved, you and Shawn would miss us too much.
We'd miss Jessie.
Oh, come on. You love having us live next door.
My husband likes you living next door,
but only because you have the bigger TV.
I think you're... okay, I guess.
Eh, you too. I guess.
Jessie!
Ready.
(clearing throat)
Forgetting something?
Oops.
I hate that your dad's store is closing,
but I love that you're here for the holidays.
Colleen, I'm always here for the holidays.
You come in on Christmas Day
and then you go right back to New York.
That leaves very little time
for your best friend since first grade.
Well, she'll have plenty of time with me this year.
Speaking of which, what are you doing tonight?
Mm, exciting stuff.
I'm cleaning out a storage room with my father.
Sounds like every girl's dream.
But how about coming to town hall instead?
We're putting together committees to plan
the town Christmas events.
You're getting a late start this year, huh?
Well, it's the same three events every year.
Silent auction at the tree lighting,
carnival, pageant on Christmas Eve.
It's like cutting and pasting.
The committees really just herd reindeer, so to speak.
Well, I'm already herding some pretty stubborn reindeer
with my dad and the store. I'm meeting Tom Novak
this afternoon to put it up for sale.
Oh! Reuniting with your high school boyfriend?!
That was a long time ago.
- He's single, you're single. - Stop!
After Christmas, I'm going back to New York,
so even if I was still interested in him that way--
Okay, okay, okay. I won't bring it up again.
As long as you agree to help with the Christmas events.
- Oh... - Come on!
You used to do the pageant every year growing up,
this is like coming home.
My dad, the store, remember?
Okay, fine. I'll do something simple and easy, like...
um, like ice! I'll bring ice!
7:30, town hall. And tell your dad I say hi!
♪
Dad?
Bill: Good morning, sweetie!
Why didn't you wake me up?
Because people sleep in when they're on vacation.
Listen, if I was on vacation, I'd be somewhere warm
with a tropical drink in my hand.
Well, that is not very Christmassy.
Where's your holiday spirit?
Oh, it's in New York in January.
Which is when most companies pitch me their ideas
for next Christmas, so by the time December rolls around,
I'm kinda over it.
Well, get over being over it, huh?
Since this is gonna be our last one here,
I want this to be the most spectacular Christmas
in the history of Garrison Toys.
Yeah, it's an end of an era.
Certainly is.
Okay, I thought we'd start in the storage room today.
But I'm not... I-I wanted...
(sighing)
How about... "Silent Night?"
Mm, too slow.
Okay. How about "Jingle Bells?"
- Too fast. - Okay.
Oh, how about "Silent Night"
really fast... or "Jingle Bells" really slow, huh?
Look what I found! Your Santas!
Oh... I haven't seen those in years!
You made these the summer before you went off to college, right?
Yeah, I was going to give them out as gifts that year.
Annie, why didn't you?
I don't know. Changed my mind, I guess.
Oh, listen to this.
"I am Secret Santa. I keep the secret of Christmas
"and only share it with children who believe."
Aw.
"I am Christmas Wish Santa. I remind children
"to believe in the magic of Christmas."
I got these from that advent calendar Mom had.
Do you remember, the ones with all the sayings about Christmas?
I just don't really remember them being quite so sentimental.
Well, I think they're sweet.
- Oh no! - What?
What?
I forgot. I was supposed to bring something
for the toy drive at school today.
- Jessie... - I'm sorry,
but the toy store is right there!
We're already late, okay? And I don't even think it's open.
I can't go to school without a toy.
(sighing)
Okay, okay. Put on your "I'm an adorable ten year old,
"take pity on me" face.
You are frighteningly good at that.
All right, come on. Let's go.
I still wish you did things like this.
Yeah, well, New York apartments are expensive,
even without a wood shop.
So... what do you want me to do with these?
I don't know. I can't really keep them at my place.
We can't just throw them away!
Well, we can't keep every memory in here.
You should at least keep one.
Hm...
- Wood Worker Santa.
- Good choice. - (knocking at door)
- I'll get it. - Okay.
Hi, sorry, we're not open yet.
I know, it's an emergency.
A toy emergency?
I forgot to bring something for the toy drive at school.
Please?
How do I say no to that face.
Okay, come in.
- Morning, Keith! - Morning, Bill!
Is that Miss Jessie I see?
- Hi, Mr. Garrison! - Sorry about this.
We need a little something for the toy drive.
- Sure. - Something special.
Well, you've come to the right place.
I mean, everything in here is very special.
Let's see what we can find. Follow me.
Jessie: Remember, it needs to be really special.
Oh, uh, Keith McClain.
Anne Garrison, Bill's daughter.
Oh, nice to meet you! I hear the store is closing down soon?
Yeah, my dad's retiring.
Well, we will certainly miss it.
This is some quality work, you know?
You don't find that in a lot of toys these days.
Oh, well, I don't know about that.
Don't even get me started on these new high tech toys.
I don't need my daughter's doll having more
processing speed than my laptop.
Well, in today's market, it's--
I mean, who decides we should buy that kind of stuff
for our kids for Christmas, anyway?
That would be me, I'm a toy buyer
for Sinclair's department store.
- Oh. - Yeah.
Oh... um...
I didn't mean that what you did was--
- That's fine. - I didn't mean it in...
- It's fine. - We have a winner!
Jess, go ahead and pay for it.
- My dad thinks he's funny. - All dads think they are.
Uh, that'll be 20.
Keith: Okay, here you go.
Jessie tells me that she's auditioning
- for the pageant today! - Thank you.
- Maybe. - Oh, you should!
It's so much fun! I did it every year when I was growing up.
She's a little nervous about singing in front of people
other than me.
Hm, I think we might have just the thing for that.
Yeah.
"I am Super Santa,
"the super hero in every child.
"Ready to make the world a better place."
I think maybe he can help you with your audition today.
Wow, these are so cool!
- Annie made those. - Keith: You did?
These are really, really good.
Thanks. I, uh, I hope it helps. Merry Christmas.
Thank you very much.
Keith: Thank you for that. Merry Christmas.
Thanks, Bill. All right, come on. Let's go.
Well, that was a good idea.
Now we have something to do with them.
Free gift with every purchase!
♪
Tom: First of all, I can't get over how good you look.
Anne: Tom! I already gave you the listing for my dad's store,
you don't have to keep flattering me!
Tom: I'm serious!
Hey, do they still do the Christmas Carnival?
Every year. Do you remember the year where I won you
that huge snowman stuffy?
You won me the huge snowman stuffy?
No, you only gave it to me because you didn't want
to carry it around the carnival.
- That is not true! - That is so true.
What else do we need to do to get my dad's store sold?
Well, I'll bring over the paper work.
Uh, we'll take some pictures, I'll create the listing,
and then we'll go from there.
Right. Do you think it's gonna be hard to sell?
You know, it's in a great location, but I don't know.
It's probably going to depend on what happens to the mill.
Yeah, my dad told me about that. Mrs. Wentzell wants to retire.
Yes, and a big company came in with an offer for the land.
That's hard to ignore, so... if the mill closes,
that will affect the real estate market.
Well, I appreciate whatever you can do.
Anne, of course.
I should get back to the store.
Yes, and I should get back to the office.
- Okay then. - Uh, since you're in town
for awhile, I mean, why don't we grab a bite
- and catch up on old times? - Yeah, I'd like that.
- Great, I'll give you a call. - Okay, thanks, Tom.
Yep.
♪ Fa la la la la, la la la la
♪ Tis the season..."
- Ho-ho-ho! - Oh, hey! There you are.
I thought you were coming in early.
- Ten year old daughter. - Say no more.
Grab some garland.
I just came in for some coffee. I gotta go see Mrs. Wentzell.
To talk her out of selling?
Oh, Alicia, it's funny you think I have that kind of influence.
You could change her mind. She likes you.
Mrs. Wentzell liking people doesn't happen often.
She's right. It's very rare.
- Mrs. Wentzell! - Hello, Mrs. Wentzell.
Keith, Alicia. Uh, you're drooping.
- The garland. - Oh, sorry.
And I'm sorry, I tried to make it here early, but--
No, no, it's fine. So, uh, what is it that you need
to change my mind about?
(mouthing words)
Well, uh, it's about selling the mill.
Oh, that. Yes, well, I haven't decided yet,
but if I do, it won't be done lightly.
This place was in my late husband's family
for generations... I know how important it is
to the town and the people who work here, so...
I know you do.
Besides, it's time for me to retire.
I want to be closer to my brother, my nieces and nephews.
Walter and I never had children, so they're my only family.
I totally understand.
And that's why I like him.
Teacher: That was great, Gina. Thank you.
You're next, Jessie.
("Deck the Halls" playing on piano)
♪
Jessie?
Anne, you came!
Of course. Figured you'd come find me if I didn't.
You're absolutely right. Let me introduce you around.
Anne Garrison, this is Martin DeLong,
he runs the Christmas tree lot.
- Hi. - So you're a little busy?
It's the most wonderful time of the year.
And you know Alicia Gregory.
Only since what, my entire life? It's good to see you.
You too. It's good to see you.
Oh! And this is Keith McClain!
Yeah, we actually met this morning,
but I was too busy putting my foot in my mouth
for a proper introduction.
It's okay, I'll give you a do-over. Just this once.
Ah, thank you. Nice to see you.
- You too. - Keith, where's Jessie?
Oh, auditioning for the Christmas pageant.
Her aunt and her uncle are picking her up,
so they should be here any minute.
Well, then let's get started.
Everyone, if you could grab a seat, we're gonna start.
Thank you all so much for coming.
A lot of empty seats this year.
Well, let's start by finding our Christmas committee chairs.
They will be responsible for overseeing the events,
including the silent auction at the tree lighting,
the carnival, and the pageant.
Any volunteers?
(chuckling)
Come on, there must be a couple of brave souls out there.
Anyone at all. Just raise your hand. Come on...
- Someone raise their hand. - Dad! Dad!
I got a solo in the pageant! I got a solo!
That's incredible! High-five!
Excellent! Thank you, Keith.
Okay, so we just need one more.
What? Wait, no, no, I-- I wasn't.
No, Colleen, that wasn't--
Colleen: Oh, Anne! Wonderful! Thank you, Anne.
Okay, so Anne Garrison and Keith McClain will be heading up
this year's Christmas committee.
Let's all give them a round of applause.
(clapping)
- What just happened. - I have no idea.
You two are in charge of Christmas.
Uh... huh.
- And everyone gets one of these.
- Martin: Oh, wow! - Thank you, Martin. Enjoy!
Thank you! My grandkids are gonna love all of this.
Oh, hey, Martin, we need to pick up some trees for the pageant.
- Think we can stop by tonight? - Of course.
And I'll be sure to set aside some good ones for you.
Oh, and sorry, what about the tree for
the silent auction lighting ceremony?
Oh no, that's a giant 40 foot tall artificial job.
They keep it at the warehouse by the town hall.
Okay, thank you!
- Just put it right here. - Like right here?
Anne: Yeah, yeah. I think that's gonna work.
♪
"I am Good Neighbour Santa.
"I am always there for people nearest and dearest to me.
"Willing to lend a helping hand when it's needed the most."
Aw, that's nice, Santa. That is nice.
Everybody could use a good neighbour.
(chattering quietly)
Oh, Dad, I'm so sorry. I'll help you with that store room
in a little while, but I just need 20 minutes with Keith
- before he goes to work. - Don't worry about it.
The Christmas events are more important.
Okay, but we are gonna get to it today.
Bill: Of course we will.
I think he's happy to have an excuse to procrastinate.
Well, he obviously loves this place.
And those Santa figurines aren't the work of somebody
who considered wood carving an idle hobby.
I guess you're right.
I used to spend hours in that workshop.
My dad used to have to drag me out.
So what changed?
I guess I did.
Anyway, where were we? Okay, so this weekend,
we've got the silent auction and tree lighting.
Oh, we've got volunteers to collect all the items
and set everything up, so I guess that leaves
just looking at the big artificial tree.
We can stop by the warehouse on the way to the tree lot.
- Great. - Yeah.
And then the following weekend is the carnival,
today I'm going to speak to the guy who is bringing in
all the booths and games, so we're good there.
Right, and I'm making calls to find some sponsors to pay for
everything, we came up a little short on the budget this year.
That just leaves the pageant for Christmas Eve.
Mr. Flannery at the school is handling all the music,
so we just need to get programs and decorate.
This all seems pretty doable.
This is gonna be a piece of Christmas fruitcake.
- Yeah. - Yeah!
What do you mean the tree is gone?
I mean it's gone. Nobody knows where it is.
How do you lose a 40 foot tall Christmas tree?
This is a disaster. The tree lighting is what brings
everyone out, and then they bid on the silent auction items.
The school depends on that to fund the music program.
Okay, can't we just buy another tree?
Do you know how expensive those are? We can't afford it.
Okay, look, let's not panic. Maybe Martin at the tree lot
knows where we can find a big tree.
And I work at a lumber mill. We have a lot of trees!
- Yeah. - We'll figure something out.
The tallest one I've got is about 10 feet.
I don't have anything big enough for the tree lighting.
Well, do you know anyone that would?
Not this late in the season.
It's all right. I'll see what I can find at the mill tomorrow.
Okay, just let me know which ones you want for the pageant,
- and I'll have them delivered. - Thanks, Martin.
- You're welcome. - Thanks.
- Let's go take a look around. - Okay.
That's a pretty great kid you've got there.
Yeah, she's something else. I'm not sure how I got that lucky.
Oh, I'd say good parenting deserves more credit than luck.
You know, I do what I can with Patty and Shawn.
My sister-in-law and her husband, they, uh...
they've been a huge help. It was actually their idea
for us to move here when my wife passed away a few years ago.
Oh, I'm sorry. That must have been tough.
Yeah, it was, but Jessie and I helped each other through it.
You live in New York, right?
Yeah, that's where I tell everyone what their kids
want for Christmas.
I thought I was getting a do-over.
Right. Forgot about that.
You know, I don't think I could ever live in New York.
I need nature. I was born to be a lumberjack.
All you need is a big blue ox.
I keep her in the garage!
Let's go, uh, let's go see what Jessie is doing.
- You grew up here, right? - Yeah, yeah.
I got a scholarship at NYU and just wound up staying,
but I love coming back to visit.
Guess you probably won't be doing that
once your dad closes the store, huh?
No, I... I guess not. Although the way things are going
with this Christmas committee, I probably won't be allowed back.
Yeah, I wonder how we'll ruin the carnival and the pageant.
Hm, probably involves coal and stockings.
- Yeah. - What about the pageant?
It's gonna be great!
You know, Jessie, you should be really proud of yourself.
I was 15 before I got a solo.
You had a solo too? Will you help me with my song?!
Oh, I don't know, um...
Please? It was your Santa that got me to audition
- in the first place. - Really?
Yes! I wasn't gonna do it, but then Super Santa
reminded me to be brave.
Oh, that's very sweet. You sure you want me to help?
I mean, what about your dad?
Have you heard him sing?
- Oh... - Okay, number one, ouch!
And number two... she's totally right.
Oh, Jessie, I don't know. I haven't sung since I was a kid
and I really was not that great.
You had a solo, so you must have been! Please?
Aw, that face...
Okay. I'll help you.
Oh! Aw...
What about that one?
Thank you.
You're welcome.
Tom: So all you have to do is sign on all the places
that are marked, and then we can get the listing posted.
Uh, I need to read all of this first
Uh, of course, Mr. Garrison. There's no rush.
Sorry, this isn't easy for him.
I understand.
(bell ringing)
- Oh, sorry to interrupt! - Anne: It's all right, Keith.
This is Tom Novak. He's our realtor and an old friend.
Keith and I are working on the Christmas events together.
- Oh, nice to meet you. - You too.
How's Christmas going?
Well, two days before the Christmas tree lighting
and we still don't have a tree, so...
Uh, Colleen wants to talk to us to go over our options.
Oh, all right, I'll grab my coat.
Tom: Uh, I need to get back to the office,
but we still need to catch up over dinner,
so I'll make sure to give you that call.
Anne: Okay, sounds good.
See you, Mr. Garrison.
♪
Keith: This looks like a good place to find a tall tree.
Maybe up on that elevation, might be some conifers up there.
We can go take a look.
Hey, thank you for helping me out here.
I'm not doing this for you. I'm doing it for Anne.
Hey! I thought we were friends, huh?
We are. I've just known Anne since she was a little kid.
She's one of the good ones.
Yeah, she seems really nice.
What? I... I said she was nice, I didn't mean anything by it.
Why not? She's smart, she's funny--
And lives in New York.
And will probably never come back to North Bay
after her dad closes the store and moves away.
All right, whatever you say.
Let's go check the elevation.
♪
Colleen: I really hope Keith is able to find us a tree at the mill.
Well, he said he'd check every corner
of the property if he had to.
You gotta admire his commitment.
- Keith is such a nice guy. - Yeah.
A nice, handsome, eligible guy.
Colleen, why do you do this?
Because I want you to be happy!
I am happy! In New York, hundreds of miles from here.
- Oh, who cares about-- - Hi, guys.
- Hi. - Hi.
- Hey. - How'd the tree search go?
Well, we might have some options,
but I'm afraid none as big as the old one.
Well, it's still better than nothing, you know?
Yeah.
And I really think people are still going to want to
show up for the silent auction and the official start
- of the season. - Yeah.
- Right? - Of course,
I just think people will be disappointed,
it's not the best way to kick off the holidays.
And we're sorry, Colleen, but we're still looking,
and so is Martin.
Right, and we still have a couple days.
Colleen: Yeah.
Maybe we'll get a Christmas miracle.
Exactly. Yeah.
♪ Oh come let us adore him
♪ Christ the Lord
- That was good, Jess! - Anne: So good!
I still want you to project a little more though.
It sounds like you're holding back a bit.
That's what Mr. Flannery says.
It's okay, the pageant is in a couple weeks,
so there's still plenty of time to get used to it.
Can we do it again?
Uh, don't you want to decorate the tree?
Can we do both?
You know, that's not a bad idea.
Why don't we sing carols while we decorate?
Sure. Where do we start?
"Deck the Halls?"
♪ Deck the halls with boughs of holly ♪
♪ Fa la la la la, la la la la ♪
♪ Fa la la la la...
♪ Oh what fun it is to ride
♪ In a one-horse open sleigh
See, there you go?
When you're doing something else, it distracts you
from thinking too much about singing.
You weren't holding back at all on that one.
But how am I supposed to do that with my song in the pageant?
I mean, there are no trees to decorate!
Well, you just have to remember what this feels like.
You can even close your eyes and picture the tree and your dad--
And you, and Super Santa!
Okay, well if that works, then great!
Thanks, Anne.
Yeah, thanks, Anne.
You're welcome.
(clearing throat) Okay.
Well... I think we're all done here.
All right. You ready?
Three, two, one...
Aw...
Well, what do you think?
- It... it's nice! - This is the best I could do.
I have a lot of extra trees this year, more than I can sell,
and this is the biggest one.
Martin, it's great. Really, it's...
it's gonna be fine. Right? Right, guys?
- Yeah, a-absolutely. - Yeah.
I gotta get back to the lot. I'll see you all tonight.
- Thanks, Martin. - You're welcome.
Oh, let met help you with that.
I just feel like we disappointed everyone.
I know, me too.
But it's not like we lost the tree, right?
It's not really our fault.
Yeah, that's true.
And we can just make a big deal out of the small tree.
Get people excited anyway. It's sort of the best we can do.
Agreed. Agreed. We've got a lot to do before the carnival
next week, and the pageant the week after that,
so let's not let this get us down.
Right.
♪
(chuckling)
I have an idea!
Thank you, just straight through.
- Have a merry Christmas. - Thank you for helping.
We only have an hour. Think we're gonna make it?
We're gonna try. Hi, thank you. Thank you so much.
- Ah, perfect. - Merry Christmas.
-Hi.
♪
Anne: Jessie, I love those antlers on you.
Thanks! I only wear them for special occasions.
Only because I won't let her wear them all the time.
Tom: Hey, you guys.
- Hey! - Anne, this place is beautiful.
Thanks, yeah, we hope it works.
Oh, no, it's gonna be great.
Ah, someone is bidding on the wreath I wanted.
You save me a dance for later?
Yeah, of course.
Good evening, everyone!
(crowd cheering)
- Okay, that's our cue! - Ready? Let's go.
Christmas is two weeks away,
so who's ready to kick off the season?!
(cheering)
We are going to do things a little differently this year,
and to explain, I have the co-chairs
of the North Bay Christmas Committee,
Anne Garrison and Keith McClain!
(cheering)
Anne: Hello, merry Christmas!
As you can see we don't have the big Christmas tree this year.
Apparently Santa needed it at the North Pole.
(laughing)
Anne: But with the help of Santa's elves and our friends,
we were able to come up with something just as wonderful,
and I think Jessie should push the button.
Also, we're going to be doing the countdown
a little differently this year.
On the count of ten, are you ready? Here we go!
All: Ten! Nine! Eight!
Seven! Six! Five!
Four! Three! Two!
One!
(cheering)
Man in crowd: Isn't that beautiful?!
So if you can't have one big tree...
Have many regular-sized trees!
And even better, these trees were donated to us
by Martin's Tree Lot, so thank you, Martin!
Let's hear it for Martin!
Man in crowd: Come on, Martin! Thank you!
And don't forget to bid on the auction items.
All the proceeds go to the school's music program.
Man in crowd: Yes, yes! It's a good thing!
♪
- Hey! - Hey.
- I think that went well. - I think it went great!
- Everyone seems really happy. - Yeah.
And Colleen says the bids for all the auction items
- are way ahead of last year. - Oh, I'm so relieved.
- That's great. - Yeah.
Hopefully the carnival and the pageant go a little smoother.
Yeah, hopefully.
(music starts up)
- I love this song. - Oh, me too.
Do you want to, uh--
Anne! How about that dance?
- Oh, were you... - Oh, no. No, no, no.
- It's okay, go ahead. - Okay.
♪
(sighing)
♪
Anne, you don't need to do that now.
Dad, you have to get rid of some of these toys,
otherwise you're gonna have all this stock left over
- after you close... - Sweetie.
You need to focus on the Christmas activities, right?
I mean, the carnival is in three days!
Yeah, I know. Keith is getting off work early today
so we can meet the game operator at the events centre.
Oh, and he's bringing Jessie with him after school.
Do you mind keeping her company while we're gone?
Sure! I can show her how to carve.
That's a little much for a ten year old, don't you think?
Well, you know... start with something simple
like a Christmas tree. She can do the sanding and the painting.
Besides, you were carving at that age.
Yes, but I grew up around Bill Garrison, master woodworker.
It was like destiny for me.
You remember your first carving?
I do... it... it was a reindeer.
Or at least it was supposed to be.
- It was beautiful. - No it wasn't!
- Yeah! - Although, at the time,
you said that it was the greatest carving ever done
by anyone in the history of wood work.
- My little girl did it. - Aw, Dad.
You're gonna miss this place.
I think we both will, hm?
Annie.
Missed you at the tree lighting the other night.
Well, with everything going on,
I wasn't sure I'd be welcome this year.
Any update on the sale?
Not yet, no. I'm still considering my options.
If there was someone who would buy the place
and keep it running, I'd do it in a heartbeat.
I tell you, if I had the resources,
I'd be happy to take it off your hands.
- You would? - Of course!
I mean, I wish there was a way I could save the place.
You know, not just for the job or the town,
but, you know, the mill, the people,
it's become like a second home to me.
I understand what you mean.
But at the end of the day, it is a business,
and I have to treat it like one.
Even if it means the town will be upset with me.
Well, you know, one of the items on my to-do list
is to find a sponsor for the carnival.
A small donation and a little encouragement
for the mill employees to help out...
It might help out around town.
You think so?
I think everyone could use a little joy in their lives.
Especially when they're uncertain about the future.
All right, make it happen.
Thank you, Mrs. Wentzell.
♪
So the food vendors are here getting everything all prepped.
Anne: Carnival games are being set up.
Uh, we've got volunteers to man the booths, and thanks to you,
the mill is paying for everything.
- I think we're in good shape. - Great!
You know, I should pick up Jessie.
Your father is probably in need of a break by now.
Oh, my father is probably thrilled to have someone new
to tell all of his stories to.
Okay. Then you want to go grab a bite to eat?
(stammering) Like a work dinner.
Talk about the carnival, the pageant.
Right, right, right. Yeah, we'll talk about work.
- Okay, let's go. - Great.
Okay, well.
Hm? What do you think?
It kind of looks like a Christmas tree.
Well, we're not done yet, right?
Now this is the part where you get to help, all right?
Now first, we have to sand off the edges, right?
Okay, and then we use these tools here to carve the details
like, well, like ornaments and the garland.
- And then we paint it, right? - That's right.
This is really fun!
Why do you not want to do it anymore?
Oh, no, no, I mean, I'm still going to do wood work.
I'm going to have a shop in my new home in Connecticut,
but you know, it will be more of a hobby than a job.
What's the difference?
Well, I mean, running a store is a lot of hard work,
and I've been doing it for a long time.
But you did it because you love making toys, right?
I definitely do.
So if it's fun, and you love doing it,
why are you not doing it anymore?
Hm... uh...
Oh, this looks so good. Okay. Let's dig in, ready?
Here we go.
Mm...
Oh, we should definitely have these at the carnival.
Mm-hm. Okay...
This is why they put New Year's resolutions after Christmas.
Things like this have sold a lot of gym memberships.
I'll have to ask Mrs. Wentzell if she'll include these
in her carnival sponsorship.
I don't really know her that well, but I've never really
thought of Mrs. Wentzell as being the Christmas spirit type.
Well, I think that's just a front she puts on.
She's been nothing but kind to me ever since we moved here.
Where are you from originally?
Ohio. My dad worked at a mill,
so I guess it's kinda in the McClain blood.
But he and my mom retired a couple years ago, so...
Do you get out to see them often?
Not as often as I'd like.
They come here for Christmas Day, so Jessie likes it.
How 'bout you?
You come here for Christmas every year?
Yeah. Yeah, I usually only make it for a day or two,
but my sister and her husband and kids
come in from Connecticut and it's this big celebration.
Must've been amazing as a kid,
growing up around all those toys.
Yeah, I was convinced that it was Santa's workshop.
I kept expecting to see elves.
(chuckling) So, did you?
(whispering) I'll never tell.
(chuckling)
So, do you think you'll miss it?
Uh, yeah, maybe.
But times change, you know?
It's like the Santa carvings.
I loved doing that when I was a kid
but maybe it's time to let those go too.
And replace them with some high-tech doohickey, right?
Doohickey?
What is this, 1952?
I have seen the toy section at Sinclair's,
and I stand by my word.
(laughing)
That is really good, Jessie.
I think you may have a new career path.
Maybe you should take over the store!
- Think I'm ready. - Ha!
(laughing)
(door opening, bell tinkling)
Ah! Hello there! - Anne, look what I did!
- Anne: Jessie, that's so good!
Wow.
Did you do that all by yourself?
- I had a little help. - Just a little bit.
(phone ringing)
Hey, Colleen. What's up?
Oh, really?
So, I guess I'm not the only one in the family
who works with wood now, huh?
Yeah, it was really fun!
And not as hard as I thought it was gonna be.
Mm-hm, you're a natural, kiddo.
- That's really cool. - Yeah.
- Somethin' wrong? - Um...
Jess, lemme show you the new project I'm working on, huh?
What's going on?
That was Colleen. She just got a call
from Mr. Flannery at the school
and apparently he has a family emergency
and has to go to Boston.
He won't be back until after Christmas.
What about the pageant?
I don't know. He does everything-
the music, the arrangements, the piano.
I don't know how we're gonna replace him.
I don't know how I'm gonna tell Jessie.
♪ Oh come let us adore Him
♪ Christ, the Lord
Is that better? - So much better!
Jessie, you're really getting this!
I know my musical sensibilities are in question here,
but uh, for what it's worth, I agree, sweetie.
I hope Mr. Flannery like sit.
When am I gonna practice with him again?
I'm not quite sure, sweetheart.
Uh, Jessie, why don't you sing it through one more time
without the piano while I talk to your dad?
Okay!
♪ Oh come, all ye faithful--
- What are we gonna do? - I don't know.
I've been on the phone all day
trying to find someone with musical skills to take over.
No luck. - I know, same here.
There must be someone in town with musical ability.
(stammering)
You've been doing great with Jessie.
Maybe you could do it.
- Me? - Yeah!
(laughing) No, no, no, not me.
There's got to be somebody more qualified.
Whenever I'm playing piano,
I always picture my mom, smiling and encouraging
but also wincing, a little.
So she taught you?
Yeah, she did. If I wasn't in the workshop with my dad,
I was playing piano with my mom.
Oh. That's sweet.
Yeah, it's been tough for my dad ever since she passed.
That's why my sister and I are encouraging him to retire
and move closer to us.
So you and your sister must be close.
Yeah. I mean, she's in Connecticut
with a husband and the kids and I'm in the city,
but we talk all the time.
So the husband and the kids
and the suburbs thing isn't for you?
I don't know. I mean--
I certainly admit it has its appeal.
Okay, listen. Let's just focus on one thing at a time.
We'll deal with the pageant right after the carnival
tomorrow night.
Right. At least that's still going well.
(whispering) Don't jinx it!
Sorry.
So, I'm thinking we put the houses for Santa's Village
right here. - Yeah, that sounds good.
I'm off to the store. I'll see you two later.
Okay. I'm right behind you, Dad.
We just need a few more minutes here.
We need to finish cleaning out that store room.
Annie, that can wait.
Dad, it can't!
Tom's already listed the building.
You need to get ready to move out.
It'll probably take a while to get an offer,
and then there's escrow.
The carnival's tonight, huh? We'll do it later.
I'll be there shortly and we can do it together.
Okay. - (chuckling)
I think this is payback
for all the times he made me clean my room.
Well, as the parent of a young daughter,
I'm on his side.
Listen, I appreciate you giving up your Saturday
to finalize everything.
Oh, happy to do it.
Patty and Jessie are Christmas shopping anyway.
Is uh, is Jessie looking forward to the carnival tonight?
Oh, yeah.
We have this little thing
with the snowball toss every year.
She thinks I let her win and I go ahead and let her think that.
Mmm. Saving your pride.
Yeah, maybe. - (chuckling)
Oh, by the way,
Jessie had so much fun carving with your dad.
Ah, yeah, I'm not surprised.
In addition to being a great teacher,
he, uh, he knows how to make it fun.
So why don't you do it anymore?
I don't know. It's, uh--
It's just hard to find time for things like that.
It's like with music, you know.
You gotta grow up at some point. - Mmm.
Okay. Let's get back to business.
This village is not gonna build itself.
Oh! That would be really cool if it did!
(chuckling)
Okay, back to work. (clearing throat)
(carnival style music playing)
- You've got this. You got this. - All right.
All: Ooh!
All right, Jess, okay, if you move a little bit to the right--
Dad!
Okay! Okay, sorry. (chuckling)
- (all cheering) - Yes!
- Attagirl! Nice! - Anne: Nicely done!
- Take your pick. - Ooh, I pick this one.
Okay! Let's go play another game.
Okay. Bye!
So, we really need to talk about the pageant.
All right. Sure, yeah. We can meet at the shop tomorrow
and see what we can come up with.
Or, you could just take over from Mr. Flannery.
- Exactly! - Hmm.
Oh, look, it's Tom!
Hey! There you are. You havin' fun?
Yeah, we're just celebrating Jessie's win
at the snowball toss. - Oh, nice!
You know, it used to be my favourite game when I was a kid.
Anne, you up for a little friendly competition?
- You're on. - Let's do it.
I don't know what we're gonna do about her.
Those are for you.
Yeah.
Neither do I.
Anne: That is so fun!
I'm so happy I won this for you.
Oh, you just want me to carry this around all night,
don't you? - (chuckling)
- Hey. - Hey.
So, I have to get going.
I have an early morning showing on another property.
Oh, okay.
Um, Keith, it was great to see you.
You too.
Anne, I will call you tomorrow.
We already have a couple of nibbles on the building.
- Oh, great! - Yeah.
- Good night. - Okay, good night! Bye.
- Cotton candy? - Yes, please!
So, uh, Tom seems like a nice guy.
Yeah, he is. I've known him forever.
Mm.
It's nice to have connections like that, you know?
- Yeah. - It's tough in New York.
So, now boyfriend back there?
No. I mean, I work all the time.
Or, I don't know.
Maybe I just haven't met the right guy.
Ah, I get it. I'm in the same boat.
I dated a couple times after my wife passed away
but uh, you know, between work and Jess...
some day. - Yeah, some day.
We've only got a week until the pageant.
Everyone is getting very nervous.
Yeah, I got a call from the guy who plays the organ
at the church down the street,
and he said that he'd play the piano,
but as far as directing the choir,
the barbershop quartets, and the solos,
we're still looking.
Colleen: Well, if only we knew someone who was musical
that did the pageant every single year.
Yeah, it would be convenient
if someone like that was around.
Yeah, guys, there's a big difference
between singing in the pageant when you're a kid
and directing it.
Come on, you were doing so great with Jessie.
Yeah, not the same thing either.
Well, if we don't find someone in the next day or two,
we're going to have to cancel the whole thing.
Well, we still have a couple days to keep looking.
Bill: Ha!
Would you look at that, huh?
It's Music Santa. Hmm?
"I am Music Santa.
"I remind people that a Christmas carol is a joyous way
"to bring the holidays to life and life to the holidays."
Really, Dad? You just happened
to stumble on this one? - Well, you know.
Anything is possible at Christmas.
Okay, fine! - Yay!
- I'll do it! - (laughing)
That's my girl!
(all laughing)
Yes!
♪ We wish you a merry Christmas and a happy new year ♪
Excellent!
Okay, we're gonna take a quick break
and then the Twelve Days of Christmas is up next.
Thank you.
Sounds great!
Really?
I just wish we had a few more voices to fill it in.
Anne, it's going to be fantastic.
Just relax and enjoy it.
Right. Right!
We're singing Christmas carols.
This should be jolly, not awkward.
No. Not as awkward as when you hugged Keith yesterday.
Oh, that was just a spur-of-the-moment thing.
Like, "Woo! I'm doin' the pageant!
"Here, have a friendly,
"doesn't-mean-anything hug of good tidings."
"Good tidings"?
It's the Christmas decorations.
(chuckling) Well, what about Tom?
You've been spending time with him too.
Oh, just a couple meetings about selling the building.
Just sounds like you've got a lot of possibilities.
Well, none of it means anything.
After Christmas, I'm gone. I'm back to New York.
So, it can't mean anything.
Okay. If you say so.
♪ We wish you a merry Christmas ♪
But tell me this-
when you say it can't mean anything,
do you mean Keith or Tom?
(sighing, nervous chuckling)
Hey! Santa's Village is starting to look good!
This is the House of Candy Canes.
We can just hang them on these little hooks here.
And this is the House of Snowmen.
- I love it. - Thank you.
Listen, I'm gonna practice a little more with Jessie
and then she's gonna be done for the day.
- Keith: Okay. - Wanted to let you know.
- All right. I'll be here. - Okay.
(Keith whistling "Jingle Bells")
You're very merry!
Yeah, well,
I'm just a happy elf whistling while he works.
That's the Seven Dwarfs.
Right. Well, I'm whistling a Christmas carol, so it counts.
All of this merriment doesn't have anything to do
with a certain Christmas Committee co-chair, does it?
Maybe. A little.
Do you like her?
I said "a little".
Did you talk to her about it?
No, I-- I don't know how she feels, okay?
And the whole fact that she's heading back to New York
after Christmas and--
you know, this whole Tom thing.
All of which could be sorted out
by, you know, talking to her?
Hmm.
But at the very least, you could do something
to show her how you feel!
(whistling)
It's too late to change my song, right?
You don't wanna do "Oh Come All Ye Faithful" anymore?
I heard Kylie Morgan practicing.
She's doing "Hark the Herald Angels Sing".
It's really, really good. Better than me!
Jessie, it's not a competition.
I know, but I wanna be really, really good.
And you are!
What if people don't like it?
People are gonna love it. Are you kidding?
I'm gonna love it,
your dad is gonna love it.
In fact, I bet he's gonna be cheering you on so loudly,
it's gonna embarrass you.
Probably. Does your dad ever do stuff like that?
(chuckling) All the time.
That's what dads do, though!
To him, everything I do is worth cheering about.
Like your Santas.
Yes, perfect example.
He thinks they're great.
So do I!
Oh, thank you. But they're a little--
(sighing) --I don't know.
I mean, wouldn't you rather have
a computerized programmable horse
that you can teach to talk?
I mean, that's pretty cool,
but I think Santa's better than a talking horse any day,
don't you think?
Yeah. Yeah, maybe he is.
You should make more.
You know, Jessie, I'm not sure I'd still know how.
You will. And Santa will help you remember.
Can't argue with that. (chuckling)
I'll think about it, okay?
Now, let's practice.
Bill: Remember this?
Hmm?
This is the first tool you ever used.
Still has your initials in it.
(giggling)
You used to have to pry this thing out of my hand.
Mm-hm.
You'd have stayed up all night if I hadn't.
(giggling)
Oh, so many good memories here.
Yes, there are.
Not gonna be easy to say goodbye to them, is it?
No, it's not.
But, I don't know, maybe one day I'll start carving again.
It's not really the most practical hobby
for a New York apartment.
Dad, there's still time if you wanna reconsider.
I don't want to change my mind.
I can't come back and run the store.
Why not? I mean, you love this place.
I do, and I love you, but this--
It's just not me anymore.
I think it's more than you're willing to admit.
Dad, I'm...I'm sorry. I can't.
(sighing)
Okay.
Well, let's make this the best Christmas ever, okay?
Yeah.
One for the road.
- Deal. - Deal!
- (chuckling) - All right.
Hey, you know, this can wait.
Why don't we just close up shop early for the day
and go and do something fun?
You don't have to ask me twice.
All right. - (both laughing)
(door opening, bells tinkling)
- Hey! - Jessie: Hi, Mister Garrison!
Hi, Anne! - Hi!
What are you two doing here?
Well, we were on our way to go ice skating
and Jesse wanted to know
if you two were interested in joining us.
Well, talk about good timing
'cause we were just saying how we should close up shop early
and go do something fun.
Keith: Perfect.
- Anne: Dad, ice skating? - Bill: Great!
But I'm not sure I'm going to be able to pick you up anymore
if you fall down.
Don't worry. Dad won't let Anne fall.
(awkward chuckling)
All right.
All right, well,
what are we waiting for?
Oh, you're better at this than you said you were!
Are you kidding?
You've had to keep me from falling
like a dozen times!
I don't think it was quite a dozen times.
It was close to that!
(both laughing) (phone buzzing)
Oh, hang on. That's Tom.
Hey, Tom, we're at the ice skating rink.
What's up?
That's amazing!
Oh, my--wow! Okay, yeah, yeah, yeah.
We're gonna be there really soon.
Okay.
Thank you!
We got an offer on the place!
Wow, that was fast.
Anne: Yeah, I know.
It's-- it's really fast.
Well, you must be happy.
I mean, now your father gets to be closer
to your sister and you and-- New York.
Yeah.
(chuckling) Yeah, it's great.
Yeah.
It's great.
You're actually cleaning out the closet.
Well, as long as we're cleaning house,
I figured I'd help you out.
What about the store? You need to get ready to open.
Yeah, well,
I'll get to it.
Aw.
"It Came upon the Midnight Clear".
This is one of Mom's favourites.
Yeah.
Your mother always loved it when you played piano.
(playing stopping)
(playing continues)
(sighing)
Keith: Jessie, we need to go!
I'll take that as a "Yes, Father, I'm ready to leave!"
(chuckling)
It's her last day of school before winter break.
Would you want to go?
Yeah, fair enough.
So anyway,
you were saying the guy from the mill in Vermont called?
Yeah. He wants me to make a decision
or he's gonna give the job
to someone else.
What are you gonna do?
I don't know. I don't even know
if Mrs. Wentzell's gonna sell the mill or not.
Are you willing to take the risk she won't?
Well, it's not just about me.
It's-- it's about all the people who work for me.
It's about the entire town, you know?
There's gotta be a better solution to this.
Some way to save the mill.
Keith, you know, one of the reasons my sister loved you
is because you were always thinking of other people
before yourself.
But at some point, you've gotta do what's best for you,
and for your daughter.
I think what's best for Jessie is to stay here,
in the place she calls home with her favourite aunt and uncle.
(Colleen chuckling)
Well, if you move to Vermont,
then maybe we'll go with you.
(scoffing)
Sure, you'll just quit your jobs and sell your house.
Why not? People do it all the time.
You'd really do that for us?
I'd consider it for Jessie.
You, I'm still iffy about.
Ah. (chuckling)
Yeah, touché.
Jessie told me to tell you
that it is time to go home and bake Christmas cookies.
Ah, yes.
That has been very high on the priority list all day.
Well, it wouldn't be Christmas without Christmas cookies.
You know, I should build a House of Christmas Cookies.
Only if I can live in it.
Which one are you working on here?
This is the House of Mistletoe.
We're gonna hang sprigs of it all along the roof line here
and along all the other houses
and when people come in to take a look--
Very sneaky.
I like to think of it as romantic.
That too.
So, how's the pageant rehearsal going?
It's, uh, going good. I think.
I hope. (chuckling)
Honestly, back in New York,
I can juggle dozens of product lines and toys
all at the same time. No problem.
But here, I'm having a hard time deciding whether "Silent Night"
should come before or after "Joy to the World".
Well, sure. I mean, that is a very important decision.
It could make or break this entire pageant.
(chuckling) I know you're kidding,
but that's actually not far from where my head is at.
Between this and the shop, like--
You didn't think it would sell?
No, I did, I just didn't think it would happen so fast.
Aw, well, you having second thoughts?
No. I mean, it's-- it's the right thing.
Well, that doesn't mean it isn't hard.
It's kind of like saying goodbye to your childhood.
Yeah, and I thought I was ready to do that
and then I came back here and I saw the shop and this town.
I guess I didn't realize how much I've missed it.
So, it's mostly about the town?
Well, and the people in it, of course.
Of course.
Well, uh, I should probably go get Jess
so we can get started baking.
You cannot leave Christmas cookies waiting.
- Nope. - (chuckling) Okay.
Ooh. Do you, uh... wanna join us?
- Yeah. I'd like that. - Yeah?
- Okay, I'll go get Jessie. - Yeah.
So, what do you think of my snowmen?
They look great, Jess.
So, Jessie,
the pageant's in a few days.
How you feelin' about your song?
Good, thanks to you.
And Santa.
Oh, I think you deserve all the credit.
Getting a solo your first time in the pageant.
You should be really proud of yourself.
I know I am. - So am I.
Okay, but I still think it was Santa who helped me be brave.
Well, maybe we should all get one of those.
Good idea, Dad!
Maybe Anne can make you a new one.
She said she was thinking about making more.
Yeah, I did say that,
but I think it would take a lot to get me back in the wood shop.
Take a lot how?
Well, I'd really only do it for someone I cared about.
I mean, cared that they really needed one.
Well, Dad always says anything's possible at Christmas.
♪ There'll be scary ghost stories ♪
♪ And tales of the glories
♪ Of Christmases long ago
♪ It's the most wonderful time of the year ♪
♪ There will be much mistletoein' ♪
♪ And hearts will be glowin'
♪ When loved ones are near
♪ It's the most wonderful time ♪
♪ It's the most wonderful time
♪ It's the most wonderful time... ♪
♪ Of the year
Oh, Keith.
Um, can I speak to you for a moment?
Of course.
Just finishing up a few things
before we shut down for the holidays.
Yes, about that.
(sighing)
Once we've gotten past the holidays,
I've decided to accept the offer on the mill.
I know that's not the news you were hoping to hear.
No,
but, uh, I understand.
I doubt to the rest of the town will.
They're good people,
and you know, resilient.
I'm sure they'll find a way to bounce back.
By the time the deal closes,
people will have figured out a way to move on.
Well, I hope you're right.
(sighing) So, can we go to my office,
go over the details, and then we'll talk to the staff?
Okay, yeah.
You go ahead. I'll be right there.
Okay.
(sighing)
(phone ringing internally)
John? Keith McLean.
Uh, I really appreciate your patience on the job offer.
Well, um, I wanted to find out
if there were other positions available.
Yeah. We're shutting down the mill here
and I'd like to help out as many people as I can.
Mm-hm.
Colleen: I really wish she would have waited until after Christmas.
You know, she's just working out the details of the deal.
She wanted to give everyone as much notice as possible.
It's still gonna put a damper on things.
The pageant is tomorrow night.
I'm not sure people are gonna feel like celebrating.
Okay, well then we're just gonna have to put on
a little extra Christmas cheer, okay?
Merry and bright.
And all that stuff.
You're right. It's times like this
that people need Christmas more than ever, right?
Right.
I'm sure it'll all work out fine.
Merry Christmas to you.
(chuckling)
Mrs. Wentzell, what a lovely surprise!
Mr. Garrison, just the man I was looking for.
I want to buy something else
for my grandniece for Christmas.
Ah!
I have just the thing for you.
My Annie had one when she was that age and she loved it.
Oh.
That's just perfect.
I don't suppose you could have it shipped?
Not a problem at all.
I knew I could depend on you.
Well, for this last Christmas here.
Yes!
I don't know what the town's going to do with you.
Will you miss it?
Absolutely.
But, I mean, you can relate to that, right?
I heard about the mill.
You're gonna miss it too, won't you?
Yes. I will.
It was originally my husband's passion.
When he died, I didn't know anything
about running a business but I kept at it.
It took time,
but in the end I made that mill my own.
It's tough to let that go, isn't it?
Well, like you say, it's time.
Well, we're not getting any younger, are we?
Oh, speak for yourself.
(laughing)
Oh!
I have something for you. - Oh.
Um...ah, yeah. Yeah.
For you.
"I am the Santa of years yet to come,
"looking to the future and all the Christmases ahead."
That's beautiful!
Thank you.
You're welcome.
And Merry Christmas, Mr. Garrison.
And to you as well, Mrs. Wentzell.
Georgina: Hey, Keith!
Hey.
I'm glad I caught you.
I just wanted to thank you for thinking of me
for that job at the mill in Vermont.
No need to thank me.
It was up to me, there'd be a job for everybody.
I'm just sorry they're making you come with us
to the interviews tomorrow!
I mean, you already got the job.
Well, they just want my input on the new candidates.
I just wish they wouldn't have insisted
on doing it on Christmas Eve.
Mrs. Wentzell may not be Mrs. Claus, but, uh,
she wouldn't do something like that.
Well, you gotta do what you gotta do to get the job.
We'll just go and be back in time to hear Jessie sing.
We absolutely need to be back for that.
So, what did Anne say about all this?
Haven't told her yet.
Why not?
Just, with everything going on, I just haven't had it.
Oh. Okay.
I thought it was because you didn't want to tell her
that you were taking a job in another state.
She's heading back to New York,
her father's moving to Connecticut. It just--
It doesn't make a difference whether I stay or not.
Then I don't think there's any reason not to tell her.
Right?
Hey. How's it going with the pageant?
Uh, it's uh, it's a bit of a challenge.
Everyone's worried about what's gonna happen
after the mill closes.
Ah. (sighing) Anything I can do?
Mmm, talk Mrs. Wentzell out of selling?
(chuckling) Yeah.
Well, you know, they are still negotiating,
so it wouldn't be official until after the holidays,
but unless someone comes in with a better offer,
I think it's a done deal.
I don't suppose we're gonna make enough money
off selling the store to be able to buy the mill?
I don't think so? (chuckling)
But would you do that if there was?
You know, I'm uh,
I'm not happy about what it's gonna do to the town,
but it's really just wishful thinking.
Well, maybe there's a reason besides the mill and the store
that you'd want to stay for.
(bashful chuckling)
Yeah, you, uh, you may be right.
But it's not me, is it?
Tom.
♪
Oh, um, you know,
that other reason that you might stay in North Bay for?
Maybe you shouldn't let it slip away.
Whatever or whoever it is?
Colleen: I really need you to take my shift tomorrow, Joanne.
'Cause Keith is going out of town and I need to watch Jessie.
(knocking at door)
Hold on. Come on in!
Someone's out the door. Just give me a sec.
Hi! - Hey!
- Oh, I'm sorry, are you on-- - That's okay.
Um, is Keith here?
No. He went to the office to pick up some stuff
to present at the mill in Vermont tomorrow.
Vermont?
He's been offered a job there.
And he's going tomorrow?
Just to talk to them about other positions for his people.
- But he's moving away? - You know what?
Let me just finish getting my shift covered.
I'll be right back.
Do you want to keep this?
Huh!
I carved this train for you when you were three years old.
I know.
I used to love playing with it.
I would always dream that I was on it
and it was taking me to my very own castle.
Mmm. With a handsome prince?
Dad, I was three! (laughing)
The only thing I cared about was the castle.
And the horses and the stable, of course.
Of course.
Well, um, it's yours.
You can decide what you want to do with it.
I'll think about it.
Okay.
(chuckling)
You know, it's--
it's been really quiet around here without Jessie.
Yeah. I guess it is.
Have you, um-- have you talked to Keith?
About what?
Well, I don't know.
Him possibly moving to another state,
uh, you living in New York?
Well, that was gonna happen regardless.
And besides, he's already left to help with an interview, so.
Ah.
Well, maybe when he gets back, huh?
Yeah. Maybe.
Are you ready?
Ready as I'll ever be.
You seem less than enthused about this.
You need to work on that before we get there.
I will, I just need a little time to psych myself up for it.
These are good jobs, Keith.
I know, and I'm grateful
that there's potential jobs for everyone. I just--
There's gotta be something more we can do here.
Like what?
I wanna save the mill.
How?
You have some secret inheritance laying around
that I don't know about?
Unfortunately, no.
I get why this is important to you.
But is it really just about the jobs,
or is there something more to it?
Look, it's not just about the jobs, okay?
It's about the people.
It's about the town and it's about...
There must be some other way.
Well, if there was,
someone would have done it by now.
We have got to hit the road.
Okay.
Um, just give me one minute, okay?
Hey, kiddo.
I thought you were leaving.
I am. I just wanted to, um--
You'll be back in time for the pageant though, right?
Absolutely.
You're gonna be great, you know.
I hope so.
I know so.
Come on. Give me a hug.
(sighing)
Be good for Aunt Patty?
I love you.
I love you too, Dad.
(sighing)
♪
I saved you guys some seats right up in the front row.
I'm so proud of you.
- Break a leg. - Thank you!
It's like the whole town turned out.
I know!
And I was worried no one was going to show up.
I guess ultimately everybody decided they needed
a little Christmas spirit to cheer them up after all.
Right, no pressure. (chuckling)
Listen, have you seen Keith?
I haven't seen him.
But we should get started.
Okay. It's gonna be great! - Okay.
(giggling)
(exhaling)
(humming warm-up)
Okay, the choir's almost done.
Quartet, take your places. You're up next.
And don't forget to smile and have fun.
It's Christmas!
Okay.
Hi, Jesse.
You're up next. Are you okay?
I think so.
But I have Super Santa here, just in case.
Did I ever tell you why I made those?
I was gonna give them out as Christmas gifts
because I wanted the people I cared about
to get something meaningful.
So then, why'd you keep them?
Because I went off to college in New York
and I saw this big city
and I met all these new people and it was wonderful
and exciting, and I don't regret any of it.
But, it may me forget about some of the things
that are important to me.
- Like your Santas. - Yeah.
I thought they were just part of my childhood.
Just fanciful things I made when I was a kid,
and that's they wouldn't mean anything to anyone.
- They meant something to me. - I know.
And you helped me realize
that they still mean something to me too.
And it's just like you're saying.
It's meaningful to you
and to everyone who's gonna get to hear your beautiful voice.
Have a great pageant, okay? Be brave.
You too.
♪ Heavenly peace
♪ Sleep in heavenly peace
(applause)
Beautiful.
Man: Bravo!
(crowd chatter subsiding)
(piano playing)
♪ Oh, come all ye faithful
♪ Joyful and triumphant
♪ Oh, come, ye
♪ Oh, come, ye ♪
♪ To Bethlehem
♪ Come and behold Him
♪ Born the king of Angels
♪ Oh, come let us adore Him ♪
♪ Oh, come let us adore Him
♪ Oh, come let us adore Him ♪
♪ Christ, the Lord
(applause and cheering)
Hi. Hi.
Hello, everyone.
I hope everyone's enjoying the show as much as I am.
That was really wonderful, Jessie.
(chuckling)
As you know, I am retiring.
I have not changed my mind about that.
But I have changed my mind about selling the mill.
This was never about money to me.
This was about moving closer to my brother and his family
and enjoying my golden years.
(chuckling)
I never wanted to close the mill
but I didn't think there was any choice.
Until today. Keith?
(whispering) Great job, sweetie.
Thank you, Dorothy. (clearing throat)
Ever since I found out that Mrs. Wentzell was retiring
and considering selling the mill,
I've been trying to figure out a way to save it.
It took me receiving a very special Christmas gift
to come up with an idea.
Is that one of your Santas?
Yeah, it is.
I'd like to read what it says.
"I am the Santa of Love.
"Because at Christmas and all year round,
"there is no greater gift than love."
I would like to say that this little guy inspired me,
but it's about more
than just a wonderfully carved figurine and a card.
It's about where it came from,
who it came from.
And how much it meant that she was willing to make it.
For me.
So I was thinking about all that,
and an idea came to me.
Dorothy?
I thought that because I had no family here
that was interested in running the mill,
that I had to close it down...
until Keith helps me realize
that I do have family here.
All of you.
(crowd murmuring)
So, I'm giving the mill to the town.
(gasping in shock)
And Keith is going to be in charge
of making sure it runs for a long, long time.
(cheering)
- I'll be right back. - Okay.
Dad. Dad!
Come with me.
What?
Sweetie. (chuckling) Sweetie!
What's up?
Sell the store to me.
What?
I'll take it over.
I'll run it.
You can spend half the year in Connecticut with Lisa
and the other half here with me.
Maybe you can help me out at Christmas.
What about your job, your life in New York?
I think I'm ready to come home.
What do you say?
- Yeah! - (giggling)
(laughing) Yeah!
(both laughing)
Oh. Uh,
I almost forgot.
I was going to give this to you later, but--
My reindeer!
I can't believe you found him!
Maybe you could carve a few more and keep him company, huh?
(chuckling)
Ah.
I'll give you guys a minute.
Okay.
You ran out without your coat.
Thanks. It's freezing.
That was, um, quite the speech.
Yeah? It felt a little long.
Nope.
Just perfect.
So you got the Santa, huh?
Yeah, I did.
Now you can put it next to Jessie's.
I think I got a-- better place for it.
I can put 'em both in the House of the Wooden Santas.
I don't know what to say.
Say you'll stay.
I know you and Tom--
Tom.
(scoffing) Tom is just a friend.
A good friend,
but the Santa of Love is the first thing I've carved
since I was a kid.
And I didn't do that for Tom.
I did that for you.
Um...so, uh...
So, um, the mill is staying open
so I'm thinking the toy store should too.
(chuckling)
Well-- (clearing throat)
This town definitely needs a toy store.
Merry Christmas, Anne.
Merry Christmas, Keith.
♪