[♪♪♪]
Today is December 19th, Marcus.
Go ahead.
What is that?
Let me see. [gasps]
That red sparkly paint you wanted.
I can't wait to see what you do with this.
So it's six days before Christmas.
You know what that means?
I'll get the aprons, you get the bowls.
Come on.
Okay, Major Tom is ready for lift-off.
[imitating rocket launch]
What do you think?
Well, it's not how they look.
It's how they taste.
Mm!
Hey, sweetie! How was piano lessons?
Good.
Actually...
Mr. Harrison asked
if there was a chance we'd be home before the 23rd.
A slot opened up in the Holiday Recital,
and he wants to give it to me.
Oh, I'm sorry, Maya.
We're going to be in Orchardsville
through Christmas.
But, hey, that is so cool that he asked you.
You must have really impressed him.
Well, I've been working on
an arrangement
of "It Came Upon The Midnight Clear"
It's an advanced piece,
but Mr. Harrison said I was ready.
We should celebrate.
Grab a piping bag!
What are we making?
Gingerbread mailboxes?
Excuse me, these are astronauts,
thank you very much.
That was my next guess.
Uh-huh.
We made them for Marcus.
But we made these...
for you.
[♪♪♪]
Thanks, Mom.
[timer beeping]
Ah!
Marcus, it's time for your reading.
We've gotta get you cleaned up.
Let's go, sweetie, come on.
[♪♪♪]
Did you see they have horse stables?
Marcus doesn't ride horses.
Well, maybe it's time for him to try.
He might enjoy it.
You know, I sure am glad you're coming.
I don't think I could do this on my own.
I thought Rick was meeting you there?
Rick...
[sighs]
Rick has a way of being a million miles away
even when he's standing right next to you.
Anyway, I don't even know what I was thinking
doing this so close to Christmas...
Why did you?
Because he was so insistent.
You know how he does,
swoops in when it's convenient for him.
[sighs]
Mom, I'm just tired of reliving the same argument,
over and over.
Marcus is 18.
It's always hard
to watch your little ones fly away,
but he's gonna need his parents to give him that nudge.
Mom, it's different with Marcus.
With his autism,
he depends on structure and consistency,
waking up to familiar faces, doing familiar things.
Besides, we've tried programs like this before,
and they just haven't worked out.
I just don't think he's ready for this type of change.
He's not ready...
or you're not ready?
All right, big boy,
time to turn in.
We've got a big day tomorrow.
Good night, sweetheart.
I love you to the moon and back.
Okay.
Shouldn't we be getting on the road
if we're planning on getting there by 4:00?
Well, I mean,
Marcus was so excited
to try out his new colored pencils,
and I'm sure it'll be fine
if we get there a little later than planned.
Besides, it'll give me a chance
to do a few more loads of laundry.
I heard you were in charge of the Christmas playlist
for our trip.
I was hoping you might indulge your grandma,
and add a little Nat King Cole.
[chuckles]
Sure.
I know you weren't expecting to spend Christmas
away from home, but...
give it a chance.
It could be fun.
We couldn't have picked a nicer day to travel.
Your turn.
I'm not really up for the positivity game.
Just one?
For me?
We get to spend Christmas all together...
That's good.
That's really good.
You win,
this round of the Positivity Game.
We're going to be leaving soon,
on a trip.
It's going to take us far away from home.
Marcus, look at me.
We're going on an adventure,
just like the astronauts in your book.
There is nothing to worry about.
I will be by your side the whole time.
Wow...
That Christmas tree is amazing.
I love what you're doing with the sparkly red paint.
It's beautiful.
Mom...
Hmm?
Could you drive a little faster?
Cars are backed up behind us.
I'm going the speed limit.
You're driving ten miles under the speed limit.
I'm just being cautious.
[cars zoom past, horns blaring]
You're such a road hazard, Mom.
[laughing]
[♪♪♪]
♪ Christmas Eve is coming soon ♪
♪ Now, you dear old man ♪
♪ Whisper what you'll bring to me ♪
♪ Tell me if you can... ♪
Hey, guys, there's a Christmas market
in the middle of town.
I thought it might be fun to go down there.
We can do some shopping.
Won't you be busy with Marcus's tour?
Shouldn't take more than an hour or two.
We'll have the whole day to explore.
Why do you have two suitcases?
This one is for clothes.
The other is for a little Christmas cheer.
Oh.
Dad!
Baby girl!
[laughing happily] Oh...
Hey, buddy!
Oh...
Whoa, you need a shave.
Look at that.
[laughs fondly]
Robin, Merry Christmas.
Merry Christmas.
Hello, Lena.
Hello.
So what do you think?
Pretty nice place to ring in the holidays, huh?
It's lovely.
I made sure you got a room with the best view, baby girl.
Come on, Marcus.
You're two hours late.
You missed our appointment.
You promised that you would give this a chance.
I'm here, Rick, aren't I?
Lena, this is--
Hope Hills will still be open tomorrow.
We can go decide then.
It's not just our decision.
Hope Hills has to decide if Marcus is a good candidate.
Wait, they decide on Marcus?
Yes.
They've got to make sure
that he's a good fit for the program.
This is their first opening in two years.
Here, I've got it--
That's okay. I got it.
Yeah.
Hello! Welcome!
I'm Beth.
Hi, Beth. I'm Lena,
this is my mother, Robin,
my daughter Maya,
and this is my son, Marcus.
And you've already met Rick.
We are so happy to have you all here.
Did you get a chance to see Hope Hills?
Uh, tomorrow.
We have two double rooms for you.
Rooms three and four,
and we serve breakfast between 8:00 and 9:00.
Double-blooming Candy Canes?
Yes.
Nana owns a flower shop.
Did.
I'm retired,
but amaryllis is my favorite Christmas flower.
I haven't done much
in the way of Christmas decorations this year.
Time can get away from you.
Well, this is all you need.
Uh, I did just bake some biscotti,
in case you wanted a snack.
You can find it in the kitchen.
Please, just have the run of the house,
and let me help you with your luggage?
Oh, no, no, no.
Thank you for such a warm welcome.
Yes, thank you so much.
[Maya] Thank you.
You want to thank Miss Beth, Marcus?
You're so welcome.
Our house is your house, Marcus,
and let us know if there's anything you need, Maya.
Thanks.
All right, let's get settled in.
[♪♪♪]
[knocking on door]
Special delivery for a Mr. Marcus?
They were selling them
down at the Christmas market downtown.
That is really nice.
Yeah.
Yeah...
Um, could use some decorations, though.
Say no more.
[laughing] A little Christmas cheer?
I never travel without my essentials.
Catch!
Ho ho! Okay!
Come on, Marcus,
let's see what we can do with this tree.
All right,
I think we're going to need some light there, uh, Grandma?
You got lights?
I guess not.
[lid clattering]
Maya...
What are you doing up?
Nothing.
Were you about to have cookies at 11:00 at night?
No.
Well, I hope not.
Not without milk.
Oh, my gosh.
What is that?
That you're tasting?
Mm-hmm.
Anise...
hazelnut...
and orange.
Mm.
So good.
Happiness.
[chuckles]
-These are crazy good. -Mm...
Maya...
I know it was a lot to ask
that you spend your Christmas up here
away from home,
but...
this is a once in a lifetime opportunity for Marcus.
I know.
You are such a good sister.
Oh.
I was just coming down to get a...
glass of water.
Mm-hmm.
[both chuckling]
-Come on. -Come here, Nana.
[chuckling warmly]
They're so good.
So good.
[chuckling]
All right, up.
Good.
There we go.
Good.
I know it's a little itchy, but we're almost there.
There.
All right, rinse.
[water running]
Here's a hand towel.
[turns off tap]
All right.
Now for the grand finale.
[claps hands]
Let's do your aftershave, my man.
[winces]
It's all right, it's all right.
It'll cool down.
There you go.
You look like a million bucks,
and you smell good.
[chuckles warmly]
I'm proud of you.
All right.
[chuckles]
Looking sharp.
Marcus.
Marcus, hey.
Remember what we do when you meet people?
Look me in the eye.
Right here.
Good job.
I'm not sure about that tie.
I think it suits him.
Found 'em.
Bottom of his suitcase.
Oh, thanks, Mom.
Rick, I'm so glad you're here.
How's everything?
How's work?
Work? It's good.
Busy, but good.
Working on a new ad campaign.
And how's Amanda?
Uh, she's spending Christmas with her sister up in Albany.
Hmm.
Oh, look, it's almost 10:00.
Hey, Marcus,
ready to knock their socks off?
Good luck, baby.
We're meeting Madelyn Quin, the program director.
She's very nice.
You've spoken to her already?
Just once, briefly.
Oh.
[dog panting]
-It's okay. -It's all right, buddy.
It's all right.
It's very nice to meet you, Marcus.
I'm Madelyn.
Thanks again for making time for us.
Sorry about check-in.
The day just got away from us.
I understand.
Things are always a little unpredictable
around the holidays.
Shall we start the tour?
Sounds good.
Right this way.
[♪♪♪]
[starts playing "It Came Upon A Midnight Clear"]
[♪♪♪]
[door shuts]
[stops abruptly]
Sorry.
Don't stop on my account.
I'm Henry.
Maya.
[firewood clattering]
You work here?
Since I was 10, yeah.
My mom runs the place.
How long you been playing piano for?
Two years.
My mom said
everybody in the family's got to have their own thing.
I chose the piano.
My brother, Marcus, has drawing
and space travel.
Dad likes photography.
What's your Mom's thing?
Marcus.
I've been home-schooling Marcus for over 16 years.
He's a really great reader.
We haven't quite got the verbalizing part down yet,
but he invented his own sign language.
It's called Marcush. [chuckles]
We have built a database of thousands of objects
that he can access
faster that I can say "I want a gingerbread cookie."
[gasps]
I love gingerbread, too.
Here at Hope Hills,
we make gingerbread houses this time of year.
Would you like to see?
You can scroll through if you like.
That's a gingerbread forest.
[chuckling]
This is our art classroom.
They're painting the backdrop for our Christmas play.
[teacher] Wonderful.
Maybe we make the bow a little bigger,
and add on some more colour.
How about some orange?
Yeah, okay.
"Twas The Night Before Christmas."
How'd you know?
Well, there's no fire in the fireplace
so Santa can get down the chimney.
Marcus has always loved that story.
Hey, buddy.
Wow!
Look at all these colors.
Seems like Marcus is ready to start.
[hum of busy crowd]
So, what do you think?
Hmm, it clashes with your outfit.
[laughs] Not for me,
for our wishing wreaths.
We're making wreaths?
We make them every year.
But we're away from home.
The great thing about traditions
is you can bring them wherever you go.
I know Christmas is different this year,
but we can still make it ours.
What do you say?
I like the red one.
Excellent choice.
[crowd cheering excitedly]
[all clapping]
Eye on the prize, come on, you've got this.
This is the dorm where Marcus will be staying
while he's with us.
Oh, Marcus already has a room at the guest center.
During Marcus's assessment period,
we require that he stay on site.
Well, will we be able to visit him?
There's no contact with family over the trial weekend.
You mean, we're supposed to leave Marcus here
for the whole weekend?
We find that this is a necessary step
in the evaluation process.
We need to be sure
that Hope Hills is a good fit for Marcus.
Our students' well-being
is our main priority.
-Can you give us a moment? -Mm-hmm.
I did not agree to this.
I know,
but it's just down the road.
It's in walking distance.
It's Christmas, Rick.
And this could be the best gift
we ever give Marcus.
You ambushed me.
No, no, no,
I did not know anything
about this parent-free assessment time.
I was just as surprised.
But you've got to admit,
this place is pretty impressive.
All these students,
they have to help in growing, and harvesting,
and preparing their own food.
Madelyn told me that they're preparing
a whole Christmas dinner.
Ham, sweet potatoes, collard greens.
Our son will starve there.
Tell me, Rick, when's the last time
Marcus willingly ate a vegetable?
What's the harm in trying?
You don't have to deal with the meltdowns
over dinner time.
Why are you so dead set against this?
You never consider my feelings.
You're not the only one that gets a vote here, Lena.
Marcus is my son, too.
I'm the one who's there.
Every day.
Look, that is so unfair.
I work very hard to give Marcus everything he needs.
You have this pie in the sky vision of who our son is,
and what he can do,
and I'm left to be the bad guy.
Lena, you are not the bad guy.
This is a chance for Marcus to grow in ways
that we can't even imagine.
Ways that we can't give him.
Are you saying that I'm holding him back?
No, no.
No, I'm saying that right now his world is...
it's very small,
and all I'm asking
is that you give it a chance to grow.
One chance.
Yeah.
Can you gather up his bedtime items, please?
Yeah.
[♪♪♪]
I dropped off Marcus's suitcase with Madelyn.
So, what do we do now?
Are you hungry?
Yeah, let's get something to eat.
[starts car]
So, when do you have to get back?
I don't.
I'm here for the week.
You got a whole week off from work?
You're acting as if I never take a vacation day.
I'm working remotely.
[sighs]
He really misses you when you're not around.
You know that if it were up to me,
I would always be around, Lena.
But isn't it?
Isn't that up to you?
Hi, folks.
I'm Kayla.
Can I start you off with some apple cider?
It's our holiday special.
Yeah, sure.
Thanks, Kayla.
Kayla, if you have it,
she loves whipped cream and cinnamon in her cider.
Thanks.
Sure.
You remembered.
I remember a lot of things.
["O Come, All Ye Faithful" playing]
Like this is your favorite song.
That's your favorite song.
[humming along to "O Come, All Ye Faithful"]
Come on, you know you want some of this.
[singing together] ♪ For the of king of angels ♪
♪ Oh, come let us adore him... ♪
All right...
here we are.
Thank you.
Wow.
This looks so good.
Mm, delicious.
Thank you so much.
Are you ready to order?
Yeah, I'll have a cup of tomato soup,
and a side order of bacon, well done,
two slices of toast with the crusts cut off,
and a sugar cookie.
I'll have a burger, medium.
Thanks.
[♪♪♪]
♪ Oh, come let us adore Him Oh, come let us... ♪
This is amazing.
I'm glad you like it.
♪ ...Him, Christ the Lord... ♪
[cell phone rings]
Rick Wilson.
Yeah? Can it wait?
Okay.
No.
I understand.
Can you give me five minutes?
Duty calls.
Yeah.
Well, you go ahead.
I'm going to walk around, do a little exploring.
You sure?
Mm-hmm.
All right.
[horses whinnying]
[horse snorts]
[dog barking]
Hey, hey, shh, shh!
[barking]
Shh! Shh!
Ms. Wilson?
Is there something wrong?
[sighs]
No, no, not wrong.
It's just that everything happened so quickly,
and I just wanted to make sure that Marcus had his lunch.
Marcus is at lunch right now.
Our chef's an amazing cook.
Well, do you think you could maybe give this to him?
He's a little particular about what he eats.
I know it's hard being separated,
but coming on campus during assessment period
is not allowed.
How about I set up a Zoom call for you and Marcus?
Saturday morning. 9:00 a.m.?
9:00 a.m..
Enjoy your day, Ms. Wilson.
See you Saturday...
on Zoom.
Thanks a lot.
[dog whines]
[animals bleat]
[Rick] Need a lift?
I thought you went back to the guest house?
I figured I'd wait for you
to drop that sandwich off at Hope Hills.
You knew?
We were married 15 years.
You're an open book.
Hop in.
What makes you think I'm not enjoying my stroll?
Well, are you?
Well, only because I didn't wear my walking shoes.
Are these orchids?
Yes.
My mother planted them a few years ago.
She thought they'd be a nice way
to greet the guests.
They can be very temperamental.
She must have a green thumb.
She did.
Can I help you with anything?
I was hoping you might have some pruning shears.
I should.
My granddaughter and I are making wreaths.
Oh, how lovely.
Would you like to join us?
No, no, I wouldn't want to impose.
The more the merrier.
Okay.
[chuckling warmly]
Now, Marcus, you don't have to act in the play
if you'd rather watch,
but Blitzen went home for the holidays,
so if you want the job,
the job is yours.
Yes!
Okay, you sit tight,
and I'll introduce you to the gang
in a second, okay?
You're gonna be great.
[Maya] Do you think Marcus would like the red ribbon
or the silver one?
You're giving yours to Marcus?
Mm-hmm.
So these are actually wishing wreaths.
When I gift a wreath,
I like to send a wish with it.
I find something unique to the recipient
to finish it off.
Something special.
Like what?
It can be anything.
The magic of a wishing wreath
is if your intention is clear,
the inspiration will come to you.
What makes a gift precious isn't the gift itself
but the meaning behind it.
Do you have any Christmas traditions?
My mother and I would make pomanders.
What's a pomander?
It's a decoration made with oranges and cloves,
and it fills the whole room
with the most wonderful fragrance.
-Mm... -Well, I'd love to learn,
if you don't mind indulging a pomander novice?
Of course.
I'll pick up some oranges at the market.
Nana... help?
[chuckling] Oh, baby...
[typing]
[Lena] You guys ready?
-[Maya] Hey, Mom? -[Lena] Yeah?
[Maya] When we get there, can we pick up some pizza?
[Robin] We ain't starved you yet.
[Lena] You are a hungry child.
[laughing warmly]
Let's try something new.
Let's be adventurous. Let's try something new.
Hey...
Where are you all off to?
Dad...
we're going to the Christmas Market.
Do you want to come?
Uh, you all go on.
I got a lot of work to finish up.
It'll wait till morning.
Please, Dad?
There's gonna be funnel cake.
Funnel cake?
How can I say no to funnel cake?
[laughing]
All right, let's go.
Whew!
[♪♪♪]
Would you like some?
Oh, no, that's okay, thanks.
You sure?
Well, I mean, maybe just a little.
We should take a picture.
[shutter clicks]
It's a good idea.
[♪♪♪]
[shutter clicking]
[♪♪♪]
[laughing]
These came out great.
They did.
Oh, my favorite is the last one.
I did wear that Santa hat.
[chuckling]
I wore that Santa hat.
Looks great.
So, was Amanda okay
with you guys spending Christmas apart?
Amanda and I, we're not seeing each other anymore.
Oh.
I'm sorry.
No, no, no, don't be.
Um...
there were no hard feelings.
We both agreed that it would be best
if we went our separate ways before things got too serious.
Oh.
You guys were together over two years.
I thought they were.
[Maya] Dad!
Come try this.
[Robin] I see it.
[Beth] That's a red-breasted nuthatch.
It's a pretty one.
Sometimes, he hangs upside down.
Nuthatch yoga?
[laughs]
Teenagers.
Hunched over her cell phone.
She's scrolling.
She's retreated to the safety of her known world.
Is she all right?
I think it's just a little hard
being away from home at Christmas.
She's having trouble getting into the spirit.
Hmm.
Henry...
Would you go to the tree farm
and get a Christmas tree for us?
Mom, we don't have to have a tree this year.
I'd like to have one.
For our guests.
All right.
One Douglas Fir, coming right up.
[chuckles]
[tossing keys]
Oh, and, um, Henry,
why don't you take Maya?
-Merry Christmas. -Merry Christmas.
So you have a sister?
At Hope Hills Academy?
Her name is Morgan.
Does she like it?
She likes everything.
[chuckles]
She's like if sunshine was a person.
[laughing]
So what kind of tree are you looking for?
The perfect one.
[chuckles] Of course.
To be honest,
I didn't think we were going to put up a tree this year.
Why not?
My grandma passed away this May.
It's my mom's first Christmas without her.
Christmas was always her favorite time of year.
She'd make it really special,
so my mom wasn't really feeling up to celebrating
without her.
What changed?
I don't know,
but we're going to find her the best tree of the bunch.
Hey, hey!
-Hey! -Hi, Henry!
What are you guys doing here?
Well, my grandma asked me to get her a tree.
Oh, this is Maya.
-Maya, this is Emma and Misho. -Hey!
Maya's staying at the guest house.
Are you coming to the tree lighting?
I'm the Master of Ceremonies.
I didn't realize
there was a Master of Ceremonies.
There isn't.
Mr. Walters just told him
he gets to throw the switch this year.
It's the most important part.
It deserves a title.
Well, congrats, Man.
Nice to see it hasn't gone to your head.
[laughing]
Oh, hey, you've gotta come.
It starts at 10:00 in the square, after the dance.
Uh, yeah,
maybe.
I'll check with my parents.
Cool.
Come on.
-See you guys. -See ya.
See ya.
You should.
Hey, what about this one?
-Yeah, that looks great. -Yeah.
Is it straight?
A little to the left.
Oh, it's beautiful!
We're back,
and I have just the thing for that tree.
Someone order candy canes?
Mm-hmm.
Let's decorate, let's decorate, come on!
[clapping eagerly]
[♪♪♪]
[Robin] Edible ornaments?
Yeah, you make them out of birdseed,
so when Christmas is over, you can hang them outside,
for the birds to enjoy.
They're Morgan's favorite.
We made them for years.
I'll have to try that.
Last one.
Now for the scary part.
[laughs]
One little bulb refuses to play along,
and it's a bust.
I guess we should have checked them out first
before we put them on the tree.
Yeah, that would have been a plan. [laughs]
All right, come on, let's light 'er up.
Let's see what we got.
Moment of truth.
[patting a drum roll]
Three...
two...
one!
Yeah!
[all cheering]
-Merry Christmas! -It's great.
Nice. Really nice.
Now all we need are some candy canes.
[♪♪♪]
You chose a beautiful tree.
[chuckles warmly]
I found it in the attic.
Your Nana's star.
I thought you'd like to put it on the tree.
Look how carefully she wrapped it.
[chuckling fondly]
You know, this was passed down
from her great grandmother,
to her mother, to...
To you.
It's okay to miss her.
I do, too.
It was a lovely thought, sweetheart.
Maybe next year.
Okay.
[soft knock on door]
You all right?
Before we left,
I promised him I would not leave his side,
the whole trip.
I can't even imagine
what must be going through his head right now.
It was time, Lena.
He's a young man.
He needs independence.
You don't see what I see.
Every day,
the looks.
[sighs]
The whisperings behind our backs.
How am I supposed to send him out into that?
I'm just supposed to stand back
and watch the world to break his heart?
I know it can be hard,
putting your faith into people,
when...
whey they let you down.
But if you give them a chance to surprise you,
they just might.
Think about it, okay?
[♪♪♪]
I think I'm getting the hang of it.
[chuckles warmly]
I know what you're doing,
and it's very kind of you,
but you're here with your family.
Don't you want to spend time with them?
At Christmas time,
everyone's family.
-Marcus, you're in a play? -How about that.
Marcus is our Blitzen.
Will we get to see it?
All families are invited to the show
-on Christmas Eve. -[laughing in delight]
[pats desk]
Sweetheart, are you okay?
[barks]
[laughing]
Looks like you're making friends, buddy!
Pretty dog.
I'm afraid we have to go.
It's almost time for his next class.
Oh, okay, um...
Well, we miss you, Marcus!
-Bye! -Bye, buddy.
Can't wait to see you.
Bye, dog!
That's Lucy, Dad.
[barks]
[Rick sighs]
He's in a play.
Can you believe it?
Well, he's got his leading man good looks from me.
[chuckles]
He looked happy, though.
Didn't he?
Are these the pomanders?
Yes!
Would you like to make one?
If you don't have any plans,
I was hoping you could join us for a family dinner tonight?
Morgan will be here.
Oh, well, we wouldn't want to intrude.
Oh, no, no, it's no intrusion at all.
We'd love for you to meet Morgan,
and she can tell you more about Hope Hills.
They let the students meet with the parents
any time?
Morgan comes over once a week
unless she has something special going on.
I think it's wonderful
that the family gets to be together on the weekends.
The Guest House was just in the planning stages
when Morgan started at Hope Hills.
Mom and I jumped at the chance to run it.
It was the perfect solution
to giving Morgan the experiences she needs
while keeping the family close.
They just seem a little strict
not letting us see Marcus over the weekend.
They do that with everybody.
It's just the staff's way
of making sure the candidate is a good fit for the community.
Well, we'd love to join you.
Good,
'cause I already said yes for all of us.
[chuckling]
[♪♪♪]
Check this out,
we got a Christmas dance going on tomorrow night.
-Merry Christmas. -Merry Christmas.
So, what do you say?
You want to go to a dance?
It might be fun.
Step right up!
Test your skill.
Come on, man, what do you say?
Three rings to win a prize.
What do I say?
I say let's toss 'em.
Right on.
Here you go.
Thank you.
I get three?
Yes, sir, three.
That's all I need.
Okay.
We'll see about that.
[chuckles]
All right.
-Oh! -Okay.
Whoa-ho-ho!
Okay.
All right, let's see what we got.
Let's see what we got...
[laughing in triumph]
All right.
You are serious, huh?
About Christmas ring toss?
Yeah.
[laughs]
[cheering] Wow!
Awesome!
Congratulations, guys.
Pick your prize.
I'll take this guy.
Yeah, of course.
Thanks.
Thank you.
Oh, Mom, feel how soft.
Okay, so... I need...
six medium and two large.
Oh, Rick! I can't forget Rick.
Um, make it three large.
Thanks.
There you go.
-Thank you. -Thanks.
You and Rick seem to be
getting along together quite well.
Oh, it's been nice having him around.
It's not like that.
I didn't say anything.
But you were thinking it.
[chuckling]
Aw, it's just seeing you two together,
it feels like old times.
Rick is not seeing Amanda anymore.
How do you feel about that?
I don't know.
I mean, we got divorced
because we couldn't figure out how to work things out.
We were always fighting.
What's changed?
It's been five years.
Maybe the both of you
have learned a little something by now.
It doesn't matter.
I don't have time to consider "what if"s.
Too much stuff to do.
You do so much for others, Lena.
It's okay to take a little happiness for yourself
every once in a while.
For you.
Thank you very much.
Morgan, Mr. Wilson is a photographer.
Oh, it's just a hobby, really.
Morgan is a very talented photographer herself.
Oh, is that right?
Well, I'd love to see your work sometime.
I'd be happy to show you.
Great.
Everybody have cider?
[all] Yes.
What shall we toast to?
To Christmas.
To family.
And faith.
In yourself, and in the people around you.
It can be... very easy to lose sometimes,
and I'm just very grateful
to have people in my life who remind me.
Hear, hear.
-Cheers. -Cheers.
Cheers.
-Cheers, Mom. -Cheers.
Morgan, our son, Marcus,
is at Hope Hills Academy this weekend.
Here's a picture of him.
Have you seen Marcus, honey?
Yeah. He's my best friend.
Sweetie, he just got there two days ago.
I know.
Uh, Morgan, we're all really excited
for your play on Sunday.
Who are you in the play?
I'm the star.
[chuckling]
Of course you are.
Oh, it's going to be a busy house
with everyone arriving for the play and festivities.
You'll meet lots more Hope Hills families.
[♪♪♪]
Movie. Movie. Movie.
All right.
A tree. Christmas tree!
Ornaments. Um...
-Something... um... -Okay.
Smile. Smiley guy.
Eggnog.
-Um... big... big... -Christmas...
Uh, man!
Guy!
Turkey?
No, it's definitely a man.
Santa hat.
Smile...
Grinch! Grinch!
The Grinch!
How the Grinch Stole Christmas!
-Yes? -Yes!
-Oh! -Yes! Yes! Yes!
-Yes! -Oh!
That's a good Grinch. That's a good Grinch.
That was so good.
-That was the Grinch. -Impressive.
Okay, we're all tied up. We're all tied up!
Dad, you're up.
Oh, okay.
If we get this, we win.
No pressure.
"No pressure," she says. "No pressure," she says.
Ho, ho, ho, yeah.
[chuckling]
Okay.
Morgan, whenever you're ready,
start the clock.
[beeping] You're on the clock.
Uh, bells.
A song, a song, a song.
A triangle... hat...
Um, tree... "O Christmas Tree"?
Heart? A heart!
"My Heart Will Go On"!
That's not a Christmas song.
"Here Comes Santa Claus"!
Uh, I think you're getting farther away.
Oh.
-Number, uh... -Four.
Four. Four? Four!
20 seconds.
A bear.
A car?
Uh, a sheep!
Uh, Christmas sheep! Okay.
10 seconds.
Lamb, goat...
A ewe!
"All I Want for Christmas is You"!
-Yes! -[laughter]
-How'd she get that! -Yes!
Whoo! Whoa!
What?
Yes!
All right, well,
it's time for Christmas socks.
-There you go! -Thank you!
Yes, here you go.
-Oh, that's so sweet. -Socks for you...
-Thank you. -Socks for you...
-Oh, thank you!
Here you go, Mama. It's okay.
You did a great job.
[laughing]
You know that didn't look like no ewe.
[laughter]
So soft!
Feel that, Morgan.
Hey, mom?
Can I go meet with Misho and Emma
at the Christmas market?
Misho's running the booth until 10:00.
Of course. I'll leave the light on.
Do you want to go?
I... I don't...
Oh, well, yeah, of course, you... you should go, honey.
Have fun.
Okay.
Morgan's favorite thing
was taking pictures of her shoes.
She's been photographing them since she was five.
Every pair of shoes has a story.
Are those bunny slippers?
Yes.
Morgan named them.
Bunny and Rabbit.
That is funny.
Oh, here's her first pair of clogs.
Oh, wow.
They're very bright.
Yes, and they went with nothing,
but she loved them.
Wow, this... this is fantastic.
Can I get a copy of these?
Of course.
I'll save them on a flash drive.
Great.
-Wow. -Look at those.
[glass bottles rattling]
Come on, Emma.
A little to the left.
Any farther left,
and I'll hit the inflatable Santa, so...
Okay.
You're really good with her.
Morgan.
Well, she's amazing.
Thanks.
Thank you.
Do you ever feel...
lonely?
Like no one else really understands
what it's like to be...
Be what?
Second.
Is that how you feel?
I'm used to it.
I love my brother.
I know that he has to be the priority.
But it's hard.
Yeah.
Have you ever told anyone you feel like that?
Your parents?
Are you kidding?
I feel guilty for even thinking it.
They have more to worry about.
The most important thing is that Marcus...
is happy.
Would he be happy knowing that you're not?
Hey, come on, Maya!
It's your turn!
Here, I can hold that for you.
Hope you can do better than me.
-I'll try. -Yeah, it won't be hard.
[laughing]
We'll see.
[laughing]
Okay, first try!
What?
How?
Good job. That was awesome.
Wow, these are nice.
I thought you'd like them.
Are they cashmere or wool?
Guess you gotta get that, huh?
Nope.
It can wait.
Well, look where you two you ended up.
Hmm?
Mistletoe.
It is tradition.
[kissing]
Well, I'd... I'd better go to sleep.
Good night. I'll see you tomorrow.
Good night.
I think my ornament's lopsided.
[laughing]
The birds don't mind.
I had fun last night.
Thanks for inviting me.
Anytime.
Hey. Come on.
What are we doing?
[laughing]
What've you got there?
Just what I was looking for.
I was upset.
That we had to come here for Christmas.
I worked really hard to be selected for that recital,
and it hurt that it wasn't even a consideration.
-Maya... -Please, Mom.
Just let me say this.
I know we all have to sacrifice for Marcus.
I'm okay with that.
I love him.
I really do...
...but... but sometimes, I feel like an afterthought.
[sighing]
How long have you been feeling like this?
A while.
I'm so sorry, Maya.
I just... I never want you to feel
like you don't have a voice in this family,
because you do.
But how can I ask for your attention
when Marcus needs it more?
Oh...
sweetie...
listen to me.
I will always have time for you,
and I probably don't say this to you enough,
but I'm so proud of you.
I'm so very proud of you.
And I love you so much.
Oh...
Hey.
-Hey. -Where have you been?
I had to run a quick errand.
I, uh, hope you two lovely ladies
are ready for a Christmas dance.
It's really pretty.
Wow, that's a lovely necklace.
Oh, thank you. It was a gift from my husband.
He had good taste.
He married me, didn't he?
You look beautiful, by the way.
You clean up pretty nice yourself.
[band playing "Jingle Bells"]
She isn't seeing anyone...
if you were curious.
Oh?
This hasn't been an easy few years for Lena.
She's had the weight of the world on her shoulders.
She likes it that way.
No... she doesn't.
[band begins playing "O Christmas Tree"]
Well, aren't you gonna ask her to dance?
[sighing]
Say "Jingle Bells!"
Jingle bells!
[taking photo]
Would you like to dance?
Go, Mom.
If you promise not to step on my toes.
I can do that.
I owe you an apology.
For what?
For all the times
when I haven't made this trip very easy.
I know you only want the best for Marcus.
I do.
And you do, too.
You were right. I haven't always been around,
but I did what I knew how to do, Lena,
and that's make sure
that you and Marcus and Maya would always have security.
We both sacrificed.
And I'd do it again.
You know, I think...
I think it's time
we stopped holding the past against each other.
It's strange to think of you as my past.
When I thought about my future, you were always in it.
I think it's great she made a new friend.
Yeah.
Does she have to sit so close to him?
[chuckling]
Easy there, papa bear.
You know what all this reminds me of?
Our first Christmas together.
[laughing]
Picking you up for the Merritsville Snow Ball.
I was so nervous that night.
You were?
But when you opened that door and you smiled at me...
all the nerves just... just disappeared.
You had a red bow in your hair,
and your perfume smelled like lilacs.
You remember all that?
Why wouldn't I?
Some of the happiest moments of my life.
But I know we had some...
hard times between us, but...
I never stopped loving you, Lena.
[song ends, applause]
[♪♪♪]
[phone ringing]
There he goes again.
This is the worst possible time.
You'll be home by Christmas Eve.
I need to be here now, with the family,
while I work things out for Marcus.
I thought the ex-wife takes care of that.
Can you catch the 8:00 a.m.?
I'll have to leave here at 4:00.
Carol can book it.
[sighing]
I never asked where you lived.
Burketsville.
That's not far from here.
Hmm...
Henry!
It's time!
Let's go.
Maya, do you want to do the honors?
Yeah, sure.
-Everything okay? -Yeah.
Hey, can I get everyone's attention, please?
It's time. You ready?
Five...
four...
three...
two...
one!
[cheering]
There we go.
We need to talk.
They want me in Chicago by noon tomorrow.
[sighing]
Come on, Rick.
Look, I-I know.
I'm sorry.
I did everything I could think of
to get out of it.
Did you?
I'll be back for Christmas Eve.
Look, I'm really sorry.
I'd stay if I could.
You gotta believe me.
The problem is I was starting to.
It's beautiful.
I'm glad you think so.
It's for you.
Me?
I know how hard it can be...
that first Christmas you lose someone you love dearly.
We ran this place together for years.
I'm just so used to seeing her every day.
Those we love never really leave us,
as long as we keep them right here.
Thank you.
What's your ETA?
My flight lands in an hour.
I'll call you as soon as I land.
Can you send the file?
[man laughing]
Rick? Are you still there?
I'm here.
It should be in your inbox.
Great.
See you when you get here.
We'll send a car.
[airplane flying overhead]
You know, I don't know
why I thought it would be any different...
that for once, we would be on the same page.
A team.
You can't get upset at yourself
for putting your faith in someone you love.
I think it's time to go home.
Don't.
Don't make this decision based on Rick.
It's not about him.
This whole thing was his idea, Mom.
If he can't even see it through,
why should I?
[phone ringing]
Hello?
Where is he? Okay, I'll be right there.
Sweetheart, what's the matter?
It's Marcus.
Ms. Wilson!
Is Marcus okay?
Your son is fine.
It's just a scrape.
It's protocol to call parents
even if a band-aid can cover the situation.
I didn't mean to worry you.
This way.
You know, Marcus loved the water.
I taught him how to swim almost as soon as he could walk.
One day, when Marcus was seven,
Maya was four,
we went down to the neighborhood pool.
Maya put her bathing suit on backwards,
and I turned away to deal with that,
and while I wasn't looking,
a group of boys,
boys Marcus thought were his friends,
surrounded him and held his head underwater.
Maya started screaming.
She saw it all happening over my shoulder.
I...
I jumped in, I pulled him to the surface...
I got to him just in time.
And that day,
I swore I would never leave him out of my sight again...
not out of fear of what he would do to himself,
but for fear of what others would do to him.
We understand if you want to take Marcus home...
but you should know Marcus is doing beautifully.
He's kind, he's enthusiastic,
he... adapts quickly.
It's obvious you've raised a remarkable young man,
and the staff here
unanimously agrees to welcome Marcus to the program.
Marcus has a spot here,
if that's what you decide.
Oh...
First door on your right.
Marcus...
Oh.
Oh, my god.
What happened, sweetheart?
Well, we were rehearsing for the play,
and he slipped and skinned his knee.
Are you okay?
Just a little accident.
Yeah? Let's get this...
[♪♪♪]
Well?
How does it look?
It's perfect.
What are you doing here?
I got the same call as you.
What happened to Chicago?
I told Chicago they were going to have
to get along without me.
I was needed somewhere else.
[sighing]
That could have been a disaster.
But... it wasn't.
But what if he hit his head,
or got confused,
or he was scared in this new place...
Lena, none of that happened.
I gave them a chance.
It's too much, Rick.
Lena, why are you so determined to see this fail?
I'm trying to protect him.
I'm his mother.
I'm not going to see him get hurt.
I'm sorry, but once Christmas is over,
I'm taking him home.
[car engine starting]
Lena, I don't want to keep having the same fight.
Making the same mistakes.
Do you?
So what do we do?
Put on our Sunday best,
and go watch our son in a play.
I hear he steals the show.
[chuckling]
I only want what's best for him.
It's all I've ever wanted.
You are a wonderful, devoted mother.
For 18 years, you worked miracles.
Marcus's progress is your victory, Lena.
You've done it.
Now let me help.
And you're not alone.
Uh, Beth!
Just the person we've been looking for.
Morgan's photos,
they are way too special
to be living on some flash drive.
They deserve to be seen.
[gasping]
A star for a star.
Oh!
That's amazing.
Morgan's going to be over the moon.
Thank you!
Aw, Merry Christmas.
Merry Christmas.
[chuckling]
Hey, there's Bunny and Rabbit!
[laughter]
They made it.
They made it in!
That's beautiful!
Thank you.
Hope she likes it.
Oh, she's going to love it.
Great.
She better like it.
Josiah, Justine.
This is Rick and Lena,
and they're here for the weekend.
Josiah, nice to meet you.
Ava, I'd like to introduce you to Maya.
Maya's brother is in the play.
Oh, really? Mine is, too. Brian's my twin.
The first thing he'll do tonight
is open my locket to check if we're still there.
So sweet.
I'm sure Henry told you,
but the Hope Hills siblings are pretty close.
I'm afraid you're stuck with us now.
That doesn't sound so bad.
I'll add you to the group chat.
Thank you.
Welcome.
[quiet conversations]
Look.
They even got Marcus on the cast list.
-Is that right? -Yeah.
Sure are a lot of people.
Yeah, glad we got tickets.
I'm not sure how Marcus is going to do
with all these eyes on him.
Oh, I think he just might surprise you.
I'll be right back.
Where are you going?
I just need to see.
I gotta be sure.
Save me a seat?
All right.
[♪♪♪]
Big ears.
Guys, antlers...
Everybody, just calm down and get ready.
Here we go.
Hey.
Everything's going to be okay.
Okay?
I'm gonna be up there, too.
You're gonna do fine. It's gonna be fun.
[laughing]
You're gonna do great.
Where's Mom?
She's going to miss the opening.
Aw, she'll be here.
You made it.
Our little guy ready to go?
Everything alright?
Yes.
Yes, it is.
'Twas the night before Christmas,
and all through the house,
not a creature was stirring,
not even a mouse.
The children were nestled all snug in their beds
as visions of sugar-plums danced in their heads.
Ma in her 'kerchief and Pa in his cap
had just settled down for a long winter's nap,
when out on the lawn, there arose such a clatter,
they sprang from their chairs to see what was the matter...
...when what to their wondering eyes did appear
but Santa's red sleigh and six flying reindeer!
Now, Dasher! Now, Dancer!
Now, Prancer and Vixen!
On, Comet! On, Cupid!
On, Donner and Blitzen!
[applause]
Whoo!
Hey!
Um, can I get your autograph?
You're fabulous.
I love you.
Oh, I'm so proud of you.
You were wonderful.
Did you have fun?
What would you think about...
sticking around here a little longer?
I could make space curtains for your room,
just like at home.
I love you to the moon and back.
Hey, way to go, Bud!
Oh! You were amazing.
You brought the house down, bro!
Yes, you did!
Just where did you learn all that stage presence from?
[clearing throat]
[laughing]
[everyone chatting quietly]
I made this for you.
So, the feather symbolizes that...
you'll fly high,
and be strong.
[chuckling]
You want me to live here, too.
Come here.
It's going to be hard for them to say goodbye to each other.
Yeah, well, maybe they don't have to.
Hope Hills, they, uh...
they need a director of marketing.
I talked to Madelyn.
If I took the job, I could see Marcus every day,
or as often as he'd want to see me.
So... you want to... you want to move here?
No. No, no.
I want... us to move here.
We could be here together, if you think it would work.
Look, um...
I have no idea what the future will bring, Lena...
but I definitely know I want you in it.
Whatcha see, Nana?
When did this happen?
Oh, they're looking at us.
Hey, Maya...
Why don't you play us a song?
Any requests?
Uh, how about "It Came Upon the Midnight Clear"?
[applause]
Hey, buddy.
[she begins to play]
♪ It came upon the midnight clear ♪
♪ To touch their harps of gold ♪
♪ Peace on the Earth ♪
♪ Good will to men ♪
♪ From heaven's all-gracious King ♪
♪ The world in solemn stillness lay ♪
♪ To hear the angels sing ♪
[song ends]
[applause]
♪ Christmastime is the very best time ♪
♪ To take my baby dancing ♪
♪ Sing along, now ♪
♪ Let the church bells ring ♪
♪ Ding-dong sing along do ♪
♪ Kissing by the mistletoe ♪
♪ Covered by the amber glow ♪
♪ Underneath the sugarplum sky ♪
♪ Sing along, now ♪
♪ Let the church bells ring ♪
♪ Ding-ding sing along do ♪
♪ We all need somebody to hold... ♪