♪ It's beginning to look a lot like Christmas ♪
♪ Everywhere you go
♪ Take a look at the 5 and 10 ♪
♪ Glistening once again
♪ to candy canes and silver lanes aglow ♪
♪ It's beginning to look A lot like Christmas ♪
Hi! Merry Christmas!
Hi! Good to see you!
♪ The prettiest sight to see ♪
♪ Is the holly that will be ♪
♪ On your own front door
Hi! Good morning!
Hi. Merry Christmas!
I thought you were Going to the city.
Oh, I am. I just Had to swing by and grab some...
Red velvet cupcakes.
Uh huh.
Your sister and Simon's favorite.
- Best in Utah. - You betcha.
Thank you, daddy.
You bet.
I have a couple more Christmas errands to run
and I'm off.
Okay. Here you go, Valerie.
Peppermint hot cocoa. Exactly 4 marshmallows.
You remember everyone's order.
But I ask you this,
what if I suddenly wanted 2 marshmallows?
Oh, I would advise against that.
No, 4, is the perfect number. I should know.
I've been managing this place since I was 16.
Since she was 6, if we're being honest.
Are you still going to France this year?
Oh, I'm sorry, was that a...
No, no, no. That's okay. Yes. I am going to France.
And never coming back.
Oh, daddy, stop it!
I... it'll be a little bit different this year.
I mean, Uncle Dave and I used to go every year
for the last decade,
so, it feels like a tradition at this point,
but I'm still working out the details.
Well, here's to nothing being the same without him.
Here's to that.
- Have a good day. - You too.
Thank you. -Bye bye.
I know mom's being brave.
How's she doing really?
We have had many conversations
about your uncle's theater.
She's still thinking of selling it?
We have talked it through so many times.
She thinks it's for the best.
Well, then, Swift family rules.
We're all here to support her.
Yeah.
Watch. Jin... gle bells.
Jin... gle Bells!
1, 2, 3.
1... 2... 3.
And then we have a flourish here!
Meg, focus.
We've already practiced it this way.
Right, Jen. But it needs an extra something.
And if you keep changing it, we'll never be ready.
You really know how to push your sister's buttons,
don't you?
I think our dance number needs something.
Is it jet packs? Christmas in space?
We'll put fishbowls on your heads,
and rig you up and fly you around.
Give it the old Uncle Dave joie de vivre!
Ooh! I sound like Maurice Chevalier.
Joie de vivre. Joie de vivre.
I'm gonna keep working on it.
I know I have a good idea but
it takes me a minute To figure it out.
When I opened this theater,
do you know what I was gonna call it?
The Hazelwood Show Palace.
I know, yikes, right?
And your mom said to name it something
that had a little more meaning.
So you called it The Madison?
After grandpa Madison.
The point is, your mom was right.
And I rely on her for things like that.
Thanks. Oh, so sorry. Go ahead.
I'm... wide load.
Can I just put this right here? Thanks. Ah.
Oh, this is cute. Ooh!
- Oh! Oh, oh! - Oh, my gosh.
Whoa!
Oh, wow.
I just saved you some real
embarrassment, and like uh, $50.
I kind of think I'd have managed to save it myself.
I'm known for my cat-like reflexes.
Hmm. Is that right?
I stand by the value of my assist.
What's in the case?
Snacks.
- It's a tuba. - Oh.
It's the basis of the brass. Strength of any good song.
You play Tuba? Professionally?
Oh, no, no. Not professionally.
- No. - Ah.
I played in high school. I do really enjoy it though.
But every year...
I come here and meet my nephew and my sister
at the Christmas brass concert, so this year...
I'm sorry. I gotta take this. Hello. Sorry.
No. Good.
Ah, yeah. No wait. When did that happen?
Right. No. I'll be right there.
Yeah. I'll come right now.
Cool.
Yeah, no. It was nice to meet you.
Nice to... that was good.
I'm actually gonna get some hats.
Oh! There she is.
I was the best tuba player In the Hazelwood marching band.
I dug this out of the attic, and I just thought...
How hard can it be?
Very hard. It turns out.
- Yeah. - Yeah.
But the looks on your faces, oh! So worth it.
Okay. I got us
some fun Christmas hats.
Wow!
These are something! Here.
Uh, no. You two are enough.
Put it on. Rules of the season.
Someone gives you a fun Christmas hat,
you gotta put it on your head.
Did they re-write the rules?
Because I swear last time I read it, there was nothing in there.
- Come on. - Put it on.
Both: Oh! You're so cute.
Look at our guy!
Meg: It's gonna be great. Jen: It'll be cute.
Oh, my gosh!
Okay. We changed decorations...
Okay.
This year, but I really need
your honest, first impressions, okay? Promise?
Yes. I'm scared.
Oh. It's beautiful!
You like it?
It's simple. Spare.
Well, I wasn't going for spare
necessarily, as much as a modern, classy,
understated.
- It's incredible. - Yeah?
Yeah, this is what dad always talks about.
Build a community
Both: And the people will gather! Yes!?
- Look. - Is that for me?
Got it for mom for Christmas. Come on.
- Ooh. - We have some work to do here.
What?
Let's wrap them up.
Oh! Oh, Simon.
You may not remember,
but Uncle Dave used to put out these little figurines
for each of the children at Christmas.
Except that two of them
are missing, so the actual presents...
- Oh, no! - are the new additions.
Okay.
- So, we have some shopping to do. - Yeah.
And arriving from the kitchen, a little nosh.
Meg Swift.
Always a pleasure.
And you, sir?
Okay, be honest about the hors d'oeuvres.
Oh, Joe. I don't think you've met my sister Meg.
Meg, this is Joe. Our new General Manager.
Well, new-ish.
Uh, we have met.
He likes tubas,
but he's a little clumsy.
Oh. So you're Jennifer's sister, huh?
Mm-hmm.
Cat-like reflexes here.
Tell me about those contests.
Great Salt, it's a
local magazine, every year, they pick 3 restaurants,
to do this whole competition.
They compete to throw the best Christmas party.
- Yeah. - I love it. Who chooses the winner?
The magazine. Everybody gets a ton of publicity,
and if you win, the magazine will donate $25,000
to the charity of your choice.
Whoa.
And for us, it's Big Mountain Food Bank.
I mean, it would mean lines out the door.
It takes us to a whole next level.
It'd be amazing.
- Wow. - Yeah.
I'm so excited.
And this is delicious. Is that Chervil?
You can taste the Chervil.
Oh, uh, professional herb taster.
Yeah, Jen didn't tell you?
Uh...
Kidding. It's a joke. I was joking.
I love it here.
I know.
I mean I love Hazelwood at Christmas.
- Yeah. - But Salt Lake City.
I know, it's amazing, right?
It feels so good.
Why don't you stick around for a few more days?
You know I'm offering you
the world's most unreliable, inflatable bed.
Flat by morning.
Both: Every time!
So, are you still going to France this year?
Yeah. Without Uncle Dave.
Oh... you two loved traveling together.
I loved hanging out with all of his friends in Paris.
I loved that he spoke terrible French.
Bone-joor.
Yeah, he'd be like, mare-si.
He was the best.
But, I just think I gotta go.
Yeah.
I think I might need to stay for awhile.
Be honest. You have a secret French boyfriend, don't you?
How dare you bring up Jean-Louis at a time like this.
Have you ever felt like you just needed the next thing?
- All the time. - Really?
So what is the next thing?
Uncle Dave used to say that big decisions take time,
and I think for me, distance.
Hmm.
Like today, I got in the car,
and I was driving here, it just
felt like anything was possible.
Yeah.
I mean, whatever's next for me,
I don't think it's in Hazelwood.
Well, when you're ready to figure it out, I'm here.
I know you are.
Look who I found.
Hey. What are you doing here?
Are you doing some last minute Christmas shopping?
Oh, I usually like to take a stroll through the Christmas market
before the dinner rush.
Yes. Magic. Well, take a walk with us.
Sure.
Actually, Simon and I have to go pick up
a secret Christmas present for somebody.
Are you pointing at me?
- What? No. - She's pointing at me.
- Goodbye! - Goodbye!
- See you later! - A Christmas surprise!
What are Christmas tapas?
Um, impossible to describe.
Okay.
It's a rotating menu.
So the only thing you know for sure
Is that it's going to be delicious.
Oh, I think I'm going to have
the rosemary potatoes,
and the green beans look really good too.
- Christmas dinner. - Both: Yes!
Hi there. What can I get for you?
So hard to decide.
Do you guys have a sampler platter?
Yes. Oh, hey.
You're back. You were... You were here yesterday.
Yes, I was.
And the day before.
Yes. Correct. Everything here is so good looking.
Wait, no, no.
What I meant is that everything here
looks so good, and I'll have the sampler platter.
Uh, two of those?
Yes, please. Thank you.
Great.
You are deeply smooth.
I'm obvious. It's my super power.
Okay. So today I have combined
the red potato rosemary coquettes,
and the turkey and gravy on a biscuit
and green beans with a dash of spice.
Thank you so much.
- Thank you. Tell your friends. - Mm-hmm.
And keep coming back.
I'll see you again tomorrow.
I am counting on that.
Thanks for being my wing woman.
Oh, I didn't do anything.
I just stood there and giggled.
Well, what could be more helpful?
Mm.
Meg: I mean, why don't you just stay longer?
- Really? - Yeah. Stay as long as you want.
I mean, I would love it.
I might have to borrow some clothes.
I love that you're even pretending to ask.
You're wearing one of my sweaters right now.
Shoot.
You know, I kind of feel like I should stay too
and help Joe and the staff plan the party.
But I don't want to disappoint mom and dad.
Well, Ulmer and Sprig feels like
a pretty well-oiled machine.
You deserve to enjoy it.
What are you...
- That's better. - Really?
Goes with the sweater.
Alright, so then, I'll help with the Madison,
and help with mom and dad,
and you just stay and take some space.
I'm glad you're here.
What's happening?
It's so cute.
- Is it? - It's your new look.
It's who you are now.
- Whoo! Alright, here. - Yeah?
Give these to mom
And have her open them one at a time.
Oh, that's a good idea. That's so sweet.
Also, go to the antique booth at the Christmas market
Ôcause they might have some more of those Christmas village pieces.
- Oh, I will. - Okay.
Simon, drive safely. I love you guys.
- Love you! - Love you, too.
Seatbelts.
Go, Simon! Whoo-hoo!
That's all that I have.
But I can get you something else.
That's a lot of mistletoe.
Hey. I thought you were going back to...
Yeah. Change of plans.
Gonna stick around for another couple of days. What is this?
Uh, just uh, buying some holly. For the party.
Holly has red berries. This is mistletoe.
So unless this the theme of your Christmas party is kissing,
which, by the way, sounds like a very fun party.
No, no, no.
People would love that.
Yeah, no, I honestly thought this was uh...
- Oh, no, honestly. - Holly.
Honest. Honest mistake. Happens with greenery.
Okay, um... Uh, pine garland.
I never really got the whole mistletoe thing.
When I was in high school,
I had a huge crush on this guy named Justin Leach.
Oh, I went to the Christmas party,
and I stood underneath the mistletoe for hours.
- Full size. Thank you. - Waiting.
He's married now. Not to me.
To this woman who's like, amazing.
- Got it. - You want me to carry that?
You got any more?
I can carry it. Here. I can carry it.
So, this party. Tell me the plan.
Well, I've been working really hard to get us nominated.
I put aside some money for a budget.
Obviously, the food is ready, uh the decorations, and...
Photo booth.
The photo booth?
You're not gonna have a photo booth?
I hadn't... considered uh...
Photo booths are kind of hokey.
No. Especially not a Christmas one.
Do you throw a lot of Christmas parties?
Sometimes. Yeah.
Well, or engagement parties. Bridal showers. I'm...
Sort of the town busybody?
- What? No. - I'm sorry. I'm just...
I've always thought of myself as cheerfully helpful.
Although I guess that's what you'd think
if you were the town busybody.
You know what?
The photo booth is a good idea.
- Right? - Yeah.
Victoria: Okay, team.
Cookies, frosting.
And Meg Smith.
Come here.
And the world's most delightful kid sister.
You know Victoria too.
Oh, yeah.
She and Jennifer used to come home from college,
and I'd follow them around like a puppy.
Turns out, she was cooler than both of us.
Alex: We started a tradition last year.
Free cookies with every order during the holiday season.
Automatic cookies. Who doesn't love that?
Thank you very much.
Draw and outward.
Huh?
It's so subtle.
♪ O Christmas Tree O Christmas Tree ♪
Meg: Oh, okay.
Alex: Make it Christmassy.
Your reindeer is wearing a sweater.
She's festive.
You know, we should consider a cookie decorating
station at the party.
- Yes! - Love that!
Hold up. We agreed to keep it simple.
This is a big opportunity for us and the food bank.
You need to come volunteer with us.
It's got a lot of heart, that place, but running on a shoestring.
I would love to, and you know another thing
we could do for the Christmas party...
You know, while I appreciate your enthusiasm,
Jennifer and I have a plan.
Food for a distinguished palate. Hmm?
Multiple courses, huh?
And string music.
Hmm. Very prim Victorian Christmas.
Listen, I love this place, but judging by the decor alone,
I feel like it could use a little life.
We agreed on a plan as a team.
We don't want to bite off more than we can chew.
Victoria: No, I'm with Meg on this one.
All in favor of adding more ideas?
Okay. Alright.
So what's going on with you?
Ah... the family's good.
Meg: Yeah.
My sister's having triplets in a few weeks.
Three times the joy.
And three times the cribs and toys.
Anyway, I also applied for a dream job
I'll never get. It's with Naidre Miller.
The Naidre Miller?
Yes. Yes.
It's in L.A. Closer to my family.
You know, even though it's feeling
like I'd be leaving your sister in a lurch,
she's been really supportive.
Yeah, that's Jen.
She always wants what's best for people.
Hey, I'll make myself useful. I got it.
- Thank you. - Where's it going?
- Table 10. - 10. Got it.
Kate. Where am I going?
Hello there, sir.
Well... wait. You're not Jennifer.
No. I am not. But I am wearing her sweater.
I'm her sister Meg.
Resemblance is... stunning.
Oh.
- I'm Frank. - Hi, Frank.
You must be a regular here.
It's good to have a neighborhood place.
They take care of me.
Plus they go heavy on the rosemary and the...
Chervil. Yes.
We grew up in a restaurant and my uncle
ran this movie theater, so it's really all about...
Joe: Meg?
People coming in... Can I...
Yeah. Yeah, yeah. Excuse me.
Hope to see you again, Meg.
You, too, Frank. You're a delight.
Nice guy.
Yeah. Lots of people eat alone.
It's fine to just...
Oh, no. I was just being friendly.
It worked out. He likes herbs, I like herbs.
Listen. I wanted you to know that I heard your ideas.
And I am very, very excited about those ideas.
But, in the interest of simplicity...
I was thinking simple too.
Juggling elves. Holiday karaoke.
Clowns bowling in Santa hats.
I'm joking. That was a joke.
You didn't laugh. Huh.
Look, if we take on too much and fail,
we won't get the prize money.
Or the publicity. You know?
I want Umber and Sprig to take the next step.
To grow.
Yes. And I do, too.
I know my sister does as well. I promise.
But it's more than that.
We have some time before dinner service.
Are you up for a field trip?
Here it is.
Wow.
So, I'd been volunteering here
for a long time, and then your sister and her
staff started showing up once a week,
and just one big, fun group.
Hmm.
I got to know them, and one thing led to another,
and uh, then I asked your sister
if she needed someone to run the place.
Out of the blue you just asked to run a restaurant?
Well, I have a resume.
It's kind of always been my thing, you know.
You know, bars, restaurants, you name it,
always make the best jobs.
And I knew working for your sister
Would let me carve out time to volunteer here.
Mm.
And there's just so much need right now.
So, we do what we can.
Joe! I wasn't expecting you.
The place looks great. And that sweater.
Oh, yes. I am like sleigh bells and sensible shoes. Listen
You have to be Jennifer's sister. I'm Maryanne.
Meg. Nice to meet you.
So, we were chosen
for that contest I was telling you about.
Oh, wow!
And if we win, it's $25,000
to the charity of our choice.
I know you have plans to build.
Ok, I'm sorry. I don't mean to cry.
I... any act of kindness, and here come the waterworks.
No, it's good. Let it out. Feel the feelings.
Well, wait. We haven't won yet.
I know, but it would mean so much.
See, right now,
we pre-pack boxes of food for people.
But we want it to be more like a grocery store.
Where people can come in and choose.
Oh, I'd love that.
There are these places that are popping up everywhere.
There's one in Santa Barbara.
One in Nashville.
They call it The Store, but I call it
already needs some adjustments, of course.
I figure we could put produce here,
and the refrigerator section here. I mean,
it's big enough, right?
Wow, this would be so amazing.
Well, hopefully the prize money will allow for that.
Well, with the $25,000 seed money,
I mean, we would qualify for a ton of grants,
and nonprofit matching funds.
It'd be a lot of work, but it'd be so worth it.
We will work so hard to make this happen for you.
Maryanne: Oh, thank you.
But if we get the word out to enough people,
if we get the right publicity.
Yeah, we can't get ahead of ourselves.
We're a small staff, Meg, with limited resources.
Well, but you have me.
For how long?
Hey, Joe. You got a minute?
Meg?
Does my name not come up when I call?
I hope I'm listed in your phone.
Very funny. Alright. How are things there?
- Honestly, it's amazing. - Yeah?
I love this city!
And Joe showed me the food bank,
and I'm really enjoying myself.
Oh, Maryanne's a real ball of fire, isn't she?
Oh, she's great! I love her.
And I want to help your staff throw a blow-out party.
So, I was thinking, what if I didn't
go back to Hazelwood?
I think that's really smart.
You don't think mom and dad are gonna be upset
If I stay here for a couple more days?
I think they'd be glad you're trying something new.
Oh, sister swap. I love this!
I do too. Alright, I'm gonna tell Joe
that you're helping out, okay?
Oh, no, no. Let me. I can handle it.
Okay, alright. Well, um...
I love you. Call me if anything comes up, okay?
I promise I will.
I love you, too.
Bye.
Also, I'm never giving back this coat.
I've just never seen you take a night off before.
Everything okay?
Yeah. I... I have a date.
- But if you need me... - No, no, no.
No! I'm happy for you. Take a chance, man.
Thank you.
Good luck.
Alex: Thank you.
- Hey there. - Hey.
Is that the RSVP list for the party?
Uh, yeah, slow going so far,
But uh, we'll catch up.
We should get a mailing list and send out an email blast.
Also, bear with me,
What if, in terms of the decorations,
what if we go big?
I'm sorry, am I missing something here?
Do you work here now?
Oh, uh, sort of.
I had a little chat with Jennifer,
And I'm gonna be helping out
with the planning of the party.
Well, uh...
I don't want to end up with 20-feet of mistletoe, so...
why don't we meet in the morning? Go shopping.
- Perfect! - Perfect!
Ow.
- Hey. - Hi.
- You wanted to meet me here? - Yes. Come on in.
Alright.
Oh... wow!
Oh, my sister told me about this installation
but I didn't know it would be so beautiful.
Yeah. People come from all over every year to see this.
I think we should get an artist
to do an installation for the party.
Yeah, Meg, I...
No, come on.
You said people come from all over the place.
They'll flock to our party.
Throw in a couple of activities. Come on.
Yeah, but after yesterday, I'm a little worried
about what you mean by activities?
A good Christmas party needs things to do.
- Take weddings. For example. - Mm-hmm.
They're fun because you get to watch the groom dance
with his mom.
Someone throws something you can catch.
Cake in the face!
Yeah, but for a Christmas party...
It's the same thing.
A party where you stand around all day in your formal clothes,
that's a party you leave.
That's a middle school dance.
Did you go to a middle school dance?
Were you not fun?
I was fun.
But my family kept Christmas simple.
You know, my parents liked to travel a lot,
And I... I honestly liked to volunteer over the holidays.
Oh, yeah. My sister told me about the holiday traditions
of the wait staff.
And no matter what, I always make sure
that it was for everybody.
Because we have to build
the community that we want, right?
That's what our party should be about.
It should be about community.
You know, a big celebration, you know.
- Get 'em dancing. - Get 'em dancing, huh?
- Oh. - Yes.
Oh, dancing, huh?
Whoo!
Yeah, well, we don't have much time before the lunch rush,
And this is a little more
elaborate than the holly wreaths that I was thinking.
I'll get a quote for the poinsettias.
That guy looks like he might know.
Yeah, wait, but uh...
Hey, Frank. You have a good lunch today?
As it always is. A good routine is the key
to a healthy life. And...
sometimes you get free cookies.
Do you have any holiday travel coming up?
Um... no. Not so much anymore.
I have a daughter, but we celebrate separately.
Oh.
Alex, how'd the date go?
Yes, I was curious about this as well.
Was it stressful trying to figure out what to wear?
- I always find that part stressful. - Where'd you go?
- It was fun. And he's great. - Oh.
And I invited him to our volunteer shift tomorrow.
So I'm gonna need you to play it cool, Mom and Dad.
Frank: Y'all volunteer?
Together? Where?
The Big Mountain Food Bank.
We take a shift once a week.
You should come and join us sometime, Frank.
- I'd love to. - Great.
Tomorrow morning. 8AM.
And you, mister.
We have a date with some wreaths and trees.
Ah.
Joe: Hey, look at this beauty.
Okay. So in a fantasy world,
in addition to the poinsettias,
what if we have one really big tree,
like enormous, tall, and fat.
Where would the people stand?
Have you seen the RSVP list? We've got 18 people coming.
I think we'll be able to make room.
But we have one big tree that we can all decorate, right?
Not as a kid.
I always wanted an enormous tree,
but my parents wouldn't let me get one,
because they were afraid it would take up
too much space in the living room.
- Me too. - Really?
Yeah. But, I would always say
we can cut the bottom out
and we can make
a wreath.
Out of the scraps.
Both: Great minds.
So this is what small town
Christmas traditions are.
You and some ski patrol dude making wreaths together.
Well, I'm from a very small town,
so there's one ski patrol dude,
and he's older than my dad.
What about you?
You bring a lot of women
to the old wreath-making table?
Because getting your hands full of sap
and making something with questionable artistic taste
is a solid date.
Well, you can't beat the pine scented air.
Oh, uh... I gotta take this.
Yeah, sure. Go take that.
We're about done here.
We can hang these wreaths up at the restaurant.
It'll be beautiful.
We can put it up on the wall, and we can... okay.
Joe: Hello?
Hi. Psst. Excuse me.
Could you help me get like
a big centerpiece type tree, like a
double wide, but it's kind of a surprise.
No. No, it's no problem.
Okay. Thank you. Merry Christmas.
Sir, um, I'm looking for a tree
that's kind of uh, double wide.
- Like this one? - Yes.
Okay.
And uh... it's a, it's a surprise. So shh. Okay.
Hey, Meg!
Oh, hi, everybody. I miss you!
Are you decorating the tree?
We are! How are you?
Um...
Wait right there.
Then all of a sudden, it just hit me like a wave.
And as much as I wanted to be there
for their big night at the theater,
I suddenly didn't. I wanted to be here.
And you feel okay about it?
Well, like always, Jen listened.
Mm-hmm.
And she let me feel my feelings.
And then she had precisely the right thing to say.
Sisters are amazing.
Thank you guys once again
for volunteering tomorrow morning.
Hey, we wouldn't miss it.
Oh, uh, Meg.
I still need a photo for the email blast invitation.
Yes. I'm gonna get that for you tomorrow, I promise.
Wow. The party's in 7 days.
No.
They don't give us a lot of time
to plan this thing, do they?
Well, that's the fun part.
- Good night, guys. - Bye.
Good night.
Hey, I had fun playing Christmas elf with you today.
Maybe tomorrow we can go down...
- Early morning. - Oh.
Yeah, I told Maryanne I would go by
and pick up some supplies before we show up. No.
And it's on the way, so, yeah.
Well, I'll see you tomorrow.
Okay.
Good night, Joe.
Good night, Meg.
Good night, Joe.
Would you stop it.
I don't want to be rude.
It's polite to say good night to someone.
I don't... I want to be professional.
- Yeah. - That's what you do, say goodnight
my, my person that I work with.
That's what you say!
Of course, you do.
All these boxes have stuff in them.
Hey, Alex. How you doing?
Christmas tapas. How are you?
Good to see you.
- You too! - Joe. Welcome aboard.
- Thanks. - Oh, uh...
we brought muffins.
Well, look at this crew.
There's a lot more than normal, right?
Yes. This is Martin.
- Hi! - And Frank.
Hey!
Oh, well, thank you all for being here.
There's so much to do, and I really appreciate the help.
- Put us to work. - Here. Corn.
No one can find the red food coloring.
But we found the green food coloring.
So we figured, oh, that'd be fine, right?
- It wasn't? - No, it was not.
But only because I had swapped sugar for salt.
So it was green,
and it was salty.
Henceforth known as the great grinch cake Christmas.
You tell a good story.
My Nia's like that.
- Is that your daughter? - Yeah.
So artistic. Such a way with words. Just...
- capable. Smart. But uh... - Hmm.
I was too strict. I know that now.
I worry too much.
I wanted to protect her so badly,
but she needed to spread her wings, so...
if I had it to do over, I'd...
you know, I'm rambling.
Is that why you don't celebrate Christmas with her?
It's not just that.
We're both pretty stubborn.
I got another box here. It's ready to go.
People just... tell you things, huh?
Yeah. I have that kind of face.
It means I get to hear some great stories.
Hmm.
What if we united them?
- Bring Frank's daughter into the cafe - I don't know.
I mean, it's very kind,
but that feels like it be a tiny step too far.
Yeah. Maybe you're right.
Hey, we're about done here.
I've gotta run one errand before the lunch rush.
Have you done your Christmas shopping yet?
Oh! This is so perfect.
It is.
Here you go. Thank you so much.
- Oh, thanks. Merry Christmas! - Merry Christmas.
We're adding to my Uncle Dave's Christmas village
- as a present for my mom. - Ah.
It's also a good way for her to remember him.
You're heading home tonight, right,
uh, for the theater opening?
Actually, no. No, and Jennifer
was really cool about me needing to stay here.
I just can't imagine
going back to the theater without Uncle Dave, you know.
Yeah.
Telling stories with sound effects.
01:34:45:00... -Popping his popcorn. Yeah.
Also, it kind of feels like
there's something here that I need to learn.
When I first started here,
I felt I was supposed to be here.
- You know. - Mm-hmm.
I mean, I don't know why.
But there's just so many things
I didn't really know how to do.
- Yeah? - Yeah.
Such as?
Well, I learned I like being part of a team, you know?
Finding new ways to create deeper connections
with the restaurant, community.
You really are a big picture guy, aren't you?
The details on the other hand,
the decorations, the publicity.
Hey.
I'm learning.
As a matter of fact, I told Maryanne
to give me the Food Bank donor list.
As soon as Alex is done with that email blast...
Invites away.
Frank: You know, I'm really
enjoying myself this morning, Meg.
Well, I just hope that we win this party challenge
so we can help give even more.
What do you mean?
If we win the prize money,
it's gonna go towards expanding the Food Bank
into kind of a free grocery store.
Oh.
Food Banks are amazing, and at the store,
people have even more choices.
Wow. That's awesome.
Okay! I got you a gift
that you're really gonna love.
This is a double wide tree.
And I got you a gift that you're really gonna love,
it's a double, double wide tree.
What, are we selling these things now?
So let me get this straight,
uh, you got me a tree, and I got you a tree.
Great minds think alike, huh?
We should take these out back, put them in some water.
Now hold on. One second.
Let me just... hold on.
Frank?
Don't move.
This is a perfect picture for the email blast
for the Food Bank donor list. They'll love it!
Ha ha! Yes!
Yes. Look at this picture!
It's so good!
This is so great.
Ah, maybe we should start coordinating
our screwball mistakes.
This was the best possible kind of screwball mistake.
I agree.
Actually, maybe you're right about trees in the restaurant.
Maybe we should put them in the back.
Dinner prep is handled.
Everyone in the kitchen knows what to do.
This place could run without me.
Which is good 'cause I could use a break.
Up for a quick walk?
Oh, look at these decorations.
Yeah, Salt Lake knows how to do business, for sure.
Any news from Jennifer?
She's loving spending so much time with Simon.
I think the theater really lit something
inside of her, you know?
Hmm. - What?
I know it's everyone's first Christmas without your Uncle,
and I'm glad Jennifer and Simon are doing well.
I'm fine. Really.
I am. I'm having fun.
Helping out with the party. Helping the staff.
I almost don't want to leave.
But you are, right? Off to France?
I'm...
- Oh, sorry. - No problem.
- I have to take this. - Okay.
I'll see you back at the restaurant?
Of course.
Take two. It's Christmas.
Thank you.
Have you seen how many RSVPs we've gotten?
Oh, wow! This is
- way too many. - Really good news.
This is 20 over what the restaurant will hold,
and it's still growing.
Aw. Well, it's a real party now.
Where are we gonna put all these people?
And how much Christmas cheer can we spread
if everyone is waiting outside trying to get in?
That's a really good problem to have.
Some may even say this is a Christmas miracle.
I wish I had your optimism.
Honestly, me too.
Meg, Joe.
I have news. First...
I got the job!
The Naidre Miller?
What? Congratulations, Victoria!
We know how much you wanted this.
Thank you.
I mean, it's terrible for us.
We're never gonna be the same.
But we're thrilled, Victoria.
We really are thrilled for you.
And my sister Jane is having triplets.
- Yes! - Whoa.
I'm so excited to get them little matching outfits.
No, no, no, no. She's having them right now.
As we speak.
Right now? Is everything okay?
Yes. Triplets come early. It's normal, I guess, but,
but she's going to need help,
and the job starts soon, and...
I have to go.
Tomorrow.
You're leaving?
- You're gonna go. - Okay.
Okay.
Of course. Congratulations.
- This is good news. - Yeah.
Yeah. I'm excited for you.
It's huge!
And don't worry about this here.
- Yes. - We got this.
- We have totally got this. - We got this.
Thank you, guys.
Both: No chef.
Uh, it's time to call Jennifer.
No. No, I know she needs to be there.
And my parents need her there.
And tonight's the opening of the theater. Just...
- we can handle this. - How?
What's the plan?
I-I don't know yet.
Hi.
Hi. I brought coffee.
Oh. Not cocoa?
Listen, cocoa is delicious. I like cocoa a lot.
But why is it every December
that's all anyone ever offers me?
Why are we suddenly not allowed to drink coffee?
It actually sounds like you could use some coffee.
Come on in.
Thanks.
So...
I came by today to tell you that
I didn't tell Jennifer yet.
I appreciate that.
You know, I'll tell her
at the Hazelwood park tree lighting.
But it's my job to tell her, uh, today.
If she finds out that we replaced
a new head chef with someone else,
well, that wouldn't make me good at my job.
You know what? Just tell her
that I've been interviewing the whole time.
You absolutely have.
- Wow. - Yeah.
You know what, I'll call her.
I'll call her up,
I'll tell her that the search process is well underway,
and then I'll counter with the really good news
that we've got so many RSVPs
that we've outgrown the restaurant.
That doesn't feel better.
I have a lead on a new chef.
Oh! You do?
Jesse Collins.
I know that name. Why do I know that name?
Head chef at Chez Barrel.
Michelin rated. Won an award for...
Revolutionized the grilled cheese. Wensleydale and apples.
He's the guy who built that big like ice...
It's Jennifer. You get it.
I'm not gonna...
you get it! Tell her!
I don't know what to say! Hello, hi, Jennifer!
Jennifer: Meg?
I don't know what you're saying. Write it.
Let me ask you a question.
When you pick up the phone to call me,
how am I listed?
Does it say my name? Does it say Meg?
Is it my name that you click on when...
Jennifer: What's the expiration date
on this phone bit of yours? Is it soon?
No, it is not.
How was the Madison?
Well, it was 10 degrees
inside, and the projector broke.
Also, there was a small fire.
And then, I got a call from Victoria,
my now former head chef,
who I'm happy for, but also...
Yes. I was gonna call you.
I was gonna call you,
but I didn't,
because...
- Joe wouldn't let me. - Jennifer: What?
- Hey! - Hey.
Are you kidding?
Yes. I am.
I'm totally kidding. I'm kidding.
He did want to call you, but I told him no because...
of um, the Madison.
Alright, let's just talk about this when I get back.
- For now, just tell me- - You're coming back here?
Jennifer: Well, yeah.
I have to help find a head chef,
and I have to check on the Christmas party,
and make sure the staff is okay.
Oh, no, no. Joe has a lead on a chef.
Tussy...
- Lollins. - What?
Collins...
Jes-Jesse Collins.
Jennifer: The grilled cheese guy?
Yes. With the Michelin asterisks.
Number signs. I mean, stars.
The stars.
So, see, we have this completely handled.
Jennifer: Okay, but the second
anything else goes wrong...
- I'm gonna call you. - Jennifer: Call me.
I'm gonna call you. Of course. Obviously.
I love you.
I love you, too.
Bye.
Nailed it.
A little to the left.
Yeah. Yeah, yeah, yeah. That's good.
That's perfect!
Hey, what are we doing for the ornaments?
Oh, just in time.
It looks great in here.
- And I brought the ornaments. - Alright. Alright.
Yes.
Food bank clients. People buy gifts
for the kids on the ornaments.
Oh.
I've always wanted to do an angel tree.
Ah, but never had time to set one up.
You know, the board
has been asking for years to hire some extra help.
- Hmm. - I agree with the board.
You do need some help.
Guys, guys, guys. Come here.
Uh, Jesse Collins is here. Fingers crossed.
W-w-wait. If you can
lock in Jesse Collins as our chef,
I will go full town busy body and make sure
that we can fit 200 bodies in here for the party.
Okay. Alright. Jesse! Jesse.
Hey, if you need a bigger space for your party,
why not use mine?
The Food Bank is a big building.
Capacity is 300.
You're like a genius Mrs. Claus
with a really good haircut.
- Oh! - Thank you, Maryanne.
Oh! Hey, Meg.
Oh, hi, there. Welcome to Umber and Sprig.
Table for one?
Actually, um, this is gonna sound a little weird.
Oh. I live for weird.
I got this email from the Food Bank
inviting me to your Christmas party.
We love an in person RSVP. Cookie?
Actually, I... recognized my dad.
Oh! You must be Frank's daughter.
You must be Nina.
Yeah. I... he called me
and left a message a couple days ago.
Um, and then this photo,
and I thought, well, actually,
I thought, maybe if I come down,
I'm not sure what I thought.
Joe! Come here!
This is Nina.
- This is Frank's daughter. - Oh, wow.
You know, Frank, he's gonna be in here any minute.
- Yeah. - He told me about you.
I think he misses you.
You know, I... I'm not sure this was the best idea. Um,
- actually, I should go. - Oh...
This was a mistake.
You don't have to... go.
I wish we could get them back together.
That's very kind of you,
but I don't know if Frank wants to just
show up and see his daughter out of the blue.
Well...
I don't want Frank to spend Christmas all by himself.
Who says he will? I mean, for Christmas Eve,
I plan on having dinner here at the restaurant with the staff.
On Christmas day, I'm handing out coffee,
and cinnamon rolls at the Food Bank.
Just because you're not spending Christmas with family,
doesn't mean you're spending it alone.
Well, right. Of cour...
Wait, you don't see family at all?
Oh, in January.
Things slow down, it's easier to get away.
Hey, so, tonight is Victoria's last shift,
and we have an idea.
Singer: ♪ Mm mm mm mm
♪ Can you believe it's here
♪ Our favorite time of year
♪ Smiles of bright light diamonds all around ♪
♪ Ooh ooh ooh
Surprise!!
Oh my god!
Congratulations!
♪ Ooh ooh ooh
♪ 'Cause there's no gift like the present ♪
♪ Why not live in the moment
♪ Shake off our yesterdays
♪ I'm gonna shake, shake, shake, shake ♪
♪ And let's celebrate good times ♪
♪ Make a memory
Alright, Merry Christmas. Okay.
Ah.
- Hi. - Hi.
Brought you a refreshment.
- Oh, thanks. - You're welcome.
Jesse Collins turned us down I'm afraid.
Says he likes where he is.
Oh, oh, man.
He called you at midnight?
Ah, these are chef's hours.
This is when all the fun stuff happens.
How could he not want to hang out with this bunch?
I mean, build a community...
And the people will gather.
Your sister says that all the time.
She got it from my dad.
That and his knack for decorations.
He goes all out, wow.
It is pretty.
Well, I guess, um...
I'll cancel my trip for the tree lighting,
and I'll help you find a chef.
Ah, yes. The famous Hazelwood tree lighting.
Hang on. Hazelwood is an hour from here.
Yeah.
And we'd go through...
Are you up for a road trip?
I have an idea.
Yeah.
Oh! Christmas decorations, and look at the horses!
We should take a carriage ride!
- Focus. - So hard to focus.
Listen.
If we can convince Julie to come to Umber and Sprig
until we find a chef replacement...
Problem solved. And we can celebrate
with caramel apples!
And if she says no.
Then we'll eat the caramel apples and our feelings.
Joe Miller. Look at you!
How are you?
You didn't tell me you were coming.
Surprise!
- Hi. - How are you?
I'm fine. How are you?
- Good. It's good to see you. - You too.
- You look great. - Thanks.
- It's been a long time. - It has been.
- Hi. - Hi.
Merry Christmas.
Nice to meet you. I'm Meg. Nice to meet you, too.
- So. - So.
Meg and I drove up from Salt Lake
- on a whim because - Oh.
We have something exciting
that we want to discuss with you.
Oh! Okay. Um, you know,
the lunch rush should take just a little bit,
can you guys come back?
- Of course. - Yeah.
We can entertain ourselves.
- We can. - Okay. Okay, great.
Meg: It's hard to relax when there's work to do,
but look at us now. Smiling even.
So this is what people with free time
and social lives do.
Can you imagine? Grabbing a bite.
- Going on a date. - Right?
When was your last good date?
Ooh. It's been a minute. Or longer.
I'm not opposed to going on them,
Um, I just, I feel like
I need to figure out what's next for me
before I focus on sharing that with someone.
Is that, am I overthinking that?
No, no, no.
I understand. I wanna meet someone.
Eventually have a family.
But most dates I go on,
everyone's in such a rush.
Hmm.
If you had come sooner,
I would've absolutely said yes, but
they upped my hours last week.
Meg: Oh. So sorry.
Well, at least let us buy
some of your caramel apples for the party.
- Yes. Absolutely. - Joe: Okay.
So no chef.
Well, Victoria set us up pretty good for now.
I have faith in the staff.
At least for a few days.
Meg: Here it is. The heart of Hazelwood.
My parents' bakery.
Oh, it looks so pretty all lit up.
Actually, I think I know what to do with that tree.
Pull out. Let's keep driving.
Yes.
You know, this is the perfect place for this guy.
Was there always a tree in the theatre?
Young Meg: I think that's Spanish.
No. El is Spanish.
La is French.
La like falalalala?
But it's a nasal thing.
It's gotta be like... la.
La?
Yeah. Close your nostrils thing.
See? No matter what you say, they understand it.
Your bad French got us into
some of the worst places with the best people.
I'll be so excited to see them when we get there.
They're such good friends, you know?
If I could live...
- Why don't you? - Move to Paris?
Eh, things have gone a different direction.
If I had the option,
then maybe, but I mean,
I have this.
I love being here. I mean,
it's home.
L'home.
- Yes. - Right?
L'home. L'home. L'home.
Uncle: L'home.
Meg: That's very strange.
Meg?
Yes. Yes.
There was always a tree in the Madison theater.
Can I ask why he didn't leave it to you?
Oh. Uh, well, we talked about it.
Um, my family's always had
restaurants and theaters in these places
that became like little communities.
That's not you?
Oh, no. That's totally me.
I live for that kind of thing.
This place just always felt like it was his.
Also, I think it's just too hard
to be here when he's not.
Isn't he?
Seems like he's pretty good at the details.
Kind of like something you live for.
He did. Yeah.
You know, people leave
pieces of themselves behind, you know.
Not just in places.
But in the people they love.
Part of me feels like I could've taken it over.
Look at this ticket.
Oh, tree lighting is starting up.
Think I'll join them.
Hazelwood, are you ready
to light this Christmas tree?
1, 2, 3, 4...
♪ You better watch out
♪ You better not cry
♪ You better not pout, I'm telling you why ♪
♪ Santa Claus
♪ is coming to town
♪ He's making a list
♪ And checking it twice
♪ He's gonna find out who's naughty and nice ♪
♪ Santa Claus is coming to town ♪
Meg! We're over here!
Hi! Hey, Jen!
Meg and Joe? Wait a minute.
Who's running the restaurant?
Alex is in charge of the kitchen.
We went to Fort Morgan Farms...
It's totally under control.
To see if maybe Julie wanted to take...
Wait. One at a time. What's happening?
Jesse Collins turned us down.
Meg, you said everything was under control.
- It is. - We just...
It sounds worse than it is.
I-I promise. We have a whole plan.
Wait, so do you have any other
prospects for the chef position?
Are we promoting someone? What are we doing?
- Um... - Well...
No one's quite ready to take over,
but I have some ideas.
What was I thinking?
I never should've left for this long.
Alright, we're going back to the city.
We gotta figure this out.
Okay, well, what about the theater?
- Wait... - You don't have to...
Jen, we really, we have it under control.
- Yes. - We really do.
I'm sorry, Meg, but can you understand
how it doesn't seem that way to me?
Excuse me one minute.
Jennifer: Simon, I understand, but...
No, no. I get that you're trying to come up
with what we're doing next,
and if we have to go back to Salt Lake after this,
and this is all just
a really good dream, that's okay.
I just really want to make sure
that we can do this tomorrow.
Okay. Well, I'll turn around
and come back as soon as I get everything in order.
I love you.
I love you, too.
Meg?
You can come out now.
What? No, I'm not... I just...
I just wanted to make sure that this pole was secure.
The structure of these whole buildings.
Of course.
- Critical. - Yeah.
How'd you know I was there?
You know, I see a lot more than people give me credit for.
Come on.
So, staying in Hazelwood, are you?
What's that about?
Are you kidding? I love it here.
I mean, we almost have the theater up and running.
Mom is happier and more relaxed
than I've seen her in years.
With the exception of last night, but that's on me.
Yeah, no. I wouldn't worry too much about that.
You guys always bring out the best in each other.
Hi! Mom, do you have those lattes for Joe and me?
Gee, it was good to see you
at the tree lighting last night.
Mm, I had the best time.
Thank you for lending Joe the couch.
Joe, we just hope you were comfortable.
Oh, it was perfect.
How often do you get to sleep next to a Christmas tree?
We just loved having you.
Oh, thank you.
The more chance we get to spend time with you,
before you go to France, the better.
Have you bought that return ticket yet?
Dad, I know you think I'm being reckless.
We have said no such thing.
If you are sure that this is what you want to do,
we support you.
Thank you.
Well, uh, we should get on the road.
Mr. and Mrs. Swift.
- Bye, I love you. - It was a pleasure.
- Yes, sir. - So nice to meet you.
Alright.
Radio: ♪ We wish you a merry Christmas ♪
♪ We wish you a merry Christmas ♪
♪ We wish you a merry...
You know, these are classic Christmas tunes playing here.
Want to sing along?
Sorry. I was just trying to think through
this chef problem, that's all.
Maybe you can send someone from Paris.
I'm just surprised
you haven't mentioned this trip at all.
Well, I wasn't trying to keep it a secret.
- Mm. - Or anything.
To be honest,
I don't even know if it's what I want.
There's gotta be someone right in front of us.
Chef position. Someone we're not...
Hold on. Hold on.
I have an idea.
Hi. Oh, hi. It's me.
Um, listen, I need you to find
my sister Jennifer's article
from Great Salt magazine from last year.
And also, talk to me about the red velvet doughnuts.
So you think this is our new chef?
I mean, Martin's great. I like the guy.
But I don't think he's ready for a kitchen like ours.
His food is best I've had here.
Plus, we already know he fits in with the staff
which is always a gamble
when you're hiring off of an interview.
That's true.
- Hey, all. Back... - Hey!
Wait, you're... you're Jennifer Swift.
Mm, yeah.
Martin: Wow, okay, uh, your article last year
in Great Salt about uh, hospitality,
and community building, like that...
Yeah.
That is always what I've believed restaurants can be.
Wow. Well, thank you.
- Thank you so much. - Of course.
Um, we'll each have one of everything, please.
- Oh, wow! - Mm-hmm!
You know, I would come here every day!
Of course!
You know what? We need someone immediately.
I say, let's do it. Let's make him an offer.
Yeah?
Okay. I'll make him an offer.
Great.
Are you two...
- Is there... - Between us?
What? Like a romantic...
No. We are...
Work in the store.
I'm just gonna...
get some water.
Hey, Joe. What's going on?
You know, you know your sister's vision.
And beyond that, you know, you uh,
push things to the next level.
It's been amazing to watch. And helpful.
Thank you.
Martin can cook, I think the staff and I
can help him find his way around.
Bigger kitchen.
So what's going on here?
Well, I was thinking to myself yesterday,
on the carriage ride,
that you and I,
We fit.
Yes. I was thinking it too,
but you said that you wanted something more permanent.
I know. Um...
And, and you're going off to France, and uh...
Maybe not. I don't know.
Either way, you know, um...
either way,
I have a chef I gotta
hire and train.
And so, I'll see you back at the uh...
Oh, you...
- Hi. - Hi.
It's complicated.
Come on.
I'm sorry I didn't trust you,
you really do know what you're doing, Meg.
Thanks.
You okay over there?
I am. You know, the longer I'm here,
the more I think maybe instead of going to France,
I should
use that money to start something of my own.
I mean, I'm worried that without Uncle Dave,
France is gonna feel...
like Hazelwood.
But with better cheese.
You know,
one thing I know about grief,
is that you will get to the other side of it.
And it's good to do what feels best
while you're moving through it.
Maybe for you, that's cheese.
Right now, it feels best
just sitting here with you.
I'm glad you came back.
Mm. Me too.
And I'm really excited to sit next to you
tomorrow night and watch a movie.
Yeah.
This is a really good space.
Oh, look at her. Wow!
Whoo!
Hi!
Oh, hi. Uh, I'm an 8.
- 8. Perfect. - Yeah.
- Thanks. - Alex: Hey, Meg Swift.
- Hello! - Martin: Hi there!
Meg! Yay! Come on! Whoo!
Aah! Whoo!
Okay. Oh!
- Oh! - Aah!
You okay?
Yeah. I'm good.
No Jennifer?
Oh, no. She had to go back to Hazelwood.
Oh, okay.
I told her we had it.
We got it as long as you hold on to me.
Oh, you having fun with your ice skating?
Oh, I'm having a blast.
Yeah, seems like it.
And if I take the job,
you're sure you're okay working together?
Well, the way I see it,
we're both smart, reasonable people.
I just, I don't want to risk
whatever... this is for...
Just take the job.
We'll work out whatever happens next.
Yeah?
Okay.
Announcer: Alright, everyone. Grab a partner
because it's time for the mistletoe skate.
♪ But when you sing
Thank you!
♪ The little things, like how we flow ♪
What you said earlier...
It's like you said before, you know,
in order to add someone to your life,
you have to know what you're looking for.
And uh,
it's obvious, you're still searching.
And so I guess, we'll throw the best
Christmas party this city's ever seen.
Yeah.
Maryanne: I don't want to disturb anything,
but just think about it.
Joe: I will. Thank you, Maryanne.
Hey. Hey.
Everything okay?
Yeah. Just some uh,
some things for me to think about, so.
It's nice in here, right?
Yeah. You were right.
The wreaths and the garland are beautiful.
- Simple, tasteful. - Oh.
Not prim or Victorian?
Not until we start bringing in
the tiny cakes with small, ornate spoons.
So...
we're okay?
Yeah. Yeah, I think you were right,
I-I don't know what's next for me.
But the more I think, about it...
I mean, look at this place.
It has been
a memorable time, you know?
The more I try to pin down what's next for me,
the more I think it's, it's here.
The restaurant, the people,
And then I think, oh, good job.
Meg, you've just imagined yourself
directly into your big sister's life.
And that's not what I want. I want
something that's mine.
Hmm.
And on and on I go in my brain around and around.
You know, I have to go.
Um, I have to swing by the restaurant
before I head to Hazelwood.
I'll ride to the restaurant with you.
Okay.
Yeah, I got a few things to pick up.
Okay.
Hey, that lunch rush is kind of taking...
It's happening. She's here.
Frank's daughter waiting at his table.
- Okay. - Yeah.
- We gotta be cool. - Yeah.
Frank's here.
He's here. Hi.
Uh, Frank, how-how are you?
We have some exciting things on the menu today
you're gonna enjoy.
Nina.
How are you?
- Okay. - Okay.
No, wait. Hold on. Just stay. Be cool.
Just, let's just feel it.
Just feel it.
I had no idea you'd be here.
I better tell everybody.
Sounds good.
Okay, for Frank and his daughter,
let's send out our very best.
Let's start with the Christmas tapas,
move on to the soup, maybe with a garnish...
I got this. Use me.
Really? Okay.
I don't know what else to do.
Nina, wait.
I came here out of love,
and you do this every time.
Frank: Nina...
Nina: Every time.
Frank: Why do you have to be a hot head?
Nina: Oh, gosh, dad. You'll never change.
Hey.
Some things just... take more time, I guess.
Is there anything we can do for you?
No. No. Don't worry about me.
I'm back tomorrow. But today...
Today, I'm just not hungry.
Should we... go after him?
No. I think I've done enough meddling for today.
I gotta get on the road to Hazelwood.
Nobody in this family does anything by themselves.
Oh, yay!
I'll be back.
Uncle Dave: You know, people aren't always
gonna listen to your ideas or change their mind,
But that doesn't mean you stop believing in them.
Uncle Dave: It takes a little patience.
And you gotta look for the right time.
And then you show 'em what you got.
You see? The two of you working together.
Always the best plan.
I love you.
I love you, too.
What if we kept everything
exactly the way it is right now?
Hmm.
Whoa.
Two sweet old ladies sitting on a countertop.
Emphasis on the old.
True.
All I need is you, me,
and a comfortable place to sit down.
And snacks.
Oh. Snacks!
Yes!
Here.
Nailed it.
Hey, have you been down to the basement?
It's huge. You know, it's big enough
for like a working, restaurant-sized kitchen.
A movie theater/restaurant's a good idea.
I know, right?
I cancelled my flight.
What?
I love Salt Lake.
Whatever's next for me,
I think it's in that city.
I mean, if I could work for you,
for a little while...
Oh, my gosh, well, truth be told,
we should probably
Both: just go into business together.
Wait. So that would mean we...
pool our resources while...
we run the restaurant together and...
You build the kitchen.
And we keep The Madison in the family.
And then we build whatever's next...
Both: Together.
Whoa!
Time to whip up a batch of brownies
and cuddle up in front of your favorite cozy flick
because you're not going anywhere.
A surprise Christmas snowstorm
has snarled traffic all over the region.
Expect it to last through tomorrow
in downtown Salt Lake City,
Ooh hoo hoo! It's really cold!
- Close your eyes. - Whoa!
Oh, my gosh. Is this a prank?
Am I about to be sprayed with water?
No. Why would I, why would I do that?
Just come with me. Stand here.
What's happening?
Now. You were right.
A good party needs things for people to do, so,
our team and I came up with a few of those.
Voila.
Oh!
First, we have
a cookie decorating station.
Your suggestion.
I am gonna make an entire fleet
of reindeer cookies complete with
tiny, little ugly Christmas sweaters.
You said photo booths were hokey!
And I stand by that.
Does it work?
Of course, it works. Here. Here you go.
You just press this button. Here, sit.
Sit here.
Ready? Say cheese!
Cheese!
Oh, I love it!
See? We make a great team, right?
Yes. We do.
Speaking of which...
No, wait. I have something I want to tell you.
I'm not going to France. I'm gonna stay.
Right here.
Details are still being worked out,
but I'm gonna go into business with my sister.
Wow. So you're... staying.
Yeah. Which, I think, is good news, for us.
I hope.
Maryanne: Oh. There you are.
We have a problem.
The roads are in terrible shape,
and they're asking anyone who doesn't need to travel
to stay home.
Are people gonna be able to get to the party tonight?
I don't know.
It doesn't matter.
The magazine just cancelled everything.
Oh...
In consolation for cancelling the parties,
Great Salt will be splitting the prize money
among the chosen charities.
Wow! So we're still gonna be getting
a good deal of money.
Sounds like it.
Is that gonna be enough for you to start the store
Oh, probably not.
But it will feed a lot of people.
More than last year.
Oh, and Joe.
Once you're on board full-time,
maybe we can use some of the money
to start the outreach program you wanted to start.
Full-time?
Uh...
Uh, I got...
stuff to... yeah.
Yeah, um...
Maryanne offered me a full-time position.
It's longer than the hours at the restaurant,
but it's absolutely what I want
and uh, I accepted. She said that
I could stay as long as I need to,
until Jennifer finds someone,
but since that's gonna be you...
This is great. You're gonna be so happy.
It's perfect!
We should probably
figure out the uh... wait. Um...
what does this, what does this mean about us?
You and me?
What is this?
This is rosemary potato croquettes.
And a bite-size turkey and stuffing
on water crackers with a cranberry reduction.
Yeah, did you guys not hear about the...
Oh, yeah. We-we saw the post about the party being cancelled
on our way here.
We thought we'd see if Maryanne
can't find a way to distribute these.
All this food is not about to go to waste.
Hold on. I have an idea. I have to make a phone call.
I'm gonna... I... 02:16:32:17 You know wha t? This is... I'm gonna...
Be back.
Nobody move.
Alright, uh, we have to move.
Yeah.
I'm gonna start taking down the Christmas decorations,
you guys should get that food in the fridge.
Well, if the problem is transportation,
maybe we could combine our resources.
So, Meg's staying. That's...
I don't know. Is she?
Meg makes decisions faster than any person I've ever met.
Says the guy who just changed jobs
in the blink of an eye.
What is this that you're doing?
And you would have room for all of us?
Great!
Joe: Okay.
You have told me to put myself out there.
Over and over and over.
You're embarrassing about it honestly.
But this is different.
No, it's not.
It's the same.
Maybe things are moving a little fast,
but that's just how these things go.
If you miss this chance,
you might not get another one.
Yeah.
Pack
everything up!
The party's back on!
Alright.
Meg: Hi!
You can start setting up over here.
Yeah, we can't use the whole space.
Yeah, we had to leave room
for the other restaurants in the contest.
Joe: She combined forces so people
can walk here so no matter how bad the roads are,
or if they can't be driveable...
One party, everybody is welcome.
Not an invite list, not a magazine
with a mysteriously judgmental editorial board.
Anyone who can get here safely
is welcome.
This looks amazing!
You guys! How are you here? The roads...
The roads were terrible. Yes.
But we are mountain folk,
and we know how to put chains on the tires.
We would not have missed this.
It just took a little bit longer.
Mom, you hate driving in the snow.
That was brave!
Brave? That?
You girls keep doing things that inspire you.
And those things always seem to help other people.
That, my darlings, is bravery.
- Hi. - Hi!
- Come on in!
So good to see you!
♪ Bring in that holiday love ♪
♪ I've got that feeling
♪ I want to give from the heart ♪
Thanks, Meg.
Oh, Maryanne.
I really wish we'd won you that contest money.
I'm sorry.
Well, we'll get there one way or another.
And Jennifer, I hope you don't mind
that I hired Joe to manage
the Food Bank. He's perfect.
As I assume you already know.
He is perfect,
and I'm so thrilled for you both really.
And now I get my sister.
Also perfect!
Oh... will you
just excuse me for one second.
Sure.
You're here.
Dad called again, and I gave it some thought,
and this time, I called him back.
And he invited me here.
Nina.
I'm just... thank you.
No. It's Christmas
you know, and it's better with family.
And I've missed you.
Dad.
- Hello, everyone. - Everyone?
Merry Christmas.
On behalf of The Big Mountain Food Bank
and the other charities represented here today,
I'd like to thank these three
amazing restaurants
for putting this party on
and all of you for braving the snow.
And now, a new friend of The Food Bank
would like to say a little something.
Hello, everyone.
This Christmas,
thanks to the attention and care of everyone,
at Umber and Sprig,
well, I'm not alone.
I'm here with friends and... I have my daughter Nina.
And in honor of that kindness,
I'm committing to fund whatever it costs
to turn The Big Mountain Food Bank
into the store they want it to be.
A place for people with food insecurity
can get whatever they need.
And I want to dance with whomever asks.
Yeah!
♪ We're putting out those decorations ♪
♪ Putting up the tree
♪ And the kids have started
♪ counting down the days
♪ Snow is falling, people making ♪
♪ Plans with family
Hi there.
Hi! Wanna take a photo with me?
It is your favorite thing.
It's my whole thing.
♪ Heyyyy sleigh bells ringing
♪ Carols playing
Okay, you press the button.
That's it. I mean, you just press the...
♪ Hear that sound The holidays are here ♪
Well. So that's it, you just...
Shh. Kissing.
♪ In red and green I love this time of year ♪
Do you want to spend Christmas with me?
I would love to.
I gotta go find my sister.
♪ Oh oh oh
Hey, uh...
♪ The sweetest time of year ♪
♪ Look around the holidays are here ♪
♪ TV on, can't wait for that parade in NYC ♪
♪ And curling up around the... ♪
What? What?
Wait, did you...
I kissed Joe!
Rules of the season?
Oh, you know it!
5, 6, 7, 8...
♪ When it's time for the holidays ♪
♪ Oh yeah
♪ Oh ohhhh Oh ohhh
♪ The sweetest time of the year ♪
♪ Sweetest time of the year ♪
♪ Look around the holidays are here ♪
We did it, sister!
We did! Merry Christmas!
Merry Christmas!
♪ The holidays are here
♪ Look around the holidays are here ♪
Whoo!