1 00:00:02,000 --> 00:00:07,000 Downloaded from YTS.MX 2 00:00:08,000 --> 00:00:13,000 Official YIFY movies site: YTS.MX 3 00:00:11,881 --> 00:00:14,536 ♪ With a partridge in a pear tree ♪ 4 00:00:14,666 --> 00:00:16,842 ♪ Lots of golden rings ♪ 5 00:00:16,973 --> 00:00:21,543 ♪ The snow is coming down now and I know what that means ♪ 6 00:00:21,673 --> 00:00:25,895 ♪ My true love you're coming been waiting way too long ♪ 7 00:00:25,982 --> 00:00:27,897 ♪ Oh those turtle doves now ♪ 8 00:00:27,984 --> 00:00:30,421 ♪ Are gonna sing their pretty song ♪ 9 00:00:30,552 --> 00:00:35,078 ♪ Home and snow and mistletoe-oh-oh ♪ 10 00:00:35,165 --> 00:00:39,604 ♪ Stars and bells and candles have it all up in a bow ♪ 11 00:00:39,735 --> 00:00:44,131 ♪ Home and snow and mistletoe-oh-oh ♪ 12 00:00:44,218 --> 00:00:48,439 ♪ Sweet warm apple cider and little hearts aglow ♪ 13 00:00:48,570 --> 00:00:52,443 ♪ Wrap it all up in a bow-oh-oh ♪ 14 00:00:52,574 --> 00:00:55,620 ♪ Whoa ♪ 15 00:00:55,707 --> 00:00:57,622 ♪ Drummers drumming good songs ♪ 16 00:00:57,753 --> 00:01:00,060 ♪ Pipers pipin' ♪ 17 00:01:00,190 --> 00:01:02,105 ♪ Boughs of holly up now ♪ 18 00:01:02,192 --> 00:01:04,673 ♪ Fa-la-la go trim the tree ♪ 19 00:01:04,803 --> 00:01:08,416 ♪ Mid-winter at midnight woodland beauty ♪ 20 00:01:08,546 --> 00:01:13,377 ♪ Get the wreath and stockings ring the bells merrily oh ♪ 21 00:01:13,508 --> 00:01:15,292 I'm sure, over the years, 22 00:01:15,423 --> 00:01:18,382 a lot of you have heard that whole writer's rule, 23 00:01:18,513 --> 00:01:22,299 don't write about your life, because no one cares about that. 24 00:01:22,430 --> 00:01:27,522 But on the same token, you get that whole 25 00:01:27,652 --> 00:01:29,741 "Write what you know." 26 00:01:29,828 --> 00:01:32,831 So what's the difference? 27 00:01:32,962 --> 00:01:36,792 I think the idea is that, at a general glance, 28 00:01:36,922 --> 00:01:40,665 our lives are kind of boring. 29 00:01:40,796 --> 00:01:44,930 But it's what we learn along the way, 30 00:01:45,017 --> 00:01:48,586 in all of those hundreds of little moments 31 00:01:48,673 --> 00:01:50,458 in our life story, 32 00:01:50,588 --> 00:01:55,637 those things turn out to be brilliant when put to the page. 33 00:02:00,250 --> 00:02:01,295 So your Maya Takes The Town books, 34 00:02:01,425 --> 00:02:04,515 those are not at all based on you? 35 00:02:04,602 --> 00:02:07,083 And why ever would you think that? 36 00:02:07,214 --> 00:02:09,607 Well, besides the name similarities, 37 00:02:09,694 --> 00:02:13,742 Maya, Mikaela, I mean, you both live in the same city, 38 00:02:13,872 --> 00:02:16,875 you're both single, and you're both holiday-spiced, 39 00:02:16,962 --> 00:02:19,965 latte-loving workaholics, right? 40 00:02:21,358 --> 00:02:23,317 What is your name, Mr. Back-row? 41 00:02:23,404 --> 00:02:26,407 - Levi McGuire. - Well, Mr. McGuire... 42 00:02:26,494 --> 00:02:30,672 While I appreciate your knowledge of my taste 43 00:02:30,759 --> 00:02:33,544 in holiday-spiced lattes as seen here, 44 00:02:33,675 --> 00:02:36,156 my relationship status is not public knowledge. 45 00:02:36,243 --> 00:02:39,550 So how do you even know I'm single? 46 00:02:39,681 --> 00:02:41,335 Um, are you not? 47 00:02:45,904 --> 00:02:48,646 The character in my books, Maya, 48 00:02:48,733 --> 00:02:51,040 is still single, yes. 49 00:02:51,127 --> 00:02:54,217 But who knows, 50 00:02:54,304 --> 00:02:58,917 that could always change in the last book. Guess we'll see. 51 00:02:59,048 --> 00:03:01,877 Now I think that does it for our writer's workshop. 52 00:03:01,964 --> 00:03:04,532 Anyone else have any questions? 53 00:03:04,662 --> 00:03:06,316 Okay, great. Well, happy holidays. 54 00:03:06,403 --> 00:03:09,101 And thank you so much for coming. Thank you. 55 00:03:13,628 --> 00:03:16,283 Mikaela, hi, I... 56 00:03:16,370 --> 00:03:18,285 Sorry, I-I don't mean to pry, but I had to ask. 57 00:03:18,372 --> 00:03:19,851 I mean, what's the hold-up with the book? 58 00:03:19,938 --> 00:03:21,201 Everyone's dying to read. 59 00:03:21,331 --> 00:03:25,161 It's, um, it's still in the works, so... 60 00:03:25,292 --> 00:03:28,643 - May I ask you what it's about? - Actually, no. 61 00:03:28,730 --> 00:03:30,297 That is top secret information, but rest assured, 62 00:03:30,384 --> 00:03:33,169 it will be out very soon. 63 00:03:33,300 --> 00:03:36,651 Uh, Mr. McGuire, my agent Gigi, and my assistant Keifer. 64 00:03:36,781 --> 00:03:38,609 Nice to meet you both. 65 00:03:38,696 --> 00:03:40,524 And I'm so glad to hear that you're almost done. 66 00:03:40,611 --> 00:03:42,178 I mean, I know how anxious fans have been. 67 00:03:42,309 --> 00:03:45,660 Yes, yes. Thank you for the reminder. 68 00:03:45,747 --> 00:03:48,053 Yeah, so I was wondering if I could ask you 69 00:03:48,140 --> 00:03:49,577 a few questions, maybe pick your brain a little bit, 70 00:03:49,664 --> 00:03:53,711 about your mother's renowned old holiday writers' retreat. 71 00:03:53,842 --> 00:03:56,105 Are you, like, some kind of reporter? 72 00:03:56,192 --> 00:03:59,587 No, no-not exactly. I'm, I write non-fiction. 73 00:03:59,717 --> 00:04:02,198 I'm more so just a really big fan of her works. 74 00:04:02,329 --> 00:04:04,374 I mean, she was brilliant, especially in her last book. 75 00:04:04,505 --> 00:04:09,249 Well, thank you. I, um... 76 00:04:09,336 --> 00:04:12,164 Actually, she's super busy finishing the book still, 77 00:04:12,295 --> 00:04:14,645 but leave your card on the credenza if you like. 78 00:04:14,732 --> 00:04:17,213 And please do grab a bag of yummy vegan sugar cookies 79 00:04:17,300 --> 00:04:18,475 on your way out. 80 00:04:18,606 --> 00:04:20,216 Right. Okay. 81 00:04:21,870 --> 00:04:23,872 - Happy holidays. - Happy holidays! 82 00:04:24,002 --> 00:04:26,527 - Merry Christmas! Happy holidays. 83 00:04:29,921 --> 00:04:32,446 Hey, uh, you should think about reviving those retreats. 84 00:04:32,533 --> 00:04:35,231 From what I've heard, they were something special. 85 00:04:39,540 --> 00:04:43,718 Um, I cannot believe the nerve. 86 00:04:43,805 --> 00:04:46,024 I think he was cute. 87 00:04:46,111 --> 00:04:48,505 And it kinda seemed to me like he was flirting. 88 00:04:48,592 --> 00:04:49,419 Oh! 89 00:04:54,598 --> 00:04:57,079 Well, he was right about one thing. 90 00:04:57,166 --> 00:04:58,733 A lot of people are asking about this book, 91 00:04:58,820 --> 00:05:00,604 even the publishers are calling me every other day now. 92 00:05:00,691 --> 00:05:04,129 Yeah, I know, and trust me, I have been going back and forth 93 00:05:04,260 --> 00:05:06,349 over and over about the last 50 pages. 94 00:05:06,480 --> 00:05:08,786 I think you just need to decide on an ending. 95 00:05:08,873 --> 00:05:11,746 - Maybe one with Ben, hm? - No. 96 00:05:11,876 --> 00:05:15,315 Maya cannot end up with Ben. I don't care what the fans want. 97 00:05:15,402 --> 00:05:17,360 Maybe you just need a break, to take some time off 98 00:05:17,447 --> 00:05:19,928 for the holidays, clear your head. 99 00:05:20,015 --> 00:05:23,801 It's going to be fine. I'm going to finish it soon, I promise. 100 00:05:23,932 --> 00:05:26,891 Great, just go home where there are no distractions 101 00:05:27,022 --> 00:05:28,806 and figure it out, hm? 102 00:05:28,937 --> 00:05:30,678 This workshop was good for you, 103 00:05:30,765 --> 00:05:33,376 and now it's time to get back to Maya. 104 00:05:33,463 --> 00:05:35,378 Anyway, I have to run now. 105 00:05:35,465 --> 00:05:37,728 I have a holidate with a hunky nonprofit owner tonight, 106 00:05:37,859 --> 00:05:40,035 so I have to go buy something conservative. 107 00:05:43,081 --> 00:05:47,042 It's gonna be great, all right? Just write it. 108 00:05:47,129 --> 00:05:49,087 Merry Christmas! 109 00:05:49,218 --> 00:05:51,263 - Merry Christmas! Merry Christmas! 110 00:05:51,394 --> 00:05:54,441 Decline all holiday invites and anything holiday-related 111 00:05:54,571 --> 00:05:57,226 I have left. I have got to figure this out. 112 00:05:57,357 --> 00:05:58,183 Got it. 113 00:06:04,929 --> 00:06:08,890 Hey, dad. 114 00:06:08,977 --> 00:06:10,544 Is that my beautiful, successful star of a daughter? 115 00:06:10,674 --> 00:06:14,243 More like your down-trodden daughter 116 00:06:14,374 --> 00:06:15,592 at the moment. What are you up to? 117 00:06:15,723 --> 00:06:17,594 I'm making a little steak and stir-fry for the last 118 00:06:17,725 --> 00:06:20,380 of my guests before they head out tomorrow. 119 00:06:20,510 --> 00:06:23,948 Mm. Steak and stir-fry. Sounds yummy. 120 00:06:24,079 --> 00:06:27,038 It is, and I hope you're doing more for dinner 121 00:06:27,125 --> 00:06:30,912 than that tofu takeout and the glass of pinot noir. 122 00:06:30,999 --> 00:06:33,131 Not everyone can cook like you, dad. 123 00:06:33,262 --> 00:06:34,655 Well, then you need to get home, so I can 124 00:06:34,742 --> 00:06:36,961 feed you good and proper. 125 00:06:37,092 --> 00:06:41,313 Yeah. Um, that's actually why I was calling. 126 00:06:41,444 --> 00:06:45,927 I think I might need to stay home a bit longer for work. 127 00:06:46,057 --> 00:06:48,538 Maybe you need to just come home 128 00:06:48,669 --> 00:06:50,975 and work out here at the lake like your ma used to. 129 00:06:51,106 --> 00:06:52,194 Cured her writer's block every time. 130 00:06:52,324 --> 00:06:55,371 Funny enough, this guy there today at the workshop 131 00:06:55,458 --> 00:06:59,767 suggested that I revive mom's old holiday writers' retreats. 132 00:06:59,897 --> 00:07:01,812 That's not the worst idea in the world. 133 00:07:01,943 --> 00:07:04,206 What? Daddy, no! 134 00:07:04,293 --> 00:07:05,773 - That's ridiculous! - Why is it ridiculous? 135 00:07:05,860 --> 00:07:09,298 We can do it here at the chalet like your ma used to. 136 00:07:09,429 --> 00:07:12,127 Oh, and you would be a great host. 137 00:07:12,257 --> 00:07:13,433 But, dad... 138 00:07:15,304 --> 00:07:15,957 that was mom's thing. 139 00:07:16,044 --> 00:07:18,960 And it can be your thing. 140 00:07:19,047 --> 00:07:21,223 Just think about it, will you? 141 00:07:21,353 --> 00:07:23,443 Love you. Hope to see you soon. 142 00:07:30,362 --> 00:07:33,104 Okay, I actually have no idea what I'm doing here, 143 00:07:33,235 --> 00:07:36,020 but I am going to try to revive 144 00:07:36,151 --> 00:07:38,719 my mother's annual holiday writers' retreats. 145 00:07:38,849 --> 00:07:41,591 What? That's amazing, Mik. When? 146 00:07:41,722 --> 00:07:45,377 This next coming Monday, I think? 147 00:07:45,508 --> 00:07:48,119 Wow! Okay. 148 00:07:49,556 --> 00:07:50,774 So we have a lot of work to do. 149 00:07:50,905 --> 00:07:52,863 Yes. Exactly. That we do! 150 00:07:52,994 --> 00:07:54,952 But we are both single and have no lives. 151 00:07:55,083 --> 00:07:56,954 So, are you with me? 152 00:07:57,041 --> 00:07:57,868 More than any man I've ever loved. 153 00:07:57,955 --> 00:08:00,654 Wonderful! - Any pre-reqs? 154 00:08:00,784 --> 00:08:04,222 Nope, just resume and cover letter 155 00:08:04,309 --> 00:08:06,790 on why they should get the invite. 156 00:08:06,877 --> 00:08:07,617 - Okay. - Oh! 157 00:08:07,704 --> 00:08:11,360 And if Gigi calls, not a word. 158 00:08:11,447 --> 00:08:13,275 Copy that. 159 00:08:13,405 --> 00:08:16,060 - I am the face of silence. - You know what? 160 00:08:16,191 --> 00:08:20,021 Maybe this is exactly what I needed after all. 161 00:08:20,108 --> 00:08:23,198 - I'm feeling inspired already. - Aww! 162 00:08:23,328 --> 00:08:25,156 Okay, we got work to do. Let's go. 163 00:08:29,378 --> 00:08:31,293 So definitely Sharon Samuels. 164 00:08:31,380 --> 00:08:33,991 She's a great writer and she's working on a holiday cookbook. 165 00:08:34,078 --> 00:08:37,734 - Total shoe-in, right? - Yup. Sharon Samuels is in. 166 00:08:37,865 --> 00:08:38,953 Who else? 167 00:08:39,083 --> 00:08:43,044 Uh, I know you weren't crazy about this one, 168 00:08:43,174 --> 00:08:46,569 but I feel like Olive Olsen is a must. 169 00:08:46,700 --> 00:08:48,789 Keifer, I told you she's difficult. 170 00:08:48,919 --> 00:08:49,746 And the only reason you want her 171 00:08:49,833 --> 00:08:52,488 is because you love her musicals. 172 00:08:52,619 --> 00:08:53,663 And that is not a good enough reason to invite her. 173 00:08:53,794 --> 00:08:57,362 She's writing a new holiday musical! 174 00:08:57,449 --> 00:09:00,540 Hello, relevant. - Okay. 175 00:09:00,627 --> 00:09:03,412 I do like that, sure, but... 176 00:09:03,499 --> 00:09:05,370 Plus, she even offered to plug your retreat on her next 177 00:09:05,457 --> 00:09:08,199 musical's press tour right here in her letter. Aww... 178 00:09:08,330 --> 00:09:11,463 Yeah, providing it's a success. 179 00:09:11,551 --> 00:09:14,684 But what if she hates the retreat and bashes it instead? 180 00:09:14,815 --> 00:09:18,906 Mikaela, you are New York Times' bestselling book author. 181 00:09:19,036 --> 00:09:21,125 I wouldn't worry about it. 182 00:09:21,256 --> 00:09:23,475 Plus, look at all these applications we got. 183 00:09:23,606 --> 00:09:24,999 These are more than just your mother's fans. 184 00:09:25,086 --> 00:09:29,264 They're your contemporaries, and now they want your inspiration. 185 00:09:29,351 --> 00:09:33,877 Well, good, because I'm counting on this inspiring me 186 00:09:34,008 --> 00:09:37,098 the way it did my mother as well. 187 00:09:37,185 --> 00:09:40,971 If this retreat doesn't cure my block, 188 00:09:41,058 --> 00:09:42,886 nothing will. 189 00:09:42,973 --> 00:09:45,672 I have complete faith, 190 00:09:45,802 --> 00:09:48,370 but we still need to choose two more scribes, 191 00:09:48,500 --> 00:09:51,112 besides Olive Olsen, of course. 192 00:09:51,242 --> 00:09:52,722 Oh, actually, we just need one. 193 00:09:52,853 --> 00:09:55,507 I told an old family friend 194 00:09:55,595 --> 00:09:57,161 who works for my dad that he could have a spot. 195 00:09:57,248 --> 00:10:00,469 He's trying to write his very first screenplay. 196 00:10:00,600 --> 00:10:03,646 Oh! Cool! That sounds right up my alley. 197 00:10:03,733 --> 00:10:05,082 I think you two will get along great. 198 00:10:05,169 --> 00:10:06,562 Uh-huh. 199 00:10:08,520 --> 00:10:11,523 Okay, um, how about your inspiration 200 00:10:11,654 --> 00:10:14,265 for this whole retreat, Mr. Backseat Buddy? 201 00:10:14,352 --> 00:10:16,093 How about not a chance? 202 00:10:16,180 --> 00:10:19,009 - Mikaela, just hear me out. Hm? 203 00:10:19,140 --> 00:10:21,882 This guy is a great published non-fiction writer 204 00:10:22,012 --> 00:10:24,275 and he even edits. 205 00:10:24,362 --> 00:10:28,410 Dabbles in political writing and some biography pieces. 206 00:10:28,540 --> 00:10:30,325 Oh, he's kind of a genius. 207 00:10:30,455 --> 00:10:32,719 Okay, just, let me see the resume. 208 00:10:34,024 --> 00:10:35,852 Mm-hmm. Not bad. 209 00:10:35,983 --> 00:10:38,115 Still a no! 210 00:10:38,246 --> 00:10:41,858 - Face of silence, remember? 211 00:10:41,989 --> 00:10:43,164 Uh, mm. 212 00:10:53,087 --> 00:10:54,175 Tracy, hi. 213 00:10:54,305 --> 00:10:56,220 So did you get that interview 214 00:10:56,351 --> 00:10:56,917 with Ms. Leighton for that big holiday piece 215 00:10:57,004 --> 00:10:59,006 you promised me at the Happy? 216 00:10:59,093 --> 00:11:02,226 I left my card. I'm just waiting for a call. 217 00:11:02,313 --> 00:11:03,184 The holidays aren't waiting for her to call 218 00:11:03,314 --> 00:11:05,012 you back. 219 00:11:05,099 --> 00:11:06,666 Did you heard that she's going to revive 220 00:11:06,753 --> 00:11:08,363 her mother's old retreat? 221 00:11:08,493 --> 00:11:10,147 I did, yes. I applied last night. 222 00:11:10,234 --> 00:11:11,453 Just crossing all my fingers now. 223 00:11:11,583 --> 00:11:12,889 You can't write a retrospect with your fingers crossed. 224 00:11:13,020 --> 00:11:16,371 Get over there and make sure you get a spot. 225 00:11:16,501 --> 00:11:19,330 This is exactly the angle that we need. 226 00:11:19,461 --> 00:11:20,680 The Christmas Queens' bestselling author's daughter 227 00:11:20,767 --> 00:11:23,900 revives a legacy. 228 00:11:23,987 --> 00:11:28,165 See, Levi? It's practically written itself already. 229 00:11:28,252 --> 00:11:31,081 I hear you. I will get us that in-depth biography you need. 230 00:11:31,212 --> 00:11:32,474 Promise. 231 00:11:32,604 --> 00:11:35,651 All right, this retreat is officially on. 232 00:11:35,782 --> 00:11:37,914 Oh, and I almost forgot, gift shop up at the lake wants 233 00:11:38,001 --> 00:11:40,569 to know if the book signing is still on for tomorrow. 234 00:11:40,700 --> 00:11:43,224 I guess, I just can't believe they still wanna have a signing 235 00:11:43,311 --> 00:11:45,356 of my book that's two years old already. 236 00:11:46,357 --> 00:11:47,924 Oh, come on. 237 00:11:48,055 --> 00:11:51,623 It's your hometown. All of your biggest fans. 238 00:11:51,754 --> 00:11:54,104 You're practically a legend up there. 239 00:11:54,191 --> 00:11:55,453 And if they're not getting a new book, 240 00:11:55,540 --> 00:11:58,108 more signings of the old one will do. 241 00:11:58,195 --> 00:12:01,459 You're wrong. Maya is the legend. 242 00:12:01,590 --> 00:12:03,200 She's the one they keep coming back for. 243 00:12:03,331 --> 00:12:05,420 And after this delay, I'm surprised 244 00:12:05,507 --> 00:12:06,943 they don't all hate Mikaela by now. 245 00:12:07,074 --> 00:12:09,598 No. 246 00:12:09,685 --> 00:12:11,034 - Hi there. Hi. 247 00:12:11,121 --> 00:12:14,864 Mikaela, hello. Um, may I come in? 248 00:12:14,995 --> 00:12:17,954 Mr. McGuire, back again already, though I can't imagine why. 249 00:12:18,085 --> 00:12:22,567 Uh, well, I saw that you're hosting 250 00:12:22,698 --> 00:12:25,962 this incredible holiday retreat this weekend like I suggested, 251 00:12:26,049 --> 00:12:30,140 and I was just curious why I didn't get an in... 252 00:12:30,271 --> 00:12:32,273 I mean, you-you did get my application? 253 00:12:32,360 --> 00:12:36,538 Yes, I'm aware that you applied, but, Mr. McGuire, we can't jus-- 254 00:12:36,625 --> 00:12:38,714 Levi is fine. 255 00:12:38,801 --> 00:12:41,456 Okay, so then let me ask you. 256 00:12:41,543 --> 00:12:45,721 Levi, have you even read one of my books? 257 00:12:45,808 --> 00:12:48,202 I-I didn't know I was required to be a fan. 258 00:12:48,289 --> 00:12:50,770 You're just a fan of my mother's work then. 259 00:12:50,900 --> 00:12:53,424 I-I do appreciate her works, yeah. 260 00:12:53,555 --> 00:12:55,426 So then what you applied for 261 00:12:55,513 --> 00:12:58,560 is more intel on my late mother, 262 00:12:58,690 --> 00:13:00,736 rather than the actual retreat. 263 00:13:00,867 --> 00:13:03,086 That's not true. Look, I am in awe of you both. 264 00:13:03,173 --> 00:13:06,742 I mean, yes, your mother's retreat is, well, historical. 265 00:13:06,829 --> 00:13:09,266 What writer wouldn't leap at a shot to attend? 266 00:13:09,397 --> 00:13:12,748 My mother started this retreat not only to help cure 267 00:13:12,879 --> 00:13:15,577 seasonal writer's block, but even more so 268 00:13:15,664 --> 00:13:19,146 to help fiction writers expand their creative horizons. 269 00:13:19,276 --> 00:13:21,713 It wasn't made to give some non-fiction writer 270 00:13:21,844 --> 00:13:24,934 material for his next satirical essay. 271 00:13:25,065 --> 00:13:27,676 I wanna prove to myself that I'm more than all that. 272 00:13:27,763 --> 00:13:29,721 Heck, I'll even come help people with their edits 273 00:13:29,809 --> 00:13:32,333 if you need me to. I mean... 274 00:13:33,595 --> 00:13:36,293 Please, I-I'm begging you. 275 00:13:36,380 --> 00:13:39,340 T-this'd be a dream come true, and it's my only Christmas wish. 276 00:13:39,427 --> 00:13:41,733 I'll think about it, all right? 277 00:13:41,864 --> 00:13:42,952 So that means you have a spot? 278 00:13:43,083 --> 00:13:44,954 I might have a spot. 279 00:13:45,085 --> 00:13:49,567 Right. Okay. Thank you, really. 280 00:13:49,654 --> 00:13:52,788 Well, okay. Buh-bye. 281 00:13:52,875 --> 00:13:53,963 - I'm gonna leave. Yeah, okay, buh-bye. 282 00:13:54,050 --> 00:13:56,009 See you, man. 283 00:15:08,690 --> 00:15:11,693 - Hey, hey! - Oh, Mitchy! 284 00:15:14,696 --> 00:15:17,307 You always have this, like, Hollywood glow about you. 285 00:15:17,394 --> 00:15:19,527 - How do I get some of that? - Oh, stop. 286 00:15:19,657 --> 00:15:21,268 The only thing glowing is the shimmer in my foundation, 287 00:15:21,398 --> 00:15:24,880 which trust me, is hiding all the bags 288 00:15:25,011 --> 00:15:26,795 that I'm rocking under my... 289 00:15:26,926 --> 00:15:28,753 Oh, please. 290 00:15:28,840 --> 00:15:31,582 Give me all of that glow, because you are a goddess. 291 00:15:31,669 --> 00:15:34,498 Okay, okay, coming from your handsome, flawless face? 292 00:15:34,585 --> 00:15:36,239 - I'll take it. - And I'm gonna take that. 293 00:15:36,326 --> 00:15:38,415 Oh, thank you. 294 00:15:38,502 --> 00:15:40,852 So you excited? 295 00:15:40,940 --> 00:15:42,767 Are you kidding me? I am thrilled! 296 00:15:42,854 --> 00:15:45,379 And thank you, by the way, for reviving the retreat, 297 00:15:45,466 --> 00:15:47,337 for letting me join. 298 00:15:47,424 --> 00:15:48,730 Your mom would be so proud of you. 299 00:15:48,817 --> 00:15:50,166 Well, I hope so. 300 00:15:50,297 --> 00:15:52,908 I hope that this retreat can do her 301 00:15:52,995 --> 00:15:54,692 the slightest bit of justice. 302 00:15:54,823 --> 00:15:57,347 Uh, but, hey, you need to let me pay for joining. 303 00:15:57,478 --> 00:15:58,392 I'm not even an accomplished writer like the others are. 304 00:15:58,479 --> 00:16:00,176 I'm not gonna have anything to contribute. 305 00:16:00,263 --> 00:16:04,050 Accomplishment and contributions are relative, Mitchy. 306 00:16:04,180 --> 00:16:09,229 You are a brilliant undiscovered writer. No. 307 00:16:09,359 --> 00:16:11,796 And this whole retreat 308 00:16:11,927 --> 00:16:14,190 is in the gift of the season of giving, 309 00:16:14,277 --> 00:16:19,848 so it is free of charge to all of our guests, 310 00:16:19,935 --> 00:16:22,416 just the way that my mom started it. 311 00:16:22,503 --> 00:16:23,069 Well, I'm still gonna take your bag up to your room 312 00:16:23,199 --> 00:16:25,593 because I've got a job to do. 313 00:16:25,680 --> 00:16:28,465 Okay. Thank you. 314 00:16:28,552 --> 00:16:31,816 Oh, it is so good to be home! 315 00:16:31,903 --> 00:16:33,209 Oh, and something smells so good. 316 00:16:33,296 --> 00:16:37,300 If that is my dad's turkey po' boys, I am gonna flip! 317 00:16:37,387 --> 00:16:39,085 Come on! Dad! 318 00:16:47,049 --> 00:16:49,704 So, what do you think? 319 00:16:49,834 --> 00:16:52,576 Dad, you cannot make these again. 320 00:16:52,707 --> 00:16:55,014 I mean, I want you to, but you just can't. 321 00:16:55,101 --> 00:16:56,232 I'll make the healthy stuff for your guests, too, 322 00:16:56,363 --> 00:16:59,757 but I had to have your fave for your arrival. 323 00:16:59,844 --> 00:17:01,629 Not my fault you didn't come home Turkey Day. 324 00:17:01,716 --> 00:17:04,023 Oh, I'm sorry. 325 00:17:04,153 --> 00:17:05,850 You know, coming up with an ending 326 00:17:05,937 --> 00:17:08,418 put a ton of pressure on me. 327 00:17:08,549 --> 00:17:10,638 My editor said that if I don't finish soon, 328 00:17:10,768 --> 00:17:11,900 she's gonna drop me. 329 00:17:11,987 --> 00:17:14,946 So what? You haven't found the proper ending. 330 00:17:15,077 --> 00:17:16,818 Your fans want it to be perfect, don't they? 331 00:17:16,948 --> 00:17:19,473 Yeah, I know, but at this point 332 00:17:19,560 --> 00:17:21,040 I'm just not sure I'm gonna be able to find 333 00:17:21,170 --> 00:17:24,086 the happy ending everyone's looking for. 334 00:17:24,173 --> 00:17:26,001 Well, you know what your mom used to say. 335 00:17:27,742 --> 00:17:30,484 "Find your story in magic moments." 336 00:17:30,571 --> 00:17:31,398 Right. 337 00:17:32,921 --> 00:17:35,837 Yeah, well... 338 00:17:35,967 --> 00:17:39,188 I just haven't had a lot of those in a while, you know? 339 00:17:39,275 --> 00:17:42,583 Maybe that's why you're here. 340 00:17:42,670 --> 00:17:44,324 Oh, don't think I haven't thought about 341 00:17:44,454 --> 00:17:46,326 my daybed book corner. 342 00:17:46,456 --> 00:17:50,417 I plan on taking full advantage, just like in school. 343 00:17:50,547 --> 00:17:53,550 Good. Now how about real life? 344 00:17:53,637 --> 00:17:56,031 You're not seeing anyone, are you? 345 00:17:56,162 --> 00:17:58,033 I don't know, dad. Are you? 346 00:17:58,164 --> 00:18:00,905 Fine. Let's not talk about it. 347 00:18:12,917 --> 00:18:15,224 Thank you so much, and happy holidays! 348 00:18:21,187 --> 00:18:23,276 I'd like to get signed, please. 349 00:18:24,842 --> 00:18:26,714 No? I can't get signed? 350 00:18:26,844 --> 00:18:28,150 What are you doing here, Levi? 351 00:18:28,237 --> 00:18:30,674 I told you. I came to get signed. 352 00:18:30,805 --> 00:18:32,981 You said you haven't even read one of my books. 353 00:18:33,068 --> 00:18:34,678 Now's a good a time as any to start, right? I mean... 354 00:18:34,809 --> 00:18:36,550 I've got nothing better going on. 355 00:18:36,637 --> 00:18:38,204 This is the fourth in the series. 356 00:18:38,334 --> 00:18:39,379 And it's a year old, and by now you should be 357 00:18:39,466 --> 00:18:42,773 having a new book signing, yet here we are. 358 00:18:42,904 --> 00:18:45,254 - I mean, who's counting? - Okay. 359 00:18:45,341 --> 00:18:46,255 And what would you like it to say? 360 00:18:46,342 --> 00:18:52,174 - Dear Levi, Merry Christmas. - Mm-hmm. Mm-hmm. 361 00:18:52,261 --> 00:18:54,655 And since you jingled all the way here, 362 00:18:54,785 --> 00:18:56,352 you are now invited to my retreat. 363 00:18:56,439 --> 00:18:59,312 Oh, but that would be a disingenuous signing. 364 00:18:59,442 --> 00:19:03,925 Well, let's make it ingenuous. 365 00:19:04,012 --> 00:19:04,969 Okay, then... 366 00:19:08,582 --> 00:19:11,498 Dear Levi, Merry Christmas. 367 00:19:11,628 --> 00:19:13,587 And since you jingled all the way here, 368 00:19:13,674 --> 00:19:16,285 on your way out, don't let the door hit you on your rear. 369 00:19:16,372 --> 00:19:18,331 Mikaela. 370 00:19:20,811 --> 00:19:21,595 Next! 371 00:19:25,903 --> 00:19:27,601 Hi! Which one would you like? 372 00:19:27,688 --> 00:19:29,168 Oh, wonderful. 373 00:19:47,969 --> 00:19:48,752 Do you really think that reading my book 374 00:19:48,883 --> 00:19:51,538 is gonna get you a spot on the retreat? 375 00:19:51,625 --> 00:19:55,106 You know, I hear fans are hoping for her to end up with Ben, 376 00:19:55,194 --> 00:19:57,283 this guy she's on and off again with. 377 00:19:57,370 --> 00:20:00,155 But he's clearly wrong for her. 378 00:20:00,242 --> 00:20:01,287 - Wow. - See. 379 00:20:01,374 --> 00:20:03,289 You really are a fast reader. 380 00:20:03,376 --> 00:20:04,290 Aren't all writers fast readers? 381 00:20:04,420 --> 00:20:06,379 - I'm not. - Oh. 382 00:20:06,509 --> 00:20:09,338 See, I'm learning so much already. 383 00:20:12,036 --> 00:20:14,604 You are very lucky that I never filled that last spot 384 00:20:14,691 --> 00:20:19,914 and I am feeling filled with the holiday spirit today. 385 00:20:20,044 --> 00:20:21,481 W-wait. D-does that mean I'm in? 386 00:20:21,568 --> 00:20:25,180 Let's just call it a trial phase in the event 387 00:20:25,311 --> 00:20:28,966 that I don't find out you're crazy in the next day. 388 00:20:29,053 --> 00:20:31,012 Sweet! That'll do just fine for me. 389 00:20:31,099 --> 00:20:33,232 So! Whoa, where are we headed? 390 00:20:35,364 --> 00:20:36,539 Don't you need to go home, pack? 391 00:20:36,626 --> 00:20:39,412 It's two days before the retreat. 392 00:20:39,542 --> 00:20:43,807 Nope. I brought all my stuff with me. I'm ready to rock. 393 00:20:43,938 --> 00:20:47,942 Ugh. Okay, well, I guess you can follow me. 394 00:20:51,902 --> 00:20:53,643 - Here you go. - Thank you. 395 00:20:53,730 --> 00:20:54,775 You're very welcome. Here, darling. 396 00:20:54,862 --> 00:20:56,646 - Thanks, dad. - Come on. 397 00:20:56,777 --> 00:21:00,041 So, Levi, um, you live in LA, too, right? 398 00:21:00,171 --> 00:21:01,782 Yes, sir. I'm on the East Side. 399 00:21:01,869 --> 00:21:03,087 - Silver Lake. - Silver Lake? 400 00:21:03,218 --> 00:21:05,481 Oh, Mikaela's just up the way in Toluca Lake, right? 401 00:21:05,612 --> 00:21:08,615 And, uh, what kind of writing do you do? 402 00:21:08,702 --> 00:21:10,660 Oh. I'm a yawn. 403 00:21:10,791 --> 00:21:11,574 - I write non-fiction. - You kidding? 404 00:21:11,661 --> 00:21:13,968 Back in school I wrote non-fiction. 405 00:21:14,098 --> 00:21:15,622 - He writes non-fiction. - Oh, wow. 406 00:21:15,709 --> 00:21:17,406 You ever do any true crime? 407 00:21:17,493 --> 00:21:19,452 No crimes here, except this cocoa. 408 00:21:20,583 --> 00:21:23,673 - He likes my cocoa. - Aww. 409 00:21:23,804 --> 00:21:25,545 I'd love to read your writing someday. 410 00:21:25,632 --> 00:21:28,330 - Of course. It'd be my pleasure. Fantastic. 411 00:21:31,768 --> 00:21:33,117 - Mm. - Don't touch that. 412 00:21:34,641 --> 00:21:36,425 Hickory-smoked ham. 413 00:21:36,512 --> 00:21:38,079 And a cranberry cornmeal dressing. 414 00:21:38,209 --> 00:21:40,037 - Mm... - That smells amazing! 415 00:21:40,168 --> 00:21:43,432 Feel free to park that right over here. 416 00:21:43,519 --> 00:21:46,479 And I wasn't expecting a full-on holiday menu this weekend. 417 00:21:46,566 --> 00:21:49,917 Oh, I love hosting. It was what I was born to do. 418 00:21:50,047 --> 00:21:52,963 And this casserole is proven to cure writer's block, right? 419 00:21:53,050 --> 00:21:56,837 Yes, it is. - Ah. So it is writer's block. 420 00:21:56,967 --> 00:21:58,795 That's why you haven't finished. 421 00:21:58,882 --> 00:22:01,145 Fine. Yes. That is why I am not done. 422 00:22:01,276 --> 00:22:03,844 I just don't know how it ends yet. 423 00:22:03,931 --> 00:22:07,804 Well, maybe ask Maya what she wants. 424 00:22:07,891 --> 00:22:11,634 - Ask Maya what she wants? - Yeah. You should talk to her. 425 00:22:13,593 --> 00:22:16,857 She's in my head, Levi. 426 00:22:16,987 --> 00:22:18,032 Exactly. 427 00:22:18,119 --> 00:22:22,384 So, uh, when do the other guests arrive? 428 00:22:22,471 --> 00:22:25,474 Uh, Keifer arrives tomorrow afternoon with Ms. Olsen, 429 00:22:25,561 --> 00:22:27,737 and the others arrive Monday morning. 430 00:22:27,868 --> 00:22:29,348 Wonderful. We will have the rooms ready. 431 00:22:29,435 --> 00:22:30,784 Thank you. Ugh. 432 00:22:30,871 --> 00:22:33,613 It is going to be an exciting week. 433 00:22:33,700 --> 00:22:36,355 - Dude. Ham, anyone? 434 00:22:50,543 --> 00:22:52,240 What do you want, Maya? 435 00:22:53,459 --> 00:22:54,373 What's next? 436 00:23:00,944 --> 00:23:02,816 - How's the food? - It's good. 437 00:23:02,903 --> 00:23:04,905 Great. Good morning. 438 00:23:05,035 --> 00:23:06,515 - Morning! - Want some breakfast? 439 00:23:06,602 --> 00:23:08,735 Oh, I am still stuffed from last night's feast, 440 00:23:08,822 --> 00:23:11,172 but I will take this coffee. 441 00:23:11,302 --> 00:23:13,130 - Oh, okay, where are you headed? - Oh, into town. 442 00:23:13,261 --> 00:23:14,784 I have to do some last-minute Christmas shopping 443 00:23:14,871 --> 00:23:16,873 before our guests arrive for tomorrow's retreat. 444 00:23:16,960 --> 00:23:18,527 I'm-I'm done here. I can take you. 445 00:23:18,614 --> 00:23:20,964 I kind of need a gift myself. 446 00:23:21,095 --> 00:23:23,489 All right, then. Uh, are you ready now? 447 00:23:23,576 --> 00:23:25,708 Sure. I just need to get my jacket. 448 00:23:25,795 --> 00:23:29,320 Irv, thank you for this yummy breakfast. 449 00:23:29,451 --> 00:23:30,757 - You got it. - Yeah. 450 00:23:34,587 --> 00:23:36,719 Did he just call you Irv? 451 00:23:36,806 --> 00:23:39,418 Uh, yeah. He just called me Irv. 452 00:23:41,420 --> 00:23:42,290 Oh, no. 453 00:23:47,295 --> 00:23:48,557 Shopping for a new boyfriend? 454 00:23:50,994 --> 00:23:53,344 Anyway, didn't you claim 455 00:23:53,432 --> 00:23:56,086 you knew I was single at my workshop? 456 00:23:56,217 --> 00:23:59,568 - Nah. Just a good guess. - Why? 457 00:23:59,655 --> 00:24:01,440 Well, I mean, the engagement you broke off 458 00:24:01,527 --> 00:24:04,312 with the basketball player was kind of a public affair. 459 00:24:04,399 --> 00:24:06,140 - That was a year and a half ago. - I know. 460 00:24:06,227 --> 00:24:07,533 Then you finished the book. 461 00:24:07,620 --> 00:24:09,665 It came out, and then you toured. 462 00:24:09,752 --> 00:24:13,016 Wow! You just know so much about my life, huh? 463 00:24:13,147 --> 00:24:14,017 I don't know why you two broke up. 464 00:24:14,104 --> 00:24:15,715 Good, because that doesn't concern you. 465 00:24:15,802 --> 00:24:19,066 Is that why Maya's still single? 466 00:24:19,153 --> 00:24:21,851 Is Ben sort of based on her ex? 467 00:24:21,938 --> 00:24:22,635 I already told you. 468 00:24:22,722 --> 00:24:27,553 Maya's not based on my life. 469 00:24:27,640 --> 00:24:30,947 So, what kind of chocolates did you get? 470 00:24:31,034 --> 00:24:33,559 They're not for me, they're farewell gifts 471 00:24:33,689 --> 00:24:35,865 for all of you writers at the end of the retreat. 472 00:24:35,952 --> 00:24:37,388 Yeah, but surely you got something 473 00:24:37,476 --> 00:24:38,868 you think someone would like, 474 00:24:38,955 --> 00:24:42,481 which means you probably like them, too. So what'd you get? 475 00:24:42,611 --> 00:24:44,526 Caramel pecan milk chocolates, 476 00:24:44,657 --> 00:24:47,007 dark chocolate peppermint bark, and-- 477 00:24:47,094 --> 00:24:50,532 - Cinnamon-spiced truffles. - How'd you know? 478 00:24:50,663 --> 00:24:51,751 Well, those are my favorites, too. 479 00:24:51,838 --> 00:24:55,450 Also, I heard you talking to the chocolatier. 480 00:24:55,537 --> 00:24:59,193 So, we finally agree on something. 481 00:24:59,280 --> 00:25:00,673 Wow. Who'd have thought? 482 00:25:00,760 --> 00:25:04,067 You know, I always knew I had good taste, 483 00:25:04,154 --> 00:25:06,896 but you just confirmed it, though. 484 00:25:06,983 --> 00:25:09,508 But I also just proved you wrong. 485 00:25:09,595 --> 00:25:11,858 - How so? - Maya doesn't like chocolate. 486 00:25:11,988 --> 00:25:15,775 And I do. So see? There you go. She's more of a candy girl. 487 00:25:15,905 --> 00:25:20,867 So, there goes your theory about me being her. 488 00:25:20,954 --> 00:25:23,304 All right, maybe. 489 00:25:23,391 --> 00:25:26,699 Or maybe Maya hasn't had good chocolate yet. 490 00:25:28,701 --> 00:25:32,356 Okay. Maybe. 491 00:25:34,794 --> 00:25:38,972 Anyway, all this talk about sweets has me hungry. 492 00:25:39,059 --> 00:25:43,324 Is there any good places around here for us to eat? 493 00:25:43,411 --> 00:25:45,108 I think I might know a place. 494 00:25:45,195 --> 00:25:47,720 - Hm. - Come on. Up and up we go. 495 00:25:56,076 --> 00:25:58,469 - Thank you. Thank you, man. 496 00:25:58,557 --> 00:26:00,689 Thanks. Mm. 497 00:26:03,387 --> 00:26:05,259 Thanks for the help with the gift. 498 00:26:05,389 --> 00:26:06,652 I am the worst shopper on Earth, 499 00:26:06,739 --> 00:26:09,655 and my grams has, well, everything. 500 00:26:09,742 --> 00:26:12,701 Well, it's nice of you to think of her. You close? 501 00:26:12,788 --> 00:26:14,747 Oh, yeah. She raised me, actually. 502 00:26:14,877 --> 00:26:18,446 My parents, well, they passed away 503 00:26:18,577 --> 00:26:20,448 when I was a freshman in high school. 504 00:26:20,535 --> 00:26:25,279 Oh. Wow. I'm... I'm so sorry. 505 00:26:25,366 --> 00:26:27,498 My grams was great, though. 506 00:26:27,629 --> 00:26:29,588 She let me get away with anything 507 00:26:29,718 --> 00:26:31,807 as long as I got good grades. 508 00:26:31,894 --> 00:26:34,157 She still says I'm the center of her universe. 509 00:26:34,288 --> 00:26:36,246 Oh, well, I can definitely see that. 510 00:26:36,377 --> 00:26:37,944 - She live in LA? 511 00:26:38,074 --> 00:26:41,469 Yup. Um, off of 3rd and Robertson. 512 00:26:41,556 --> 00:26:43,993 She's in this really fancy assisted-living situation. 513 00:26:44,080 --> 00:26:47,170 Has all these bridge-club friends. 514 00:26:47,301 --> 00:26:49,738 They're throwing a whole Christmas party. 515 00:26:49,825 --> 00:26:52,393 It's gonna be lit, and I'm not just talking about the lights. 516 00:26:52,480 --> 00:26:55,439 Sounds like a fun party. 517 00:26:55,526 --> 00:26:57,572 I had to forfeit all of mine 518 00:26:57,703 --> 00:27:00,444 because I need to focus on the book situation. 519 00:27:00,531 --> 00:27:04,361 Right. The situation. Hm. 520 00:27:04,448 --> 00:27:06,494 Season to be ♪ 521 00:27:06,581 --> 00:27:09,453 This chestnut soup, wow! 522 00:27:09,540 --> 00:27:11,891 It was my mother's favorite. 523 00:27:11,978 --> 00:27:16,809 Actually, this was her favorite restaurant up here, 524 00:27:16,896 --> 00:27:20,856 so I'm glad we got to come. 525 00:27:20,943 --> 00:27:25,208 Aww. I didn't realize. She ever do any writing here? 526 00:27:25,339 --> 00:27:29,778 Oh, yeah. In fact, this was her table. 527 00:27:32,346 --> 00:27:33,216 - What? - Yeah. 528 00:27:33,303 --> 00:27:36,611 - This is insanely surreal. - Yes. 529 00:27:36,698 --> 00:27:39,788 So you are, like, really a fan of my mother? 530 00:27:39,919 --> 00:27:42,878 - Mm. - Huh. Funny. 531 00:27:42,965 --> 00:27:46,316 You didn't strike me as the romantic-drama type. 532 00:27:46,403 --> 00:27:48,841 Well, your mother's books were so much more than that. 533 00:27:48,928 --> 00:27:52,975 It's like comfort food, 534 00:27:53,106 --> 00:27:55,282 but intensely profound. 535 00:27:55,412 --> 00:27:56,892 They just have, they just have a epic feel. 536 00:27:57,023 --> 00:28:02,158 I hope that I can be half as good as her one day. 537 00:28:02,245 --> 00:28:03,769 She was... 538 00:28:03,899 --> 00:28:07,033 She was the best. 539 00:28:07,120 --> 00:28:09,775 ♪ 'Tis the season ♪ 540 00:28:09,862 --> 00:28:14,605 Well, based on the reading I've done the last few days, 541 00:28:14,693 --> 00:28:17,696 I'd say you're not too far behind her. 542 00:28:28,532 --> 00:28:31,274 Good afternoon. You must be, um... 543 00:28:31,361 --> 00:28:33,624 Keifer. I'm Mikaela's assistant. 544 00:28:33,755 --> 00:28:35,104 Ah, Keifer, Mitchell. 545 00:28:35,235 --> 00:28:36,627 I usually fix things around here, 546 00:28:36,758 --> 00:28:38,673 but I think I've been promoted to greeter duty. 547 00:28:38,760 --> 00:28:41,415 Oh, well, seasons greetings, then. 548 00:28:43,460 --> 00:28:45,941 Look at this place! 549 00:28:46,028 --> 00:28:49,249 Be still my heart. 550 00:28:49,379 --> 00:28:51,599 Oh, I love the wilderness. 551 00:28:51,730 --> 00:28:55,211 Well, Mitchell, this is Ms. Olive Olsen. 552 00:28:55,342 --> 00:28:56,560 You might know her from her musicals. 553 00:28:56,647 --> 00:28:59,172 - Oh. Olive! 554 00:28:59,259 --> 00:29:01,740 It is so nice to finally meet, meet you. 555 00:29:01,827 --> 00:29:02,871 I am a, a big fan of your work. 556 00:29:02,958 --> 00:29:06,527 - Oh, well, likewise. - Yeah. 557 00:29:06,614 --> 00:29:10,226 Your books are top tier, and that's why we're here. 558 00:29:10,313 --> 00:29:12,446 - And you are? 559 00:29:12,576 --> 00:29:14,013 - Hi. Levi McGuire. Oh. - Hi. 560 00:29:14,100 --> 00:29:18,104 Non-fiction writer in fictional recovery. 561 00:29:18,191 --> 00:29:21,237 Oh, but funny. 562 00:29:21,368 --> 00:29:23,849 - So, who'd like some tea? - Me! 563 00:29:23,979 --> 00:29:27,591 Oh, well, only if we can spill the tea at tea-time. 564 00:29:27,678 --> 00:29:29,811 All right. Well, let's see what we can do. 565 00:29:29,898 --> 00:29:32,553 - Right. 566 00:29:32,640 --> 00:29:32,901 Thank you. Yeah. 567 00:29:32,988 --> 00:29:34,860 Whoa. 568 00:29:36,862 --> 00:29:40,082 Wow! And you chose her over me? 569 00:29:40,169 --> 00:29:42,868 Maybe you'll learn a thing or two. 570 00:29:44,565 --> 00:29:47,437 So, Mikaela, I almost forgot to ask. 571 00:29:47,568 --> 00:29:50,745 How is the book coming along, then? 572 00:29:50,876 --> 00:29:54,575 Mm. Probably not the best question for the dinner table. 573 00:29:54,705 --> 00:29:56,055 Or any other table. 574 00:29:56,142 --> 00:29:58,405 Actually, it's fine, 575 00:29:58,492 --> 00:30:01,364 because last night 576 00:30:01,451 --> 00:30:03,105 I started working on the second half of my book. 577 00:30:03,236 --> 00:30:08,937 I mean, I don't know where it's going, but it's going. 578 00:30:09,068 --> 00:30:10,591 - Aww, Mik, that's great news! 579 00:30:10,678 --> 00:30:13,724 Yeah. Please, do tell us more. 580 00:30:13,855 --> 00:30:15,291 And please tell me she ends up with that 581 00:30:15,422 --> 00:30:17,467 sweet hunk of a doctor, Ben. 582 00:30:17,554 --> 00:30:19,905 Mm, I'm not so sure she will. 583 00:30:21,384 --> 00:30:23,822 Oh. Okay. Well, uh... 584 00:30:23,952 --> 00:30:28,478 I guess not every book needs a happy ending, does it? 585 00:30:28,609 --> 00:30:31,394 Or maybe the ending will be happy 586 00:30:31,481 --> 00:30:33,396 and happiness is just perspective. 587 00:30:33,527 --> 00:30:35,921 That's silly. 588 00:30:36,008 --> 00:30:38,575 If not Ben, then who does she fall in love with? 589 00:30:38,662 --> 00:30:39,402 Does she need to find love in the end? 590 00:30:39,533 --> 00:30:42,492 - Is that like a requirement? - No. 591 00:30:42,579 --> 00:30:46,192 But I guess if it's just left open-ended, 592 00:30:46,279 --> 00:30:49,586 we can all just assume it's Ben, right? 593 00:30:49,673 --> 00:30:51,545 Like a kinda choose- your-own-adventure ending? 594 00:30:54,722 --> 00:30:57,159 Well, cheers, to choosing your adventure! 595 00:30:57,290 --> 00:30:59,640 - Cheers. - Cheers. 596 00:30:59,727 --> 00:31:02,077 There you go. Oh, didn't get ya. 597 00:31:02,164 --> 00:31:03,035 Oh. 598 00:31:09,737 --> 00:31:11,870 And as Maya pulled in past the dilapidated 599 00:31:12,000 --> 00:31:14,307 welcome sign to her quaint little hometown again 600 00:31:14,394 --> 00:31:16,613 for the first time in over ten years, 601 00:31:16,700 --> 00:31:18,964 she pulled on to the shoulder of the road 602 00:31:19,051 --> 00:31:21,009 and climbed out into the falling snowflakes, 603 00:31:21,140 --> 00:31:23,925 glistening all around her 604 00:31:24,012 --> 00:31:27,624 like a thousand tiny memories of her childhood. 605 00:31:27,755 --> 00:31:30,236 Then she spun around, welcoming them in 606 00:31:30,366 --> 00:31:32,760 to rain and melt upon her open arms. 607 00:31:44,076 --> 00:31:46,034 Good morning and welcome, Sharon. 608 00:31:46,121 --> 00:31:48,689 It is so wonderful to have you here. 609 00:31:48,776 --> 00:31:52,345 And my dad is a huge fan of your cookbooks, 610 00:31:52,432 --> 00:31:53,259 so it is lovely to have you. 611 00:31:53,346 --> 00:31:55,174 Well, thank you for having me here. 612 00:31:55,304 --> 00:31:57,045 And you know what, I happen to be a huge fan 613 00:31:57,132 --> 00:31:59,395 of your mother's work as well. 614 00:31:59,482 --> 00:32:01,223 I mean, this retreat, I mean, 615 00:32:01,310 --> 00:32:03,008 what an amazing legacy 616 00:32:03,138 --> 00:32:05,532 for her to leave such a beautiful black woman. 617 00:32:05,662 --> 00:32:07,926 And speaking of you, young lady, 618 00:32:08,056 --> 00:32:10,450 I am a huge fan of your work as well. 619 00:32:10,580 --> 00:32:11,712 I've read every one of your books, 620 00:32:11,842 --> 00:32:14,280 and I am particularly excited about this next one. 621 00:32:14,367 --> 00:32:18,284 Wow. Thank you. Coming from you, I'm, I'm flattered. 622 00:32:18,371 --> 00:32:19,633 - Oh. It's okay. - Oh. 623 00:32:19,763 --> 00:32:21,287 And this is my assistant, Keifer. 624 00:32:21,374 --> 00:32:22,810 And he will help you with your things. 625 00:32:22,897 --> 00:32:25,682 Hi, so nice to meet you. How was your drive up from San Diego? 626 00:32:25,813 --> 00:32:27,641 Nice to meet you, too, and thank you very much. 627 00:32:27,728 --> 00:32:29,948 Well, the drive, it was just beautiful. 628 00:32:30,035 --> 00:32:33,125 It has been such a long time since I've seen snow. 629 00:32:34,865 --> 00:32:36,693 Wow! My gracious! 630 00:32:36,780 --> 00:32:39,131 This place is even more magical than I imagined. 631 00:32:41,698 --> 00:32:43,700 - Here. - Here you go. 632 00:32:43,831 --> 00:32:46,877 - Yeah. 633 00:32:46,965 --> 00:32:49,706 Well, good morning, everyone. This is Sharon. 634 00:32:49,837 --> 00:32:52,492 Sharon, Olive, Levi, Mitchell, 635 00:32:52,622 --> 00:32:54,494 and, of course, my father, Irving. 636 00:32:54,624 --> 00:32:56,104 Ah. Thank you. Ah, welcome, guests! 637 00:32:56,191 --> 00:32:59,542 Uh, as most of you know, I will be your host 638 00:32:59,629 --> 00:33:02,458 for the next three days, so if there's anything that you need, 639 00:33:02,545 --> 00:33:04,678 please do not hesitate to ask 640 00:33:04,765 --> 00:33:09,335 unless it's what time Santa stops by Christmas Eve. 641 00:33:09,422 --> 00:33:12,164 That is top-secret information. 642 00:33:12,251 --> 00:33:15,254 He usually reserves that one for the visiting kids. 643 00:33:15,341 --> 00:33:19,171 As well as the adults, because we are never too old 644 00:33:19,258 --> 00:33:22,696 to believe in Santa and a little Christmas magic. 645 00:33:22,783 --> 00:33:25,003 - True, true. - Now, please have a seat. 646 00:33:25,133 --> 00:33:27,005 - Dig in and enjoy the food. - Wow. 647 00:33:27,135 --> 00:33:29,050 Oh, um, may I help you with your coat? 648 00:33:29,137 --> 00:33:31,531 Oh, thank you. - Of course. 649 00:33:31,661 --> 00:33:32,923 You know what, I really have to say that 650 00:33:33,011 --> 00:33:34,360 this cranberry baked oatmeal 651 00:33:34,447 --> 00:33:35,752 is really something special. 652 00:33:35,839 --> 00:33:40,844 Oh, thank you. Um, coming from you, that means everything. 653 00:33:40,931 --> 00:33:43,804 And, hey, if you give me the secret recipe of one of yours, 654 00:33:43,934 --> 00:33:47,112 I will definitely give you the secret recipe for that. 655 00:33:47,199 --> 00:33:48,896 Okay. All right, thank you. 656 00:33:48,983 --> 00:33:51,899 - You got yourself a deal. - Okay. 657 00:33:51,986 --> 00:33:55,033 Well, maybe we should start by introducing ourselves. 658 00:33:55,120 --> 00:33:58,079 Maybe everyone go around and share why they are here today. 659 00:33:58,210 --> 00:34:01,952 And, Sharon, would you like to go first? 660 00:34:02,040 --> 00:34:04,477 Oh. Uh, sure, okay. 661 00:34:04,564 --> 00:34:06,174 Hi. Sharon Samuels. 662 00:34:06,261 --> 00:34:10,178 My favorite thing to do is cook. 663 00:34:10,309 --> 00:34:13,312 Yes, my, my mother, she was this amazing Creole cook 664 00:34:13,399 --> 00:34:15,227 and she ran her own restaurant in New Orleans 665 00:34:15,314 --> 00:34:18,621 for most of her life, so naturally, 666 00:34:18,752 --> 00:34:20,232 I became quite the adventurous cook myself. 667 00:34:20,362 --> 00:34:24,062 Right, so I decided, you know, why not? 668 00:34:24,192 --> 00:34:28,153 Why not write our family's very first Creole Christmas cookbook? 669 00:34:28,283 --> 00:34:30,459 Right, and then, but then, then I thought, you know what, 670 00:34:30,590 --> 00:34:33,506 these recipes, they, they really need to embody 671 00:34:33,636 --> 00:34:36,378 the, the spirit of the season. 672 00:34:36,465 --> 00:34:39,381 So, here I am. 673 00:34:39,512 --> 00:34:40,469 - Wow. 674 00:34:40,556 --> 00:34:42,515 Ooh-ooh, me next, me next! 675 00:34:42,645 --> 00:34:45,779 I am here because I am still, 676 00:34:45,866 --> 00:34:49,826 still, uh, two songs short of my new musical, 677 00:34:49,913 --> 00:34:52,655 and I just really needed to escape the Hollywood 678 00:34:52,786 --> 00:34:56,050 holiday bustle, which I normally live for, 679 00:34:56,181 --> 00:34:59,053 um, to focus and finish it. 680 00:34:59,184 --> 00:35:01,403 Well, seems like you've come to the right place. 681 00:35:01,490 --> 00:35:02,187 I think I am. 682 00:35:02,317 --> 00:35:06,147 And now, um, Levi. 683 00:35:06,234 --> 00:35:08,367 Okay. I write non-fiction. 684 00:35:08,497 --> 00:35:13,807 I started in journalism. Sometimes political satire. 685 00:35:13,937 --> 00:35:17,637 Sometimes bios, edit. Copy edits. 686 00:35:17,724 --> 00:35:20,118 Boring things float my boat. 687 00:35:20,248 --> 00:35:21,641 - Yeah. Okay, great. 688 00:35:21,728 --> 00:35:24,600 And my little Mitchell. 689 00:35:24,731 --> 00:35:25,732 Hello, my name is Mitchell. 690 00:35:25,819 --> 00:35:28,126 I work here, so feel free to still call me 691 00:35:28,213 --> 00:35:30,911 when your hot water goes out, uh... 692 00:35:31,041 --> 00:35:33,218 Mikaela was so gracious for letting me join you guys 693 00:35:33,305 --> 00:35:35,655 as I am an aspiring screenwriter. 694 00:35:35,742 --> 00:35:38,048 I'm still working on my first script, 695 00:35:38,136 --> 00:35:40,703 uh, rewriting it and rewriting it and rewriting it, 696 00:35:40,834 --> 00:35:42,444 so I'm hoping with this retreat, it will help me finish it. 697 00:35:42,531 --> 00:35:45,273 Keifer, would you like to share something about yourself? 698 00:35:45,360 --> 00:35:47,319 Yes, I am also on the job as everyone knows, 699 00:35:47,449 --> 00:35:51,453 um, but I'm also stellar with creative development 700 00:35:51,540 --> 00:35:55,588 and planning to partake in the festivities. 701 00:35:55,675 --> 00:35:59,374 And I'm also here to help you guys hone your craft, so... 702 00:35:59,505 --> 00:36:01,463 Also I've worked in script development 703 00:36:01,594 --> 00:36:05,075 and I would really like to take a look at your script. 704 00:36:05,206 --> 00:36:08,557 Wow! Uh, can I think about it? 705 00:36:08,644 --> 00:36:10,777 - Sure. Yes. 706 00:36:10,907 --> 00:36:14,607 But let's remember what this retreat is about. 707 00:36:14,694 --> 00:36:17,566 You're here to bare your creative writing souls 708 00:36:17,653 --> 00:36:18,611 and get back to why you fell in love with writing 709 00:36:18,698 --> 00:36:23,137 in the first place, so, with that being said, 710 00:36:23,224 --> 00:36:26,662 at noon we will be meeting in the sunroom 711 00:36:26,793 --> 00:36:28,403 for our first retreat workshop. 712 00:36:28,490 --> 00:36:31,493 Okay, so do not forget to bring your journals. 713 00:36:31,624 --> 00:36:32,755 - Okay. - All right. Great. 714 00:36:40,415 --> 00:36:42,939 Gigi, hi, sorry I missed your call earlier. 715 00:36:43,070 --> 00:36:46,987 - We were having breakfast. - Well, hello. How's the retreat? 716 00:36:47,074 --> 00:36:49,946 -Uh, wait, how did you... I'm at your office. 717 00:36:50,033 --> 00:36:52,688 I was sitting at your computer, going through your inbox, duh. 718 00:36:52,775 --> 00:36:54,734 Look, I know it sounds crazy, 719 00:36:54,821 --> 00:36:57,563 but I've already started getting all new ideas 720 00:36:57,650 --> 00:36:58,955 since I've gotten here. 721 00:36:59,042 --> 00:37:00,609 Any ideas for a new editor? 722 00:37:00,740 --> 00:37:03,830 Because Sabrina is officially out, and I think that 723 00:37:03,917 --> 00:37:06,136 your publishing deal isn't too far behind her at this point. 724 00:37:06,224 --> 00:37:09,575 If Sabrina has to move on, I get it. 725 00:37:09,705 --> 00:37:11,707 But I really think that this retreat 726 00:37:11,838 --> 00:37:13,753 is going to be good for me. 727 00:37:13,840 --> 00:37:16,669 And I promise, I will have something 728 00:37:16,756 --> 00:37:18,061 for the publishers to look at soon. 729 00:37:18,192 --> 00:37:21,630 Fine, before the ball drops on my life and your career, 730 00:37:21,761 --> 00:37:24,764 come New Year's Eve, hm? I'm counting on you. 731 00:37:36,254 --> 00:37:38,081 Who here is ready for some of my creative cocoa? 732 00:37:38,168 --> 00:37:39,866 Guaranteed to ignite the imagination. 733 00:37:39,953 --> 00:37:41,433 - Wow! - That's nice. 734 00:37:41,563 --> 00:37:43,913 - Thank you. - Thank you. 735 00:37:44,000 --> 00:37:44,784 Excuse me, I'm gonna get lunch started. 736 00:37:44,914 --> 00:37:47,656 - Aww, thank you, dad. - All right. 737 00:37:47,743 --> 00:37:51,094 Wow! I'm feeling creative already. 738 00:37:51,181 --> 00:37:52,531 So are we ready to get started then? 739 00:37:52,618 --> 00:37:55,534 So what is our line-up of events, anyhow? 740 00:37:55,621 --> 00:37:59,189 Yes, so today we start 741 00:37:59,277 --> 00:38:02,149 with our Two Turtledove Tales 742 00:38:02,236 --> 00:38:04,151 and tomorrow will be 743 00:38:04,282 --> 00:38:08,155 our Prancer's Fireside Poetry Hour 744 00:38:08,286 --> 00:38:11,811 and on our last day we will have 745 00:38:11,898 --> 00:38:16,294 our Jack Frost's Frozen Freehand Writers' Challenge. 746 00:38:16,424 --> 00:38:19,819 Sounds like we got our work cut out for us. 747 00:38:19,906 --> 00:38:23,388 - I may need more cocoa. 748 00:38:23,518 --> 00:38:24,650 Don't worry, it won't be all work and no play 749 00:38:24,737 --> 00:38:28,480 because true to the season, we will be hosting 750 00:38:28,610 --> 00:38:32,135 our 'Twas The Treasure Hunt 751 00:38:32,222 --> 00:38:34,224 Before Christmas Event Wednesday night. 752 00:38:34,355 --> 00:38:36,662 Ooh! Exciting! I live for the hunt. 753 00:38:38,011 --> 00:38:42,624 Oh, and lastly, if you don't already have plans 754 00:38:42,711 --> 00:38:45,801 and you wanna stay for Christmas Eve, 755 00:38:45,888 --> 00:38:49,283 my dad makes a mean feast for Christmas Eve. 756 00:38:49,414 --> 00:38:51,111 So you are all welcome. 757 00:38:51,241 --> 00:38:53,548 - Yes! - That's very cool. 758 00:38:53,635 --> 00:38:56,508 Okay, so let's get started on our first workshop. 759 00:38:56,638 --> 00:38:58,858 Two Turtledove Tales is something we created 760 00:38:58,988 --> 00:39:00,468 to get that creative cocoa 761 00:39:00,555 --> 00:39:02,775 flowing freely for this retreat. 762 00:39:02,905 --> 00:39:04,994 I challenge each of you to write not one, 763 00:39:05,081 --> 00:39:07,475 but two short stories, 764 00:39:07,606 --> 00:39:10,173 about two characters in the same scenario. 765 00:39:10,260 --> 00:39:13,481 It can be any genre, but each story will be told 766 00:39:13,568 --> 00:39:15,962 from each character's perspective. 767 00:39:16,049 --> 00:39:18,965 Can be first or third-person narratives, doesn't matter. 768 00:39:19,095 --> 00:39:21,707 What does matter is that we're able to see 769 00:39:21,837 --> 00:39:22,664 two versions of one story 770 00:39:22,795 --> 00:39:25,885 through two very different lenses. 771 00:39:25,972 --> 00:39:27,365 ♪ Alone ♪ 772 00:39:28,975 --> 00:39:29,889 ♪ I hope you know ♪ 773 00:39:30,019 --> 00:39:35,460 ♪ I've been counting down days ♪ 774 00:39:35,590 --> 00:39:41,466 ♪ Till you're in my arms and I'm home ♪ 775 00:39:41,596 --> 00:39:43,163 ♪ Yeah I'm getting all the presents ♪ 776 00:39:43,293 --> 00:39:44,991 ♪ Rudolph will be jealous ♪ 777 00:39:45,121 --> 00:39:48,168 ♪ Lighting the tree and we can dance ♪ 778 00:39:48,255 --> 00:39:51,084 ♪ Kiss you in the moonlight holding you so tight ♪ 779 00:39:51,171 --> 00:39:55,349 ♪ Yeah I'm comin' home tonight ♪ 780 00:39:55,436 --> 00:39:58,526 ♪ I'm gonna be with you for Christmas ♪ 781 00:39:58,613 --> 00:40:01,399 ♪ Ain't no way I'm gonna miss this ♪ 782 00:40:01,529 --> 00:40:03,792 ♪ Baby wait up for me ♪ 783 00:40:03,879 --> 00:40:07,622 ♪ Wait up for me me ♪ 784 00:40:07,753 --> 00:40:10,538 ♪ I'm gonna be with you for Christmas ♪ 785 00:40:10,625 --> 00:40:13,933 ♪ You're at the top of my wish list ♪ 786 00:40:14,020 --> 00:40:17,197 ♪ Baby wait up for me ♪ Wait up for me ♪ 787 00:40:17,327 --> 00:40:20,592 Hey! Figured I shouldn't eat all our chocolate alone. 788 00:40:20,722 --> 00:40:23,682 Did I catch you mid-sentence? 789 00:40:23,769 --> 00:40:28,164 Thank you. You caught me at the end of a paragraph. 790 00:40:28,295 --> 00:40:30,602 Impeccable timing. 791 00:40:30,689 --> 00:40:33,213 So are you done with your story or what? 792 00:40:33,300 --> 00:40:35,694 Actually, I had to fake a break. 793 00:40:35,781 --> 00:40:38,523 Olive wanted to swap stories, and I think it was 794 00:40:38,653 --> 00:40:41,395 just an excuse to sit next to me, I-I think. 795 00:40:41,526 --> 00:40:44,703 Well, she is a beautiful, smart, strong woman. 796 00:40:44,790 --> 00:40:47,401 Take it as a compliment. 797 00:40:47,532 --> 00:40:49,838 Only problem is, between us, 798 00:40:49,969 --> 00:40:52,275 I am, sadly, not a fan of musicals. 799 00:40:52,362 --> 00:40:55,235 Ah. Mm. Oh. 800 00:40:55,322 --> 00:40:57,411 Sunken before you even set sail? 801 00:40:57,542 --> 00:41:00,109 And also story of my life in relationships, actually. 802 00:41:00,240 --> 00:41:03,199 Let me guess, you're the kind of guy who falls for women 803 00:41:03,330 --> 00:41:04,723 who want more from you than you're ready to give. 804 00:41:04,810 --> 00:41:07,639 N-nah, I actually fall for women 805 00:41:07,769 --> 00:41:12,382 whose emotions are awake, yet unavailable. 806 00:41:12,513 --> 00:41:14,559 So when was your last sunken ship? 807 00:41:14,646 --> 00:41:18,432 Last date? Ever so occasionally. 808 00:41:18,563 --> 00:41:19,825 Last relationship? 809 00:41:19,955 --> 00:41:21,827 - Five years ago. - Yikes. 810 00:41:21,957 --> 00:41:26,309 Ended so badly that it warranted a half decade worth of repairs. 811 00:41:26,396 --> 00:41:29,922 But even that one never met my grams. 812 00:41:30,052 --> 00:41:32,620 Oh, well, maybe she should have met your grams 813 00:41:32,707 --> 00:41:34,143 'cause then she would've told you that 814 00:41:34,230 --> 00:41:36,276 she was all wrong for you, you think? 815 00:41:36,363 --> 00:41:39,497 Touche. You could be right. 816 00:41:39,584 --> 00:41:42,369 All right, I spilled my heart to you. 817 00:41:43,370 --> 00:41:45,503 Your turn. 818 00:41:45,590 --> 00:41:49,332 - My turn to what? - You gotta tell me. 819 00:41:49,419 --> 00:41:53,554 Why the break-up with the tall hunky, B-ball boy? 820 00:41:53,685 --> 00:41:55,295 He loved me when things were good. 821 00:41:56,992 --> 00:41:57,732 Like, a lot. 822 00:41:57,819 --> 00:42:00,692 And things were good 823 00:42:00,779 --> 00:42:05,044 until my mother passed. 824 00:42:05,131 --> 00:42:07,873 And he just, he just couldn't handle me at my worst. 825 00:42:08,003 --> 00:42:08,830 Well, I guess it's better to know now 826 00:42:08,917 --> 00:42:12,834 than ten years down the line, huh? 827 00:42:12,921 --> 00:42:16,229 Because if he can't handle the first worst moment, 828 00:42:16,316 --> 00:42:20,233 then what about the rest? 'Cause life's full of those roadblocks. 829 00:42:20,320 --> 00:42:22,409 Yeah. Well, I thought the same thing. 830 00:42:22,496 --> 00:42:24,672 That's why I ended it. 831 00:42:24,759 --> 00:42:27,066 - I just need someone that-- - Gets it? 832 00:42:35,596 --> 00:42:38,556 Ooh. Ah. 833 00:42:38,643 --> 00:42:41,515 So how's your two turtledove tales coming along then? 834 00:42:41,646 --> 00:42:43,430 - My turtledove tales? - Uh-huh. 835 00:42:43,517 --> 00:42:45,563 I am in the middle of finishing my book, 836 00:42:45,650 --> 00:42:46,781 or trying to, at least. 837 00:42:46,912 --> 00:42:52,526 And Maya is finally headed towards the finish line, 838 00:42:52,657 --> 00:42:54,920 just not sure where she is headed exactly. 839 00:42:55,007 --> 00:42:59,054 Mm, what is she doing at the moment? 840 00:42:59,141 --> 00:43:01,361 - I'm not telling. - Oh, come on. Tell me. 841 00:43:01,491 --> 00:43:05,104 Ugh, fine. 842 00:43:05,234 --> 00:43:06,366 She's headed home for the holidays. 843 00:43:06,496 --> 00:43:09,064 Oh, not unlike her author, huh, 844 00:43:09,151 --> 00:43:10,849 who is nothing like her whatsoever. 845 00:43:12,285 --> 00:43:15,070 Okay, fine, yes, of course! 846 00:43:15,157 --> 00:43:17,333 There are parallels, of course, 847 00:43:17,420 --> 00:43:22,121 but mostly it's because it was time for her to come home. 848 00:43:22,251 --> 00:43:26,342 She had talked about it way too much. 849 00:43:26,429 --> 00:43:29,432 You know, I am currently reading the digital version 850 00:43:29,519 --> 00:43:31,913 of the first book now, and I gotta say, 851 00:43:32,000 --> 00:43:35,700 what happened to that Jerome guy? 852 00:43:35,787 --> 00:43:39,007 That civil attorney who she always fights with. 853 00:43:39,094 --> 00:43:42,141 Jerome? Oh, yeah. - Mm-hmm. 854 00:43:42,228 --> 00:43:44,578 Yeah, he was in and out of the first three books, 855 00:43:44,665 --> 00:43:47,189 but when she started working in divorce, 856 00:43:47,276 --> 00:43:49,757 there just wasn't much of a need for him anymore. 857 00:43:49,844 --> 00:43:50,889 Too bad, 'cause I liked her for him. 858 00:43:50,976 --> 00:43:54,240 Wondering what he's doing lately. 859 00:43:54,327 --> 00:43:55,371 No idea. 860 00:43:55,458 --> 00:43:58,679 And I'm not sure I like him for her. 861 00:43:58,766 --> 00:44:02,422 - Oh. - But maybe I'll ask him. Hm. 862 00:44:05,164 --> 00:44:06,818 - Okay. 863 00:44:11,736 --> 00:44:14,739 There it is. Yup. 864 00:44:14,826 --> 00:44:17,263 - Oh, hey. - Wow! What is all this? 865 00:44:17,350 --> 00:44:20,483 This is my dark chocolate Chex Mix. 866 00:44:20,570 --> 00:44:21,441 Wouldn't have got chocolates in town 867 00:44:21,528 --> 00:44:22,747 had we known you were baking. 868 00:44:22,834 --> 00:44:24,183 Oh, well, this is for all 869 00:44:24,270 --> 00:44:25,271 the kids down at the theater 870 00:44:25,401 --> 00:44:26,576 doing a dress rehearsal 871 00:44:26,664 --> 00:44:28,535 for A Christmas Carol. 872 00:44:28,622 --> 00:44:30,798 - You have to try these, though. - Oh, yes. 873 00:44:32,539 --> 00:44:33,671 There you go. 874 00:44:40,329 --> 00:44:41,461 - Well? Yeah? - Mm-hmm. 875 00:44:41,591 --> 00:44:44,072 This is dangerous. 876 00:44:44,159 --> 00:44:46,901 His entire menu is. Uh, can we help? 877 00:44:46,988 --> 00:44:48,860 Yeah, let's put this in some bags. 878 00:44:48,947 --> 00:44:51,210 Ugh. 879 00:44:54,779 --> 00:44:55,910 I always knew we were gonna have another great writer 880 00:44:56,041 --> 00:44:59,131 in the family just like her mother, 881 00:44:59,261 --> 00:44:59,958 even when she was a kid. 882 00:45:00,045 --> 00:45:02,961 - How'd you know? - Well... 883 00:45:03,048 --> 00:45:06,704 She used to sneak into her mother's office, late at night, 884 00:45:06,791 --> 00:45:09,707 and not only read the books she was too young to read, 885 00:45:09,794 --> 00:45:11,273 but she'd also read her mother's book. 886 00:45:11,360 --> 00:45:14,146 And back then Tanya was still typing her books out 887 00:45:14,276 --> 00:45:16,235 on an old-school typewriter, and she kept the pages 888 00:45:16,365 --> 00:45:18,541 in a thick folder on the desk. 889 00:45:18,672 --> 00:45:22,807 But we knew she was sneaking in because in the morning, 890 00:45:22,894 --> 00:45:27,028 some of the pages had a little fold on them, not so subtle. 891 00:45:27,115 --> 00:45:30,379 I thought I was being surreptitious. 892 00:45:30,510 --> 00:45:34,514 - Sadly, you still think you are. So what about you? 893 00:45:34,644 --> 00:45:38,257 When did you know you were gonna be a writer? 894 00:45:38,344 --> 00:45:41,390 Actually, it was in third grade when we lost our family dog. 895 00:45:41,521 --> 00:45:45,525 Hm, Jessie. I was crushed. 896 00:45:45,612 --> 00:45:47,483 We had a writing assignment and I had to write a eulogy 897 00:45:47,570 --> 00:45:50,095 for the dog, a long, emotional one 898 00:45:50,225 --> 00:45:51,487 about her life and her legacy. 899 00:45:51,574 --> 00:45:56,014 So, my third-grade teacher called my parents and said, 900 00:45:56,144 --> 00:46:00,279 "This kid needs to write. This is his calling." 901 00:46:00,366 --> 00:46:03,630 So my parents, they got me this box-looking word processor, 902 00:46:03,717 --> 00:46:06,154 and I just started writing everything. Well... 903 00:46:06,241 --> 00:46:09,462 I still got that story of Jessie somewhere, though. 904 00:46:09,549 --> 00:46:12,987 Well, I would pay good money to read that story now. 905 00:46:13,074 --> 00:46:15,773 Oh, I'm sorry, I didn't notice. Is it 4:00 already? 906 00:46:15,860 --> 00:46:20,952 I have to go and start dinner for the rest of the crew. 907 00:46:21,039 --> 00:46:23,781 Well, I can go into town and drop these off for you. 908 00:46:23,911 --> 00:46:26,566 Could you do that for me? It's not gonna interrupt you, is it? 909 00:46:26,696 --> 00:46:29,482 - No, no, no. We'd be happy to. Thank you. 910 00:46:29,569 --> 00:46:31,876 Uh, don't you have a story to finish? 911 00:46:32,006 --> 00:46:34,574 Oh, I'm-I'm as fast of a writer as I am a reader. 912 00:46:37,490 --> 00:46:38,796 - All right. Thank you. All right. 913 00:46:48,457 --> 00:46:50,503 - Can you get the door? - I got it. 914 00:46:52,374 --> 00:46:53,462 Oh. 915 00:46:53,593 --> 00:46:55,116 Let's try the other side. Yeah. 916 00:46:56,074 --> 00:47:00,165 - Oh. - Oh, no! My book! 917 00:47:00,252 --> 00:47:01,166 Oh, no. Oh, no. 918 00:47:01,296 --> 00:47:04,822 I can't believe they flew so far. 919 00:47:04,909 --> 00:47:08,042 Sheesh! Why do you still print your pages? 920 00:47:08,173 --> 00:47:10,479 Seems a little outdated, doesn't it? 921 00:47:10,566 --> 00:47:12,264 Hey, I use 100% 922 00:47:12,351 --> 00:47:17,704 post-consumer recycled paper, chlorine-free, okay, buddy? 923 00:47:17,791 --> 00:47:20,054 Yeah, I just, just don't see the need for it. 924 00:47:20,141 --> 00:47:22,970 I don't know, it-it's just something romantic, 925 00:47:23,057 --> 00:47:25,538 you know, having a hard copy, and I can easily skim through it 926 00:47:25,625 --> 00:47:27,409 and make changes and notes. 927 00:47:27,540 --> 00:47:30,935 Maybe it reminds me of when my mom 928 00:47:31,022 --> 00:47:33,372 would write her books and I would sneak in and read them. 929 00:47:33,459 --> 00:47:35,635 Guess that's a good reason, you know? 930 00:47:35,722 --> 00:47:38,159 I'm jealous of the relationship you have with your parents. 931 00:47:39,552 --> 00:47:40,596 And the whole writing thing... 932 00:47:40,683 --> 00:47:42,772 My grandpa, he didn't want me to be a writer. 933 00:47:42,860 --> 00:47:44,818 He said it wasn't practical. 934 00:47:44,905 --> 00:47:46,733 Yeah, well, that's not uncommon. 935 00:47:46,864 --> 00:47:48,996 I hear that a lot at writers' workshops. 936 00:47:49,083 --> 00:47:52,695 And to be honest, you know, some, uh, writers 937 00:47:52,826 --> 00:47:57,483 could use their parents' advice, but you, you're a great writer. 938 00:47:57,570 --> 00:47:59,398 - Thank you. - Well... 939 00:47:59,485 --> 00:48:03,358 You know, this was my mom's favorite spot 940 00:48:03,489 --> 00:48:07,232 to write on the property. Her own little secret garden. 941 00:48:07,319 --> 00:48:10,539 - It's beautiful. Yeah. 942 00:48:10,626 --> 00:48:12,106 When I was little, she used to say 943 00:48:12,237 --> 00:48:15,240 that if you listened closely enough, 944 00:48:15,370 --> 00:48:20,332 you can hear the little woodland creatures and fairies, 945 00:48:20,462 --> 00:48:23,117 and they will give you magical ideas for free. 946 00:48:23,204 --> 00:48:26,599 And so I would be out here 947 00:48:26,729 --> 00:48:29,602 waiting for hours, listening. 948 00:48:29,689 --> 00:48:32,910 But sometimes, sometimes 949 00:48:32,997 --> 00:48:35,825 I thought I could hear them. 950 00:48:35,913 --> 00:48:38,306 Did she have, like, a place she sat? 951 00:48:38,393 --> 00:48:40,004 Oh, yeah, there's a rocking bench there 952 00:48:40,091 --> 00:48:42,963 and a little tea table there 953 00:48:43,050 --> 00:48:46,227 and a little bird feeder and water feeder there. 954 00:48:46,358 --> 00:48:48,664 - Yeah. - What happened to it? 955 00:48:48,795 --> 00:48:51,058 I don't know. I, I guess it just got old. 956 00:48:51,145 --> 00:48:53,495 - You know, my dad replaced it. - Hm. 957 00:48:53,582 --> 00:48:57,195 I, I think it hurt him to come out here, so... 958 00:48:57,325 --> 00:49:02,722 He prefers the lakeside where we spread her ashes. 959 00:49:02,809 --> 00:49:05,725 You know, it's crazy to think 960 00:49:05,855 --> 00:49:10,730 that fairies and woodland critters are responsible 961 00:49:10,860 --> 00:49:13,689 for the books we've come to love over the years. 962 00:49:13,776 --> 00:49:14,864 Hm. 963 00:49:14,995 --> 00:49:17,650 Yoo-hoo! Hello, you two! 964 00:49:20,392 --> 00:49:22,655 - Oh. Hm. - What? 965 00:49:22,742 --> 00:49:24,222 - What is up? - Uh, oh. 966 00:49:24,352 --> 00:49:28,617 Oh, this, my, my book just flew all over the place 967 00:49:28,748 --> 00:49:32,317 and-and he was helping me get it, and it was quite the ordeal. 968 00:49:32,447 --> 00:49:34,667 Well, I have to say, 969 00:49:34,754 --> 00:49:36,886 this is just such a cozy little 970 00:49:36,974 --> 00:49:39,150 cute snow-angel chalet out here. 971 00:49:39,280 --> 00:49:42,022 You know, I am just gonna slay 972 00:49:42,153 --> 00:49:45,156 those Prancer fireside poem vibes, okay? 973 00:49:45,243 --> 00:49:48,420 Oh? Uh, a-a-and did you two finish your short stories? 974 00:49:48,550 --> 00:49:52,380 I did. I did. Like a fox to your inbox. What? 975 00:49:52,467 --> 00:49:53,555 - Oh! Oh! - Oh! 976 00:49:53,686 --> 00:49:57,385 So, yeah, I was just gonna take a long walk. 977 00:49:57,516 --> 00:50:00,301 Uh, anybody, anybody, um, wanna join me? 978 00:50:00,388 --> 00:50:02,129 Oh, actually, we have to get a basket 979 00:50:02,260 --> 00:50:04,566 to the kids in town, so... 980 00:50:04,653 --> 00:50:06,699 - Oh. - We probably should get going. 981 00:50:06,786 --> 00:50:08,135 - Oh, yeah. - I'm-I'm... 982 00:50:08,222 --> 00:50:08,788 I'm gonna take the basket to the car. 983 00:50:08,918 --> 00:50:10,268 - Okay. - Where'd you leave it? 984 00:50:10,398 --> 00:50:12,009 - Oh, there. - Okay. 985 00:50:13,923 --> 00:50:14,881 Well... - Well... 986 00:50:14,968 --> 00:50:17,927 Actually... 987 00:50:18,015 --> 00:50:19,538 he is single, right? 988 00:50:20,669 --> 00:50:22,236 Uh... 989 00:50:22,367 --> 00:50:23,890 Tsk. Hm. 990 00:50:25,022 --> 00:50:26,023 Hm? 991 00:50:37,817 --> 00:50:41,299 Hm. Oh, my goodness, you are cooking with Creole tonight. 992 00:50:41,386 --> 00:50:43,040 You know, I could smell it all the way across the chalet. 993 00:50:43,127 --> 00:50:44,345 Yes, I am. 994 00:50:44,432 --> 00:50:47,957 - Did you finish your homework? - I did. 995 00:50:48,045 --> 00:50:50,656 And, yeah, I have to admit, I really enjoyed the assignment. 996 00:50:50,743 --> 00:50:52,049 It has been a long time since I've written 997 00:50:52,136 --> 00:50:54,790 anything fun and fictional. 998 00:50:54,877 --> 00:50:56,966 A toast to your imagination. 999 00:50:57,054 --> 00:50:58,881 May it never grow too old 1000 00:50:58,968 --> 00:51:01,623 for a little fun and a little bit of fiction. 1001 00:51:01,710 --> 00:51:05,627 Oh. Cheers. I like that. 1002 00:51:05,714 --> 00:51:07,977 Oh. Would you like to try some of this? 1003 00:51:08,108 --> 00:51:11,764 Mm. Absolutely. Yes, please, okay. 1004 00:51:11,894 --> 00:51:13,592 Okay. All right, here we go. 1005 00:51:16,595 --> 00:51:18,423 Mm, mm! 1006 00:51:20,251 --> 00:51:24,472 Oh, my gosh! That is heavenly. 1007 00:51:24,559 --> 00:51:25,908 - You like it? - Oh, my G... Abs... 1008 00:51:25,995 --> 00:51:27,997 That is definitely going into my cookbook. 1009 00:51:28,085 --> 00:51:31,044 Yes, Irving's herb-crusted rib roast, 1010 00:51:31,131 --> 00:51:33,046 guaranteed to bring your holiday guests 1011 00:51:33,177 --> 00:51:34,439 right up to your doorstep. 1012 00:51:34,526 --> 00:51:35,614 Thank you. You can have it. 1013 00:51:35,744 --> 00:51:37,355 And, um, if you don't mind, 1014 00:51:37,485 --> 00:51:41,228 what are some of your featured cookbook cuisines? 1015 00:51:41,315 --> 00:51:44,275 Wow, um, 1016 00:51:44,362 --> 00:51:46,233 that's kind of a tough one, but, uh, I'd have to... 1017 00:51:46,320 --> 00:51:48,279 Don't let me interrupt you. Come on, come on. 1018 00:51:48,409 --> 00:51:51,064 Uh, let's see, I would have to say that one of my favorites 1019 00:51:51,151 --> 00:51:54,546 is my crawfish cornbread dressing, 1020 00:51:54,676 --> 00:51:58,767 my bourbon-butter sweet-potato halves, all topped off with 1021 00:51:58,898 --> 00:52:03,946 a humongous slice of my praline caramel-pumpkin loaf. Ha-ha! 1022 00:52:04,077 --> 00:52:06,688 Yes, you know, just a, just a little tee nine chee bit, right? 1023 00:52:06,775 --> 00:52:09,300 You know, to kickstart the hibernation. Hello. 1024 00:52:12,216 --> 00:52:14,131 I just decided. 1025 00:52:14,218 --> 00:52:16,916 I wanna cook that for the Christmas Eve feast this year. 1026 00:52:17,003 --> 00:52:19,266 Is that all right? Can I do that? 1027 00:52:19,353 --> 00:52:22,791 I'm-I'm honored, but I, I, I, don't know 1028 00:52:22,878 --> 00:52:24,619 if I'll be able to stay for Christmas Eve. 1029 00:52:24,750 --> 00:52:26,708 Oh, uh, that's okay. 1030 00:52:26,795 --> 00:52:31,583 You can invite your husband, boyfriend, wife up here. 1031 00:52:31,670 --> 00:52:33,846 I appreciate that, but I actually 1032 00:52:33,976 --> 00:52:36,109 don't have any of those. Yeah. 1033 00:52:36,196 --> 00:52:38,459 Well, I was married once, just many moons ago, 1034 00:52:38,546 --> 00:52:42,028 to a man whose name shall not be repeated. 1035 00:52:42,115 --> 00:52:44,813 And what-what about you? Any love on the mountain? 1036 00:52:44,900 --> 00:52:48,861 No. Nah, well, I mean, uh, not since my wife left us. 1037 00:52:48,948 --> 00:52:50,558 Ah, it's, I don't know, it's just not something 1038 00:52:50,645 --> 00:52:51,733 that I wanted to pursue. 1039 00:52:51,864 --> 00:52:53,213 Oh, okay. 1040 00:52:53,300 --> 00:52:56,999 But I do hate to cook for myself alone, so a lot of times 1041 00:52:57,086 --> 00:52:59,741 I'll book discounted rates to, uh, you know, 1042 00:52:59,828 --> 00:53:02,831 get warm bodies up here. 1043 00:53:02,918 --> 00:53:07,227 Cheers to a full house this Christmas. 1044 00:53:07,314 --> 00:53:08,707 Full house this Christmas. 1045 00:53:12,493 --> 00:53:13,668 Hey, guys! 1046 00:53:13,799 --> 00:53:14,713 - Hey, you're back. - Hey! 1047 00:53:14,800 --> 00:53:18,107 - How was the drop? - The kids loved it. 1048 00:53:18,195 --> 00:53:19,979 And we even stayed for a little of the rehearsal. 1049 00:53:20,066 --> 00:53:21,937 - Aww. - Ugh. 1050 00:53:22,024 --> 00:53:24,070 I remember playing the Ghost of Christmas Future 1051 00:53:24,157 --> 00:53:27,116 when I was a kid. I need to recreate that look. 1052 00:53:27,204 --> 00:53:28,509 Ooh! Maybe I should even do that for Christmas Eve? 1053 00:53:28,596 --> 00:53:33,340 Yes, oh, please. Oh, this I have to see. 1054 00:53:33,427 --> 00:53:36,213 So what have you all been up to? Did you finish your shorts? 1055 00:53:36,300 --> 00:53:38,563 We did, and we decided to reward ourselves 1056 00:53:38,693 --> 00:53:39,520 with a little hot toddy teatime. 1057 00:53:39,607 --> 00:53:42,175 - Oh? - Would either of you like one? 1058 00:53:42,262 --> 00:53:44,046 - I would. You? - Uh, well... 1059 00:53:44,133 --> 00:53:46,179 I'd love to, but I can't. 1060 00:53:46,310 --> 00:53:48,616 I actually need to get started on reading those shorts 1061 00:53:48,703 --> 00:53:53,882 before dinner, but if you'll excuse me. Um, have fun. 1062 00:53:53,969 --> 00:53:56,102 Aww! - See ya. 1063 00:53:56,189 --> 00:53:57,712 So, Olive, tell us everything about the musical 1064 00:53:57,799 --> 00:54:00,759 that you're almost done writing. 1065 00:54:00,846 --> 00:54:02,804 Uh, Keifer says it's Christmas-themed? 1066 00:54:02,935 --> 00:54:04,806 It is. 1067 00:54:04,937 --> 00:54:06,982 Ooh, we plan to open on Broadway next year. 1068 00:54:07,113 --> 00:54:10,290 It's called Sleigh Belles Of The Ball. 1069 00:54:10,377 --> 00:54:12,336 Here you go. - Oh, thank you. 1070 00:54:12,423 --> 00:54:15,730 You're welcome. It's about these three very different sisters 1071 00:54:15,817 --> 00:54:17,950 all competing for the love of this 1072 00:54:18,037 --> 00:54:19,995 salt-of-the-Earth-type groundskeeper 1073 00:54:20,082 --> 00:54:22,911 who works on the family ranch, at Christmas time! 1074 00:54:22,998 --> 00:54:25,392 Oh! I'm all into that, too. Yes! 1075 00:54:25,479 --> 00:54:26,872 You work so much in New York, 1076 00:54:26,959 --> 00:54:28,656 I'm surprised you just don't live there. 1077 00:54:28,787 --> 00:54:30,702 Oh. Oh, it's funny you should ask. 1078 00:54:30,789 --> 00:54:36,316 See, I have a place there, too, but much like a songbird, 1079 00:54:36,403 --> 00:54:38,666 I prefer to fly south for the winter. 1080 00:54:38,753 --> 00:54:42,017 Especially this year, because I just went through 1081 00:54:42,104 --> 00:54:46,370 this awful off-Broadway breakup, and am now totally single. 1082 00:54:46,457 --> 00:54:49,155 Oh, no. So sorry to hear that. 1083 00:54:49,242 --> 00:54:51,505 Oh, don't be. 1084 00:54:51,636 --> 00:54:54,595 Oh, it was all my undoing. Anyway, I'm fine. 1085 00:54:54,726 --> 00:54:58,077 I've met more than enough catches during my migration. 1086 00:54:58,207 --> 00:54:59,644 - Is that so now? Mm-hmm. 1087 00:54:59,731 --> 00:55:03,387 - I just need to pick one. - Well, good for you. 1088 00:55:03,474 --> 00:55:04,997 Who doesn't love a little Christmas romance 1089 00:55:05,084 --> 00:55:06,477 at a winter retreat? 1090 00:55:06,564 --> 00:55:08,653 I'll cheers to that. - Cheers. 1091 00:55:10,481 --> 00:55:11,830 Cheers. 1092 00:55:11,960 --> 00:55:13,875 Cheers. - Yes. 1093 00:55:27,846 --> 00:55:30,022 Good morning, early-bird bookworm. 1094 00:55:30,109 --> 00:55:32,067 Mm, morning. 1095 00:55:32,154 --> 00:55:37,029 Wow. Halfway through my second book. Impressive. 1096 00:55:37,116 --> 00:55:40,249 What can I say? I mean, Maya takes my mornings, too. 1097 00:55:40,380 --> 00:55:44,993 Oh. Reindeer Romances. 1098 00:55:45,124 --> 00:55:48,214 "The tale of the little male reindeer pining for the love 1099 00:55:48,301 --> 00:55:50,608 of the most beautiful and regal reindeer of them all." 1100 00:55:50,695 --> 00:55:53,828 Yup. Did you enjoy it? 1101 00:55:53,959 --> 00:55:55,352 I did. - Huh. 1102 00:55:55,439 --> 00:55:57,615 But I did have some issues 1103 00:55:57,702 --> 00:56:00,835 with her side of the same story. 1104 00:56:00,922 --> 00:56:01,575 There was a few places that were off. 1105 00:56:01,662 --> 00:56:03,708 Yeah? How so? 1106 00:56:03,795 --> 00:56:06,145 I think she's a lot more vulnerable 1107 00:56:06,232 --> 00:56:08,103 than you've made her out to be. 1108 00:56:08,190 --> 00:56:10,541 I mean, maybe she loves to roam ahead of the herd 1109 00:56:10,671 --> 00:56:15,110 because she's been hurt and afraid to open up again. 1110 00:56:15,197 --> 00:56:17,069 Mm. 1111 00:56:17,156 --> 00:56:19,724 Well, it is my first time writing from the POV 1112 00:56:19,854 --> 00:56:22,988 of a complex lady reindeer, 1113 00:56:23,118 --> 00:56:27,819 so I appreciate any additional insight you could give. 1114 00:56:27,949 --> 00:56:30,430 It's hard to open yourself up to love again 1115 00:56:30,517 --> 00:56:32,911 when you've lost the person you love the most. 1116 00:56:33,041 --> 00:56:36,131 My mom was everything to me. 1117 00:56:36,218 --> 00:56:40,962 And I lost her and my fiance... 1118 00:56:41,093 --> 00:56:43,704 seems like in the blink of an eye. 1119 00:56:43,791 --> 00:56:47,926 You know, I know what it's like to lose people you love 1120 00:56:48,013 --> 00:56:50,102 in the blink of an eye. 1121 00:56:50,189 --> 00:56:52,931 I lost my parents at the same time as well. 1122 00:56:54,933 --> 00:56:56,413 But if you choose not to love again, 1123 00:56:56,500 --> 00:56:59,067 we're only missing out on the very thing 1124 00:56:59,154 --> 00:57:02,244 that makes life worth living to start. 1125 00:57:02,375 --> 00:57:06,553 You're a lot sweeter than I originally pegged you to be. 1126 00:57:06,684 --> 00:57:10,122 There's something about you that's just comfortable... 1127 00:57:10,905 --> 00:57:13,604 except when you're trying to be funny. 1128 00:57:16,215 --> 00:57:17,825 It's been nice having you. 1129 00:57:17,912 --> 00:57:20,915 It's been nice being here. 1130 00:57:21,002 --> 00:57:24,266 But look, there's something that I wanted to talk-- 1131 00:57:24,353 --> 00:57:27,400 Look, I know, I know you're a fan of my mom 1132 00:57:27,487 --> 00:57:30,055 and that that's the real reason you came. 1133 00:57:30,142 --> 00:57:32,274 It's okay. You know, it's a good reason. 1134 00:57:32,405 --> 00:57:36,627 Right, but I wanted to ask if... 1135 00:57:36,714 --> 00:57:39,717 if-if you're okay with it, I-I don't know if, 1136 00:57:39,804 --> 00:57:42,676 if I maybe write a bio or a piece about your mom's legacy. 1137 00:57:42,807 --> 00:57:46,506 We'd need to discuss it some more, 1138 00:57:46,593 --> 00:57:50,075 but I think that if anyone would be good at sharing 1139 00:57:50,162 --> 00:57:53,818 how wonderful she was, you'd be a good fit. 1140 00:57:59,388 --> 00:58:00,215 You've reached Tracy. 1141 00:58:00,302 --> 00:58:02,261 Leave me a message. 1142 00:58:02,391 --> 00:58:07,092 Trace. Hey, it's, uh, Levi. 1143 00:58:07,222 --> 00:58:10,138 I-I just wanted to say that this isn't the year 1144 00:58:10,269 --> 00:58:11,531 for this whole retrospect. 1145 00:58:11,662 --> 00:58:12,750 I have so many amazing things to share 1146 00:58:12,837 --> 00:58:17,581 and it's just not the right time right now. 1147 00:58:17,668 --> 00:58:19,191 Things, they move a little slower up here 1148 00:58:19,278 --> 00:58:23,238 and I'm actually learning to be thankful for that. 1149 00:58:23,325 --> 00:58:26,241 Anyway, look, I'm-I'm sorry. 1150 00:58:26,328 --> 00:58:28,374 And I understand if you don't wanna commission me anymore 1151 00:58:28,505 --> 00:58:31,029 for leaving you hanging like this, 1152 00:58:31,116 --> 00:58:34,728 but I really hope you'll let me have another shot next year. 1153 00:58:34,815 --> 00:58:37,775 All right, um, well, call me back when you can. 1154 00:58:49,177 --> 00:58:52,093 Oh. Wonder what that was about, do you think? 1155 00:58:52,224 --> 00:58:53,399 No idea. 1156 00:58:58,143 --> 00:58:59,492 Wow, those look amazing! 1157 00:58:59,579 --> 00:59:01,189 That's homemade cinnamon Graham. 1158 00:59:01,276 --> 00:59:03,148 That tastes even better than it looks. 1159 00:59:03,278 --> 00:59:05,672 A little bit of mallow magic. Please enjoy. 1160 00:59:05,803 --> 00:59:10,590 - Yes. - Ooh. Oh. 1161 00:59:10,677 --> 00:59:12,810 - Oh. You sound so cold. 1162 00:59:12,940 --> 00:59:15,987 - Ooh, I am a little bit. - I got you. I got you. 1163 00:59:16,074 --> 00:59:19,773 Oh. Thanks. Such a gentleman. 1164 00:59:19,904 --> 00:59:23,298 Uh, and-and we can pass this candy cane 1165 00:59:23,429 --> 00:59:25,736 for whoever would like to go first. 1166 00:59:27,781 --> 00:59:30,349 - Okay, I'll go! - All right. 1167 00:59:30,436 --> 00:59:33,918 Okay. Um, all right, okay. Okay. 1168 00:59:34,005 --> 00:59:38,879 - So, my poem is called Imagine. Ah. 1169 00:59:38,966 --> 00:59:43,144 "Imagine a place where wild things are, 1170 00:59:43,275 --> 00:59:47,714 imagine this place, imagine how far. 1171 00:59:47,801 --> 00:59:50,151 Imagine falling down a white rabbit's hole, 1172 00:59:50,282 --> 00:59:53,154 only to find out it has swallowed you whole. 1173 00:59:53,241 --> 00:59:56,723 Imagine mining through caves with dwarves never seen, 1174 00:59:56,810 --> 00:59:59,204 or diving with scaly mermaids 1175 00:59:59,291 --> 01:00:02,511 in lagoons of deep green. 1176 01:00:02,599 --> 01:00:03,861 Imagine Father Christmas, 1177 01:00:03,991 --> 01:00:08,692 Jack Frost and me, 1178 01:00:08,779 --> 01:00:10,998 calling kids upon a sleigh. 1179 01:00:11,129 --> 01:00:14,219 Hey, kid, come to this world and see! 1180 01:00:14,306 --> 01:00:16,613 Imagine riding 1181 01:00:16,743 --> 01:00:20,312 the largest long-gone dinosaur 1182 01:00:20,399 --> 01:00:24,098 and finding out that your imagination 1183 01:00:24,185 --> 01:00:27,232 is but a key without a door..." 1184 01:00:31,105 --> 01:00:34,718 - Wow. Nice job. - Amazing. 1185 01:00:34,805 --> 01:00:37,198 All right, all right, all right, uh, who's next? 1186 01:00:37,329 --> 01:00:39,287 - You. - I'm not going after that. 1187 01:00:39,374 --> 01:00:40,158 - No way! Nope! - Oh, come on! 1188 01:00:40,288 --> 01:00:43,857 - And, uh, Levi, your turn. - Yeah. 1189 01:00:43,944 --> 01:00:47,339 Uh. I'll hold your mallow for you. 1190 01:00:47,426 --> 01:00:48,514 Let's go. Come on, somebody's got to go. 1191 01:00:48,645 --> 01:00:51,169 - Come on. 1192 01:00:51,256 --> 01:00:53,171 There you go. Take your candy cane. 1193 01:00:56,217 --> 01:00:58,742 Ooh. 1194 01:00:58,829 --> 01:01:03,529 Um, so my poem is called Blue For You. 1195 01:01:03,616 --> 01:01:08,229 "There was once the black to run my hand through above your neck, 1196 01:01:08,360 --> 01:01:09,840 and the brown gaze that pierced me 1197 01:01:09,970 --> 01:01:13,234 from across our crowded parties. 1198 01:01:13,321 --> 01:01:15,410 But there was a blue tint to everything you wore... 1199 01:01:16,150 --> 01:01:18,587 blue even if it didn't have blue, 1200 01:01:18,718 --> 01:01:22,200 because in my eyes you were always a little blue. 1201 01:01:24,245 --> 01:01:25,986 My heart used to tell me all lies. 1202 01:01:26,073 --> 01:01:30,034 Your life is full. Your job is full. 1203 01:01:31,426 --> 01:01:34,473 Your heart is full. 1204 01:01:34,560 --> 01:01:36,170 Now I know my life is too light, 1205 01:01:36,257 --> 01:01:39,478 my job is too easy, my heart is too empty. 1206 01:01:42,568 --> 01:01:45,571 But now they are all blue to me, too. 1207 01:01:45,658 --> 01:01:47,355 There is blue consuming the empty space 1208 01:01:47,442 --> 01:01:50,271 where you used to stand next to me, 1209 01:01:50,358 --> 01:01:54,449 covered in colors, but blue, and glowing from head to toe, 1210 01:01:54,580 --> 01:01:56,756 There is blue on the walls where our love once hung 1211 01:01:56,843 --> 01:01:58,932 in pictures of you and me. 1212 01:01:59,063 --> 01:02:03,850 There is even blue noise in the sounds of our favorite songs, 1213 01:02:03,981 --> 01:02:06,592 unfamiliar now and harsh, 1214 01:02:09,551 --> 01:02:11,640 And there's blue in my eyes. 1215 01:02:11,771 --> 01:02:13,077 All I can see... 1216 01:02:14,643 --> 01:02:16,254 is that I'm empty without you." 1217 01:02:18,430 --> 01:02:22,390 Well, uh, that was beautiful. 1218 01:02:22,477 --> 01:02:23,478 Thank you. 1219 01:02:28,614 --> 01:02:31,182 - Oh. - Ooh. Uh, who's next? 1220 01:02:32,705 --> 01:02:36,622 - Sharon? - Uh, oh, um, okay. 1221 01:02:36,709 --> 01:02:39,494 Fine, 'cause I sure enough do not wanna go last. 1222 01:02:39,625 --> 01:02:41,192 - You got this. - Here. Can you hold that for me? 1223 01:02:41,322 --> 01:02:42,410 - Sure. - All right. 1224 01:02:42,541 --> 01:02:47,415 All right, here we go. Okay. 1225 01:02:47,546 --> 01:02:48,939 And just how did you know that my favorite color is blue, 1226 01:02:49,026 --> 01:02:51,289 aside from powder pink? 1227 01:02:57,904 --> 01:03:00,689 - Oh. Wow. Okay. 1228 01:03:00,777 --> 01:03:03,040 Uh, what's all this? 1229 01:03:03,127 --> 01:03:06,173 Well, I tried to find the best that I could find in town. 1230 01:03:06,304 --> 01:03:08,828 They didn't have a lot of Creole options, 1231 01:03:08,959 --> 01:03:12,440 but I did buy everything that I could find. 1232 01:03:12,527 --> 01:03:14,834 You did say that you wanted to make my cookbook menu 1233 01:03:14,921 --> 01:03:16,575 for the Christmas Eve feast, right? 1234 01:03:16,662 --> 01:03:18,707 - Yes, I did. - Okay, well... 1235 01:03:18,795 --> 01:03:20,187 I figured I've still got so much work left to do 1236 01:03:20,318 --> 01:03:24,017 on the cookbook, that if it's okay with you, 1237 01:03:24,148 --> 01:03:25,279 we would just jump right around in there 1238 01:03:25,366 --> 01:03:29,980 and try to perfect some of these recipes together. 1239 01:03:30,067 --> 01:03:32,417 But the only problem is is that there weren't a lot 1240 01:03:32,504 --> 01:03:33,461 of Creole spices left in town. 1241 01:03:33,548 --> 01:03:36,856 Well, you're in luck because I pre-ordered 1242 01:03:36,943 --> 01:03:40,294 just about everything that you're gonna need. 1243 01:03:40,425 --> 01:03:43,210 Look at you. 1244 01:03:43,341 --> 01:03:45,647 My secret sauce. 1245 01:03:45,734 --> 01:03:48,825 Okay, well, I guess this means it was meant to be. 1246 01:03:48,912 --> 01:03:49,956 I guess it was. 1247 01:03:50,087 --> 01:03:50,348 We got our work cut out 1248 01:03:50,435 --> 01:03:53,003 for us then. 1249 01:03:53,090 --> 01:03:54,482 Wait, so does that mean that you're gonna 1250 01:03:54,613 --> 01:03:56,049 stay through the Christmas holidays? 1251 01:03:56,136 --> 01:03:59,313 I, I suppose so. 1252 01:03:59,444 --> 01:04:02,012 I really don't have anywhere else to be, so why not? 1253 01:04:06,451 --> 01:04:06,973 Good morning, everyone. 1254 01:04:07,104 --> 01:04:09,106 Oh. Has anyone seen Levi? 1255 01:04:09,193 --> 01:04:12,239 Uh, I saw him this morning. 1256 01:04:12,370 --> 01:04:13,023 He was headed into town, I believe. 1257 01:04:13,110 --> 01:04:16,461 Oh, okay. 1258 01:04:16,591 --> 01:04:19,638 Uh, well then, today is 1259 01:04:19,725 --> 01:04:22,467 Jack Frost's Freehand Challenge. 1260 01:04:22,554 --> 01:04:27,559 Now that we have the creative cocoa flowing from within, 1261 01:04:27,646 --> 01:04:31,519 you get to focus on yourselves today, no matter what that is. 1262 01:04:31,606 --> 01:04:35,349 Now, I know that Sharon is working hard on her cookbook 1263 01:04:35,436 --> 01:04:38,570 and, Olive, you have songs to write, 1264 01:04:38,657 --> 01:04:41,094 and, of course, Mitchell is writing 1265 01:04:41,181 --> 01:04:44,097 our next blockbuster action flick. 1266 01:04:44,184 --> 01:04:47,666 So take the time to do you, and we can discuss 1267 01:04:47,796 --> 01:04:51,539 the New Year's newsletter when Levi gets back. Sound good? 1268 01:04:51,670 --> 01:04:53,759 - Yeah. Great. 1269 01:04:53,846 --> 01:04:56,196 Okay, great. Well, I will let you get to it. 1270 01:04:59,025 --> 01:05:00,157 ♪ Hey ♪ 1271 01:05:06,990 --> 01:05:10,645 We gonna put one and two. 1272 01:05:10,732 --> 01:05:12,734 Wait, wait, wait. What-what-what are you doing? 1273 01:05:12,865 --> 01:05:14,388 - That's, it's just too much. It's two tablespoons. 1274 01:05:14,475 --> 01:05:15,955 - That's the recipe. - No, no! 1275 01:05:16,042 --> 01:05:17,348 - It's just too much. Yes. - You wanna taste it? 1276 01:05:17,435 --> 01:05:18,436 Come on. 1277 01:05:19,872 --> 01:05:21,830 - Okay. - There. 1278 01:05:21,918 --> 01:05:23,397 Try it. What do you think? It's perfect, right? 1279 01:05:23,528 --> 01:05:26,009 - Um... - What are you... 1280 01:05:26,139 --> 01:05:27,053 - Now it's perfect. 1281 01:05:27,140 --> 01:05:30,100 Okay. 1282 01:05:30,187 --> 01:05:33,973 ♪ Eight to eighty we're all just kids ♪ 1283 01:05:34,060 --> 01:05:36,193 ♪ We can't wait till the 25th ♪ 1284 01:05:36,323 --> 01:05:39,326 ♪ It's time now ♪ 1285 01:05:39,457 --> 01:05:44,723 ♪ For the countdown to Christmas ♪ 1286 01:05:44,853 --> 01:05:51,251 ♪ Right now it's the countdown to Christmas ♪ 1287 01:05:53,123 --> 01:05:55,516 Hm, I think I know what someone's putting in her 1288 01:05:55,603 --> 01:05:58,563 New Year's newsletter besides wanting to finish her book. 1289 01:05:58,650 --> 01:06:00,086 What are you talking about? 1290 01:06:01,914 --> 01:06:04,743 Come on. Spill it. 1291 01:06:04,873 --> 01:06:07,093 - You two kissed? 1292 01:06:07,180 --> 01:06:07,789 Have you and Mitchell kissed? 1293 01:06:07,920 --> 01:06:10,488 No. I'm keeping it professional. 1294 01:06:10,618 --> 01:06:11,663 I'm not gonna ask him out until the week's over. 1295 01:06:11,750 --> 01:06:14,318 Hm, well, then me, too, I am not asking Levi out 1296 01:06:14,405 --> 01:06:16,973 until he asks me out first. 1297 01:06:17,103 --> 01:06:20,889 Aww, Mik, I'm so happy for you. 1298 01:06:21,020 --> 01:06:25,155 I haven't seen you like this since... ever. 1299 01:06:25,242 --> 01:06:28,071 Well, I am just ecstatic that the second half of my book 1300 01:06:28,158 --> 01:06:30,116 is finally coming to me. 1301 01:06:30,203 --> 01:06:31,944 Uh-uh. Right. Oh, yeah, that's all. 1302 01:06:32,075 --> 01:06:33,554 Oh, yeah. Sure. Oh, that's it. Yeah. 1303 01:06:33,641 --> 01:06:36,079 - Okay. 1304 01:06:36,166 --> 01:06:38,255 Oh, by the way, did he, like, ever ask you the questions 1305 01:06:38,342 --> 01:06:39,386 he said he wanted to pick your brain about? 1306 01:06:39,517 --> 01:06:43,042 Nope, I mean, he asked me questions, sure, 1307 01:06:43,129 --> 01:06:46,524 but not like an interrogation. Why? 1308 01:06:46,611 --> 01:06:48,526 No, no reason, I just, I heard him on the phone 1309 01:06:48,613 --> 01:06:50,702 talking about some project he was commissioned for. 1310 01:06:50,789 --> 01:06:53,444 But it's really none of my business. 1311 01:06:53,574 --> 01:06:54,880 I was just wondering. 1312 01:06:54,967 --> 01:06:57,274 And what are you working on over there? 1313 01:06:57,361 --> 01:07:01,365 I'm actually just finishing up notes on Mitchell's script. 1314 01:07:01,452 --> 01:07:04,977 You know what, it's really quite good, actually. 1315 01:07:05,064 --> 01:07:07,153 And I'm not even saying that in a biased way. 1316 01:07:07,284 --> 01:07:09,938 Well then, I guess you'll have to go tell him the good news 1317 01:07:10,026 --> 01:07:10,461 when you're done working on it, huh? 1318 01:07:10,591 --> 01:07:12,289 Oh. If I must, I must. 1319 01:07:22,125 --> 01:07:22,864 Need some help with that? 1320 01:07:22,951 --> 01:07:25,563 - Oh, thank you kindly. - Yeah. 1321 01:07:25,650 --> 01:07:27,565 It's gonna get a lot chillier tonight. 1322 01:07:27,652 --> 01:07:28,914 - Oh, yeah? - Might even see some snow. 1323 01:07:29,001 --> 01:07:31,090 Hm, perfect way to start Christmas Eve. 1324 01:07:31,177 --> 01:07:32,700 - You bet. - Yeah. 1325 01:07:32,831 --> 01:07:34,746 So I, um, finished your script. 1326 01:07:35,442 --> 01:07:38,532 - And? - Well, you were right. 1327 01:07:38,619 --> 01:07:40,099 Technically there were some issues. 1328 01:07:40,186 --> 01:07:43,015 I mean, there's some major structural flaws, 1329 01:07:43,102 --> 01:07:44,973 and a couple of plot holes here and there 1330 01:07:45,061 --> 01:07:48,890 that need fleshing out, and if I'm being honest, 1331 01:07:48,977 --> 01:07:51,110 the story is a bit formulaic as well. 1332 01:07:51,197 --> 01:07:53,591 But all that aside, 1333 01:07:53,678 --> 01:07:56,246 the dialogue was great, 1334 01:07:56,333 --> 01:07:59,640 the characters are rich, deep, complex, 1335 01:07:59,727 --> 01:08:01,468 and more so than anything else, very likable. 1336 01:08:01,555 --> 01:08:06,125 And where the story sits in a formula, God, you went 1337 01:08:06,212 --> 01:08:08,649 above and beyond to break the mold with your hero's journey. 1338 01:08:08,736 --> 01:08:11,348 - Do you really mean that? - Yeah. 1339 01:08:11,435 --> 01:08:13,524 I mean, I just thought, the world's first gay superhero. 1340 01:08:13,611 --> 01:08:15,395 Am I crazy? The world's not ready for that! 1341 01:08:15,526 --> 01:08:18,659 You know what, I thought the exact same thing at first, 1342 01:08:18,790 --> 01:08:20,574 but I think they are. 1343 01:08:25,579 --> 01:08:27,929 Are you seriously telling me you're 1344 01:08:28,016 --> 01:08:29,888 one chapter from the finish line? 1345 01:08:30,018 --> 01:08:31,498 - That's what I'm telling you. Oh, Mikaela. 1346 01:08:31,585 --> 01:08:35,807 You just made all my Christmas wishes come true! 1347 01:08:35,937 --> 01:08:37,417 And here I thought the retreat was going to be 1348 01:08:37,548 --> 01:08:38,766 a complete waste. 1349 01:08:38,853 --> 01:08:40,768 I guess what they say is true. 1350 01:08:40,855 --> 01:08:42,596 A mother always knows best, huh? 1351 01:08:42,683 --> 01:08:45,512 I guess so, unless it's my mother. 1352 01:08:45,643 --> 01:08:49,125 - Merry Christmas, Geeg. - Merry Christmas! 1353 01:08:56,001 --> 01:08:58,656 Hey, mister! Where have you been all day? 1354 01:08:58,743 --> 01:09:00,832 Oh, I just had a few gifts to pick up in town 1355 01:09:00,919 --> 01:09:01,963 for my fellow writers. 1356 01:09:02,094 --> 01:09:02,747 Oh, I see. 1357 01:09:02,834 --> 01:09:04,879 Well, you missed most of 1358 01:09:05,010 --> 01:09:07,578 Jack Frost's Freehand Session. 1359 01:09:07,665 --> 01:09:08,492 Ah, it's fine, I'm actually 1360 01:09:08,579 --> 01:09:12,800 all caught up in my personal projects. 1361 01:09:12,931 --> 01:09:14,411 But I was thinking of a new one if you might be game for it. 1362 01:09:14,541 --> 01:09:17,109 Oh, yeah? What's that? 1363 01:09:17,240 --> 01:09:20,025 I'd love to edit your new book. 1364 01:09:21,983 --> 01:09:23,594 I mean, it-it would be an honor, really. 1365 01:09:23,724 --> 01:09:27,989 You did say your original editor backed out recently, right? 1366 01:09:28,076 --> 01:09:31,776 Uh, I-I-I did, yeah, but, um... 1367 01:09:31,863 --> 01:09:35,562 Wow. I mean, that's just... 1368 01:09:35,649 --> 01:09:40,915 It would just mean us spending a lot of time together. 1369 01:09:41,046 --> 01:09:43,701 I mean, sounds perfect to me. 1370 01:09:48,227 --> 01:09:50,795 Um... 1371 01:09:50,882 --> 01:09:54,190 Can I, can I take a moment to think about it? 1372 01:09:54,277 --> 01:09:57,541 Take all the time you need. I'm not going anywhere. 1373 01:10:09,988 --> 01:10:11,772 All right, who is ready to play 1374 01:10:11,903 --> 01:10:12,512 'Twas The Treasure Hunt Before Christmas? 1375 01:10:12,599 --> 01:10:14,688 Ooh, me, me, me! 1376 01:10:14,775 --> 01:10:18,126 All right, so, um, how exactly do we play this again? 1377 01:10:18,214 --> 01:10:20,912 There's three notes folded inside, 1378 01:10:20,999 --> 01:10:25,090 each one a clue to where Secret Santa's stockings hide. 1379 01:10:25,177 --> 01:10:28,441 Whomever is brave enough to reach in first 1380 01:10:28,572 --> 01:10:32,097 will pick a partner, for better or for worse. 1381 01:10:32,184 --> 01:10:35,100 - Who's gonna be first? - I'll go first. 1382 01:10:35,187 --> 01:10:37,711 - I love the enthusiasm. - Okay. 1383 01:10:39,060 --> 01:10:41,367 - Oh. 1384 01:10:41,498 --> 01:10:43,369 - All right. - Uh, stop, don't. 1385 01:10:45,763 --> 01:10:48,679 - What do we do now? - Now you go find it. 1386 01:10:48,766 --> 01:10:50,681 - All right. 1387 01:10:50,768 --> 01:10:52,726 - All right, who's next? - I'll go. 1388 01:10:53,988 --> 01:10:56,513 Um, all righty. 1389 01:10:59,124 --> 01:11:01,866 - You. Come on. - Thank God. 1390 01:11:01,953 --> 01:11:04,347 All right, um, so, uh... 1391 01:11:05,957 --> 01:11:08,220 - You think? - We-we could try it. 1392 01:11:08,307 --> 01:11:11,919 We'll give it a try. All right. And we're off! 1393 01:11:12,050 --> 01:11:16,010 All right, there's one left saved for the two of you. 1394 01:11:16,141 --> 01:11:17,708 Okay. 1395 01:11:17,795 --> 01:11:18,709 - Irv, do you mind? - Sure. 1396 01:11:18,796 --> 01:11:19,971 Thanks. Thanks, man. 1397 01:11:24,454 --> 01:11:26,412 - Okay, let's go. - Let's go. 1398 01:11:33,898 --> 01:11:38,119 Ooh. Whoa. 1399 01:11:38,206 --> 01:11:44,038 Okay, I'm gonna check in here. No. 1400 01:11:44,169 --> 01:11:47,651 Why don't we check the secret bookshelf? 1401 01:11:49,261 --> 01:11:50,436 - Secret bookshelf? - Yeah. 1402 01:11:50,523 --> 01:11:52,482 What? 1403 01:11:53,874 --> 01:11:57,095 All right, come on, watch your step, careful, all right. 1404 01:11:57,182 --> 01:11:59,140 Okay, um... Gosh, I don't know. 1405 01:11:59,227 --> 01:12:01,926 Maybe when this thing says loft, do you... 1406 01:12:02,056 --> 01:12:06,322 Didn't actually mean the loft. Okay, just... Uh... 1407 01:12:08,846 --> 01:12:11,065 I-I don't know. What-what do you think? 1408 01:12:11,196 --> 01:12:12,806 Where else do you think it could be? 1409 01:12:14,155 --> 01:12:15,983 Hello? 1410 01:12:16,070 --> 01:12:19,857 Oh, it has to be my mother's secret garden. 1411 01:12:19,944 --> 01:12:20,988 - Hm. 1412 01:12:33,740 --> 01:12:36,177 Levi, did you do this? 1413 01:12:39,616 --> 01:12:44,185 I figured if you're going to revive her retreat, 1414 01:12:44,316 --> 01:12:46,884 you might wanna revive her favorite place to write, too. 1415 01:12:50,278 --> 01:12:52,890 Levi, I... I don't know what to say. 1416 01:12:52,977 --> 01:12:55,588 - D-did my dad... - Yeah. 1417 01:12:55,675 --> 01:12:58,025 I talked to him this morning and he said I could. 1418 01:12:58,112 --> 01:13:00,593 He said you were ready, and if you were, he was, too. 1419 01:13:00,724 --> 01:13:05,293 This is amazing, you know, it's even more magical 1420 01:13:05,381 --> 01:13:06,947 than I remember it when I was a kid. 1421 01:13:07,078 --> 01:13:09,776 And where did you find two turtledoves? 1422 01:13:09,907 --> 01:13:12,823 Oh, um, you know, Santa's secret stockings. 1423 01:13:12,910 --> 01:13:15,086 - Duh! - Oh. Is that so? 1424 01:13:15,216 --> 01:13:17,305 - Mm-hmm. - Wait, there it is! 1425 01:13:17,393 --> 01:13:18,263 Oh! 1426 01:13:19,569 --> 01:13:21,397 Ah! 1427 01:13:22,310 --> 01:13:23,311 All right. 1428 01:13:23,747 --> 01:13:27,315 - You do the honors. - Hm. 1429 01:13:27,403 --> 01:13:32,103 Mistletoe? Jeez, dad. How original. 1430 01:13:32,190 --> 01:13:35,106 You know, the moment kinda writes itself already. 1431 01:13:35,236 --> 01:13:36,412 Your piece on her mother 1432 01:13:36,542 --> 01:13:37,674 certainly won't write itself, though. 1433 01:13:37,761 --> 01:13:42,461 - I'm sorry? - I'm sorry, Mikaela. 1434 01:13:42,548 --> 01:13:44,463 And I'm sorry I read your journal, 1435 01:13:44,550 --> 01:13:48,772 but, honestly, I would've expected more from you. 1436 01:13:54,604 --> 01:13:57,781 What is she talking about, piece? 1437 01:13:57,868 --> 01:13:59,173 Look, you know when I asked yesterday 1438 01:13:59,304 --> 01:14:00,871 if I could at some point 1439 01:14:00,958 --> 01:14:02,612 write a bio or a piece on your mom's legacy? 1440 01:14:02,742 --> 01:14:06,442 Yeah, but I said I would think about it. 1441 01:14:06,572 --> 01:14:08,356 Right, and when you said that, 1442 01:14:08,487 --> 01:14:10,358 I knew it wasn't the right time, so I-- 1443 01:14:10,446 --> 01:14:11,751 I-it wasn't the right time for what? 1444 01:14:11,838 --> 01:14:12,578 What is in that journal? 1445 01:14:12,665 --> 01:14:16,364 Look, Mikaela, 1446 01:14:16,452 --> 01:14:19,759 when I first came to your workshop, 1447 01:14:19,846 --> 01:14:24,416 I was contracted to do a retrospect on your mother. 1448 01:14:24,547 --> 01:14:28,028 A little, a little holiday piece in The Happy Angeleno. 1449 01:14:28,115 --> 01:14:29,203 And at the time it wasn't something that I thought 1450 01:14:29,334 --> 01:14:30,727 I could write unless you answer some questions. 1451 01:14:30,814 --> 01:14:34,687 So you had to get close to me 1452 01:14:34,774 --> 01:14:37,385 so you could get the real inside scoop on her life. 1453 01:14:37,473 --> 01:14:41,085 Mikaela, you know that site isn't some tabloid, 1454 01:14:41,215 --> 01:14:44,262 some, some gossip. And I'm not even a reporter. 1455 01:14:44,392 --> 01:14:46,482 We just wanted to share some fascinating facts 1456 01:14:46,569 --> 01:14:48,875 about your mom's legacy because so many people love her, 1457 01:14:48,962 --> 01:14:53,489 and so many people wanna know so much more about her. 1458 01:14:53,576 --> 01:14:56,404 We thought that it would be something special for everyone 1459 01:14:56,535 --> 01:14:57,710 to hear and to enjoy during the holidays. 1460 01:14:57,841 --> 01:15:00,931 But it wasn't your story to tell! 1461 01:15:01,061 --> 01:15:03,281 I know, I know. 1462 01:15:03,368 --> 01:15:04,891 And that's why I called my boss yesterday 1463 01:15:04,978 --> 01:15:06,327 to tell her I couldn't do the piece. 1464 01:15:06,414 --> 01:15:09,417 - And that it just wasn't-- - And that what? 1465 01:15:09,548 --> 01:15:13,552 Oh, and that you had fallen for her daughter 1466 01:15:13,639 --> 01:15:18,035 after using her to get into the retreat for your piece? 1467 01:15:18,122 --> 01:15:20,559 I mean, w-was any of this real? 1468 01:15:20,690 --> 01:15:24,215 Of course. Of course it was, Mikaela. 1469 01:15:26,173 --> 01:15:28,001 - I have fallen for you-- - No. 1470 01:15:28,088 --> 01:15:31,962 You are a great liar. 1471 01:15:32,092 --> 01:15:34,878 So how can I believe anything you say is real? 1472 01:15:35,008 --> 01:15:36,532 Oh, my God. 1473 01:15:36,619 --> 01:15:39,535 You know, you should be a fiction writer 1474 01:15:39,622 --> 01:15:43,234 because you definitely had me fooled there. 1475 01:15:45,018 --> 01:15:46,019 Oh. 1476 01:15:53,810 --> 01:15:56,943 - So cute. 1477 01:16:01,469 --> 01:16:02,906 - Don't. - Mikaela? 1478 01:16:04,472 --> 01:16:06,300 - Excuse me. - What happened? 1479 01:16:06,431 --> 01:16:07,432 I don't know. 1480 01:16:46,427 --> 01:16:49,300 She didn't come down for breakfast. 1481 01:16:49,387 --> 01:16:53,173 Right, when her mom left us, 1482 01:16:53,260 --> 01:16:57,221 she, uh, didn't eat for a week. Couldn't get her to move. 1483 01:16:57,308 --> 01:16:59,832 She just sat and stared out her window and... 1484 01:16:59,919 --> 01:17:03,140 I don't expect this is gonna be any different. 1485 01:17:13,324 --> 01:17:15,152 I finished my songs yesterday. 1486 01:17:15,239 --> 01:17:17,502 Was this before or after you blew up the entire retreat 1487 01:17:17,589 --> 01:17:19,809 because you were upset over your little crush? 1488 01:17:28,731 --> 01:17:31,342 In her defense, he was lying to us. 1489 01:18:01,981 --> 01:18:04,027 I'm guessing it's a long shot to get you to eat, 1490 01:18:04,114 --> 01:18:08,945 but Sharon's recipes are even better than mine. 1491 01:18:09,075 --> 01:18:11,034 Thanks, daddy. 1492 01:18:11,121 --> 01:18:12,339 - There you go. - Mm-hmm. 1493 01:18:16,822 --> 01:18:18,563 You come out here to talk to her? 1494 01:18:19,564 --> 01:18:21,392 Yeah. I guess. 1495 01:18:23,176 --> 01:18:25,178 Not much to say, though. 1496 01:18:25,265 --> 01:18:28,181 Maybe this was all just a big mistake. 1497 01:18:28,312 --> 01:18:30,357 Oh, don't say that, honey. 1498 01:18:30,488 --> 01:18:35,449 This is some of the most fun I've had since your mom passed. 1499 01:18:35,580 --> 01:18:37,625 Having all these amazing people out here, 1500 01:18:37,756 --> 01:18:40,498 they didn't feel like my normal guests 1501 01:18:40,585 --> 01:18:43,544 that I was giving a hot meal to. 1502 01:18:43,631 --> 01:18:47,026 It started to feel like... home again. 1503 01:18:47,113 --> 01:18:52,031 - Yeah, it did, didn't it? - Mm-hmm. 1504 01:18:52,162 --> 01:18:54,294 And this guy Levi, 1505 01:18:54,425 --> 01:18:58,211 I think his feelings for you are real. 1506 01:18:58,298 --> 01:19:00,779 When he showed up at the crack of dawn 1507 01:19:00,866 --> 01:19:03,434 wanting to revive your mother's secret garden? 1508 01:19:05,349 --> 01:19:06,480 You can't fake that, honey. 1509 01:19:06,611 --> 01:19:08,395 But that doesn't change where his intentions were 1510 01:19:08,482 --> 01:19:09,179 from the start. 1511 01:19:09,266 --> 01:19:11,747 But is it so bad he wants 1512 01:19:11,834 --> 01:19:13,749 to tell your mother's story? 1513 01:19:13,879 --> 01:19:18,101 I mean, you and I haven't been the best at doing her justice. 1514 01:19:18,188 --> 01:19:21,757 Yeah. I guess you're right about that. 1515 01:19:25,325 --> 01:19:27,763 I don't know, it's just, 1516 01:19:27,850 --> 01:19:30,809 growing up, mom was always in the spotlight. 1517 01:19:30,896 --> 01:19:34,465 And then when I grew up, suddenly I was in the spotlight, 1518 01:19:34,595 --> 01:19:39,078 and, and nothing ever felt sacred. 1519 01:19:39,209 --> 01:19:41,777 So when we lost her, 1520 01:19:41,907 --> 01:19:44,605 I just wanted to protect that, 1521 01:19:44,736 --> 01:19:46,999 just that little part of her, 1522 01:19:47,086 --> 01:19:50,133 that little part that we had left. 1523 01:19:50,263 --> 01:19:53,527 Yeah, I guess it's okay to wanna protect 1524 01:19:53,614 --> 01:19:55,529 the little parts in between 1525 01:19:55,616 --> 01:19:59,664 and how hard it was for you and me in the end. 1526 01:20:01,840 --> 01:20:04,103 But your mom's life was so much more 1527 01:20:04,190 --> 01:20:06,062 than what she gave you and me. 1528 01:20:06,149 --> 01:20:09,935 She gave so much to so many. 1529 01:20:11,110 --> 01:20:13,678 Kind of like you're doing now. 1530 01:20:15,462 --> 01:20:17,508 All of those things? 1531 01:20:17,595 --> 01:20:21,120 The gifts that you and your mother were given, 1532 01:20:21,207 --> 01:20:23,122 they're not just for you and me. 1533 01:20:27,997 --> 01:20:31,522 Thank you, dad, for being the best. 1534 01:20:31,652 --> 01:20:32,523 Hm. 1535 01:20:39,878 --> 01:20:41,619 - Thanks, dad. - Of course. 1536 01:20:42,185 --> 01:20:43,360 Mikaela? 1537 01:20:44,927 --> 01:20:46,058 - Hey. Hey. 1538 01:20:46,189 --> 01:20:49,975 I'm sorry for being me, sometimes. 1539 01:20:50,062 --> 01:20:53,326 But I think you should see this. 1540 01:20:55,720 --> 01:20:56,677 Okay. 1541 01:21:22,921 --> 01:21:25,663 Cheers to the retreat! 1542 01:21:25,750 --> 01:21:27,056 To the retreat! 1543 01:21:33,366 --> 01:21:37,196 So, what are the chances you might come out again next year? 1544 01:21:37,283 --> 01:21:40,112 To write your next cookbook, perhaps? 1545 01:21:40,199 --> 01:21:41,679 Well, I told Mikaela when I arrived 1546 01:21:41,766 --> 01:21:45,988 that, uh, I would retire here. 1547 01:21:46,075 --> 01:21:49,426 So I'd say it was very probable. 1548 01:21:50,906 --> 01:21:52,255 Oh. 1549 01:21:52,385 --> 01:21:54,083 No, but I really do love Broadway. 1550 01:21:54,213 --> 01:21:56,259 - So I'm so excited. I know. Well, I am too. 1551 01:21:56,389 --> 01:21:58,435 So you can come anytime. I can't wait, it's... 1552 01:21:58,565 --> 01:22:01,917 Look at the two. Look at Mitchell. 1553 01:22:02,047 --> 01:22:05,094 So, you two gonna write this script together now or what? 1554 01:22:05,181 --> 01:22:07,879 Uh, I think so. 1555 01:22:08,010 --> 01:22:09,446 Keifer's just really good with details in a way 1556 01:22:09,533 --> 01:22:11,535 that I am not. 1557 01:22:11,665 --> 01:22:13,667 I also think I might be moving to Los Angeles soon. 1558 01:22:13,798 --> 01:22:17,193 I just have to figure out a real job first. 1559 01:22:17,280 --> 01:22:19,151 Oh, don't worry about that. We'll help you find something. 1560 01:22:19,238 --> 01:22:21,545 Oh, well, I can help you with a job. 1561 01:22:21,632 --> 01:22:24,548 I'm looking for an LA assistant myself right now 1562 01:22:24,678 --> 01:22:26,245 for when I go back to New York in the spring 1563 01:22:26,332 --> 01:22:28,900 and I think that you would just be perfect for it. 1564 01:22:28,987 --> 01:22:30,162 - Seriously? - Yeah. 1565 01:22:30,293 --> 01:22:32,164 You say the words, and it's yours. 1566 01:22:32,295 --> 01:22:34,950 - Just like Christmas magic! 1567 01:22:35,037 --> 01:22:36,473 See? Told you this is how it works. 1568 01:22:36,603 --> 01:22:37,778 It's all about who you know. 1569 01:22:37,909 --> 01:22:39,302 Well, then to who you know. 1570 01:22:39,389 --> 01:22:41,869 - Cheers. - Cheers. 1571 01:22:41,957 --> 01:22:44,089 Oh, and what are the chances 1572 01:22:44,176 --> 01:22:46,483 we can get you to sing your new song for us? 1573 01:22:46,613 --> 01:22:49,703 Oh, please! 1574 01:22:49,834 --> 01:22:51,270 It would be an honor. 1575 01:22:51,357 --> 01:22:52,663 - Yes! - Oh, yay! 1576 01:22:52,750 --> 01:22:56,058 - Now. - Okay. All right. 1577 01:23:07,156 --> 01:23:12,074 ♪ Counting down the days for the seasons to change ♪ 1578 01:23:12,161 --> 01:23:16,774 ♪ I feel a love that's true it makes the heart feel new ♪ 1579 01:23:16,861 --> 01:23:21,692 ♪ Years can fade away but the memories will stay ♪ 1580 01:23:21,822 --> 01:23:25,391 ♪ No matter how far how apart ♪ 1581 01:23:25,478 --> 01:23:30,875 ♪ I know love will find a way ♪ 1582 01:23:30,962 --> 01:23:36,228 ♪ Love will find a way ♪ 1583 01:23:36,315 --> 01:23:42,147 ♪ Love will find a way ♪ 1584 01:23:42,278 --> 01:23:45,498 ♪ Love will always ♪ 1585 01:23:45,585 --> 01:23:49,546 ♪ Find a way ♪ 1586 01:23:58,207 --> 01:23:59,208 So... 1587 01:24:00,948 --> 01:24:03,429 why are you back here, Levi? 1588 01:24:03,560 --> 01:24:05,605 Well, I didn't come back for my folder, 1589 01:24:05,692 --> 01:24:08,434 which I honestly was planning to shred when I got back. 1590 01:24:08,521 --> 01:24:09,392 You were just planning to shred it? 1591 01:24:09,479 --> 01:24:11,394 Yeah, I was, until your dad asked me 1592 01:24:11,524 --> 01:24:11,568 to come back 'cause I forgot it. 1593 01:24:11,698 --> 01:24:13,918 Oh. 1594 01:24:14,005 --> 01:24:15,659 So my father is the reason 1595 01:24:15,746 --> 01:24:18,662 that you returned. 1596 01:24:18,749 --> 01:24:21,534 It's only short-lived, I swear. 1597 01:24:21,621 --> 01:24:24,537 That is, unless my one true Christmas wish 1598 01:24:24,668 --> 01:24:27,453 to be forgiven is in the cards. 1599 01:24:27,540 --> 01:24:31,588 So, you had one wish, to be let in to the retreat, 1600 01:24:31,718 --> 01:24:33,068 and now you have another wish, 1601 01:24:33,198 --> 01:24:36,071 to be forgiven and to be able to stay? 1602 01:24:36,158 --> 01:24:38,551 I never said anything about staying, 1603 01:24:38,638 --> 01:24:40,771 but considering the snow that's coming in, 1604 01:24:40,858 --> 01:24:43,295 that might be nice as well. 1605 01:24:43,382 --> 01:24:44,818 I read the retrospect. 1606 01:24:44,905 --> 01:24:48,909 Old-school messy handwriting, too. 1607 01:24:48,996 --> 01:24:51,521 Impressive. 1608 01:24:51,651 --> 01:24:53,436 My mother would have been proud of the story 1609 01:24:53,566 --> 01:24:55,351 you're trying to tell about her life. 1610 01:24:55,481 --> 01:24:59,616 To be honest, I'm just sad it's taken me this long 1611 01:24:59,703 --> 01:25:01,313 to be able to share it, too. 1612 01:25:01,444 --> 01:25:04,534 Look, I'm sorry for taking advantage of that trust. 1613 01:25:04,664 --> 01:25:09,365 The things you shared to me about you, her, the retreat... 1614 01:25:09,452 --> 01:25:12,063 Those were stories that needed to be told. 1615 01:25:12,150 --> 01:25:14,805 So thank you for bringing them back to life. 1616 01:25:16,023 --> 01:25:17,764 For bringing me back to life, Levi. 1617 01:25:17,851 --> 01:25:19,940 Hey. 1618 01:25:20,027 --> 01:25:24,293 You finishing your book, that's all you. 1619 01:25:25,903 --> 01:25:28,645 I'm in awe of you, Mikaela. 1620 01:25:31,648 --> 01:25:32,823 By the way, did you, did you finish it? 1621 01:25:32,910 --> 01:25:34,912 - I did. - Oh, yeah? 1622 01:25:34,999 --> 01:25:38,698 Okay, so look, I got one question 1623 01:25:38,785 --> 01:25:39,873 because a lot of people are gonna be asking... 1624 01:25:39,960 --> 01:25:41,005 Mm-hmm. 1625 01:25:42,398 --> 01:25:43,703 Did Maya finally find love? 1626 01:25:43,790 --> 01:25:45,923 She did. 1627 01:25:46,010 --> 01:25:49,056 And it was with that pain-in-the-butt Jerome 1628 01:25:49,144 --> 01:25:51,668 that she never got along with. 1629 01:25:51,798 --> 01:25:55,846 The one that challenged her, 1630 01:25:55,933 --> 01:25:57,848 the one that made her challenge herself. 1631 01:25:57,935 --> 01:26:02,418 But I am glad that Maya finally got 1632 01:26:02,505 --> 01:26:04,289 her happily ever after. 1633 01:26:04,376 --> 01:26:07,988 So what about you? Are you gonna find yours? 1634 01:26:10,382 --> 01:26:13,516 How about we start 1635 01:26:13,603 --> 01:26:16,823 by going to your grams' crazy holiday party tomorrow? 1636 01:26:18,608 --> 01:26:20,262 And then, I don't know... 1637 01:26:21,088 --> 01:26:23,656 figure out the rest as we go along. 1638 01:26:23,743 --> 01:26:25,658 I like that. Yeah. 1639 01:26:27,443 --> 01:26:29,706 Merry Christmas, Mikaela. 1640 01:26:29,793 --> 01:26:31,011 Merry Christmas. 1641 01:26:43,894 --> 01:26:45,896 You want some? 1642 01:26:56,080 --> 01:27:02,434 ♪ Counting down the days for the seasons to change ♪ 1643 01:27:02,521 --> 01:27:07,874 ♪ I feel a love that's true it makes the heart feel new ♪ 1644 01:27:08,005 --> 01:27:13,053 ♪ Years can fade away but the memories will stay ♪ 1645 01:27:13,184 --> 01:27:15,752 ♪ No matter how far how apart ♪ 1646 01:27:15,882 --> 01:27:21,105 ♪ I know love will find a way ♪ 1647 01:27:21,192 --> 01:27:26,284 ♪ Love will find a way ♪ 1648 01:27:26,371 --> 01:27:32,247 ♪ Love will find a way ♪ 1649 01:27:32,334 --> 01:27:34,858 ♪ Love will always ♪ 1650 01:27:34,945 --> 01:27:39,776 ♪ Find a way ♪ 1651 01:27:50,439 --> 01:27:55,618 ♪ I see the guiding light within the winter's night ♪ 1652 01:27:55,748 --> 01:27:57,010 ♪ I found what I was looking for ♪ 1653 01:27:57,097 --> 01:28:00,231 ♪ But almost lost much more ♪ 1654 01:28:00,318 --> 01:28:06,281 ♪ But now I see you there with so much life to share ♪ 1655 01:28:06,368 --> 01:28:08,108 ♪ And no matter how far how apart ♪ 1656 01:28:08,195 --> 01:28:14,158 ♪ I know love will find a way ♪ 1657 01:28:14,245 --> 01:28:19,642 ♪ Love will find a way ♪ 1658 01:28:19,729 --> 01:28:25,648 ♪ Love will find a way ♪ 1659 01:28:25,735 --> 01:28:29,173 ♪ Love will always ♪ 1660 01:28:29,260 --> 01:28:33,482 ♪ Find a way ♪ 1661 01:28:43,927 --> 01:28:48,975 ♪ Counting down the days for the seasons to change ♪ 1662 01:28:49,062 --> 01:28:51,674 ♪ I feel a love that's true ♪ 1663 01:28:51,804 --> 01:28:55,634 ♪ I found it all in you ♪