Our Christmas Mural (2023)

[bunniefuu]

I've been working harder

and more efficient

Stepping up,

searching for inspiration

Channeling your inner Pollock?

Hey, Hayden!

No, this is just

good old fashioned rage.

I got tired of the blank canvas

staring back at me.

Do you need me out front? I'm

just finishing my lunch break.

No, no, we got you covered.

Just wanted to chat with you

when you have a sec.

Come up to my office

when you're done.

Take your time.

Good progress.

Progress.

What I'll do is

send it over to you...

Let me call you right back.

Olivia, hi. Come in.

Just close the door

behind you there.

Have a seat.

Look, I know I have been

saying this every week,

but you've been

absolutely k*lling it.

I'm serious, you are

one of the best curators

the NYGYA has ever had.

-Thank you.

-You're welcome.

Which is why

this is so difficult.

I found out that our grant

hasn't been renewed

and unfortunately, we're

not going to be

able to keep all of our staff.

-I don't have a job?

-No, no, no, I didn't say that.

I live in Williamsburg

and it's Christmas

and I don't have a job?

Olivia, you still have a job.

You have a job for now,

but I don't know what next year

is going to look like.

And I'm sorry 'cause I know that

this isn't the news you wanted

to hear before you went back

home for your Christmas break.

It's just that I wanted to give

you plenty of heads up

as a friend in case... you

wanted to start looking.

Come on, Parker,

let's get going.

What are we gonna

do about this?

Can I keep it?

You really like it?

I think it looks like

one of those...

What's her name? Jackie Pollock?

Jackson Pollock.

He's a dude.

Are you sure Santa

won't get confused

that we'll be in New Hampshire

this year instead of New York?

Well, the guy does deliver

presents to the entire world.

I doubt this is the first time

that's come up.

Okay.

How about I ask

grandpa to text Santa

and tell him that we'll be

at their place this year?

-Does that sound good?

-Can you have grandma do it?

Grandpa really doesn't know

how to use his phone.

Good call.

Watch your head, kiddo.

It's Christmas time

Can you see

all the snow falling?

We got to have a good time

together

Do you see the lights, buddy?

Yeah, so nice.

Pretty beautiful, huh?

Here they are.

My early Christmas presents.

-Hi!

-Grandma! Grandpa!

Ah, come here sport.

Ooh.

Oh, there's a fresh batch

of cookies

someone needs to

taste test for me.

- I'll do it for you, grandma.

- Okay, have at it.

Have you guys been waiting out

here the whole drive over?

A couple hours, give or take.

And still getting

used to this retirement thing.

That sounds like

a lovely problem.

Go give your mama a

hug. You know how she gets.

-Oh, good to see you.

-Hmmm.

We're so excited you came up

for Christmas this year.

Us, too. Sorry, I...

-I know it's overdue.

-And how's Parker?

I saw that he had

Tom's plate with him.

Is he still having

trouble in school?

Well, his grades are better,

but he's still having a hard

time making friends.

Aww.

I think it's gonna be really

good for him to be back here.

I know I'm excited to take

a couple weeks off work

and have a nice,

relaxing Christmas.

Parker, you can have

one more cookie, okay, bud?

Then it's time for bed.

Okay, mom. Coming!

-Morning, everyone.

-Hey!

-Hey, morning!

-Hey, bud.

Have you brushed

your teeth yet?

No.

Perfect timing, kiddo.

Just made a fresh pot.

You sleep okay?

Yeah.

It's always a little weird

sleeping in there.

It's like a time capsule to

my awkward teenage years.

Uh-oh.

I think the only thing

that's different

is seeing my painting

on the wall.

Well, it's only right

that the painting hangs

in the artist's room.

We're hanging on to it to sell,

when you make it big.

So hurry up.

Uh, so, are you

painting anything new?

Trying. I'm just, um...

I guess you could say

inspiration's been

a little dry

the past couple years.

Oh, give it time, honey.

You'll feel that spark again.

I know it.

Yeah, actually, I was thinking

maybe I'll use my time

while here to give it a go.

Oh.

Does this town have

a proper art store yet?

Sure. Aisles eight through ten

at the Wellington Hardware.

Thanks, man. Appreciate it.

We need all the entries

we can get.

Yeah, of course.

Happy to help.

So, uh, we still

on for tonight?

Tribune night is literally

the only social event

in my calendar.

See you there.

You in town

for the Winter Walk?

-Sorry?

-Saw you eyeing the poster.

It's a big deal around here,

people come from all over

to walk Wellington Drive.

Taking the decorations.

Oh, yeah. I-I know.

I grew up here, so I used to

go every year with my parents.

Well, sh**t. Look at me blabbing

on like you're a tourist.

No, it's okay.

I haven't been back for the

past couple of Christmases.

It looks like things have

changed, though.

I don't remember a mural

being part of the celebration.

That's a new addition,

thanks to yours truly.

This will be the first year

we try it.

I wish there had been something

like it when I was a kid.

I might have stuck around

a little longer

rather than hopping on

the first train to New York.

New York?

You're Mack

and Betty's daughter.

That's right.

I forgot how small

this town is.

Cody, nice to meet you.

You're an artist, right?

Your mom talked my ear off about

you when she saw the poster.

Of course, she did.

Never misses an opportunity.

But, um, yeah. I paint.

Though not as much lately.

Any interest in entering?

Application's easy.

Just submit a piece.

We're choosing

an artist tomorrow.

You can make it

just under the wire.

Oh. Um...

I'm okay, thanks.

I've been trying just to

paint more for me lately.

No-no need to explain.

I just had to ask.

But if you change your mind,

I'll be here, okay?

Sounds good. Thanks, Cody.

See you around.

You okay over there?

-Yeah, I'm fine.

-Here, let me help.

Thank you.

Did I just see you

outside town hall?

Oh, yeah. You might have.

I was admiring the view.

Of the Christmas trees.

Trees. Yeah.

-I'm Will, by the way.

-I'm Olivia.

Nice to meet you.

-Um...

-Oh, yeah.

-Oh, no, you don't...

-That's okay.

-You don't have to help me.

-That's all right.

I was coming back

to this section anyway.

I was hoping to find.

Oh, there it is.

-There it is.

-Oh. Um...

Actually, I was hoping

to snag that one.

It's-it's the last

Mistletoe Green.

I know. I realized

I was one short.

The good news for you

is you've still got some

Chartreuse and some Shamrock

to choose from.

I don't want Shamrock.

I'm not painting a leprechaun.

I'm pretty particular

about my colors.

Okay.

I think I have a solution.

Now, I'm gonna let you in

on a little secret.

Something pretty magical happens

when you mix these two together.

You're serious?

You're not gonna give me

one of your tubes?

-You've got like a dozen.

-I have ten.

And ten is

exactly how many I need.

Believe me, if I could

spare one, I would, but...

Tell you what. I'm just gonna

leave these here with you.

And I'm gonna be on my way.

You have a great day.

This is crazy.

You're crazy!

That man is hoarding paint!

Merry Christmas.

I think you're gonna need

a clean-up in aisle eight.

She's an old friend.

Unbelievable.

I'm still mad about it.

Well, maybe he really

did need all that paint.

Some kind of art emergency.

I would really love for you

to be on my side,

instead of some anecdotal man

you've never met.

Well, if it helps,

sweetheart, I don't like him.

Thank you, dad.

Maybe you should channel

that rage into your art.

You know, paint a really

mean tree or something.

Yeah, I tried,

but nothing came to me.

Just another blank canvas.

Hey, did you guys hear about

this Christmas mural contest

they're doing for

the Winter Walk?

This guy Cody said that he

talked to you about it, mom.

Oh, he was so nice.

And of course,

we texted you about it.

-No, you didn't.

-No?

Trust me, I remember.

It was about a week ago.

And I told your father

to take a picture

of the poster and to send it to

you. Tell her, honey.

That's true,

she did, yeah.

Here, I'll,

I'll prove it to you.

I got it right here.

Here we are.

Oh.

I-I may have texted our

DoorDash delivery guy instead.

Would appreciate

any response, Greg.

You see why I wanted

grandma to text Santa?

Regardless, now you know.

And I'll tell you now what I

would have told you then.

You should enter.

-Mm-hmm.

-Mom.

Yes, yes, I know

you've hit a dry spell

but maybe this is the nudge you

need to start painting again.

You know, light a fire

under you.

Only one way to find out,

sweetie.

Well, even if I

did want to enter,

I'd have to submit a piece

just to be considered.

And there's no way

that I could paint something

decent by tomorrow.

Even at my best.

It's just not in the cards

right now.

It has been way too long.

-New York is not that far away.

-I know.

I'm sorry we haven't been back

for Christmas

the past couple years.

It's just with Tom

and everything.

Yeah.

Anyway, I really appreciate

you staying in touch

through it all.

Of course, I am always

here for you,

even though you abandoned me

for your cool friends in NYC.

So how are things

at Wellington Elementary?

Are you over teaching yet?

Hmm, no, not yet. Still love it.

Except I have to

look into their sweet,

youthful faces every day

and reflect

on my own mortality.

Other than that, it's peachy.

Mm. How about you?

How's life as a fancy New York

art curator?

It's a little shaky.

We just found out

that we lost our funding.

And so I'm not sure how long

my position is gonna last.

I'm so sorry Olivia.

You know, we're feeling

that at school, too.

I have a friend in

administration who thinks

our art programs are

going to be axed next.

But you're a rockstar

over there.

I'm sure your job's fine.

And in the meantime, you can

focus on your painting.

Oh, no. Oh, no.

Still no luck on that front?

Man, I am batting a 1,000 here.

I'm trying, but I don't know.

Nothing's coming to me.

It's like I'm paralyzed every

time I pick up a paintbrush.

It's a really fun,

creative space to live in.

Ah...

I should probably get going.

I'm meeting Parker

and my parents at town hall

for the announcement

about who won the contest.

The least I can do is

support the cause.

Thank you.

I'll catch you later.

Thank you to all the artists

who presented

their best winter art.

As you know, the winner

will design

our town's new Christmas mural

in his or her own style

of choice.

The Community Services

Department

reviewed all of the

incredible pieces of art

that have been submitted

over the past week.

And even though

we had some late entries

to account for even one

being dropped off this morning,

we're pleased to announce

we've selected a winner.

But first...

I'd like to congratulate

our runner up

who'll receive

a gift certificate

to Wellington Hardware.

Let's hear it for

Will Campbell!

Thank you.

Is that my painting?

Mom.

- Tell me you did not do this.

- Ladies and gentlemen...

- I don't know what you mean.

- I give to you...

the first winner of the

Wellington Winter Walk's

inaugural Christmas mural

contest.

Oh! Oh!

And here's the artist now.

Fashionably late, but she's

living in New York these days,

so we forgive her.

Please welcome Olivia Carver.

- You won.

- Come on up.

Congratulations, Olivia.

How about a few words?

Ah...

Um...

Thank you so much

for selecting me.

Uh...

Go mom!

Aww, how cute.

Everyone, please join us

for the official

mural unveiling on our

Christmas

block party in two weeks.

I think I speak for

Wellington when I say

we're very excited to see where

your imagination leads you.

So the space itself hasn't been

used for about a year,

but the wall you'll be painting

is in a prime spot.

Come on.

A lot of traffic is gonna

pass this way.

We're right at the end

of the Winter Walk.

Anybody driving through town

or strolling the shops

is gonna see your work.

Wouldn't that be something?

I still have to show you

the best part.

Come on.

So technically, the Community

Services Department

still owns this space

but ever since we renovated the

community room at town hall,

we haven't really had

a use for it.

Figured you could

use it to work.

She's all yours.

If you need anything,

give me a ring at town hall.

And one last thing.

Good luck.

Thanks, Cody.

Pretty big canvas to work with.

What are you doing here?

Have you come to

steal some more paint?

Well, I hate to break it to you,

but I have not bought any yet.

No, no, nothing like that.

I just came to see

what could have been.

Don't get me wrong, I'm,

I'm very proud

to be runner up,

but I was this close to

getting my first real gig.

I'm sorry.

Yeah, yeah, there goes

my big sh*t down the drain,

which I guess makes us rivals.

Well, don't worry,

I am not a 100% sure

that I'm even doing it yet.

So you still have some hope.

What?

That paint that you stole,

it didn't go to waste.

Your piece was really good

as much as I hate to admit it.

I've always been a fan

of impressionism.

Thank you.

I went through a big

Monet phase in college.

-Hm. Didn't we all?

-I mean, we're only human.

Um, congratulations.

And I really am looking forward

to seeing what you paint.

Thanks.

But-but just so you know,

if you do chicken out,

I will be there to swoop in

and do what you couldn't.

Wow, you know,

we were so close

to actually having

a nice moment there.

-Honestly, it's a gift.

-Huh.

Well, goodbye.

Try not to freeze out here.

I hope your mural doesn't need

any Mistletoe Green.

Wow, everyone is quite

industrious this evening.

Well, you know what they say

about idle hands.

-Thank you.

-Hm.

Parker, I'm so glad you're

doing this with grandpa.

He's been itching

for some new projects

now that he's home

all the time.

-I'll keep him busy.

-Yeah.

Good work.

Is this art I see

unfolding around me?

I'm just trying to jot down

some design ideas

for the mural.

And how's that going?

Okay.

Well, even though

it is an uphill battle,

I'm glad to see you giving it

some serious thought.

Well, the least I can do is

go down swinging,

especially with Will on standby

waiting for me to fail.

Will?

The paint thief from

the hardware store.

-Oh.

-He was the runner up.

And he ambushed me

at the mural today.

-Oh.

-He's so frustrating.

I've never met someone

who can bounce from sweet

to obnoxious so gracefully.

That's interesting.

No, it is not like that.

So you can just get

that thought out of your head.

I-I didn't say anything.

Wow.

Hey, I heard you had

coffee with Ivy today.

You guys haven't palled around

in a while.

Yeah, it was really great

catching up.

Good.

I'm actually taking Parker

to visit her at the school

tomorrow.

Apparently, there's this great

after school art class

that one of her colleagues runs.

Mom, do I haveto go?

Come on, bud.

I bet it'll be fun.

Trust me, you are both

gonna like the art teacher.

It is so weird being back here.

I know. I have to remind myself

that I'm the adult here.

Oh, we're walking, please.

All right, Parker,

you are going to love

our art project today.

And you're gonna love our new

art teacher. Ready? Okay.

And remember everyone,

we wanna paint

all the sides

of our ornament, right?

We don't want any bad angles.

Oh, hey.

So listen up, everybody.

We have a special guest today.

What's your name, bud?

His name's Parker.

Great.

Parker, welcome.

Let's get you set up. Okay?

Got a little spot for you

right over here.

Yeah, lucky for you,

one of our regulars

couldn't make it in today.

Which means

you don't have to share.

That's for you.

You good to get started

while I go talk to your mom

for a sec?

Great. I'll be right back.

You know,

if you wanted to see me,

you didn't have to hire a child

to pretend to be your son.

Wow.

You are really something.

Hm, that's what they tell me.

She told you we've met already?

No.

This is the guy

I was telling you about

from the paint store.

Oh, wow, you're the paint thief.

Okay, that nickname's

really taking off.

Well, at least Parker and the

other children can benefit

from the spoils

of my criminal enterprise.

You could have told me

that you were buying supplies

for a children's after school

art program.

Yeah, but I'm not

the bragging type.

I'm just your average,

humble, down to earth,

handsome, talented,

selfless public educator

who is changing children's

lives one at a time.

Well, it's nice of you

to drop by.

Um, you're welcome to hang out,

but if you two have plans,

I'll be with the kids

for another hour or so.

Looking good, Parker.

Still up for coffee?

I don't know.

Um, maybe I should

stick around for a while

and make sure Parker's okay.

So let me guess.

This is Santa's dirty socks,

right?

-They're stockings.

-Oh, stockings.

Yeah, I knew that.

I knew that.

Why don't you wait here

a minute?

I'll go get my jacket

and if you're still feeling

uneasy when I get back, we can

rain check, okay. Sound good?

Yeah. Okay.

Hey, uh, would it be okay if I

pulled up a chair

and painted next to you?

It's kind of lonely

up at my desk.

Sure.

Yeah. Thanks.

I'll be right back.

All right, all set.

How are we feeling?

You know what?

Let's go get that coffee.

Great.

Bye.

Nice.

Do you think we need

one more or...?

What are you, stalking me now?

No. I found you

via legitimate means.

I interrogated Ivy.

Sorry, I hope I'm not

interrupting. I'm Will.

Will, Mack. Nice to meet you.

Uh, I just wanted to talk

to you about something

before but I didn't want to

bring it up in front of Parker.

Um, but if now is not

a good time.

You know, actually, I was

just gonna head inside

and scope out

the base of operations.

Why don't you two, uh,

chat while she works?

Okay. Thanks, Mack.

-Nice meeting you.

-You too.

So? What's up?

Yeah, I just wanted to

ask you--

I wanted to ask you something

about Parker, actually.

Oh.

It's okay. Nothing's wrong.

He did great in class.

I just noticed that he's, uh,

I guess a little apprehensive

around other kids.

Oh. Um...

Yeah.

He's been having some trouble

the past couple of years.

He used to be such

an outgoing kid and then...

when his dad d*ed

he just sort of...

That's gotta be really tough

for both of you.

Have you tried

art therapy for Parker?

Yes. Once. In New York.

-But it didn't really take.

-Hmm.

Why?

Well...

I kinda know what

Parker's going through

and I thought I might help him

the way that it helped me.

My dad passed

when I was thirteen.

Oh, wow.

-I'm so sorry, Will.

-Yeah.

I really didn't know

how to process it at the time.

And art therapy just worked.

So I'm actually

a certified art therapist.

Anyway, all that to say,

if you want

I would be happy to

sit down with Parker.

That's really generous.

But we're heading home

in a couple weeks. So...

Yeah. Right. I get it.

If you change your mind though,

I'll be around.

Winter break just started

so I've got plenty of time

on my hands.

Thank you.

I'll-I'll think about it.

Okay.

You're staying in town

for the holidays?

You know, if you're looking

for something to do...

Oh. Okay.

Yeah. Yeah, let's do it.

So I guess it's kinda like I am

working on the mural after all.

Oh, texting with Will.

Mom!

Boundaries!

It was right there. Sorry.

And you're welcome for the

freshly baked cookies

by the way.

I'll go get you some milk.

Mom, I'm an adult woman.

I don't need a glass of milk.

Oh, don't be silly. You love

milk with your cookies.

I'll be right back.

As an artist,

I need you to level with me.

Do either of these ideas work?

I think there are

elements of each that work.

I knew it. They're terrible.

U-un, that's not what I said.

Look, there's good stuff

in here.

I think you just need to...

distill it down into

a unifying theme.

You know?

Okay, uh, what do you

like about this one?

I like the colors

and the composition.

Mm-hmm.

It feels almost dreamlike.

Which is kinda how I remember

Wellington as a kid.

That's great.

And how about this one?

Well, obviously I love it

because it reminds me of Parker.

It feels like that special kind

of Christmas magic.

Warm and cozy and... comforting.

Can't argue with that.

Is it crazy to try to do both?

To come up with a design

that showcases the Winter Walk

but is also more...

personal and-and intimate?

Honestly...

I think that's a great idea.

-Okay.

-Okay.

So all I have to do is

finalize a design,

buy supplies, prep the wall...

overcome my creative block

and flawlessly execute

a public art project

in a week and a half

by Christmas Eve.

Okay, but the good news is

you're not alone.

You've got your parents, you've

got Parker, you've got me.

I bet we could rope

Cody and Ivy into it also.

Actually, yeah, I've been

looking for an excuse

to get those two

in a room together.

I set them up on a date

a while ago

and apparently

it did not go well.

Ivy's been holding a grudge

against Cody ever since.

Maybe this could help them

bury the hatchet.

Okay.

I'm making a mental note

to get the details

about that from Ivy ASAP.

Are you sure

that you wanna help?

You're not just... being nice?

Um, well actually

I am being nice

because I'm nice.

-Okay.

-Mm-hmm.

I think I need to just

bite the b*llet and get started.

All right.

Let's get started.

Hm.

Hey, perfect timing.

We were just about to

get started.

-You have your lists?

-Oh, yeah.

Olivia, did you see

the sales section?

Well, I wasn't expecting

to see you here.

Hey, Ivy, um, how are you?

I've been fine ever since

you stood me up.

Come on, I didn't stand you up.

I left in the middle

of the date.

Okay, I know that isn't better.

You left me with the bill

at a fancy restaurant

so you could go play bingo.

I venmoed you

and I didn't play bingo.

I hosted bingo at town hall.

Our normal guy flaked.

I couldn't just abandon

the senior group.

No, so you just abandoned me.

I can see that there are

still some fresh wounds here.

How about we split up

tackle our lists separately

and maybe cool off a little bit?

That is a great idea.

So, Ivy, you will come

and grab some paint with me

and, um, Cody and Will, you're

on, uh, tools and equipment.

Let me just remind everyone,

we're dealing with

a limited budget.

Until projects like this gain

traction, the Community

Services Department

has tight purse strings.

That's fine,

I'm sure you'll just

stick us with the bill anyway.

Okay, enough reminiscing.

You couldn't have warned me

I was walking into an ambush?

Oh, no, I could have.

Wow, if I had known

it was that bad,

I would have had

Will tell Cody to stay home.

I'm fine. I'm over it.

I just wanted to see him squirm.

So...

you and Will are

getting pretty chummy?

Yeah, well, turns out when he's

not being obnoxious,

he's actually kind of nice

and helpful.

Mm-hmm.

Nice and helpful and hot.

Okay, pump the brakes.

My mom already

jumped to that conclusion.

Oh, come on. Stop acting

like it's a crazy thought.

Nothing wrong with

thinking someone's cute.

Cute has nothing to do with it.

We're just collaborating.

You don't have to

look too far into it.

Yeah, we actually have another

session booked for tonight.

See? And you really still think

there's nothing more going on?

Look, until she gives me

reason to believe otherwise,

there's nothing romantic

happening, okay?

Olivia, I see you've been busy.

My dad mentioned

that he was going to

stop by and clean today.

Said I needed a proper studio

to work with.

Huh, so despite Cody

abandoning this place,

it's thriving, too.

-Sounds familiar.

-Ha ha.

Okay, enough lollygagging.

There's still plenty of supplies

to bring in from outside.

Right.

Thank you.

All right, have a look.

You can choose

whatever you'd like, Parker.

Want to paint for an hour?

We can do that.

Want to pound some clay

and make a sculpture?

That's cool, too.

Oh, I think he has

his eye on something.

What do you see?

The pastels.

Excellent choice.

Very expressive.

What should I draw?

Honestly, anything you want.

This is all about you.

How you're feeling right now.

I'm just here to guide you

as much

or as little as you need.

Would it be okay if your mom

and I joined you?

Yeah? Nice.

Okay, you've got a pad.

Let's give one to your mom.

And I get one, too.

So... I'll tell you

how I'm feeling.

I'm feeling a bit nostalgic.

I think I'm gonna draw one of

my favorite Christmas memories.

One year, my parents

got me a hockey set

and me and my family

spent all day

sh**ting goals on

a frozen pond near our house.

That's what I'm gonna draw.

You already know

what you wanna draw?

I wanna draw my favorite

Christmas present, too.

Let me guess,

it was a helicopter.

No.

-I'm drawing my train set.

-What?

You're telling me Santa got

a whole train down the chimney?

It's a toy train.

Santa brought it, but my dad

helped me set it up.

Dad sounds pretty cool.

Yeah. He's in heaven now.

I'm sorry, Parker.

I know that's not easy.

Actually, I was only a couple

years older than you are

when my dad went to heaven.

Really?

You know... I miss him a lot.

He was the best.

But I know he's looking

down on me, even right now.

If you want, I can tell you

all about him

while we do our drawing.

Yeah?

- Your stuff?

- Yeah.

Okay.

Whew. I feel that cold wind.

Well, Parker, I think you did

a great job today.

And this turned out so well.

Good job.

Olivia, you have some homework.

Hey, bud.

Can you make sure that your mom

has at least something drawn

before our next session?

-I got you covered.

-Yeah.

That's my guy.

-Our next session?

-Yeah.

I figured if you're both

up for it

before you head back

to the city.

I want to thank you, Will.

I know this means a lot

to Parker and...

it means a lot to me, too.

Mom, can you start the car?

I'm freezing.

Yeah, bud. I'll-I'll

be right there.

Well...

-I should probably--

-Yeah.

Um, are you sure

that you're-you're okay

to-to lock up?

Yeah, yeah. I've got to

clean up anyway, so...

-Okay.

-It's all good.

Okay.

-Um, thanks again, Will.

-You got it.

It's absolutely beautiful.

Parker's first Christmas.

He was the best gift anyone

could have asked for.

I don't know what happened.

I was thinking about Parker,

and how easily

he started his drawing.

Something just clicked.

My hand started

moving on its own.

Well, it must have been tough,

putting this down on paper.

I'm proud of you.

At any rate, it should

help with the mural, right?

Have the creative floodgates

been opened?

Drawing this was one thing.

Painting a huge mural

for everyone to see?

That's a whole

different animal.

But I'm ready to try.

Ah, good.

What do you mean by a moment?

We were standing out front,

saying goodnight, and...

I don't know. It felt like

something could have happened.

And?

-Did it?

-No, of course not.

Don't say it

like its ridiculous.

You're both young,

single, attractive...

Aww, thanks, man.

I'm just saying,

what's the holdup?

Don't get me wrong, okay?

I wanted to kiss her.

But, you know,

Parker was there...

And I guess I feel like

it's not my place to

make a move like that.

Olivia needs to decide

when it's right.

For her, and for Parker.

Sure, I get that.

But don't you think last night

might have been

some kind of indication

she's into you?

It was basically a date.

Me doing art therapy

with her son? That was a date?

Wouldn't even

breach the top five

of the weirdest first dates

I've been on.

I don't know.

You really think she might have

considered last night a date?

If I were her,

I'd date you before

letting you give

my kid therapy.

-Hey.

-Whoa.

Uh...

Was that a wreath?

Yes, but I was aiming at Cody.

Oh, well, now I see why

you became an artist.

Wow, what happened in here?

It looks great.

Well, I figured we're gonna be

spending a lot of time here.

Might as well make it festive.

How'd he rope you into this?

I honestly don't know.

I should be at town hall.

And now that you're here,

I feel less guilty

about leaving.

Ornaments exchange tonight,

you guys.

And I noticed that wall

is still alarmingly blank.

Don't worry, that is

going to change very soon.

Good luck.

Thanks, man. See you later.

So are we actually

gonna go paint,

or were you just

trying to get rid of Cody?

A little bit of both.

I figured we could start

by finishing up

the actual mural frame.

And I'll tell you all about my

new design idea.

New design idea?

Now you're talking.

Well, lead the way.

So yeah, most of the design

would be more traditional,

kind of like

the Norman Rockwell idea,

but with some

different styles thrown in.

So the trees and the mountains

could be more

classical landscape style.

And then throw in some lights

and Christmas decorations

for the holidays.

Maybe some surrealism.

Couple of nutcrackers melting.

Seriously, I think

that sounds great.

It's ambitious, but it's great.

I wanted to thank you again,

Will,

for last night.

It was really wonderful.

And not just

because I'm feeling inspired.

Parker is so proud

of his drawing.

He would not stop talking

about you at breakfast.

Well, I'm glad I could help.

Oh, that reminds me.

My homework, as requested.

Oh. Okay.

Oh, wow.

-Is that...?

-It's Tom with Parker.

It's my favorite

Christmas memory.

It's beautiful.

Like I said, if, um, if Parker

wants to do

another session with me

while you're still here,

I'd be happy to.

I've still got all

the supplies in there.

Thank you.

You really love this, don't you?

Art therapy, teaching...

I couldn't imagine doing

anything else.

I mean, no offense, but if it

weren't for the severe lack

of teaching opportunities

in Boston,

I probably wouldn't

have ended up in Wellington.

But turned out for the best.

I think it looks pretty good.

Yeah, now all you've got

to do is paint.

Well, this place is packed!

When you said ornament exchange,

I was picturing like ten people.

Well, that's 'cause

Cody's been k*lling it lately.

You know, it's only the second

year that we've done this

and it's already

a Wellington staple.

Hey, Parker...

Are you sure

you wanna hang that one?

You worked so hard on it.

Yeah, I'm sure.

I think it's cool someone else

is gonna get to put it

on their own tree.

Can you help me hang it?

I need someone tall to lift me.

What? You think I'm tall?

That's amazing.

Sure.

-Can I?

-Yeah.

All right.

Let's go pick the best spot.

-Just be careful, please.

-Mm-hmm.

Mm-hmm. Whoa.

Okay. Okay.

Parker seems to be

really taking to Will.

I mean, it probably helps

that Will is basically

a big kid himself.

- yeah.

- But...

Yeah, I know what you mean.

It's like Parker's

starting to come out...

-...of his shell a little bit.

-Mm-hmm.

And boy, is he ever

responding to Will's art

therapy.

You two are joined

at the hip lately.

Yeah, well,

as much as I hate to admit it,

Will has been

a huge help so far.

I don't think I'd be able

to finish in time on my own.

I'm not talking about

the painting, Olivia.

I'm talking about this.

Wait, h-hold up.

One, two, three, jump!

- Cookies.

- Cookies!

- Just one.

- Yeah.

Just a single... Thank you.

Just a single one.

Of course, you can.

Yes!

Now that is what

I'm talking about.

I'm telling you, buddy,

it feels great.

You're not gonna get

in trouble. I promise.

Ho-oh, see?

Good, right?

Go crazy.

Yeah, there's a whole stack.

What is going on in here?

Oh. That?

That's therapy. Mm-hmm.

Umm, since you're already here,

do you want to?

Oh, yeah.

Doesn't that feel great?

Okay, yes, I will admit

that feels pretty amazing.

Kind of like a weight

has been lifted.

Fantastic.

Parker, you did so well

at this first part

of the process.

Now what we get

to do is choose

the pieces that you wanna

use in your mosaic.

I can hear the bells

The bells are ringing

I can hear the children

playing, singing

I've been going back

to that old feeling

Time to turn it back

to that old feeling

Take me home take me home

To Christmas

I'll be home I'll be home

For Christmas

Ohh-ohh

New memories waiting for me

There's no place

where I'd rather be

Ohh-ohh

Home, take me home

To Christmas, to Christmas

Hello. Anyone home?

-Hey.

-Hi.

I'm glad I didn't miss you.

Um, I come bearing gifts.

Is that takeout?

There's a great Thai place

just around the corner.

I-I felt bad that I couldn't

help out earlier,

so I came to bribe you.

Hope you like pad see ew.

There's enough for two.

That sounds perfect.

Four brothers?

I cannot imagine five kids.

Yeah, I don't think my parents

could either.

I am the youngest

by nine years.

Aw, you're a little

accident baby.

Well, you know,

I prefer "surprise."

So what's your brothers' deal?

They all married with kids?

Oh, yeah.

I have ten nieces and nephews.

Wow! Christmas

at your mom's must be wild.

Yeah, it is, of course.

Still doesn't stop my mom

from asking

when I will be giving her

more grandchildren.

But, uh, I just

don't think

I'm really cut out for that.

For... being a parent?

Will, come on,

I've seen you teach.

And with Parker,

obviously you'd be great at it.

Sorry, um... you did not ask

my opinion on that.

You're okay.

I know that it's stupid, but...

When my dad d*ed,

it hit me so hard as a kid.

I was sad and angry

and confused

and I think,

I think one day I'll be gone.

And when that happens,

I don't want

my kid to have to live

through what I did.

Will...

That is not stupid.

Losing someone you love

is... really hard.

But you can't let the fear

of losing someone

outweigh the joy

of loving them.

There's not a day that goes by

that I don't... miss Tom.

But that...

pain and that grief...

it's worth it.

Because of all of the wonderful

memories that I have of him.

And yeah, I wish that...

I could spare Parker the pain

of having lost his dad.

But that would mean

losing the good parts too.

And I know he wouldn't trade

those memories for anything.

Sounds like it was

kind of awkward.

It was, at first,

but then we started painting

and everything

went back to normal.

Well, you guys did kind of bare

your souls to each other

last night.

That's a heavy conversation

to come back from.

Especially when it's with

someone he likes so much.

Okay, you have to stop saying

that he likesme.

I refuse.

I will die on this hill.

I guess I did see

another side of him last night.

It was nice having

a real conversation.

He must make you

feel comfortable.

Yeah, he does.

I think it's great.

And you should too.

How's it going over there?

That's great. Is that us?

Yeah. I think I need

to make your head bigger.

Excuse me.

Mouth.

Ear. Ear. Eyes.

That's better.

Excuse me.

Hey, bud. I wanted

to talk to you about something.

So I know...Christmas here

so far has been a lot of fun...

Yeah, I like getting to see

Grandma and Grandpa

all the time.

I like Mr. Campbell, too.

He's funny.

Yeah, he's kind of a goofball,

huh?

Yeah, he helped me make friends

at the Christmas Craft Club.

That's great.

I'm so glad.

I guess... we're really

gonna miss all this

when we head home

after Christmas.

Yeah.

But the good news

is that Wellington is not that

far from New York.

So we don't have to wait

until Christmas to visit again.

-When can we come back?

-Whenever you want.

I mean within reason.

-It is a five hour drive.

-Okay.

It's dad.

He will always be with us.

No matter what.

You know that, right?

-Hey, mom.

-Hey!

-What's going on?

-Oh, not much.

Should be ready soon.

This all looks great,

but I thought

you said we were having

a quick family dinner.

I-I have to keep working

on the mural after this.

Oh, I know that, sweetheart.

We won't keep you too long.

Yeah. Anyway, I just felt

like making something special.

Hey, Park,

look who's here.

Mr. Campbell!

Hey, Parker.

- Nice to see you.

- Have a seat, Will.

- Oh, thanks.

- We are...

Mom.

Did you invite Will to dinner

and forget to tell me about it?

No, I didn't forget.

I told you this morning.

No, you didn't.

Well, I meant to.

Must have just slipped my mind.

Well, anyway, I don't know

what all the fuss is.

He's a very nice man. He's been

helping you with your mural.

I... Actually...

it's appalling

that we didn't do this sooner.

Well, if you had

talked to me about it,

I might have mentioned

that tonight

isn't really the best night.

-Why not?

-Because!

We had kind of an intense

conversation yesterday

and now having him over,

I just...

I don't want him

to get the wrong idea.

What wrong idea?

It's a pot roast.

You're doing that thing

where you act all innocent,

but secretly you are plotting.

And you are looking

too far into this.

Now, I want you to march over

to that stove

and make sure those veggies

don't burn

while I go greet our guest.

Will, I'm so glad

you could make it.

Thank you.

Good to see you.

You did

that self-portrait.

It looked exactly like you.

It didn't look

anything like me.

Seriously though,

the mural is looking great.

I could see why Olivia's been

able to make it

as an artist in New York City.

That's not easy.

That must feel good

having another artist

talk about your work

with such high esteem.

Well, it may be infrequent,

but yes, it is appreciated.

I try telling her all the time

how great she is and she

doesn't like hearing it.

Her own mother.

Now granted,

I'm not an art critic,

but I do know good art

when I see it.

I mean, I-I get that.

My mom's a bit like that

and, um...

I admit it can be

a bit embarrassing.

Okay.

It's not that we

don't believe you,

it's just...

Artists are pretty hard

on themselves.

And when you have a good mother,

you know that

she is going to support you

no matter what, right?

I could draw

a stick figure dog

with five legs and my mother

would think it was wonderful.

So, Betty, I would just

take it as a compliment.

It means Olivia knows

that you love her

and you want

what's best for her.

Mr. Campbell, do you

ever visit New York?

Um...

You know, not as much

as I would like to.

But now that I have

some friends there,

maybe I should come

more often.

If that's okay, of course.

Yeah. You are welcome anytime.

You'd eat a bag of sugar

if we allowed you.

Just like this guy.

I hate to cut

a lovely evening short,

but I think Parker

is all S'mored out.

-Oh.

-So I better get him to bed.

Oh, don't be silly,

your father and I'll

put him to bed.

You can stay and have

fun. Come on, sweetheart.

Sweetie, I-I haven't finished

roasting that m--

Come on, sweetheart.

Uh, yeah, I probably

should lay off the sugar.

Will, great to have you over.

Thank you so much.

-All right, load me up.

-Okay.

-Oh, it's okay, buddy.

-I got you, little buddy.

Okay. You okay, dad?

-Yeah. Here we go.

-Okay.

Goodnight, guys.

Yeah. Goodnight.

Goodnight.

-Goodnight, mom.

-Goodnight, sweetheart.

New York does not

have stars like this.

Well, score one

for Wellington.

I mean sure, we might not have

the city's culture

or food or incredible art scene

or bountiful career

opportunities,

but we got stars.

Speaking of

career opportunities...

I've been so busy

with the mural

that I haven't even thought

about work.

What's up?

I, uh...

Found out my job

is having to downsize

and... I'm not sure where

I land on the chopping block.

Really? That's awful.

So... if your job

is up in the air,

is there any reason that you're

rushing back

right after Christmas?

I mean, I don't know what people

get up to in New York City,

but I will tell you that things

are pretty wild

here on New Year's Eve.

Some of the stores

even stay open till 9:00.

Yeah.

Well, for all I know,

my job could be safe.

Plus... I have

to head home sometime.

Get back to real life.

Sure. There's probably nothing

here worth sticking around for.

Wait.

I'm sorry. I-I-I can't.

I can't do this.

-Uh, Olivia, I--

-Please, um...

I need to go.

Will?

Hey.

Oh, hey, Dad.

Well, nice to see you too.

Sorry, I-I thought

you were Will.

We had a weird thing

last night,

and we haven't had a chance

to talk about it yet.

Oh.

Well, look,

if you need an ear to bend,

I'm right here.

Thanks.

What have you got there?

Oh, uh, just some tools

and hardware.

You know, I thought

I'd reinforce those shelves.

You know, make sure

they don't collapse on us.

Dad, you are working so hard.

You should give yourself

the day off.

You just retired.

You should relax and enjoy it.

Sweetie, I-I tried relaxing.

It didn't really take.

But I-I am enjoying it.

I get to hang out with you.

Now come on, let-let me pick up

some of Will's slack

and give you a hand.

Thanks. That would be nice.

All right, folks,

do not forget the nose.

Remember, if it ain't red,

it ain't Rudolph, right?

It's just some boring, average,

nameless reindeer.

Okay, so you got shut down.

What happened next?

Nothing. I went home.

-Great, Doug.

-Thanks, Will.

Love your imagination.

Oh, purple's cool, too.

Way to go against

the grain, Mona.

Born rebel over here.

Very nice,

Very nice, everybody.

Have you guys,

like...talked about it?

Not a peep.

I'm not an idiot, Cody.

I could take a hint.

She needs space.

Or she was just

caught off guard.

Probably felt like one of these

in the headlights.

Well, suffice it to say I am not

gonna make that mistake again.

I'm just gonna keep

my distance.

It was a dumb move anyway.

She's leaving in a couple days.

All right, looks like everybody

is putting the finishing

touches on their work.

Oh, and that's a good thing

because we've

just run out of time.

Thanks for a fun class,

everyone.

You've done

some great work today.

Let's all give a hand to Will

for so graciously hosting

class on such short notice.

Thank you.

Thank you. Thanks.

Great stuff. Nice.

Seriously, man. Thank you.

I'm gonna k*ll Randy for

bailing on bingo day again.

Honestly, I enjoy it.

You find yourself short staffed

again, you let me know.

Well, if the mural goes well,

maybe I could convince the city

to allocate more funds

for our projects.

Get you paid

for stuff like this.

I wouldn't say no to that.

So long as Olivia finishes

in time.

You think she's gonna

get it done?

Oh, no doubt in my mind.

At this point,

I would just slow her down

anyway, so it's probably

for the best.

Unless she

wants you there, of course.

That wouldn't be so bad.

Hey, you worked late.

I was getting worried.

Finishing up is taking longer

than I thought.

Oh, I thought about

pulling an all-nighter,

but I don't think I could lift

a paintbrush right now.

Oh. You close?

Good.

Just one last section I

haven't been able to nail down.

A scene with a family

on Christmas.

I've painted their faces

a dozen times,

but it's just

never looked right.

Hoping to knock it out tomorrow

morning before the unveiling.

You know,

your father told me

he had a really nice time

working with you today.

It was quite the conversation

from what I understand.

You know, if you have

anything you wanna talk about,

I'm always here.

I appreciate that

you wanna help,

but sometimes

your way of helping

just kind of complicates things.

I'm sure I don't even know

what you're talking about.

Mom, come on.

You knew that I was having

trouble painting,

so you secretly entered me

in a contest

to try to motivate me.

You saw that Will and I were

getting along, so you invited

him over for dinner

and left us stargazing.

Yes.

And now you almost finished

painting a mural

and you kissed a man you liked.

If it took a little nudging

for me to get you there,

so be it.

What about what I want?

Doesn't that matter?

Of course it does.

So tell me, Olivia,

what do you want?

I just need you to listen,

that's all.

Okay.

All right. Well...

I guess I'm having trouble

figuring out

what I'm supposed to do.

Being back home.

Painting again.

Meeting Will.

It's all stirring up

a lot of emotions.

And they're all good.

Which... shouldn't be a problem.

But then... I think about

what that means.

And the guilt that I feel

for falling for another man,

for picturing a life

outside of New York.

-And that can't happen.

-Why not?

Because it's the life that

Tom and I built together.

Parker was born there.

And I moved to New York

to pursue my career.

So if I leave all that behind,

then I've failed as an artist.

And... if I abandoned the life

that Tom and I

were building together, then

I have failed as a wife

and as a mother.

You are not a failure.

I need you to hear that.

And you do know

art exists

outside of New York, right?

And you are good enough

to make it anywhere.

And as far as being

a failure of a mother?

Well, that's nonsense too.

You and I both know no matter

where you are, you will give

Parker everything you've got.

You will never fail that boy.

But what about Tom?

Tom loved you

more than anything.

And he'll always

be a part of you.

And he'll always want

what's best for you.

And yes, I know you planned

a life with him.

And as painful as it is,

that plan has changed

and you can't keep holding on

to it at the expense of building

a life for you and Parker.

So what am I supposed to do?

Listen to this.

Sometimes it's the only guide

you've got.

And you're not the only one

going through a new life change,

trying to figure things out.

I mean, look at your father.

The man's retired and doesn't

know what to do with himself.

And As for me...

I found myself

in unfamiliar waters, too.

I had to watch my daughter

go through something terrible,

and see this bright flame

in her start to fade.

I don't wanna keep

growing apart, Olivia.

I wanna be here for you,

if you'll let me.

It is very unfair of you

to spring this

conversation on me

when I am physically

incapable of escaping.

Come here, sweetheart.

You'll be fine. Yeah.

You'll get past this.

Mom.

Mom?

Hey, mom.

Merry Christmas Eve.

Mom, it's Christmas Eve.

Merry Christmas Eve, bud.

Hey, whoa, whoa, whoa.

I wanted to talk to you

about something.

You have a second?

Um...

So...

I know the plan was to

head home in a couple days,

but I was wondering

how you would feel

about staying a little longer.

Maybe living in Wellington

for a while.

Like, for good?

I don't know. Maybe.

What about school?

Yeah, you'd have

to change schools.

And I know that would be tough.

So hey, please, I need you

to be honest with me, okay?

Because we can just forget this

whole thing right now.

It'll be tough for me, too.

It's our home.

And it's where your dad...

His memory lives there.

Daddy doesn't live there.

He's here.

He's wherever we are.

You're right.

Of course you're right.

Your dad and I will

always love you.

You know that, right?

Are you sure you're okay

with all this?

Yeah. But I do have a question.

If I go to school here,

does that mean Mr. Campbell

will be my art teacher?

I think so.

If nothing else, I'm sure

he would love to teach you.

Yes!

Grandma! Grandpa! Guess what!

Cody Miller,

Director of Recreation

and Community Services.

How can I help you?

Hey, Cody,

it's Olivia.

Olivia, great to hear from you.

-You got good news for me?

-Oh, uh, yeah.

I'm just on my way to the mural

to do some final touch ups,

but we should be all good

for the unveiling this evening.

Okay, good. Uh...

If you told me you weren't done,

I might have had a heart att*ck.

Forget I said that,

I have full faith in you.

Right.

Um...

I'm actually calling

because I wanted

to get your help with something.

Of course. Anything you need.

I'm sure by now

you have seen Will

and you've heard

what's going on.

And I was hoping...

Will and I haven't talked

since that night

and... I really want him

to be there tonight.

It's important.

So... do you think you could

make sure that he comes?

That's it?

Sure.

I was gonna do that anyway.

He needs to support the

Community Services Department.

And me, frankly.

I did want to talk to you

about something else.

Do you have some time

right now?

Hey, Merry Christmas.

Hi guys. Hi.

He's so cute.

Good evening, everyone.

On behalf of the Community

Services Department

it gives me great joy

to welcome you

to the Wellington Winter Walks

inaugural

Christmas Eve mural unveiling!

In our ongoing efforts

to engage the community

through the arts,

we hope this is the first

of many new initiatives

to bring our town together.

But enough from me.

We're here for the art,

and it only makes sense to

turn things over to the artist.

So let's all give a big hand

for Olivia.

Thank you so much, everyone.

Um, it really means the world

that you all came out tonight.

I have a lot of people in my

life that I want to thank.

My dad, Mack,

who worked tirelessly

to make sure that we had

a proper space to work.

My mom, Betty,

who is the reason

I entered this contest

and who is always

rooting for me.

My son Parker,

who is my everything.

And one more person...

It was with the help

of a fellow artist

that I was able to overcome

my creative block,

and finally open myself back up

to letting the world in again.

And he deserves

to be up here too.

So...

Will...

would you like to come

and help me do the honors?

-Yeah, get up there.

-Come on, Will, get up there.

Will Campbell,

everyone.

-Hi.

-Hi.

I want to thank you, Will,

for...being my partner

when I needed one.

I know that I made

things difficult,

but you helped me see

what was missing.

And you helped me

realize what I want.

Uh...

I have just one more

announcement, um,

before we unveil the mural.

I am overjoyed

to tell you

that the canvas for this piece,

which has served

as a second home

since I've been here,

well, it's not going to

remain vacant any longer.

Working in tandem with the

Community Services Department...

Whoo!

I will be transforming

this space into a studio

and a gallery

to create and display

works of art from myself

and fellow Wellington artists,

as well as anyone else who

wants to engage with the arts.

So...

without any further ado...

We present to you

"A Wellington Christmas."

Will...

I'm so sorry for pushing

you away the other night.

I just...

I panicked.

And then I felt guilty

and embarrassed.

But I-I really don't want that

to be the way

that we leave things.

Because I realized that...

I'm ready to fall in love again.

And...

I am falling in love.

But if you don't feel the same

way, I-I completely understand.

I just... I wanted to make it

perfectly clear that, um...

Parker and I...

We want you in the picture.

I wanna be in the picture.

Now, these are

fun to decorate,

but I have to be honest,

I'm mostly excited

about eating them.

Wonderful speech tonight,

Olivia.

I'm really excited to see

what you do with the studio.

Thanks, Cody. Me too.

Ivy, um, this is long overdue,

but I owe you an apology for

how I left our date last year.

I can sometimes let work get in

the way of my personal life.

Apology accepted.

And also, Cody,

I just have to say,

I think it's pretty cool

how you're always supporting

the arts in this town.

Woah. Was that a compliment?

Don't let it get to your head.

Hey, can I buy you

hot chocolate?

To make up

for my past decisions.

They're free, you weirdo.

But sure.

Hey.

I have to thank you, mom,

for giving me a nudge.

-You were right.

-Oh.

I needed it.

So, Cody says that he thinks he

might be able to get me a deal

on rent if I agree to host

community events at the studio.

But that means

I'm going to really need

some help getting it

into shape.

I think I can find some time

for a project like that.

Great.

But I am not going to

let you work too hard.

I know you're having trouble

with retirement,

but if there's one thing I've

learned since I've been home,

is that change is good.

Okay.

But I'm not too worried

about it.

You know, with the studio and

having you and Parker

home again,

the future is looking

pretty bright, sweetheart.

I think you should

get over there.

Come on, mom.

You need to make a cookie, too.

I would love to.

I got to admit, I am

looking forward to doing

stuff like this more often.

Yeah, me too.

So... I was thinking.

Seeing as how the studio

has successfully

already hosted

some art therapy sessions,

it might be a good space

to host some more.

And it's a great place for any

after-school art programs

you were thinking of teaching.

If that's something

you would be interested in.

I would love to.

And I wanna share

this moment with you

Oh-oh

Snow is falling

deep outside

The day is almost done

Come inside

and don't be shy

'Cause now it's time

to have some fun

Christmas

Oh-oh...

Oh-oh

Snow is falling

deep outside

The day is almost done

Come inside

and don't be shy

'Cause now it's time

to have some fun

Christmas

Oh-oh

And I wanna share

this Christmas with you