that is the perfect necklace
for that dress.
Stop carrying things.
Oh stop,
I'm fine.
I'm hoping there's
some christmas stuff
in here, who would've
thought a vintage store
would run out of inventory.
- Oh, wow, nice.
- Right.
Oh, there's a little tear,
but that should be
easy to refurbish.
Well easy for you.
You're so good at
taking secondhand stuff
and making it look brand new.
Where did you get
all this stuff?
I have no idea.
There's four boxes in the back,
I didn't even realize we had.
okay, it's Thursday, don't
you have dinner with your dad?
Yeah, I told him I was
gonna be a little bit late
because I wanted to do this.
I was gonna give it
to you at the party,
but it couldn't wait, so
you have to open it now.
It's a baby gift?
- More like a best friend gift,
I didn't really think an infant
would appreciate it, so.
these are gorgeous.
- Well, you always look so great
in drop earrings.
I use diamonds
because it's April's birthstone
and it's when you're due.
Holly.
This is one of the most
incredibly thoughtful gifts
anyone's ever given me.
Thank you.
Oh, you're gonna get so
many gifts for the baby
at the party and I
just wanted to give you
something for you.
You're amazing.
Thank you so much.
You're so welcome.
Oh, I've got this, you go.
Say hi to your dad for me.
I will.
Aren't these beautiful?
She makes jewelry.
so what's new?
Oh, let's see.
I talked to mom.
She and roger are going to
st bart's for the holidays.
spur of the moment.
So like your mom,
she loves the sunshine.
No, it's the caribbean,
I mean, who wouldn't?
It's christmas time.
Give me white snow
over the white sand.
well, you might have
to go upstate for that.
It's gonna snow,
don't you worry.
Hey, what you gonna
have to drink?
Is that apple cider?
Yes.
Is it good?
It's really good.
I'll have that.
yes, I understand,
but that's why I
pay extra every year
so that they come
already wrapped.
Okay.
Well then you should
tell your manager
that forcing your customers
to wrap their own gift cards
is a terrible business decision.
Yep.
Merry christmas to you too.
Thanks.
Working hard on the article?
Who cancels their
gift wrapping business
right before christmas?
Well, maybe it's time
to try something new.
Go shopping, pick
out meaningful gifts,
hand write something
personal on the card.
Okay.
All right.
I got your email
saying you finally
have a story to pitch me?
Oh, yes.
Okay.
Here it is.
A guy from gramercy
park goes out to lunch,
leaves a $200 tip.
I'm gonna interview the lucky
server in a half an hour.
Boom.
Hmm.
What?
No, this is perfect for
my holiday hero story.
I was hoping for something
a little more personal.
I want our readers to be moved
by the magic of christmas.
Maybe you feel more inspired
if you did a little
more decorating?
What do you mean?
Look at this, this ball.
Not the office
decorations, your own things.
Look sheyla, I know
that my last few features
have not been pulitzer material,
but this piece is gonna knock
your socks off, I promise.
We'll see.
2000 words.
Copy in my inbox by
noon on the 23rd.
All right.
here.
You didn't have
to get me anything.
See?
Now I'm embarrassed
because I didn't get you
a bunch of folded
up pieces of paper?
Draw a name for
the office party.
See, I'm sorry, I
actually, I can't make it
because I'm renewing
my driver's license
and you know how difficult it is
to get an appointment
at the dmv.
You used that one last year.
It's an annual thing.
Okay. Sheyla, look, you
know I hate these things.
You got to get a
present for someone
that you don't even know,
gotta get all dressed up.
All these things can be
fun if you just let it.
Good luck on the interview.
Let me know how it goes.
of course.
how did megan
like her earrings?
She loved them.
Of course she did.
oh, that reminds me.
You are planning to come to her
gender reveal party
on the 21st, right?
I spent a lot of time
planning it, so don't say no.
that's adorable.
What is megan gonna do
once the baby comes?
Oh, at the store?
Yeah.
She's gonna work part time.
And she was gonna hire more
help but I told her not to,
I can pick up the slack.
That doesn't really
leave you a lot of time
for your jewelry, does it?
Well, I will make time.
Somehow.
Look, I know that
you want me to focus
on eventually trying
to sell my stuff, but-
- but what?
- Well then I have to worry
about people wanting to buy it.
Avoiding.
Oh look, a dessert menu.
I think I will have the
apple.
I guess virginia,
there's such thing as
too much christmas.
Hi, I'm here to see tony.
Over there.
So when I went back to the
table to give the guys change,
that's when I saw $200
tucked under his water glass.
How did you feel?
You must've been elated?
Absolutely.
I mean, 200's a lot,
especially this time of year
when you're trying to buy your
girlfriend something nice.
and that's why it
was such a bummer
when I had to give it back.
What?
Turns out the guy taking
it out of his wallet
when he paid the
bill, forgot it.
He didn't mean for
it to be a tip.
Hold on.
He asked for the money back?
Yeah.
About an hour later after
he realized it was missing.
This isn't a feel
good story at all.
I know, especially for me.
I felt terrible.
I bet.
Thank you.
Wow.
Thank you again for your dinner.
Oh, you're very welcome.
Hey, you sure you don't
want to ride home?
No, that's okay.
I will just take a cab.
All right, it's
good to see you.
You too.
Love you.
Oh.
I am so sorry.
My.
Your what?
My.
- Okay, hold on, actually, I
have an app that can translate.
Translate what?
Oh.
I'm really sorry about
your, whatever that is.
I can give you some money?
You can go get a new one
and I can find someone
to clean this up.
Yeah, okay.
Thank you.
Yeah, that's
actually not gonna work
because I just gave
tony all of my cash.
He's one of the servers.
I felt really bad for him.
It's a long story.
If we go in together, I could
pay with my credit card.
You know what?
Nevermind, it's okay.
I'll just try the next time.
When will that be?
Maybe I could meet you?
- Really, don't worry about it.
Some other time then?
are you asking me on a date?
I'm not a big fan of labels,
but yeah, you
could call it that.
I appreciate the
offer but no thank you.
Have a nice night.
wow.
Look at this one.
A 1950s swing dress.
Beautiful.
Love the peter pan collar.
I know you do.
Get out the egg nog.
Mom, hi.
Hi honey.
Holly.
Welcome, welcome.
I thought you were gonna
go straight to the apartment?
No, I changed my mind.
I couldn't wait to see you and
my soon to be granddaughter.
Or is it grandson?
Nice try.
Megan has sworn me to secrecy.
yup.
I told the doctor,
all I care about
is that the baby is healthy
and that way we can
share the surprise
with the people
we love the most.
Aww.
Honey, you are so much bigger
than I was at five months.
Look at you.
And this place is gorgeous.
You've done so much
since I was here last.
We have, you haven't
even seen the back.
Let me show you.
Absolutely.
We have reorganized
everything.
I know you do.
- honey, it's so organized now.
I know.
What is that?
It's a charm bracelet.
I found it in the
pocket of this coat.
Oh, the charms are
all christmas themed.
Oh, it's really small.
Obviously it belongs to a woman.
I bet it fell off when she
put her hand in her pocket.
I have no idea where
I picked this stuff up.
I go to so many different
stores each week.
But everything is donated
at those places, right?
Huh-uh.
So maybe the owner decided
she doesn't wanna keep it.
- True.
- Oh, I don't think so.
I mean, no one just gives
away a charm bracelet.
They're like little
history books
that tell the
story of your life.
- The owner could have d*ed
and went to a few estate sales.
Yeah, then she would've
given it to her kids.
Well, maybe she
didn't have kids.
Oh no, she did.
Look, two of the charms
say baby's first christmas.
Oh, that's so sweet.
- This was definitely a mistake.
Someone wants this back.
Wow, is that the logan's?
let me see.
What's logan's?
Oh, his high-end
jewelry store uptown,
everything they
sell is rose gold
and has these signature
marquee diamonds.
How do we find the owner?
Put an ad in the
lost and found.
Mom.
What?
do those
even still exist?
We could post a photo of it
on our shop's instagram page,
see if anyone responds?
There you go.
I'll take a picture.
You know what?
I'm gonna remove
one of the pieces,
that way if someone
tries to claim it,
they have to describe
the missing charm
and we know it's really theirs.
oh, it is so lovely.
it is beautiful.
beautiful as it glistens.
I'm somewhere in
between the two.
I don't know, what do you think?
Because they're all 24 caret.
Boy, the craftsmanship on these
charms is really impressive.
I know.
I would really love
to get this back
to the owner by christmas,
what a great surprise
that would be.
And I know if someone
showed up at my door
with the one I lost,
I'd be so grateful.
See now, there's a date
stamped on here, 1983.
Really?
Where?
Right there.
You're right.
- I'll tell you something else.
The birthstones on these baby
charms with the real deal,
this was made by a jeweler.
Hey, do you remember
the charm you got me?
The little heart with the ruby?
Yeah, of course.
Do you remember
where you got it?
Sure.
That was a jeweler over
in the upper east side,
what was his name?
Merle, I think.
Last name?
You know what?
I bet you, I still
have a couple of cards
of his in the back.
Let me just go look.
Great.
Thank you, dad.
hey.
Hey paul, how's it going?
Terrific, just
finishing my article
for the christmas issue.
Oh, good.
Good for you.
Listen, I'm having a
little bit of trouble.
The piece that I was
working on didn't pan out
and I'm trying to
think of something new.
And your music, I'm
finding it hard to focus.
Sorry.
Left my earbuds at home.
Thank you.
Hey, I got a
no-brainer for you.
My cousin delivered
her neighbor's baby
when they were both snowed in
and couldn't get
to the hospital.
She's an obstetrician,
so that helps.
It's your story if you want it.
Yeah, thanks, I'll
keep it in mind.
- I used to love that bracelet.
hi, can I help you?
Hi.
I was hoping that I
could show you a bracelet
if you don't mind.
Great.
what
a beautiful collection.
It's actually not mine.
Someone lost this and I'm
trying to track down the owner.
How incredibly kind.
That's a rare trait these days.
Do you recognize
this tree charm?
They look like your
signature diamonds.
Definitely looks
like one of ours.
Let me go get our catalog
and I'll be right back.
Thank you.
- You know, if you want to find
the owner of that bracelet,
you should post it
on social media.
You reach more people,
especially if you
make it shareable.
You know, most
people apologize
before they admit
to eavesdropping.
Guess I'm not
like most people.
I can see that.
thank you for the tip, but
I've already done that.
So where'd you
find that thing?
At a store?
What store?
I'm sorry, but I'm not
telling a complete stranger
where I work.
I'm hardly a
complete stranger,
it's less than 24 hours ago
that you asked me to buy you
a piece of ,
which after googling,
I learned it's just the
german word for cake.
Asked you?
No, I was gonna
let you to make up
for the one that you ruined.
Which I would
still like to do.
So should we get a
cab to take a train?
Come on, when do you take lunch?
You ask a lot of questions.
Maybe that's because I'm a
reporter for new york voice
and it's just in my nature.
And I'm guessing that you work
at that little perfume
shop around the corner.
Am I right?
I'm good at this.
Wow.
This is even more of
an awkward conversation
than when you thought
I only spoke german.
I believe it's this one.
It was released in 1984
and discontinued in '88.
Well, at least two of the
charms are from the '80s.
Is there anything else you
could tell me about the charm?
Just that the charm is worth
anywhere between two to
$3,000 to a collector.
that's worth $3,000?
Sorry.
Thank you for your time.
- So what are you gonna do now?
I am not going
to lunch with you,
if that's what
you're getting at.
What's your next
step to find the owner?
Oh.
Are all of those charms
worth a couple of grant?
'cause if so, the
owner's gonna be thrilled
to get that back.
Yeah, but she'll be thrilled
because this bracelet
took a decade to complete.
You may think you can
just go buy new charms,
but you can't.
We were just in
a jewelry store.
Okay, you don't understand.
Maybe the charms were a gift
and maybe she bought
them for herself,
but they each represent
something special
that happened in her life.
So special that she wants
to keep them with her.
When you lose a charm bracelet,
it doesn't feel like you've
just lost a bracelet,
it feels like you've lost
a piece of your history.
That's why I need to find her.
So if you'll, excuse me, I
don't want to be late to work.
Wait.
Whoa, whoa, whoa.
Whoa, whoa.
You still haven't
answered my question.
Which one?
There are so many, I lost count.
What's your next step?
I will figure it out.
What if it helped you out?
As a reporter, I am very
good at hunting down leads.
You said you
worked for the voice,
aren't those all
just fluff pieces?
- I think you mean puff pieces,
and the technical term
is actually soft news,
regardless, I'm very good
at tracking people down.
I can see that.
- All right, so what do you say?
I appreciate the
offer, but I got this.
Merry christmas.
And that's what makes
you a holiday hero?
hey.
- Whoa, no running in the hall.
Sorry, I need to
do some research.
For your story?
Yeah.
Oh, I haven't seen you
this excited for a long time.
You want a great
holiday hero story?
I've got it.
Great, pitch me.
Not yet, it's too early,
I need to make sure
that it pans out first.
And I need to
make sure it fits
with all the other articles.
Okay.
A woman found a charm bracelet
and she's determined
to track down the owner
and return it to
her by christmas.
I like that, it could
actually be our cover.
Don't get too excited.
I'm living proof that
investigative pieces
don't always work out.
- Greg, you have to stop blaming
yourself for what happened.
I know, I know.
Hey, listen, if you
were to lose a bracelet,
where's the first place
that you would look?
I don't wear bracelets.
Thank you.
That was very helpful.
Okay.
She works in the village.
Must love her bracelets.
She had vintage
written on her bag.
village vintage.
That's it, that was
what was on her bag.
how cute.
Should I get this for megan?
Or this one?
I think you should wait
because you're gonna
find out soon enough.
hi.
Can I help you?
Hey, holly.
You're stalking me?
Well, if by stalking,
you mean employing my
superior investigative skills
to locate you and then
offer up my services?
Mm-hmm.
Yeah.
The bag that you
had the bracelet in
was a decent enough clue.
I was pretty clear that
I don't need your help.
Help?
To find the owner
of the bracelet.
You see, I'm a
reporter for the voice.
A reporter?
How exciting.
Hi, I'm becky.
Greg matthews.
How's the search going?
It's great.
Terrible.
It's great.
I have not found her yet,
but I'm getting closer.
She's gonna be very excited.
Just picture the look of delight
when she slips that
bracelet on to her wrist,
really is a good story.
- Where are you going with this?
If I can find someone
who doesn't want to be
found like yourself,
that I'm certain, that I
can find someone who does?
Let's team up.
For someone who doesn't
know a lot about jewelry,
you suddenly care an awful lot
about if this woman
gets her bracelet back.
Why?
Those charms represent
monumental events in
that person's life.
okay.
Okay, I want to feature
your journey for a piece
that I'm doing for the
magazine called holiday heroes.
No, no, no, no way.
Wait, why not?
Why not?
If this bracelet is as
important as you say it is,
she's gonna be
absolutely thrilled.
And the effort that you're
putting into it is inspiring.
Holly's always inspiring.
Thank you.
But I am not doing
this for recognition.
I'm doing it because
I would want someone
to do the same for me.
That's exactly what
makes you a holiday hero.
No.
- Okay, hol, maybe it's not
such a bad idea to get his help.
He does seem like he's kind
of good at finding stuff out
and we've hit a wall.
Can we at least
discuss this over coffee?
One cup.
No refills.
peppermint latte, please.
And I will have
a hot chocolate
and slice of.
We'll share.
We'll make that two
slices of
and separate checks please.
Be right back.
Thanks, tony.
I wasn't really that
hungry, but okay.
Okay.
So you can do your article.
Really?
Mm-hmm.
Well, I thought
you'd at least hold out
until after the drinks,
but there are three rules.
Hit me.
This is a strictly
professional relationship.
So no meeting up at
each other's houses,
no doing research
over romantic dinners,
and definitely no
dessert splitting.
So basically
ain't no fun at all?
I'm serious.
Okay.
Can I at least interview you,
so I have something
to write about?
Yes.
Thank you.
- December 10th, the maximillian
german house restaurant,
a very formal interview
with holly hayes.
So holly, tell me a
little bit about yourself.
Oh.
Well, I...
I work at the village vintage
with my best friend from
college, it's her store.
We went to design
school together
and megan got her
degree in fashion
and then she decided
she really wanted to-
- whoa, whoa, whoa, wait,
this is a lot about
megan, let's focus on you.
Yeah, of course.
I got my degree
in jewelry design.
Okay.
And how would you describe
the kind of jewelry
that you like.
Classic
or the sort of funky
flare, clean lines,
simple, balanced.
I liked to make delicate
pieces like this.
It's very pretty.
Thank you.
Your eyes light up when
you talk about your jewelry.
well, it's always
been a passion.
My dad owns an engagement
ring store and he says
that jewelry should tell
people something about you
that they don't already know.
That is a good quote.
I might just use that.
wow, speak of the
devil, excuse me.
Hey dad.
Hello sweetheart.
Listen, I got some news.
I spoke to the new owner
of that jewelry store,
she said merle hall sold her
the place a little while ago,
but she still knows how
to get in touch him.
Well, that's great.
We have a lead.
At christmas time
she works afternoons
in the holiday market
down on santa's village.
He's there right now.
Well, we are on our way.
all right, good luck.
Thank you.
Could we actually get
those cakes to go please?
Sure.
Thank you.
So where we going?
The north pole.
wow, they really go
all out for christmas.
The kids are having a blast.
Didn't you come to santa
when you were a kid?
Yes, but now it's put
up the decorations, check,
get presents, check,
christmas parties, check,
take down the
decorations, check.
I don't shop here
on a regular day,
let alone christmas time.
Wait, have you never
been to this market?
Nope.
This is the place
for holiday shopping.
The exact reason why I
stay as far away as possible.
Okay, well where
do you shop then?
Boutique stores?
Online.
For all of it?
Every last gift card.
Yeah, that's fine for people
you don't know very well,
but what about your family?
What do you usually
get your parents?
Gift cards?
They love them.
From their son?
Please tell me they
are not pre-wrapped.
That is terrible.
No, it's perfect because
they actually like shopping
and I don't, so it's win-win.
Okay, but I feel like
you're missing out.
Picking out the perfect
gift for someone
and then finding the
right bow and paper,
it's all part of what
makes christmas exciting
for them and for you.
Hi, excuse me, we're
looking for merle hall.
Well, he's a little
busy at the moment.
we were hoping
that he could help us
regarding some
charms on a bracelet,
we heard that merle,
that santa has an expertise
in that sort of thing.
Oh, well he takes
a break at six,
so you can come back then.
Thank you.
We will do that.
Oh, by the way,
there's a vendor over there
that serves all kinds of chile,
santa likes he's without
onions and extra crackers.
good to know.
Thanks.
Okay, so that's, all right.
oh wow.
Look at those.
You've never seen
the stars before?
- I told you, I don't shop here.
They really light up the sky.
And they put them
up for christmas
and then keep them
throughout the new year.
I think it's one of my
favorite parts of this market.
If you watch, they
turn a slightly
different color
very five seconds.
It's amazing.
Well, since we are here,
I should look for
a gift for my dad.
Ah, so I get to see
the master shopper
in her natural environment.
So what's your dad like?
I know that he designs
rings, but is he sporty?
Because then maybe we can find
a chip bowl shaped
like a football.
Now I know why you
stick to gift cards.
Yeah.
no, he's artistic, but
he also loves history
and geography and
gourmet cooking.
So I guess I call
him cardigan wearing,
liberal arts, college
professor foodie type.
That's exactly like my dad.
Really?
No, not even close.
My dad's a carpenter,
he loves building things.
He'll retire one day,
but not anytime soon.
And how about your mom?
My mom is retired.
She used to work at a bakery
and she makes the
best cookies on earth.
Sounds like you
had a good childhood.
Yeah, I really did.
What about your mom?
You didn't mention
her, what's she like?
She is mrs adventure,
she loves to travel,
loves to be spontaneous,
and my stepdad's a
lot like that too.
Oh wow, actually,
she would love this,
green is her favorite color.
Hi.
Can I get this?
That's $5.
There you go.
Thank you.
Perfect.
So who do you spend
the holidays with then?
Mom, dad, boyfriend?
That was subtle.
It's for the article.
I switch off every year,
so this christmas I'm
spending with my dad.
No, I don't have a boyfriend,
at least not currently.
You don't need to record
that for the article?
I think I can remember that.
come on, let's go eat.
one large chile,
extra crackers.
In all these years, I thought
santa only ate cookies.
You have to try this.
Yeah?
It is so good.
Hm?
- You literally could not go
wrong with apples and cinnamon.
Whoa, whoa, whoa, whoa.
so what do we know
about our jane doe so far?
Jane doe?
Yeah, it's a term
that you use for someone
you don't know who they are.
sounds like she's
dead or something.
No, we should call her mrs x.
Fine, mrs x.
What do we know about her?
Well, she is the
mother of two kids.
One was born in may,
the other September.
You got that from
the birthstones?
Yep.
And their space with
two charms in between.
So if my theory is right and
she added one charm per year,
then the kids are
three years apart.
And then there's these
two identical elves,
but they have
different colored hats.
Yeah, those stumped me.
We'll skip those.
Skip them?
Well, if there's two of them,
they're probably
the most important.
Well, not necessarily.
We should focus on the
ones that are most unique.
They're all unique
except for the two elves.
Okay.
What do you think
the elves mean?
You know what?
Let's circle back
to the elves after,
let's just eat some cake.
Circle back.
the craftsmanship's
impressive.
The detail on this angel's face,
but no, I don't recall any of
these coming from my store.
This nutcracker charm's
interesting though.
There was no makers mark,
but it does have a crescent
and a crown stamped
at the bottom.
It does?
What does that mean?
That it was made in germany.
To show it's authentic,
they use the moon
and the crown
hallmark for silver
and the sun and
the crown for gold.
My father looked at
these with the loop,
how could he have missed that?
Well, sometimes it's
actually easier to see
with a pair of good
old fashioned bifocals.
maybe if we search
for german jewelers,
we can find the person
who sold this charm?
I guess we were
smart to ask santa.
- Well, I can't take the credit.
Christmas just
seems to have a way
of bringing people together.
thanks anyways.
Great, we will see then.
You have a lead?
Megan's cousin rsvping
for her party next week.
All right, then
that's the last one.
Talking to german
jewelers all day.
It's a dead end.
Oh, well then we can
just expand our search.
You take jersey,
I'll take maryland.
We don't have
that kind of time,
this story needs to
be done by the 23rd.
Getting frustrated,
isn't gonna help.
You're right.
Sorry, I forgot how frustrating
these investigative
pieces can be.
You used to be an
investigative journalist?
Yeah, a couple of years
before working for the voice,
I was a stringer
for city insider.
oh, I know that magazine.
Why did you change formats?
I wasn't very good at it.
I can't imagine that's true.
It is.
I messed up big time.
I was doing this
story on a doctor
who I thought was
defrauding his patients.
And I worked on this
thing for eight months,
checking my sources
and double checking.
And then what?
It turns out that he wasn't.
It was all made up by two
of his medical assistants
who thought that they
were being underpaid.
But my article almost
destroyed his career.
Yeah.
But that's on the
people who lied to you.
It's not, it's on me
because I'm the one
who wrote the article,
I am the one who
didn't dig deep enough.
That's when I decided
that I was done with it.
hi, mom.
We have a problem.
Your father's working
late and can't help set up.
Oh, did you call uncle gary?
Yeah, I called everybody
and they're all busy.
Okay.
Don't worry about it, I will
find someone to help out.
Just load everything into the
van and I will meet you there.
Okay, thanks.
See you soon.
Okay.
Everything okay?
Oh yeah, yeah.
Every year my mom makes
this huge gingerbread city
for the christmas
party at her church
and my dad and I
help her set it up.
But he is stuck at work and
she is short a pair of hands.
Well, I could help.
Yeah, I mean, I've made
gingerbread houses before.
Never a whole city, but I
make displays for the store.
That would be great.
We would love your help.
Are sure that you want to
spend the next couple of hours
covered in powdered sugar
and icing with me and my mom?
Well, do I get to try
the gingerbread cookies?
Oh, there will be a dozen
with your name on
it if you come help.
Deal.
okay, so the house is done,
so is the church, the sides
and the roof for the school
are on that table
and the trees for the
park are in that box.
So what's next?
Well, I think greg could
use some help with the barn.
Ah, yes.
Okay.
Sure.
Here.
So you wanna squeeze
from the top.
Okay.
From the top, yeah.
And you want to act fast
because it sets really quickly.
There you go, she's got it.
Okay, now you
wanna put it on top.
- Okay, I'm gonna help you out.
okay.
Just like that.
You know that when
greg was little,
he used to love making things
gingerbread cookies with me.
I don't think holly
needs any stories
from when I was a kid, mom.
Oh, sure I do.
We used to make
gingerbread people
and he would give them
names and occupations.
And then one year
when he was seven,
he drew this family tree to
show how they were all related.
I think I hear some carolers
let's all just be quiet
so we can listen.
We used to eat cookies
and wrap presents
and decorate the tree,
it was so much fun.
I think we need some more
gum drops, I'll go get them.
Wrapping presents
and making cookies,
I thought you didn't
like that stuff.
It's all fun
when you're a kid.
But when you're an adult, they
make you clean up afterwards.
I'm serious.
What is the point
of putting up a tree
if you're just gonna take
it down a month later?
Because it's fun.
If by fun, you mean a hassle?
Then yeah.
I agree with you.
You spend a lot of time
worrying about wasting time.
Maybe you should
just try and enjoy
whatever it is you're
doing in the moment.
Have to take a picture
of this for megan,
she is going to love it.
Hi.
How's it going?
Welcome.
Here you go.
thank you.
Here, milk.
More of a coffee guy.
It's for your cookie.
You can't have
gingerbread without milk.
Really?
Is that a rule or something?
Yeah, actually, they posted
a sign about it inside.
Listen, thanks
again for tonight.
You were great.
Yeah, I had no idea
what I was doing.
Even so, you took charge
and it all came
together because of you.
my car is here.
Good night, holly.
Good night.
excuse me.
Oh, hi.
How can I help you?
I'm actually not
here to buy anything.
I believe you found my bracelet.
Oh.
I saw your post online and
I'm just so glad you found it.
You have no idea what
that bracelet means to me.
You know what?
Actually I do.
Spent so much money
on those charms.
Christmas tree alone
was nearly $3,000.
Yeah.
To make sure that the person
claiming it was legit,
I removed one of the charms.
Would you mind
describing it for me?
Was it a wreath?
No.
Okay.
At least you didn't
give it to some scammer,
they're everywhere
this time of year.
What is this?
A build it yourself
chocolate bar,
where you have
marshmallows, candy canes,
caramel, cinnamon sticks
and mint chocolate chip.
You don't have to go to
all this trouble for me.
I always do this.
I figure if I'm gonna
drink hot cocoa,
I may as well make it fun.
Okay.
it definitely does look fun.
Starting with some of the these,
'cause extra chocolate and
you just can't go wrong.
Makes it better.
Marshmallows, obviously.
of course.
You barely put any in there.
- that woman really had me going
until she mentioned how much
she paid for the tree charm,
I knew she couldn't have
had it since the '80s.
Wait a minute, it
wasn't her bracelet,
but she knew how much
the tree charm was worth,
she would only know that if-
- she's a charm collector.
We've been going
about this all wrong.
Instead of talking to
people who sell terms,
we need to be talking
to people who buy them.
Exactly.
Good catch.
greg.
How's the story going?
Slow, but plugging away.
You don't happen to know anyone
that collects charms, do you?
Actually I do.
My friend does
and has for years,
she would be a good
resource for you.
That's fantastic,
can I get her number?
That's the problem, she's
out of town at the moment,
but I invited her
to our office party,
so you can chat with her then.
- Did it on purpose, didn't you?
You're welcome.
You can't force me to come
to your christmas party.
I think I just did.
She did.
what do you make of
the steam engine charm?
Toy trains are
popular at christmas.
Did you have train set
when you were little?
yeah, actually I did.
When I was about five, I
came down christmas morning
to find one circling the tree.
I loved it.
Hey, do you still have it?
Yeah, but it's
just packed away
in my storage closet with
all the other decoration.
Oh, can I see it?
I mean, it may help us figure
out what this time means.
Of course it was all
the way in the back.
when is the last
time he saw that train?
It has been a long time.
Wow, it's a lot heavier
than I remember it being.
That is heavy.
Oh, I love it.
Wow, it's so detailed.
I was hoping it would
give us some kind of clue
about the steam
engine, but nothing.
It's beautiful though.
since all these decorations
are already out,
you wanna put them up?
We could use a
little inspiration.
Come on.
Does this go on a tree?
Yes.
do we just do the front
or do we do all the sides?
All of it.
that's is crinkly.
looking good?
I think it completes
the tree definitely.
Turn it on.
yay.
all aboard.
so what do you think?
Think we make a
pretty good team.
Me too.
My editor sheyla,
has a charm collector
to our company christmas
party tomorrow night.
Oh great.
Yeah, so I was thinking
maybe we could show
her the bracelet,
see what she thinks.
We?
Do you want me to go to?
- Yeah, everyone brings a date.
Well, not a date.
Everyone just brings
someone that they know.
And since this is to learn
about the charm bracelet,
it makes sense that
you would come with me,
as date, not date.
sure.
Okay.
Yeah.
Okay, so I'll
pick you up at 7:00?
hi.
Hey, come on in.
So, I just have to
throw my heels on,
they're hiding
somewhere in my closet.
You look great by the way.
You too.
this looks exactly like the
gingerbread house my mom made.
That was the
inspiration actually.
Yeah, I thought
appendant would be cute
for a necklace or something.
- If you ever end up making it,
I'd love to give it to
my mom for christmas,
it would be a perfect present.
Yeah, of course.
I will give it to
you when I'm done.
Yeah?
yeah.
Oh, gift.
I forgot to get
sheyla a present.
Your editor?
Yeah, yeah, we do
this secret santa thing
and I'm the one who pulled
her name and I forgot.
I mean, we could
get her a gift card,
but I don't even
know where she shops.
I have an idea.
What kind of jewelry
does she like?
I know she doesn't like
bracelets, she told me that.
Necklaces maybe?
All right.
Do you know what
length she likes?
Matinee, opera.
Long, longish I guess.
Okay.
What about the style?
Does she like cable link?
Rope?
Is twine a thing?
No.
Oh, you know what?
Here.
Let me show you a picture
of her from the company bio.
Ah, so she likes lariats.
Oh, okay.
How about this?
Similar in style but
it has a snowflake.
Did you make that?
Yeah.
it's stunning.
Thank you.
Well, if you think
she'll like it,
I can go wrap it up
for you real quick.
Yeah.
Okay.
it's true.
oh wow,
this is beautiful.
Yeah, it looks great.
I've never come to
one of these before.
I can't believe you
didn't want to come tonight.
We should probably
put this under the tree.
This one here.
Greg.
Hey sheyla.
This is anastasia.
Anastasia, greg.
And you must be holly.
Yes, hi.
Nice to meet you.
Likewise.
And thank you so much
for taking the time.
The caterer had
a question for me,
so I'm gonna let you guys talk.
So you have a
bracelet to show me?
Yes.
There you go.
Oh, wow.
Look at this one.
Oh, the angel?
I know it's so detailed.
That's not an angel.
It's.
It's what?
the snow maiden, in russia,
father christmas or santa,
comes on January 7th
instead of December 25th.
is his granddaughter.
And she plans spectacular
new year's parties
for all the children,
with music and food
and festive decorations.
So that's not a halo?
It's a a
traditional russian headdress.
See how it's slightly
pointed at the top?
Oh yeah.
So our owner is either
german or russian
or maybe just a world traveler.
What makes you
think she's german?
The nutcracker
made in germany.
That might be true, but this
is painted to look russian.
This uniform matches the
costume of the nutcracker
in the russian ballet.
She's right,
they're identical.
I'm thinking,
since all the charms
represent big life events,
maybe mrs x has something to
do with the russian ballet,
maybe she's a ballerina.
And if so then she most
likely has a russian name.
Okay, now we actually
have something to go on.
Thank you so much.
don't forget the charms
are in chronological order.
So let's say she got
one charm per year,
that makes the two baby
terms from 1984 and '87.
Wait, we know something else.
What?
What do most couples do
before they have a baby?
They get married.
Look at the charm she added
a year before the first baby.
Initially I thought that
they were christmas bells,
but they're wedding bells.
So that means that
she was married in '83,
so if I pull the
marriage records
and then I cross reference them
with the ballet
roster from 1980.
That's great.
Okay, I still have these
almost identical elves,
'85 and '88.
and then we also
have the steam engine.
Yeah.
Hey look, there's something
scratched on the bottom.
Does it say joy?
Maybe that's a name?
Yeah.
All right everyone,
it's time for our secret
santa gift exchange.
I will be right back.
Greg.
Hey.
Hey, just so you know.
My cousin got into the
hamptons last night
in case you're still
looking for a hero story.
Oh, I actually
found one already,
but thanks, I appreciate it.
Here's denise's number in
case you change your mind.
Merry christmas.
Okay, I'll start.
it's gorgeous.
So striking and chic,
it must've come from someone
who knows me really well.
Greg, you pick this out.
The credit goes to holly
and she designed
that too by the way.
It might be my favorite
present this year.
Just don't tell my husband.
heard that honey.
everyone seems to like the
necklace you made sheyla.
I know.
One lady asked me how
much should I charged,
and I did not know
what to tell her.
You never sold
your own jewelry?
No.
Why not?
Because starting
a business is scary.
What if I put all my time
and money into something
and then it never takes off.
- You never know unless you try.
Is that 47?
Come here, I wanna
show you something.
Ta-da.
isn't that awesome?
The train even looks like yours.
Yeah.
- Oh, I love this store window.
It's just inspiring me,
the amount of attention
they put into the details
and it's stunning.
stunning for sure.
It's getting late, so
we should probably go.
Yeah, we should go.
hi.
This is greg matthews
from the voice,
I just have a question for you.
Was the long island
christmas train
running during the 1980s.
So if the person guesses
she's having a girl,
they write their
name on this one.
And if they guess
it's a boy, this one.
Adorable.
Well, you've done such a great
job planning for this, holly.
I really appreciate it.
Of course.
hey.
Hey, I am really sorry
to interrupt you at work,
but I found another lead
and it's a good one.
That's great.
Where are we going?
back in time.
How am I supposed
to know what to wear
if I have no idea
where we're going?
Anything from the
'30s will be just fine,
besides I thought
you'd surprises.
Here you go, size 11.
And we're gonna be
inside or outside?
Will I need a coat?
Coat is probably good idea.
This should fit.
so we're looking
for a guy named buddy
who works for the long
island railway for 40 years.
Yes.
See, I was thinking
about how you said
each one of the charms
means something.
So if the owner has a charm
that looks like this
old steam engine,
maybe it means something special
and buddy might know
something about it.
Yeah, but how do
you know the buddy's
gonna be here tonight?
You'll find out.
this is amazing.
The long island railroad
puts this vintage train
back into service
every December.
And then at the end
of the kickoff party,
everyone can get on the train
and takes around the city
drops you right back off here.
I can't believe I
spent my whole life here
and I never even
knew about this.
And the guy that I
spoke to assured me
that buddy would be here.
Let's take a picture.
All right.
there we go.
that's pretty good.
I'm a good photographer.
The trilby is a nice touch.
Pardon?
Oh your hat.
Oh.
Thanks.
You don't happen
to be buddy do you?
No, john.
But if you're looking
for buddy harrison,
you're in the right place.
You know him?
Well, certainly, he
was a conductor here,
my wife and I have
ridden this train
at christmas time for
years and he's always here.
A conductor you said?
Yeah.
Sorry, I don't see him now,
but the train doesn't
depart for another hour,
so there's plenty of time.
Thank you.
You bet.
This is great.
I know.
may I have this dance?
Ah, look at them.
Right now, they're the only
two people in the world.
Would you like
to dance with me?
Right now?
I know that one of the rules
was to have absolutely
no fun at all,
but I think the
ship's already sailed.
Far, far out to sea.
Wow.
Someone took lessons.
lessons to be exact,
for a story I was doing.
What kind of story?
About a guy who runs a
dance school for children.
Really?
Uh-huh.
He taught children
how to do this?
Yes.
Believe it or not.
There are children out
there that can do this
better than I can.
Now you're just showing off.
Look there he is.
There's buddy.
Where?
buddy.
Hi.
I'm sorry to bother you,
but we heard you used
to work on this train.
That's right.
I know that this
is a long sh*t,
but we were hoping you
might remember a woman
who rode the train and
she wore this bracelet.
She had a charm
that looked exactly
like this old steam engine.
Oh, well it sure does.
I'm not good with faces
and let alone jewelry.
What about this
scratching on the bottom?
Does that ring any bells?
Well, it looks
like j infinity y.
No, I'm sorry.
infinity sign?
Greg, he's right.
It's not an o, it's
j infinity sign y.
Initials.
anymore y names?
Oh yeah, lots.
Yesenia, yelena, yose
beta, yava, yunetta,
and the list goes on and on.
But we are making good progress.
Yeah, but it doesn't matter
unless we actually find her.
And by the 23rd or I
don't have a story.
- Don't worry, we will find her.
What makes you so sure?
Because magical things
happen at christmas time.
let me see jane doe's, I
mean, mrs x's bracelet again.
That is interesting.
What?
The empire state building,
the hudson river
is on the right,
so it would be
facing south, see?
Oh, you're right.
If it were a photo,
it would've been taken
somewhere in midtown,
but what building
would have that view?
- Well, it have to be in
between fifth and sixth avenue .
- Yeah and north of bryant park.
- And the angle is really high,
so it'd have to be
from a skyscraper.
the whitmore.
wow, it's beautiful.
It's amazing.
this is it, this is the view.
Let's see if it matches.
it does.
It's perfect.
It is so quiet up here.
- Things are constantly changing
but this view's stay the same.
I feel closer to her.
This was a charm right
before her wedding bells.
I know.
so you're looking at the photo?
Okay, great.
So is that charm something
that your gift shop
may have ever carried?
You've never sold
charms of skylines?
Yeah, I agree.
It's probably custom.
Okay, thank you so
much for your time.
things not going well?
Every time we get
close, we hit a wall.
I have faith you and
holly will figure it out.
I'm here if you need me.
hey, I'm just about to
run into my dad's store
but I can come over right after.
Actually something came up
and I need to head to
the hamptons for the day.
But maybe we can meet
for dinner tonight?
My place?
Yeah, sure.
Okay, great.
I'll see you then.
Okay.
Bye.
thanks.
Oh, hey there stranger.
How's it going?
Hey dad.
Could you fire this for me?
Hey, this is nice work.
Is this for your mom?
Greg's mom, actually.
He's the reporter
that's helping me
track down the owner
of that bracelet.
Oh, right, how's that going?
Well, I would love to
find her by christmas,
but we are running out of
time and greg's busy today.
And?
Come on, you can do it yourself.
Yeah.
At first I thought that I could,
but it turns out it's a lot
more fun with greg as a partner,
he's way better at
this stuff than I am.
hey, come on in.
Hey.
Hey.
I hope that you're not starving
because of the ham still
has about another half hour.
Smells delicious.
I know, but this is
a flagrant disregard
for the third rule.
Wait, was it the second?
What was the one that said
we weren't allowed to
have romantic dinners?
Most people who are
trying to be romantic
don't tell the other person
that's what they're doing.
I'm not like most people.
I'm very aware.
well, to breaking the rules.
And to finding mrs x.
It smells like
something's burning.
Oh, it's my gravy.
It's gonna be fine.
one new text from paul.
Hey greg, just
talked to my cousin.
She said you were up
in the hamptons today,
and reviewing her for
your holiday hero piece,
just wanted to check
in and see how it went-
- did you interview someone
for the article today?
Yeah.
I was gonna talk to
you about it later.
Was she a charm collector?
it's for a different story.
But your text message said
that it was for the
holiday hero piece.
Holly, there's
nothing that I wanna do
more than the article on you,
but I have a hard
deadline on the 23rd and-
- you don't think
we'll find her?
Not on time.
So you're bailing on me?
No.
You said that we
were a good team.
I'm not abandoning you.
I'm still gonna
help you find her.
I need to finish this article.
You're gonna help me find
her, just not by christmas?
The problem with
these kinds of articles
is that you don't know
how long it's gonna take.
And when you have a deadline,
at some point you need to-
- bail.
And not take the risk.
No, that's not it,
that's not the same.
Yeah, well, I
think I should go.
ic)
there you are.
What is this?
The christmas stork
lives next door?
Is it a joke?
If you don't like
title, I can change it?
Where is the charm
bracelet article?
Is it stork that
you're bumping on?
I want my cover story.
I told you we're not
gonna find the owner
of the bracelet by the
23rd, it's two days away.
Well, if it's the
deadline that's the problem,
I'll extend it.
January 25th, problem solved.
It'll be my cover
story for February.
It's not the deadline
though, greg, is it?
What's the real reason you
bailed on the charm story?
Why does everyone
keep using that word?
Because you did.
Look, I know you spent
six months at city insider
working on a story
that didn't pan out.
Eight.
It was eight months.
But you're never
gonna get anywhere
making the safest
choice possible.
Not even at the voice.
Watching you guys try to
put that puzzle together,
it's the happiest you've
been in a long time.
Don't let one setback keep
you from doing what you love.
Look, I'm not gonna force
you to do the bracelet story
because well, legally I can't.
as your editor and your friend,
I'm asking you to go back
to doing what you're good at
and love to do.
This is not it.
You ready?
I'm ready.
Okay, everyone.
It is time for the
couple of honor
to find out what they're having.
but first megan would like
to say a couple of words.
Okay.
Oh.
Hi.
I just wanna thank all of you
for celebrating this
journey with us.
Holly, you've just been
such a great friend,
helping me every
day at the store
and planning this
incredible party.
I mean, I couldn't do half
of what I do without you.
So thank you.
The love and the help
and the generosity
you've all shown over the
years means so much to us.
And I'm just excited for this
child to meet all of you.
red if it's a boy and green
if it's a girl, everyone.
Okay.
wait, twins?
Twins?
Twins.
I'm in shock.
Okay, now I know why
you gave me earrings.
- Well, they do come as a pair.
you
know your eyes light up
when you talk
about your jewelry.
that's
always been a passion.
My dad owns an
engagement ring store
and he says that jewelry
should tell people
something about you that
they don't already know.
That jewelry should tell
people something about you
that they don't already know.
I thought you would
have invited greg
to the party last night?
No, that's over.
Oh sweetie, I'm sorry.
You wanted to see the video
of megan opening the box.
Yes, I do.
The love and the
help and generosity
you've all shown
us over the years,
thanks so much.
That's it.
It really has been
right in front of me.
oh my gosh, I did it.
I figured it out.
- What, what did you figure out?
Megan sources all
the clothes she buys
from charity organizations
that accept used clothing.
Right?
So if the owner was
willing to donate a coat,
of course she's giving
to other charities too.
And I'm sure this organization
has kept donors records
look it's the charm
for this year.
Each christmas donors were
invited to a holiday gala
where they receive
a silver charm.
The donor appreciation
dinner is always held
at chateau on the
park, on December 22nd.
That's tonight.
I'm sure that somebody
there has to know who she is.
Maybe she'll even be there.
oh my gosh.
She's gonna get her charm
bracelet by christmas.
Oh my gosh, I can't
wait to tell megan.
a person's jewelry
should tell you something
you don't know about them.
What do you know about her?
She's russian, she loves
ballet, obviously her children,
presumably new york
city and riding trains.
The elves, that's the
only thing we don't know.
hi.
Good evening ma'am.
Are you here for
a charity event?
Yes, I am.
last name?
Oh, I'm not
actually on the list.
See, I'm just here to
return to something
to one of the donors.
Who you looking for?
I can see if they checked in.
- I don't know her name exactly.
What does she look like?
I don't know that either.
Can I just take a
quick peek inside?
I'm sorry.
You don't understand.
It's really important
that I find her.
I promise that I won't touch
anything or eat anything.
What if I made a
donation right now,
then I would be a donor
and I could come in, right?
Ma'am, it's $500 a
plate and invite only.
I understand.
Hi, sorry I'm late, sheyla.
You forgot this at the office.
Hey, greg matthews,
sheyla green with the voice.
Thank you.
Okay.
What just happened?
Every year they ask the
voice to cover this event.
So I called your store
and megan's mom told me
that you're already here.
So be my photographer tonight?
You're just back
on the story now?
I am really sorry for
leaving you hanging.
And I promise you, I will
never do that to you again.
What about your other story?
This is the only
story that matters.
If we don't find mrs x tonight,
then I guess we should just
have a good time of the party?
Don't do it again.
yes, this
organization definitely
does a lot of wonderful
things for children.
By any chance, did
either of you ladies
happen to use a charm bracelet?
Okay, well, thank you.
Would you excuse
me for just a moment.
Anything?
No.
Pardon me, I just heard
you asking our donors
if they had lost a bracelet?
Are you actually from the voice
or is this some kind of scam?
Oh, I'm looking for the
owner of a bracelet I found.
Whoever lost it is a donor
and they've been to
this event twice.
Oh, well, I'm the director
of this organization,
I have been for almost 30 years.
May I take a look?
Of course.
Here, pass me that.
There you go.
Oh, isn't that lovely.
Unfortunately, I
don't remember anyone
who would have had this,
but there are photos
from every gala
in that hallway back
there where you came in.
That's great.
Do you mind if we go
have a quick look?
Oh, my pleasure.
Happy hunting.
Okay, so this must be the
hall that she's talking about.
Oh yeah.
Why does everyone
always have their arms
around each other in
pictures, who started that?
greg, that's the coat.
The bracelet was in the
pocket of that coat.
That's her.
Wait a minute.
Isn't that the guy from
the train station, john.
John and yelena davis, 1988.
J infinity sign y.
We found her.
greg and
holly, please come in.
Mrs davis, it is so
nice to meet you again.
please, call me yelena.
John will be so
happy to see you.
I'd asked my daughter to
donate some old clothing
and I didn't realize,
obviously neither did she,
that I'd left it in the pocket.
Bringing this back is the best
gift you could have given me.
Thank you.
You're so welcome.
I figured it was
important to you.
Would you mind telling
us what the charms mean?
We spent so much time
speculating about it.
All of the charms,
except the elves of course
were gifts from john, so
I'll let him talk story.
I met yelena when
she was over here
with the russian ballet company
dancing in the nutcracker,
I went to their hotel for dinner
and heard some people
speaking russian
and I turned to
look and locked eyes
with the most beautiful
woman I had ever seen.
So I invited her to
have dessert with me.
And you obviously said yes?
I did.
And that's how the
tradition started.
The day before I was to leave,
the hotel staff came to
my door and brought this.
I looked all over
for a nutcracker charm
on very short notice.
and finally found a german
woman who sold me hers.
Yelena and I wrote
back and forth
and phoned for an entire year.
And then that upcoming December,
I applied for a tourist visa
and went over to join her
for christmas in moscow.
That's when he gave
you the snow maiden?
Yes it is.
And the following year, I came
here and john proposed to me
on the terrace of a hotel.
The whitmore?
How did you know?
We went there.
that's why we were
searching for buddy that day
on the train when we met you.
We were hoping if we showed
him the steam engine charm,
then he remembered who you were.
well, it sounds
like you've been
to all our favorite places.
You know what's fantastic?
This bracelet took you on the
same journey that we took.
Oh, you're right, honey.
Well, that sounds like
kismet, wouldn't you say?
well, whatever it is,
it definitely is magical.
It's the most inspiring
article you've ever turned in.
Probably the most
inspiring we've published.
good job.
Thank you.
There's one more thing.
I've really enjoyed working here
and I've enjoyed working with
you, but I think it's time-
- greg, I have to let you go.
This particular article aside,
you not a good feature writer
and that's why I've reached
out to a friend of mine
at new york magazine,
who's looking to bring on
another investigative reporter.
You have a meeting with him
on the third at 10 o'clock.
Thank you.
Thank you so much.
for you, mom.
Oh, it's too small
to be a gift card.
No more gift cards.
oh greg, it's so beautiful.
Holly made it.
You did?
I keep telling her
she should be selling
the pieces she makes.
Well, since you mentioned
it, I do have some good news.
I decided to open
a jewelry store.
Oh, you're kidding me.
Right next to megan.
Congrats.
Oh, come here, gimme a hug.
My girl, oh, I'm
so proud of you.
Well done.
thank you.
We have a lot to celebrate.
We do.
I suggest we start with the
cookies on the side table,
I don't know how
they know my name,
but they are just
yelling at all night.
do you know what?
I've made three types
of cookies and two pies,
what do you take in
your coffee, sam?
Just sugar please.
Well I have plenty of that.
We're all so glad that
you and holly joined us.
Let's have dessert
in the dining room.
Let's go.
Excellent.
Ah, hold on, wait, wait.
I have a present for you.
is this?
In english, we
actually call it cake.
I know it's been a while since
you've worn one of these,
but I thought maybe it was
time to start a new one.
The start a new journey.
A Little Christmas Charm (2020)
Moderator: Maskath3