Navigating Christmas (2023)

[bunniefuu]

♪ It's the smell in the air ♪

♪ And the sound of the season ♪

♪ Having family around
is the best kind of feeling ♪

♪ I love the way I feel
this time of year ♪

♪ Every day
should feel like Christmas ♪

[♪♪♪]

♪ Every day
should feel like Christmas ♪

♪ Unwrap the gifts of love... ♪

I consolidated that
into your primary account.

It's just safer.
Better interest rates, too.

Yes, I completely agree.

Transparency is key.

So, are you good?

Yes, teenagers
are impossible to buy for.

How about a pair
of Bluetooth headphones?

My son loves his.

They're on sale at Davros's...


Of course, I'm happy to help.

You too.
Happy holidays.

Do I need to talk to HR
about client boundaries?

It is very important

that I have a good relationship
with my clients.

And that's why you have
the big corner office.

- [clink]
- Cheers to that.

Oh, Ms. Dalton! Hi.

Hi. Hi.

Ellie, what's the word?
Everything okay?

Yes, okay, so, um, uh...

the final specs
on your bathroom remodel

just came in,
so I put them on your desk.

Your dry cleaning will be
delivered tomorrow morning,

and McKenzie's will have
dinner sent by seven.

I made sure to tell them
"no cilantro".

Okay, great.

Now stop working
and enjoy yourself.

This is your holidays.

Are you sure?

You don't need anything else?

I could, like, I don't know...
Organize client files,

I could tie up loose ends
on any statements?

Go have a drink
and enjoy yourself,

before I fire you.

Uh, I'm...

Ellie, I'm kidding.

Oh!

[forced laugh]

Okay, yeah!

Thanks, Ms. Dalton...
I mean, uh, Melanie.

Ms. Dalton.

Okay, yeah.

It must feel nice
to be worshipped.

Just don't let it
get to your head.

Oh, it is impossible
to have an inflated ego

when you have a teenager.

Are you kidding me?
I leave this building,

and I am just "Melanie Dalton,

the most annoying mother
in the world."

He'll come around.
It's been a tough year.

[sighs]

Okay. should we
go exchange gifts

before Richard does
his end-of-the-year speech?

I thought you would never ask.

[laughing]

Thank you.

Oh, come on!

How cute are these?

Thank you, Claire.
I love them.

Of course. I know
how important sleep is for you.

I cannot believe

that, last year, we were
sitting in this very room

as I bawled my eyes out
and you consoled me.

I was such a mess.

Thank you
for being a good friend.

Divorce isn't easy,
but look at you...

You did it, you got through it,

and you're on
the other side now.

Yeah, I'm just not so sure
Jase is.

He really misses his dad.

Well, at least they get
to spend Christmas together.

Yeah, Max gets to be
"the cool Dad"

who whisks him away to Whistler
with his fun girlfriend,

and I get all the attitude.

I swear, I'm not bitter.

You're allowed
to feel frustrated,

or envious or sad.

I know I would.

I'm just gonna really miss
not spending Christmas with him.

I'll be a phone call away
if you need anything.

You know that.

Thanks, Claire.

And, actually...

if you're feeling adventurous,

Tom from Accounting
was looking pretty good tonight.

Maybe you could see
if he wants to go to dinner.

Oh, come on!

Absolutely not.

Why?

Well, because I don't even know
if I'm ready to date yet,

and when I do, it will not be
"Tom in Accounting".

Okay. [laughs]

That's fair, fine,
but it doesn't need to be him.

But are you open to the idea?

[deep breath] I don't know.

Maybe.

I know you.

When you've been hurt,

you put up those walls
and you don't let anyone in,

but come on, it's Christmas.

Maybe it's a good time for you
to let down your guard a bit

and be open to something new.

I am gonna be...

wearing these,

watching
Christmas movies all day.

[laughing]

Okay, that doesn't sound
too bad either.

No.

Maybe some of this, too?

[giggling]

[♪♪♪]

Jase?

Jason?

Jason, I'm home!

[knocks]
Hello? Earth to Jason?

[sighing irately]

What?

Are you all packed?

Your dad said
he'd be here around nine.

Pretty much.

Okay, why don't I
help you, then?

I'm good.

Let me just make sure
that everything...

- No, hey! I said I'm good.
- Okay.

- Please. Don't touch my stuff.
- Okay.

Look.

I want you to have
the best Christmas ever

in Whistler,

but you cannot forget
your paper is due.

How can I forget?

You've only reminded me
every day.

You got yourself
into this situation.

Do you wanna be held back?

Yeah, Mom,
I want to be held back.

[sighs]

Turn it off, now!

- Hey!
- It's bedtime.

I can't wait to get away
from this place.

[♪♪♪]

[phone rings]

Max? Are you here already?

What?

You're kidding me.

He is going to be
so disappointed.

We'll talk about this later.

Hey.

He's not coming, is he?

[words catch]

It's Laura. [sighs]

She has the flu.

I-I don't care about Laura!

I just want to go
snowboarding with Dad.

He said he promises...

This isn't fair!

I know, Jase.
I'm so sorry.

I told all my friends
that I was going away,

and now I'm just gonna be
stuck here all Christmas.

You know that I would take you
in a heartbeat,

but I don't have
my passport yet.

We're gonna have a really fun
Christmas together, I promise.

All you ever do
is boring work stuff.

Hey! That is not true.

I am just as fun as your dad.

Yeah. Whatever.

[sighs]

I love you!

[sighs heavily]

[♪♪♪]

You're kidding me.

[Mel, on phone] I know!
It's unbelievable.

Every single ski resort
I've tried

is completely booked...

Vail, Copper Mountain,
Beaver Creek.

We have to do something.
You should have seen

the look on his face.

Poor kid.

I refuse to spend Christmas
watching him play video games.

Well, what about
going to Mexico?

I don't have my passport,
remember?

And I really wanna
go somewhere where

he can get into the Christmas
spirit, like he used to.

- North Pole?
- I also want to be able

to get there within three hours,

and maybe get
a decent cup of coffee.

Okay, not the North Pole.

Booked.

Booked...

Wait a minute, have you heard
of "St. Nicholas Island"?

No, but I'm intrigued.
Tell me more.

"Arrive by water taxi

and spend Christmas
in a unique location

by taking residence

in a historic
and idyllic lighthouse.

The island is known

for its enchanting
and festive community events,

and Christmas lights festival."

That sounds incredible!

See if it's available.

It says four other people
are interested.

[gasps] Now five!

Okay, well, hurry up and book!

- Are you sure?
- Yes! Prove to Jason

he has more than
just one adventurous parent.

Okay.

[click]

Booked.

[♪♪♪]

Pack your bags, kid!

We're spending Christmas
in a lighthouse.

[♪♪♪]

I can't believe
I forgot the Dramamine.

[breathes deeply]
Ohh. Just breathe!

Just breathe.

Want a bite?

Oh. [gags]

I'm good.

You look kinda green, Mom.

Just a little sea-dizzy.

I'm gonna go stretch my legs.

Do you want to come?

And watch you yack?

- Ugh!
- I'm good.

Okay...

Hoo.

Okay... focus on your breathing.

[inhaling] In...

[exhales] ...and out.

[man] Hey, you all right?

Ooh! I'm fine.

The water's getting
a little choppy.

Maybe you should move.

I'm okay!

Ma'am, I-I don't think
you understand.

Please, just let me
focus on my breathing.

[Mel wheezes]

Don't call me "ma'am".

All right.

- [splashing]
- [gasping]

[huffs indignantly]

Seriously?

[laughing]

Are you laughing right now?

I... sorry. I...

Look, I tried to warn you.

[huffs]

Here. Use this.

[gags]

Are you trying
to make me more nauseous?

This smells like
three-day-old fish!

Look, you do realize
this water taxi's

going to St. Nicholas Island,
not a five-star resort, right?

Really?

I thought
we were going to Hawaii.

Okay, if I were you,
I'd, uh, I'd get back inside.

Like, now.

You are not
the captain of this ship.

I will do what I want to do.

- [splashing]
- [shrieking]

[♪♪♪]

Welcome to St. Nicholas Island,
you two.

Always a pleasure having
city folk here for the holidays.

Thanks.

Sorry. What did you say
your name was, again?

Earl.

Earl Gleeman,
of Gleeman Transport.

Oh.

I'm also property manager
of the lighthouse.

I'm Melanie
and behind us is Jason.

Nice to meet you both.

Jason. Say hi.

Hi.

[laughs]

He's a man of few words.

He typically just grunts,

so if he's saying hi,
I think he really likes you.

I'll take what I can get.

[chuckles]

[♪♪♪]

[Jason]
This is where we're staying?

Come on!
It's gonna be fun.

A little rustic adventure
never hurt anyone.

You guys are gonna love it.

Hopefully, I have
my tetanus sh*ts up to date.

Online, it looked like
a Yuletide dream.

Come on, let's go inside.

Can I give you a hand?

We're fine.

[♪♪♪]

Really, Mom?

This is your idea
of a fun Christmas vacation?

Um...

on the photos,

this entire place
was decorated in Christmas.

Yeah, well,
I think you got scammed.

[sighs]

You didn't tell me
we had duties!

[sighs]

This is just a list of chores.

What? No!

This is absolutely unacceptable!

I'm calling the owner.

Whoever this Peter Sanderson is
is gonna get an earful.

[fast busy]

No service.

There's no service?

Mom, I can't do a whole week
without Wi-Fi!

How am I gonna Snap my friends?

Is this supposed to be some sort
of punishment or something?

All right, just wait!

[yells] Earl! Earl?

[wheezing] Whew!

Sorry. Hi. Um...

do you know
who Peter Sanderson is?

Of course.
Everyone knows Pete.

Do you know
where I can find him?

This time of day?
Probably at Ruth's.

Ruth's.

Where's Ruth's?

I'll take you there.

Thank you.

Earl!

Twice in one day, huh?

Can't stop thinking about
your shortbread cookies, Ruthy.

Can I get a few
for our newcomers?

You bet.
Comin' right up.

Okay.

Okay, so, is he here?

[Earl] Uh, let's see.

How can you tell anyone apart
in this sea of flannel?

Sorry.

There he is, right there.

Your mom's quite
a whipper-snapper, isn't she?

That's one way to put it.

I'll get us a hot chocolate.

Sorry, um...

Sorry.

- Sorry.
- Hi.

Hi.

Excuse me, sir?

[darkly] You.

- You?
- Of course!

Of course, you're the owner
of the lighthouse.

I am.
Is there a problem?

Yes, there is a problem.

My son and I
are supposed to be here

for a nice Christmas vacation...

[raising voice] ...and instead
we are at a seaside shanty

with Christmas duties?

You clearly didn't read
the booking instructions,

- did you?
- What are you talking about?

Well, you're
the lighthouse keeper this week.

- I beg your pardon?
- Well, it states

in the booking instructions...

Whoever stays in the lighthouse
over Christmas

must help transform it
for the Christmas Festival.

It's, um...
"the Christmas Star".

The Christmas Star?

Sorry, I have no idea
what you're talking about.

Uh, Ruth?
Can you help me out here?

Well, as legend has it,
many years ago,

there was this heavy fog,

and St. Nicholas
was lost at sea

as he was trying
to deliver presents

to the old orphanage here,

and he almost gave up hope,
until...

the light from the lighthouse

suddenly appeared
out of the darkness,

and it guided him to safety.

He called it
his "Christmas Star",

and since that time forward,

it's always been
a symbol of hope,

and for over a century,

it has been the main attraction

at our annual
Christmas Light Festival.

Wait, hold on. So...

you want me and my son to help
you decorate your lighthouse

for a Christmas festival?

Bingo.

And why can't you do it?

Well, he despises Christmas.

He's an absolute Scrooge!

He's allergic to the holidays.

He won't even pretend
to indulge,

and in fact,

this is his first Christmas back
in, what, eight years?

[chuckles]
What she said.

[chuckles, scoffs]

This is ridiculous.

This is supposed to be
my Christmas vacation.

Listen, the lighthouse
practically runs itself.

It-It's-It's automated.

All we ask you to do is just...

give it a Christmas makeover
before December 23rd.

What if I decide to leave?

Go for it.

The next water taxi
leaves tomorrow at noon.

Perfect!

But just so you know,

you'll be letting down
an entire island

of hopeful
Christmas enthusiasts...

Including many, many...

many children.

This is not
what I signed up for!

Actually, it's exactly
what you signed up for.

[huffs irately]

[heels clopping]

Let's go!



[heels clopping]

[♪♪♪]

You're on.

"For the care and upkeep

of the St. Nicholas Island
Lighthouse... "

blah, blah, blah.

"Staying here,
you will be responsible

for preparing
and decorating the space

for the upcoming St. Nicholas
Christmas Lights Festival."

Is this a joke?

I'm sorry.

I signed us up
for a week of chores

and didn't even realize it,

but let's keep
an open mind, okay?

This could be
a fun experience for us.

"Decorating duties include...

Stringing the lights,
hanging the wreaths,

wrapping the garland,

and placing
the lawn decorations."

Hard pass.

It's actually not that bad.

Can we please just go home?

I'm not gonna spend a week
decorating this place.

Okay, buddy, listen...

- [thud]
- Wait!

- Oh!
- I got it, I got it...

[Jason groans]

"My trip to the Space Needle."

Is this
your friend Joel's paper?

Maybe.

- Jason!
- So?

"So," your makeup assignment

is a 10-page paper
on a historic landmark.

And?

And your friend Joel's paper
is in your backpack...

Do you think I'm stupid?

Don't answer that question.

[sighing]

Were you gonna copy his paper?

I wasn't gonna copy it
word-for-word,

I was just gonna use it
as, like...

I don't know, a reference?

Okay. I don't believe you,

and this is going
in the garbage.

Wait! No, please!
Please. No.

I spent 25 bucks!

You are lucky that I don't
ground you for three months!

You're better than this!

I know this isn't your ideal
Christmas vacation,

but I signed a contract.

Big deal.
Just blow it off.

We don't "blow things off".

Dad does all the time.

Can we please just go home?

We're staying,

and you and I are doing

every single one of those duties
together.

Yeah. This isn't fair!

I'm supposed to be
snowboarding in Whistler!

Well, now you're spending
your entire Christmas

decorating the lighthouse.

Deal with it.

[grumbles]

[smoke alarm beeping]

Oh, no... oh!

Oh.

[alarm beeping]

Let the holiday fun begin.

[foghorn bellowing]

Ah! What was that?

Are we under att*ck?

No, of course not!

- [foghorn blasting]
- Oh. Maybe we are!

It's okay, it's done now.

Go back to sleep.

[foghorn bellows]

Are you kidding me?

[groans]

I thought they just lit up.

[Peter] I'm sure we can close
the whole deal before Christmas.

I'm gonna have to call you back.

Yeah, I'll get
the paperwork ready.

Yeah, bye.

Howdy, neighbor.

Earl.

What can I do for ya?

Just checking in, see how
you're making out, being back?

Well, it's like
nothing has changed,

except everything has.

Mm-hmm.

Your father, he wanted me to...

Earl.

Look, I-I appreciate
you checking in on me,

but can we just
leave the past alone?

Fair enough.

What are we gonna do about

the new guests
at the lighthouse?

Well, what about 'em?

[laughs] I think they got
more than they bargained for.

[sighs]

Well, then they should have read

the booking instructions
a little more carefully.

Peter, they need help.

Earl, the reason
I book out the lighthouse

during this time of year

is so that I don't need

to be involved
with the Christmas Festival.

Most folks are really
into the whole thing

without me getting in the way.

It's not a heavy lift, Peter!

Just give them a hand
to get 'em started.

It's Christmas!

[♪♪♪]

[♪♪♪]

Instant coffee...

okay.

Mm! Oh. No.

Hun?

I think I'm gonna go
and get us some breakfast.

Do you want anything?

[Jason]
I'm not hungry!

Okay.

[♪♪♪]

[♪♪♪]

House Special
for a special visitor.

[chuckles]
Oh, thank you!

This coffee is giving me life.

Well, that is what
I like to hear!

[chuckles] Oh, can I get
another one of these to go?

Of course.

My offspring is infuriating me,

but, apparently, I'm still
obligated to feed him.

The challenges of motherhood.

Can I help in any way?

Um... unfortunately, no.

Since his dad and I
got divorced,

he's been taking
everything out on me.

It's been hard.

I'm sorry to hear that, honey.

Just sounds like he's hurting,

and taking it out
in the wrong ways.

Yeah, tell me about it.

I just really want us to have
a good Christmas together,

but maybe I'm asking
for a miracle.

Well...

Christmas miracles

are what St. Nicholas Island
is known for.

You be patient.

He'll come around.

Thanks.

I just hope bringing him here
wasn't a mistake.

No.

[♪♪♪]

[lights clattering]

What is this?

This is ridiculous!

This is a mess!

Who would organize it like this?

I give up.

- [knocking]
- Hey.

Hey.

Jason, right?

- Yeah.
- Peter.

I just, uh, came by to see
how things were going.

Oh, we're just organizing
your mess.

Yeah... sorry about that.
I, um...

I just came by
to give you a hand,

if you need it.

[lights jangling]

We're fine.

Uh, we need it!

Seriously?

How many lights do you need
for this lighthouse?

Well, it's
a pretty big lighthouse.

I found the other box.

Oh, hey, thanks, Jason.

Nice job, man.

Why are you so adamant

about getting
this lighthouse beautified

for the Christmas Festival,

if you don't even
like Christmas?

Well, it's very, very important
to the island, that's why.

Seems to me like you just get
a bunch of naive tourists

to do all the grunt work for you

so that you don't have
to hire somebody to do it.

Pretty genius scam,
if you ask me.

Mom, stop.

You know,
people actually seek out

the experience
to run a lighthouse

over Christmas Eve.

I think they call it
an "immersive experience".

Uh-huh.

Ah, you're not very trusting,
are you?

That's an understatement.

[scoffs]
I'm a realist, so sue me.

In most small towns,

there's a tree-lighting
ceremony,

where people just gather around

to watch
the tree light up, right?

Okay, well, in this town,

this lighthouse is the tree.

Everyone gathers around
to go watch it light up.

There's carolers,
hot chocolate, there's...

It actually sounds kind of fun,
doesn't it?

Well, it used to be
my favorite day of the year.

"Used to be"?
What happened?

[exhales heavily]

Well, that's a long story.

But, um, come over here.
I want to show you something.

Okay, we don't want
any decorations

to cover this spot, okay?

Otherwise, I get
in lots of trouble.

How come?

Well, apparently,
many, many years ago,

when St. Nicholas
first came to town,

the first thing he did,
when he came to shore,

was kiss this spot, right here,

and thank the lighthouse
for guiding him to safety.

Really? Why?

Well, as legend has it,

the person who kisses this spot
on Christmas Eve

is endowed
with divine direction...

The ability to see
where you're supposed to go.

[Jason] Seems kinda weird.

Does it work?

I don't know.
I've never tried it, myself.

Wait.

You own this lighthouse,
and you've never tried it?

It's just some silly story
to bring tourists

to the island, that's why.

Well, any more questions,
or are we ready to work?

[Mel exhales with resolve]

[♪♪♪]

Goes right around there, yeah.

Looking good, guys!

[♪♪♪]

[♪♪♪]

[♪♪♪]

Wow! I cannot believe
that we did it.

It looks amazing!

Not such a shabby
seaside shanty now, huh?

- [chuckles]
- So, what's next?

Well, easy... you can just
take a long, deserved break,

if you want.

Great job today.

[horn beeps]

Would you look at that!

This hasn't looked this good
in ages.

What a fantastic sight!

Katie, this is Melanie
and her son, Jason.

They just came in from Seattle
yesterday.

[Katie] Oh! Well, welcome.
Welcome to St. Nicholas Island.

Oh, thank you.

This is the great
Katie Cameron, our mayor,

and her lovely daughter, Sara.

[Mel] It's nice
to meet you both.

I hope you're all planning
on coming to tomorrow's

Reindeer Games Carnival
at the community center.

What's that?

Oh, my gosh!

It's an absolute thrill.

We've got Antler Toss,

Santa Limbo,

we have a three-legged race
with a twist...

You name it, we've got it.

We've even got a treasure hunt
for Santa's missing toy sack.

That sounds great!
Jason loves treasure hunts.

Oh, great!

[awkwardly]
I... no, I-I don't.

[Mel] Yes, you do!

You play that treasure-hunting
game all the time.

- No!
- Yes.

No. I-I haven't played that
in years.

You're crazy.

Am I in the Twilight Zone
right now?

You'll be there, right, Peter?

Um...

Oh, come on!

You haven't been here
for Christmas in eight years.

You have to come!

As Mayor, I demand it.

Okay, Mom, you can't
force people to come.

Force? No!

Heavily persuade? Yes.

I will do my best, Katie.

[Mel] Yes, me too.

As long as I can convince him
to come.

Hey, Sara still needs
a partner...

'Kay, no, shh, shh!
For the three-legged race!

- What? You do! She does.
- I don't.

- I don't.
- [Katie giggles schemingly]

I'll-I'll tell you what, Jason.

I'll go if you go.

What do you say?

Okay.

Ooh! This is gonna be
just wonderful!

- [quietly] Thank you.
- Don't mention it.

You guys are in
for a Christmas to remember.

This is gonna be just magical.

I can feel it in the air.

Christmas on the island

is like nothing
you will ever experience.

[Peter] Bye, guys.

- Bye! [giggles]
- Bye.

This sounds like fun.

[chuckles]

[♪♪♪]

[thud]

[♪♪♪]

Oh!

Ready?

Oh!

Jase, you look so handsome.

Okay.

I'm serious!

You are going to be
the man of the hour.

Mom, stop. Can we go now?

Just let me get one picture
first, please?

Uh, I think
Earl's here, actually.

No, just one photo!

Come on!
Okay, hold on, I'm coming.

Gosh. So fast.

[♪♪♪]

Wow! This is incredible.

I know.

If anybody can put on
a Christmas party,

it's Katie Cameron.

No kidding,
it's like Whoville in here.

Where's Peter?

He said he'd be here.

If he said it, he will be.

In the meantime,
you do have me...

Your mother,
the one who birthed you.

Remember?

I'm gonna go get some punch.

[groans]

He's a hard guy to cr*ck, huh?

Yeah, he's like a cinder block.

♪ Welcome, welcome! ♪

Ooh! I'm so glad
you guys actually came.

This is going to be a riot.

Can't you just smell
the Christmas magic in the air?

Absolutely!

- [inhales deeply]
- You've outdone yourself

- again, Katie.
- Oh!

Yes, and your outfit is amazing.
It's very Rudolph-chic.

I was going for
more high-end "Blitzen Boho".

Right. Sorry.
I don't know how I missed that.

[laughter]

- Love the pearls!
- Thank you.

[gasping grandly]

Peter Sanderson,

before my very eyes!

Ooh!

Katie, I'm just
stopping by for a bit,

as I promised Jason.

[Katie] Sure, sure.

All right, I've gotta go
get the first relay started.

Get ready for a showdown!

[laughter]

Well, I'm just here to watch,
not participate.

Oh, me too.

Aw, don't be ridiculous.

If you're here,
you're competing.

No ifs, ands, or buts about it.

No. Mm-mm! Mmph!

Well, I see my partner.
You two should get out there.

Uh, thanks for coming.

Jason will be really happy
that you showed up.

Well, you guys worked hard
and stepped up yesterday, so,

I had to repay the favor.

[both chuckling]

Ooh!
Shall we try Ruth's cookies?

- Yes, please.
- Yeah? Okay.

[♪♪♪]

Oh!

So... uh, I'm so sorry.

It's okay!
You barely even got me.

If it was grape juice,
it would be a whole other story.

I shouldn't have
spun around so quickly.

Can... Can I do something?

Get some baking soda
or something?

It's fine, you don't
need to get anything.

It's fine. It's fine.

Well, actually...

you could be my partner
for the relay race.

My mom's making me participate
in all the games.

Really?

If you want to?

Yeah, def-definitely.
Yes. Yeah.

Great! Come on.

Welcome!
Welcome, everyone.

What a special evening this is,
to see so many familiar faces!

And some new ones as well.

As most of you know,

the Reindeer Games
is a cherished tradition,

where each team competes
in different challenges.

The winners will take home
the coveted Reindeer Trophy!

[cheering]

Whoo!

So, without further ado,

let's get this show on the road,
shall we?

And let the Christmas spirit
guide you... to victory!

[hearty laughter and cheering]

[♪♪♪]

[cheering]

[♪♪♪]

Come on!

Ahh!

[laughter and cheering]

- [cheering]
- Whoo!

You can do it.
Come on!

Yeah!

[cheering]

[♪♪♪]

[cheering]

[♪♪♪]

[crowd] Ohh!

Down, down, down.

[laughter]

[cheering]

Okay.

[♪♪♪]

[♪♪♪]

Yes!

[♪♪♪]

Are you ready? Yeah?

Okay, if we win this,
we could get the trophy.

Oh, "Snowball"
is my middle name.

Okay.

It's not, it's Marie,

but "Melanie Snowball Dalton"
has a really nice ring to it.

It does have a nice ring to it.

- Yeah.
- "Snowball-Dalton".

Okay, everyone... last challenge!

We currently have a tie

between Sara and Jason,

and Melanie and Peter!

Okay.

On the count of "Blitzen"...

On Dasher, on Dancer,

on Prancer, and Vixen...

on Comet, on Cupid, on Donner,

on Blitzen!

[♪♪♪]

Here we go.

[♪♪♪]

Come on, one more!
One more now!

Last one.

What?

- We did it!
- Time's up!

[cheering]

What the heck?
What was that?

[Katie] They've done it!

They've really done it!
Not a single marshmallow missed!

And with that,

it gives me great pleasure
to announce

this year's winners
of the Reindeer Games...

Jason Dalton and Sara Cameron!

[wild cheering]

Whoo!

Complete nepotism,
if you ask me.

Yeah, it is,

but I think the adult thing

is to probably
let them have it, huh?

Yeah, we could start a petition
and protest their victory.

Ooh, City Hall tomorrow morning?

You bring the megaphone,
I'll bring the signs.

Deal. I always wanted to start
a Reindeer Games revolt.

- [laughing] Yeah!
- Yeah?

[laughter]

Thanks, for that.

I have no idea
what you're talking about.

[scoffs]

You know...

if you didn't come,
he wouldn't have come,

and I haven't seen him
have this much fun in years.

Well, I wish I could

take all the credit
for him being here,

but I don't think
I was the only one

that convinced him to come.

Young love, hmm?

The best kind.

Okay, everyone!

Who wants to do another round
of Christmas Limbo,

just for the heck of it?

Okay!

- Let's do it.
- They do.

Come on! Line up.
Come on.

Let's do this!

[♪♪♪]

[cheering]

Whoo!

[Katie] There we go.

Whoo!

Yeah!

[♪♪♪]

Who are you,

and what have you done
with my mother?

It's called cooking,

and I heard
it's really popular these days.

Ruth gave me
her famous pancake recipe.

[dubiously] Uh-huh.

What are you reading?

It's The Beginner's Guide
to Morse Code.

Found it
in a box of decorations.

Wow. That's kind of amazing.

And I actually found
a newspaper clipping

inside the book

about a small boat
that capsized,

and then,

the old lighthouse keeper,
Hal Sanderson,

detected it
and saved all the men on board.

I have a feeling
that this lighthouse

has a lot more history
than we realize,

and we're really lucky
to be staying in it.

What if I did my paper on it?

That's a great idea!

Really?

Yes!

Do you think Peter
would let me interview him?

That is genius.

This is gonna be
the best paper ever.

- Thanks, Mom.
- You know what?

Peter's already here
fixing some lights,

and I think I saw
some more stuff

on the second floor
of the lighthouse.

I'm gonna go grab it for you.

[♪♪♪]

Hey.

Hey, you need any help?

- No, I'm okay.
- Are you sure?

[wheezing]

- Don't just stand there.
- Okay, okay.

Just relax and breathe.

This is not a yoga class.

Turn around
and walk down backwards.

Yeah, that's it.
Good, good.

Okay, I'm gonna walk up
and help you, okay?

- [snaps] Give me space!
- Okay.

Whoa! [gasps]

Thank you.

No problem.

[smoke alarm beeps]

[gasps] Oh...

[Jason]
Mom! Smoke alarm!

There goes breakfast.

[beeping]

So... you want to do a paper
on the lighthouse,

and you want
to interview me about it?

You grew up here, didn't you?

I did.

With my dad.

So, will you do it?

Come on, please?

It would really help.

Okay, I guess I'll do it.

[relieved laugh]

You sound so enthusiastic.

Just a lot of history there,
is all.

Exactly. That's why
he wants to do a paper on it.

I said I'd do it, snarky-pants.

I'm "snarky-pants"?

All right.

So what do you want to know?

Well...

[♪♪♪]

My buddy and I carved our names
in here when we were kids.

[chuckles]

And now he runs the water taxi.

Cool.

[chuckles] Yeah.

So... is this you?

Yeah. Where did you find that?

Uh, my mom found it here
the other day.

Is that your dad with you?

[sighs] Yeah, that's Harold.

Everyone called him Hal.

Wait a minute. "Hal".

He's the one
from the newspaper clippings.

He saved all those people.

It would be so cool to meet him.

Yeah, he passed, uh,
about seven years ago, now.

[sighs] I'm sorry.

Nah, it's okay.

He was a good man, yeah,
but we had a tough relationship.

Do you miss him?

Yeah.

Every day.

Especially this time of year.

I miss my dad, too.

It's been a year
since he left to be with Laura.

Sometimes, I think
he's forgotten about me.

No, hey.

Let me tell you something, okay?

Now, I just met you
three days ago

and I already know for a fact
that you are one special kid.

There's no way
your dad's forgotten about you.

Not possible, you hear me?

Okay.

Hey, your... your mom told me

that you're reading
a book on Morse code?

Is that right?

Yeah. Yeah, I found it.

- You know that's my book?
- Really?

I used to love
to send messages to boats

using the signal light.

Cool!

You want to take a look?

- Yeah.
- All right.

All right.

[click]

All right.

[click, clack-click]

[clack-click]

"H" is four dots.

[clack-clunk]

So what are you sending?

"Happy Holidays."

That's so cool.

You wanna give it a try?

- Yeah.
- All right.

Over here.
Hop in there.

That's it.

And you just hold
your hand there,

and open it up.

[clacking and clicking]

Mm! Hmm?

Best candycane cake-pop
ever, right?

Definitely top three.

I told you.
What do you think?

Mm, yes.

Yeah?

This is the Rolls-Royce
of cake pops.

Wait, are you patronizing me?

No. Never.
I would never think of it.

Oh, right.

Jason!

[Jason] Oh...

hi!

They're lighting fireworks
at the harbor.

Do you want to come with us?

Yeah. If it's okay

- with you, Mom?
- Um...

hmm.

Okay, fine, but you need
to come straight back

to the lighthouse after.

Deal.

- Hey!
- [laughing]

This one's mine, sorry.

[chuckling]

I can't thank you enough
for helping him with his paper,

getting him out of
his angsty teenage shell.

I think
he really looks up to you.

Hmm. It's no problem at all.
I'm just happy to help.

And I want to say sorry

for coming off a little strong
the first day...

Mm?

I do take a little time
to trust,

and I thought
that you were scamming us, so.

Scamming you? Okay. Well...

I wasn't the most welcoming,

so I apologize for that, too,

and it was my first Christmas
back since, uh...

[inhales sharply]

Your dad?

- Yeah.
- Yeah.

I'm sorry. Was it sudden?

It was, yeah.

You know
what the worst part was?

The last time I talked to him,

I told him how much
I just didn't wanna be like him.

Didn't want to end up
on this small, boring island

for the rest of my life.

Instead I wanted, you know,
to go pursue a bigger life,

but I wasn't here for him
when he needed me the most.

That's not your fault.
You couldn't have known.

Yeah, but it doesn't
take away from the guilt, so.

Oh, I know all about that.

Jason still blames me
for the divorce.

He thinks that it was my fault.

Maybe it was.
I don't know.

Well, I mean, it takes two
to have a relationship.

Some things
don't last forever, you know?

The thing
that's really weird is...

all the Christmas
family traditions

that we don't
do together anymore.

Hmm.

Jason used to love decorating
a Christmas tree

and listening
to Christmas carols and...

stuff like that.

Well, I mean,

I could always get you guys
a tree, if you want?

Maybe even help you decorate it.

I thought you were
allergic to Christmas?

I think I'll survive.

[chuckling]

Okay.

That would be great.

Yeah.

[Jason]
So where are we going?

To watch the fireworks from
the best spot on the island.

Cool.

Come on.

I have a better spot for us.

[♪♪♪]

Here it is.

Thank you.

Okay.

Here.

Okay.

So whose boat is it?

My parents'.

It's pretty cool.
Do you drive it?

Mm-hmm. My dad taught me,

but I'm not allowed
to take it out in the winter

because it gets too choppy.

Does your dad live
with you and your mom?

Yeah, of course. Why?

It's nothing.

You're just lucky.

I'd give anything to go back
to the way things were

before the divorce.

I'm sorry.

And ever since
my dad met his new girlfriend,

he's barely had time for me.

Sometimes, I wish
he'd just break up with her.

Why did your mom and dad
get divorced, anyway?

Mom was working all the time.

It just ruined everything.

Sorry. I don't know why
I'm telling you all this.

It's okay.

Are you hungry?

Yeah.

My dad usually keeps snacks
in the tackle box.

Okay.

Do you want a candy cane?

Definitely.

[giggling]

I'm glad you're here.

Me too.

[fireworks popping]

Come on, move over.

[♪♪♪]

[booming and crackling]

[Mel] Wow. It's so beautiful.

I have to admit...

St. Nicholas
sure has its moments.

[phone begins ringing]

Sorry. I have to take this.

Hello?

[fireworks popping]

Okay, so this is a test,

and if you fail,

I don't think we can be friends.

Those are
some pretty high stakes!

Well, around here,

we take our Christmas treats
very seriously.

I'd say you guys take
everything about Christmas

very seriously.

[laughs]
Yeah, we definitely do.

So what's the test?

So, every year, Ruth makes
two Christmas drinks

and the Island is split
over which one's better...

Cinnamon Eggnog

or Peppermint Hot Chocolate.

They both
sound pretty good to me.

No. You have to choose one.

I need to know if you're with me
or against me.

You really have a flare
for the dramatic.

You have no idea.

All right, here we go.

Well?

Hmm. Interesting.

"Interesting"?

I can't let you know which way

- I'm leaning.
- Okay.

Okay.

That's fantastic.
Definitely this one.

The Peppermint Hot Chocolate
is my favorite.

We can now "officially"
be friends.

Glad I passed the test.

I was nervous there
for a minute.

Me too.

So... what's the deal?

How did you and your mom
end up here for the holidays?

It's a bit of a story.

I was supposed
to go snowboarding

with my dad in Whistler,

but he canceled last-minute.

So... my mom
booked us a trip here.

Wow. That's pretty cool of her.

What?

Well, obviously,
she knew you'd be upset,

so she scrambled to book
something last-minute,

so you'd still have
something special.

Do you have any idea
how hard it is

to book something at Christmas?

- Not really.
- Okay, well,

it's basically impossible.

She's pretty cool.

Yeah. I guess.

[Sara laughs]

What?

You have whipped cream
all over your face!

You've got some
on your face, too.

No.

No!

[laughing]

[sighs happily]

How good does this look?

I feel like we're in

a giant Christmas
snow globe right now.

You're starting to sound
like Mayor Katie.

Hey, you two are getting
into the Christmas spirit.

Just admit it.

Uh, just a little.

Maybe a tiny bit.

Oh, just a little bit? Yeah?

Um, I am starting to decorate
back at the house a bit.

- Really?
- Mm-hmm.

Well, thanks
for picking this up.

It wouldn't be Christmas

without decorating
a big Christmas tree.

Well, you're welcome.

Oh! Actually...
this is your mail.

This big pile here.

Oh. I'll, uh,
I'll just grab that.

Yeah. [chuckles]

[inhales]

[♪♪♪]

Everything okay?

Oh, yeah. I, uh...

just got a postcard
from an old relative here.

Oh.

Okay, um...

I'm gonna go upstairs
and grab a couple of things,

but I will see you tonight
at Ruth's...

"pre-Christmas"
uh, decorating party?

[Peter] Yeah, we gotta put
the finishing touches

on Town Square.

Well, pal, things are looking
pretty good around here, huh?

Yeah.

You're so lucky
to own this place.

Yeah. Yeah, I am.

Sometimes, I forget that,

but you and your mom

have really made me
appreciate it lately,

so thank you.

Look, I'm, uh,
I'm gonna get going,

but I'm gonna see you
tonight, right?

Yeah. Sara invited me.

Whoa! Sara invited you?

You are really starting
to click, huh?

Yeah, but...

I think
I'm in the "friend zone".

A wise man once told me

the best kind of 'ship
is a friendship.

I... [stammers]

Forget I said that.

Not so good, right?

Yeah, well, okay.

Do you have a girlfriend?

Oh, no. No.

I've been a lone wolf
for the past couple years, so.

Don't worry.

You're cool.
You'll find someone.

[chuckles] Thanks.

Thanks a lot, pal,
I appreciate that.

All right,
we'll see you tonight.

- See you.
- Yeah.

[♪♪♪]

Oh, cool.
You brought our stockings?

Of course, I did!

It wouldn't be Christmas
without them.

I always loved these.

Me too. You know,

I made them just a couple months
after you were born.

Seriously?

Don't act so surprised!

My mom always
made Christmas really special

when I was a kid,

so I wanted to do
the same for you.

I guess you do a lot of things
I don't see.

It's kind of what moms do.

You mean the world to me.

You know that, right?

It's hard to believe

this is the first Christmas

we won't all be together
as a family.

I know. [sighs]

And it is hard,

but maybe it's time
for some new traditions.

I mean, honestly,
being here with you

is the most fun
I've had at Christmas in years.

Me too.

[chuckles]

Okay, well, I better get ready.

It's almost time to go.

Yeah.

I'll meet you down there.

'Kay.

Mom?

Yeah?

Thanks...

for doing all that stuff
that I don't see.

Any time.

[chuckles quietly]

[♪♪♪]

♪ Jingle bells jingle bells ♪

♪ Jingle all the way ♪

♪ Oh, what fun it is to ride in
a one-horse, open sleigh... ♪

Go ahead.

Thanks, Mom.

♪ ...Jingle bells
jingle bells... ♪

Hi!

All right, everyone,
we've got a lot of work to do,

so, grab an old friend,

or make a new one,
and let's get going!

Snow machine over there,
movie center over there,

and on lights and decorations...

We want those everywhere, okay?

And let's have some fun!

Hit it, Earl!

[♪♪♪]

[♪♪♪]

[♪♪♪]

Ha!

[startled] Oh!

Got ya.

[♪♪♪]

How's it going?

Pretty good.

I think I'm getting
the "hang" of it.

[both chuckling]

And how are things going
at the lighthouse?

I know it was a bit of a shock
when you first arrived.

Yeah, you know, I'm actually
kind of loving it now.

It's a little cramped
with a teenager...

Mm.

But Jason and I are spending
a lot of time together,

and it's really amazing,

and Peter's been really helpful.

Jason really likes him.

Peter's a great guy.

What's his deal, anyway?

[chuckles]

He's single,
if that's what you're asking.

Wow! That is not what I meant.

[Earl laughs]

I mean, why did
he leave the island,

and come back so suddenly?

No one knows, really.

I like to think
because he missed us,

but you'll have to ask him.

Switching gears.

What about you and Ruth?

What about us?

We've been friends for decades.

Oh, right, okay.

Plus, her Marty just passed
a couple years ago.

It wouldn't feel right.

Time is precious, Earl.

Don't waste it.

I hope you're taking
your own advice there, Missy.

Oh!

Ooh, nice work, you two!

Some folks
are coming to my place

for some hot cider and cocoa.

Why don't you come and join us,
and warm up?

I'm in!

So, care to take a walk
and admire our handiwork?

I would love to.

This is so magical,
it's like a dream.

Right? This island never fails
to deliver on Christmas.

I can't believe
you ever wanted to leave.

Yeah. Well, my dad and I had

a fairly complicated
relationship.

My mother d*ed
when I was really little,

and I don't think he ever really
knew how to be a single dad.

He just had a really hard time
with expressing emotion.

He was very reserved.

You know, that sounds familiar.

[chuckles]

Look, I'm trying to do better.

My last girlfriend
actually told me

that I was "terrible"
at expressing love.

Hmm.

But if she had a stoic
Swedish fisherman as a father,

I think she'd understand that
it didn't come natural to me.

Yeah, I get it.

Telling someone you love them

is the scariest thing
in the world.

It's like giving somebody
all of your armor,

so that you're just giving them
the power to hurt you.

Why did you and your ex split?

[sighs heavily]
Um...

well, Jason thinks

that it's because
I worked too much,

but the truth is,

Max left us for a woman
that he met at the gym,

and the reason that he couldn't
take Jason to Whistler

is because she's...
three months pregnant.

You're kidding?

Max wasn't ready to tell him,
so...

I told Jason
that she had the flu.

I'm just so worried about
how he's gonna react

when he finds out.

He was devastated
when Max moved out,

and now he's starting
a whole new family.

I'm sorry.

That's a lot to deal with.

It must make dating hard.

I actually haven't
dated at all yet.

I'm terrified,
to be honest with you.

You shouldn't be.

You're smart, you're beautiful,

and you're a great mom.

Anyone would be lucky
to have you.

Um...

listen, I have
something kinda cool

I wanna show you and Jason
tomorrow morning.

Can I stop by sometime?

We'd love to have you.

Well, it's a date.

[chuckles]

That's where it's coming from.

Nice touch.

- Yeah.
- Yeah.

Yeah.

Are you okay?

You've been staring
at yourself forever.

What? Yes! No.

Fine. I'm just making sure
I look presentable.

Why?

Why... not?

[knocking at door]

Come in. It's open!

Morning.

I come bearing coffee
for the big kids and...

a Christmas donut for the man.

Thanks, Peter.

No problem.

So, how goes the paper?

Yeah, pretty good, I think.

It's crazy how long
this lighthouse

has been in your family.

Your great-great-grandpa
used to live here.

That's so awesome.

Yeah. Yeah, it is.

Do you think we could come back
for March break?

Maybe?
Yeah, if it's not booked up.

You wanted to show us something?

Yeah.

Well, Jason, you wanna
know what it's like

growing up here, right?

I'm gonna show you
one of my favorite things.

Okay.

If you put on a jacket,
you can come, too.

[laughing]

Usually,
guest lighthouse keepers

don't get to see this, but...

since you're both V.I.P.,

I'll make an exception.

[gasping]

Ever since I was a little kid,

I'd come up here on the day
of the Christmas Festival.

Boats from all around would come
and watch the lighthouse

turn on its Christmas lights.

So, they'll all be here tomorrow

when we light it up?

Yup.

This is so cool, right, Mom?

Yes, it really is.

[Katie]
Welcome to St. Nicholas Island!

Merry Christmas!
Happy holidays!

Hi! I'm Mayor Katie Cameron.

If I can do anything at all,
please let me know!

Well, look at that.

There are so many people.
This is amazing.

[♪♪♪]

[♪♪♪]

[♪♪♪]

[laughter]

I don't know.

Numbers always
just came really easy to me.

I love strategizing
and planning,

so, yeah, my brain's just
perfectly suited for my job,

and I just did what I loved.

That's amazing.

You should be
so proud of yourself.

Thanks.

[Sara] Okay, come on.

- [Jason] Yes!
- [Sara] Yes!

Oh, hey. Check it out.
Two o'clock.

Oh.

[♪♪♪]

Hey, what's wrong?

I'm just realizing lately

that life is moving
really fast these days.

He's gonna be off to college
in no time.

It's terrifying.

Mm.

Well, time is very precious,
that's for sure.

You just have to make the most

out of the time
you have together...

now.

He thinks
that he's such a grown-up,

but he's really
still such a kid.

[chuckling]

He has these struggles
with abandonment,

mostly because of his dad.

I just want him to be okay.

Well, hey, he will be.

He's got you,

and you're there for him,

and that is all that matters.

You know, I loved my dad,

but, like I told you,
he just checked out.

You're not like that.

You're here.

You feel a lot of guilt
about your dad, don't you?

Yeah.

Seven years ago,

I was on my way back
to the Christmas Festival

to surprise him
and make things right,

when I found out he d*ed.

Every time I look up
at that lighthouse,

I just feel so much guilt and...
And heartbreak.

He sacrificed so much for me
and I just...

left him.

He knows you loved him,

and he would be so happy

to see that you're continuing
to make sure

that Christmas Star
shines bright year after year.

You're keeping his legacy alive,

and I know I never met him,

but he would be so proud of you.

You're an amazing person.

Melanie, I-I need
to tell you something.

[Ruth] Hey! Peter!

We're going dancin'.

Um...

maybe next time, but-but thanks.

Not this year. Mm-mm.

This year, we're going.

We're... We are? Oh!

[festive music plays]

[♪♪♪]

Okay. We're doing this?

Oh, yeah!
We're doing this. It's on.

- Really?
- Mm-hmm.

You're never gonna be able
to unsee this, you realize that?

Well, I hope not.

Okay. Uh...

[♪♪♪]

[laughing] Oh!

[♪♪♪]

[laughs]

[♪♪♪]

Just go with it.

It's always the quiet ones.

Yes.

[song ends]

[laughing]

I warned you.

Wow!

♪ I wanna hear the music play ♪

♪ I wanna dance
and laugh and sway ♪

♪ I wanna a happy... ♪

Will you ever be able
to see me the same?

I don't think so, but...

[laughs]
I have to say I'm impressed.

I didn't think
you had it in you.

[mocks hurt] Oh.

[Mel laughs]

Can I just say

I'm really, really happy
you're here?

I haven't enjoyed holidays
this much

in many years.

It's been magical.

You have made this

one of the best Christmases
I have ever had.

Right back at you.

[♪♪♪]

♪ ...Is it Christmas ♪

♪ Calling out to me? ♪

[♪♪♪]

♪ If I could be
with you tonight... ♪

[Peter chuckling]

But seriously,
that was, like, really fun, hmm?

It was.

Yeah.

Um, hey...

would you want to come
to dinner tomorrow night

before the big
lighting ceremony?

Definitely.

Invitation accepted.

Okay.

[chuckling]

Because, at some point,

we're gonna have to discuss
those dance moves.

I mean, they're jaw-dropping.

- Mm-hmm.
- Breath-taking!

Yeah.

No one can really explain those.

Not... Not even me.

- No?
- No.

Good night.

[chuckles]

Yeah.

[♪♪♪]

[♪♪♪]

Good night.

[dazed] Good night.

♪ ...I sing a song
that feel like home ♪

♪ This Christmas... ♪

[door opening]

[♪♪♪]

[inhales deeply]

Oh. Hey!

Good night tonight?

Yeah.

You okay?

Yeah, I'm fine.

You sure?

Yeah.

Okay, well...

I'm gonna go to bed.

We have a big day tomorrow,

getting ready
for the lighting festival.

Okay.

Good night.
I love you.

You too.

[♪♪♪]

[sighs quietly]

[thump]

Wait! You two kissed?

Shh! This phone is really loud.

I don't want Jason to hear.

Slow down!

You haven't kissed anyone
since Max.

This is big.

[whimpers] I know.

He's just so charming...

and handsome,

and he's really good to Jason.

I guess I just got
caught up in the moment.

Well, I think this is great!

It's about time
you started dating.

Whoa! We are not dating.

I am I-in Seattle,

and I don't even know

if Jason is ready
for a new man in his life.

Don't push something good away

just because it's safer
to keep things the way they are.

I know you have a hard time
trusting people...

Especially men...

But you deserve to find love.

This is not about
what I deserve!

This is about what's right
for Jason,

and right now, I'm just happy

that the kid hasn't
rolled his eyes at me

in the last three days.

Don't make excuses, Mel.

You know the best thing
for any kid to see

is their parent happy.

Stop being so wise.

It's getting really annoying.

Well, call me tomorrow
with updates, okay?

I'm so excited for you!

Enjoy getting your smooch on.

You're insane.

You love it.

I do.

I'll talk to you tomorrow.

[hangs receiver up]

Hey! How'd you sleep?

Okay.

Are you ready for tonight?

Sure. I mean, it's just
plugging in a few lights.

Oh, well, everyone here
is pretty excited about it.

I guess so.

[deep breath]

So, I invited Peter
to dinner tonight.

Is that okay?

Whatever.

What do you mean, "Whatever"?

I thought you liked him.

I do.

[sighs]

It's just...

have you talked to Dad at all?

No.

M-My service has been
really out of whack,

and I haven't even turned on
my phone these last three days.

Why?

I just haven't talked to him
in a while, and...

sometimes, I feel like
he forgets about me.

Hey...

buddy, no, that is not true.

Look, him and Laura
are just busy

and they're getting ready
for the new...

The new what?

Car. They're...

getting a new car.

Oh, okay.

But, if you want, we can
call him later tonight, okay?

Okay.

Hey. Jase.

Look at me.

You know, no matter what,

nobody will ever replace you,
right?

You will always be your dad
and I's special guy...

And I'm just
putting it out there,

but if you wanted to invite Sara
to dinner tonight,

I'd be happy to have her.

So...
let me get this straight.

You're planning on cooking?

Hey!

Yes!

I found this cookbook
in the cupboard

and I thought that it'd be
fun to make something

with a little
lighthouse history.

Okay, I'll ask her...

but, if I were you,

I'd have Ruth's
fish and chips ordered

as a back-up plan.

Wow!

Ye of little faith!

It's going to be amazing.

If you say so.

You'll see!

[inhales tensely]

It might not be amazing.

Mm-hmm.
No, I understand, but, look.

I don't think I'm ready
to do it just yet.

I-I know we agreed, but...

Look.

It's part of my family legacy.

Can't we just take a b*at?

You know, get him to back off
for a few days?

He's coming here tonight
for a final inspection?

[knocking on door]

Um, look, I gotta go.

Okay. Yeah.
I'll call you later, thanks.

Hey, Peter.

Hey, Earl. What's up?

Just stopped by
to see how you're doing.

Earl, I, uh...

[chuckles awkwardly]

I think I made a big mistake.

About what?

I have to sell the lighthouse.

What?

Look, Dad left
all these unpaid bills...

Loans, and tax notices,

and-and it's up to me
to pay them now.

It's a mess,

and I don't know
what else to do.

Hey, I... I'm sorry, Peter.

I wish you had told me sooner.

Yeah, I just wanted
to get it done,

and forget about it,

but now that I'm here,

I realize how much

this lighthouse
means to everyone.

I don't think
I can go through with it.

What can we do?

I don't know.

This guy...

Ray,
he's a real-estate developer...

He wants to turn
this property into condos,

or maybe a vacation home,
or something.

Wait... you mean
tear down the lighthouse?

Maybe. He hasn't decided yet.

Oh, Peter!

Earl, I'm so sorry.

I don't know
what I was thinking.

It's okay.

We will figure something out.

I'm just so confused right now.

About everything.

Including Melanie, you mean?

Earl, she's gonna
leave with Jason

after Christmas.

There's no... there's no point
to get feelings involved.

You can't run away every time
things get complicated, Peter.

Yeah, well, I guess
you're right about that.

Do you like her?

[sighs]

Yeah.

Well, then tell her!

[overlapping chatter
and laughter]

Now there's expectations.

[laughing]

Guys, this was so good.

I can't believe you found
that old recipe

and made my great-grandma's
famous holiday Julebolle.

[laughter]

Well, I'm just glad
I didn't butcher it.

- Mm-mm!
- I have a new kitchen,

so this is kind of
my return to cooking.

- Mm.
- [scoffs] Yeah, right!

She's never gonna cook.

She just likes the way
her new kitchen looks.

Hey, you never know!

Come on.

I thought it was delicious.
Thank you, Melanie.

You're welcome.

I may not be a chef, but...

they say
that the best part of a meal

is who you share it with,

and I couldn't be happier than
to share it with all of you.

Okay, Mom.

- That was really cringey.
- Really?

I kinda liked that.

- Me too.
- Yeah.

Well, you guys,
it's almost time.

Should we get outside?

Yeah, the carolers
should be here any minute.

- Okay.
- Oh, and Jason?

Do you want to help me
turn on the lights?

Really?

Yeah.

Yeah, I'd love to!

That's like a big deal!

[Peter] Let's get to it.

[Mel] Aw.

♪ Fa-la-la-la-la La-la, la, la ♪

Come one, come all,

to the great
St. Nicholas Island

Christmas Lighting Festival!

This ceremony is very important
to so many of us.

It's not just a symbol
of Christmas cheer,

but of hope...

A reminder that,
through the darkness,

there is always light
to be found,

to guide us.

That's why
Sir St. Nicholas

called it his "Christmas Star".

I also must make
a few honorable mentions.

This year,
our cherished lighthouse

was spiffied up and beautified

with the help of Melanie Dalton,
Jason Dalton,

and our very own
Peter Sanderson!

[all applauding]

Now, join me as we count down...

From five,

four,

three,

two,

one!

[power clunks]

[cheering and applauding]

[cheering]

Attaboy!

Really good.

I'm very, very, very proud
of you, buddy.

[Jason] Yeah?

Great job, you two.

It was awesome.

We should come back every year.

Well, we'll see
if Peter lets us.

Can I get you two
some hot chocolate?

- Yes, please.
- Yeah, you in?

- I'd love some.
- Okay, be right back.

Thanks, Mom,

for making this happen.

Oh!

I got a gift for Sara.
I'm gonna go grab it.

[contented sigh]

Excuse me.

Are...

Are you Peter Sanderson's wife?

Peter's wife?

No, I'm, um...
I'm just a friend.

Maybe a little more than
a friend.

It's really kind of
undecided yet.

Sorry, who are you?

I'm Ray Schultz.

I'm here
for the final inspection

and walk-through
of the lighthouse.

Will Peter be back soon?

"Final inspection"?

Sorry, I don't know
what you're talking about.

Oh, I'm-I'm sorry.

I just assumed everyone knew.

I-I'm buying the lighthouse.

I-I'd like to get the deal done
before Christmas Day.

Buying the lighthouse?

You don't, um...

really seem like
the lighthouse-keeper type.

Oh, no, gosh. Never.

I'm thinking about turning it
into a rental property,

or I might just demolish it
and build a house, you know?

Like, a-a summer vacation home.

I mean,
these views are incredible.

Tearing it down?

Does Peter know that
you're planning on doing this?

[Peter] Ray?

You're here.

I am.

How could you do this?

You're letting him
tear down the lighthouse?

- Melanie...
- You lied to us.

You used us to fix it up
so that you could just sell it!

No, that is not true.

Okay? I was trying

to do one last
Christmas Festival,

for everyone.

Jason is gonna be heartbroken.

This whole town
is gonna be heartbroken.

I honestly can't believe you.

Mel... Melanie!

Oh, sorry.
Can you hold this, please?

Mel!

Melanie, wait.

Melanie!

Wait, just let me explain, okay?

There's nothing to explain!

You know how hard it is
for me to trust people,

and you spent the last week
lying to me

so you could make
a few extra dollars.

I tried to tell you
the other night,

but then you...

you leaned in and...

I got distracted.

Oh, so it's my fault?

That's not what I'm saying.

Listen, this lighthouse
is barely functional as it is.

It hasn't been used
to bring people to safety

in over 20 years.

It's a relic,

and I can't afford to keep it!

Your father would be
so disappointed in you.

You know nothing
about my father.

I know enough.

[exhales] Okay.

You're the last person
to lecture me about honesty

when you can't even
be honest with your own son.

What are you talking about?

You...

You haven't even told Jason

that his father
is having a baby.

That is a completely
different situation!

- Oh, hardly.
- It's up to him to tell him!

[huffs]

You know what?

I'm not doing this.

Tomorrow morning,

Jason and I are leaving.

Mel...

Merry Christmas, Peter.

Fine.

Yeah.

[door closes]

[♪♪♪]

[♪♪♪]

[foghorn bellows]

[calls out] Jase?

[♪♪♪]

Merry Christmas Eve, buddy.

So, I was thinking...

why don't we spend Christmas
at home?

Jason?

Jason? Where are you?

Jason?

[bells jingle]

Hey, you.

Something wrong?

Have you seen Jason?

I've been looking everywhere
for him,

and I can't find him anywhere.

Maybe he's with Sara
and her friends?

Maybe.

It's just he normally
leaves a note

if he's going anywhere.

Let me call Sara.

I'm sure he's okay.

[♪♪♪]

[outboard chugging]

[♪♪♪]

[phone ringing]

Oh.

Hey, Ruth.

What?

[footsteps]

Anything?

We've looked everywhere.

But Sara has rounded up
some of the kids

to help look for him.

It's been hours.
Where could he be?

He's never even gone anywhere
without leaving a note.

Look, I checked
with the water taxi.

They haven't seen him yet, but...

Melanie?

Our boat is missing.

Sara showed Jason the boat
the other day,

and we think
he might have taken it.

What? No!

He's never even driven
a boat in his life!

Hey, it's okay.

We're gonna find him.

I promise.

You two, stay here.

We need eyes at the lighthouse!

Contact me
if you see or hear anything.

Are you sure
you don't need me to come?

- Positive.
- No, I'm coming.

All right, you go,

and I'll be at the lighthouse,
all right?

Don't worry.

Christmas miracles are what
this island's all about.

All right, we're good.

[♪♪♪]

[♪♪♪]

[wheezes]

[♪♪♪]

"The gift
of divine direction..."

Oh!

Okay.

[outboard sputtering]

[starter fails to catch]

[engine continues stalling]

[♪♪♪]

[Mel]
I can't take this anymore.

[tearfully] He's all alone.
He must be so scared!

We'll find him.

He's smart.

He'll know what to do.

[sighs]
Where are you, Jason?

[♪♪♪]

[flashlight clicks]

Come on, buddy.

[♪♪♪]

That's him.

[♪♪♪]

I found him!

Jason's off Benson Point!

Copy that!

[laughs]
He's using Morse code!

What's he saying?
Is he okay?

He's spelling out
"Happy Holidays!"

Let's go get him.

[♪♪♪]

Thattaboy!

[Jason, wrought]
I'm so sorry, Mom.

I really am.

It's okay.
You're... You're safe.

What happened?

Why did you go out alone?

I heard you and Peter talking
about Dad having a new baby,

and I realized
we'll never be a family again.

Jase, I am so sorry.

I wanted to tell you, I did.

Your dad wanted
to tell you in person.

He might be
starting a new family,

but that does not mean

that you do not
mean the world to him.

When the new baby comes,

he's gonna spend
less and less time with me.

I know that this
is a lot to take in...

but your dad loves you,

and he's always gonna
make time for you.

We both love you,

and nothing's ever
gonna change that.

Do you promise?

I promise.

And next time
that you're feeling scared

or uncertain,

find me.

Talk to me.

I'm your lighthouse.

And if you're lost
and you can't find your way,

I'm always gonna
be here to guide you.

You got that?

I love you, Mom.

Ohh.

[sniffles]
I love you, too.

[♪♪♪]

[footsteps]

Here, honey...
drink this.

Thanks.

I love you so much,

and I can't wait

to open presents with you
tomorrow morning.

Mom...

Yeah?

It's still early.

Go talk to him.

Who?

Peter.

You like him, don't you?

Jason.

The only thing
I'm thinking about right now

is you.

You deserve to have

someone in your life
that makes you happy.

You make me happy.

Mom, you know what I mean.

He's a good guy!

Go make things right
before I steal another boat

and never come back.

Too soon?

Way too soon!

[laughing]

Peter, where have you been?

Ray, sorry, long story.

We were supposed to sign
these documents hours ago.

I-I wasn't planning
on staying overnight.

Ray, I'm sorry...

but the deal's off.

What are you talking about?

I just can't sell it
and let it get torn down,

or be turned into
some vacation home.

No, no, no, no, no, no, no.
Peter, we had a deal.

I know, Ray,

but this lighthouse means more
to this island,

and to me,

than you'll ever understand.

I loved my dad,

but he was
a stubborn, stubborn man,

and he should've told me
about the debts he had,

the loans he couldn't pay
and the taxes overdue,

but he didn't,

and I can't do anything
about that right now,

but what I can do
is not sell the lighthouse...

because if I do... [sighs]
I'd never forgive myself.

Peter, I know
this isn't an easy situation,

and I-I feel for you.

Okay? But you said it
yourself...

You cannot afford
to keep this place,

so either I buy it from you
and you walk away debt-free,

or the government takes it.

Which do you prefer?

I need more time, Ray.

I-I still think
I can figure this out.

How?

[Mel]
I'll partner with him.

[Peter] Melanie?

Investing is what I do...

And that lighthouse

is the best investment
I could ever make.

Okay, wait a minute,
what-what's happening?

Who are you, again?

Oh, Melanie Dalton.

Peter's new business partner.

Bus-Business?
Peter?

I...

Well...

you heard
my new business partner.

She's made her decision.

Well, it looks like
another Christmas miracle

has come
to St. Nicholas Island.

[chuckles]

[Peter] I think so.

Ray, I'm sorry.

Thank you for understanding.

[brushing it off] Ah!

I wish you both
the best of luck.

Merry Christmas, Ray.

Merry Christmas.

[laughs]

Are you sure about this?

I mean, it's not gonna be easy.

Of course,
it's not going to be easy!

Anything worth doing never is,

and Earl can manage the property

- when we're not here.
- "We"?

We can register it
as a historic landmark,

and even apply
for non-profit status

so that we're exempt
from any future taxes.

You've really thought
this through, haven't you?

It's what I do.

Well... should we go
take a look at your...

Our... new investment?

Definitely.

[♪♪♪]

I'm sorry I didn't tell you
the whole story this week.

I just care about
you and Jase so much,

I didn't want
to jeopardize that...

and honestly,

what scared me the most...

was how much
I was falling for you.

Falling for me?

Yeah.

Well, good...

because I am absolutely
falling for you, too.

[♪♪♪]

[♪♪♪]

That one looks like
the lighthouse.

It does, and I think...
I think we saw this earlier,

and that's what
it looks like on the inside.

Yeah. Oh!

Hello.

Thanks again
for getting him that book.

He hasn't even looked at
the, uh, video game I got him.

Well, that's a good sign.

[chuckles]

And this is for you.

Oh!

The lighthouse.

Our lighthouse.

I love it.

♪ Whoa, ho, ho ♪

♪ Like the snow ♪

♪ It falls... ♪

Merry Christmas!

- Hey!
- Oh, come in!

- Merry Christmas!
- Merry Christmas.

Oh, Merry Christmas!

[♪♪♪]

Bring it in, buddy.

[♪♪♪]

[♪♪♪]