Christmas Note, The (2015)

[bunniefuu]

This program is rated G

and is suitable for
general audiences.

Trust me.

You're gonna love Wilsonville.

Can I take ski lessons?

Hey, look at that tree.

Yeah, they're setting up
for the wonderland celebration

on Christmas Eve.

What do you think?

It's awesome here.

Good.

And they have horses.

Here we are.

Our new home.

Ah, you're gonna need the key.

Go scope it out and then
help me unload, ok?

Ah!

Fresh gingerbread cookies,
Vivian, just like you ordered.

Oh, today's the day, Betty.

Won't it be so special having
your family together again?

Understatement of the year.

Thanks for the treats.

Merry Christmas.

Oh, same to you, babe.

Sorry I'm late!

I brought cookie
reinforcements.

You're a lifesaver, mom.

Oh honey, it's so good
having you home.

This is so hard to do alone.

How am I even going to afford this house.

Honey, you're not alone.

That's why you moved five
blocks away from me, remember?

So we could be close.

And you have Ethan.

Speaking of...

Oh, he's inside.

Ethan, come say hi
to your grandma!

Grandma!

Hi!

Oh, that is how you greet
your grandma.

And how do you greet
your grandson?

With cookies, of course.

Maybe you could help us first?

I was helping.

I was visualizing
where things go inside.

Mom says since I'm the man
of the house now

I can help organize
our new place.

I bet you've already organized
where the TV should go,

and the new Xbox
you want for Christmas?

Tell you what.

These boxes are really light.

Let's see how many you can
carry to the house at the same time.

You are so good with him.

Well, when a chore sounds fun
it's not really a chore.

I learned that from you.

Ethan?

I guess meeting
the new neighbors

is more fun than
carrying boxes.

Hi, I'm Ethan.

What's your name?

Melissa.

I just moved in next door.

Welcome to the neighborhood.

Why don't you have
any lights up?

It's only three weeks
'till Christmas.

Lights aren't really my thing.

I love Christmas
just like my dad.

He said he wished Christmas
was every day.

Then people would always be nice
to each other.

That's a nice thought.

Though it might be
a little unrealistic.

I'm gonna go.

Yeah.

Wanna see dad's medals?

There's a ton.

He was on his second
tour of duty

and there was an expl*si*n-

Ethan!

Sorry, you look like you're
in a hurry.

Come on, bud.

Was it something I said?

No, not at all, kiddo.

She probably just
has stuff like us.

Oh, how does time move so fast?

If you figure out a way
to make it slow down,

please tell me.

What a sweetheart.

Where are the Christmas
stockings?

I put all the decorations
in the hall closet.

I looked there.

Maybe you missed a box?

How's he holding up?

We agreed if I'm sad
he'll cheer me up

and if he's sad
I'll cheer him up.

We're a team.

Oh.

That goes in the kitchen.

What if I don't find a job?

Have faith.

I've already talked to several
people in town.

You'll find work.

I wish I had your optimism.

You do, it's just been knocked
around a bit lately.

We're gonna change that.

"Not a creature was stirring,
not even a mouse."

Dad and I used to change
parts of the story

to make it better.

I'm sorry, buddy.

I'm tired.

Let's just stick to what's
on the page, ok?

Yeah, that's ok.

I just missed how dad
used to do it.

"'Twas the night
before Christmas

"and all through the house,
not a creature was stirring-

Except for a velociraptor!

Then what happens?

The velociraptor hangs
his stockings with care.

The house shakes
and the chimney breaks,

which tells us...

That the T-rex soon
would be there!

No!

Goodnight, mom.

Goodnight, buddy.

Mom?

Mom?

Are you ok?

I am.

It's hard moving into a new
house without your dad.

I have an idea.

Close your eyes.

Now picture him.

Can you feel him with us?

He wants us to be brave.

What if I don't like
my new school?

Hmm.

I've been playing the "what if"
game tonight, too.

It's easy to be negative
when you're tired,

so... let's buy some
new decorations tomorrow.

That'll be fun.

And think about what you want
to ask Santa for.

We need to mail
your letter soon.

I might not write one.

Why not?

I just don't know
if I want to.

Do you want to talk
about it?

Ok.

Come on.

And it took us only
10 hours to get here.

Well, put me on the grill
and call me well-done.

Just look at you.

It's good to see you, Betty.

You should have seen
your mom's eyes light up

when she told me you
were moving back to town.

Like a Christmas tree.

Welcome home, darling.

Thank you.

Now, I made a list of people
that you can talk to

about potential jobs-

Uh oh, we've got a live one.

Come on.

Good morning, Betty.

You know, if you ever stop
selling these muffins

I'm taking you to court.

Robert, I'd like you to meet
Gretchen Daniels,

she's moved back to town
and she's looking for work.

Now, before you say
you're completely staffed up-

I'm- I'm completely staffed up.

Just know she'd make a stellar
addition to any office.

Just in case you
find an opening.

Ok.

You know, Robert

if I have to stop making my
Betty's everything muffins.

I will keep that in mind.

Nice to meet you, Gretchen.

Nice to meet you.

Betty.

You could ask Santa
for a new glove.

My letter is a work in progress.

I know what I want
to ask him for,

I'm just not sure
if he can do it.

Well, have faith.

You don't know until you ask.

You want to talk it through?

Hey, look. It's Melissa.

She works here.

She looks busy.

Let's not bother her.

Come on.

Oh, thank you.

After you, ma'am.

The store looks great, Melissa.

This took big effort.

Thank you.

Of course.

Santa's mail bag is
getting pretty full.

Sorry I'm late, Miss McCreary.

It's your first week, Josh.

This isn't a big deal,
be on time tomorrow.

Now help me with
the window display.

Uh, jacket in the back room,
please.

Yes.

We ran into our new neighbor,
She works at Wilson's.

Really.

I hope you introduced yourself
this time.

Not really.

I can't tell if she's shy

or just doesn't want
to be bothered.

Well, busy time of year,
honey.

Mom, she practically ignored us

when we were standing
on her front porch.

Not everybody is easy to get
to know, honey.

Well, if Kyle was here
he would reach out

and be overly neighborly
until we were all friends.

Doesn't mean you can't do that.

I suppose.

Kyle just made everything
feel easier.

Who's that?

Wanna get that, Ethan?

Merry Christmas.

Are your parents here?

Can I help you?

I'm looking for Melissa.

Oh, she lives next door.

I know.

She's not home.

I'm her mom's landlord.

Ramona left Melissa as her
emergency contact.

Is Melissa ok?

Her mother died.

She has to clear
Ramona's things.

Could you let her know?

2382 Azure Avenue, 2B.

Here's the key.

I need it cleared out
by the end of the week.

Wait, can you just
come back and tell her?

I barely know her.

And I've got a palmer waiting
for me.

I've got several buildings,
you know?

Thanks for passing on the news.

King me!

What?

It's Melissa, she's home.

Are you going over there?

I could come with ya.

I don't know.

I don't know what to do,
I don't even know her.

Somebody has to tell her.

She's gonna need a friendly
face right now, honey,

and you've got a friendly face.

You're right.

I should do it.

Hi.

I'm Gretchen from next door.

We didn't really meet before.

Ethan's mom.

I'm Melissa.

I'm sorry to have
to tell you this...

What is it?

Your mom's landlord
stopped by earlier

and he wanted me
to tell you...

What?

Your mom passed away.

How?

Did he say?

Did he say when?

No.

He just left a key.

Ok.

Thanks for letting me know.

I'm so sorry, Melissa.

I feel awful bringing this up.

Um... he needs you to go
to her place

and clean out her things.

Here, in Wilsonville?

Do you have anyone that
you could call to help you?

I'd offer, but it might
be something

you want your family-

No, no. There's no one.

Ok, well I'm just next door
if you need anything.

Thanks.

If you'll excuse me.

Of course.

Was Melissa sad
when you told her?

Of course she was, honey.

I told you, it's a sad thing
to find out.

No one expects to get that news.

Hey, Melissa.

Hi.

I'm looking for your mom.

Melissa.

How are you doing?

Do you want to come in?

No, I'm going to
my mother's place...

and I wanted to take you up
on your offer.

I could use your help.

Oh, ok. Good.

When do you want to go?

Now. Please.

I just need to get through it.

I don't want to do this.

I don't think I can do this.

I know how hard it is to miss
someone you love.

I know how alone it can feel.

Let me go in there with you.

You don't have to be alone.

What do you say?

You can do this.

Come on, let's go.

Are you ok?

You were a cute kid.

I can't believe
she kept all these.

We moved a lot for her work

so she was always
getting rid of things.

Well, you never get rid of
photos of your kids.

I have boxes of Ethan's
baby pictures.

My mom wasn't really like that.

She wasn't sentimental.

How long had she been ill?

I don't know.

We hadn't spoken in ten years.

I didn't even know she had
moved back into town.

We were never in
one spot for long.

Never long enough to put down
roots or make friends.

I know what that's like,

I've had to move a lot recently.

It's easier when you're
an adult.

When you're a kid

it feels like your
whole world is ending.

Melissa, you should see this.

"My dearest Melissa.

"I don't know why I waited
so long to tell you this.

"Please forgive me.

"Now that I'm sick I need
you to know

"why I made the choices I did.

"This isn't easy for me
to admit.

"Before you were born
I had a child

"who I gave up for adoption."

Come on, Ethan.

We're going to be late.

Gretchen.

Hi.

I wanted to say thank you
for yesterday.

Anyone would have done it,
it's what neighbors do.

I'm not sure that's true.

I can't stop thinking
about that note.

About all of it.

What it means.

If you need an ear to bend...

Thanks.

I just found out the burial
is this afternoon

so I need to get through
that first.

I still need to clean out
the apartment, too.

I'm sorry about your mom,
Melissa.

Thank you.

You were really sweet to her.

Everyone needs a friend.

Don't worry, kiddo.

First weeks are always
the hardest.

Are you going to the cemetery?

I don't think Melissa
wants me there.

I think she's used to doing
things by herself.

Doesn't mean she wants to.

Dad told me he went to lots
of funerals of soldiers

he didn't know.

I asked how come, he said
out of respect.

You must be Ethan's mom.

Mom, this is my teacher.

Be cool.

I'm Megan Andrews.

I'm Gretchen Daniels.

I went here and loved it.

Nice to meet you.

I can already tell Ethan's
a smart fellow.

Don't set the bar too high.

I'm a teacher, too.

I haven't been
able to find work yet,

so if you ever need help with
class I'm happy to volunteer.

I am gonna hold you to that.

Thanks.

See you in class.

Don't forget to mail my letter.

I won't, cross my heart.

Have a good day.

Betty has been sending
baked good every hour

since she introduced us.

I need the sugar to stop.

Betty is persuasive.

Well, she said the
same thing about you.

So?

Well, I'm a teacher,
grade school,

which means I know a little
about a lot but I learn fast.

When I got here there
receptionist was copying files,

she didn't greet me
for ten minutes

and three calls
went unanswered.

The truth is you'd save money
and be more efficient with me.

And it won't be long term

because as soon as a teaching
job opens I'm taking it.

So the way I see it is,
even though you aren't hiring,

you need someone.

Me.

I can hire you as a research
assistant, part time only.

I'll take it.

Ok.

Welcome to the team.

Thank you.

Hi.

I'll have a medium
dark roast coffee, please.

Coming right up.

I'm Betty, by-the-by.

You're Melissa, right?

Yes.

I'm sorry, have we met?

We were just talking
about you.

Hi, I'm Vivian.

You live next door to
my daughter, Gretchen.

Honey, I am so sorry to hear
about your mom.

Thanks.

No, no, no.

It's on the house.

Thank you.

That's very kind.

We heard about your sibling.

You really were
talking about me.

Sorry, it's a small town.

And we just can't get over
what a miracle it is,

you having a brother or sister
you never even knew about.

It doesn't even sound real yet.

The fact that my mom gave up
a child for adoption.

That's a powerful
kind of love.

Right, Vivian?

Oh, yeah.

The most powerful kind.

Vivian and her sister, Maggie,

they were both adopted.

They're children of the heart.

Yeah, that's right.

And I've got one of my own.

Melissa, this is so exciting.

Let us help you
with your search.

There's so many perks
of being a sibling.

You've always got someone
to talk to and laugh with.

Well, nothing like
that kind of bond.

I hope these two aren't
giving you too hard a time.

Not at all.

Hello.

They're good company.

How was your mom's service?

It's not a service,
it's just a memorial.

And I'm actually on
my way there now.

Do you want some company?

It's ok, you don't have to-

I know I don't have to,

but no one should bury
their mom alone.

I can't believe someone
left flowers for her.

I feel sad for her.

That that's it.

We used to fight all the time.

She used to say we were a team
and we had to stick together,

but that wasn't really true.

I never got to stick anywhere.

Or with anyone.

Whatever mom wanted us to do,
that's what we did.

Moms don't always know
the best way to be moms,

but there's nothing like having
someone who will never let go.

When I was 18 she got a new job.

Told me we were
moving again.

I told her I didn't want to go.

We had one last fight.

I said I never wanted
to see her again,

and that was it.

She left.

I ended up in Wilsonville
because it was the only place

we lived long enough
to feel like home.

And now, here it is, 10 years
later and all I do is work.

I'm just like her.

How's that for irony?

And here she just lived 10
minutes away that whole time.

I can't believe she had
another kid.

I can't imagine her trusting
someone else to raise her child.

Maybe it wasn't about trust.

Maybe she just couldn't
do it herself.

People have to give
up children for adoption

for a lot of reasons.

Then why didn't she
ever try to tell me?

It took her a while
but she did tell you.

She still gave you that gift.

A chance to find family again.

How could I go 10 years
without talking to her?

When do you start
your new job?

Tomorrow morning.

I knew Robert would
come through.

Now, we've taken care of that,

but what about Melissa, ladies?

She seemed a little nervous
about all the unknowns.

I had the opportunity once
to meet relatives I never knew.

Oh, you can imagine
the thrill.

No, it makes sense
she's scared.

She's never had this,
this kind of closeness,

a sense of family.

Then her mom leaves that note
with that bombshell?

I'd be scared, too.

Merry Christmas!

Grandpa!

Ha, ha, ha!!!!

Surprise, buddy!

Oooh, that's a big hug.

How are you doing?

Dad..

How's my favourite daughter?

Thanks for coming, dad.

It's gonna be alright,
sweetheart.

I miss him so much.

I know you do.

Mom never told me you were
coming, grandpa.

Yeah, that makes two of us.

Ah, Vivian.

Good to see you, too.

Looking lovely as always.

Thanks.

Being single for ten years
has done wonders

for my complexion.

Alright, well let's get
you settled, dad.

Ok.

Right up here.

Thank you.

Oh Gretchen, this is lovely.

I see you forgot to mention
my ex-husband

was coming for Christmas!

Well, you're the one who said

I should surround myself
with family.

I did, didn't I?

Mmmhmm.

Look on the bright side.

What?

You were in the same room
for a minute

and you managed not
to k*ll each other.

The night is young.

Come on, let's go make nice.

Don't tell my grandma,

these are supposed to be for the
Wish Bank fundraising thing

but I thought if anyone
could use a cookie right now

it's you.

Thanks.

That's more than one.

Well, then I also thought:

who wants to eat
cookies alone?

I heard about the note
from your mom.

So what was the bombshell?

Your mom didn't tell you?

I couldn't hear it. Was it bad?

It's not bad,
it's just uh... surprising.

Apparently I have a brother
or sister somewhere out there.

Really?

Mmmhmm.

That you've never met?

Wow, that's heavy stuff.

It is, actually.

Very heavy.

There you are.

Ethan, you can't run off
like that,

we didn't know where you were.

He brought me cookies.

Well, you better not
tell grandma,

she'll ban you
from licking the bowl.

Scoot.

Good luck finding your
brother or sister, Melissa.

Maybe they'll have some kids
I can play with.

Melissa, I've been thinking
a lot about what you said

at the memorial.

I said a lot at the memorial.

I over-shared.

No, no, no.

I'm glad you opened up,
it just...

it got me thinking.

I know you're upset it
took her so long to tell you,

but think about how hard
it was to write that note.

I think you should
do everything you can

to find your new sibling.

What if they don't
want to be found?

What if they do?

What if they don't know
you exist either?

You could be giving both of
you the most amazing gift.

Family.

If I was you
I would do it.

So what do you say?

What exactly are we looking for?

Clues. Some kind of lead.

Look for cards, letters,

anything that might have a name
or an address on it.

Hey, look at this.

Who's that with your mom?

I don't know.

I've never seen him before.

Why is the photo so blurry?

That's what's weird.

Why would you frame a blurry
photo of someone

unless he was important to her?

Melissa, look at this.

Oh, it's from my mom's cousin,
Kay.

"Dear Ramona, so lovely
to catch up with you."

And there's a PS with
a cell phone number.

I remember Kay was around
when I was little.

It was so long ago.

Well, she lives
right outside of town.

I wonder if she even
remembers me.

Maybe your mom
confided in her.

She might know who that
little boy in the picture is.

Yeah.

Call her.

Hi, Kay.

I'm not sure if you
remember me,

I'm Ramona's daughter Melissa.

Melissa!

Oh, I'm so glad you called!

Oooh.

Come, sit down.

This is my friend Gretchen.

Sit down.

I hope we're not interrupting.

Oh, not at all.

These kids are scary talented.

They're gonna be fine.

I am so sorry to hear
about your mom.

She hadn't been sick very long.

When you have a weak heart
these things happen so quickly.

It was so sweet that she came
back to Wilsonville

to stay close to you.

What do you mean?

Oh, well that's what
she told me.

She just wanted to keep
an eye on you.

She was so proud of the woman
that you had become.

She said you are such
a hard worker, too.

Manager at Wilson's now,
right?

The last time I talked
to your mom

she said how much she loved
who you had become.

How smart and
independent you are.

She really did want to reconnect
with you very badly

but she knew that you
needed your space.

Did Ramona ever mention anything
about having another child?

When?

Before Melissa was born.

This is the first
I've heard of it.

She left me a note.

Is there anything,

anything at all
you might remember

that might help us find
Melissa's sibling?

I remember she had a waitressing
job in town here

in her early 20's.

I can't remember where.

Maybe someone
there knew something.

Um... do you know
who this boy is?

No.

Do you think he could be
your brother?

Well, boy.

You didn't even know how
to turn the oven on

when we were married
and now you're cooking?

Grandpa's really good at
pasta dishes

but beyond that it's dicey.

I always knew how
to turn on the oven

when we were together, Viv.

Why would I want to cook

when I had the best chef
ever as my wife?

Oh, flattery will get
you nowhere.

It got me you.

Yeah, got.

Past tense.

Well, you know,
things change.

Look at me, I just took
a couple classes.

Yeah, cooking classes.

You are full of surprises.

Surprises make life interesting,
don't they?

Hey, let's get a tree tomorrow.

Yeah!

But you know what?

I will say this.

It is really, really nice to
have all of us together again.

Isn't it, Gretchen?

Definitely, mom.

Bon apetit.

Mmm.

Another kick?

No, just feeling
my size tonight.

You are the perfect size.

Doesn't it scare you how much
our lives are about to change?

No.

Because I want this.

And I'm excited about the change
because it's with you.

How do you stay
so positive?

Because I have you.

And soon we will
have him.

Or her.

Well, either way
it will be amazing.

I'm gonna pack up
some leftovers

and bring them over
to Melissa's.

Oh, nice.

Seems like you've made a friend.

She's hard to get
to know but I like her.

We'll see.

I feel like she's
hiding something.

Really?

Oh, by the way I um...

I uh, asked your father
if he would uh,

help with the baking
for the Wish Bank.

Hmm.

Seems like you've made a friend.

Oh, stop it.

Shh! Stop it.

I'm still your mother.

There has to be something here
for us to go on.

What if I find him?

I need to be ready
for the possibility

that he might want nothing
to do with me.

Don't give up.

I'm not giving up, I'm just
preparing for all possibilities.

Good or bad.

Was your mom a sports fan?

Not that I remembered.

Why'd she have this?

Maybe it belonged to the boy
in that picture.

This might be something.

When I was little we lived
across the street from her.

Mrs. Schwagger.

I stayed with her a lot
when my mom worked late.

They were friends.

Do you remember
her first name?

No.

Ok, let's see.

Here's an article about
a petition for a stop sign

at Clarke and Verdugo.

They quote a woman
named Essie Schwagger.

That's her. Essie Schwagger.

I'm not seeing a way to contact
her but now we have a full name.

Essie Schwagger,
that's a start.

She might be able to explain
the pennant.

Or the boy in the photo.

Or she might know which
restaurant my mom worked at.

We just need to find out
where Mrs. Schwagger is.

It's nice to see you, Essie.

My grandson is gonna love these.

Gingerbread are his favourite.

Here's your change.

It's Christmas.

Buy someone some cookies on me.

Oh, thanks.

I take three sugars in mine,
too.

I always tell people I know that
sounds like a lot.

It tastes too much like coffee
without the sugar.

Exactly.

It's all about the caffeine

and the sugar rush.

How's the search going?

We have some clues.

Now we just need some luck.

Oh, well don't give up hope.

Here, have some
gingerbread cookies.

You read my mind.

No, no, no, it's taken care of.

My last customer
paid it forward.

Wow, that's so nice.

Well, in that case
we'll take two coffees.

Coming right up.

It's Ethan!

It's open, come on in.

Hi.

Let me help you.

Wow.

What is all this?

Emotional reinforcements.

You're gonna have to be a little
more specific, kiddo.

Well, you're going through
hard times,

losing your mom and not knowing
who your brother or sister is.

Decorations will cheer you up.

First cookies,
now decorations.

You think of everything.

The best decorations
have stories behind them.

My grandma gave me this.

I want you to have it.

It's beautiful.

Can I give you a piece
on of advice?

Sure.

One time I heard
my grandma say

our outsides reflect
our insides.

If you make your house
look happy,

then after a while
you'll be happy, too.

Are you saying
my house looks sad?

Is it?

I guess this house doesn't have
much of a life

because this house
is a workaholic.

You were talking about the house
as a metaphor, right?

I don't know what
a metaphor is,

but it sounds like you need.
We can do Christmas lights.

I'll bring some over next time.

But let's put these up.

Alright.

Hey, is this the picture I heard
you and mom talking about?

That's the one.

I hope he's your brother.

He looks like someone
you'd get along with.

Hello!

Hi.

Hi.

Ah, for me?

You shouldn't have.

I didn't.

Ah, very well.

They're for the house.

I was at Fern's and I realized
I hadn't gotten Gretchen

a housewarming gift yet.

Oh.

That's it.

You're amazing!

Thank you.

I... If I knew she
loved flowers that much

I would have brought them
every day.

Ethan, honey it's time
for homework.

And we have a call to make.

I'll be right there.

Bye, Melissa.

See you, kiddo.

Do these remind you
of anything?

The flowers at the chapel.

They had the same silver ribbon.

Exactly.

They're from Fern's Flowers.

Fern Dunlop is a friend of
my mom's,

they play bunko together,

and the silver ribbon
is her signature.

Do you think my sibling
left those flowers

on my mom's casket?

Maybe.

Ramona just moved back here

so if Kay didn't leave
the flowers, who did?

It could even be Essie.

Alright, I will check and see
if I even have a record of it.

Huh, that's strange.

Is it Essie Schwagger?

No.

Normally I wouldn't divulge
this information

but I know this woman.

She's one of my regulars.

A real family person

and I think she would want
to know if she had a sister.

Her name is Kelly Robinson.

She lives at 2382 Azure Avenue.

Apartment 2A.

Thank you.

There you go.

That's my mom's address.

Are you ready for this?

You're afraid, but this could be
the start of something amazing.

Ok, I'm ready.

Ok.

Hi.

Hi.

Are you Kelly Robinson?

I am.

And you're Melissa.

I recognize you from photos.

You knew my mother.

I did.

We'd have tea together
every evening.

Kind of an end of
the day catch up.

I always looked forward to it.

Would you like to come in?

Yeah.

Welcome.

How long have you known Ramona?

I met her the day she moved in.

Six months ago?

She reminded me of my mom.

We had this instant bond.

This might sound like
a random question,

but how old are you?

I am turning 38 next week. Why?

I thought you might be someone
we're looking for.

I was wrong.

But you and Ramona,
you were close?

She said she always regretted
letting you two grow apart.

I didn't even know she
had moved back to town.

She didn't contact me.

She wanted to.

She just thought
it would upset you.

She told you that?

Yeah.

She said she put pressure on you

and she didn't know
how to undo it.

She wanted to apologize.

I didn't make that easy for her.

And I think I was the one
who needed to apologize.

Have you ever seen this photo?

It was on her wall.

You know who that boy is?

Not really, no?

I think Ramona mentioned
he was an old friend.

Boy, Santa's got a lot of
reading to do.

Thanks for coming in early.

I really need to get
these letters

to the post office today.

I actually like coming in
before the crowds.

The store is peaceful.

Well I appreciate it.

I'll be back here
before it gets too busy.

Ok.

Can I bring you guys
some hot chocolate

since you're working so hard
out here in the cold?

No, no, wait! Melissa,
don't look!

I'd love some hot chocolate,
thank you.

No, grandpa!

She can't know what we're
doing until we're done.

No peeking, I promise.

What are you thinking, grandpa?

Hmm.

Tell me what this needs.

Mmm.

More red pepper.

Ok.

I let myself in.

Something smells really good.

Oh, well thank you,
you better try it, ok?

Tell me if I made it
too spicy, or...

It's got a kick.

I like it.

I think it could even use
a little more-

Red pepper, right?

I mean, as far as I'm concerned-

The spicier the better.

Absolutely.

Ok, you can stay for dinner.

You passed the spice test.

Oh, is that Kyle?

Yes, he's never late
for one of our calls.

Hello?

It's so good to hear your voice.

You heard my voice last night.

That doesn't make it any less
good to hear.

You sound so much stronger
every time we talk.

You do.

How are you feeling today?

Better.

I'm actually calling
with good news.

I did a whole lap around
the fourth floor

without my walker.

I feel like a new man.

Does that mean you're
coming home?

Please say you're coming home.

I'm coming home.

The General signed
my release papers.

I'm gonna catch the first
flight I can to get out of here.

Is there anything I need to do
to get the house ready?

I'm gonna do some physical
therapy outpatient,

but I'll figure that out
when I get home.

I just can't wait to
see you and Ethan.

I love you so much.

I love you, too, baby.

Oh, he's coming home
for Christmas!

Yes, can you believe this?

That's just wonderful news!

I'm so happy.

I thought he...

when you were moving in

and Ethan said there was an
expl*si*n, I thought...

I didn't know he
was still alive.

There was a land mine.

The truck in front
of Kyle's got hit.

Kyle's truck rolled,
his legs got pinned

but he was very lucky.

He really sounds like
he's making progress.

That's so great.

Where is he?

At a military hospital
in Germany.

He told me to come home
with my family

while he was recovering.

I'm so sorry.

I... I thought he was...

Melissa.

Where are you going?

You should be with family
and friends right now.

I am.

How am I a friend when I had
no idea Kyle was alive?

He's your husband I never even
asked about him.

I never asked how you were.

All I cared about was
what I was going through.

Well, you've been going
through a lot

so you can cut yourself
some slack.

And to tell you the truth,
after what we've been through

you're part of my family
whether you like it or not.

I should have asked.

Melissa, look!

Ta-dah!

Look, we all make mistakes.

I'm not going anywhere.

Dinner is about ready.

Come back inside and you can
ask me anything you want.

You coming?

Ethan, you rock!

I may have to put you to work
on the windows at Wilson's.

Come on, buddy.

Wait up, wait up!

If I ever find my brother
I hope he's just like you.

When you find him,

ask him where he got that
awesome Wilson's Warriors hat

he's wearing in that photo.

I didn't know that was
a Wilson's Warriors hat.

But it makes sense.

They've updated their mascot
logo by now.

That explains the pennant
we found in Ramona's things.

It was a Warriors pennant.

What if your brother played
on the team?

Maybe Ramona went
to watch him play.

We should talk
to Jason Wilson.

He runs the store.

Ok.

Come.

Alright, I found it.

Ok.

Could you walk us through
the rest of the team.

and do you know if any
of them were adopted?

We think one of them might be
Melissa's brother.

Well, we were a pretty
tight-knit team,

I knew all their families.

The only one I
didn't know was him.

I don't remember his name.

Do you think he looks like me?

Actually, he does.

You've got the same cheek bones.

Here.

Is this the same boy?

Um, maybe.

I don't know, I'm not sure.

Look, why don't you
just hang on to this.

You might need it.

Thank you.

What do you think?

I don't know.

It's so blurry.

So, tell me why cooking class?

Well, you know, after we
split up I was good for a while

but then I just needed things
to fill the void.

Here, try the fruits
of my labour.

Careful, they're hot.

Ooh, ooh, ooh.

Yes.

Huh?

That's a cookie, alright.

You know what?

Getting a compliment out of you is
like wrestling a bear but I will take it.

Thank you.

You're welcome, Phil.

I gotta pick up Ethan.

Ladies, we'll finish this later.

Vivian, those are horrible.

I know!

He's just trying to get
my attention.

You like him.

No!

Oh, Vivian Lloyd, you have
the hots for your ex-husband.

Oh, stop it!

I'm trying to be nice.

I love it.

Oh, it's romantic.

Why shouldn't you two reconnect?

Uh, let's see.

We were terrible together.

That was years ago.

Take a chance.

Oh.

Hey.

How is the search going?

Well, we might have two pictures
of him now.

It's inconclusive.

It's definitely the same boy
in both photos

and I think he looks a lot
like Melissa.

Ramona could be his mom, too.

Wait, your mother's name
was Ramona?

Yeah.

Ramona McCreary.

Oh, you're kidding!

Hold it!

I have no idea what she...

here she comes.

Betty's hall of fame.

Uh, yes.

There.

That's your mother, right?

She was here.

It wasn't for long.

I'd have to check my records.

And this is her friend,
Lori Ackerman.

Did you know her?

No.

They were roommates, inseperable.

You put the two of them together

and they'd talk your ear off.

She could be the person
we're looking for

to put the puzzle
pieces together.

Do you know if
she's still in town?

You bet your bonbons I do.

I even know where she works.

Your mother was like
a sister to me.

We did everything together.

She made me laugh so hard.

So you met at
Betty's bakery?

That's right.

I was still living at home
if I wanted to get a place.

Being Ramona's roommate felt
like summer camp every night.

So you were living together
when she was pregnant?

That's right.

Almost the whole time.

What do you mean almost?

The last month of
her pregnancy she left.

Do you know where she went?

No.

She was so young and she knew
she wasn't ready.

When she came back,
she came back without the baby.

That baby did change Ramona..

She was determined
if she had another kid

it would be different.

She'd get a steady job
and save her money

so she could offer
her kid a real future.

Did she ever say anything
about the adoptive parents?

She didn't know them.

How about the father?

I didn't know him.

But I know she didn't tell him.

She wanted to give that kid
a shot at a decent life.

That's all she
wanted for you, too.

Everything was for you.

Did you make these
just for me?

Mmmhmm.

I'm honored. Thank you.

Well, let's put them up,
shall we?

Yeah.

Oh, boy.

I bet you miss your dad, huh?

Yeah.

Do you miss your mom?

Yeah, I do.

My mom made a lot of sacrifices
for me and I never realized it.

I never really knew my mom.

Not really.

Promise me something?

What is it?

Promise me you'll always
stay close to your mom.

Even if you ever
get really mad at her.

I've been mad at her before.

I mean really mad.

Even if that happens,
don't ever push her away.

Ok. I promise.

Good.

Your mom was pretty.

Wow, these popcorn strands
are a nice touch.

I like them.

It's the home made stuff
that makes decorations go

from just fun to
something special.

I'll keep that in mind.

Speaking of special,

is there anything you really
want for Christmas?

Just one thing.

I asked Santa for it but I still
don't want to say it out loud

because if you say a wish
out loud you can jinx it.

Ah.

Well, I should go home
before mom wonders

where the popcorn is.

Hello?

Hey, it's Jason.

Josh had a snowboarding
accident. Oh no.

Ow.

Are you up for visitor?

Miss McCreary?

No way!

I mean yes way.

Visitor is totally welcome.

You sound like you're
in good spirits.

Are you in pain?

Oh, it's just a few broken
bones but I'll survive.

My snowboard, on the other hand,
is a lost cause.

Do you have work stuff
that you need to tell me?

I just wanted to see
how you were doing.

So don't worry
about work right now.

And if you need anything,
call me.

Thanks, Miss McCreary.

Josh, you can call me Melissa.

Melissa.

Thank you, Melissa.

Hi, grandma.

Melissey? Is that you?

Mrs. Schwagger?

You know my grandma?

Mrs. Schwagger,

I've been looking
everywhere for you.

Sometimes the best way
to find something

is just to stop looking.

I've been looking for you
because I need your help.

Can you talk?

You were always
so special to me.

How do you even-

I mean, I was so young
when you knew me.

Age doesn't mean a thing.

I would look after you
when your mom worked late

and we'd talk.

Mostly about how mad
you were at her.

I remember.

And you'd be asleep when
your mom got home

wanting a play-by-play.

And so I would tell her
all the things on your mind.

Did she ever mention
having another child?

No.

Well, she did.

And I think he might be
in this photo.

Do you know any of
these kids?

I'm sorry, my eyes aren't
quite what they used to be.

What about him?

Would you look at that?

You know him?

Of course I do.

He used to live
across the street.

He was always a good boy.

Still is, in fact.

So you're still in touch?

Well, not as much
as I'd like.

But I can tell you
where to find him.

***

How cool would it be if my
brother works for them now?

Very cool.

Hi.

The woman at the front desk
said we could come back here.

Are you Bruce Adler?

Yes. How can I help you?

Well, this might sound crazy

I think you might be my brother.

And then we found this photo.

Is that you?

That's me.

That's an incredible story.

I wish I could say your
journey ends here, but

I'm not your brother.

I was born in Canada.

We moved to Wilsonville
when I was eight.

So why are you in that
picture with my mom?

I met her when I was 10.

It was after our last
game that season.

We won.

I ride my biclycle to my pizza party

when I hit a pot
hole and ate it.

Twisted my ankle.

Your mom pulled over,
made sure I was ok,

and drove me to the hospital and
waited 'till my dad got there.

She kept me distracted by asking
me about the team.

I didn't know how to thank her,

so I gave her my pennant.

We took this picture when
she came to one of my games.

She kept your pennant.

Really?

That's amazing.

You had a really good mom.

She was there for me
when it mattered.

Thanks.

I wish I was the brother
you're looking for.

I do too.

You seem like you'd be
a pretty good one.

Stop by sometime.

Let me know how the story ends.

We will.

Thank you.

Uh, there's someone
who works with us here

at the Wish Bank who can help.

He's resourceful, he loves doing
this kind of thing.

We'd appreciate any
kind of help.

His name is Robert Layton.

I'll get you his number.

It's ok, we already have it.

So we met Bruce Adler.

Yes, he filled me in.

And I must say, Melissa,
your story really moved me.

Which is why I wanna help.

That's very generous, but I-

I've seen countless
lives changed

by the simplest acts
of kindness,

so please let me
do this for you.

Besides, Bruce asked me to help

and I can't say no to Bruce.

Ok.

Ok.

Thank you so much.

You're very welcome.

Uh, ok.

Well, the first thing
I'll need is Ramona's

social security and
driver's license numbers.

I think I have both at home.

Great. The quicker you can get
those to me,

the quicker I can start looking
for the adoption records.

Is everything ok?

Kyle just emailed me.

They changed his physical
therapy schedule

which is why he
couldn't call before.

He's going to call
in the morning.

I know you've been worried.

Well, spending the day
with you helped me forget

how worried I've been.

I need to apologize for not
being entirely honest with you.

I haven't been truthful
with myself for a long time.

It was always easier to say
that my mom was to blame

for why we stopped talking
but it wasn't her fault.

It was mine.

She didn't leave
after I told her

I didn't want to move again.

I left.

It was me.

I put the distance between us.

I told her I didn't want her
to call.

You were only eighteen,
Melissa.

I was old enough to know that it
hurt her when I left.

I wish I could take it back.

I wish it so much.

She knew you loved her.
She knew it everyday.

You told me that note was a gift
from my mom to me.

I never understood that before.

But I do now.

She let me forgive myself.

I miss her, Gretchen.

What do you mean?

My release, it's been delayed

until after the first
of the year.

They can't do that,
can they?

How can the tell you...

I will get home to you
and Ethan.

I just need you to
be strong for me.

Be strong for Ethan.

I'm ok, I just miss you.

I love you so much.

I love you, too.

Smells good, huh?

I don't know if I can fit
all of them into- hey!

Kyle isn't coming home.

What do you mean?

They delayed his release
until after New Year's.

I thought the General
signed his release?

It doesn't matter, the doctor
has to sign off on it, too.

How do I tell Ethan that his
dad won't be home for Christmas?

It'll crush him.

Excuse me.

It's going to be ok.

I'm sorry.

I just didn't want to cry
in front of everyone.

You can cry in front of me.

I try to be so strong for Ethan

but I just want my
husband home safe.

Is that too much to wish for?

Oh, honey.

He's on my mind all the time.

He's all I think about.

I know.

I'm so worried he'll come back
and be different.

What do you mean?

I'm afraid that this
whole experience,

getting hurt out there.

I'm afraid that it scarred him.

That he won't be the same.

He's gonna be the same Kyle.

The only way to know
for sure is to see him.

To look in his eyes and talk
to him and hug him.

Knowing I was going to get
to do that soon

has been keeping me together.

I just don't know if I can
wait any longer.

You don't have to wait
it out alone.

We'll wait it out together,
ok?

Of course.

I have to tell Ethan.

Before bedtime stories, there's
something we need to talk about.

I got a call from
your dad today.

Is he ok?

Yes, yes.

He's doing great.

But unfortunately he won't
be able to come home

in time for Christmas.

What?

You just said he was
doing great.

That means he should
come home.

That's not the way it works,
honey.

That's all I asked for
in my letter to Santa.

He has to come home.

He has to.

Honey, he'll be home soon,
ok?

I want him home now.

I know.

Melissa!

Hey, Bruce.

Did you find him?

I'm not really any closer
than the last time we spoke.

But Robert Layton's been
very helpful.

Happy I could help.

Someone told me that
you were part of the military.

Correct. What's going on?

Read this.

There's only five days left
until Christmas.

I haven't got much time.

Hello?

Melissa, hi. It's Robert Layton.

Ramona's social security
and driver's license

didn't yield anything concrete.

Is there anything
else we can do?

Well, this may be a
situation where too much time

has passed so it's hard
to get the info we need.

The records are old,
they're hard to locate.

Look, I'm working on it
but it doesn't look good.

I'll just-

I'll let you know if I come up
with anything new, alright?

Please do.

Thanks for your help.
You got it.

If this is the end
of our search.

I want to thank you
for encouraging me.

I'll admit it's been fun,

even though you
fought it at first.

I'm stubborn.

Really?

But it would have been
a mistake not to look.

Because along the way
I've met so many people

who I never would have
met otherwise.

You included.

Well, I feel the same.

I suddenly have the urge
to write "keep in touch"

in your yearbook.

Hey, honey. How was
school today?

I was kind of too distracted
by my feelings of malaise

to pay much attention to
Mrs. Andrews.

Where on earth did he learn
the word "malaise"?

He used it three times
in the car on the way home.

I looked it up on my phone.

It means he's sad.

Thanks, dad.

I'll talk to him.
OK.

Sometimes it feels like you'll
never get the thing you want,

but I don't want you to give up

because tomorrow is
filled with possibilities, ok?

Is that your way of telling me
I'm not getting an Xbox One?

You know what
I'm talking about.

We all miss dad.

But missing him can feel
a tiny bit less difficult

when we do it together,
you know?

Hello?

Melissa, hi. It's Robert.

Um, listen.

I found something.

Can you and Gretchen
meet me at 4:00?

What's going on?

No, he said he found something.

I was waiting for you.

Are you nervous?

A little.

But mostly excited.

Come on.

Ok.

Ladies.

Please, have a seat.

Please tell us you
have good news.

I tracked down an unpaid medical
bill at a collection agency

which led me to the hospital
that Ramona gave birth at.

Bruce had a connection there
so he made a call.

We talked to a Doctor Gibbs
and it turns out

that both of our
daughters go to Brown

so he offered to do me a favour.

You realize you're k*lling us
with anticipation.

I do, yes.

Doctor Gibbs didn't think
he would find anything,

I mean after 32 years he
felt that it would be difficult

to locate a birth certificate.

But...

Well?

Who is it? Were we closed?

It's quite something, isn't it?

I know it's your sibling
and you have every right

to keep it to yourself
but I'm your friend

and we've been on
this journey together.

We're not just friends.

It's more than that.

The adopted records?

Birth mother Ramona McCreary,

adoptive mother and father

I'm confused.

Those are my parents.

Is this a typo?

Ramona McCreary gave birth
to you at 3:15 in the afternoon

on April 4th at
St. John's Hospital.

She then handed you over
to the adoption agency

who had a private pre-arranged
adoption with your parents.

So I'm...

you're... my sister?

Are you ok with all this?

I'm great, are you ok?

I'm great, too.

We're sisters!

We're sisters!

Well, I take it
this is good news?

The best ever!

We need to tell your family!

Ok!

Robert, thank you. Thank you.

Please, you don't have
to thank me.

Now go see your family.

Ok.

Oh my gosh.

We have news!

What is it?

What happened?

You tell them.

Ok.

You know how we
always talked that one day

trying to find the woman who
was my birth mother, right?

Yeah, of course.

We encouraged you, yeah.

Well, we don't have to look now.

Her daughter found me.

Wait, you- you mean Melissa?

Melissa?

Yeah.

That's incredible!

Come here, come here!

Oh, give me a hug.

Now you really are
part of the family.

Does that mean you're
my aunt?

Yes.

How about a hug?

Wow.

Gretchen, honey,
what's the matter?

I just realized something.

If Kyle hadn't been injured,
I wouldn't have come home.

Melissa and I wouldn't
have found each other,

and it's all happened because
Ramona wrote you a note.

A note about me.

h* h*.

Cupcakes, get your cupcakes!

I'll take two, please.

Ethan loves your class.

I want to talk to you
about that.

Is everything alright?

More than allright actually.

My husband and I are expecting.

We got word this afternoon
that we're having a baby girl.

That's fantastic,
congratulations.

I'm taking mat leave
in the spring,

I spoke to the principal
and if you're interested...

I'll take it!

It's just to finish the year,

but once you're foot's
in the door

I'm sure you'll be able to get
a permanent position

with the school district.

Thank you so much,

you have no idea how happy
you just made me.

Merry Christmas.

Merry Christmas.

You know it's a grievous mistake
not to be selling my cookies.

We didn't want any lawsuits.

Oh, you are so jealous just
because I made better cookies.

Viv even said so.

OK. You know what,

stop with the cookies.

Your cookies were awful!

Ok?

And I think you purposely
made them that way

to get my attention,
didn't you?

Oh, you are so right.

They were disgusting.

Come on, I can't bake.

You're the one who does
all the magic in the kitchen.

Do you really think that?

Yes, I do.

Because you know what?

What?

I like you and I miss you.

Do you like me and miss me,
too?

Yes, I do.

Well then maybe we should start
spending more time

liking each other and less time
missing each other.

I would like that.

So would I.

Thanks, Mrs. Schwagger.

And for the special donation.

Gretchen is going to be
so surprised.

Happy to help, Bruce.

How do you know everyone,
grandma?

It's a reward for
a life well-lived.

You'll see.

Hey, Josh.

Hey, Melissa.

Mrs. Schwagger.

I'm glad you guys
got here early.

Grab yourselves some cider
and something to eat.

The festivities start as soon
as it's dark.

Santa.

h* h*.

She's so pretty, grandma.

Good evening, everyone,
and welcome

to the Wilsonville Wonderland
Celebration!

This year marks our
50th anniversary.

Can you believe that?

50 years, people.

Ok, without further ado

it's time to light
our Christmas tree,

so who would like to come
and do the honours?

Me!

Young man back there,
come on up.

Ethan, right?

Yeah.

Come on up, Ethan.

Gretchen, why don't you
come up as well?

Here's the switch, buddy.

Now Ethan, we are going
to count you down

and you flip the switch, ok?

Are you ready, everyone?

Five,
four, three, two, one!

Merry Christmas!

Kyle!

Dad!

Hey, son.

You made it for Christmas!

I missed you.

I missed you, too.

I didn't hurt you,
did I?

You in my arms would
never hurt.

Now, Kyle wasn't set to come
home for Christmas this year,

but uh... sometimes
the smallest voice

can make the biggest sound

and I have a friend
who made some noise

and helped bring Kyle home.

So please join me in welcoming
this brave man to Wilsonville.

Alright, everyone.

If you all could please
light your Christmas candles.

Dad, lean on me, ok?

You got it, son.

Welcome home, soldier.

Thank you, sir.

It's so good to have you back.

Kyle, I want you
to meet my sister.

Did you say "sister"?

I'll fill you in.

All you need to know is
I have a sister.

It's so nice to meet you.

You too.

You're a sister
who deserves a hug.

How is it even possible
you're here right now?

Your guess is as good as mine.

Someone called and
convinced the doctor

that I should recuperate
at home.

Family is my best medicine.

It was Santa.

He got my letter.

I had faith
and he delivered.

Thank you.

For Kyle.

I don't know what you mean.

Magical things happen
at Christmas.

And I have one
more present for you.

Thank you.

Merry Christmas.

Merry Christmas, sister.

Come.