Our Italian Christmas Memories (2022)

[bunniefuu]

Hey, R.J.!

You keep doing that and Santa'll

turn his sleigh right around.

Why do you smell

like my cologne?

It's frankincense.

Goof ball.

That's Mary and

that's baby Jesus.

But where's Jesus's dad?

He's taking the picture,

of course.

Nonno!

It's Christmas Eve, why aren't

you kids looking for the pickle?

Come on!

Donata!

Can you see anything?

Hey.

The wise men are

on the porch now.

They probably

smelled your sugo.

Oh.

Your sauce is that good,

but it's probably

just the neighborhood kids

playing around.

Ok, what can I help with?

You can start the pasta.

Hm.

Oh!

Try it.

So?

Tastes like home.

The moment I first sampled

your sugo,

I knew you were the one.

And the moment I first heard

you say "yes, dear"

I knew you were the one.

Yes, dear!

Ok, the paste.

You know, I wish

just one of the them

would show some interest

in cooking.

Even if they did, you'd still

do everything yourself.

Oh, no, I wouldn't.

Yes, you would.

More salt.

Hey, more dancing.

Ok, back to the sauce.

Oh, you need a little

help here?

Yes.

Oh, let me help you.

Come on.

Ah!

Ah!

My mother aways said, family's

where you act the worst

but are loved the best.

She was only joking, somewhat.

But, remember, family is not

just the most important thing,

it's everything!

So Buon Natale!

Buon Natale!

And I found the pickle!

Good job.

A year of luck to you.

Oh, what a feast.

Look at this.

Who wants to start

with the pasta?

Hello?

You're still asleep?

I overslept.

I just got in from

LA last night.

I'm jet-lagged.

Ok, but Mom's called me like

a million times

asking if you're on

your way yet.

She wants us all to have dinner

before she leaves.

I know, and I'll be there.

I just have to figure out what

box my winter clothes are in.

Anna, it's time to unpack.

You've lived there

for six months.

Yeah, and I've been away

for five of them.

So, no uh, Christmas decorating

for your apartment?

I meant to, but the decorations

are in a box

with my winter clothes,

which I think I just found.

Oh, no, just a box of miniature

hotel toiletries.

Ok, just get in the car.

I will lend you clothes.

Said like a true big sister.

But wait, I'm the big sister.

Oh, you are.

Then act like it.

Ok, Papa, a list of

your prescriptions

and what to take when

and a list of all your

appointments with times, addresses.

I have copies for Anna too.

Madeline, relax.

I'll be ok while you're gone.

Maybe I shouldn't go.

The kids are all here.

Which is exactly why

you can go.

This trip is a Christmas gift

from your kids,

not a punishment.

Maui in December.

Sun, surf, open bar,

tiki drinks.

You can have that Tropical

Itch you like.

Oh, you're terrible.

Hello!

Oh, here they are!

Hi!

Hey, Mom.

Hello.

How's my great grandchild?

It's good to see you.

Oh, he's comfortable,

don't worry about him.

Me, on the other hand.

Well, take a seat.

Where's Anna?

Oh, uh...

Oh!

There she is!

Mom.

Sweetie.

The prodigal daughter returns.

Look at you!

You're glowing.

No, I'm sweating,

but thank you.

Oh, my Anna.

Nonno.

I missed you so much.

How long's it been?

Like a year, what?

No, Papa, Anna was just here

in October for your birthday.

Oh. Yeah.

Of course.

I saw the wise men

are on the move again.

Oh, these neighborhood kids.

All these years later,

we're sticking to the

neighborhood kid theory?

Well what can you say?

The kids are committed.

Are you excited to be

roommates for a week?

Oh, overjoyed.

Now, will you fill me in on

all your work adventures?

Did you just get in from Cairo?

Um, no, Cairo was

two years ago, Nonno.

I've been at UCLA lately.

Yeah.

Guess who's here?

Well the house just

got substantially louder,

so it must be R.J.

R.J!

I come bearing gifts.

Frankincense and myrrh?

Better. Orange chicken

and fried rice.

The modern magi.

Well, I got dinner, so

who's setting the table?

Oh, I have to move

the wise men back.

Well then, I'm off the clock.

I have to grab more Christmas decorations.

What she said.

It would be my pleasure.

What's with the labels?

So he knows where

everything is.

He's starting to forget more.

The labels minimize confusion.

It's a lot of work for you.

It's the definition of family.

Hey, forget about setting

the table.

How bout we eat

in the living room

so I can at least finish

decorating the tree with

everyone before I go.

Sure.

La Befana.

Nonna's Christmas Witch.

She loved this ornament.

This is making me

not want to go.

It's just a week.

You've been wanting to take

this trip forever.

And it's high season

for whale watching.

Plus, you'll be back

for Christmas Eve.

Speaking of, where are we

getting Christmas Eve dinner

from this year?

Uh, we could do Forbeeces.

Nah, their pasta's overcooked.

Sauce is too sweet.

Pasta.

Wait, isn't there a big Italian

fish dinner on Christmas Eve?

I'm allergic to seafood.

Feast of the seven fishes.

Used to scare poor Donata

half to death

when Madeline was a kid.

And that's how sugo became our

own special family tradition.

Oh, what I wouldn't give

for one more spoonful

of Donata's sugo.

Mm. Oh.

It always, it always

tasted like, uh...

Like, um...

Like home.

Si si, like home.

You know, I just realized

we haven't had

a home-cooked Christmas Eve

dinner since Nonna passed.

That's ten years of take out.

That's a little sad.

Maybe this year we can cook?

Ok, I could whip something up.

- No!

- No, no.

No, you'll be exhausted.

R.J can make something.

Thank you for volunteering me.

But yes, I can cook.

And we can help you.

I love this idea.

And look what I just found.

Remember no looking for it

before Christmas Eve.

You know where Papa's

prescriptions and schedules are

and there's a backup

on the fridge.

Oh, and uh, Papa's medications

are in the advent calendar

for each day.

Festive meets type A.

I like it.

Oh, it's like no one

in this family

appreciates me

over-thinking for them.

You better go, you car's here.

I don't know.

Maybe I shouldn't go.

No, Mom, you're going.

You take care of Nonno.

You take care of everyone.

Just go, have fun.

All your worries will still be

here when you return.

Well thanks for that.

Ah.

Thank you, honey.

I love you.

I love you too.

Ok.

- Bye.

- Bye.

Call me when you get there.

Yeah, I will.

Who wants to play

a game of gin?

Sorry, my Anna, I'm tired.

Night, Nonno.

Goodnight, Nonno.

I am pregnant.

I don't want to.

Well I'm down.

Should I make some eggnog?

Like you had to ask.

So, I heard you have

a girlfriend.

I mean, kind of, I guess.

When am I gonna meet her?

She's coming to decorate

the farm with us.

Perfect.

So, before that,

tell me everything.

Well, her name's Monica.

Her dad's the chef

and owner where I work.

I was delivering produce

for Ella and I walked in

and saw Monica and yeah,

that was it for me.

And then we were chatting

and she said her dad

was looking for help and so

I asked for an application.

You would have jumped

at any job

that aloud you to see

more of her.

Definitely.

Of course, I didn't know at

the time that she was just

home for the year while

she studies for her LSATs.

She sounds amazing.

She is.

So I have no idea what

she's doing with me.

I mean, she thinks I'm a chef

and not a college drop out

or a failed business owner

or any of my other quirks.

R.J, you're the best.

So what about you?

Where're you teaching next?

I'm waiting on a call

from Tafts

And then I don't know.

The adjunct professor life is a

lot of not knowing what's next.

Isn't it hard, always being

a stranger?

Never feeling home.

Or maybe that's easier for you.

Gin.

You got lucky.

Double or nothing?

You're on.

Well. What do we have here?

Well, Chef schooled

me the other day,

so I was just practicing.

Whipped up the dish

poulet Francais

with parmesan risotto

and rainbow carrots.

Thought maybe you'd taste test.

I'm not really hungry.

Said by me never.

Come on.

Thank you.

Mmmhm.

That is incredible.

Thank you.

But the risotto is a little...

Distracting my wait

staff again?

Uh yeah, but Dad,

it's worth it.

You've gotta come try this.

No. It's really not ready.

Hm.

Mm. Mm.

Chicken is strong.

The risotto is overdone.

Yeah, I thought so.

He's tough, but the dish

is good.

You are good.

You really don't have

to be here with me.

Sorry, Mom said I did.

Marching orders.

Yeah, but I feel like a kid.

Well, then I'll get you

a lollipop at the end.

If you're good.

Make it a red one, please.

Vincent, good to see you again.

Hey, Doc.

And whom do we have

with you today?

Uh, this is my granddaughter, Anna.

Oh, the sociologist.

You're grandfather brags

about you all the time.

Said you were teaching

in Cairo?

I was teaching in Cairo,

two years ago.

Lucky you.

I loved it there.

I visited years ago to see

the pyramids at first light

before the crowds got in.

Ah, the pyramids.

There's no words.

It's just this feeling.

Like you're somehow living

in the past and the present

at the same time.

Exactly.

Who's getting examined here?

You are. Right, thank you

for reminding me.

Alrighty.

Alright, senior Colluccia.

I'm gonna ask you a few

of the questions

I asked last time you visited.

Do you remember when that was?

Hard to remember.

Seems like I'm always here.

Well, do you know

what year it is?

Well, I'm partying

like it's 1999.

But in fact it is 2022.

Very good.

And when's your birthday?

October 18th, 1944.

Day after, which God, having

witnesses perfection, rested.

How many nickels

are in 60 cents.

Oh. Uh...

That's ok.

It's pretty early in

the morning for math.

And last time you were here,

I asked you to remember

a sentence and repeat it back

to me the next time you came in.

Oh.

Can you remember what it was?

That's alright.

Don't worry about it.

Alright, do you mind if I take

your blood pressure quickly?

Ah, yeah.

Ellen, can you please schedule

Mr. Colluccia's

next appointment?

Of course.

Right this way, Mr. Colluccia.

I'll be right there.

You looked surprised in there.

I was.

I didn't realize

it was this bad.

My mom said it's early

stage Alzheimers.

It was, but based on

what I've been seeing

for the past two months,

I'm sorry to say he's moving

into middle stage.

So what can we do?

What you're already doing.

Make sure he takes his meds,

try to keep his mind engaged.

But, is there a way

to slow it down?

No. I'm sorry.

There's an inevitability

to his condition.

Look, I'm not gonna mince words,

this is hard for everyone, but

it's especially hard for him.

It's like what you said

about the pyramids.

That's how he feels,

like he's living in the past and

the present at the same time.

Is there a timeline?

No.

Everyone's different.

But, like I told your mother,

your family should start

discussing care plans

for Vincent.

What do you mean?

Well, he's gonna need

full-time care either at home

or at a facility that

specializes in the care

for people with Alzheimers.

I'm sorry, I know it's a lot.

If you or anyone in your family

needs someone to talk to,

I'm here.

I appreciate that.

Thank you.

- Hey.

- Hey.

Thank you.

Don't worry, I'm fine.

I mean, Dr. Graham wants me

to remember a sentence

he told me a month ago.

Who can do that?

I can't even remember what I

had for breakfast this morning.

You had three biscotti,

eaten standing over the sink.

See? I still got it.

Come on, I want to show

you something.

It's beautiful, Nonno.

The most beautiful

parking lot ever.

This isn't just any

parking lot,

this is where Donata and

I had our first apartment.

Really?

Yeah, used to be a big

brick building here.

Apartment wasn't much,

walls were so thin

you could hear

the neighbors fart.

Nonno!

I mean cough, sorry.

Oh, but we were so happy.

I can still remember

Donata here.

Dancing with me,

pregnant with your mother.

Always laughing,

always fixing something.

Always cooking.

Her sugo.

Oh, every Sunday

and Christmas Eve.

See Anna, I'm not losing it.

I can still remember so much.

I'm ok. See?

Yeah, I see.

I see.

Uh, they got a mind

of their own.

Do they?

I'm going for my walk.

Gotta get my steps in.

It's Dr. Greg.

It's Anna Colluccia calling.

Hi, Anna.

I guess I do have a few

more questions.

Yeah, of course.

I'm glad you reached out.

So, what can I help you with?

Um, I was thinking about

what you said about engaging

my grandfather's mind.

What exactly did you mean

by that?

Well, I mean, keep him involved

in the things he loves.

What brings him joy.

Well, not to be too clichd

Italian, but, food.

Well I'm not Italian

and I feel the same.

Um, but food, that's good.

Smell is the closest sense

linked to memory.

Taste not too far behind,

so maybe he could have

a cooking project?

Some recipe he loves.

That's a great idea.

Thank you, this was so helpful.

Of course.

And please, feel free

to call me whenever.

Really.

Thank you, Dr. Greg.

How about just Greg?

Ok, just Greg.

Take care.

Bye.

What are you doing?

Oh, just plumbing the annals

of Colluccia history.

Working through Nonna's stuff.

Hoping there was a recipe

notebook or something in here.

Well, I can help.

What have you found so far?

I've got boxes labeled Donata

one, two and three of four,

but I can't find the fourth.

Oh, wow.

Look what I found?

Oh. All the hideous jewelry

we made her as children.

She was always so proud of them.

She was either a perfect saint

or a great liar.

Or both.

I'm gonna call Mom.

Hi, honey.

How's it going?

Good, I'm just here with R.J.

Hi, Mom!

Hi, honey!

How's your trip?

Oh, just lounging by the pool.

Drinking a pineapple mango

smoothie, so it's amazing.

That sounds nice.

Quick question for you,

do you happen to know

Nonna's sugo recipe?

Sadly I don't.

Did she write it down anywhere,

do you know?

I'm not sure.

I know there were a few

recipes she did write down,

but most recipes were

just memorized.

I've never been a good cook.

She warned me, "when I'm gone,

the ziti will be gone with me."

Why, what's up?

I was just considering a

cooking project for Nonno,

but I'll figure it out.

Anna, I gotta run.

I have a massage soon.

Wow, Mama.

Yeah, I'm never coming home.

Have fun. Bye.

Hey.

How was your walk?

Got my 10,000 steps in.

What are you two up to?

Going through Nonna's stuff.

But we should probably

get to the farm.

Monica's already on her way.

Oh, Monica?

Please, get it out of your

system before you see her.

I'll try. But you know,

I am getting forgetful.

We did this to ourselves.

Oh my gosh.

Look who's already here!

There she is.

- Hi.

- Hi.

Hi, Mr. Colluccia.

Oh, Vincent, please.

And Monica, this is Anna.

So nice to meet you.

Ella and Natalie were telling

me all about

your big Christmas party

that you have here.

Oh, yep, every year since

we bought the place in 1954.

Wow.

Uh, 74', Nonno.

Hm?

But, uh, yeah.

Every year we throw a big

party for the town

and invite everyone.

Good food, good drinks,

good company.

- What more could you ask for?

- Mmhm.

And it's been 48 years of it.

And here's to 48 more, right?

Ah!

Um, we'll just go grab

the snacks.

Oh, it's not a Colluccia

gathering without food.

Alright.

Honey, you have to tell them.

I know, I just, I think

I should wait

until after the holidays.

At first it was Labor Day,

and then it was Thanksgiving,

and now it's Christmas.

You know pushing this off

isn't gonna make it any easier.

I know.

And your mom already

gave you her blessing.

I know, it's just the farm

means so much to my family

and selling it is gonna be

a blow.

Well, I'm not pushing you.

It's your choice.

It's whatever you wanna do.

I just wanna make sure

you aren't living your life

trying to please your family.

Nat, you're a really

great therapist,

but I just need you

to be my wife.

My wife was sad she couldn't

get the tomatoes

they have in Italy so I just

said, then we'll grow 'em!

And that's why we bought

this farm.

That's amazing.

So, I guess R.J gets

that from you.

When he decides to do something,

he just does it.

Like, he was washing dishes

at my dad's restaurant

and decided to teach himself

how to cook.

Soon enough, he'll be

Chef de Cuisine.

Or at least a sous chef.

He made this pan seared chicken

with a parmesan risotto.

It was nothing.

It was not nothing.

It was delicious.

You guys should come by

the restaurant.

See him in action.

We'd love that.

Sounds good.

I'm gonna check on the lights.

Uh, Monica, can I show

you something?

Yeah.

Ella, the place looks incredible.

It's so special, you carrying

this tradition on.

Forty-eight years.

Yeah, yeah, 48 years.

So, I wanted to pitch

you guys something.

Dr. Greg said that we should

engage Nonno's mind

and I was thinking, you know,

how much he misses Nonna

and how much he misses her sugo.

So, maybe he could make it

for our Christmas Eve dinner.

It would be a great

little project for him.

You know, keep his mind active?

Anna, I know that you like

to solve problems,

but pasta sauce isn't gonna

cure Nonno.

I know that,

but he's progressing faster

than I thought.

Faster than Mom let on and

I realized that this might be

the last Christmas

that he remembers,

so we should make it a Christmas

to remember.

The lights are ready!

Alright, Nonno!

Do the honors.

Here we go.

Count it down.

Three, two, one!

Bella! Molto bella!

Nonno?

Buongiorno!

Oh, while you slept late

I got my morning walk in.

Oh, I noticed you

brought these in.

Look at this.

Our plane tickets back

to Italy for our honeymoon.

She kept everything.

What are you doing with these?

I was hoping to find some

of Nonna's recipes.

Hm.

Specifically her sugo recipe.

Mmhm.

I was thinking that you could

make it on Christmas Eve.

Me? Cook Donata's sugo?

Come on, it'll be fun.

I can be your sous chef.

Do you have the recipe?

Not yet, but we'll find it.

So, what's on the schedule

for today?

Today I play cards at

the senior centre.

You should see me wipe

the floor with the boys.

I might be losing my mind but

I'm still winning at cards.

Ok, well, I'll be back

in an hour.

Have fun.

- Hey.

- Hey.

I almost didn't recognize you

without the white coat

and the halo.

I think my patients think

I live at the office.

I definitely did think that, yeah.

So, did I ruin the mystique?

No, the mystique

is still alive.

I just picked something up

from the gift shop.

What are you up to?

I was gonna go shopping

while my Grandpa finishes

his card game.

Well, I was just about

to go grab an eggnog,

you want to join?

Yeah.

- Here you are.

- Thank you.

You're welcome.

So, you grew up here, right?

Yeah. I went to high school

just down the street.

And Vincent says you've

taught at universities

all over the world.

Yeah, I'm a sociology adjunct,

so I go where I'm needed.

Sometimes abroad.

Sounds like you like change.

Yeah, I guess I do.

I don't know, maybe

growing up here

gave me the stability

to be ok with change.

Or maybe I'm just running away

from my family.

Well, you wouldn't be

the first.

I am slightly guilty of that.

Yeah?

Where did you grow up?

Chicago and then I went

to college in Cambridge.

But then after med school I got

a residency in a small town

and I liked that life

and I found my way here.

And what do you think?

I love it.

It was pitched to me as a great

place to raise a family.

Which I'm sure it is,

but it's just me right now.

Great. I'm sure Nonno is done

with his game by now.

This was fun.

Yeah, it was.

Thank you.

Maybe you've heard, my family

has a farm outside of town?

We have a party every year.

Hot cider, cannoli.

It's Thursday if you want

to come.

You're probably heading out of

town for the holidays by then.

Oh, no, no, I'm actually

covering for the other doctors,

so, I'm here.

Both my parents remarried,

so it's easier for me to just

sit out the holiday season.

So I'd love to come.

Great.

Hello Rocco, hey guys.

Hi!

Donata!

It's Anna.

What did I say?

Don't worry about it.

Anna, it is so good

to have you home!

And just in time.

Gin.

And the butcher strikes again.

Wait, you were Nonna's butcher, right?

Yeah.

Donata put my babies

through college

with all the meat

she bought from me.

Especially for her sugo,

every Sunday.

Straight from church to me.

Do you happen to remember

the order?

Of course I do.

One pound beef ribs,

cut two inches.

One second.

Ok.

Two pounds of ground beef.

One pound ground pork.

Every Sunday the same thing.

Your Nonna was a creature

of habit.

A creature of habit.

Maybe if we can't find

the recipe

we can figure

it out instead.

See you boys next week.

Rocco's on a roll.

Bye, guys.

- I think we picked a good one.

- Yeah, it looks good.

Hey, is that what

I think it is?

A ceppo!

We haven't done a ceppo since...

Since Nonna passed, yeah.

But we thought this was

the year to bring it back.

Absolutely.

So this is like the Italian

version of a Yule log?

Or more like the Italian elf

on the shelf.

No, Natalie, this is a special

age-old tradition

the ceppo is the tree of light.

It symbolizes our many gifts in

life and uh, Donata loved it so.

There is, uh, something

I wanted to tell you guys.

I've decided to sell the farm.

And, there's a buyer

that's already interested.

You know the Hooper family?

Mimi and Travis.

They always said if we wanted

to sell, they would buy it.

They meant it.

Well, Ella, you know you have

my blessing.

Thank you, Nonno.

Hm.

Now look, we really love

this place,

but with the baby coming, we

just, we need something smaller.

But shouldn't this be

a family decision?

I mean, this is a family property.

It belongs to all of us.

Well, actually it belongs

to Nonno.

Even if it did belong

to all of us,

why am I the only one

taking care of it

for the last five years?

Ella...

No, I'm awake at 4:00AM

every day to devote my life

to this place while you've been

who knows where,

doing what you want to do.

Ok, that's fair.

But I still don't think

that we should sell.

Well, if you don't want us

to sell it,

maybe you should take it over.

I can't believe you

knew already.

Why didn't you tell me?

Ella's been on the fence.

She asked me to keep it a

secret while she decided.

Since when has anyone in this

family been able

to actually keep a secret?

Honey, I know it's a big change

and you're upset,

but understand, this was

a hard decision for Ella.

But it's not just her decision.

It should be all of ours.

Well, what was

Nonno's reaction?

He was supportive.

Nonno just wants the best

for each of you.

We'll get through this, together.

Very Mom, putting medicine

in the advent calendar.

Two espressos, coming up.

There you go.

Thank you.

For you.

Thank you.

Nonno?

Hm?

I want to talk to you about

Ella selling the farm.

Oh.

You have no idea the work

that goes into that land.

The farm is like me, it requires

constant upkeep, constant worry.

But still, it's bound

to fall apart.

Nonno.

No, just kidding, kind of.

But, Ella and your mom,

they're tired.

They need a break.

So Ella has my blessing.

And when I become too much to

take care of for your mother,

she'll have my blessing too.

You know, I've been thinking

about the sugo.

It's a good idea.

- Really?

- Yeah!

Ok, great.

I see they're on

the move again.

Still looking for

the fourth box?

Yeah. No luck.

But we did find all

of Donata's cookbooks.

Maybe there's something there.

Let's go.

These have ten sugo

recipes each.

How are we supposed to know

which one it is?

Well, sugo is regional

and Nonna probably

learned it from her mom.

Where was Nonna's mom from?

Well, that's hard to say.

Her family was Italian,

but living in France.

During World w*r I

became refugees in Italy

and then settled in Sardinia.

So maybe we're looking for

a Sardinian inspired sugo.

Although that feels like

a wild goose chase.

Well, we are getting somewhere.

We know the exact amount

and cuts of meat she used.

We know the tomatoes.

Oh, San Marzano

from our greenhouse.

But what about the rest

of the ingredients?

Where did she shop?

Rightmans Grocery on

the outskirts of town.

Is that grocery store

still there?

Last I heard, the original

owner, William,

had passed away but his son

Daniel took over.

Then let's go.

Unfortunately, I'm gonna have

to sit this expedition out.

I can't be late for work.

Chef.

R.J. Sweetie.

I wanted to review the specials

for the rest of the week.

We are making a change

to Friday.

Poulet Francais with parmesan

risotto and rainbow carrots.

Mhmm.

This is my dish.

And you're gonna be responsible

for it from prep to the table.

Got it?

Yes, Chef.

And we have a full house

on Friday.

So absolutely no pressure.

Got it.

And thank you, Chef.

You're welcome.

I'm so proud of you!

I don't know.

Do you think he's just doing

this because we're dating?

Oh, absolutely not.

If anything, it is the opposite.

Then why is he doing this?

Because he believes in you.

So do I.

I'm recalling vague memories

of Nonna bringing us here.

She always said they had

the best produce.

Actually, she first said that

about Ortello's Market

then they raised the price

of olive oil

and she never went back.

Nonna had opinions.

Oh, her opinions had opinions.

Oh, excuse me?

Are you finding

everything alright?

Mr. Colluccia!

Daniel!

I almost didn't recognize you.

How's your mother doing?

Oh, healthy, happy,

retired in Florida.

Wow. It's great to have you

back in.

Well, actually my granddaughter

is on a bit of a mission.

I'm wondering if my grandma

had any standing orders

with you back when

she shopped here.

Wow, that would be some time.

Unfortunately, we purged

all our inactive orders

when we went digital.

Can I ask why?

We're trying to recreate

her sugo

by figuring out the ingredients.

Oh, well I won't be much

help there.

Actually, there is one thing

I remember.

There was an ingredient my dad

used to stock only for her

and when they discontinued it,

he looked everywhere

for a replacement.

Uh... Cultured Alice?

Something like that.

I know it came in an ornate

glass bottle.

It was an amber liquid.

I'm sorry I couldn't be

more helpful.

No, that was very helpful,

thank you.

Cultured Alice?

Culture of Alice?

Alice's culture?

No, no, no.

Uh, colatura de...

Wait. Colatura di alici!

Anchovy oil.

Of course, she put anchovy oil

in the sugo.

She put anchovy oil

in the sugo?

Gross.

No, it was delicious!

It gave it an extra layer.

It was meaty, rich, complex.

Ok, see?

We're getting somewhere.

We're like the Sherlock Holmes

and Watson of pasta sauce.

Where are you going?

To the car.

Oh, but the car's down there.

No, I parked around the corner.

No, I specifically remember

parking in front of

the dry cleaners.

Nonno, the dry cleaner

isn't there anymore.

Of course it is.

I remember parking right

in front of it.

I know cause I curbed my wheel.

Nonno, I drove.

No, I drove.

And I know where I parked.

I'm not stupid.

Nonno.

Where is it?

Where's the car?

I...

I... I'm sorry. I...

It's ok.

I know, I...

It's ok.

I forget where I parked

all the time.

Yeah. I, uh... Well...

ay ]

No walk this morning?

Already done!

I woke up early.

Now, I'm working

on operation sugo.

I called the butcher

for the meat

and I'm ordering

the colatura di alici.

It'll be here Friday.

Great!

I'm gonna figure this out.

I have no doubt.

Don't forget, we have the

Christmas party this afternoon.

I won't forget.

That never stops being funny.

I'm gonna go to the garage

to see if I can find

Nonna's fourth box.

Great.

Hm.

Look what I just found.

Oh, my goodness.

It still smells like her.

And a little bit like garage,

Ah.

Who's this woman?

She's in a lot of pictures

with Nonna.

Yeah, that's uh,

that's Diana Rose.

She was Donata's best friend.

Weird, I don't remember her.

Well you were just

a little girl.

Those two were inseparable.

Walks every Monday,

lunch every Wednesday.

But then, uh, Diana

broke her heart.

She did this thing every time

they ate out.

Every lunch, right before

the check would come,

Diana would excuse herself

from the table.

Then the check would come,

it would sit there,

then the waiter would come by

once, twice, three times.

Donata was getting

so embarrassed

that she would finally just pay.

Oh, it annoyed Donata so much

so I encouraged her to bring it

up and uh, finally, she did.

Then what happened?

Ah.

Diana never talked to her again.

Really?

Over a lunch bill?

Well, more over pride.

And shame.

No one wants to be told what

they should or shouldn't do.

Those are the things

that get in the way.

So don't let them.

You mean with Ella?

Yeah.

Oh, my gosh.

What a rager.

Yeah, yeah, thanks.

It's a good one.

Why does this feel awkward,

Ell?

I love you.

Whatever decision you make,

I'll respect it.

I'm glad to hear that.

So, what else has

been going on?

How do you feel about becoming

a mom so soon?

Oh, wow.

You're coming in hard

with the big questions.

Um, I'm excited.

I'm nervous.

Everything just feels out of

control but in the best way.

Sometimes I'm just,

I am so scared.

Like a few weeks ago I had to

rush Natalie to the hospital.

We were worried that she might

have preeclampsia,

which, thankfully, she didn't.

I'm so sorry.

I didn't know.

Why didn't you call me?

I did call you.

You didn't answer, and you

didn't call me back,

but, you never call me back.

I do get the odd text

or two though.

I'm sorry.

We should go say hello

to Monica.

Hey, here you go!

Curtesy of my dad.

He wishes he could be here

but he had to stay at

the restaurant.

It looks delicious!

Thank you.

So, did R.J tell you

the big news?

My dad is putting one of

the dishes that R.J created

on the Friday special menu.

- Oh!

- What? R.J!

Get it, boy.

Well done, son.

It's really not a big deal.

Oh no, but it kind of is.

It's gonna be R.J's big night

to shine.

Well then we have to be there.

Oh, yeah.

Really, you don't.

I think we're actually

fully booked.

I can probably squeeze you in. Possibly.

- Awesome

- Good stuff.

So, your family does

this every year?

Just for the last 48.

Oh, just.

Barely a record.

It's really great.

It seems like a lot of work.

Yeah, I've barely contributed

the last couple years

but it is a lot of work.

And a lot of family time,

a lot of drama.

Ah, the messy beauty of family.

It's something, isn't it?

I mean, my family's

my everything

yet I've always tried to live

far away from them.

Why do you think that it?

I don't know.

Sometimes I feel like I can't

breathe around them.

You know?

But more often I feel like

I can't breathe without them.

I get that.

I was raised by two parents,

two step parents,

a million aunties,

a million uncles.

So, I had community

up the wazoo.

But, what I wanted was privacy.

But, now that I live alone,

getting taken care of doesn't

sound so bad.

And you?

I don't know.

My dad left when

I was really young

and I helped raise my siblings.

Sometimes I think

that that's enough for me.

Or maybe I'm just an alone

person, you know?

Someone who's better off alone.

There's nothing wrong

with being alone.

Oh, these are the cannoli,

the Christmas cannoli.

They are the best dessert

on the planet.

Sorry, no, that would be

my mother's Ukrainian

snowball cookies.

I'm actually making them

for the bake sale

at the children's

parade tomorrow.

Oh! Nonno and I were

gonna go to that.

We'll come by your booth,

sample these magical

cookies of yours.

Or, if you like, you could

help me bake them.

I've got the day off tomorrow.

But you, oh, you're probably

working. Yeah.

No, I'm off.

Winter hiatus.

Perks of being a professor.

So, you want to bake?

Fair warning though,

my kitchen is kind of sad

in a bachelor way.

Well you should just come

to Nonno's.

We have all the culinary toys.

That sounds great.

Can I have everyone's

attention?

First of all, Merry Christmas!

Merry Christmas!

Thank you all for being here.

As many of you know,

our family has been throwing

this party for 48 years.

Which is why it

is so hard to, uh, to say

that this is the last year the

Colluccia's will be hosting.

But, not to worry, we will make

sure that the new owners

have the same love

and appreciation

that our grandparents did

for this community

when they started this farm

all those years ago.

So, from my family to yours.

Buon Natale!

Buon Natale!

Good morning.

What's on the schedule

for today?

Cards again with Rocco

and the g*ng.

Want to join?

We could be a team.

Card sharking your friends

with you sounds very fun

but I am actually helping Dr.

Greg with his bake sale today.

Oh, his bake sale, huh?

You can drop the quotation

marks, thank you very much.

Anna, I might be old

and slightly deaf

and increasingly senile

but I know one when I see one.

You and the good doctor

are having a little thing.

We're not having a thing.

Oh, no, it's good.

I like him.

I support it.

And he did eat four cannoli

last night.

You counted how many

cannoli he ate?

Also, is love of cannoli

a virtue?

No. No, not a virtue,

more a sign of character.

I mean, you can't trust someone

that doesn't eat.

True, true.

Wow. You're already here.

Gotta practice my dish,

especially now that

my family's coming.

It's tricky to pan sear

the right texture...

Babe, don't stress.

You are a great chef

and they're your family.

I know, I just...

I want to make them proud.

I want to make your dad proud.

These seem like pretty

standard snowball cookies.

Except with a Ukrainian flair.

It's the pecans.

Oh.

So, I've been meaning

to ask you.

What made you pick neurology?

Well, I've always been

fascinated by people,

by behavior, by connection.

And neurology is a lot

of connection

in the physiological sense,

of course.

But, also the emotional,

my patients connection

to their loved ones.

Their past.

Their futures.

That's a really interesting way

of looking at it.

And why'd you pick sociology?

Actually for somewhat

similar reasons.

I've always been fascinated

by humans, behaviors,

interaction, connections.

You know, what makes

people tick?

But from a bird's eye view.

Yeah, without all the messy

trappings of human emotion.

Yeah.

I'm excited to try

these cookies.

You gonna give me some

for helping?

Oh, if you want these cookies,

you're gonna have to work

for them.

- How are you doing?

- One box, right?

Nice.

Ladies and gentleman!

Would you like to try the most

delicious cookie in the world?

They're amazing.

A cookie a day keeps

the doctor away.

Diana?

Diana!

Diana.

Vinnie Colluccia.

Diana Rose, as I live

and breath.

It's so strange, but my

granddaughter, Anna, and I

were just talking about you

the other day.

Well, I'll assume not good

things, but I'll be hopeful.

No, very good things.

I just found a photo album

of you and my Nonna.

She was my best friend.

An absolute riot and hands

down the best cook I ever met.

Oh.

Her sugo.

Oh, oh.

One taste, never try

pasta sauce again.

She tried to teach me.

Wait, my Nonna taught you

her sugo recipe?

No, she tried.

It was complicated,

but I do remember her secret

was her soffritto.

Holy trinity of carrot

and onion and celery.

You leave it to cook

until it caramelizes.

You didn't, by any chance,

write the recipe down, did you?

No. I wish I did.

Big regret.

I have other regrets too.

I wish that I had seen her

before she passed

and I wish that I had told her

how much I loved her,

but I was embarrassed.

She never stopped loving you.

I'll grab us a couple

hot chocolates

and I'll see you back

at the booth.

Ok.

Hey, what was that?

My grandpa just ran

into an old friend.

Oh, nice.

Well, this has been

going really well.

We've raised more than

$1,000 so, thank you.

This has been a lot of fun.

Yeah.

It was a really great day.

Hey, here.

Ah, thank you.

Dr. Greg, I was just thinking,

if you don't have plans

for Christmas Eve, maybe

you'd like to join us?

We're having sugo, hopefully.

You should come.

We would love it.

- Yeah?

- Yeah.

Ok. Sure.

That sounds great.

Yeah.

He's a good man.

And a doctor.

Nonno, stop.

I won't be here forever

and I'd like to know

that you're loved.

I am loved.

No, you know what I mean.

Life is short.

Love is a gift.

Come on.

What are you guys doing?

Mom's Christmas gift

came early.

Go put it on.

If we have to wear it, Anna,

you have to wear it.

Well where's Nonno's?

Oh, luckily your mother knows

better than to give me one.

Plus, I helped her pick

them out.

You kids have fun.

Good night.

Night.

This is ridiculous.

But it brings mom so much joy!

Mom's not even here.

But it brings us so much joy.

Don't pretend it doesn't.

Put it on!

Put it on! Put it on!

You ok, Nonno?

Don't worry, I dropped something.

So, how's he been doing?

I think he's really enjoying

our hunt

for the great sugo recipe.

Yeah. He seems like he is.

Do you think that's helpful?

What do you mean?

I mean, do you think

it's a good idea for him

to be spending so much time

focusing on the past?

It might be more helpful

for him

to be doing something practical.

Like what?

Like making all the decisions

he needs to make

before he can't anymore.

Well, I think it's good for him

to have fun and have hope.

For all of us to have hope.

Right, but its also good for us

to be realistic.

Um, maybe we should

call it a night.

It's getting kind of late and

I have my big night tomorrow.

Yeah, we're excited

to be there

Please make extra.

I'm eating for two.

You ok here?

- Yeah, I'll clean up.

- Ok.

- Night.

- Night.

Ok, thank you, R.J, two more

of your specials.

Yes, Chef!

Let's plate this, R.J,

let's plate this. Let's go!

Yes, Chef!

How we doing, R.J?

We're almost there.

Thank you. Beautiful.

Thank you.

Behind! Alright.

Let's move these specials!

They look great.

Thank you, everybody.

Good work.

We want two Bolognese.

Yes, Chef!

Oh!

Best seats in the house.

How is R.J doing?

Crushing it.

We are going to sell out

of the special.

I'm just so proud of him.

Us too.

I'll be back with some water.

But, uh, what about Donata?

What, Nonno?

Well, there's no chair for

Donata, where's she gonna sit?

Nonno.

Nonna's not here.

Oh yeah.

Yeah, of course.

R.J, your family's here.

Fire up four more specials.

Heard, thanks.

Get out of your head, R.J.

Nonno, I think that we need

to have a conversation.

Ella, I don't think tonight's

the time

to have that conversation.

Well when is the right time,

Anna?

After you leave?

Mom should be here if we're

gonna talk about this.

Maybe we could just try to enjoy

being together tonight.

Or we can stop sweeping this

under the rug

and have a real conversation

that allows us to make plans

for the future.

Move on, R.J.

Start again.

Ow!

Come here.

Keep going.

No, I can't do this.

No, you've got it, R.J.

No, I'm just messing it up.

I can't do it.

Wait, what happened?

I choked.

It's ok.

It happens to everyone.

Not like me.

Why are you so angry with me?

I'm not angry with you.

You know what, it's ironic

that you study people

and yet you understand them

so little.

Or, actually, it makes

a lot of sense.

Stop fighting!

Bravo, Chef! Bravo!

- It looks delicious.

- Yeah, great job.

Thanks, but I, uh, I didn't

cook your food.

I'm actually heading home early.

Hey.

Morning.

How're you doing?

Uh, you know.

Just confirmation of what

I already knew.

R.J.

You're great. You don't have

to prove yourself.

It wasn't only about

proving myself.

It was that cooking

is the first thing

that I've ever really loved.

First thing that felt right,

that felt like it could be mine.

And you're great at it.

You can't expect to be perfect

straight out of the gate.

Well, we can't all be you, right?

What does that mean?

It's always been hard to be

your little brother.

To stand in your shadow.

You were always so smart

and everything came easy

and you got a full ride to

college and meanwhile,

I just had every teacher

asking why I wasn't

more like you.

Why didn't you ever

tell me that?

I don't know.

And I know you have

all your stuff too.

That you're not always living

the dream,

but have trouble admitting it.

Right.

A lot of the time I feel lost.

Lost to you guys,

lost to myself.

I think that's why I'm so

preoccupied with Nonno

because part of me understands

what he's going through.

That feeling of slipping away

from yourself.

Or slipping away from the people

you love.

I don't think it's random,

you becoming a chef.

I think it's destiny.

You inherited Nonna's gift

and meeting Monica

just helped you realize that.

I think you're right.

Nonno's usually back by now.

Maybe he went

for a longer walk?

Yeah, maybe.

Or maybe he's at Ella's.

Yeah, I'll call her.

Hello?

Hey, is Nonno there?

No, why would he be?

I don't know.

Um, he is usually back

from his walk by now.

Maybe he's playing cards?

Yeah, he usually goes

there later.

I'll check.

Ok, just let me know.

Bye.

He might be at

the senior centre.

I'm gonna go look for him there.

Ok, I'll stay here in case

he comes back.

Ok.

Rocco, hey.

Anna.

Have you seen my grandpa?

Today?

No, I haven't seen him.

Ok thanks.

Hi, has Vincent Colluccia

been in here this morning?

I don't think so, but let me

double check.

Thank you.

Hey.

Hey. We don't have an

appointment today, do we?

No, I'm looking for my grandpa.

He went for his walk this

morning, or, I assume he did.

He's usually gone before I get

up, but he hasn't come back yet.

How late is he?

An hour, an hour and a half.

It's not much, but his schedule

is usually like clockwork.

I said I'm worried

but I don't know if I'm worried

about nothing.

It might be nothing, but

we should call the police.

I really hope he's ok.

I just checked in

with the police again.

Nothing yet.

What if something

happened to him?

He's ok, I know it.

He could be anywhere.

He could be, he could be lost

in the woods.

He could be hurt.

You were supposed to be

watching him.

He likes to go walking

by himself.

Mom said that that was ok.

I'm not saying

it's your fault,

I'm just saying that

maybe you should have spend

a little more time on Nonno

and a little less time

on a pasta sauce.

It's not about the sauce, Ella!

Then what is it about?

It's about us!

Our family.

Our history.

How to hold onto that,

how to record that because

once it's gone, it's gone!

Nonno?

Mom?

Aloha!

Mom, what are you...

I was supposed to come get you.

I took an earlier flight.

I wanted to surprise you.

What's happened?

What is it?

Nonno went for his walk this

morning and he didn't come home.

That... He could be lost.

He might not find his way home.

What if he thinks he is

already home?

What?

I think I know where he is.

Wait, I'm coming with you.

I'll hold the fort down.

Ok.

Nonno! Are you alright?

Oh, si, si, I'm alright.

What happened?

I don't know.

I, I went for my morning

walk and then...

I can't remember.

It's like a page is ripped out

of the book.

And I, I couldn't find my phone.

I didn't have my wallet.

I didn't, I didn't know how

to get home.

It's alright, Nonno.

We've got you.

- Ok.

- Yeah.

Let's get you out

of the cold, ok?

Ok.

You want to tell me why

you didn't call me back?

I'm sorry.

There was an incident

with Nonno yesterday.

He's ok, but it was scary.

And also, I didn't call

you back

because I didn't know

what to say.

I failed and it

was embarrassing.

Listen, I apologized to your dad

and I also want to say,

I really like you.

Of course I do.

You're amazing.

And the problem is?

Problem is, honestly,

you're too good for me.

I think you think

I'm someone I'm not.

But really, I'm just,

I don't know.

I'm me.

But I don't think that you're

somebody that you're not.

I know you're you.

And I love you, for you.

You love me?

Of course.

Wow. Ok. I mean...

...ditto.

R.J! You cannot ditto that.

I love you too.

R.J.

I want to discuss the New Years

menu with you.

I want another special from ya.

Yes, Chef.

Oh, you're back.

Where were you off to

so early this morning?

Last minute Christmas

gift idea.

Oh.

I was suddenly inspired.

Nice.

Thank you so much

for taking care of Papa.

Well, you're off duty now.

I've got him from here.

But I don't want to be

off duty.

I don't want to leave all

of this on your shoulders.

It's ok, love.

It's not a burden.

It's family.

And family means sharing

the burden.

How you feeling?

Oh, I'm fine, really.

You don't need to dote on me.

We're not doting.

We love you and we were worried.

Oh yeah?

Me too.

Merry Christmas!

Oh! There they are!

Hi, hi.

Merry Christmas.

How are you?

Merry Christmas.

Hey, Merry Christmas.

Merry Christmas!

Merry Christmas.

Hey.

- Hi.

- Hi.

So, what's the plan

for Christmas dinner?

Are we still making sugo?

No, I haven't figured out

the recipe.

Well that's ok.

We'll do, we'll do Chinese?

Actually, could I give you all

your Christmas presents now?

Did you know about this, Mom?

I know nothing.

Nonno?

What is this?

Who's is who's?

- They're all the same.

- Ok.

Then I want the red one.

- Thank you.

- Thanks.

Go on, open them.

Oh!

Oh my, Anna.

The recipe!

How, how did you...

Where did you find it?

In the pocket of her cardigan.

And I have all the ingredients

right there.

Ah.

So I guess my only

question is,

why are we still sitting here?

Sure I can't help?

No!

Maybe you can set the table?

Ok.

How's it going there, Nonno?

Oh, you know.

No matter how hard we try,

it's not gonna be the same.

Doesn't have to be the same.

All that matters is that

it's done together.

Okie dokie, artichoke-ie.

Oh, I forgot something.

Can you take over for me?

Of course.

I'm sorry that I left.

It's not that you left.

I wanted you to leave.

Or, I wanted you to live

your life.

It's ok that you left, I just,

I felt like you left me.

And I needed you.

I still need you.

You're my big sister.

I'm gonna act like it.

Ok, no crying in the food.

It's salty enough.

Looks like Dr. Greg

just pulled up.

Best behavior, everyone.

Mmhmm.

No promises!

Hi.

- Merry Christmas.

- Merry Christmas.

I made pierogis.

In Ukrainian we call

them varenyky.

I grew up on 'em.

I can't wait to try them.

Nonno?

Oh. Got me.

It was you all along.

Our little secret.

Oh! Wow.

Table looks beautiful.

Momma did it.

I guess we all have our talents.

I got that for you.

- Thank you.

- Mmhm.

Can I get you a drink?

Yeah, sure. Thanks.

I've been thinking

and I realized

that I'm actually not

an alone person.

I was never an alone person.

Anna! Back in the kitchen!

I'll be right back.

Whoa yeah

We've hung the ornaments

with care

It's Christmas time, my dear

You can feel it in the air

It looks pretty good!

We put our cookies

for St. Nick.

The snow is falling down

Hey!

Hey!

Nonno, do you mind

if I go first?

Please.

Someone wise once told me

that life is short

and love is a gift.

That someone wise was me.

It's true.

And I don't want a life

without you all.

So, I've decided to move home.

I've already reached out

to the local university

about a teaching position.

Now is the time.

My mother once said

that family is uh,

when you act the worst

but are loved the best.

She was joking, somewhat.

But remember, that family

is not just the most

important thing,

it's everything!

So Buon Natale!

Buon Natale!

Go ahead, Nonno.

How does it taste?

It tastes like home!

Wait! We forgot something.

The pickle!

Found it!