Gift of Peace, The (2022)

Christmas & New Years movies collection.

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Christmas & New Years movies collection.
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Gift of Peace, The (2022)

Post by bunniefuu »

Every day,

we pass strangers around us,

exchanging smiles,

friendly nods...

maybe even a "Merry Christmas"

if we're in the spirit.

And as we smile

and greet that stranger,

you may think to yourself,

"I wonder

what their life is like?"

You might not even

think about it

for more than a moment,

as your paths

aren't likely to cross again...

...yet these complete strangers

would find their way

to one other...

...forming bonds that,

at first,

may seem unlikely.

Sometimes, we discover,

those bonds may turn out to be

the very best kind.

There you go!

Are you happy now?

I am.

Now you can play

1/12th of "Silent Night".

- Wonderful!

- Mm-hmm.

Well...

when we meet our deadline

and deliver these paintings

to the Christmas Gallery,

then you can teach me

the other 11 parts. How's that?

I know you're worried

about us not selling enough

at the gallery to make rent,

but...

God will make a way.

You're right.

Please, God,

let the love of my life

come over here and help me

finish these paintings.

Amen.

Happy first day

of December, Traci!

I got you a little something.

Isn't it a little early

for a little something?

Thought it might

liven the place up.

There's chocolates

for each day!

That'll get you

in the spirit.

Thank you.

I love it.

Is excessive consumption

of sweets

a stage of grief?

Because if so,

then I am really cruising

through that part

of the process.

All right, let's see,

only...

23 more chocolates until our--

...my annual

Christmas exhibition.

Want to see

what I've been working on?

Mm! Great!

You just wait!

This I like to call...

"Silent Not".

Oh, boy.

Yeah.

And this little, sweet gem

over here

I like to call

"Riding in

a Half-Horse, Open Sleigh".

Okay, Trace,

I am your best friend first

and your manager second--

and while the manager side of me

is a little nervous

you won't be done

for Christmas Eve,

the friend side of me...

...understands.

If you need to take

another year off, take it.

No. No.

It's been two years, Joyce.

I have to do this.

I have to figure out

how to work without him.

It's just...

we complemented each other

in...

every way, you know?

I don't know, I...

I see potential here.

I think you can do this.

And I know exactly

what you need to do next.

Plant myself

in front of that easel

until I've finished

my masterpiece?

No, silly...

clear your mind!

I'm taking you

Christmas shopping!

- No!

- Yup!

Yes! 100%!

Can't be sad

at the Christmas market.

It's illegal.

You've just had too much.

I can't help myself.

Hey!

You guys are still here?

Well, we were chatting

after the meeting as usual...

Which then turned into

us getting a three-hour

hot chocolate together...

...Which then ended

in me realizing

I forgot my scarf at church,

so we came back here to get it.

I see.

That's when we noticed

our beloved leader

working away here!

You need help?

No, no, no.

You guys, no.

Look, I've got it covered.

I think I'm ready to deliver

these boxes

to the women's shelter,

and children's hospital

youth center--

so I'm good.

Hey, Mike, I have a question.

Are you the real Santa Claus?

Give us your best "Ho-Ho-Ho".

Ho-ho-ho, Justin!

Oh, but that wasn't a no.

No, No.

Listen--

I appreciate the offer,

I do,

but I really would like

to deliver these solo,

if I could.

All right.

But...

promise us that you will also

do something for yourself.

You spend all your time

helping everyone else.

I know I do,

and I will, okay?

Okay.

Now...

I love you guys, but...

let's go! Out!

Okay! We're going!

We're going, we're going.

- See ya.

- See ya later.

Here we go.

Ah, yes.

Come on! Pick any one

you want, my treat!

All right, um...

Ooh! How about that one?

Hmm.

- Oh!

- Oh, I'm sorry!

No, no, no, no!

You take it!

Please, I insist.

You touched it

one second before me,

so, technically, you had dibs.

Oh.

So those are the rules

for "dibs" then, huh?

I don't make the rules,

I do enforce them.

- Thank you.

- Yeah.

Two strangers insisting

the other gets what they want

certainly beats the alternative

this time of year, huh?

Oh, you...

you should have seen

the tug-of-w*r I witnessed

between two moms

and a toy car on Black Friday.

I can only imagine.

Brutal.

You know, you take this.

What?

You can have it. I...

I...

I have to go. Yeah.

Have a nice day.

What was that all about?

He looks familiar.

I think he goes to the church

that Greg and I went to.

- Grace Community?

- Yeah.

My memory's fuzzy,

but I think he led

a support group there.

Of course, I haven't

been back since...

You know, when my aunt

passed away a few years back,

I went to a grief-support group

at a local church.

It really helped me.

There's just something special

about healing alongside others

who are going through

the same thing.

And look!

Grace has one, too!

Thank you.

I just don't think

it's my thing.

I don't.

Besides, I'm feeling like

my old self again!

Yeah!

Joy! Happiness! Fun!

Boop-boop-boop!

I'm not fooling anyone, am I?

Who knows.

Maybe it will help you move past

this "painter block".

I'll take this one.

How's that?

It's gorgeous.

We'll take it.

All right.

Thank you.

Here you go.

Made your favorite--

pancakes,

Christmas-style,

with red and green sprinkles.

Dad, you do know I'm not

five years old anymore, right?

Well, you know what...

...they actually

still do the trick.

Thank you.

How's the Christmas painting

coming along?

Well, it's not exactly

coming along quite yet.

There is clearly

something missing.

Well...

we think it is so admirable

that you're choosing

to carry on

the work

that you two shared together.

Maybe you just need

a little inspiration?

My childhood art projects?

Where did you dig these up?

I found them

when I was cleaning

the other day.

Do you remember

the very first art show

that you put on for us?

Yes, I was about the same age

as when you used to make me

these pancakes.

Look, it's Freddy Teddy.

Do you remember Freddy Teddy?

I remember Freddy Teddy.

I stood in line for hours

for a "Freddy Teddy".

This is not bad for a kid.

- Not bad at all.

- No.

Try to remember

why you became an artist

in the first place.

To make people

feel something special.

And isn't that what brought

you and Greg together?

I'm sorry, Trace.

I didn't mean to--

No, no, no, no, no.

Dad, it's...

it's okay.

Just some memories

just hit harder than others.

Well, don't forget

that we are here for you.

We are so...

blessed...

that we're your parents.

And I am so lucky

to be your daughter.

Are you copying me?

- Oh...

- I'm gonna tell the teacher.

No, no. I was...

admiring the colors

and the detail.

It's a lot better than mine.

I don't know.

I think you're in good shape.

Aw, thank you.

I work out.

I'm Greg.

Traci.

Traci Fremont!

Patricia.

It's been a while.

Yes! Oh!

It's so good to have you back

for the gallery this Christmas!

We really missed you last year.

Now, Joyce said

she was working

on the press release. How is--

Press release?

Um... I thought you knew.

You are committed, right?

No. Yes, yes, yes! I am. Yes.

Sorry, it just...

Listen,

if you're still not ready...

I am. I am.

I just...

I need to make a call.

- Okay.

- Okay.

Joyce, hey.

I was thinking about

our conversation at the market.

What time is that next meeting?

- What's her name?

- Traci, I think.

Yeah, I think so.

So we'll just wait.

Hey, there she is. Hey!

Hey.

You... you must be Traci.

I am.

We got your email about

possibly joining the group.

I'm sorry. You look

extremely familiar to me.

Have we met?

At the Christmas market.

Remember the ornament?

Oh, yes!

That's right. Yeah.

Yeah.

That's very...

very funny.

Please! Come on, join us.

Have a seat.

My name is Michael.

I'm sort of

the fearless leader

of our little group here.

Mostly fearless--

except when he sees a spider.

Okay, come on.

You should've seen him

the other day...

he jumped, like,

three feet in the air!

Okay, well, yes--

and I only did that once--

because the spider

was really big.

It was about, like, that.

So, this is--

this is everybody?

Yes. No, it's...

yeah, this is everybody.

We're kind of small but mighty!

Right, you guys?

I'll introduce you.

This is Ethel.

Hello.

We have Regina here.

- Hi.

- Hi.

And Justin.

Hi!

Hi.

So, what do you say

we get started, huh?

Traci, before every session,

we like to bow our heads

in prayer.

Dear God,

I want to thank you

for bringing us

all together tonight.

The team handling his surgery

is the best there is.

So there's hope?

In his case, in particular...

...it's a risky procedure.

I'd be doing you a disservice

if I gave you false hope.

But we've prayed.

Me, our church,

family, and friends,

we've prayed.

He'll be okay.

- Amen.

- Amen!

I'm really sorry, everyone.

I, um...

It was nice meeting you.

Traci! Traci!

Are you okay?

No.

No, I am...

I thought I was ready.

I'm not.

Look, the hardest part

is just showing up.

Okay?

We just want you to feel

welcome here, that's all.

Thank you.

Thank you, but...

...I can't.

I can't.

Okay...

Good work, partner.

Thank you.

Hey, what do you say

we donate this one?

Yeah. 'Tis the season.

God provided for us

and now we get to bless

someone else.

I love it.

I'm lucky...

that you said yes

to that hot chocolate

all those years ago.

Oh, ho, ho.

You're just lucky that place

was stocked

full of marshmallows.

I'm just glad we get to do this

for the rest of our lives.

Mm-hmm.

Mm-hmm.

Excuse me.

Oh!

Oops.

It's okay.

I have a thousand

of these shirts.

Do not worry

about anything, okay?

It was my fault.

I shouldn't have

snuck up on you like that--

especially

when you were in the zone.

- Oh...

- Do you paint?

- I do.

- Wow, really?

Yeah.

That's fabulous,

because I could...

use your expertise,

if you don't mind.

I'm looking for the right paint

for toy wooden trains.

Toy wooden trains?

Yeah, yeah.

It's something the group does

every year at Christmas.

Oh.

This year, we're providing toys

to the youth center

so they can decorate.

Do our work and stuff like that.

- That's really sweet.

- Thank you.

It kinda even sounds like...

- Fun?

- Fun.

- Fun!

- Yeah.

No, it's a lot

of fun, actually.

We like to mix things up.

I mean...

Talking in a circle

is just one of the things we do,

but... yeah.

- Quick recommendation?

- Sure!

- Yes, are you kidding? Please.

- Okay. Great.

Um, I would recommend

the non-toxic acrylic.

Okay.

Especially since

it's kids, right?

They have

every color imaginable.

I'll just pull some for you.

Ah, this is amazing.

Thank you so much.

Of course!

Green, Christmas.

Okay...

It's kind of funny

that we just bumped into

each other again like this.

You know, at first, the market,

then group, then here.

Ooh! Nice catch.

Well, they do say

third time's a charm.

Except that--

not so lucky.

Yeah, well...

you know, people do say

it's either luck, or fate,

or God.

Or a complete coincidence.

Thank you.

Well, I don't really

believe in coincidences, so.

- Uh, hey?

- Yeah?

I just wanted to apologize

again for the other night.

To be honest...

prayer is tough for me.

I don't know

what I was expecting

walking into a church.

Hey, it's okay.

It's fine, it's fine.

My offer still stands.

You know, we'd love to have you,

and no praying required, okay?

All right?

So, how much--

No, no, no.

It's on me.

Because that's on him.

- Thank you very much.

- Yes, of course.

I think the blue actually

does help bring out my eyes.

What do you think?

- Mom?

- Hmm?

What other things

was I good at growing up?

What weren't you good at!

Math, Science,

making necklaces

out of those little candies...

A mathematician and scientist

are probably

more practical careers,

but making candy necklaces

sounds like a lot more fun.

Uh-oh.

Has your creative block

progressed to the point

where you're considering

changing careers?

It's just I kept the apartment

for the art studio,

but now I don't even

want to make art, so.

You might feel that way now,

but you'll get your groove back.

You know,

it just takes time.

Or maybe it's time

I let it go.

You know...

Greg loved

talking about your gifts,

your compassion,

your...

perseverance...

your knack for helping others.

So, before you go make

any big decisions,

think about the ways

that your...

gifts

influence your art.

Whoa!

Did Michelangelo

design these?

Oh, Dad.

Hey, where are you going

with those?

Well...

I am going to take them

to some people...

who could use

a little Christmas cheer.

That looks great, Ethel.

Thank you.

Thank you for taking the lead

on the trimmings.

You're welcome.

So what do you say

we get started, guys?

Huh?

Yeah, sounds good.

It's about time.

All right...

Hi.

I brought cookies.

I hope I don't spoil

your dinner.

Not at all.

Justin already

spoiled our dinner!

But we always

have room for more.

Well...

technically,

they are "apology cookies".

I am--

I'm really sorry

for running out.

No need

to apologize, dear.

We're just happy you came back!

This group

is all about second chances.

Yeah, and third chances,

fourth chances...

however many it takes.

Yeah.

So, since this is

Traci's official first meeting,

I'd like to remind everybody

this is

a judgment-free zone here.

Speak freely, honestly,

but only if you're led,

and keep in mind

that whatever is said here...

stays here. Okay?

I thought we'd start

with some check-ins.

Let's have a seat,

shall we?

Okay.

I took a trip

down to the Christmas market,

where Ron and I used to play

Santa and Mrs. Claus.

I didn't stay for very long,

but I...

I did manage to sit

with the discomfort

for a little while.

That's good,

because I know that you and Ron

have shared

a lot of memories there.

So many happy ones.

Ron was the best Santa

in the whole world.

We married later in life,

so we never had

any kids of our own.

but one year,

Ron had the idea

to volunteer as Santa.

...definitely on the Nice List.

He already had

the look down pat.

Santa sees a toy truck

in your future.

Oh!

What would I do without you,

Mrs. Claus?

Plus the occasional kid

that would tug on his beard

to make sure

he was the real Santa.

Yeah.

His beard was real.

It was real.

My husband passed away

a couple of years ago,

and...

...life has not been

the same since then, but...

...the passing of time helps.

Especially when you're

surrounded by loved ones.

Thank you.

Thank you!

Thank you. Yeah.

May I actually go next?

Of course.

Yeah, I...

I was supposed to stop

by my parents' house

the other night for dinner,

but...

I just told myself

it would end

in another argument.

So I went back to the bakery,

as usual.

I mean, it's just...

I think it's just

where I feel closest to Nai Nai.

Oh! Nai Nai is my grandmother.

Yeah, I've been running

her bakery

ever since she passed away

last year,

hence our weekly sugar-rushes.

Thank you.

I dropped out of law school

to take it over.

And that did not go over well

with my dad.

Well, Justin,

I know you'll patch things up

with your dad.

You will.

When the time is right, okay?

Thanks. I hope so.

Regina?

Would you like

to share anything today?

That's totally okay.

Traci?

And there's no pressure at all.

I feel angry.

Okay.

That's all

I really want to say.

Thank you for sharing.

Thank you, all.

...And the fire alarm

in the kitchen was blaring.

When the firefighters

showed up,

I was mortified.

I mean, it was my first time

baking all those pies at once.

You know, Nai Nai trusted

I could do it all on my own,

but she probably trusted me

a little too much.

But, you know, she still gave me

another chance after that,

and that's

what I loved about her.

She-- she embodied

the spirit of forgiveness.

I think your Nai Nai and I

would have made fast friends.

No doubt about it.

I... I have a question.

Sure.

Does talking about all this...

ever make you feel like

you're just reliving the pain

of the loss of them

over and over again?

I felt a lot of anger, too.

It seemed like everyone

was trying really hard

to say the right thing.

I appreciated their efforts,

but I was so angry

that nobody

could really understand.

They understand.

So...

I just want to say,

before we close tonight,

I need to discuss

one small order of business.

Now, I know we all know

that helping others

during the holiday season,

it's a big thing

of what we do here,

so we are all volunteering

at the children's youth center

this Sunday

for the Polar Express

Christmas Party.

But we have to all discuss

how we can contribute, so...

I've got baked goods covered.

Check.

- I could bring some decorations.

- Love it.

I can handle story-telling.

Good. Okay.

There's one thing missing.

We need somebody who can

actually help paint toy trains.

Man, I wish we knew somebody

with that skill set...

I will be there.

Great! Thank you, Traci!

Yes.

All right, session complete.

See you all this weekend.

Hi.

Hey.

You seem...

happy.

Well, why wouldn't I be?

Look who's sitting next to me.

Traci! Traci!

Hey.

Um...

I just wanted to say

I'm glad you came tonight.

Oh...

All right, listen.

Hit me with it--

first impressions?

Everyone was warm and welcoming.

Sorry my contributions

were a bit...

...minimal.

What are you talking about?

No, they weren't at all.

There are no expectations, ever.

- Thank you.

- I mean, look at Regina.

She's been here

for, I think, a few months

and has only said

a couple of words, so.

Everybody's at their own pace.

So, I will see you

Sunday, right?

Paintbrush in-hand.

Hey, I'll keep

my distance then.

I noticed...

that you didn't share.

Sorry?

I don't mean to assume...

Have you also lost someone?

I mean...

Yeah, I mean...

You know what,

you don't need to answer that.

I should not

have asked you that.

It's okay.

No, it's totally okay,

all right?

It's just, as the leader,

I like to put my focus

on everyone else.

But listen,

I've got to lock up.

I'm glad you came tonight again.

Goodnight, okay?

Yeah.

- I'll see you Sunday?

- Yeah.

All right!

Trace?

Picked you up

some morning motivation!

Peppermint mocha!

How are you so joyful

so early in the morning?

"Joy"-- it's right there

in my name!

- Hi.

- Hi.

Oh!

Oh, no, no, no, no.

It's not there yet, it's not,

but at least I was able

to get some work done

after last night.

Oh! After the group, right?

How was that?

You know what,

it... it wasn't horrible, actually.

I mean, I don't know

how much I'll share,

if at all,

but it was kind of nice

being around people

who understood

what I was going through.

I know, I know.

You were right.

It seems to be having

a positive effect on your art.

I mean, look--

you've gone from half-paintings

to three-fourths of paintings!

I think that's called

deadline anxiety.

Have you landed on a theme?

- Ready for it?

- Mm-hmm.

"Christmas"!

I'm gonna need

a little more than that

for the promotional materials.

I'll keep working on it.

Okay, well, I'll let you be.

Remember, the artists'

meet and greet is next week.

Talking about

what you're planning to present

will really help generate

some buzz.

Greg used to do that.

Hey...

you're not gonna be

alone up there.

I'll be right next to you

if you need me.

Thank you.

I'm gonna work

for a few more hours,

and then I'm gonna meet Michael

at the youth center.

Michael?

Uh, he leads the support group,

and we're--

we're volunteering

at the youth center today.

Great.

Oh, wait--

he's the guy,

the one from the market,

with the ornament.

The handsome one

who got all shy around you

like a boy with a crush?

I think we're remembering

that moment differently,

but yes.

Mm-hmm.

What are the odds

you'd bump into him

at the market?

Maybe that divine meeting

was just meant to be.

I don't know

that I really believe

that anything

is "meant to be" anymore.

But you know

what I do believe in?

Hmm?

- Coffee.

- Coffee!

- Coffee.

- Coffee.

Come and behold Him

Born the King of Angels

O, come let us adore Him...

O, come let us adore Him

O, come let us adore Him...

Christ the Lord

Amazing, guys!

Yes! Yes!

Take five, guys.

I appreciate that.

Thank you, thank you.

All right.

Regina! Hey!

Hi.

Any chance

we'll see you back up here

one of these Sundays, or?

Maybe.

The choir

isn't the same without you.

I miss you.

We miss you!

And I know

she would love to hear you

up there again, too.

I'll... I'll see you soon.

Hey...

All right, y'all.

Round two!

Hello, Michael!

Denise, hey!

Merry Christmas.

So, listen, I've got clothes,

I've got books,

I've got toys galore.

Well, on behalf

of me and the kids,

it's always

very much appreciated.

Well, I appreciate you.

Um, I've got to get

all of these boxes in there

before the group arrives, so.

- Hey.

- Yeah?

I'm a little worried about you.

Yeah, I'm doing fine.

I'm fine. No.

I'm just trying to help out

wherever there's a need.

Just like Melody did.

I've known you and Melody

for years now,

so I think I can say this...

It seems like

you're trying to atone

for something

you had no control over.

Denise, I don't know

what else to do.

Okay?

I know this isn't

going to bring her back,

but it definitely

eases the guilt.

You have nothing

to feel guilty about.

Well, listen...

would you mind helping me

finish all these?

Feel the magic

once again

It's coming, it's coming

Christmas

Gather family

Bring your friends...

- You're getting a workout.

- Tell me about it.

Makes up for all those weeks

I skipped leg day.

Hey, tell you what--

why don't you and I

do some face painting?

And then we give

Conductor Michael here

a little bit of a break.

What do you think?

All right.

All right, come on.

One, two, three-- Oh!

All right, so here's the deal.

The key is you just

have to sit super still--

Cookies!

There she goes.

There goes my subject.

Well, you know what,

I'll be your muse.

- Yeah?

- Yeah.

- Here we go...

- All right.

Are you ready for this?

Yeah. Make me pretty.

All right...

- Okay.

- Okay.

You know,

you're really good with kids.

How can you not love them?

They inspire me

to have "child-like faith".

I guess you're right.

All right.

This might truly be

my best work yet.

Really?

- I mean... yes.

- Drumroll.

Pretty amazing.

Ta-dah!

Oh! Wow!

Oh, no.

I'm not done.

I'm going into Vogue.

I'm not done!

Here we go!

Now you're done.

Oh, that's...

Guys, come look at

Conductor Michael!

I mean, look at this.

- Rudolph the Reindeer!

- Rudolph the Reindeer!

Rudolph the Reindeer!

Those kids had a blast!

I think

the more exhausted we were,

the more fun they had.

That's a good way

of putting it.

I'm spent.

Listen, guys,

I want to thank you

for your hard work today.

It was such

a special, special day.

Good job.

Do you want me

to put it over here?

No, let's just

put all the stuff down here.

The doctor said not to worry.

You've got the best care

in the world.

How are you?

Always putting others first.

I love

your big, beautiful heart.

At least that's one part of me

that's still in good shape.

I'm gonna be home

before you know it.

We're gonna be painting...

eating too many

Christmas cookies.

Singing in church...

Front row?

Best seats in the house.

Yeah.

"Best seats in the house."

- Hey, Trace!

- Hi!

December 15th!

Don't remind me.

The gallery is neigh.

Don't you mean "nigh"?

I like "neigh,"

like the reindeer would say.

'Tis the season, right?

Thank you!

Got a front-page ad

for your exhibit!

Oh, man.

And top billing

on the gallery invite.

"Traci Fremont returns

for a holiday surprise."

You're a genius.

It'll add intrigue,

and give you more time

to pick a theme.

Now, don't forget,

meet and greet is on Thursday.

Think you could have it

figured out by then?

Traci Fremont's Return...

Is Neigh."

- Yeah.

- I'll keep working on it.

Okay.

Oh...

it all looks so good.

How much for one of everything?

Traci?

After all your stories,

I feel like I'm visiting

a historical landmark.

Yeah. Well, in a way,

it kind of is one.

Are you headed to group soon?

Yeah.

I just gotta put

some stuff away.

Did you--

did you wanna walk together?

I would love that.

Cool.

Ooh, one last thing.

Compliments of the chef.

How can I resist?

Let me see...

Maybe this.

Best choice.

- Yeah!

- Yeah.

Mm...

Mm!

Wait, is this chocolate

inside a chocolate donut

with chocolate frosting

and chocolate sprinkles?

Oh, yeah!

That is Nai Nai's

quadruple chocolate donut.

It's about

a week's worth of calories.

Worth it.

That's what they say.

Now...

has your dad tried this?

He...

won't even set foot in here.

I think if your dad

could see, or, rather, taste,

how talented you are...

he'd be more supportive.

Right.

But...

that would just require us

to have a conversation first.

I'll be right back.

For sure...

Um...

I'll see you in there.

Oh, do you mind taking this?

Thanks.

"The Best Seats in the House".

Hey.

Hey!

I'm sorry, what was that?

That's what Greg always called

the front row--

"The Best Seats in the House".

Oh, right.

Well...

he definitely wasn't wrong.

I'm sorry, I'm interrupting--

No, no, no, no.

No. You're not interrupting

at all, actually.

I just--

I always come here early

to pray for the group, so.

Any requests?

Where does one begin?

You know, I have a...

- a deadline...

- Hmm.

...and no idea what to present.

So...

a miracle?

A miracle it is.

Do you ever wonder if it...

if it doesn't work?

Hmm.

You know, I think...

I think a small degree of doubt

is normal.

But I also believe that

God answers prayers sometimes

in ways we don't expect.

Hmm.

I stopped praying.

When I lost him.

It just...

feels so wrong to say that.

Hey, hey, hey...

...it's not.

It's normal.

It's honest.

And it's honest.

Yes.

I hope I wasn't being rude

whenever I asked you

if you had lost someone.

No.

No, you weren't rude at all.

It's okay.

The truth is...

...I have lost someone.

- I'm really sorry.

- That's okay.

We don't have to talk about it.

Honestly, I--

I couldn't really

help you anyway.

I mean, my faith

is not exactly sturdy, so.

Well, in that case...

You know, God says

all you need is to have faith

the size of a mustard seed.

I have a feeling

you have that much.

Why do you think

things like this happen?

I think it's a reminder.

To always live each day

to the fullest,

but also I think it's a way

for Him to show us...

how He restores and heals us.

And all we have to do is pray.

Great photos, guys.

I really love seeing

what you did here.

I think I'm ready to share.

Okay.

Um...

my husband, Greg, and I

met six years ago

in art class.

My parents said that we were

a "match made in heaven".

So, we got married,

and I felt like

God gave me everything

I could have ever wanted.

Yeah.

Until I lost it all.

Greg had a brain tumor.

The doctors tried,

but...

I miss him every day.

You know, Traci,

that takes...

a lot of courage

to open up like that.

I hope you believe me

when I say this...

...that's what healing

looks like.

Can we pray for you?

Yeah.

Yeah.

Heavenly Father,

I want to thank you...

...for a wonderful day.

But also for a day

where you showed us

that,

even within our grief,

we can find joy.

As we leave this place today,

bless us...

...and comfort us.

I don't think

I can do this.

Just be yourself!

You really want me to do that?

I haven't finished my art,

I don't have a theme,

and I clam up

when talking in front of people.

Your art will be finished,

you can tease them

with the element of surprise,

and, most importantly,

you're here.

Okay? You'll be fine.

Ladies and gentlemen,

may I have

your attention, please?

Thank you for coming

to the pre-gallery

artist meet and greet!

Let's start with

our very own Traci Fremont!

Hey, everyone.

Um, it's good to see you again.

You may have noticed

I'm here solo.

Two years ago,

I lost my husband, Greg.

Now he would, you know,

probably warm you all up

with a really great joke.

I don't have one of those

in my pocket.

To be honest,

it has just been--

it's hard.

It's been really hard.

When you feel like

half of you is missing,

how do you move forward?

You know?

So...

you are going to see

a new version

of the Fremont series this year.

One of...

resilience...

...and healing.

And it's probably

going to be messy,

because that's life...

...but I really do believe

that that's where

true beauty is found.

So I hope you come

and check out my exhibit.

Thank you.

What. Was. That.

I don't know what came over me,

it just kinda spilled out.

And it was amazing!

- Really?

- Yes!

The perfect way

to channel your feelings

into your work!

You hit a home run.

I almost ran out of here.

You managed

to pull it together.

It was a Christmas miracle, perhaps?

Whatever it was, it worked.

It was the support group,

wasn't it?

I knew it!

I'm always right!

Calm down.

You're giving yourself just

a little bit too much credit.

Oh, I don't know.

I think someone

is looking out for you.

See Him in a manger lay

Whom the choirs

of angels praise

Mary, Joseph lend your aid

While our hearts

in love we raise

Come adore on bended knee

Christ the Lord

the newborn King

Hi, sweetie.

- Hi!

- Hi!

Wow!

Who did you hire

to make this place

all sparkly and shiny?

Well, I did it all by myself.

With the help of

five to six cups of coffee.

Well, we brought you

some sweets

to fuel your work.

Oh!

Just keep them away

from your father.

Mm-hmm.

Hey, I had a carrot yesterday!

And it wasn't even in a cake.

Oh.

Well, I'm very proud of you.

Huh.

Something tells me

that you guys

didn't just stop by

to give me some sweets.

We heard about

your support group.

Ah, Joyce.

We think it's wonderful

that you're getting yourself

back out there,

and we want to hear

all about it!

Who's this

Michael fella anyway?

Okay, Dad.

He's just a friend.

Friends are good.

Yes...

friends have been really good.

- Hey!

- Hey!

This was on your door.

Thank you!

So much.

Well, this is interesting.

What?

A text from Michael.

He says,

"Meet me in front of the church

tomorrow at 5:00 a.m.

And dress warm!"

Thank you.

Winky face.

Winky face, huh?

Yeah...

It's to the whole group.

Well, I wonder

what he has planned.

It better be good.

5:00 a.m.?

What's his story anyway?

I don't know.

He hasn't told me it,

but I'm sure he will

when he's ready.

Good Morning, everyone!

Who's ready for

a winter wonderland adventure?

I'm ready for a nap.

I second that.

- Yeah?

- Yeah.

- Here you go.

- Lifesaver.

Let me guess,

you're not a morning person?

I'm about to be.

All right, I am

your tour guide this morning

as we head

to a very special location.

Thank you.

All aboard!

- You're in?

- Yeah.

Groovy.

I know it's early

and it's dark outside, guys,

but trust me,

if you look

outside the window,

you'll see this gorgeous--

Okay.

Night-night, guys.

How about you?

You still awake?

You all right?

Yeah... yeah.

Just thinking.

Well, I'll tell you what...

I bet I can make you laugh

by the end of this trip.

What are the stakes?

Ooh.

Okay.

You drive

a hard bargain there, Traci.

The stakes are...

the loser buys the winner

a dozen sweet treats

of their choice

from Nai Nai's bakery.

What do you think?

Deal.

You're on.

Well, we're almost there,

you guys.

Hey, listen,

I want to discuss

this week's theme.

"Finding Peace".

What better way

to experience that

than in nature, right?

What's our task?

You don't have a task, Ethel.

As a matter of fact,

none of you do.

All I want you to do...

stay in the moment.

If you have a memory or thought,

let it be there,

make room for it.

That's it.

Okay.

Yeah, now I see

why you got us up here so early.

Right?

This is where

I feel closest to God.

Right here.

The stillness, the quiet...

the closer proximity to Heaven.

It's a place you can look out

and see something

bigger than yourself.

Go tell it on the mountain

Over the hills

and everywhere

Go tell it

on the mountain...

Can I tell you about my mom?

Go tell it

on the mountain...

She was

the lead singer at church.

Over the hills

and everywhere...

Had the most soulful voice

you've ever heard.

Go tell it

on the mountain

That Jesus Christ is born

While shepherds

kept their watch...

And it wasn't just

her voice that was powerful...

O'er silent flocks

by night...

...it was her spirit.

Behold

throughout the heavens

There shone a holy light

Go tell it

on the mountain

Over the hills

and everywhere

Go tell it

on the mountain

That Jesus Christ is born

Music was everything to us.

I lost her

only a couple of months ago.

My mother,

my singing partner...

...and...

when I lost her,

I...

also lost my voice.

But now, it's...

it's like she's here.

I love you.

That was beautiful.

Regina...

...you okay?

Yeah, I'm okay.

Um...

I think I'm ready

to go back down now.

- Thank you for sharing.

- Yeah, thanks.

I'm proud of you.

Wow.

She's come so far.

You helped make that happen.

Speaking of help...

You okay?

No, my back--

getting old here.

Think you could carry me

down to the--

I got you!

- No!

- No, no!

I got you.

You owe me.

- That does not count.

- Of course, it counts.

Made you laugh.

Like I told you I would.

Tricky.

Fine!

Oh!

And trust me,

I'm not going to have you

get me any treats,

or anything like that.

Instead, I...

Instead...

you know, I didn't know

if you might want to...

might want to be my partner

at the...

...gift-wrapping contest.

Like, a date?

Uh...

...yeah, I mean,

I don't know--

well, yeah,

I could call it a date, or...

...or not, or...

Can I think about it?

Yeah. Yeah. Yeah.

Okay, I'm gonna just...

- catch up.

- Okay.

Everything okay, honey?

Yeah, yeah. Why?

Well, you've been twirling

that same piece of spaghetti

for 10 minutes.

Michael asked me on a date.

I mean, I think it was a date.

I don't know...

That's great!

Great?

From what we've heard,

he's an upstanding man.

He is.

He's a really nice guy.

But...

what about Greg?

So, what, am I just

supposed to forget him

and move on?

I don't think I can do that.

No one's asking you

to forget about Greg.

But he...

he would want you to be happy,

no matter what.

Yes.

I know that you are afraid

to open your heart again.

But if there's

a little part of you

that thinks maybe

it's time to try...

...maybe that's

what you should do.

One small step...

or a date...

at a time.

You still need a partner?

Oh, hey.

Yeah, I would...

I would love one.

So, what was your plan

if I didn't show?

My plan was,

I was gonna use each hand

to wrap each one of

these presents separately,

and then I thought,

you know, that's not good--

but anyway,

I thought it might work,

but obviously, it's not.

Now, listen, I knew

you were gonna come.

I knew you'd show up.

It's nice to see you laugh.

- So we're wrapping this?

- Yes.

How does one wrap a bicycle

without it looking ridiculous?

Well, you know,

it's an art form.

Don't worry. You'll catch on.

Just follow my lead.

All right wrappers,

are you ready?

- Yes!

- Yes!

Time is important,

but aesthetic is key.

These gifts will be donated

to the homeless shelter,

but our winners

will not go away empty-handed,

because you're playing for...

an all-expense-paid ski trip

to Murray's Lodge!

- Whoa!

- What?

Nice, huh?

Don't worry, when we win,

we'll go as friends.

When we win?

- Really?

- I like your confidence.

Well...

On your mark...

- Ready?

- All right.

...get set,

wrap!

There is old and new

this Christmas-time

As we race toward

the finish line

Like little elves

who know just what to do

All the hustle-bustle's

much more fun

'Cause you're by my side

to get it done

Gettin' all wrapped up

in Christmas with you!

If we hurry

We can get these gifts

on Santa's sleigh

The best part is

It's you I win

And we're laughing

all the way!

So when Old Saint Nick

asks what to bring

I've got to tell him

about my newest favorite thing

Gettin' all wrapped up

in Christmas with you!

And for the news

we've all been waiting for...

...the winners are...

...Michael and Traci!

As we're giving gifts away

I've got joy and cheer

this holiday!

Gettin' all wrapped up

in Christmas with you!

I felt so bad

for Richard and Maria.

Why?

Well, because they were

much faster than us, come on.

Don't feel bad for those two.

Come on, they've won it

the last 30 years in a row.

- What?

- Yeah. Yeah.

Not to mention, I think...

they're a little too proud,

by the way.

Thanks for coming

by the way.

I probably should be working,

but I'm...

I'm really glad I came.

It was fun.

- Yeah, it was, wasn't it?

- Yeah!

What do you say

we procrastinate

a little longer?

I'd say I'd love that.

It's a different kind

of beautiful at night, huh?

Melody loved

coming down here...

at night

and looking up at the stars.

Can I tell you about her?

Are you kidding?

I've been waiting weeks

for this moment.

Please.

Overpack for the hike?

Uh, yeah, yeah.

Yeah, that would--

that would be an understatement,

wouldn't it?

I've seen a lot of first-timers

make the same mistake.

Well, the funny thing is,

I think I brought everything,

I just think I forgot...

Water?

Yeah.

I have an extra one.

- Really?

- Yeah.

- Thank you so much.

- Take it.

Really? Thank you.

I think you just saved my life.

So, do you...

...you come here often?

I do.

It's my happy place.

I like to pray

as I look over the view.

Well, it definitely

is a stunning view, isn't it?

It is.

Listen...

I'm Michael, by the way.

Oh, I'm Melody.

- Nice to meet you.

- Nice to meet you.

So what do you...

what do you pray about?

- Today?

- Yeah.

The kids at the youth center.

Oh.

Every year, I deliver gifts

to make their spirits bright.

That's--

oh, no, you're Santa Claus!

You are!

You know, I've been wanting

to meet you

ever since I was a kid.

I've got to get your autograph?

Do you have a--

do I have a pen?

I've packed everything else.

You know, the season's

all about giving back.

Plus, giving is

my "love language".

Hmm.

I like that.

I think mine's pizza.

Funny guy.

I try.

No, seriously,

that's very admirable of you.

Thank you.

I've been blessed with a lot,

so...

I make it a habit

of blessing others.

Well, you certainly blessed me.

You know what, I'm glad we met.

Call this a happy coincidence.

I don't believe

in coincidences.

Okay... okay.

You know, after the accident,

they...

they found this ornament

in her car.

It was a gazebo, just like this.

And attached to it was a note.

It said "To Michael.

Merry Christmas."

I tell you, Traci...

If she didn't go

and buy that gazebo for me,

I swear

she'd still be here today.

Michael, you can't

think like that.

No. I do think like that.

Every single day.

It's like I can't let it go.

Look at me...

How sad is this?

Here I am,

a leader of

a grief-support group.

It's better than...

acting like everything's okay.

- Yeah.

- Yeah.

Oh...

not to make matters worse,

but when I opened the box...

the ornament was broken.

Maybe I can fix it.

If you want.

Wow.

I can tell you really know

your way around a canvas, huh?

I am... impressed.

That's the...

that's the last painting

we did together.

It's what we think

Heaven looks like.

And it's immune to criticism,

because...

it's up to interpretation, right?

Right.

Wow.

This is beautiful, huh?

May I?

Yeah.

You're not so bad.

Well, well.

Greg was always the...

Anyway...

...here you go.

It still has some tiny cracks,

but I think

it's part of the charm.

You know, it shows that...

things that are broken

can be made, you know,

somewhat whole again.

It's perfect.

Thank you.

Of course.

So you never learned

how to play?

No...

Okay, one song.

- Okay.

- Just one.

- All right.

- All right.

I'll give it a sh*t.

That's great!

- That's right.

- That's good!

That's really good.

We make a great team.

That's true.

Um...

I...

I think I should go.

- It's getting late.

- It is getting late, yeah.

But...

...thank you...

for this.

Goodnight, Traci.

Thank you.

Yeah, goodnight.

You know, as much as I love

having a newly-minted

expert wrapper

helping me with these,

shouldn't you

be getting back to work?

The gallery is in two days.

I'm merrily procrastinating.

And un-merrily

starting to lose confidence

in myself.

If your goal is...

trying to get people

to feel something,

maybe you should draw on

what you're feeling right now.

Well, it's

a real mixed bag, Mom.

Honestly, my...

...my heart

is just so conflicted.

You have grown so much

since you joined that group.

Maybe the final piece

of this puzzle

is...

opening your heart.

And that doesn't mean that

you have to forget about Greg.

Maybe drawing on

the memories of him

will help you.

God,

I feel lost...

...and I don't know what to do.

I pray...

that I am able to help people

feel something special

for Christmas.

Amen.

All right, I've got you.

Well, being home sure beats

that hospital room any day.

The doctor

is one phone call away,

I will be with you 24/7,

and...

your only job is to rest, okay?

Dance with me.

Did you not just hear

what I told you?

Come on.

After all,

we never know

how much time we have left,

so we have to live each moment

like it's our last.

We are going to have

so many of these moments.

Decades more.

Traci, I need you

to promise me something.

Anything.

Never stop laughing,

and never stop loving.

And never stop living.

Okay?

The world waits

for a miracle

Oh, come...

Emmanuel

Traci! Come in!

Thank you!

What are you doing here?

And what are you wearing?

I know I look ridiculous,

but they said

they also need an elf.

What are you talking about?

The Christmas market

needs a Mrs. Claus,

and I told them I know someone

with years of experience.

Maybe all you need to do

is take one step.

Just try it on,

see if it fits?

Okay...

Okay!

It fits like a glove.

You are rocking that!

But I don't think

I can do this on my own.

Well, you'll have

your trusty elf

right by your side.

I'll be with you in just a sec.

Nothing's changed a bit.

Dad...

What are you doing here?

A friend of yours

left a box of Nai Nai's sweets

at my doorstep.

It's been so long

since I've tried them...

...but I'm glad I did.

You made them?

I did.

They taste just like hers.

So why'd you ask me

to meet you here?

I just wanted to celebrate

your courage

for sharing the other day.

How does it feel?

Like my soul is healing.

I know she's still with me.

You know...

open mic's about to start.

And I just so happened...

to reserve the first slot.

You wanna give it a sh*t?

I think I can do it.

I came to apologize.

No. Whoa.

No, no. You don't--

you don't have to do that, Dad.

It was a hard time

for all of us,

and we all grieve differently.

I was angry,

and I took it out on you.

It wasn't fair...

and I'm sorry.

If my mother taught me

anything at all,

it is that there is

nothing more important in life

than family.

You have no idea

how much it means

to hear you say that.

The first Noel

The Angels did say

Was to certain poor shepherds

in fields as they lay

In fields where they

lay keeping their sheep

On a cold winter's night

that was so deep

Noel, Noel

Noel... Noel

Born is the King of Israel!

Whoo!

Hey, Joyce.

Yeah!

I...

I think you're gonna like

what I've been working on--

and it will be done

just in time for the gallery.

I just have...

one more thing left to do.

Hey.

Hey.

Happy Anniversary.

Traci...

what are you doing here?

Well, I thought it was strange

that you weren't returning

any of my calls.

Right.

And then I remembered...

that it was December 23rd.

Yeah.

The day we first met...

...and the day we got married.

I hope I'm not intruding.

I just wanted to make sure

you were okay.

No, no, no.

Not intruding at all.

- Okay.

- Thank you.

Yeah.

You know what...

...I'm okay.

Every year,

I bring a flower up here

to remember her.

Listen, Traci,

about the other night...

No, no, no. We do not need

to talk about that.

Today is about you and Melody.

I was sitting here,

and I was thinking...

...I am so grateful

for all the years

that we spent together...

...and from now on, that's...

that's what I vow to hold on to.

It's hard.

It's really hard.

For some reason,

this year, I just--

I don't know, I just feel...

...more at peace.

Sounds like healing to me.

- Yeah.

- Yeah.

That's incredible.

That's incredible, isn't it?

I mean, we have made

a ton of progress

these past few weeks.

I have a feeling

you're talking about

more than just the tree.

Um, well,

your feeling's correct, I am.

So, what do you say

we get started?

Is Traci coming?

Actually, I don't think so.

I think she's really busy

with her art show.

- I should have canceled--

- Sorry I'm late!

- Hey!

- Hi!

- Merry Christmas!

- Merry Christmas!

Merry Christmas!

I waited until

the last possible minute

to invite you to this--

but it's probably because

I waited till

the last possible minute

to finish my art.

Your gallery exhibit? Tonight?

Yes!

And I would love

for you to stop by,

if you can,

no pressure.

- But there will be cookies.

- I'm there.

- Me too!

- You had me at "cookies".

I wouldn't miss it.

I wouldn't.

We're all going.

We're there.

So, while we're all here,

why don't I open things up?

Yeah, actually...

What?

Can I open things up tonight?

- Yeah.

- Yeah.

I'd be honored.

Okay. Okay.

I'm a little rusty,

but here we go.

Dear God...

...in the last two years,

I've...

often thought that my prayers

weren't being answered...

...and now I know

that they were answered...

...just not in the way

I expected.

You led me to this group.

Thank you so much

for the gift of new friendships.

And I ask you, God,

just to bless every person...

in this group tonight...

...and continue to heal us...

...with Your peace,

love,

and joy.

Amen.

Amen!

You weren't rusty at all!

Thank you.

I learned from the best.

Best seats in the house.

Hi, everyone!

Merry Christmas.

Merry Christmas!

As many of you know,

the last couple of years

have been...

really hard.

I, um...

almost gave up

on my art completely.

But that would have been taking

the easy way out.

So I decided to take

the hard road...

...and open my heart,

and the creativity followed.

That never...

would have been possible

without the love and support

of my Mom and Dad,

and my friends...

...who are all here tonight.

Each and every one of you

inspired me to seek hope...

...and love...

and joy...

...even in life's

toughest moments.

This is dedicated to them.

Now I would love to present...

..."Hearts of Healing".

Look, I'm wearing

my Mrs. Claus outfit!

- And there's little Presley!

- Adorable!

Is that

the quadruple-chocolate donut?

It is!

I want to thank you all

for joining us tonight.

The theme for this year's

Christmas Eve service

is "Holding on

while letting go".

Now, I'm sure

there's some of you here

that have lost someone

close to you...

...and I urge you to look around

and realize

that you're not alone.

By lighting these balloons,

we signify

that the ones

that we've lost in our lives

will always remain...

...in our hearts.

But before we do,

I'd like to take a moment.

I'd like all of us to...

say a prayer,

recall a memory...

hold them in your heart.

Now...

as we release these balloons

into the sky,

I'd like all of us

to celebrate them...

...as we let them go.

Are you ready?

- Yes.

- Yeah.

Whoo...

Three...

two...

one.

Silent Night

Holy night

All is calm

All is bright

Round yon virgin

Mother and child...

That was beautiful.

Holy infant so...

I have to ask you something.

Okay?

Can you teach me

to paint sometime?

Even after I ruined your shirt?

Oh, yeah, yeah.

That's right.

You did scar me there.

- I know.

- A little bit, but...

Yeah.

You know what...

...I think I'm ready

to move forward.

And we can take it slow...

...just one small step

at a time.

That's right.

Merry Christmas, Traci.

Merry Christmas, Michael.

Holy infant

so tender and mild

Sleep in heavenly peace...

Sleep in heavenly peace
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