Good Evening Alcott Grove!
D.J. Bob, the music man here.
Just ten days 'til
Christmas, and
do we have a
treat for you tonight.
Grab some hot cocoa, throw on
your fuzzy socks,
and get ready for the sweet,
wonderful harmony
of our very own Grove Crooner's
Barbershop live in our
downtown W.A.G. studio.
Deck the halls with
boughs of holly
Fa-la-la-la-la
-la-la-la-la
'Tis the season to
be jolly
Fa-la-la-la-
la-la-la-la-la
Don we now our
gay apparel
Fa-la-la-la-
la-la-la-la-la
Troll the ancient
yule-tide carol
Fa-la-la-la-
la-la-la-la-la
Fa-la-la-la-
la-la-la-la-la
Fa-la-la-la-
la-la-la-la-la
Merry Christmas.
Jo March here to see
Susanna Gardner
Susanna's expecting you,
you can head on in.
Mrs. Gardner? Jo March.
I know who you are Jo,
please have a seat.
And call me Susanna.
It's very nice to
meet you in person Susanna.
Oh believe me the honor
is all mine.
When I took over the
publisher's job
here at Orchard House,
I inherited our roster
of talented authors
but yours was the name that
just popped off the page.
I cannot count the number
of times that I read
one of your Alexandra's
Adventures books
to my grandkids.
Well that's so nice of you to
say. Thank you.
And then during our merger,
when I learned that
you were rebranding
yourself as a young adult
author, well, I was thrilled.
Uh, rebranding
is a little strong.
I just want to keep
challenging myself
to grow as an author and
explore fresh ideas,
so I can keep my
readers engaged
as they grow out of
Alexandra's Adventures.
Yeah, and that's good. We
totally support that.
True creatives are always
pushing themselves,
never content to stay within
their comfort zone.
Which brings us to the
latest draft of your new book.
So, what's the verdict? What do
you think of the story?
Technically, it's all there.
Your prose and penchant
for description,
as always, impeccable.
But...?
It's missing that
special Jo March
heart that my grandchildren
and countless other children
have fallen in love with.
Jo, you have always
had a gift of
sparking your young
reader's imaginations.
I've seen you do it time and
time again with Alexandra.
We are just asking
that you give us that
same sense of wonder,
but to a slightly
older audience.
This draft feels remote. The
emotions don't feel authentic.
Oh, um... this has
been the first time
writing for the teen audience,
you know, trauma,
friendship, heartbreak.
Everything's always changing
in their world,
but if you just give
me your notes,
I'm sure I can deliver
what you need.
Actually, I don't think
my notes would
be very productive Jo.
What do you mean?
I want you to find a new story.
I've shared this with the
Publishers Board,
and they agree.
They would like for you to
start over. A page one rewrite.
Wow, um, that's,
that's disappointing.
The board is looking at the
lineup for the new year,
and they're very eager to shed
some of their older book deals
that they've inherited from the
former editorial team.
What do you mean shed?
Jo, I want you to thrive,
but unfortunately,
the clock is ticking.
And to be frank, I will need a
new proof of concept
to bring to the board right
after the first of the year.
Two weeks? Oh, that's
impossible.
I'm flying home in the
morning for Christmas.
A family tradition.
Well, maybe that's exactly
what you need.
Go visit your family,
have some eggnog,
open up a pair
of holiday socks.
Hey, who knows?
Maybe you'll even get a kiss
under the ole mistletoe.
Look, I love my hometown,
but I'm not sure
Alcott Grove, Tennessee
is where I'm going to find the
next great young adult idea.
Try tapping into your own
teenage years and experiences.
Memories are the banquet table
of the imagination.
Well, my growing up years
were as safe, warm,
and uneventful as a
Norman Rockwell painting.
Now, try to enjoy
your Christmas
and then write
like the wind Jo.
Shut the door.
You didn't have any
Christmas plans, did you?
Actually, a ski trip
with some friends.
Any chance you can put those on
hold for a few days?
I wouldn't ask if
it weren't important.
Why? What's going on?
Did you see the author that
just left my office?
No.
It was Jo March.
The kid's author? My nephews
love her books.
Yeah, she was one of the old
publisher's favorites as well,
but she's trying to
rebrand herself
as a Y.A. writer, and
she's really struggling
to find her voice.
I need you to find out why.
She live in the city? I can set
up a meeting.
Small problem with that.
Jo's heading home
for the holidays.
Video call then.
I was thinking more along the
lines of a house call.
A what?
I'm going to make you
editor on this project,
and I need you to do
what an editor does
best for an author.
Mentor her. Help her
find her spark.
Book a flight to Tennessee,
see if you can't help
her get past
this little creative
impasse she's at.
Sure. Yeah, no problem.
She'll love that.
I mean, I've always
dreamed that
my editor would show
up unannounced
while I'm on vacation.
Look, I know this is highly
unconventional Fritz,
and that the timing could
not be more inconvenient,
but if Miss March does not nail
down her next proof of concept,
sadly, her relationship with
Orchard House is over.
Man, this new publishing
board is ruthless.
It is what it is, and we are
what we are.
Good editors bring good
books to market,
and as nice as that
young lady is,
the new owners of this house
will not coddle her
or us if we don't bring some
books to some bestseller list.
So what do you think, Fritz?
Can you help Jo March cross the
finish line?
I hear Tennessee is beautiful
this time of year.
Check your advent calendars
Alcott Grove
because there is just nine days
till Christmas here
at W.A.G. Radio
So good to hear your
voice again, D.J. Bob
And if you're still looking
for some good Christmas deals,
don't forget to stop by
Philanthropy Gifts,
our town's finest boutique
shopping experience.
Jo's here!
Beth, I've missed you.
You too, sis.
Everyone's made it home for
Christmas this year.
Meg and Daisy just got in from
Florida last night.
I miss this place.
Where are all the decorations?
Don't tell me Mom didn't
do her thing
before the missions trip.
No. While they're off building
homes in Mexico,
they thought the four sisters
could have fun
putting up everything
this year.
We were just waiting
for our most
imaginative sister to arrive.
Oh, Joy.
Oh, speaking of, how's the
novel coming along?
I bet it's brilliant.
Jo!
Oh Amy. How are you holding up
without Mom and Dad?
Why does everyone keep
asking me that?
Just because I'm the baby
of the family doesn't mean
I don't know how to
take care of myself.
Sorry Ames. Forgot
you're already 25.
And three quarters.
And besides, while Mom and Dad
have been gone,
Beth has been living back
home the last month.
No, only temporarily.
Mom and Dad didn't want
Amy to be lonely
while they were away.
Who could be lonely when
Laurie shows up
every night for dinner?
So how are you and young
Theodore Laurence doing?
He's the love of my life.
I'm so happy for you,
for the both of you.
Aunt Josie!
Daisy! How's my favorite niece?
How can I be your favorite
niece if I'm your only niece?
And smart as a whip too.
Daisy, come help me
find my iPad.
Okay.
Hey.
Oh my gosh. Hi, big sis.
I missed you so
much, Josephine.
How was your flight?
Hell, you know,
airports are crazy.
Yeah.
But it was totally
worth it to get out
of the rat race and
see you all.
Especially that little ladybug.
Hey, listen, we heard about
you and Landon. So sorry, Jo.
Are you okay?
Yeah, it's fine.
You know, we were just going in
different directions
and it's better for
my mental health.
Yeah, but still hurts.
And listen, you know,
we are so proud of you.
It's important to take
care of your heart.
Yeah.
How is Florida, Meg?
Ha, well, the army base isn't
Alcott Grove, but...
Gosh, we just miss
you so much.
You know, sometimes I just wish
we had a time machine,
and we could go back to when we
all lived here together.
Me too.
When's John get in?
Hopefully, the next few days.
He's just been going
from base to base
in the Middle East for the
last six months, and
fingers crossed that his boss
will give him his
Christmas leave
sooner than later.
And I can't wait to see Daddy.
Okay, enough.
Mom and Dad sent me a
video they wanted us
all to watch as soon
as Jo got in.
The volunteer team is
building five houses
and a health clinic in
a needy village,
and on their days off, they
even get to explore Ensenada.
Oh, and they saw the
Peach Boys in concert.
The Peach Boys?
Yeah. Apparently the best cover
band south of the border.
I think.
No, no, no right there.
I think it's going.
I think it's going.
Okay.
Merry Christmas!
We really wish we could
be there to help celebrate,
but when Pastor Henderson
asked us to
lead the winter missions trip,
we thought we couldn't say
no to God's calling.
So, it looks like our little
women will be celebrating
Christmas without us this year.
We know it's a new
experience for everyone,
but don't worry, there are
frozen casseroles
that you can pop into the oven.
And plus, I made a list of
everything you will need
for the Christmas Eve dinner.
Right. Right. Along with
instructions to
my world famous
outdoor lighting display.
Now, look, Amy, I know that
Laurie is going to
be eager to want to help,
but please don't let
him hang too
many strings
on one circuit.
Alcott Grove doesn't need a
Christmas blackout.
Again.
But we know you will pull off
the most magical Christmas ever
because you girls are a
knot of four strands
that can never be broken,
and we are so proud of you.
We love you.
Goodbye, darlings.
Merry Christmas!
So what're we waiting for?
Amy that's the top section, the
middle section goes next.
What? It fits perfectly.
What no! Look at
the diagram, okay?
The middle section goes
right after the base.
What you're doing, it messes
up the symmetry.
Doesn't that bother you
a little as an artist?
Well, it depends on what look
you're going for.
Traditional Christmas tree,
that's the look we're
going for okay?
Old fashioned it is.
It has to be in here somewhere.
Here it is.
Guys, remember,
I used to always love
when Mom put that
up every year.
Yeah, we did.
Hey, Laurie.
Is that Josephine March I see?
Laurie. Man, so
nice to see you.
You too. Sorry I'm late.
Lunch rush down at the deli,
and I apologize for the sweet
smell of cured meats
but it's proof this
man is working
to pay off his college loans.
I love that you're such
a hard worker.
Hey, look at this.
You know, your Aunt Amy drew
that when she was five years
old.
It's so good.
Yeah it is. She's always been
the true artist in the family.
Well, thank you, but that might
be a slight exaggeration.
Oh, that reminds me.
Did you hear back
from the art schools
you applied to?
Um, still waiting.
You know, maybe I'll hear back
after the holidays,
or maybe I won't.
Doesn't matter.
Well I'm sticking with
my prediction.
They all accept you,
and there's a
bidding w*r for
your admission.
Mom, what's that smell?
That's smoke.
Oh no! No, no, no, no, no, no.
So much for casseroles.
Never can beat a pizza pie
from Grunelli's.
Jo, you were starting to tell
us about your new book earlier.
It's a Y.A. novel.
Y.A., like yield analysis?
Yield analysis?
Yeah. I learned about it in
my economics class.
It's how a company evaluates
quality and efficiency.
You all know how much I love a
good database nonfiction book.
I can always count on
you to impress us
with your depth
of knowledge.
Y.A. means young adult, you
know, like teen fiction.
Oh! Another excellent book
genre. That's exciting, Jo.
Jo, has it been hard to pivot
genres like that?
Seems a lot different than
writing kids books.
I love Alexandra's Adventures.
Yeah, me to.
It's definitely a
challenge, but
you all know how I love
me a challenge.
Oh yes. We all remember your
high school graduation speech.
"Life may have challenges,
but you always have
the three P's available.
Passion, persistence,
and pizza."
It's cold out, folks.
No snow yet, but
D.J. Bob's going to
keep the Christmas
hits rolling.
And how about a
local celebrity sighting?
Word is famed author Alcott
Grove's very own
Jo March is back from New York
to celebrate the season
with her family.
Keep your eyes peeled for Jo
March typing her next
masterpiece at her favorite
writing spot,
the Stable Reserve.
Thank you, D.J. Bob.
Ah, squeezing work into
every free moment.
I have to. My publisher
wants me to finish
this project by the new year.
Sounds fun. Can I see
what you have so far?
Oh, you know how I like to let
my words marinate
before I share them with
the people I love. - I'm sorry.
So what was with the weirdness
earlier between you and Amy?
What do you mean?
Well, you got
a little defensive
about moving back home.
No, I just, I didn't want
to make a big
deal about it, is all.
You know how I like
my independence.
Everything okay at the school?
Music Teacher of the Year.
It's my dream job.
I just... things um, always
slow down
over winter break,
so I thought while
I'm here keeping tabs on Amy,
I'd volunteer at the Hummel
House Youth Center.
I love that about you.
You're always looking
for an opportunity
to speak into kids lives.
Is Ben Kirke still directing
the drop-in center?
Mmhmm.
Aunt Beth, I'm ready for
my bedtime story.
I've been summoned.
Taking Dad's car to town.
Hi.
What can I get for you?
Just a black coffee. Thank you.
Black coffee. Simple man.
It's you.
Hi. Do we know each other?
Uh-- Coffee. Just black.
Thank you.
You know, I've been
coming here for years,
and I've never heard
anyone order
just a black coffee before.
Yeah. I, uh,
I'm not a big fan of
the fancy flavored
sugary sprinkly drinks,
you know?
There's nothing better than
the bold notes of a
straight from
the bean brew.
Fascinating.
Jo here's your 4 pump pumpkin
spice cappuccino
with cinnamon sprinkles
topped off with
oat milk foam top.
Thank you, Sally.
You're welcome.
I love my sugary sparkly
drink so much.
Can you add a to-go cup?
Yeah, sure.
So, Mr. Bold Notes you were
going to explain
how you knew me.
Right. My name is Friedrich.
People call me Fritz.
Josephine. People call me Jo.
Jo March, as I live
and breathe.
Pastor Henderson,
how good to see you.
Likewise. I heard
D.J. Bob on the radio
talking about you being
back in town.
Listen, I'm so glad
you came home.
I wouldn't dream of spending
Christmas anywhere else.
Is this the Landon
that your parents
have been going
on and on about?
Uh, no. In fact, we went our
separate ways several
months ago.
Oh, I'm sorry to hear that.
This is Fritz.
We actually just met
totally by chance,
completely out of the blue,
barely even said hello.
Okay.
Fritz Baehr.
All right. Nice to
meet you Fritz.
Now, what brings
you to Alcott Grove?
I'm a travel writer. I like to
visit small towns.
So I thought I'd spend
a few days here
and see how you guys
celebrate Christmas.
Well, you came to
the right place.
We like to do Christmas up
here, so I think you'll,
you'll love that.
Jo, I need to know,
are the March sisters
going to make an
appearance at this year's
Christmas Eve service?
We wouldn't miss it.
That service has
been a tradition
in this town for
over a century.
Love to have you too Fritz.
Thank you. Thank you.
I don't know how
long I'll be in town,
but if I am here, I'd love to.
Okay. Well, it was
good to see you both,
and hopefully I'll see
you soon. God bless you.
So you're a writer?
Writer. Editor.
I've been editing to
pay the bills.
I'm a writer, too. Children's
books, mostly.
Right. That's how I
know you, Jo March.
I've read some of your
books to my nephews.
You recognize me from
the headshot
on the sleeve of my books?
Yeah. You know, pretty
good with faces.
You know, I could use
someone to show me
around town for
the travel story.
We could talk writing since
we both have that in common.
What do you say?
Um, you know, I'm kind of
crazed right now,
up against a hard deadline.
Right.
Yeah.
Understood. No. No problem.
But it was so nice to meet you.
Got to go. Bye.
Nice to meet you, Jo.
Okay.
New story concept.
What are you guys doing?
March Sisters Christmas
shopping trip.
I was getting some
writing done.
You get to do that the
rest of the year.
This is the one time of
year that we get you, and
as mom always says we are a
sister knot of four strands.
Not easily broken.
Fine. Not easily broken.
Buckle up.
I think so.
Jo.
Fritz, oh hey.
Hey. How are you?
You enjoying town?
I am.
Hi Ken.
Jo, who's your friend?
Oh no, he's not.
He's just a travel writer
passing through town.
You must be one of
the March sisters.
Yes, I am one of them.
So tell me a little
bit about yourself.
You got a wife or a girlfriend?
No, I'm just here by myself.
If you're writing a
story about Alcott Grove,
nobody knows our town's
history better than Jo.
No, no. There are plenty
of other people.
Stop. You are the
perfect person
to show Fritz the sights.
You know, I was just
suggesting that yesterday.
Absolutely not. No way.
I mean, I already
explained to Fritz
that I'm up against
a hard deadline.
Oh Jo, you have two weeks to
finish your story.
Come on, show this man
some Alcott Grove hospitality.
Well, it seems
I've been overruled
by the executive sisterhood.
I'll show you around
town on one condition.
Alright.
If you end up writing a story,
you have to
run it by me before
it goes to print.
No offense. I just need
to make sure
we're not part of some
clickbait piece.
Well, I would never write
something like that, but um...
deal.
Stable Reserve in an hour?
I'll see you there.
When were you ever
going to tell us
you met that handsome writer?
Never. Shh, he's going
to hear you.
I see you've already finished
your blended candy bar with a
whisper of coffee.
Are you one of those guys that
writes jokes ahead of time
and rehearses them?
No, I'm usually in the moment,
but I did come up with that one
after we first met.
In case I had the good fortune
of running into you again.
Speaking of coffee,
I think that
they have a big urn of
flavorless black
behind the counter.
No, I'm all good.
I got my caffeine
boost this morning.
I'm all amped up and
ready for the big tour.
Follow me.
Yes, ma'am.
So how are you feeling about
your deadline?
Honestly, I wish I didn't have
it hanging over my head.
I worked really hard to get it
in before Christmas break,
and now I got to start all over
with a new concept.
Why do you want to know?
I'm just making conversation.
What book are you working on?
It's a young adult novel.
That's your first one, right?
How'd you know that?
I might have Googled you.
Your "Writer's World" profile
only mentioned
children's books,
not young adult novels.
It's okay, I might've Googled
you too. Friedrich Bhaer.
Although, I only found your
travel bylines
from five years ago.
Yeah. You know, after
knocking around
the world for so many years,
I kind of had to get a day job
to make ends meet.
The freelance life.
-Yeah
Well, at least you're getting
back on the horse.
You're a really good writer.
Wow. Thank you.
That's high praise
coming from someone with
such devoted fans,
including my nephews,
which reminds me,
I'm gonna need a selfie with
you before I leave town.
Thank you. So, according to
your "Writer's World" wiki,
your research is
taking you mountain
climbing in Europe
and surfing in Latin America?
Asia, too, and Africa,
but I haven't updated
my profile in years.
Okay, continent-dropper.
Here I am just a simple
country peasant
who's intrigued you
with my rustic charm.
I didn't mean it like that.
Alright, here's one
of our spots.
Not to burst your
bubble or anything,
but I think it's closed.
Wow. Keen observation
skills journalist.
What's the occasion?
So Louisa May, the owner
of The Merc,
closes down the
restaurant to provide
free brunch to veterans and
first responders.
It all started about 15 years
ago when Louisa's family
lost her brother, Garrett, who
was serving in the Middle East.
As you can imagine, it hit the
family very hard.
Hey, Charlie.
So they started a program to
honor Garrett's memory
and serve those who
serve the rest of us.
That's incredible.
And not just at Christmas.
They do it every week.
Well, you know, my dad
served when I was a kid
Marines. Semper Fi.
Always faithful.
I can see how this must mean a
lot to the community.
It does. People come from all
over, not just in town.
Jo March!
Louisa!
I heard you were back. I didn't
think I'd see you today.
I wanted to show my new friend
Fritz around town,
and what it means to
live in Alcott Grove.
Well, welcome Fritz.
Thank you.
Grab some spatulas.
Okay. Yeah, sure. Yeah.
I can make a
pretty mean flapjack.
Wonderful. Come on.
Hi.
I told you, I make a
pretty mean flapjack.
Thanks for volunteering me.
I think you're really going to
like this place.
Good job Nora. Keep going,
I'll be right back.
I didn't know Hummel
House would be one
of the stops on your walkabout.
Yeah, I thought it'd be nice to
show Fritz the drop-in center.
I didn't know you'd be here.
Oh yeah, I have a few lessons
lined up this afternoon.
Trying to give at least a few
hours to the kids every day.
Fritz, meet my sister, Beth.
Jo's very younger sister.
How funny.
Well, it's nice
to meet you, Beth.
So what happens here at
the Hummel House?
Well, this used to be the
parsonage for the
pastor of the Alcott Grove
Community Church.
At the pastor's house, you
know, a long time ago,
but back in the 70s,
I think, they
converted it to an
after school center for
the kids in town.
Some are marginalized,
some in the system,
some foster kids. But, um,
all are welcome.
Welcome home, Jo.
Good to have you.
Hey. Ben Kirke,
director of the Center.
Ben. Good to meet you.
Fritz Baehr.
What brings you to our little
corner of the world, Fritz?
Well, I'm researching a
possible travel story on
how small towns
celebrate Christmas,
and Jo is helping me fall in
love with Alcott Grove.
Well, the March family's
been here forever.
They know everything
about this town.
Not everything.
So it looks like the
Hummel House
has been putting Beth's
talents to work.
Oh, she'll never admit it, but
she's a rock star.
My assistant moved out
of state last month.
I literally wouldn't be
able to keep
this place going without her.
Rock star with a
heart of gold and
humble all at the same time.
Okay. We're not narrating a
documentary here.
If only you could stick around
'til after Christmas.
Your middle school students are
lucky to have you.
What will we do without you?
So, Ben, how did you
end up director here?
Let me, let me show you around.
So I was a foster kid growing
up, so I came here a lot.
After college, I
started volunteering,
and the previous director, she
offered me the role,
and I can't imagine
doing anything else.
Sounds like you do
amazing work here, Ben.
She's a natural.
Oh, you should also
hear her sing.
She just needs a little help
with her confidence.
Huh, reminds me of
someone else I know.
Thanks for the tour. This
community is amazing.
So you don't need
to research any
other small towns
for your piece?
No, I think I see everything
I need right here.
Alcott Grove is perfect.
Well, I should get some more
writing done in the morning,
but there is a few other places
that you need to see.
Why don't you come by the
house tomorrow around noon,
and we can drive together?
Okay. Yeah. Sounds good.
There you go.
Hey, Jo.
Yeah.
I, uh...
Noon's perfect.
That'll give me the
morning to have
a call with my publisher.
Brrrr!
Better put on an
ugly sweater, folks,
because I can sense these
clouds want to give us
a flurry or two.
Either way, bundle up
by that fire and enjoy
an evening with your loved ones
Hey, Jo.
Getting some writing in?
Trying to at least.
You heard anything from John?
He was supposed
to arrive today,
but last I heard from him that
he was going to be
delayed a couple more days.
Starting to get
a little nervous.
Hey, he's going to do everything
he
can to be here in time.
You sound like Daisy.
That girl sees no possibility
other than her daddy
walking straight
through that door.
What in the world
is that sound?
That's just Laurie.
He volunteered to
put up the lights.
At night?
He said he wanted
us to experience
the full effect of the lights
turning on for the first time.
So tell us everything about
your day touring the town
with Mr. Tall, Handsome
and Single.
Stop. Okay. He seems like he's
actually a decent guy.
Ooh!
What, are you annoyed that we
sort of played matchmaker?
Sort of?
What?
Hey girls. Come outside. You'll
want to see this.
What are we waiting
on Clark Griswold?
Ha, ha. I want us
all to be together
when I hit the switch. Okay?
Alright, let's do this.
One, two, three!
Really? Okay.
Are you sure you hooked
everything up right?
Yeah. I mean, I checked your
dad's diagram down to a T.
I double checked it, I triple
checked it. Let me see.
Yeah. This looks. Yeah.
I am so proud of
you Theodore Laurence.
"Fantastic night?"
I sound like my dad.
Hey Susanna.
How's it going Fritz?
You know how I
wasn't too thrilled
delaying my Christmas ski trip?
Well, Alcott Grove is starting
to grow on me.
I told you it wasn't going
to be so bad.
How's Jo doing?
Honestly, I didn't mean for
this to happen,
but I've made it a little
awkward for myself.
I haven't figured out a
way to tell her
who I really am or
why I'm here.
Why is that?
Well, back when I was
freelancing, I had this editor
that hounded me day and night.
"How's the article coming? Do
you have enough sources?
Are you still going to
hit the deadline."
You know, stuff like that.
It's stressful, exhausting,
and frankly,
it made my writing worse.
So let me get this straight.
You're worried that you're
going to mentor
all the creativity
right out of her?
Yeah, something like that.
Okay. You can approach this
however you see fit,
but I don't see how you can
possibly help her if
you're not honestly
representing yourself.
Especially with the
clock ticking
on her future with
this company.
I know. I know.
Jo's been showing me
around Alcott Grove,
and it's, uh, well
it's inspiring
me to put my travel writer hat
back on again.
Okay you need to remember why
you're there Fritz.
It's not for you.
It's to help Jo rediscover
her inspiration.
Please tell me that you're
keeping this
strictly professional.
Absolutely. It's just,
you know, the more
I get to know her
I sort of relate to
where she's at.
Kindred spirits?
Right.
Writers.
I just don't want to see her
get hurt. She's a good person.
Well, of course she is. And the
best way that you can
protect her is to make sure
she comes up with
that proof of concept.
Do not get distracted from your
duties as her editor.
I won't.
Daisy, daddy's calling!
Yay!
Hi, Daddy.
Hi honey.
Hey. Hey, sweethearts.
Hey, it is so good
to see your faces.
I miss you, Daddy.
Yeah, well, guess what? I miss
you more, baby girl.
Hey, how's it been spending
time with your aunties?
Fun.
When are you coming home for
Christmas, Daddy?
Well, just as soon
as I am able.
Okay?
But Christmas is in six days.
D.J. Bob on the radio said so.
Well, he's not wrong.
Good old D.J. Bob, huh?
Where would the world
be without him?
Daisy, why don't
you go help set
up the nativity scene?
Okay, Mom.
Bye, Daddy.
Love you, sweet girl.
I love you, too.
So how's the schedule
really looking?
Well, with everything going on
in the world right now,
they've really pulled up the
timeline on these Rangers.
They just want them
ready to go
in case any ops
become necessary.
And they're supposed to be
prioritizing officers
with families for leave,
but I'm not going to
sugarcoat it Meg.
It's not looking good for me to
be home by Christmas Eve.
Meg? Hey, baby, listen.
Trust me, I would trade
anything in the world
to be with you two right now.
I know my captain.
You know, this is the
life of service
we're committed to, and
I'm so proud of you.
We both are.
Just wish you could be
two places at once.
Yeah, me too. Love you, Meg.
I love you more, John.
So, Jo, who
is this international
man of mystery
I've been hearing about?
His name is Fritz.
Interesting name.
Does that mean
you and Landon...?
Oh no. Landon's
ancient history.
Well, I think it's great you're
seeing someone new.
I'm not seeing anyone. I just
met him a couple of days ago.
Well, except that's him here to
pick you up for
your date, right?
It's not a date, and...
no one say anything.
Don't say anything.
What did I miss?
Hey.
Hi. Uh...
Hi!
Hi? Bye.
Fritz, right? That Swedish?
Um, German.
Short for Friedrich.
Ich verstehe.
Two years of German
in high school.
My name is Theodore Laurence,
but the world knows me by my
childhood nickname, Laurie.
Ah, right Laurie's short for
Laurence, right?
You got it.
It's good to meet you, Laurie.
Likewise.
Okay good,
introductions complete.
Time to go without further
commentary from anyone else.
Okay. Come on.
What was that?
Who?
Sorry about that
back at the house.
Sorry about what?
Our own brand of March Madness.
You didn't notice
my family members
being overly concerned
about my life?
You know, every
family has their
little quirks, but I can
definitely see the love
you have for each other, too.
You know, ever since Meg got
married, she's the oldest,
my sisters and now
Laurie seem a little
annoyingly concerned
about my love life
as if I'm next in line.
Well, you know, I
totally get it.
My mom passed away a few years
ago from a heart condition.
I'm sorry.
Thank you.
But before she passed,
every time I'd come
home from a trip,
she'd tap her watch and say
"Life's too short to
go at it alone."
She made me promise to
settle down one day.
And I've come close a
couple of times.
She also warned me not
to settle for the wrong person.
That's good advice.
You know, I can tell the March
sisters are very close.
To be honest, makes me
kind of envious.
My brother and I aren't that
close in age,
so I don't get to see him or my
nephews all that often.
Yeah, we are really close. My
mom calls us a sister knot.
Sister knot?
Yeah. Like a four stranded rope
knotted in the middle.
Two strands are
stronger than one.
Three strands are
stronger than two
and four strands makes
that knot unbreakable.
It comes from the wisdom
of King Solomon.
You know I love that, actually.
I hope you put that in your
young adult novel.
Oh, the book I'm writing is
fiction, not biographical.
Well, if you ever do write that
book. I'd love to read it.
Okay.
So I took you to Hummel House,
this is the place that
gave birth to it.
The Congregational Church
has been around
since the early 1900s.
The founding pastor was a
traveling pastor named
Harold Alcott,
passing through town and
felt called to stay.
So the town is named after him?
Exactly.
And then one Christmas, during
the Spanish flu pandemic,
the people in town were
too sick to leave their home,
so Reverend Alcott hitched up
his wagon and got food
and supplies and medicine
to all their homes
and prayed over all
the family members.
Risking his own health.
And on his way back
to the church,
he got caught up in
some heavy fog.
He didn't have great eyesight.
He started to panic, and
in the distance he
saw a faint light,
and it turns out his wife,
Ruby, lit candles in all of
the church windows, hoping it
would lead him home,
and it did.
A little Christmas miracle.
You know, you have a great
memory for details.
Well, I did an essay on
it in high school.
But that's why the
Christmas Eve service
means so much to us.
You know, the light of faith led
him home the same
way it does to all
of us each year.
I love that.
I'm definitely including
that in my story
if I ever get to write it.
You know, the pastor's
invite still stands.
You should come if
you're still in town.
You know, I've already made up
my mind about that.
I'm staying right here.
Promise.
You're catching the
Alcott Grove Christmas spirit.
Hey. Whatcha up to sweet heart?
Making a Christmas picture.
- Oh.
Well, that is so
beautiful, Daisy.
It's a special
surprise for Dad.
What are the angel wings for?
They're how he's going
to get home.
What's the hug for mommy?
Oh, hugs don't need reasons.
Just so proud of how sweet and
thoughtful you are.
Hey.
How did I get so lucky
to have a daughter like you?
I don't know, maybe God had
something to do with it.
Yeah.
Yeah, I bet he did.
Auntie Beth, Auntie Beth.
Can I play, too?
Of course, Daisy, absolutely.
Take your right hand
here in the middle.
Good.
Here, here, here. We hosting a
dinner party tonight?
No, but we have
an infestation of
four grown adults eating
here and we
keep running out
of everything.
I'm sorry. I will talk
to Beth and Meg,
see if we can help with
some of the shopping.
Take some of the stress off.
Sorry for venting.
It's just so much going on.
So many decisions to make.
Decisions, like what?
Uh, I don't know why I said
that. Forget it.
Is it something to
do with Laurie?
Yes and no.
Well, you know, keeping it to
yourself is not
how we do things
around here.
Goes against the sister rules.
I got into the art
school in Chicago.
I haven't told everyone yet,
or anyone.
You're the first.
Why keep this a secret? I'm so
excited. This is so big.
Okay.
Because what
happens with Laurie?
I mean, I mean, we're in such a
good place together, and it's
such a big change.
He's not going to want
to follow me to Chicago.
Have you asked him yet?
No.
Just be honest with him.
If you two love each other and
it's pretty apparent to all of
us that you do,
he is going to be so thrilled.
This is such a big win.
Your relationship can survive
this if it's the right one,
and it is.
Didn't you and Landon break up
because you were going
different directions in life?
No. Well, I mean, yeah, but
Laurie's not Landon.
Come on. Give him a chance.
Okay.
I'm so excited. Okay.
Hey, Alcott Grove, get those
Christmas candles
out of storage.
Pastor Henderson himself
is promising us
the most special midnight
service we have ever seen,
and Alcott Grove, I don't know
if we're going to
finally get that snow, but I
hope to see you there.
Ho ho ho.
Need a hand?
When you said you were getting
into the Christmas spirit,
I thought you meant
ugly sweater.
Yeah, well, Ben had this
costume in storage
and couldn't resist.
Well, what about the beard?
Well, the one in the box
is pretty mangy,
but I think if I try
hard enough I could grow mine
out in the next few days.
5 o'clock shadow Santa.
We interrupting a moment?
Oh, not at all.
Fritz didn't have any plans, so
he offered to help.
That's sweet of you.
Both of you.
We're just going to go rehearse
for the Christmas Eve service.
Wait, how did you do that?
Call it a hidden talent.
Problem solving, hidden talent,
5:00 shadow, Ken Doll Santa.
Ooh, you know what, that sounds
like a new children's book.
You ever feel like
you're pretending
to be someone you're not?
What do you mean?
Well, imagine you push for an
assignment and they say yes,
and you get so
excited about the
opportunity, and you have all
these great ideas,
and then none of them work.
And then suddenly you feel like
a complete imposter.
Imposter syndrome.
Jo honestly, I get that
on every project I work on.
Really?
Yeah.
But you know what I've learned?
You have to turn off that old
memory machine.
You have to remember what
you were made to be,
and you have to remind yourself
the joy you feel when
you write something that turns
the light on in others.
Don't tell me the
moon is shining.
Show me the glint in the broken
glass and lift my heart.
Wow.
That's an unbelievably
beautiful turn of phrase.
Thank you. That last
part may or
may not have
been Anton Chekhov.
When I write my kids books,
it's all talking aardvarks
and singing
walruses and an
elephant that does
sign language
with this trunk.
I'm just inspired by
the beauty of
growing up with my family.
I mean, sure, there's conflict,
but we always got past it with
love and imagination.
Singing walruses, huh?
Who else would defend the
nine narwhals of
the North Pole?
Well, yeah. Obviously.
My goal with this new
one is to reach older,
more sophisticated readers,
but all I remember
about my teenage years
was self-doubt,
confusion and heartbreak.
I guess that's why I have to
keep starting over.
I can't imagine
how hard it must
be changing genres like that.
I can't admit any of
this to my publisher.
I think they're starting
to lose patience.
Hang in there.
I have confidence
you'll figure it out.
Angels we have heard on high,
sweetly singing o'er the
plains. And the mountains in--
Nora don't stop.
Keep going. You sound amazing.
I don't know.
When people start listening,
I sort of freeze up.
I'm sorry.
I understand.
It's happened to me too,
stage fright.
There's no way that
I can sing at
the church in front
of all those people.
Don't even think about that
right now, okay?
You just keep practicing for
you, nobody else.
We can decide about
Christmas Eve later. Okay?
Okay.
You got this.
Gloria in excelsis deo.
Gloria in excelsis deo.
Thanks for helping today.
Alcott Grove is
rubbing off on me.
One of our little towns values.
The rest of the world can
learn a little bit from it.
You know, talking with you is
really lifted some
clouds for me.
Wish you were around any time
I needed a pep talk.
Well, it has been my pleasure.
So where is home
when you're not
researching Christmas towns?
New York, actually.
No way.
Me too. What part?
Brooklyn Heights, you?
Williamsburg. Almost neighbors.
Well, you know, maybe we could,
hang out next time we're
both back in the city.
Are you asking me
out on a date?
No.
Maybe, I mean, isn't
that kind of what we're
doing right now?
I guess.
Once I get this story
across the finish line,
who knows, maybe
check back with me.
Happy to.
I should probably get home.
Right.
I'll see you tomorrow, I hope.
Yeah. See you tomorrow.
You look happy Aunt Jo.
You know what Daisy, I am.
That's good, because you've
looked kind of sad lately.
Really?
Yeah, but now your
eyes are smiling.
Ready to go ice skating, Daisy?
Yes, please. I'm gonna go
get my jacket on.
Does that cheery demeanor
have anything to do with Fritz?
No. Maybe.
Okay, yes.
We might've shared a little
moment last night.
Like you kissed?
What are we 13?
Okay, it was just
a little peck.
Okay. Details now.
So we started talking
about writing,
and this guy is as much of
a word nerd as me,
and he just starts
opening up to me
and I might've let him
into my soul too,
and then it just
kind of happened.
I am so happy for you after
what happened with Landon.
I just want you to find someone
who respects you for the
incredible person you are.
For all of you.
Well, I'm thrilled that you
found that with Laurie.
Although your poker face
needs some work.
You didn't tell him
the news yet?
Not yet.
Come on Aunt Amy, let's go.
We'll talk later.
Alcott Grove, just
three more sleeps
until Christmas Eve, folks.
And all that faith, love, and
joy that we cherish,
which is why there's
going to be great
music and celebration over at
the Congregational Church.
Speaking of music, our very own
Mason Risser is here with his
beautiful rendition
of 'O Holy Night.'
O Holy Night, the stars
are brightly shining
Wow, he's really good.
Yeah. The whole family's
amazing. They have such pipes.
So what's W.A.G. Radio's
place in Alcott Grove's story?
Let me guess, long ago,
one Christmas Eve,
lightning struck the
radio tower and caused
a blackout across the whole
Greater Alcott Grove.
My little town's winning
you over, isn't it?
It's not the only thing
winning me over.
Well, believe it or
not, there's
no epic back story to W.A.G.
unless you count D.J.
Bob Brunson tooling into town
in his red Porsche speedster
and never leaving.
What about this one?
What do you think, Nora?
We can put it next
to the piano.
Hey, you two.
Hey.
Yeah, I think this is
the one kids.
Can you take them inside,
let the owner know we want this
nutcracker for Hummel House.
Sure thing.
They like to pick
new decorations
for the center every Christmas.
Aw.
Ben, what are you
going to do when
Beth has to go back to
school in January?
I don't even want to
think about it.
If she didn't already have a
job, I'd hire her on the spot.
Anyway, I got to
go pay for this.
It was nice to see you guys.
See you.
Ben has a thing
for your sister.
I hope so.
She deserves someone
to be her biggest fan.
So I normally don't let
my guard down so fast,
but I feel like
I can trust you.
I wanted to let you
know that your
pep talk really paid off
for me last night.
In what way?
Got a burst of inspiration, and
when the sun came up, I had
a totally new proof of concept.
You were writing all night?
Mmhmm, got in the zone.
It felt amazing.
I can't tell you how relieved
I am to hear that.
Relieved?
Like as a fellow
writer or what?
Yeah. All of it. You know,
I care about you.
I want to see you succeed.
Any chance you'd
want to read it
and give me your
honest feedback?
I'd be happy to.
She's home.
Three days and counting.
I know, I'm counting
with you babe.
Hey, listen, there
was some news
this morning when I woke up.
My Christmas leave is
being denied again.
John, we miss you so much.
This is just really hard.
I know.
I know. I miss you, too.
I'll make it up to you
and Daisy some way somehow.
I know you will.
Look you have to be
brave for us,
so we'll be brave for you too.
Bravest woman I know.
Daisy's working on a
surprise for you.
She's sweet like her momma is.
Come on, now you're
making me cry
with all these guys around.
Me, too.
I've put up a prayer or two on
these walls over the years.
Me too. They've all
been about Amy.
Thanks for your help, Jo, and
helping me shop for her.
Hey, what about
something like this?
I like it, but Amy's really
picky about what
jewelry she'll wear.
Yeah.
Maybe a scented candle.
Wait is this dill?
We sprinkle this on our turkey
sandwiches at work.
Maybe look for something that
appeals to her artistic side.
Like what?
You're her boyfriend.
Yeah, but you're her sister and
I'm internationally known for
being mediocre at gift giving.
Just keep your eyes open.
Hey you remember greater than,
less than math from
elementary school?
Yeah.
Amy's greater than,
I'm the other one.
That's not really
how math works.
Is too. I mean, she's this
talented artist and
I feel like she's above
my pay grade.
Laurie does Amy love you?
Think so.
So if you are less than that
means Amy has poor taste,
and how would that be possible
if she's such a great artist?
Wait, you're right.
We all know I'm a
hopeless romantic.
Thanks, Jo.
Besides, I've been talking to
Amy about you,
and I've never heard her
gush about any one
the way she does about you.
She adores you,
and she wants a
future with you.
A future?
Merry Christmas, Susanna.
Just the person I was
hoping to talk to.
Fritz, it's important.
Okay, but I was,
I was just about
to ping you with really
good news about Jo.
I'm afraid it's too late.
What do you mean it's too late?
The pub board told
me to pull the plug.
Wait, I thought she had
until the new year?
So did I.
But Jo just handed
me a new proof
of concept that
she really loves.
Can't you go back to the
board for some more time?
Have you read it?
I was just about to.
She asked me to read
it and give her my notes.
So you finally told her why
you're really there?
No, not exactly, but it's still
working out the way you hoped.
Fritz, I know you've
grown fond of her,
but the board wants to start
the new year with
a clean slate.
Out with the old deals and
in with the new.
She is going to be wrecked.
I'm not at all happy
with how this
is shaking out, but it's
out of my hands.
Sometimes our business
leaves no space for feelings.
Well, for writers
who pour their
hearts and souls
into their projects,
it is always about
feelings, not just business.
I know.
So when are you
going to tell her?
I'm going to call her.
She's a pro. She'll bounce back
one way or another.
Please, Susanna,
this isn't right.
Fritz, I just want to thank
you for giving it a try.
I'm just sorry it was to no
avail, I truly am.
I guess now you can get
started on that ski trip.
From her house
by the river, the
Beaver Princess saw
the wolverines
approaching and she knew it
wouldn't be long before
they collapsed the dam
flooding the Beaver kingdom.
If only there was something
she could do,
some way to defend what
was rightfully hers,
and then she remembered...
Um, Beth do you mind
taking over for a second?
How was the Beaver
Princess ever to save
the River kingdom from
the wolverines?
Hey, I didn't know you
we're stopping by.
What is it?
I, um, I haven't been
completely truthful with you.
What do you mean?
Well, I really was
a travel writer
back in the day, and I would
really love to do a Christmas
piece on Alcott Grove...
But...
But it's not the only
reason I'm here.
Okay. What is happening
right now?
I work for Orchard House
and I was recently promoted to
associate editor there.
So,
Susanna, she sent you
here to spy on me?
To babysit me, make sure I'm
writing? Is that what this is?
I'm such an idiot.
Jo, there's really more to it.
She assigned me as the editor
to your book project because
she wants to see you succeed.
She thought maybe I could help
encourage you, you know?
And I wanted to tell you
when we first met,
but it never seemed like
the right time,
and every day that went by
it got harder to say something.
And I don't think Susanna
wanted to do this, but the
publishing board
has decided to cancel
your contract.
You know, I figured
for her, this is
just business, but
I never thought
for a second that's
who you were.
It's not who I am.
You know, here I
thought finally
maybe is a guy who doesn't
have any other agenda
other than just falling for me.
That part is true, Jo.
That is the theme
of my life lately.
I go out on an emotional limb
and people cut out the
branch behind me.
Jo, look, I know how it seems,
but you have to believe me.
The last thing I ever wanted to
do was hurt you.
Jo my feelings for
you were real,
and I just keep
thinking, what if,
what if we had bumped into
each other in the city
and this had all
happened naturally?
The more time
I've spent with you,
the more I wished that this was
real and not some work thing.
I don't know
what is real anymore.
I shouldn't have
deceived you, Jo.
I am so, so sorry.
Wow.
From young adult to apocalyptic
fiction in five minutes.
I let you into my heart
and I trusted you with it.
Seems like all you really cared
about was my writing sample,
so I guess that's
where the story ends.
Christmas Eve is finally here
Alcott Grove and
from W.A.G. Radio,
which is basically yours truly,
we wish you a blessed
Christmas with all
the people that love you.
I think she's still here.
Yeah.
Jo, you've been moping on the
couch the last two days.
Fritz went back to New York.
Don't let him keep you down.
It's Christmas Eve,
and you're skulking.
Sulking.
One "k," not two.
Okay, Merriam-Webster.
Not the point.
Jo, we hate seeing
you like this.
If God wanted you to
go through this alone,
he wouldn't have
given you a sister knot.
I just feel so ashamed.
I lead with my heart and these
guys stomp on it.
What do you mean these guys?
First Landon and now Fritz.
Well, wait. I thought
you were the
one who broke things
off with Landon.
I haven't been completely
honest with you guys.
I was just too embarrassed.
One night he asked
me to dinner to
tell me something important,
and I literally thought he was
going to propose,
and instead he tells me that
he's fallen for
someone who's a better
match for him.
Sis, I'm so sorry.
I knew I never liked that guy.
He always acted so
self-important.
It's not about him or Fritz,
it's about me.
I just keep telling
myself I'm not
going to get hurt
like that again,
and... Am I broken?
You're not broken, Jo.
You are the strongest person
I know with the warmest heart.
Don't blame yourself for what
happened with Fritz.
We pushed you
into that, remember?
We totally did.
You were guarding
your heart, and
we told you to stop
playing it safe.
We had no idea you
were still hurting.
Clearly, you're a better judge
of character than we are.
Thank you.
It's going to hurt
a little while,
but thank you girls
for being there for me.
What about your book project?
I guess I'm going
to have to look
for a new publishing house.
Hey Alexandra's
Adventures will go on,
and so will Jo March's.
I owe you guys an apology.
For what?
Just been so worried about
John making it home that
I failed my
oldest sister duties.
No, listen, I can
tell all three
of you have been going
through some stuff and
just forgive me for not paying
attention like I should have.
It's Christmas, okay, so
my heart is open for business
if any of you need it.
Mine too.
Same.
Alcott Grove, here
is Rodney Eldridge
with his very own new original.
All my favorite people
gathered around the table.
There's a cozy fire and
twinkling lights.
God, I love this
time of year.
Sisters in the kitchen.
Those cookies
smell delicious.
Filling up on love
and cheer.
All we really
need's right here.
In a hometown Christmas.
A hometown Christmas
Red and evergreen,
oh caroling.
It's a festive scene.
I'm glad to be in a
hometown Christmas
A hometown Christmas.
Thanks for my doll, Aunt Amy.
You're welcome Daisy and
Laurie pitched in too.
I'm happy that Santa's not the
only one who gives presents.
This one's for you, Aunt Beth.
Thank you.
We had it engraved
with your name
and the date you
started teaching
at the middle school.
We know you can't wait to get
back to conducting your choir.
Wait. What's wrong, Beth?
I'm, uh,
I'm not a music
teacher anymore.
I got laid off a
few months ago.
Oh no, Beth.
It's the real reason
I came back home,
and I've been volunteering at
Hummel House.
I just, I was afraid
to tell you all.
I read about those budget cuts
at the school district.
That was you too?
All the arts teachers yeah.
It was my dream job,
and now it's gone.
I'm sorry I didn't tell you.
Beth, God has given you a
wonderful gift of
music for a reason.
He's not done with you.
Dad's always told us that
who we are isn't what
we do for work,
but what we do
for other people.
And you are the epitome
of kindness and compassion,
and nothing will
ever change that.
And believe it or not, I
kind of guessed what happened.
You did?
Yeah, but we wanted to get
you the baton anyway.
I mean, it's only a
matter of time
before you're back helping
students find and
bless the world
with their musical gifts.
And nothing can keep you from
what you were born to do.
Thank you Amy.
Thank you, all of you.
Speaking of secrets, um,
Daisy, can you bring
that gift to Amy?
What did you do Laurie?
Jo encouraged me.
We were out
shopping to be bold,
so I decided to
go big or go home.
I could have gotten
you a candle or
an organic cotton blouse from
locally sourced materials, but
I love you, Amy Curtis March
and I want to spend the
rest of my life with you.
Please marry me.
Laurie.
Yes.
But...
There's a but?
I don't know what to do.
I got accepted
into the Academy of
Art in Chicago
on a full scholarship,
and I'm enrolled for
the spring semester.
I'm supposed to
start next month.
That's amazing. Amy, I mean,
this is your dream.
I'm so proud of you.
But it's not amazing.
I mean, what are we
supposed to do?
There were so
many times I wanted
to tell you, but I thought
you would break
up with me because
this is your home, and
now you've asked
me to marry you,
and it's a total mess.
Amy, I love you.
My home is wherever you go.
I'll go anywhere with you.
You will?
I love Chicago.
Hot dogs, deep dish pizza,
Da Bears.
Listen, going to this
school was your dream.
Let's go and get your dream
together. Okay?
Laurie, I love you so much.
I knew you would come.
John.
Hey.
John.
Hey.
I don't understand.
Me neither.
Christmas miracle, I suppose?
I just kept asking upstairs.
You know, next thing you knew,
I had a free seat on a C-130.
Didn't even have
time to call you.
Surprise.
This is amazing.
Hi, everybody.
Welcome home.
Daddy, I got a present for you.
What?
I love presents.
Especially when
they're from you.
Let's see it. Okay.
Knowing you this is a
wonderful piece of artwork.
Is that me?
Yes.
I have wings?
Told you he would get
home with the wings mommy.
Wow. Thank you.
Wow, I love it.
Hey, there's another gift.
It's from Grandma and
Grandpa to the March sisters.
Jo, you want to do the honors?
Precious daughters.
We pray your first
Christmas Eve
without us is a night of
miracles for all of you.
Well you can say that again.
Your dad and I wanted to do
something special for you.
The Bible says that a cord of
three strands is
not easily broken.
That's the bond
that you sisters
have always had,
and we pray you always will.
Wear these sister knot
necklaces with pride,
and remember that no matter
where you are in the world,
you will always
be the March sisters.
Nothing can ever divide family.
Merry Christmas.
Love, Mom and Dad.
Uh, hey, everyone.
Sorry to ruin this
tender family moment,
but are we heading to church?
For unto us a child is born,
a son is given, and
the government shall
be upon his shoulders
and his name shall be called a
wonderful counselor,
the mighty God,
the Prince of Peace,
the everlasting Father.
Friends. I don't know what
you're facing tonight,
I don't know what
you're going through,
but what I can tell you is that
you will find the answer
in God's miracle of Christmas.
You see, the Christmas
story is a story of love,
and that love sets us free.
That love gets us through
some of the toughest times
and that love brings us home.
That's why we're here tonight,
on this Christmas Eve, to
celebrate that love.
Now would y'all give
a nice Alcott Grove
welcome to someone that's
near and dear to my heart.
I'm talking about my mama.
Bertie Henderson is here, and
she's come to sing
a very special
song we're going
to sing together.
Would y'all make her feel
welcome. Come on, momma.
I'm so glad you're here.
There's a joy at Christmas
and the world awaits.
That joy of Christmas,
that joy of faith.
To all who may wander
under lights by the tree.
That joy of Christmas is
for you and for me.
Let there be joy to all on
this blessed day.
Let there be joy.
I pray it comes your way.
Sing joy.
Sing about it.
Here comes Santa Claus.
Oh Joy. Right down
Santa Claus Lane.
Joy. There's a
joy at Christmas.
There's a joy for all,
every girl and boy.
Ringing the holiday,
and remember what we said.
There is a joy at Christmas.
What a special day.
Joy to the world.
Joy it brings.
Joy to the world.
Joy at Christmas.
And the world awaits.
There's a joy at Christmas
and that's our faith.
Joy
Thank you for your Joy
Thank you for your Joy
Joy.
Joy to the world.
The Lord has come.
Lord. All is right.
All is calm.
He's here, you know?
Thank you for your joy.
Thank you. Thank you.
Thank you.
Make some noise for my mama.
Now, we cannot close out our
Christmas Eve service
without having our a special
candlelight ceremony.
And coming to lead us
in Silent Night
is our very own Beth March
and our high schooler
Nora Bond,
from our own Hummel House
after school center.
I don't think I can do this.
Yes, you can, Nora.
God gave you a beautiful voice.
Now, trust him to
give you the confidence.
If you will take that
candle in front of you,
we'll light up this place like
Reverend Alcott's wife
did for her husband
on that Christmas Eve
night 100 years ago.
Girls.
Nora
Just close your
eyes and worship.
Silent night, holy night.
All is calm, all is bright.
Round yon virgin
mother and child.
Holy infant so
tender and mild.
Sleep in heavenly peace.
Sleep in heavenly peace.
Beth, I'm so proud
of you and Nora
that it was the most meaningful
candlelight service ever.
Thanks sis.
Hey. Was I hallucinating
or did I see you know
who in the crowd?
You did.
And what did he want?
I'm sorry to interrupt,
um, Beth could I have
a minute of your time?
I'm going to go get
some hot cider.
Is everything okay?
I'm hoping it will be.
I keep having this thought and
watching you up
there with Nora,
encouraging her
to face her fears,
I knew I had to talk to you.
Beth this is going to
sound totally crazy,
it may and I'm sorry if I'm
overstepping because
I know you already have a job,
but would you consider coming
to work with me at Hummel House
as music director?
Yes.
Yes?
Absolutely. Yes.
Your timing is perfect. You
have no idea. Thank you.
Hey, Jo.
At least you kept one promise.
One promise?
To make it to the
candlelight service.
Just in the nick of time.
I'm glad you still want to
write a piece on this town.
At least that was real.
I deserve that.
Jo there was a lot more
real than just that.
I should have told
you why I was
here from the very
first moment I met you.
You introduced me to your
family, to your town,
you opened your life to me.
More importantly, you opened
your heart to me,
and I'm so sorry I wasn't
fully honest with you.
Thank you for saying that.
It made me sad that you
couldn't be honest with me.
You were afraid
I would reject you?
I know that you were under
pressure from Susanna
just like I was.
But it's no excuse for
breaking your trust.
Isn't you being here
going to mess
things up at Orchard House?
Yeah, yeah it could have.
While I was flying back to
New York, I had an idea.
I talked to Susanna and
I convinced her
to read your new
proof of concept.
She loved it as much as I do.
She loved it?
And we both agree you are on
to something incredible.
So I told her she
owed it to you
to go back to the
board one more
time and fight for you,
and if they resisted
then I'd quit.
She threatened to quit, too,
and they folded
like a cheap tent.
I don't know what to say.
You did all that for me?
Thank you.
Don't thank me. It was
your pages that did it.
That night in the car, when you
told me about your all
night writing sessions,
I could see it in you,
in your smile,
in the joy in your eyes.
I remember when
I told you about
that unbreakable bond
I have with my sisters.
Yeah?
There's something
you said about
writing the story that I know,
and after knocking
my head against
a wall trying to
think of a good idea,
you helped me realize that
maybe that story's
been here all along.
Four sisters growing up
in a small town
falling in love,
having their hearts broken,
discovering who they are,
learning to lean on each other
when life just feels like it's
too much to handle.
Well, I hope
Orchard House is prepared.
Prepare for what?
Their next best seller,
assuming I do my
job as your editor.
But beyond the
book, Jo, I just,
I hope you know how sorry I am
for everything that happened.
Let's get a hot chocolate.
You know, my folks
always taught
me that eventually everyone
needs do-overs.
Everyone deserves grace from
time to time,
and as hard as it is,
giving that grace
is just a better way
for me to live.
That's been the heart
of my kids books.
Life's too short to
hang on to grudges.
So I absolve you of your
mess up Friedrich Baehr.
So you forgive me?
I do.
I didn't expect that or
deserve it, but thank you.
And no need
to rehash everything.
I'm okay if we go
our separate ways
and hold on at least to
a few of the nice memories.
I don't want to go
my separate way.
I don't know what
to say to that.
All the scenarios in my head,
that really wasn't one of them.
Jo, you live your life
with an open heart
and it is, amongst
so many other things,
the best part about you
and the rest of us
are blessed because of it.
But only if we're smart
enough to hold onto it.
What are you saying?
Well, folks, it looks
like we've finally got
that snow we've all
been waiting for.
That's another Christmas Eve
in the books.
God bless you, everybody, and
from W.A.G. Radio,
Merry Christmas Alcott Grove.
Everybody's waited
the whole year long,
counting down those
days until Christmas comes.
Chill is on the breeze, and
the family's all in town.
The lights are on the trees,
and it won't be too long now.
Please tell me there's
more cinnamon rolls.
There's another ten
in the oven.
Hey, anyone seen
Jo this morning?
She was writing when
I went to sleep,
and writing when I woke up.
Hey Daisy look.
Let's make a memory, you'll
cherish through the years
This is the most
wonderful time,
and that time is
finally here
Feels like joy to the world
Feels like snow in the air
Feels like choirs singing,
church bells ringing,
hope is everywhere
A Little Women's Christmas (2024)
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