Today's coffee consumers
base their purchasing decisions
on convenience and
brand familiarity,
as well as anything to get
them through the daily grind.
The stories that
Rosemary and I have created
will bring customers
into the stories
positioning Good Idea Coffee
as a subliminal thought
throughout their day.
I like what I'm
hearing so far.
Our aim is to showcase
your brand's strengths
and the qualities that
help people get through
their every day to boost
energy and productivity.
A couple navigating
their busy morning
to a family at breakfast.
A midday board meeting
to a nighttime coffee
nestled by a fire
as one of our execs works
overtime on a project.
All of which are relatable.
Our goal is to show people
in their everyday lives,
but in fast-paced scenarios
where they are using
your coffee to adapt.
They'll see themselves
in the campaign.
I like it. I see it.
Good Idea Coffee is
saying that's a good idea.
We aim to finalize
a clear direction
for the commercial
campaign and print
across all media
formats by January 1st.
Okay.
Final presentations
will be heard on the 24th.
Um, yeah, of, of course.
That's, sure. That's
not a problem.
We are only taking
two final pitches,
and you're one of them.
I'm confident that
you'll deliver
exactly what we've discussed.
Thank you so much for
the opportunity. Really.
- Now I'll walk you out.
- Thank you.
To Compass Star Creative,
Philadelphia's best
marketing firm.
Mm-hmm. Look at us.
Who would've thought
that we'd be s...
Hey, what's wrong?
This is a big success.
I know, I know. Nothing.
It's just, well, we
can't get too excited
and celebrate too much too fast.
We still have to nail
the final pitch, right?
With the pair of us
we can make it happen.
Plus, it'll really help us
with the rent for this place.
I know, that's my point.
We just, we can't get too-
Sorry, one second.
This is my dad calling.
Hi, Dad.
Say hi to Jeff. Hey, Mr. Brow.
Hi there, Jeff.
Sorry to bug you, honey.
I know you guys are really busy.
Um, it's fine.
We're just, uh, in the
middle of this big pitch,
so I don't have a ton
of time, but what's up?
Is everything okay?
Everything's fine.
I'm just helping your
mother decorate the shop
and I can't seem to find
her box of extra lights.
If I know Mom, it's probably
in the red storage bin
over by the extra
biography stock.
It's where it always is.
Ah, of course. The
one place I didn't look.
All right, honey. Thank you.
Yeah. Oh,
w- wait, wait, wait.
W- where, where's mom?
Just a bit under the weather.
Um, what kind of weather
and how much is she under it?
My mom apparently is
not feeling very well.
William, thanks for coming.
Honey. I've got a friend
just come in to help me here.
I'll call you later, okay?
Dad, what are
you not telling me?
Everything's fine.
Your mom just sprained her
ankle a little. That's all.
She didn't want to worry you.
Okay. Well, now I'm worried.
I'll fill you in
later, honey, okay?
Bye. Love you.
I can't thank you enough.
And I know this is not in
your usual job description.
You kidding?
You and Susan were the first
to welcome me to Maple River.
For you guys it's absolutely
in my job description.
All right, let's get to work.
Okay. What do we got?
I guess my mom
slipped on some ice.
Oi.
Just of all the times
for this to happen.
We have inventory arriving daily
and decorations need to go up.
Do they still host that
Christmas story reading thing?
I mean, they're supposed to,
but with my mom off her feet,
I don't know how my
dad's gonna do it all.
Rosemary, go home.
No. No.
Jeff, I, I can't leave you
with the deadline Sam
just dropped on us.
Rosemary, we know our strategy
for the Good Idea
Coffee campaign.
Just go home. Go be with
your parents for a few days.
You can work from home.
When is the last time
you took a day off?
Exactly. Remember when
I caught chicken pox,
you covered for me
for like two weeks?
Get out of here.
- Are you sure?
- I am sure.
Just I might call
you a couple times.
You just gotta be
okay with that, so.
You know what?
I will take it.
That's totally fine.
I will pick up any
call from you, partner.
Oh, that's so nice of you.
Okay. Thank you so much.
Have a safe trip.
- Merry Christmas.
- Merry Christmas.
Dad?
Hey.
Hi.
Oh, you must be new here.
We don't really drape
the lights over the books
because it can be
bad for business
if customers can't see
the books very easily.
- I see.
- Yeah.
And, you know, if a customer
reaches for the book
and then the lights fall
down, it's also not good.
So that's, that's
why we don't do that.
And you are?
Rosemary.
Rosemary Brown, the
store owner's daughter.
Yes. I've decorated the shop
a time or two.
Sorry, who are you?
- I'm William Tandy.
- Dad.
- Rosemary.
- Hi.
- Surprise.
- What are we doing here?
I just, when you
called about mom,
I figured I would come
home for a few days
and help around the store.
Well, your mom is going to
be even more surprised than me.
Hey, how about the
lights on the shelves?
I think your mom's
gonna like it.
It's a nice change.
Light up the books.
Excuse me, honey.
I'll be right back.
Oh, it's my dad's idea.
- Mm-hmm.
- Okay.
Um, well, for the record,
I don't think my
mom's gonna like this.
She's a bit of a traditionalist.
Well, also for the
record, I don't work here,
so I'm gonna get back to
volunteering for your dad.
But, uh, thanks for the tip.
Oops. Um...
Dad, did you, uh, do you
need some help with that?
I still can't believe you're
here. Best surprise ever.
Excellent.
But you did not need to come.
I mean, Dad and I have
everything under control.
Well, maybe not everything.
I feel bad.
Are you really sure that Jeff's
got everything under control
with all your accounts
while you're here?
Yes. Absolutely.
And we brainstormed
on the drive up here.
And anyway, I can, you know,
work when I'm on
break from the store.
Let's just say the pans
weren't the only things
- that fell to the floor.
- Oh.
These are now
substituting as dessert.
Aw, it's a good
thing I came back.
No, I'm good. Thanks, Dad.
It is. I hate not being
all decorated by now.
I mean, I would have all
the Christmas books unpacked
and the lights all strung
and the Santa's h*-hoing.
I just, I need this
ankle to cooperate.
No, Mom, what you need
is to stay off the ankle
so that you're healed
up for story night.
Maybe we ought to
just skip it this year.
Mom. No, you can't
skip it this year.
I mean, everyone
looks forward to it.
And plus it's good
for publicity.
Says my marketing
expert daughter.
But all the prep
and the planning,
it just, it makes
more work for you.
No, it's worth it, Mom.
And anyway, Dad had a worker
there at the store today,
so not so much work after all.
William came by to
help with decorations.
Just to get started.
You did show him the
Christmas time photos
so all the decorations
go in the right place?
We, uh, we didn't
do too much, honey.
Just a few strands of lights
and maybe a garland or two.
Okay. Mom, don't
worry about it.
Why don't you just
text me a to-do list
and-
How did you even
have this on standby?
- Be prepared.
- Okay.
Okay. It's gonna be fine.
We're gonna get it
all done. Don't worry.
Cheers. Merry Christmas guys.
Happy to be home.
- Merry Christmas.
- Merry Christmas.
Looks like this is turning out
to be a bigger
job than expected.
No, not at all.
Actually, uh, I replaced
the whole door handle
and, uh, since I was here,
I got you a new lock.
I can come look at
this later though.
I, I just, I can't tell you
how grateful we are for you.
You are unbelievable.
Thank you so much.
Listen, this is a paying job.
No, no. Okay?
I love coffee and
leftover potluck desserts.
All right? Honestly.
And that's kind of worth more
to a single man deciding
his next step in life.
About that.
Ha- have you thought about
that job your old
boss set up for you?
Yeah, um, I mean,
it's a great position
in another furniture
company, benefits and all.
Oh, well look, you work
so hard; you deserve that.
It sounds like
you're all set up.
Yeah. Yeah.
It's a great opportunity.
However?
something in my gut says
to not take it just yet.
And I know it's risky
and I know it's tough
for small businesses,
but making furniture
is my passion.
Be nice to do it full time.
But wait, so couldn't you just
make some custom
furniture at the new job?
Nah. No way I'd
be able to do both.
I see.
Okay. Well, let me ask you this.
If you could do anything,
anything at all in your life
and you knew you just couldn't
fail, what would you do?
- Oh.
- Rosemary.
- What a delightful surprise.
- I got you. I got you.
- Pastor Dale, hi.
- Hi.
It's so good to see you.
Sorry, my mom just
wanted to make sure
that you got the last box
of our book donations.
How is she doing?
In her words, the timing
of the sprain is not ideal.
Yeah.
Uh, actually Rosemary,
do you know William?
- Uh, no-
- Yeah, we met yesterday.
W- well, we might
have met yesterday,
but I don't know you, know you.
Well, a finer man you will
not meet in Maple River.
- Mm.
- Indeed.
Thanks again, William.
Well, look, I hope
to see you both
at the meeting for the
Christmas Eve service.
We need as many
volunteers as we can get.
- Absolutely.
- Hmm.
We'll see you.
Um, I should probably
go ahead and take...
I got you.
- After you.
- Okay.
Wow, I've missed this place.
- No churches in Philly?
- No. A lot actually.
Just none that feel like home.
I used to spend a
lot of time here,
so it holds a special
place in my heart.
I'm sorry. Wait, how do
you know where I live?
Uh, let's just say your
parents are very proud of you.
Whenever I help 'em out,
one of 'em usually has
a good Rosemary story.
Oh, please tell me
they haven't broken out
the childhood photo albums.
Only up until age nine.
But, uh, it's pretty
awesome though.
They told me you have your
own company. Marketing.
Yeah, um, Compass
Star Creative.
Where we guide you in
the right direction.
It's been a lot of hard
work for many years,
but, you know, proud of it.
"Guide you in the
right direction."
- Mm-hmm.
- I like that.
So what about you? What are
you doing here in Maple River?
Uh, I moved here a
couple years ago for work
and never left.
It's the kind of place
I feel like you get to
and you just immediately
know you never wanna leave.
I, oh, I didn't mean,
I didn't mean like you
should never have left.
No, it's okay.
Um, honestly, if I could
have started my company here
and had the same
success, I would have.
So you fix church doors?
- Yes. It's my passion.
- Is it?
No, I make custom furniture.
I used to work at Kendrick's
before he retired.
Oh. So wait, what
does that mean for you?
Well, I had this
one job offer,
but I'm also thinking about
branching out on my own.
Oh, okay.
Well if you need any help with
that, I happen to know a girl
who might have some
experience in marketing.
Nah, you got enough on
your plate with your parents.
Sorry, speaking of my parents,
my Mom just sent
me my to-do list.
My third one since last night.
Oh no. And now my
dad is texting.
Apparently my mom's favorite
wreath broke in two.
Uh, this might be
a silly question,
but how exactly
does a wreath break?
It's an old wooden wreath.
Well, I might
happen to know a guy
who's pretty good
working with wood.
Is that an offer to help?
Maybe.
Well, I don't wanna take you
from your work if you're...
Okay. Thank you,
you're a lifesaver.
No problem.
Hey, do
you have a quick second?
That depends. Are you taking
some much-needed you time
or are you calling about work?
Can it be both?
I'll allow this
time. How's your mom?
Well, she'd tell
you that she's fine,
but she makes a
really bad patient
and it's a good
thing I came back
because the store is really
not ready for Christmas.
But thankfully William
has been helping.
So that's been really nice.
Who has?
Oh, don't tell me they finally
hired someone to help them.
No, no, never.
You know my parents.
William is this guy
who moved here a few
years ago to Maple River.
Did he now?
And what does William
do in Maple River?
No, that is, that's
not what I meant.
Honestly, come
on. You can tell me.
It sounds like there might
be something going on.
No, no it isn't.
Okay, look, that's, this is
not what I'm calling about.
I'm calling about work.
I'm calling about the
Good Idea Coffee campaign.
Did you get the marketing
data I emailed over?
Already incorporated
into the final pitch,
I, I just wanna make sure
it's not predictable.
Predictable.
You're right. Okay.
Um, how about I...
Hi.
I'm here to see a
girl about a wreath.
Is that William?
Uh, I'll call you back later.
Have fun.
Um, hi. I hope I didn't
take you from work.
No. Uh, well actually this
is what I was working on.
Oh.
Hmm.
It's terrible, isn't it?
No, no. It just could
use some finessing.
That is a kind
way of putting it.
Listen, we all have
our talents. Okay?
And this really isn't that bad.
It's just, have you
thought about maybe using
a more eye-catching font?
And then these, these here,
are these your designs?
Yeah.
If you had photos of them,
maybe we could make
those the focus,
since that's what we're selling.
Um, if you wanna
send me those photos,
then I can take a look later
today and see what I can-
No. No, no.
You got way more important
things going on here.
I, I would not ask that of you.
You didn't. I offered.
Which was super kind.
But I'm also fairly
certain I can't afford
a big marketing firm rate.
It's a tax write off.
I'm kidding. I'm kidding.
Okay. Look, thankfully we
have something to trade.
Okay.
One broken wreath does not equal
a new company's
marketing strategy.
Right. It doesn't.
But you have no idea how
much work I need you to do.
So if you could just go
ahead and shake on it,
that would be great.
Just go ahead and
shake. We have a deal?
- Deal.
- Okay.
So you've already shaken on it.
You can't change your mind now.
How bad could it be?
Okay.
Thanks.
So you've already
agreed to it.
There's no backing out now.
But for starters,
this piece fell off.
I think it was trim.
I think it maybe
actually went back here.
And it just,
it needs some love.
I think it's an
easy fix. Honestly.
I mean, I could stand this down
and, I mean, I'll add a
stain to remove these stars.
Whoa. Not the stars.
Those are an important
part of my history.
Let me guess.
School project
didn't go as planned.
I think it went
exactly as planned.
My sixth grade art
teacher didn't agree,
but fortunately for
me, my mom loved them.
Okay. Uh, fix the
top and keep the stars.
Well, if it's okay, I mean,
I could just fix it in
the back right here.
The less movement the better.
Yeah, yeah. Whatever works.
Um, listen, uh,
I'm aware that fixing a
wreath and the podium,
it's not really what
you do so thank you.
Well, um, I'm sure you don't
spend all day fixing flyers
for guys who might
start a business.
I can make an exception.
- Okay. Do you wanna-
- Okay.
Take it to the back.
Yeah.
This thing's like a tank.
Uh, where do you
think you're going?
Me? Nowhere.
I, I, I was just stretching.
Susan Brown, you have
to stay off your feet.
You heard the doctor.
You've got to give
it a chance to heal.
I know.
But I could go down to the
store and sit still there.
It's only a few days.
Unless you continue
to try to walk
every time I leave the room.
Fine.
You think we should
call Rosemary? She might need our help.
Already did. And she doesn't.
She's very capable
of running the store.
Even during Christmas.
For the record, I am
not happy about this.
Oh, you've made
that abundantly clear.
That said, I do
love that she's home.
Even if it's just
for a little bit.
I know. Me too.
Oh.
And ta-da.
Honey, um...
Oh, um, pizza or Chinese?
Okay. Thank you so much
for shopping with us.
Merry Christmas.
If you need any help,
just let me know.
Rosemary Brown. Is that you?
- Erin?
- Hi.
- Hi.
- What are you doing home?
Um, my mom slipped on ice,
- believe it or not.
- Oh, no!
Yeah. She twisted her
ankle, but she's totally fine.
And yeah, I just thought
I would come back
and help out for
the holiday season.
What about you? I thought
you were out west.
Yes. No, I am.
I was. And then...
Erin. Oh my gosh.
Congratulations.
Thank you. Yeah.
No, we got married and decided
we wanted to raise a family,
so we moved back here.
Almost a year ago.
Wow. Wait, family?
- We're working on it.
- Okay.
In the meantime, I
have nieces and nephews.
- Okay.
- Your mom said you guys
have some Christmas
books for kids.
Oh, oh, kids book. Yeah.
We, we just sold
out, unfortunately.
But I literally just
placed another order
and they will be in tomorrow.
Okay. I love you guys.
I'll come back tomorrow.
Twist my arm. Pull my leg.
Oh my gosh. I love this store.
I think I used to stay here
every day after school.
I wanted to live here.
And what about you?
I'm so rude. How are you?
What's new?
Um, I'm good, actually.
I'm still living in Philadelphia
and my company's
doing really well.
Love working there.
So yeah, everything's
going really, really well.
As you can see.
You're good. Go, go, go.
Yeah. I'm so sorry.
But you know what?
I would love to see you soon,
so maybe we could like
get lunch and catch up.
Yeah, no, I would love that.
Okay. Okay.
Sounds good.
Rosemary Brown? Yes.
Yes, um, Jeff,
I am so sorry I didn't
call you back yesterday.
I just, I, I forgot how crazy
it gets around here
at Christmas time.
But I did get your
texts and your emails
and I still think we're
good on the pitch,
but, you know, I'll, I'll
give you a call tomorrow
and we can kinda chat about it.
Okay. Bye.
Oh, this is a welcome
surprise. Twice in one day.
Well, you know, my mother
wouldn't miss a meeting.
As church secretary she does
have her list, you understand.
I do not doubt that.
Which is why I ran
back to get my notes
'cause I know she will be
checking off items as we go
and I do not wanna skip one.
Yeah, absolutely. Wise man.
How does it feel
to be back home?
It's good. Yeah.
No, it's, I really miss
spending time with my parents,
so it's nice to be back
and good to take a break
from work probably.
Mm.
This is the wonderful
thing about being back:
home is always here
waiting for you.
Uh, will I see you later?
Yes. Yeah, I,
just work emails.
Gotta finish those first.
Yeah. Excellent.
I'll see you later then.
Is there anything in this
town that you're not a part of?
Probably not.
Oh, well actually
this is really great
because I have
something for you.
Oh?
Two somethings actually.
Well, what do you think
Made these today?
How?
Well, between customers,
and how, this is
literally what I do.
Look, they're just
first drafts. Okay.
And I'm open to any changes
that you would like
on one condition.
Which is?
We don't ever go
back to your original,
I mean, ever, ever.
It was really sad.
Agreed.
These are amazing. Really.
But, you know...
But?
Considering the amount of work
I foresee myself doing at
your parents' bookstore
this very busy Christmas season,
I don't know if these flyers
are gonna cover it all.
Whoa. What kind of work do
you expect to be doing there?
Well, now, now that
I got these flyers...
Might have all kinds of ideas.
I'll see you in there.
Betsy, you're
organizing the ushers,
Marsha, I have you
on refreshments
and thank you to
the Brown family for coordinating desserts.
Christmas cookies, pecan
pie, cocoa brownies,
and pumpkin cheesecake.
All right, William,
you're next on the agenda.
Yeah, um, so I've had
this idea for a while
and, uh, I shared
it with Pastor Dale
and he suggested that we turn
it into a Christmas mural
and put it behind the altar.
It'll, uh, it'll be a painting
of Bethlehem at night.
There'll be deep shades of
blue throughout the dark sky
and little bits of gold
starlight right over the town.
And of course at the
forefront, Mary and Joseph.
William, that
sounds beautiful.
Thank you. Mrs. B.
And I plan to carve the
whole thing into wood first.
Um, sorry.
Did, did you just
say you're planning
on carving that whole
scene into wood?
Yeah, that's, that's
what I just said.
Is the carving part done yet?
No, not yet.
Well, I'm just thinking that,
don't you need to paint
it after it's done?
It would appear that way.
Sorry, I'm really not trying
to question your artistic
process here or anything,
but, um, what you described,
while breathtakingly beautiful,
it's, it's very
intricate and I just,
I'm a little concerned
it might not be done
by Christmas Eve.
Well, it's a good thing
you're so experienced
painting stars.
- Ooh.
- I'm happy
to be working with you.
Very sweet. Um, I don't
think that's a very good idea.
It's would be really
weird for me to jump in.
You know, you've
already started,
artists can be so territorial
with their work and all, so.
Any help you
could give William
will be very much
appreciated by us.
Mm-hmm.
Rosie. That's so nice of you.
And each year we're gonna
have a little piece of you
at the holidays.
It just, it's wonderful.
You know what?
Okay. Yeah.
Especially because William
has so kindly offered
to put my name next
to his on the mural.
I didn't say it
exactly like that.
Okay, well then it is settled.
Rosemary and William will
be creating a masterpiece
that will be unveiled at
the Christmas Eve service.
Merry Christmas.
Well, good morning
honey. You're up early.
Morning.
Yeah, just wanted to
start the day early.
A lot to do.
And then I'm gonna head over
and get the bookstore
all opened up.
You don't need to do
that. Dad's already there.
I mean, you could
use a little rest.
I was up in the night
getting some water
and I heard you working.
What are you doing?
Well, I wanted to get
a jump on the invites.
I know.
And before you try
to cancel it again,
you should know I've
already sent them out.
That's impossible.
It's too early.
Social media's a very
powerful tool, Mom.
All of our regulars have
already been made aware.
And then I think I'm
gonna print this out
and take some physical
ones around town.
I don't even have an
idea for a story yet.
Well, thankfully
with your ankle,
you have plenty of time to read.
And we just got
some new Christmas releases
into the bookstore,
so, you know, you can
peruse through those.
You always find the best
undiscovered authors.
I'm not worried about it.
I do, don't I.
You know, seeing you
with this notebook,
it just reminds me of every year
just ready to promote the night.
Well, I think I still got
it, if I do say so myself.
Have I mentioned how much
I love having you home?
Not today.
You know, who
would've ever thought
that twisting my ankle
would be such a blessing.
Maybe I should do it every year.
Mom!
By the way, you and William
and the project at
the church last night,
it was quite a surprise.
Yeah, it was to me too.
Um, we're supposed
to meet later today
to go over some of the details.
Hm, well, anything to get
you away from the computer
and back to painting
and drawing has my vote.
And, you know, William's not
exactly hard on the eyes.
Mom.
Oh my goodness.
I am so sorry for
keeping you all waiting.
Good morning, Erin.
Rosemary will be so
disappointed she missed you.
It's okay. I
saw her yesterday.
She said she left some
books from me in the back.
Oh, she did. I can grab them
or you're welcome
to come around.
I'll come around.
Hi.
How are you doing today?
I'm doing great, thank you.
That is gonna
be $52.29 please.
Great. And could I have
those gift wrapped, please?
Uh, sure. Oh, could
you wait a minute?
We're a little short
staffed right now.
That's okay.
I'm actually really
good at gift wrapping.
Um, that would be amazing,
Erin. Could you please?
Yeah, sure. Come with me.
- Lemme help you over here.
- Great, thanks.
Merry Christmas. Next.
- Red ribbon, green ribbon?
- Hi. Okay.
Ah, it's so good to be back.
Oh.
Someone hasn't been following
my directions now, have they?
Yeah.
Look who it is!
Mom got permission to come in
if she promises to take it easy.
Looks like the elves
have been very busy.
Honey, I know you're
a fan of tradition
and keeping things the same.
And before you say anything,
I can move everything
back to where it was.
I just thought we could use
a tiny refresher in here.
That's all.
I don't hate it yet.
Oh, I'll take it.
Oh, Rosemary, you
just missed Erin.
Yeah. She came in to pick up
the books and saved the day.
She helped wrap presents.
Well, you know,
Erin loves this place
almost as much as we do.
So if we were ever to
hire some full-time help.
We have always been just
fine with the two of us
and part-time help if
there's a busy season.
Mom, Christmas
is the busy season.
And look, here you are.
Part-time help, check.
Sorry, one second.
Can you help me
with my coat, sweetie?
Jeff. Hi.
I'm, I'm so sorry I
did not have a chance
to look over, um, what
you sent me last night.
All good.
Hey, I hope that forgetting
means you were having fun.
How's Susan?
She's better, um,
yeah, she's actually here
today, which is great.
But, um, I was really hoping
that I could stay with them
for maybe a few more days.
You stay as long as
you need and want to.
I've got everything
covered here.
Thank you, Jeff.
Is now a good time
to walk through
the tweaks I made
in the final Good
Idea presentation.
I'm so sorry. I'm
supposed to meet someone.
I, I kind of volunteered
for this thing
that, it was for the
church, so I said yes.
Of course. Have fun.
- William. Hi.
- Hi.
- Oh, good to see you.
- Morning.
Morning, Miss Brown.
- Hi. How are you?
- Good, thank you.
I, I thought we were
gonna meet at the Maple Morning.
We were, but I
was just walking by
and I figured I'd come see
how your mom was doing.
Okay.
If you prefer I
can walk back outside
and go literally next door
and then we don't
have to walk together.
Y- yeah. Okay.
You want me to leave?
No, no. Wait.
No. I'll leave.
- You'll leave?
- Wait. That's silly.
That's what I meant.
Hold on. Lemme back up.
I, you know, why don't I
just, I'll get my things
and we can, unless you
guys do you need help here?
- No, not at all.
- Go have fun.
Okay. Then I
will get my things.
Thank you guys.
It's good to see you
back on your feet.
- Thank you.
- You too.
- Thank you.
- Whoa!
this hot chocolate
looks like dessert.
Mm-hmm.
Guess this is
my breakfast now.
I don't really hear
a problem with that.
Okay. So where
are we starting?
With a thank you.
For what?
For helping me
with my project.
Oh wait, hold on. I
thought this was our project.
You know, the project
that you volunteered
me for without warning.
If I had asked you privately,
would you have said yes?
Mm-hmm.
Well, what if I can't
paint this picture anyway?
Oh no. Okay, good.
So Bob and Susan
have filled you in
on my early artistic
endeavors then.
Mm-hmm. They did indeed.
- Okay.
- Mm.
- Here's what we got.
- Good.
Now I've been working on this.
Right? But I'm kind of
behind on the painting.
You like it?
Yeah. It's, it's
really beautiful.
Now I'm open to suggestions.
If I'm being honest,
painting isn't my specialty,
but that's where you come in,
at least according
to your parents.
Well, I, I'm just
really excited to see
what you've done
so far in person.
Oh yeah. Yeah.
We'll get to that.
I mean, I know you gotta
get back to the store.
Oh, no, no.
I actually, actually kind of
cleared my schedule for this
because we don't
have a ton of time.
I mean, Christmas Eve is
only a week away, right?
Yes. One week.
Seven days, ha. It's crazy.
Yeah, and I, um, I
actually don't know
what my parents have told you,
but it's kind of been a while
since I've done any painting
so could kinda use all
the time I could get.
Y- yeah, that makes
sense too. Totally.
Yeah, unless, you know,
I understand if you
wanna get someone
with a little bit
more experience.
No, no, you're perfect.
For the mural.
Great. Um, well let's go.
Let's just go.
Go right now?
Yeah, let's go to your
shop. I mean, why not?
Why not? Yeah, totally.
I mean, we got the drinks.
Oh. But we could get
these to go I think.
I think I see, do you guys,
excuse me, I'm so sorry.
Do you guys have some to-go cups
- for these possibly?
- Of course. We're gonna go.
We're gonna go see it right now.
Yeah. Thank you so much.
Merry Christmas. Oh.
These are the last
of the new ones.
I'm sorry.
I should have asked before
I went all scallywag on you.
Before you went what?
Oh.
Yeah, I've been reading a
new Christmas novel we got in
and it takes place
in the mid 1800s.
I said I'm sorry
because I do know how hard
it's been with your ankle
and how much Christmas
means to you.
So if you want me to
change things back
to how you normally
have them, I will.
Scallywag.
Okay, now I know the
customer's always right,
but, um, can we just look
at a couple things together.
- Yes, of course.
- Yeah, um...
Oh. Here we go, hm.
Whoa, William, these
pieces are incredible.
And this space.
Yeah. My old boss
lets me use it.
You sound surprised.
No, no.
I just, um, honestly, I
didn't know what to expect.
That's a fair point.
Wow, you were really
downplaying yourself
saying, "Oh, I'm thinking
about branching out."
I mean, come on. These
pieces are amazing.
People would absolutely
pay for them.
You could make a living at
this, like a, a really good one.
I appreciate that.
But right now I'd be happy
with an order, as in one.
Okay.
Give me a day or two to let
me think about how I can help.
No, no. You already helped
me out with the flyer.
The flyer? Come on.
These pieces are way
bigger than that.
They're works of art.
Speaking of works of art.
Infamous mural, I hear
what's around here somewhere.
- Yes, that way.
- Okay.
- Okay.
- Wait, um-
Here we go.
Um...
Sorry. This is a block of wood.
Yes, I'm aware.
Is this, is this the
right block of wood?
Is there, I don't know,
where, where are the carvings?
So it started out
as a great idea.
- Right?
- Mm-hmm.
And I saw it in my
head and I sketched it,
but, um, I don't know.
Every time I start
I just freeze up.
But the sketch you
drew is beautiful.
I appreciate it but, you
know, it's just a picture.
Getting the same feeling
of peace carved into wood.
I've never done
anything this important.
- It's gonna be okay.
- You know what?
I know how busy you are with
the shop and your parents
and you've already helped me
out so much with that flyer.
You, you really don't need
to waste your time here.
And honestly, you really
don't wanna be a part
of me disappointing
the entire congregation
on Christmas Eve, so.
No, no. You know what?
I know what you're doing
and it's not gonna work.
You are trying to take
all the credit for this.
You wanna exclude me from
getting to put my name
on this one-of-a-kind
masterpiece
and I'm not gonna let it happen.
It's gonna be okay.
Sometimes you just
have to start.
Okay, let's see the sketch.
It is beautiful.
Okay, it's just an idea and
you don't have to take it,
but what if I deepened
the horizon a little bit?
Maybe painted in
some cooler tones.
Hm. I think I like
that a lot, yeah.
I, I, I just think
it could really create
some beautiful contrast with
the warm glow of the starlight.
I don't know. What do you think?
Like it's leading us in.
Yeah. Like it's leading us in.
All right. What
other ideas you got?
I don't understand
why I can't ask her
if she had a nice
time with William.
Because she's a grown woman
and she can tell us if
and when she's ready to.
Okay.
But I can focus on the
project and see how that went.
I can be nonchalant.
- Swashbuckler.
- It was scallywag.
Morning guys.
- Oh, hi.
- Good morning.
You look very
cheery this morning.
I wonder, well, we
were wondering how the project's going.
Is that a new outfit?
I love the scarf.
Okay.
William and I had a very
fun time last night.
We worked on the
project for the church
and then he showed me some
of his pieces of furniture
that are beautiful.
Um, is that what you
were looking for?
Thank you. Now I'm happy.
Okay. I've gotta go.
Um, I'm gonna get
breakfast with Erin,
but then I'll be back to
help out with everything, so.
Take your time.
Okay. Love you guys.
Love you.
You came up with that?
I, I love that campaign.
And the adorable dogs.
I think I still buy those chips
because of that commercial.
Well that's part of my job.
It's what my partner and I do,
you know, guiding people
in the right direction,
that whole thing.
And is this a partner as in...
No, this is a strictly
business relationship.
And before you say anything,
he is so happy
with his girlfriend
who he just proposed
to, by the way.
How'd you know
what I was gonna say?
Mm.
Because I remember how you loved
the romance books
in the bookstore
and I know you too well
to not know where
your mind jumped to.
This is true.
You're a good friend.
I do still love a
good romance novel.
Do you see the
ones we just got in?
Of course. I have
your mom on speed dial.
I know it may sound ridiculous,
but before I moved back, I
really missed that place.
- The bookstore?
- Yeah.
Maple River Books,
it's one of the very few
independent booksellers
still around.
And I would know, I look
for them wherever I visit.
That place, it's, um, special.
Yeah, it is. Yes.
Anyway, speaking of,
I should probably get
back and help my mom.
Just check in with her.
- Okay.
- I know.
But I've really missed this.
And we should, we
should do it again.
I know, me too.
I'm sorry. I'm not going to
Lighting of the Village tonight.
What? Oh no, we're
gonna miss you.
My dad is announcing and he
has been practicing his lines.
It's been so cute.
Bob? No!
I can't believe I'm
gonna miss that.
He's gonna do great.
Yeah, I think so.
Can we, um, can we
grab the check please
when you get a chance?
And this is on
me. Welcome home.
Oh my gosh. Thank you, Erin.
You're welcome.
It's in the biography section.
Well, would you
listen to this?
These are not your
usual orchestral carols.
I am broadening my horizons.
How was breakfast with Erin?
It was good. Yeah, it was
really fun to catch up with her.
It's been a while.
Um, where's dad?
He's in the back
practicing for tonight.
Wait, I thought he just had
to count down to the lighting.
He gets nervous. Just
wants to do a good job.
But we'll close early so he
can get down there and prepare
and get a bench up front for me.
Hmm, you know, if you had
someone to cover you two,
then you wouldn't
have to close early,
and it is the first rule
of marketing: consistency.
I know that is true for
the rest of the world,
but things run differently here.
You've just forgotten.
Plus the entire town's gonna
be down for the lighting
so we wouldn't have
any customers anyway.
Oh, I forgot to tell you.
Williams's here.
He's working on some
things in the back.
Oh, um, well, I should
probably go check on him,
the podium, 'cause that's
what he's working on.
So I'll go, uh, take
a peeksy-weeksy.
Hi.
Hey.
Okay, so your mom's wooden
wreath is ready to hang.
And what do you think?
It looks amazing.
- Right?
- But I, I hope
that hasn't taken you
from our other project.
Actually, I, uh, I stayed
up after you left last night.
I worked on it for hours.
- Did you?
- Yeah.
It's not quite ready for
you to start painting yet,
but hoping by tomorrow.
Wow. Just like that.
Had some good motivation.
Oh, um, I found this while
I was working on the podium.
What is this?
Oh, this is my
mom's handwriting.
Oh, These are her readings
from Christmas Story Night.
Oh, she always finds the
most beautiful stories.
They're so poetic.
Wait.
- What?
- I recognize this one.
I think she said the book was
called "The Lost Shepherd."
Rosemary? Oh, there you are.
Um, hey, look at this.
Look what William did.
All ready for story night.
Isn't that something?
Well, I assume you're
gonna be there tonight,
but I just wanted to ask
William if he wanted to join us
for the lighting of
the square later.
What? I'm announcing
and William is a friend.
Dad. I'm sure William has...
I'd love to. If that's okay.
Uh, yeah, sure. Why not?
We're all going
together. Awesome.
One more rehearsal.
I'd like to welcome everyone to,
welcome to our annual lighting.
Welcome to our annual lighting.
- Yes. That's it.
- I'll grab my purse.
- Thank you.
- I bet you did.
- Just kidding. Now, now.
- Okay.
I'm so sorry that took so long.
You would not believe that line.
- Thank you.
- Oh. Oh, that looks so good.
- Cheers to Christmas.
- To Christmas.
Thank you.
Sweetheart. I'm gonna go get
a seat 'cause of my ankle.
Oh, okay. Do you need a hand?
No, no, I'm fine.
You two just visit.
Okay.
Okay. This is amazing.
Have you never been here?
I mean, I've walked
through the village
during Christmas time, but
never for the lighting.
How come?
Christmas time is busy
for custom furniture.
You know, I was always
trying to finish a deadline
or, you know, get
something done.
Plus it's, it's not as
much fun to come alone.
Yeah, no, I get that.
I, um, I'm usually
stuck in the office,
you know, tying up loose ends,
which typically means
staying late on Christmas Eve
and then driving in
early Christmas morning.
What about this year?
You gonna be able
to stay for church?
Um, not really sure yet.
I only ask because, if not,
then I can take all the credit
for what is sure to
be a masterpiece.
Oh, right, right, right.
Hello Maple River.
I think it's, uh, I
think it's about to start.
- Come on, come.
- All right. Well.
Thank you all for coming
down to help us celebrate
a very special once-a-year
event in our community.
Welcome to the annual lighting
of the Maple River
Christmas tree.
Woo.
Is everyone ready
Yeah!
Let's count it down together.
Five...
Four, three, two, one.
- Woo!
- Woo!
Christmas in Maple
River is officially here.
Right, Santa?
h*, h*, h*, h*!
Merry Christmas.
Um, thanks for, uh,
for coming tonight.
Well, technically it was
your dad that invited me.
Only 'cause he
beat me to the punch.
Wait, look at
those muffins. Oh my gosh.
You owe me one
after all of the work that
I'm doing on the mural.
Let's do it.
Okay.
"Christmas Count" book.
No results? Hmm.
"Present from Santa."
"First Christmas."
There once
was a new mother
who made a long list
of glitter and garland
and things not to be missed.
Her daughter just giggled
and watched with delight
as her mother declared,
"We'll make Christmas
just right."
They curled up with
blankets and jammies and tea
and Christmas
turned out perfect.
You see, snowflakes fell
and the mom whispered low,
"This was the best first
Christmas I'll ever know."
Morning, Mom.
Morning, honey.
Come on. Sit down.
Look what William found
when he was working on
the podium the other day.
Wow.
I grabbed them
because I thought it could
be a good marketing strategy
to compile all the
books from the authors
who have contributed
to Story Night
and dedicate a little section
to them in the bookstore.
That's a, a great idea.
I thought so too,
which is why I went to research
and try to find the books
and was kind of surprised to
discover that they don't exist.
Mom, why didn't you tell anyone
that you were the author?
I never thought that
Christmas Story Night
would become a tradition, I...
We had just opened a bookstore
and we were trying to
raise publicity and,
and I didn't even think
my stories were very good.
It would've looked very bad
for, you know, the bookstore
owner to be a horrible writer.
But Mom, look at
these. They were a hit.
Why, why didn't you
tell anyone afterwards?
Writing these stories
was never about me.
It was for the town and
for you to always have.
There was, um,
there was one in here
that I read last night.
- "The First Christmas."
- Yeah.
Was
this your first one?
I was a part of
a new mom's group.
Erin's mom was in it too.
We were very excited, obviously,
but we were really nervous
about raising babies.
So all of these,
all of these stories were
personal to the town every year.
I always try to tell a story
that gives hope and faith
and maybe a little bit of love
to take home at Christmas.
Why didn't you tell me sooner?
If I had, it would've
very quickly become
my story night and not ours.
Ever since you
were six years old,
you've been helping
me to prepare
and I wouldn't trade working
and planning with
you for anything
'cause then you, my, my
brilliant marketing daughter
would've made it about me.
And, um, I'm not complaining.
I know that you work very hard,
but if I only get you
for a couple of days
at Christmas time,
I wanna spend that time with you
doing what we love.
And these last few
days have reminded me
that there is nothing
quite like having you home.
Aw, Mom. I love you.
And I'm so, so proud of you.
I love you too, honey.
Always with the phone.
Everything okay?
Yes.
To my mom. I say
congratulations.
We got another RSVP
for Story Night.
But to my author, I say, wow,
I really hope you're writing.
No peeking.
Sorry.
Seriously, get back to
your painting, da Vinci.
I can't help it.
It's so beautiful.
It's gonna transport
them to Bethlehem.
You really think so?
Yeah.
It's not even done and
already it just fills me
with so much peace
just looking at it.
Wow, I, um,
I just painted myself, didn't I?
Oh, yeah, you did.
- Great.
- I got you.
Uh, do you wanna take a break?
Sure.
- Yeah?
- Yeah.
Yeah.
Are you still thinking
about your mom?
You know, they should really
make an instructional manual
on being a kid when
you're an adult.
I'm serious.
I mean, how to balance growing
up and having your own life,
but not losing that
connection you had
with your parents
when you were young
And?
And it does make me
take a little harder
look at myself.
I try to reevaluate
around Christmas.
Of course you do.
I know it sounds
like a work project,
but, I don't know, it's, it
helps me to get perspective
on where I've been
and where I'm going.
It always used to be so clear.
And this year?
Not so much.
Try not looking at it
like a to-do to check off.
Hey, I'm serious.
Just try being still.
Oh, speaking of to-dos,
I have to go pick up the
invites for Story Night
and drop some off too.
Oh, sorry. This is your cocoa.
Um, but you know what?
How would you feel about maybe
bringing some of these chairs
by the store tonight?
- Sure. But-
- That would be great.
And maybe this is like darling
end table and everything too.
Thank you for the cocoa.
- Thank you.
- Yeah.
- See you.
- Yeah.
So much for being still.
Hey, do you mind if I
were to set these right here
maybe just in case people
wanted to pick them up?
Thank you so much.
And then can I also grab a
cappuccino from you to go?
Thank you.
Jeff. Hi.
- You didn't like it?
- Didn't like what?
Uh, the new story beats
for the Good Idea
Coffee commercial.
I sent you them yesterday.
You were supposed to
review and revise.
Right.
Look, I'm sorry I haven't been
the best sounding
board recently.
It's okay.
I just want this presentation
to be our best yet.
No, it will be.
And I'm gonna go over everything
with a fine-toothed comb.
I promise.
And if there are
any inconsistencies, I will catch them.
One more reason
why I'm counting the
days till you get back.
I'll be home
before you know it.
Okay, I gotta run. Bye.
Oh, I am so sorry, Rosemary.
It looks like I interrupted
a moment of silence.
No, no, not at all.
I just was hanging
flyers for Story Night
and I got a work call
and thought I'd take a
moment to clear my head.
Yeah, the same thing happened
to me about 20 years ago.
And as you can see,
I'm still here.
Uh, may I?
Absolutely.
Any idea on what's
occupying that mind of yours?
Oh no. I'm, I'm good.
It's just, um,
well, that's not exactly true.
I guess there are a
few things on my mind.
You know, I
remember a young girl
that would spend many a
day in here in the quiet,
especially that summer
before she left for college.
Hmm.
And she'd tell me that
she was here for stillness.
I said that?
Oh, I used it at least
once or twice for a sermon.
You once told me
that sitting in here
helped you reconnect
with yourself.
It must have worked because
I felt so grounded back then.
You still can, you know?
But what if I find
my stillness again
and I'm still confused?
And what if
you're not confused?
That's why we owe it to
ourselves to have these moments.
This is your time with God
to sit quietly
and look at your life
and see what and where
you want it to be.
How's the Bethlehem
mural coming along?
It's, um,
it's really special.
Surprising, but really special.
Well, I, I really look forward
to seeing what you've done.
Thanks.
All right. Well I'll
leave you to it.
Thanks.
Good morning.
Hi. Thank you so much
for coming in so early.
Of course. Happy to help.
You did promise me
breakfast though. Right?
- Yes.
- How can I help?
Um, okay, so all
of this furniture,
I would love to arrange it
in kind of like this circle,
maybe like little reading nook.
Okay.
This is really nice.
Where did you find these?
Uh, William Tandy
made them, actually.
William Tandy from our church?
Same William Tandy you
are making the mural with?
Yes.
Ah, just upped my salary.
I'm gonna need breakfast
and the story behind
that smile of yours.
There is no story.
We are in a bookstore.
We're surrounded by stories.
Um, okay.
We have been spending
some time together
working on the mural
and yeah, we have fun.
But that's it. Okay?
That's, that's the end
of it. End of story.
Yeah. Not really feeling that.
I think I want the longer
version of the story.
There is no longer
version, Erin.
Why don't you let me, romance
book expert, decide that?
I just, I think you're
gonna be disappointed.
Indulge me.
Erin, I own a company that
I've worked so hard to build.
I can't just walk away.
What?
Nobody asked you to walk
away from your company.
You say, "The end." I
hear, "The beginning."
Tell me I'm wrong.
Um, I have to finish
opening the store.
How convenient.
No fun.
Hello?
Oh yeah.
I, uh, I thought I had
till the end of next week
to make a decision.
I see.
I guess that makes sense
with that many orders.
Well I appreciate that and
for the generous offer.
All right, Merry
Christmas to you too.
I forgot to ask you, how was
the lighting of the square?
Your dad said you
all went together.
Mm-hmm.
It was lovely and
William was lovely
because that's what
you really care about.
But I'm still going
back to Philly.
I get it. Two
different worlds.
Bah humbug.
I think this is how you
should think about it:
'tis the season too spread
joy and to love thy neighbor.
Well isn't that
right off of a Christmas card?
Straight from Santa.
I love Story Night.
And I love that your
mom still does it
after all these years.
Now that is a collection of
stories I would wanna buy.
You know what? That
just, that gave me an idea.
Ah...
All right, well, before
we close out our meeting,
we just have a few more items.
Next up is our new
mural for the altar.
Are you two on schedule?
Uh, yeah, we
should be done soon.
Rosemary is extremely talented.
Oh, please.
Well, it's because I'm
working with a gifted artist.
All right.
And so the last item is
the Christmas Eve prayers.
Now I could see here
that some of you have
signed up, which is great.
And, and for those
of you who haven't,
William, I'm looking at
you, it's not too late.
I'm better behind the scenes.
Oh no, you should absolutely
do it. He'd be great.
You'd be great.
You should do it.
Oh, I actually, I don't
see your name either
on the list, Rosemary.
Oh, no, actually.
I'm not sure that I'm
gonna be able to make it
in time for Christmas Eve.
Oh.
What Rosemary isn't
telling everybody
is that her company is,
has a huge presentation due
just before Christmas.
It could be their
biggest campaign yet.
And Bob and I couldn't
be more proud of her.
Thanks, Mom.
Okay, well thank
you all for your time.
Look, you, you are part
of giving Maple River
what is quickly becoming
an extraordinarily special
Christmas Eve service this year.
Truly. Thank you all so much.
Well, we have brownies outside.
I say we take care of those.
Hey, honey.
Oh, hey, Mom. Um...
How you doing, honey?
Good, uh, finalizing the
playlist for Story Night
and checking off a few other
things from the to-do list.
Well, we appreciate everything
you're doing, and, um,
how's everything going
with your real job?
I haven't really been
the best partner this week,
but, uh, you know, I'll fix
it when Story Night's over.
I'm sure everything
will be okay.
Hey, um, how did Erin do today?
What do you mean?
You said she
worked with you, right?
Oh, yeah. At the store.
Um, she did great.
She loves that place.
Always has. Almost as
much as you and dad do.
Why do you ask?
Just curious.
Okay, I'm gonna go to bed.
Don't forget to get some sleep.
- Okay?
- Okay.
Muah. Love you, good night.
This was the important
thing you needed me for?
Yes, well, I figured
you could use a break
and maybe some cookies.
Hi, I am picking up an
order for Rosemary Brown.
- Wow.
- Thank you.
Need to get that?
No, it's fine. Um,
thank you so much.
Uh, actually, I also
need to place an order
for a hundred more
- One cocoa.
- Ooh, thank you.
Um, sorry I couldn't make
it over there earlier today.
That's okay, um,
I actually finished. Even
did some of the painting.
Wow!
So you really don't wanna share
any of the credit, do you?
Just figured you got a
lot to do before you leave.
Right. Before I leave.
Is that why you're not
in a very festive mood?
The company that offered
me a full-time position,
they called me yesterday.
Job's still mine if I want it.
You don't though.
Well, I didn't,
but they need an answer
by tomorrow, apparently.
And honestly, uh,
it was a lot easier
to think I could start
my own furniture company
with you here in Maple River.
But your life's not here.
I, I can still help, you
know, when I'm back home
and, and honestly
just, I can see what I-
Rosemary.
Come on.
I know you mean that.
Or at least you
want to mean that.
But when you're back
in Philadelphia,
you're not gonna have time for
me and my furniture company.
You're gonna be working
on big campaigns.
I wouldn't ask that of you.
Sorry.
I've already declined this,
I, I really have to take it.
Yep.
You know what, I'll, um,
I'll just see you later.
Hey, Jeff.
William?
I just took it
over to the church.
Oh, um, it must look amazing.
Pretty incredible
what you can do
when you just start, right?
I should get going.
Uh, Rosemary, wait.
- Um, about earlier.
- No, it's, no, it's okay.
You were just being honest.
No, no, I,
what I didn't say is
working with you this past
week has been inspiring.
You are inspiring. Okay?
So whether I take that job
or risk starting
my own business,
I have sketched and designed
and I have had more
ideas in the last week
than I've had in years.
Um,
I, I really have to
get to the store.
There's, um, there's so much
to do before Story
Night and, um,
are you gonna be there?
Wouldn't miss it.
Okay.
Thank you so much.
Mom.
I love this new look.
I'm feeling extra
festive this year.
And it is busy in here today.
Yeah, it's been this
way since we opened.
We've also had more RSVPs.
Well that is what happens
when people find out
that we have a talented
author in town.
I'm gonna go help
some customers.
Ah, already taken care of,
Meet the newest employee
of Maple River Books.
Oh my gosh. I'm so
excited for you guys.
Mostly because this
means that you guys
will be able to come
visit me in Philly.
That's the plan. Right, honey?
Yeah.
Sitting at home and not working
really gave me some
free time to think.
So, uh, I have decided
to start embracing change
starting with Erin.
I've only been waiting for
them to ask me my entire life.
Oh, sorry. One second.
Jeff. Oh, please don't hate me.
Never.
What's wrong? Everything okay?
Yeah, no, everything
is great actually.
My mom is back to normal
and the Christmas
rush is in full swing
and they even hired my
friend Erin to help.
As in they finally
have a real employee?
I'm a real employee.
No, you're their
daughter who loves them
and helps them
when they need it.
You, my friend, you own a
thriving company in Philadelphia
and we need you back here soon.
How's your other
friend? William?
There's, uh, there's
nothing to tell.
Like you said, I own a thriving
company in Philadelphia
and I'm needed there.
Listen, I'll, I'll get
the changes back to you
within the hour
and I have the Christmas
Story Event tomorrow,
but I'll be back in
Philly after that
and we'll have plenty of
time to go over the pitch
before Sam gets there.
Okay, uh, that
works. See you soon.
Okay, bye.
Well this is your day.
What time should we leave?
As early as possible.
Okay. Oh, good morning, honey.
Morning. Big day.
Thanks to you.
Please tell me that
wasn't your dinner.
Nope. Breakfast.
That's it. I'm making
my girls a hot meal.
You wanna talk about anything?
Um, yeah, actually.
Uh, so, 9:00 a.m., cookies
are gonna be delivered
and then 10:15 I'm
thinking Erin's gonna come
and help me set up,
which will be great.
That's not what I
was talking about.
Um, I was talking about William.
You know, when I started
writing our Christmas stories,
- I think it was-
- Oh, uh,
I have something for
you speaking of stories.
Oh my goodness. What?
How did you do this?
And like I said, the
stories deserve to be compiled
and now we finally
have something
to show how much
we appreciate you.
I was thinking that we could
start taking pre-orders
in the fall and then they'll
be ready to sell next year.
As long as you promise to be
here and organize everything,
I'm in.
Rosemary, I, um, I
dunno what to say.
I'm glad you like it.
Thank you.
No, I love it. You've written
this just in a great pace.
The rhymes are very key.
I love the story, the
cadence, the timing's down,
the words are
- filling out your pages.
- You're just saying that
to be nice to me.
Because you're
great every year.
Either of you seen William?
Uh, no, we haven't.
I'm sure he'll be here soon.
Okay. You ready?
Yeah.
- You're gonna be great.
- Thanks.
Love you.
Hi, everyone.
Thank you all so
much for joining us
for another Christmas
Story Night.
My mother has been hosting
this tradition for 20 years,
but what I recently learned, um,
but I recently learned
that she hasn't been
reading an excerpt
from the books of known authors.
She penned every story herself.
So this year, as
with every year,
she is sharing a piece of her
heart and giving it to us.
I introduce you to my mother
and author, Susan Brown.
Thank you.
Oh.
My title this year is
"Gifts of the Season."
"There once was a mother
full of mission and lists,
a life full of structure,
no check marks to miss.
She's stuck to her plans and
the paths that she'd known,
afraid to wander where
Christmas winds moan.
But her daughter, now grown
with a mind of her own,
had taught her that change
is how love is shown.
That Christmas season,
with no need for more,
the best gift was her
daughter there at her door.
And with one final glance
and a kiss on her brow,
to her daughter she said,
'Take the leap, start now.'
Because the best kind of gift,
no matter how smart,
is one wrapped in love
and tied with a heart.
To all this Christmas, I
offer this precious part:
take courage to follow
the call of your heart.
Merry Christmas."
- Aw.
- You've done so well.
Thank you, Erin.
Go talk to your mom.
Thank you guys
so much for coming.
Wasn't that great?
I'm so proud of you.
Thank you.
Oh, Mom, that was beautiful.
Thank you.
I believe in you.
Follow love your heart.
She's really out done herself.
I'm so proud of
everything she's...
Oh, Rosemary, there you are.
Do you think William
would consider selling us these pieces?
They'd make it wonderful
addition around here.
Yeah. I, I think
he'd be honored.
Let me just, lemme
go check with him.
- Okay.
- Thanks.
Hi. You're here.
I, uh, I wanna
give you something.
Just a, a thank you for
helping me this week.
You didn't have to do that.
I actually had something
I wanted to show you too.
Hey, sorry. Excuse me.
There's someone who
called the store line.
He said it's an emergency.
His name's Jeffrey.
I don't wanna interrupt but-
- Oh.
- It was pretty urgent.
Um, yeah. Okay.
I, I'm so sorry.
William, can we talk to
you over here for a sec?
Yeah.
What do you wanna talk about?
We were wondering
if you would sell us
some of your pieces.
Which ones?
All of them.
Yeah.
Um, yeah.
Yeah. That'd be,
that'd be great.
- Yeah?
- Yeah.
- Thank you.
- Yeah. Thank you guys.
That'll be great.
That'll be great.
You're so talented.
When did you get back?
Late last night.
Sorry I had to
pull you away early.
I did try to call you
and text and email.
Yeah, I know. I turned my
phone off for the reading.
Listen, I'm, I'm so sorry.
I know I dropped
the ball last week.
This is not on you.
Okay. A little on you.
I, I'm glad you got
to spend time at home.
You've covered for this office
every day since we opened.
I just didn't want
to tell Sam no
when she asked to move up
the meeting this morning.
Yeah, no, um, you
did the right thing.
If we want this campaign,
we have to show Sam
that Good Idea Coffee
is our top priority.
I actually spent the morning
going over the pitch deck
and I have a new draft that
I'm gonna email you right now.
Great.
Um, I'll go make sure we're
all set up downstairs, okay?
Okay, cool. I'm gonna
email this to you.
Hey, you okay?
Yeah, yeah. No, I'm good.
- Okay.
- I'm good.
May you always be
guided in the right direction.
I'm sure it is
quite the masterpiece
the two of you have created.
Thank you, pastor.
I never said that about
anything I've made before.
I'm really proud of this one.
Wouldn't exist without
Rosemary though.
Did you tell her that?
I tried.
You know, I've been making
custom pieces my whole life.
This one's different.
Hmm.
Let's just say I've learned
a lot from the experience.
I'm sure.
I'm sure.
Any more thoughts
on the job offer?
I'm pretty sure I know
which direction I'm going in.
Any chance that
direction leads you
to speaking later
at the service?
You never quit, man.
You know I don't.
Thank you for that.
Our goal is to
show a clear message
highlighting the familiar
strengths of your brand,
now incorporating
that Good Idea Coffee
is always there when you need it
to help get you through the day.
On brand. People need us.
Is there anything
you'd like to add?
This isn't right.
E- excuse me?
Maybe we should take a moment.
No, I'm sorry.
I, I know what we pitched you,
but our motto has always been
to guide people in
the right direction.
It's, it's on
everything that we do.
But this isn't the
right direction.
And someone special to me
made me realize
that this past week,
whether he realized it or not.
What are you doing?
Okay. Just hear me out.
Why give your customers a,
"Just get through the day,"
If you could give them a
glimpse into possibility,
into what life could be like
if you leaned into stillness
and embraced connection with
yourself and with others.
A, a message that says, "This
is the life that I want."
We could help people
say yes to Mondays
and to quiet mornings,
not by doing the exact same
thing that we've always done,
but by guiding people
towards something better,
something more meaningful.
We can invite people to
step forward with us.
Good Idea Coffee:
embracing connection
and stillness.
Well, I'm supposed to get
going to hear the other pitch,
but that won't be necessary.
I do believe I was guided
in the right direction
by coming here today.
The campaign is yours.
I'll have contracts sent
over right after Christmas.
Why don't we make a date
for our next meeting?
Merry Christmas, everyone.
Merry Christmas.
Well, this is the moment
that we've been waiting for.
I'd like to present to
you "Bethlehem at Night"
by William Tandy
and Rosemary Brown.
Thank you both.
It goes without saying how
very grateful the church is
for your remarkable
talent and your time.
Well, as our
celebration continues,
it is our tradition to
ask a few of our members
to share their
prayers for Christmas.
Erin, if you'd please.
On this Christmas Eve,
we are so very grateful
for our answered prayer
to become parents.
Oh! Congratulations.
Oh, that's wonderful!
We pray for the courage
to raise our child
with grace, hope,
faith, and love.
Mm-hmm. Thank you, Erin.
William?
That's a tough
follow up.
Congrats.
Um, as most of you know, I, uh,
I like to stay
behind the scenes,
but lately I've been
learning about taking chances
mostly on myself.
So here it goes.
Um, I'd like to thank God
for the people who
showed up in my life,
even when I didn't
know I needed them.
One in particular.
She taught me to take
a chance on myself.
This art piece was my idea,
but it would not have
been possible without her.
My prayer is that one day she
knows what she did for me,
for our community.
Is there, uh,
time for one more?
Of course, Rosemary.
I've spent a lot of
years building my company
and I'm so grateful for it.
But, um, recently
my heart was open
to something new.
Well, someone knew.
He taught me something I didn't
realize I'd lost: direction.
And not, not the kind of
directions you give each other,
although I have been known
to give those as well
even if people maybe
don't wanna hear them.
But, um, to be directed to peace
and joy and maybe to love.
And isn't that what
Christmas is about?
A light in the dark, a
knowing in the stillness.
So I guess my prayer
is one of gratitude
to God for leading me back home.
- Okay.
- Amen.
That was beautiful,
Rosemary. Thank you.
And thank you, God, for our
little Christmas miracle.
Well, I'll see some of you
for our Christmas
service tomorrow,
but for those of you traveling,
have a wonderful Christmas
and I'll see you next week.
Merry Christmas.
- That was awesome.
- Yeah.
- Thank you, Mom.
- Merry Christmas.
- Merry Christmas.
- Beautiful.
Thank you, sir.
Not Bad.
Not bad. I think
you missed a spot.
Actually. I think
that was your section.
- No, no.
- Great carving though.
I don't know if you
noticed that detail.
But do you see how the
horizon really deepens?
I think I just
need to get my coat.
- Really?
- Come on.
I'm thinking spotlight,
but that might be too much.
You can tell me.
Thank you for what
you said back there.
It meant a lot to me.
Thank you for what you said.
I closed the Good
Idea Coffee campaign.
Congratulations.
I kind of owe
it to you though.
Why?
The angel you made me, which
was beautiful, by the way,
it reminded me that
my company motto
has always been guiding
people in the right direction.
But somewhere along the line,
I forgot that applies to me too.
So I made an executive decision.
Oh, you did, huh?
I am opening a
satellite office right here in Maple River,
and this division is
going to specialize
in helping people bring their
dream businesses to life.
Are you serious?
Yeah, I think, I think I
can make a difference here.
I certainly know a guy
who could use the help.
You do?
You are looking
at the proud owner
of William Tandy
Custom Furniture.
Oh, I'm really
glad I came back
because that name
could use some help.
I'm sorry.
You know I can be a little
bossy when I like an idea.
Oh, trust me, I've noticed.
You think you
can stand spending
a little bit more time with me?
I think that sounds like the
best Christmas present ever.
Merry Christmas, William.
Merry Christmas, Rosemary.
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Christmas on Every Page (2025)
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