The fire's crackling and
the popcorn's strung
Bulbs a twinkling and
the stockings are hung
So much fun doing
Christmas by the book
How are you doing?
I'm a little nervous,
if I'm honest.
I haven't done one
of these before.
You'll be great.
You know your material
frontwards and backwards.
You're genuine.
You've got this.
Thanks.
Remind me never to release
a book at the same time
as a local bestselling author.
Hey Adie!
This is going to be fun.
Come on. Let's get started,
shall we?
Adeline Wilson!
Welcome to the podcast!
It's great to finally meet you!
Thank you for having me.
Please call me Adie.
Adie, oh! Besties already!
Listen, we're live, so let's
just jump right in. Okay?
This book is quite humbling.
And here I thought having
gifts bought and wrapped
by December 23rd was
crushing Christmas.
It's not meant to add more
stress to the season,
but to alleviate it by
taking away the guess work
with tried and true methods.
You have chapters in here
dedicated to decorating,
hosting, cooking.
You've meticulously planned out
every detail of the holiday
season starting November 1st.
I realize there's often
debate about Christmas prep
before Thanksgiving, but coming
at it from the point of view
of large families or homes
that need a little more time
with the financial
implications of the season,
it makes sense to start early.
And speaking of the financial
aspects of the holiday season,
you have a chapter here called
"Christmas on a Budget".
Why did you feel the
need to add this?
It was important.
The message is that
Christmas doesn't need to be
elaborate to be special.
And that making the effort
is truly what matters.
Hmmm.
Now you know a little something
about that, don't you?
Umm...
We're live!
Um, as a child, Christmases in
my family were quite simple.
Yes.
And sometimes there was no
Christmas at all, right?
Which is why I try to enjoy
it to the fullest now.
I've three Christmas trees
in my home this year,
all decorated in
different themes.
Your book tour starts
here, next week in Washington.
And you have twelve U.S. stops
along the way, right.
Safe travels and I wish
your book all the success.
I'm Trish with the "Bumble
Bee Podcast" here with
Adeline Wilson, author of
"A Christmas Season Handbook".
Get your copies today by
using the link below.
Bye bye for now!
Ah, I have to catch this.
- Bye.
- Bye.
I'm so sorry she went off script
from the pre-approved questions.
It's fine.
Is it also fine that we've added
an additional stop to the tour?
Twelve. As in
"The Twelve Days of Christmas".
It's on all the
bookstore posters
advertising the signings.
I know.
It's just that this store's
been selected to host
Christmas Eve Reading
of "Twas the Night
Before Christmas",
so they're getting
quite a bit of press.
And since Red Ribbon Publishing
is a major sponsor of the event,
we thought we could
piggy-back off that.
So I guess I don't
have much of a choice.
Which store is it?
It's the Alpine
Book Store in Illinois.
Okay.
These should be on the front
table for the holiday season.
Do you really think this
book signing's a good idea?
Ah, yeah.
We need all the holiday events
we can get before year end.
But we're already hosting the
on Christmas Eve.
That's creating a buzz.
We are up against the
big box stores. Okay.
No buzz is too big!
Wow...
Your bookkeeping skills
are truly a wonder.
Thank you.
Wasn't a compliment.
Garth, look.
I hate to be the one
to tell you this, but
if you don't have a successful
Christmas selling season,
I don't see the store
being here next year.
It's not that bad.
No, it's worse.
You're bankrolling this
company on savings
and haven't made money
in almost two years.
I mean, this store is just a
sucking sound on its best days.
I get it.
Do you?
Look, baby brother, while the
rest of us have had to slum it
in Corporate America, your
Olympic athlete days have
afforded you the luxury
and the flexibility
of just doing what you love.
Which is great, but if you
don't start taking the business
side more seriously, like
in this changing climate...
Dude, you're going to end up
in a nine to five office job
that will literally k*ll you.
I just don't feel the
need to turn the store
into something that it isn't.
Selling other items like
blankets and knickknacks...
I know. I'm not saying to expand
the inventory beyond books but,
you know, people would
want to stay here longer
if there was like a cafe
attached serving drinks.
We'd need a food operating
license for that.
Just another headache.
Okay. Well, I don't know.
A seating area maybe?
I have a seating area.
That's your seating area? Okay.
Ah, maybe a more
comfortable seating area?
Perhaps one with furniture
that wasn't salvaged
from the dumpsters out back.
First you say we're in
trouble financially,
and then you give me gears
for trying to save money?
Just, hear me out. Okay?
I've been putting
some ideas to paper...
I know you don't like
this kind of thing, but,
it could help.
Actually, I got
to take this one.
Of course you do.
There she is!
Future doctor on the screen!
Hey, Dad.
Hi, Luna.
Aunt Mel! You're there already?
Yeah. I thought I come
a week early this year.
I thought your dad could
use some help with
Reading event prep.
Probably a good idea.
I'm going to ignore
the implication.
How did the exam go?
Good. I think.
Maybe. I don't know.
I should have studied more.
That would have been impossible.
You barely slept all week.
I can sleep when I
home for the holidays.
And miss all the epic
holiday fun, not a chance.
I got the ski
bindings ready to go.
Do you know how many
people get injured
on the slopes every
holiday season?
Nope. And don't go into
all the gory details
like you did when I wanted
to buy a trampoline.
You've already broken every
bone in your body anyway.
Not this one.
Three more exams,
then I'll be home.
Okay, honey, go crush your
goals and then we ski.
Bye Luna.
I'm not so sure if med
school's such a good idea.
She was always so
up for anything.
And now she's so cautious.
She's sensible and smart and
you're going to need her
to have a doctor's salary to
look after you in old age.
Because I'm not taking you
and your cat menagerie in.
Hey, I don't even
have one cat now.
Oh, they will come, trust me.
Once you move into the trailer
park with Uncle Melvin,
cats will find you.
That's why you need this.
Fine. Let's give this
business proposal a look.
Doesn't the publishing house
normally ship the books
to the stores in advance?
They would have if you
were flying across,
but since you're driving,
they wanted to save
on shipping costs.
Great.
Look, Adie, we both
know this book isn't
the company's main focus
this holiday season.
That's why they
assigned it to me.
The company was excited about
it when I pitched the idea.
Three years ago.
Enthusiasm over a project in
this industry is fleeting.
The book took time.
I didn't want to rush it.
I know and I believe in it.
I know we can make it a success.
I can't stress enough how
much my job depends on that.
Oh, no pressure.
Well, I guess I'm off.
Drive safe! Good luck!
Check in!
We wish you
a Merry Christmas
We wish you
a Merry Christmas
We wish you
a Merry Christmas
And a Happy New Year
"The Christmas Season
Handbook" by Adeline Wilson.
Chapter one.
We wish you
a Merry Christmas
And a Happy New Year
So bring us
some figgy pudding
So bring us
some figgy pudding
Hi.
Do you know where
the washroom is?
Thanks.
Good tidings we bring
To you and your kin
We wish you
a Merry Christmas
And a Happy New Year
We wish you
a Merry Christmas
"It's all downhill from here".
The owner thought it was clever.
Miss Wilson!
You're Mr. Bowman?
Let me guess. I don't look
like the scholarly type?
Rest assured I've read all
the classics cover to cover.
That's a shame.
Modern literature has
so much more to offer.
Such as your work?
No.
My work is a how-to manual,
written for practical
and pragmatic purposes.
I leave the fanciful
to the fiction writers.
Practical?
Sounds like a polite
way of saying boring.
Excuse me?
I said we are so excited
to have you here!
My sister is inside setting
up for your signing.
Go on in.
Oh, sh**t! I am late for Luna.
Bring these inside for me?
Thanks.
Some help here...
Thanks.
Oh! Adeline Wilson
I'm so sorry, I
thought you were Garth.
Oh, he went to get Luna?
Right. Apologies for that.
I'd like to say we're not
always this disorganized, but,
well that would be a lie.
It's really no problem.
I'm early.
Wouldn't have mattered.
Where should I set these?
Ah... Just... You know what?
Just put them over here on
the counter. Thank you.
Oh. I'll take those
from you as well.
I can only imagine my brother
made quite an impression.
He didn't strike me
as my number one fan.
Pay him no mind.
Structure and organization
make him break out into hives.
I can see that.
We've set you up in the
back for your event.
Just make yourself
at home, okay.
Peter! Hi, yeah, yeah, no,
ah, everything's on schedule
for the Christmas Eve event.
Yeah, uh hmmm, yeah,
all under control.
All under control. Right.
"That smooth transition
"from pine to gingerbread to
cinnamon will evoke the ultimate"
"scent experience for positive
holiday memory retention."
Even if you haven't started yet,
"The Christmas Season Handbook"
can still help you deliver a
very successful holiday season.
Would you like a signed copy?
Thank you.
Hey, hey. I gotta run.
I have a meeting with
the local news team
covering the
Christmas Eve event.
You got this from here?
Wait, wait. This was your idea.
You can't just leave me here.
Just ask Adie to
sign the paperwork.
I've already filled out
everything important for you.
- Okay?
- Hold it, don't...
Hey!
I have to say,
I'm surprised by the turnout.
Why is that exactly?
Oh. Just saying that your
store is quite popular.
And why wouldn't it be?
No reason.
Okay, so, how do we do this?
Just report the sales
to the publisher
and they'll square up with me.
This is your first book signing?
It's Melanie's idea.
You don't enjoy having
a store full of people?
I like the place to myself.
Don't really like people
touching all the books.
I should be going.
Well, Merry Christmas.
And you. Safe travels.
Do you really think that
every detail of the holidays
needs to be planned or is
that just to sell books?
I absolutely stand
by every word.
But really? Everything?
I take it you prefer
to wing the holidays?
Not wing it, but leave some
things to spontaneity.
Spontaneity leads
to disappointment.
Kids love surprises.
Kids love planned,
organized events
that appear to be surprises.
There's a big difference.
I just think parents,
they stress themselves out and
then nobody enjoys the season.
Okay.
You're not going
to challenge me?
You are obviously stuck
in your opinion as am I.
We will agree to disagree.
And you'll be wrong.
What was that?
Nothing. Just that
you are wrong.
You care to try to prove that?
What do you mean?
This is your last
stop of the tour?
It is.
And you're already
hyper organized
and ready for the big day?
I am.
Then stick around town.
Observe how I do Christmas
and reassess your judgments.
That will never happen.
If you're afraid of
being revealed as a fraud.
Whoa! Hold up.
I'm not afraid of anything.
And my theories are rock solid.
Then, accept the challenge.
Fine. Be prepared to
re-evaluate your stance.
Care to make it
more interesting?
What do you have in mind?
If you can get me to come
around to your boring way
of doing the holidays,
I'll personally ensure you
sell enough copies of your book
this season to hit
a bestseller's list.
My publicist hasn't even made
that impossible promise.
How do you propose to do that?
You've never heard of me, huh?
No, Mr. Bigshot,
I guess I haven't.
I won gold in two separate
Olympics for skiing.
I have a fan or two
on social media.
Six million followers.
Okay. Well, what
happens if you win
if I don't convince you
that my method is the best?
You add a chapter about
spontaneity to your book.
You have a deal.
How was the last tour stop?
There was
actually a huge turnout.
Sold all but one copy.
Well, from the box
designated for that store.
We won't talk about
the rest of the boxes
in the trunk of my car.
That's great. What time are
you heading back tomorrow?
I've actually decided
to stay a few days.
Really? Why?
The local hero
posed a challenge.
What sort of challenge?
He has a few issues with my book
and he'd like the opportunity
to disprove my
well-researched methods.
I don't know about this Adie.
Oh come on, what could he
possibly do to change my
mind after years of calculated
research and childhood trauma?
What's at stake?
Just that I add a chapter to
the next edition of the book
on spontaneity.
What?
That goes entirely against the
rest of the book's message!
You can't be serious
about putting your brand
at risk like this.
What could you
possibly have to gain?
Apparently he has six
million devoted followers
on social media.
One post and poof, Santa
brings a bestseller list!
Okay. That's something
I just hope you know
what you're doing.
Nailed it!
Did you see that?
Aunt Mel has some
really great ideas, Dad.
You really need to take
a serious look at this.
You should seriously
check out this run.
That quad flip was
off the charts.
Completed one and
only one in my career.
It was the most terrifying...
Stunt you ever pulled off.
Yes, you've only told
me a hundred times.
Let your old man relive
his glory days, please.
You going to stop
living in the past, Dad?
You need to start thinking
about the store's future.
The store's fine.
Only it's really not.
These sales numbers
are atrocious.
I should never have
taught you such language.
We should have kept to
sportscaster speak.
Let's paint the picture for
those of you just tuning in.
The odds are stacked against
them, yet here they are,
mounting a comeback
for the ages!
Look at the focus, the
fire in their eyes.
You can feel the energy
surging on the slopes!
This store could go all the
waaaaaay!
Okay. Let's watch the
replay so you can recount
how you did it better.
That's my moon.
Excellent choice.
No order whatsoever.
The hunt is part of the fun.
If you have six hours.
Kids and Adults, really?
What about genre classification?
Fiction, non-fiction,
graphic novels?
This method is
more enlightening.
This chaos isn't a method,
but do enlighten me.
Wellll, the way I see it,
someone might come in looking
for a sci-fi novel, insisting
that they only read sci-fis.
But maybe while they're
searching the shelves looking
for one, they find an intriguing
mystery or tempted by a ripping
romance novel, a genre they'd
never consider otherwise.
It's called up selling.
It likely just annoys
people and they leave.
Annoys people?
What is this annoys
people that you speak of?
People like order.
Boring people can
shop elsewhere.
Okay...
So, should we get started?
On what?
You trying to prove to
me that spontaneity
is the magic of the season.
If I had something planned that
would kinda defeat the purpose,
don't you think?
So what then?
Should I start
proving my theories?
You really can't just relax
and go with the flow, can you?
Not since I was three years old.
You should come with me.
What? Where?
Do I need my purse?
How long are we
going to be gone?
Carl! Are you
ready for a rematch?
When you least expect
it there, Garth.
Carl and I had our
first snowball fight
when we were eight.
Every year since, once of us
tries to surprise the other
with the first throw
of the season.
You know snowball fights right?
Of course I do.
There's a whole chapter
of snow-fun in my book.
Right, the pre-arranged
snow battle
complete with team
colors and rules.
It's a fun day to organize
and that way you at least
know who you're aiming at.
Well, I aim at everyone.
You never know who's
going to join in.
Everyone joins in?
Yesss.
That seems...
Spontaneous? Exactly.
Like this?
You know what? This is fun.
"We've reached a record number
of store sign ups this year."
"A credit to your lovely
and charming persuasion."
I never knew a florist
could be so competitive.
Miss Lynn, she used to pitch
on a woman's baseball league.
That explains a lot.
Fun, right?
It was about a six.
Come on, you were laughing so
hard, you couldn't breath.
My pre-planned game is fun too.
Time recoveries would not result
in side splitting laughing.
Okay, fine.
One point for spontaneous.
You made a scoreboard?
We needed a visual, so you can
see how badly I'm beating you.
Okay fine. My turn.
Hey, where are you going?
I have some prep to do
but I will meet you at
your place at five PM.
Don't eat lunch.
I ate lunch at ten thirty.
Of course you did.
Normal meal times dictated by
society would be off brand.
You two seem to be having fun.
Sorry. Didn't mean to leave
all the actual work to you,
but you're just so
much better at it.
How goes the event prep?
Good, yeah, almost
everything's done.
The founder of the event
says we've reached
a record number of store
signs ups this year.
Does someone have a crush?
Ah, I don't know.
Do you?
No no. I'm talking about
you and this Peter guy.
You talk like a
dozen times a day.
He's also about seventy-five
years old, so, there's that.
But it's too bad because he's
actually very sweet and funny.
So, he's got a few
decades on you.
You've dated worse.
Dad!
You're not my Dad.
Hi. You must be Luna.
And you are our new cook?
Nooo...
Didn't want to interrupt
your studying to tell you.
This is Adeline Wilson,
author of
"The Christmas Season Handbook".
She's teaching me how to make
one of her fool proof
holiday recipes.
I assume this is part of
the bet you two have going?
Well, she's attempting to prove
that scheduling every aspect
of the meal prep results in a
hotter, more delicious meal.
Makes sense.
Thank you.
You traitor! Come on!
Okay. I just need
a clear kitchen.
Perhaps it's better to
just leave you to it.
Whatever she's making
smells delicious.
Oh come on, she's been in
there for over two hours.
I'm starving.
Shouldn't take longer
to make the food
than it does to eat it.
Someone's hangry.
This is your fault for
taking this woman on
with this challenge.
She is a celebrated best
selling cook book author!
Her book's ridiculous.
Have you read it?
According to store
sales reports,
it was a hit at her signing.
That's because of the
self-help book craze.
This new generation thinks that
they need solutions to things
that don't need to
be that complicated.
It's all insta this
and insta that.
Hey I have seen what you
post to your followers.
The cereal eating challenge?
Well, now you're just
making me more hungry.
That's it, I'm ordering pizza.
Don't you dare.
Dinner's ready.
Already?
I'm finishing this last bite.
I don't care if I explode.
I'll add your point to
the scoreboard tomorrow.
I'll leave the
rest of it for you.
Are we getting
the tree tomorrow?
I'm one step ahead of you.
Come with me and
prepare to be amazed.
Um... Dad.
Where did this come from?
The side of the house.
I had it out there
to surprise you.
Since last Christmas?
No. Just before Thanksgiving.
Of all the premeditated holiday
activities, you picked the tree?
Oh no you don't. You're not
getting a point for this one.
This is the definition
of spontaneity.
Hmm. Do tell.
Gladly.
So there I was, driving
down state road forty-six
behind a truck transporting
Christmas trees.
This one fell off and I
had to swerve to miss it.
Is that how your
headlight got cracked?
Yeah, it smoke it.
Anyway, so I pulled over...
And I rescued it!
And voila, free Christmas tree.
That's a great story, Dad.
I'm going to ignore the part
about how you nearly died
from a tree falling off a truck,
and then you running out
onto a busy freeway
to rescue it.
But, does it look a
little dry to you?
No. Nothing a little
hydration can't fix.
Dad, you put lights on that
thing, that baby's going up.
It's a great tree, Dad.
Or at least it used to be.
Do have any tips in that book
of yours on how save this one.
I haven't covered resuscitating
evergreens in my courses yet.
If you cut a few inches off
the bottom of the trunk
and put it in distilled water,
it could have a shot.
Really? That'll work?
Worth a shot.
Just remember to watch the water
level to see if it goes down.
Unless, of course, you want your
dad out cruising the freeways
for more sacrificial trees.
I'll go get the saw.
Where's your audiobook section?
Or your hunt and find section
most likely to hold one?
Audiobooks aren't real books.
Say what now?
Books are meant to be
read, not listened to.
Tell that to every child
below the age of five.
Adults, I mean.
Just like, um,
comic books don't belong
in a real bookstore either.
There is so much wrong with the
words coming out of your mouth
these last twenty seconds.
Ah... I didn't take you for
a graphic novel collector.
I read all genres.
It's called being open-minded.
And audiobooks have been
proven to target reactions
in the same parts of
the brain as reading.
I still think it's cheating.
How has this store
stayed open so long?
I will admit, it has not been
the most lucrative venture.
It could be, with
some adjustments.
According to
"What's Trendy Magazine"
bookstores are
making a comeback.
Mel's got some fantastic
business plans.
I'll give it some
thought in the new year.
Resistance to change
seems odd for a man
who's life motto is about
embracing the impulsive.
My wife and I opened the
store fifteen years ago
when my career ended
and Luna was little.
Kelli loved to read.
The chaotic nature of
the design was her idea.
Can I ask what happened?
She got sick.
Luna's studying to
become a doctor.
That's impressive.
Yeah, sports medicine.
I'm so proud of her
but she's working so hard
I'm afraid she'll burn out.
You'll keep her balanced.
Okay, next act of
holiday spontaneity.
Let's go.
Any point asking where?
Nope.
Hi. We'd like two tickets to
the Christmas concert, please.
We're sold out.
Well, could we get
tickets for tomorrow?
This is our last day.
Next time, buy
tickets in advance.
So, maybe buying tickets in
advance is the better play here?
I practically gave you this one.
My redemption.
No no no no no. No way.
I'm not good at skating.
Afraid of falling, actually.
Come on, Adie. I've got you.
Well?
It's actually really fun.
But I'm still terrified.
Adrenaline adds
to the enjoyment.
Is that why you enjoyed
your extreme skiing career?
Definitely an
adrenaline fanatic.
But it was also the
thrill of competition.
I'm very competitive by the way.
Hadn't noticed.
Tell me you're winning this bet.
Scoreboard is tied. Two all.
There's a scoreboard?
Oh, the whole thing's
very official.
You're having fun
with this, aren't you?
I'm out to prove the
guy wrong, that's all.
- You're sure?
- Absolutely.
He's not getting to you, is he?
I mean, you're still sticking
to your convictions right?
Yes!
All he's really demonstrated
is that some spontaneous fun
can happen, but he still needs
to prove to me that important
details can be left
unplanned in order to win.
And that's going
to be impossible.
Don't worry, I got this.
It always looks
worse than it is.
You know, if you mail your
holiday packages in September,
there's no line-ups.
How do you buy gifts that early?
Newsflash, stores are open
for business year round
and Christmas comes every year.
It's not a surprise.
I don't mind waiting in line.
It's kinda fun.
Adds to the feel of the hustle
and bustle of the season.
Everyone sending gifts
to their loved ones.
Encourages a sense
of in it together.
A sense of community, huh?
- Thank you. Merry Christmas.
- Merry Christmas.
With regular shipping?
Yes, please.
Estimated delivery is between
January 10th and February 4th.
That's after Christmas.
But it's well before
next Christmas.
What other shipping
options do you have
to get it there
before this Christmas?
There's priority
ground shipping.
Sounds good.
Oh, wait, no. They'll have your
packages arrive January 5th,
at the earliest.
Let me check priority air.
Thanks.
I'm seeing December
27th to 30th...
You're getting warmer.
Express priority is the only
way this late in the season.
Okay. Express priority it is.
How much?
This can't be right.
That price is correct.
Your package will arrive
December 24th, guaranteed.
Merry Christmas!
Are you Adeline
Wilson, the author?
Yes. I guess that's me.
I love your book.
It's so smart!
I'm following your advice
and I've never had a
better Christmas season.
Wow. Thank you.
I'm happy to hear it.
You should read it sometime.
Thanks.
Thank you so much.
What is going on?
Ah, apparently your
little bet went viral.
What?
Thank you so much.
My publicist...
She saw an angle to capitalize
on this challenge we have going.
Well, it's certainly
been good for business.
Oh, I hope you don't mind,
I took those extra boxes
of books out of your
car when we ran out.
I hope you didn't need
them for anything.
No, no. That's great.
I will give you your change.
Thank you.
And now that you're back
maybe you can sign some?
Yeah, absolutely.
I'm just going to check
in with my publicist.
I'll just be a sec.
Perfect. Thank you.
You're going viral!
Yeah, about that.
Don't you think posting about
someone trying to disprove
my claims is a little
counter intuitive?
I thought you were
worried about this.
I was but then I thought why
not use it to our advantage?
You're banking your job and
the success of the book
off of controversy-based sales?
It's not that controversial,
it's just fun.
People will buy the book to
see whose side they're on.
And your social media followers
have risen significantly.
I hope you know
what you're doing.
Me too.
So far, business around here
has definitely picked up.
They're selling all the copies
I didn't sell everywhere else.
See, it's working.
You still ultimately need to win
so he delivers on his promise.
I'll try.
Oh, and get a photo of you two
in front of the scoreboard
to post to your page.
Will do.
Adie, we need
your signature over here!
I got to go. Bye.
That woman is a
Christmas savant.
Why are all the Christmas
presents for our family
and friends still on
the kitchen table?
Because the shipping
was going to cost more
than the items inside.
So, everyone's getting
e-gift cards this year.
Those presents will be
used for next year's gift.
See! Now who's the pre-planner?
How's the patient?
On the mend. The water
is down an inch.
Another inch or two and I think
we'll be out of the woods.
Out of the woods...
It's a tree, oh come
on, it's a tree pun.
That was funny.
I'll add that to the
list of Dad jokes
I never want to hear again.
Up late again?
I haven't actually
gone to bed yet.
This is a vacation.
You remember the
definition of that, right?
Thank you for doing this.
Thank you for selling them.
Wasn't sure what I was going to
do with all these extra copies.
Give them as Christmas
gifts to friends and family?
I don't really have
much of either.
I traveled a lot as
a military kid, so...
Lasting friendships
were tough to make.
Yeah.
Yeah, I used to worry about that
a lot with Luna, you know, when
the family was traveling around
a lot for Garth's skiing career.
I was really happy when they
finally settled down here.
I sensed it wasn't something
Garth wanted to talk about,
but his wife must have been
really young when she passed.
She was, yeah.
She was a track
and field sprinter
and she was going back
to competing, you know.
Garth had retired and
Kelli wanted to give her
athletic career one last go.
And Garth supported
her, I mean, we all did.
But, ah, a few weeks
in, she got sick,
and then, ah,
well, and then she was gone.
That's so sad.
That must be a factor
in Luna's decision
to practice sports medicine?
Yeah, yup.
Life changed for Garth and
Luna in that split second.
That's why my brother
is the way he is.
That's why he lives in the
moment, for the moment.
It's because he knows how
precious every second is
and how fast it can
all just be gone.
But ah, you know, he
needs to start thinking
more about the future as well.
Wilty survived the night!
Who's Wilty?
The name Luna gave the tree.
She said if it had a name,
it'd know we were
talking to it and...
Man, she's good.
I wonder where she
gets her sarcasm from?
Hm, yeah, I wonder.
Where does she get that?
Since it was your
idea that saved it,
would you like to help
us decorate it later?
No point distribution,
no challenge pressure.
Just plain, old
holiday tradition.
A temporary truce.
Sure, I'm in.
Don't judge the decorations.
They all have special meaning.
This has special meaning?
Yes! I can't believe you
don't remember this one.
Spring break road
trip to Oregon.
We stopped at that famous
ice cream shop in that tiny town
and they were selling these in
the clearance bin, claiming that
they were supposed to be the
chocolate ice cream emoji.
It is supposed to be the
chocolate ice cream emoji.
This is the same
conversation we had that day.
You said it was ice cream.
I said it was the result of a
lactose intolerant condition.
It's not exactly
great marketing.
We argued the entire
way to the coast.
I remember now!
We finally let the old man with
the metal detector on the beach
weigh in to solve the debate...
And he said...?
Poop emoji.
These definitely have meaning.
Oh, we don't have to
hang those this year.
What are you talking about?
You always say they
deserve a place of honor
in the front of the tree.
You won all those?
This is from his first
competition in Breckenridge.
You know, I'm sure Adie doesn't
want to hear about my career.
Actually, I do.
This is from his first Olympics.
And this is from his
second Olympics.
And the rest here are all from
the regional and
national events.
Very impressive.
Thank you. Do you ski?
If by ski, you mean drink hot
cocoa by a fire in a lodge,
then yes.
You should take her,
while she's still here.
Yeah, maybe.
What's this?
A new addition to the tree.
Dad...
I haven't even graduated yet.
That's just a matter of timing.
You might have just jinxed it.
Or maybe, it's a manifestation.
Worst tree ever.
I don't know.
I kinda like it.
This is an awful lot of
presents for just your family.
Ah, Christmas morning.
We all revert to our
four year old selves.
It doesn't matter how old you
are, the excitement of seeing
a giant pile of presents
under the tree never fades.
What are you doing?
Wrapping.
That is not wrapping.
That looks like the gift wrap
after the present's been opened.
Okay, show me how it's done.
Watch and learn.
Tada!
You think that looks
more fun than mine?
Definitely prettier.
Okay, let's let Luna decide.
I thought you said today
was no points, no pressure?
No, I'm too competitive
to commit to that.
Besides, I think
I've got this one.
Luna!
Thought I wasn't
allowed to come in yet.
We need you to solve
something for us.
Which present would you
be most excited to open?
I pick the messy one.
Aha!
Sorry, Adie. I just
wouldn't want to open yours.
It looks too pretty.
Aha! So my wrapping is
technically better.
It doesn't matter.
The deciding factor is
which one she'd rather open.
Another point for spontaneous.
Can I go back to learning how
to set a broken femur now?
Yes. Gross.
So, your bio says
you didn't have
the perfect holidays growing up.
My editor said that people
needed to feel as though
the advice in the book
was coming from someone
who knew what they
were talking about.
Why I was the one to
write this story,
the dreaded question posed
by all non-fic writers.
So you came up with a false
back story to sell books?
I doubt that.
No, it's true.
Growing up I didn't experience
joyful, magical Christmases.
My mom died when I was a baby,
so it was just my dad and I.
He didn't care much
for the holidays.
Did you celebrate at all?
Yes, but he'd failed to
plan or put any effort in,
and then feel guilty
at the last minute
and run out to buy
some random gifts,
whatever turkey the
grocery store still had.
It was obvious he wasn't into
it, so when I became a teenager,
I put him out of his
misery and told him
I wasn't into Christmas either.
Well, he has to
know the truth now.
He passed away three years ago.
I'm sorry.
Thank you.
I do feel that he did
inspire me to become
the Christmas expert
that I am today.
So, have you always known
you wanted to be a writer?
I wouldn't really call
myself a full time writer.
I was too scared to
give up my day job.
I'm actually an ESL instructor.
I teach English online.
That's cool. I like that.
A back up plan.
Having moved around
the world so much,
I picked up a few
languages along the way.
And I like the independence
of working from home
and on my own schedule.
Well, plus it gives you more
time to research the best way
to burn scented candles
for the ultimate holiday
memory retention.
Full disclosure.
If I never smell another
scented candle again,
it will be too soon.
Online book sales
are through the roof.
Even right before Christmas,
for a non-fiction title,
this is unheard of.
That's great news.
Of course we still need that
big push from Garth's post
to solidify this as
a bestselling book.
By the way,
have you two discussed
a way to wrap this up?
Wrap this up?
Yeah, the challenge.
It's coming to an end right.
By Christmas Eve?
Um... Of course.
We're running out of
challenges anyway.
Here are some ideas...
Wearing fancy dress clothes
to sit around the
house and eat all day.
You've got to be kidding me.
It's a celebration.
You have to dress the part.
Give the day the
respect it deserves.
I'll give my full stomach
the respect it deserves
by wearing stretchy pants.
Oh, please don't tell me you're
ugly Christmas sweater people.
Much worse.
Pajamas all day people.
Like, you don't shower all day?
No. We change out of our bedtime
Christmas pajamas, shower,
then put on daytime
Christmas pajamas.
We're not uncivilized.
You've obviously never spent the
entire day in pajamas, have you?
Sure, I have!
Other than when you're sick.
Then, no.
You don't know what
you're missing.
I'll take your word for it.
We're doing this.
The store's closed tomorrow
My place, nine AM
in your pajamas.
No way.
Are you forfeiting
the challenge?
Fine.
How does it feel?
To be standing in front
of practical strangers
in my pajamas, weird.
You get used to it.
DVDs? You actually still
have a DVD player?
Dad refuses to stream, says
movies look better on DVD,
low-res nostalgic.
My vote is
"The Bells of Bedford".
Actually, I think it's only fair
since I'm being a good sport
about the pajama day, the
least we can do is experience
my movie watching plan.
Your what?
I agree. That's fair.
Oh, I see.
The ladies are sticking
together. How nice.
Fine. Fine.
What's first?
Joy to the world
the Lord is come
Let earth receive her King
Let every heart
prepare Him room
And heaven and nature sing
And heaven and nature sing
And heaven and heaven
and nature sing
So, do I get this point?
Undeniably.
I don't think I can watch these
movies in any other order now.
And I'll admit, the
pajamas aren't horrible.
Okay fine, they're fantastic!
But does this really
qualify as spontaneous?
Or just lazy?
Hmmmm. Fine.
I'll sacrifice the point.
It was worth it to get you to
experience it for yourself.
Well, I have to get
back to studying.
Great hanging out
with you, Adie.
So, how many times,
in different orders,
did you have to watch these
movies to figure that out?
Let's just say, I could act
out each one off script.
You must have done a lot
of research for your book.
How long did it
take you to write?
Three years.
Three years! That's a whole
other level of commitment.
I didn't want it to be just a
simple holiday suggestion book.
There was enough of those
on the market already.
I wanted my theories
to be tested and true,
based on psychological
and scientific evidence.
Wow.
So, Christmas has basically
been your life for three years.
Yep.
And yet, you don't actually have
any real Christmas
plans yourself, do you?
What makes you think that?
Because you agreed to stay
in a strange, small town
leading up to what you have
affectionately deemed
the most significant month
of the year to hang with me,
a dude you don't know
and barely like.
Okay, fine, you got me.
As I told Melanie, I don't
really have any family
and my circle of friends is
more acquaintance level.
So, ah, no boyfriend or fiance?
I was engaged once,
a few years ago.
What happened?
The book, the Christmas
everywhere, all the time,
it got to him.
He said, direct quote,
"You have ruined
Christmas for me".
Not exactly a book
endorsement quote.
What a jerk.
No, believe me, I understood.
Christmas was my only focus.
Music, movies,
festive food meals.
Well, I could suffer through
that dinner you made more often.
Anyway, that was a few years ago
and it didn't make much sense
to drag someone else through
the holiday madness.
Relationships were put on hold
until I finished the book.
Well, I hope you've enjoyed
your time here this season.
I have, a lot.
We should really talk about
how we're going to wrap
this whole thing up.
I'm leading on the
scoreboard by one.
Right, yeah, yeah, I guess
it's coming to an end soon.
But I still have a few
tricks up my sleeve, though.
I may have a few
counter moves myself.
Can't sleep?
Too much sugar.
He says as he
consumes even more.
How goes the studying?
The book stuff I'm
confident about.
The exams aren't that hard.
With the amount of
studying you put in,
anything would feel easy.
It's the practicum next semester
at the sports therapy clinic
I'm most worried about.
Applying what I'm learning in a
real life scenario is freaky.
- Practice on me.
- Really?
Yeah, just don't be surprised if
my stats are all off from the
sugar high and the emotional
movie watching journey today.
And of course your pulse
might be racing as well?
What are you getting on at?
I saw the way you
looked at Adie.
No you didn't because
there was nothing to see.
Now, take my blood pressure
before you annoy me
and it gets worse.
You know it's okay to like her.
She's the competitor.
There's no room for weakness.
Your blood pressure is fine.
Still in top athlete shape.
I wouldn't go that far.
Just saying. It's been a long
time since you dated someone.
Not interested in dating.
Mom's been gone a long time.
Time doesn't decide when the
heart's ready to move on.
Now go to bed.
Snowflakes falling
Everyone around us is singing
It's Christmas Magic
with you under the mistletoe
Maybe I'm dreaming but I hear
the sleigh bells ringing
Hey Peter. Hey.
Wait, what?
No, those stores should
already have those books.
Okay, let me look into it,
Peter, and I'll call you back.
Okay? Okay, bye.
There you go. Thanks.
A holiday flash mob in the
middle of the mall, epic!
And I think that's another
point for spontaneous.
You better pick up
the pace Wilson.
We're running out of time.
That's not a good look.
I caught that.
These were supposed to go
out to bookstores weeks ago.
The others went out.
Because I did it.
I left this last batch to you!
Remember?
My bad.
You're bad?
That's all you got?
I'm sorry.
It's not good enough, okay.
The event is tomorrow night and
we're never going to get these
to all the participating
stores in time now.
Look, that book's a classic.
I'm sure each of the other
bookstores have a copy.
That wasn't the point.
The point of the event
is that every store
has the same version,
same words, same photos,
same sticker on the front
as a commemorative souvenir!
Okay, I messed up.
How do we fix it?
Well, I don't know if we can.
I mean, half of these
stores are miles away.
Even express post likely
won't make it in time.
Courier?
That would cost a small fortune.
We can deliver these.
Really?
You want to drive around
for hours delivering books?
It may be the only
way to save the day.
Ah...
So, you're admitting sometimes
an act of spontaneity is...
Is a necessary evil when
someone fails to plan.
That's fair.
No point.
This Christmas
I believe
There's more to this world
Than I can see
The tinsel sparkles
And the trees light up
I hear my heart say
This world is love
And if you don't mind
I wrote a wish list
I know I'm too old
but I've missed this
Here's my number
two and three
But number one feels
close to me
Snow is falling
And you are calling my name
And, that's the last of them.
We did it.
And if I believe in my dreams
Then this Christmas
I'll be holding on to you
Luna says, snow's
coming, drive safe.
Sometimes I forget
who the parent is.
She's very protective, huh?
Always has been.
She's going to make
a fantastic doctor.
Was that always her dream?
No, no.
She was going to follow in my
footsteps in competitive skiing.
Since her mom died, medicine
became her new passion.
Melanie told me what happened.
I'm really sorry.
Yeah, it just happened so fast.
It took weeks to even
believe that she was gone
and months to figure out how
to move forward without her.
It couldn't have been easy.
I was learning to become a dad.
Kelli there as my guide.
She's a natural at parenting.
It just took me
longer to get it.
All of a sudden it
was all up to me.
You did an amazing job.
Luna is incredible.
Thank you.
Feel free to tell me it's
none of my business but
you must have been
a really young dad.
Yeah.
I mean, Kelli and I
were young everything.
We were young athletes,
young parents.
She retired from competing when
she found out she was pregnant
with Luna and then they
continued to tour with me
until I retired.
An injury?
No. It was just
time to walk away.
And then you two
opened the bookstore?
Yeah, we were driving into
town with everything we owned
in this U-Haul and as we were
passing by this space for lease,
Kelli pointed to it and she goes
"That building holds
our next chapter".
I didn't realize she
meant quite literally.
And now you run
the store with Mel?
Mel's actually on
loan for the holidays.
She has a job in financial
management about an hour away.
She gives all her vacation time
to help me during the holidays.
You two seem very close.
We have our moments.
Like today when I messed up
and she wanted to strangle me.
I don't know how Luna and I
would have gotten through
those first few years
on our own without her.
Family support can make
all the difference.
I'm sorry you haven't had that.
I know I've only known you for a
week, but if you need anything,
Luna, Mel and I are
always here for you.
Heard Adie really
helped save the day yesterday.
Yeah. Quite possibly my life.
Aunt Mel looked
ready to m*rder me.
Dad, you know I love you but
you have to start taking things
a bit more seriously.
I know.
The store is capable of
being something truly great.
But you have to try harder.
I will.
Aunt Mel can't keep
spending her yearly holidays
to come help you out,
so you really should try
looking into some part time help
and definitely an accountant.
Thank you, but I'm
the parent here.
Sorry.
I worry about you.
It's okay.
You shouldn't have to.
I promise, next year, I'll
get everything sorted out.
What about Adie?
What about Adie?
What are you going to do about
the connection between you two?
We're friends.
I'm sure we'll keep in touch.
And the challenge? Last time
I checked the scoreboard,
even after today's fiasco,
you're still in the lead.
Yeah well, after today, I can't
argue that some planning is
definitely the way to go.
So you'll tell Adie she
won and endorse her book
to all your followers?
I'll tell Adie she won
and endorse her book
to my followers.
Good.
I've decided to move forth
Melanie's store proposal
in the new year.
That's great.
Yeah, so the next time you
host a book signing here,
there might actually
be a better set-up.
I think this one
worked out well.
Your book's really great Adie.
I'm sorry if I ever made
you think otherwise.
And your spontaneous
spirit is something
more people could
learn to embrace.
Oh! There was no mistletoe!
I had to improvise.
I'm sorry, I just,
since Kelli...
Got you!
I'm sorry. What?
Proof that a spontaneous
mistletoe kiss is a bad idea.
My point. The score is tied.
So, that was just
part of the challenge?
Of course!
You just wanted to
even the scoreboard?
Yep.
Okay, well, I guess we're tied.
That was awfully risky.
What if I hadn't completely
frozen and kissed you back?
Then I guess you would have won.
But you didn't, so I guess
we're at a stalemate.
She went in for a kiss
and you rejected her?
I didn't reject her.
She caught me off guard.
I panicked!
So, you wanted to kiss her?
I don't know, maybe, yeah.
But then she claimed this was
all just part of the challenge?
Yes, but I'm not so sure.
But if you're starting to
have feelings for her,
why didn't you just tell her?
I don't know if I'm
feeling feelings.
I mean, ever since the kiss, I
just feel nauseous and clammy.
Yep, that's love.
Love? Let's not
get carried away.
I've only known the
woman less than ten days.
You said it was love at
first sight with mom.
That only ever happens once.
But Dad, this woman has
you feeling feelings
and that hasn't happened
in a very long time.
You have to explore this.
Does he? I mean,
Adie's leaving soon.
Exactly.
That's a cop-out.
People make long distance
work all the time
and she's a writer and
online ESL teacher.
She could move here.
Oh! Let's not get
ahead of things.
I agree.
But I think you should at
least explore this connection.
I mean, what do I even
say after the way
that I panicked and
acted, it was...
Apologize for acting weird
and tell her you like her.
Okay, it's weird
that I like her.
Right.
No, Dad, come on.
Deep breath.
You're weird. She's great.
You want her to stay and spend
Christmas day with us tomorrow.
What if she says no?
She won't say no.
How do you know?
Because I've seen the
way she looks at you.
And that kiss wasn't
part of the challenge.
Okay.
["He's going to mess
this up again.
Hey! Can I come in?
Of course.
You're leaving?
I thought it was a good
time to hit the road.
Less traffic on Christmas Eve.
You're not coming to
the event tonight?
I don't think it's a good idea.
Don't want the whole
challenge thing to
steal the focus of the event.
My dad panicked.
He told you about the kiss?
Luna, I'm so sorry.
It was nothing.
Just a bad way not to lose
the challenge, that's all.
That's too bad because
my dad likes you too.
Really, my ego is fine.
You don't have to say that.
He does. I know him.
He just freaked out.
He's never dated
anyone since my mom.
So, he's nervous and
afraid to open himself up.
Then, I really
think I should go.
This week's been fun and I've
enjoyed getting to know you, but
I think it's best for
everyone if I leave now,
before anyone gets hurt.
Okay.
I get it.
Good luck with school.
You're going to make
a fantastic doctor.
If I ever decide to try skiing,
you'll be the first person
I call to reset my femur.
Thanks, Adie.
Merry Christmas.
Merry Christmas.
Okay...
Sorry, the event's
not starting yet.
Melanie?
I'm Peter Franklin.
Ah, no you're not.
Peter Franklin has about
thirty years on you.
That would be my father.
Excuse me, I'm
Peter Franklin Jr.
Oh. Oh, hi.
Well... Welcome!
The place looks great.
Thank you.
Ah, so, it's been you that
I've been chatting with
this whole time?
My father handed the
reins to me this year.
Which is why it was so important
for me to pull this off.
Wow, well ah, you really took
a chance leaving something
so important in the
hands of this store.
I don't think so. You've been
incredible this whole time
I mean, especially the
way you handled those
last minute deliveries.
Well, I mean, that
was my brother,
but sure, I'll take the credit.
Happy Christmas Eve!
It sounds like
you're on the road?
Decided I should start
the journey back.
On Christmas Eve?
I thought you'd be staying
to celebrate the holidays.
Don't be silly.
It was a fun vacation.
Now it's over.
Well congrats on
winning the challenge!
What? No, I didn't.
The score was tied.
- You didn't see the post?
- What post
Garth Bowman's
social media post,
recommending your book with
a very heartfelt message.
He posted something?
But neither of us
won the challenge.
I'd say you did.
Digital book sales have
been through the roof
since the post went
live two hours ago.
Seriously?
I guess people are wanting
to get a jump on next year.
As you always say,
"Christmas comes every year."
"It shouldn't come
as a surprise."
And the best part,
I overheard the execs talking
about a next potential book,
"The Perfect Valentine's Day".
Wow. I mean, I'm never going
to write that, but wow.
He did this because of the kiss.
You did what now?
It was nothing.
Why are you really leaving
on Christmas Eve, Adie?
This wasn't about
book sales, was it?
Do you like him?
Yes, but he's not ready
for a new relationship.
And if I stay for the holidays,
it would make it
harder to leave.
Did you tell him how you feel?
I went with actions
that backfired
and then I backtracked
and well, ran away.
How can you expect
him to open up
and trust in your relationship
if you're too scared
to be vulnerable and honest?
I guess you're right.
But I'm already hours away.
It's never too
late to turn around.
Go ahead and officially
lose that bet, Adie.
It's time you had
a Merry Christmas.
Hey Snow Angels!
G-Bowman here with a
special Christmas Eve post.
By now a lot of you
have heard about the
Team spontaneous vs.
Team structure challenge
I have going on with
Adeline Wilson,
author of "The Christmas
Season Handbook".
And well, I'm humble enough
to admit when I'm wrong.
While I still believe
that life happens
in the unexpected moments,
I've come to learn that
being prepared for those
moments makes them even better.
Adeline Wilson is the Christmas
expert we can all learn
something from as she
not only outlines how to
make Christmas
special in her book,
but she's injected heart
into those words of wisdom.
So, officially, congrats Adie
for winning the challenge,
but I consider myself
the luckiest for
having met you and spent
this time with you.
Go buy the book!
Merry Christmas!
This event means
so much to me and
I'm so thankful that
I can be here tonight
to share in this
experience with all of you.
My father started this
event thirty years ago and
this year's sign-up
was a record-breaker,
so thank you to the event
sponsors but a special thank you
to the woman who made
it all possible,
Melanie Bowman.
Just one sec.
Hey.
She's not coming.
She left town already.
It's fine.
It was always going to end.
Well, it didn't have to.
After my reaction to the
way she tried to kiss me,
I don't blame her for leaving.
Well, maybe you should call her.
If the kiss had really meant
something and it wasn't
just about the challenge,
she would have stayed
when she saw my post.
Maybe she didn't see it.
I did.
She came back.
I can see that.
What do I do?
Don't mess this up again.
Thanks for the
helpful advice, sis.
I thought you left town already.
I did.
And you came back.
I did.
Did you forget something?
I did.
Okay.
I forgot to tell you
that this Christmas
has been the only one that
has truly felt special.
And it's because of you.
I meant, like, did you leave
a phone charging cable
at the hotel, or something,
but I'll take that.
I'm glad you came back.
You are?
Yeah.
Because I also forgot to tell
you that this Christmas has been
the best one I've had in a
long time, because of you.
Sorry I didn't say it
before you drove hours away.
Maybe it was something that
needed to happen this way,
without overthinking,
over planning.
Just me following my heart.
So, maybe some
spontaneity is okay?
Maybe a little.
Maybe a little more.
We are live!
"Twas The Night Before Christmas
when all through the house,"
"not a creature was stirring,
not even a mouse."
And while planning and
preparing can relieve some of
the stress of the season, being
open to the unexpected magic
all around can elevate the
season from a successful one
to one your family
will never forget.
There you go.
Merry Christmas.
Another bestselling
season in the books.
I think the new
chapter is my favorite.
Definitely the one that
required the best research.
Thinking of dividing
the store into genres.
No way!
Let the folks be inspired.
- Yeah?
- Yeah.
What do you say?
Are you ready for a meticulously
planned, spontaneous holiday?
Absolutely.
Don't think I've forgotten about
the snow you put down my coat.
We're living out
our favorite traditions
With gingerbread treats
too sweet not to mention
It's a wonderland whirlwind
everywhere you look
Tinsel blinging round
the evergreen
It's a non stop
jingle bell jubilee
So much fun doing
Christmas by the book
We're singing every carol
at the top of our lungs
Hanging all the wreaths
and the mistletoe up
Making darn sure every silver
bell's done been shook
We're flying high yuletide
Kringle time grooving
Everybody who knows us
knows we're doing
Christmas
The fire's crackling
and the popcorn's strung
Bulbs a twinkling and
the stockings are hung
So much fun doing
Christmas by the book
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Christmas Bookshop, The (2025)
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