♪ We wish you a....
Open this one next, Lauren.
All right.
A Christmas wish! Thank you, Daddy.
- It's so beautiful.
- Yeah.
Just like the one...
that your mama had.
Wow, it's magic!
Shall we put it on the tree?
Yes, up on top to watch over us.
Oh, that's a pretty good idea.
You hold the angel,
I'll go get the ladder.
♪ So bring us a Figgy pudding ♪
OK, here we go.
♪ So bring us a Figgy pudding
♪ So bring us a Figgy pudding
- Oh, no!
- Daddy! Are you OK?
Yeah, just a little dizzy again.
(SIGHS)
I'm sorry, honey.
I've broken your angel.
Ohh.
Oh, I'm fine, honey.
I'm fine.
You know what? We'll send her back
to Grandon Falls
and they can fix her right up.
Sometimes angels need
a little help too.
I'm sorry.
♪ And a happy new year ♪
♪ We Wish You A Merry Christmas
(PURRING)
(KNOCK AT DOOR) Hi.
(GASPS)
- You're really doing it!
- I really am.
I feel like it's happened so fast.
I feel like it's been a lifetime
in the making!
Permanent teaching position!
You earned it.
I just wish you didn't have to move
to Springfield.
Yeah, I know. But I have to go
where the job is.
And there aren't that many openings
in Boston.
And I have been waiting for this
- for so long.
- You really have.
And no more substitute teaching
- for you!
- Right?!
My dream, I can finally settle in.
I can find a house with a yard
and a white picket fence.
You know, all of it.
Like what you and Mark have.
And how does Eric feel about that?
Um... No, it's...
- Lauren?
- We haven't talked
about it yet.
Because...
Because he's in London
and he's been so busy.
And really hard to get a hold of
on the phone.
Is this about what you were talking
about before he left?
Everyone knows how much
I love children.
I'm a teacher, for heaven's sake.
And Eric and I, we talked about this
from the very beginning.
And I thought that we were
on the same page.
I'm sorry you're going through this.
Well, you know what I always say.
When God closes a door -
Somewhere he opens a window.
And I think that window
could be Springfield.
Oh, Dad's letters.
Hm.
OK, Sassy. Are you ready?
(MIAOWS) Yeah.
Let's do this.
I'll just be a sec.
(DOOR OPENS)
Lauren?
Eric.
Hey, how did you know
I was coming home early?
- I didn't.
- I'm sorry. I know I should
have texted the second I got back.
But I wanted to get a quick nap in.
You know how I am with my jetlag.
- It's OK.
- No, it's not.
Look, I've been off the radar
for the last three weeks.
I'm really sorry about that.
I get it. You had a big networking
opportunity.
I did. And I got a new job!
Come on in. I'll tell you about it.
I can't. I have a cab waiting.
- I can't.
- Lauren, what's going on?
I wrote you a letter.
It's in the mailbox.
Hold on. Are you about
to do something rash?
I landed a full-time teaching
position in Springfield.
I shipped all my stuff there,
got a new apartment.
And I start in January.
Like that? That's rash.
It's really not.
Not if you've been paying attention.
Got to go.
Wait, Lauren. Er... I can drive you.
The train is fine. Bye.
(HOOTER)
How are you doing?
(MIAOWS)
Hey, Jim. Great to have you back
on the train.
OK.
Sorry, the train needs to make
an unexpected stop.
Oh. We're stopping?
Yes, there's an obstruction
on the tracks up ahead.
We're not sure how long
it's going to take to clear it.
So we have to stop here for now.
Oh, well, where's here?
Grandon Falls.
Another train will be along tomorrow
to take you onto Springfield.
Wait, where are we going to stay?
The railroad will give you a voucher
for this charming little inn
they have here.
I'm sure you'll love it.
Hm. Grandon Falls.
(PURRS)
Thank you.
Excuse me.
Excuse me, I need to get a ride
into town.
I'm sorry?
A ride. I can't seem to get
my Rideshare apps to work.
Yeah, we don't have those here.
So I'll just get a ride with you.
Sure.
My luggage is right there.
Looks like I'll need a cart.
Oh, is this...
That's my truck. Actually,
it's my grandfather's truck.
But it looks so great,
I decided to fix the engine
- and put a new carburettor in.
- No,
no, I meant you're not a cab driver.
I'm sorry. You were under the sign.
I thought... I got that.
No, I'm not.
Herb is our local cabbie.
Well, I'll just wait for Herb.
You're going to be waiting a while.
Herb's going to be having dinner
around now.
So he's in for the night.I...
I don't want to inconvenience you.
It's no inconvenience.
I was done.
Well, it's just... I don't know you.
I'm Travis.
It's nice to meet you
but I still don't know you.
Got it. Safety first. Hey, Farley,
can you vouch for me?
Travis is a really good guy.
Thank you.
Yeah, I don't know him either.
I'm sorry, I just... I can't.
Travis! Can I catch a ride
into town with you?
There's a delay
so I'm staying at my cousin's.
- Sure thing, Gary.
- Great, thanks.
How's Dylan?
He's staying out of trouble.
Ha ha!
Excuse me.
Thank you.
(MIAOWS)
Hello there, kitty!
- Thank you.
- Sorry about the delay.
You'll be on your way tomorrow.
Good. Can't wait to get settled.
MAN: Merry Christmas!
WOMAN: Merry Christmas!
- Thanks, Travis.
- Any time.
Merry Christmas.
And that is how Grandon Falls
got a nickname.
- Christmas Town.
- Really?
Oh, yes. We are very serious
about our Christmas.
If you get a chance, you should
check out the Christmas festival.
Last two weeks, there's a new event
practically every day.
There is ice skating and dance.
There is tree lighting.
And then there is
the Christmas Cafe.
Huh.
- Nice.
- It's...
It's a unique experience.
Yeah. Sounds fun.
But I'm going to Springfield
tomorrow.
Where I'm moving. I got a new job.
- Congratulations.
- Thank you.
(BELL)
Travis! Travis!
Did you give away another coat,
Dylan?
I gave it to one of the kids
from Rocklin.
I'm not even a little cold. Hi.
- Hello.
- Why don't you head home?
Dinner's in 20 minutes.
Yes, sir.
Beep beep! Coming through!
Your son's adorable.
He is. Although Dylan's a boy
I'm fostering.
- You're a foster parent?
- Yep.
- Wow.
- The kid has a heart of gold.
Some folks are staying here
temporarily
after a nearby fire destroyed
a lot of homes in Rocklin.
Dylan keeps giving away his coats
to other kids.
Says they need them
more than he does.
So er... What do you want to do
with all these bags?
Oh, the conductor mentioned an inn.
- Oh.
- Oh?
All the families from Rocklin
that we've been hosting,
they are being housed at that inn.
It's packed.
Completely?
There are no rooms at the inn.
Well, that's thematically on point.
But incredibly inconvenient.
Oh, what am I going to do?
Why don't you come with me?
I have an idea.
I'm right in the middle of
converting it into a spare room.
There's not much up there
other than a bed, an old dresser,
and a bit of my stuff.
I've been helping Rod renovate it.
It's not finished but it's warm.
No, it's great.
I'll only be one night.
I really appreciate it.
And thank you for everything.
Happy to help. I'd better hurry back
if I'm going to beat Dylan home.
See you, Trav.
Ooh, that's a lot of luggage.
Oh, maybe we'll just
leave those there.
Sure.
Well, up we go, then.
Oh, this is amazing!
I've always loved old things.
Especially the ones
that needed a little love.
(CHUCKLES) Some people call it junk.
But for me, they're treasures.
That need a little...repair.
This whole town is like
stepping back in time.
Well, it's Grandon Falls.
It's the best place in the world.
Enjoy your stay, Miss.
If you need anything, just holler.
I'll be downstairs
with all the other antiques.
Thank you.
And I have more quilts too
if you need them.(MIAOWING)
Oh, come here, Sassy.
This is so much better
than a hotel, huh?
Yeah, it is.
MAN: Morning!
(BELL TINKLES)
Oh, good morning.
Welcome to the Christmas Cafe.
Anything strike your fancy?
Oh, well... Just about everything!
Well, try one of these.
Mm! Oh, that is delicious!
I hope so. After 30 years,
I better know how to bake them!
Oh, no, it's on the house.
It's how I lure in my new customers.
Thank you.
- Oh, good morning, Karen!
- Hi, Betty.
I'll take another dozen
of those Christmas cookies, please.
(GASPS)
Are you OK?
That's my dad.(GASPS)
Really?
That photo must be 25 years old.
He was a travelling salesman.
Oh, I knew it! I...
I knew I'd heard of Grandon Falls
before.
Oh, he loved this town.
In fact, he bought me
that Christmas angel here.
What was your dad's name?
Maybe I met him.
I doubt it. He um...
He passed away when I was six.
Just after Christmas.
I'm sorry. That must make this time
of year pretty hard for you.
How about a nice cup of cocoa?
Thank you.
I like to think of the cafe
as the heart of our community.
There's a story behind every toy,
every decoration, every photo.
- I wonder where he got it.
- Hm?
My dad, with the Christmas angel.
We had sent it back
after the wing broke.
Try old Rod Loomis's shop.
What's Old Is New.
- That's where I'm staying.
- No!
He cleared a space in the attic.
Oh, well, you should ask him.
He might be able to help you.
Well, it's been so many years,
I'm sure it's long gone.
You never know until you try.
And Grandon Falls has a way
of making miracles happen!
Do you take marshmallows?
Oh, lots!
(PHONE PINGS)
Hello there, Travis!
Hello to you. Lauren of the luggage.
- I took your advice.
- About?
The Christmas Cafe. I loved it.
You had one of Betty's cookies?
Does she ever let people leave
- without them?
- No, no.
Thankfully not.
So are you heading back
to the station?
Not yet. My train doesn't leave
for a few more hours.
And the weirdest thing. There's
a photo of my dad, in the cafe,
- from like 25 years ago.
- Really?
Yeah. Crazy, right?
Sounds like a little bit of fate
brought you to Grandon Falls.
Mm, maybe so.
It was really great to meet you,
Lauren.
Nice to meet you too, Travis.
Thanks for all your assistance.
What I do.
(MIAOWS)
Ready for Springfield, Sassy?
(PURRS)
A Christmas angel
with a broken wing.
I know it's a long shot.
But I think my dad mailed it
back here to have it fixed.
And...he wasn't able to follow up.
But I still have the wing.
It got separated somehow.
And you've kept it this whole time?
I've kept it with all my dad's
letters after he passed.
So it's incredibly special to me.
I understand.
I feel like I've seen
something like this recently.
Really?
Maybe. Unfortunately,
I don't know where.
But... But it could be here?
Could be.
Somewhere.
My dear Lauren.
The world can be a magical place.
DAD: Always be open to the potential
surprises it can offer.
Especially the ones that come
when you least expect it.
I so wish I could be there with you.
Happy sweet 16th.
Love always, Dad.
Grandon Falls.
What a beautiful little town.
(PURRING)
Any luck?
Oh, not yet.
I think I'm going to pause
and go get something to eat
at Betty's.
Her cookies are the best.
Oh, I'm aware.
(LAUGHS)
Oh, you're still here.
All the other train folk
left yesterday.
Yeah, I decided to stay
a couple extra days.
I knew you would. Excuse me.
It's really busy today.
Oh, hon, you can leave that.
Don't worry about it.
Help your customers.
I've done my fair share
of waitressing.
- I'll just clean up a bit.
- Thank you.
You're a lifesaver.
Oh, the dishwasher's
on the fix-it list.
So we're just stacking them
on the sink.
You know you got a job here
if you want it.
- Think of the perks.
- Such as?
Free cookies.
Well, hello, Mr Fix It.
Hi, Betty.
Lauren!
Travis!
You two know each other?
We met the other day.
So you're fixing the dishwasher?
Actually, the problem with
this charming establishment
is behind the walls.
For the umpteenth time, Betty,
you need new wiring.
Not a new dishwasher.
It's such a big job.
It's only going to get bigger
if you don't deal with it now.
(SIGHS) Fine, fine. Wire away.
I will attempt to fix it for today
and get the dishwasher back up.
I'll come by between my other jobs
and bring the rest of this place
- up to speed.
- Thank you, Travis.
Dylan, I would like
to introduce you to Lauren...
Gabriel.
Miss Gabriel.
And Lauren, this young man is Dylan.
- Hi.
- Hi.
Nice to formally meet you, Dylan.
Travis said I could have a cookie
while he worked.
Well, you came to the right place.
May I have a cookie for Dylan?
Absolutely.
Thank you. There's Liam.
I'm going to go say hi.
Liam and his mom
are one of the families
that lost their homes in Rocklin.
So now Liam's in Dylan's class.
He's a good kid.
So er...
Are you staying?
Yeah, for a couple of days.
Yeah, well, I should...
I'm going to get started.
(THUD, BELLS TINKLE)
Hm.
(MUTTERS)
Oh, I wonder what's inside!
- I like this one.
- Good choice.
Some folks still think it's strange
that I sell these boxes to people
without them even knowing
- what's inside.
- But that's the fun!
Taking a chance,
finding hidden treasures.
My sentiments exactly.
I just have a feeling that Betty's
going to love this one.
Sure you're right.
- Have a great day, Rod.
- Okey-doke.
- Hello, hello!
- I'm working.
You're going to have to wait
your turn.
Even if I come bearing gifts?
Oh! Ohh!
Much as I want to see what's inside,
I can't, I'm the only one on.
Er... Well, and Lauren.
She's sort of recruited for the day.
- Nice to meet you.
- Gloria.
This is my best friend.
And silent partner.
Though I'm seldom silent.
That is true.
Gloria's been teaching at our local
elementary school since...
Well, longer than anyone
can remember.
- Including me.
- Oh, I'm a teacher too.
I'll be starting at Springfield
Northern in January.
It's always nice to meet
a fellow teacher.
The world's most important
profession, if I do say so myself.
And I did! (LAUGHS)
It's really calmed down.
If you want me to watch the front
- while you take a break, you can.
- Hon,
you've already been too generous.
Oh, no-one's too generous.
We'll just be a sec.
Thank you.
Come on, I want to see
what's in here!
OK. I guess I do too.
You boys look like you could
each use another cookie.
Thanks.
- Thank you.
- I'm Jill. This is Liam.
- Hi.
- I'm Lauren.
Travis told me what happened
in Rocklin.
- I'm so sorry.
- Oh, thank you.
Yeah, that's um...
That's a lot to process.
But God bless Grandon Falls
for welcoming us.
And Liam is joining our hockey team.
Oh!
Dylan, you're an angel.
Mom!
Come on, Liam. Let's go.
See you at school.
Nice to meet you.
Nice to meet you too.
- Bye.
- Come on, bud.
Are you missing your coat again?
Did you give it to Liam?
Was that wrong?
It was kind.
Which is never wrong.
Those guys from Rocklin,
they need a lot more stuff.
I wish I could find them
a bunch of clothes.
You know what it's like
to lose everything, don't you?
- I do too.
- You do?
I was a foster kid too.
- Like me?
- Just like you.
Welcome to the club.
Oh, he's so cute! Look!
Keeper.
What do you think?
I think the Seventies
are calling that one back to them.
Yeah, 'fraid so.
Oh. Oh, she's almost pretty.
- Except for the broken wing.
- Yeah.
Oh, it's too bad.
Who is this little guy?
(BELL TINKLES)
Lauren has a cat.
- She should put it on his collar.
- Mm.
OK, that's it. I think the rest
of this has to go in the trash.
Hm, I wanted more.
You always want more.
You paid five dollars for it.
What were you expecting?
- Priceless treasures?
- Hm.
Thanks. I love you.
I'll see you soon.
All right, bye, honey.
(SHIVERS)
Ooh! Ooh!
I don't want your money.
It's only fair.
I really appreciate you
helping me out today.
I needed it.
You know, the closer
we get to Christmas,
the busier it gets around here.
And I'm having no bites
on hiring anyone.
Sure you don't want to stay around
a little longer?
I mean, maybe this was meant to be.
I have to get to Springfield
eventually.
Eventually.
Think about it.
Hi.
A charity drive!
- Um... A what?
- What Dylan
was talking about earlier.
Wanting a bunch of coats
for the Rocklin families.
We could have a charity drive
and encourage people to donate a
whole bunch of stuff, not just coats.
Doing the most good.
That's a great idea.
Um... Did you say we?
Well, yeah. Of course I would help.
What happened to having
to get back to Springfield?
My new position doesn't start
until the new year.
I want to stay here in Grandon Falls
for a couple of weeks, helping.
I'm going to ask Mr Loomis if I can
stay a little while longer.
I'm sure Rod won't object to that.
I will make sure he doesn't.
And I could help you
and work here while I'm in town.
Well, I would love that.
We should meet tomorrow
and talk about it.
That sounds good.
You were going to get
the Christmas tree tomorrow
while I'm at hockey practice.
That is exactly right.
I was. I am.
Er... Maybe you could join me
and we could talk
while I cut it down.
Oh. Cut it down?
It's in the woods. I find
that's a good place to get trees.
Yeah, well, um...
I mean, I'm not really
an out in the woods type person.
I... I mean, I like trees.
They're beautiful.
Who doesn't?
But I'm more of a stay in the cabin
sipping hot cocoa kind of girl.
As opposed to walking in the woods.
Hm.
You could do it.
I'll teach you.
Have you always been Mr Fix It?
Er... Sort of.
I got my degree in architectural
engineering from Syracuse.
Oh. Wow.
After five years
at a firm in Boston,
I realised that my favourite part
is when I got to do the things
that I envisioned for myself
instead of hiring subcontractors.
I always liked
working with my hands.
What about you?
Have you always loved Boston?
Oh... Well, in a lot of ways, I did.
But I just ended a relationship.
And got a new job.
Which meant moving.
That is the big three stressers
right there.
Yeah, well, I like to go for
the hat-trick.
Oh, this is really lovely.
But it's a long way to go
for a Christmas tree.
It's sort of a family tradition.
I brought Dylan out here
last summer.
He loved it.
How long has Dylan been with you?
Eight months.
Is that when his parents...
No, that was four years ago.
- Oh.
- He's had a couple
of foster families.
But they all moved.
There was one that came close
to adopting him.
The Conrads. But they wound up
moving to North Carolina
because of a job transfer.
Dylan wants to stay here
in Grandon Falls.
It's his home.
It's been really hard on him.
Yeah.
I know how it feels.
I remember what that was like.
Did you...
Did you grow up in foster care?
I did.
- After my dad passed.
- For how long?
The whole way.
Wow.
Oh!
(CHUCKLES)
So tell me more about your ideas
for a charity drive.
I was thinking we could put
barrels out
and then people could donate
everything.
Shoes, toys, clothes.
That's good. Families from Rocklin,
they need lots of everything.
And Salvation Army is going to
deliver everything we collected
on Christmas Day.
So I was thinking, how about the name
Restore Rocklin
for the charity drive?
What about Repair Rocklin?
Mm. Or...
..Rebuild Rocklin?
Rebuild Rocklin. Sold.
Yes!
(GRUNTS)
This is your house?
Well, I'm still painting
and doing some fixtures
and a few other things.
Dylan and I have been living here
while I've been working on it.
So it's taking a little longer
to finish.
Previous owner, he got transferred
to Florida.
So he had to sell fast.
I just couldn't pass up the deal.
White picket fence.
Too cliche?
No, it's...
It needs to settle.
Let the branches fan out
before decorating it.
Seems gigantic in here.
Don't worry, I brought my ladder.
You'll have no problem
reaching the top.
- Me?
- Yes, you helped cut it down.
That means you have to help
decorate it.
- It's the law.
- Oh, it's the law?
Article 24, paragraph two,
in the Grandon Falls charter.
- Travis!
- Trust me on this!
Travis!
Awesome!
Does this meet with your approval?
Of course! That's the tallest tree
I've ever had!
Are you going to help us decorate?
Well, yeah. It's the law.
♪ Not only green when summer's here
♪ But also winter's cold and drear
♪ Oh Christmas tree,
oh Christmas tree
♪ Your leaves are so unchanging ♪
You got the stuff?
Right up there.
Do us the honour?
- Oh, it's all yours.
- Thanks.
- Go ahead.
- You need a ride?
Yeah, yeah.
- Got it?
- Yeah.
♪ Oh Christmas tree,
oh Christmas tree
♪ Thy candles shine so brightly
- Great job!
- Awesome.
♪ Thy candles shine so brightly ♪
- That is one good-looking star.
- Yeah.
We're good at this.
- Good night.
- Good night.
- It was fun.
- Mm-hm.
(PHONE RINGS)
Here's your Rebuild Rocklin barrel!
Good job, boys. Yeah, right there
so nobody can miss it.
(GRUNTS)
Ah, perfect! Thank you.
You're welcome.
Also, can you take this
out back for me?
I'll see you later.
I've got cookies in the oven.
Let me see.
- Broken.
- So was the house
before you bought it.
And you fixed it up.
Isn't that what you do?
Fix things?
Maybe I could fix it.
OK, buddy.
DAD: Dearest Lauren,
happy 18th birthday.
Soon it will be time
for you to graduate.
You still have a few more weeks
before you cross the stage
and move into the next stage
of your life.
So take a moment to think about
where you've been,
where you are,
and where you could be.
And don't be afraid.
Change is inevitable.
Change is how we grow.
Love always, Dad.
(DIALS)
(RING TONE)
- Hello?
- Eric, hi.
Hi!
Er... Hi.
Yeah. No, I called yesterday
and I just didn't leave a message.
I read your letter.
So many times.
And I...just keep reading it.
Lauren, I didn't want
to disappoint you.
That's why... That's why I never
brought up the kid thing sooner.
But eventually, I had to tell you
that things have changed for me.
You know how I feel about you.
And it's not like I don't ever
want to have kids.
I thought you admired my ambition.
I do. But that's not the point.
I know. I know.
How about this? I know how crazy
you are about letters.
Why don't I write you one?
Yeah, that sounds nice.
Great.
Text me your address in Springfield.
I'm not in Springfield.
You're not? Where are you?
Grandon Falls. Took a little detour.
- Where?
- It's between Boston
and Springfield.
It's just for the holidays.
So no need to worry.
I'll text you that address.
OK, great. Thank you.
I'm looking forward to your letter.
All right. Bye.
Bye.
- Lauren!
- Hi!
We heard about the charity drive.
Dylan's been telling everyone
about it.
It means so much to us.
All of us from Rocklin.
We are proud people, but we sure
could use some help right now.
Of course.
So what can we do?
(BELL TINKLES)
- Hi!
- Hi.
Can I have a cupcake?
Sure.
Thanks.
Hi, Lauren. I'm Karen Lyst,
Dylan's case worker.
- Oh, nice to meet you.
- He has been
going on and on about you.
I wanted to thank you
for being so kind with him.
He makes it really easy.
OK, Lauren, let there be light!
Travis, why do Betty and I
get the feeling
the cost of this job
is going up every day?
Because you are wise women
with keen intuition.
Well, I told Betty that maybe
you and I could make a deal.
A maybe deal on what?
In exchange for a discount
on your excellent,
although somewhat protracted
wiring services,
I could help you finish decorating
your house.
- Oh, really?
- Really.
OK, so let's negotiate.
Dylan and I were going to put up
Christmas lights. We could use help.
Is that included in the deal?
Just your house?
Just ours.
OK, included in the deal.
And... And? Wait, there's more?
There is. You got to come with Dylan
and I tonight to sing carols.
Tonight is the first night
of the Christmas festival.
Oh, right.
The twelve days of Christmas.
Exactly. Every night, something else
happens to bring the town together
to celebrate Christmas.
Because it's Christmas Town!
So, included in the deal?
ALL: # Silent night
♪ Holy night
♪ All is calm
♪ All is bright
♪ Round yon virgin mother
♪ And child
♪ Holy infant
♪ So tender and mild
♪ Sleep in heavenly peace
♪ Sleep in heavenly peace ♪
You know what this feels like?
- What?
- We're making the house happy.
Christmas makes everyone happy.
Whoo! How does it look
from down there?
- Awesome!
- Fantastic.
You know, when I was your age,
my dad said that Christmas lights
were like landing lights
for those people up in heaven.
So they would look down at these
lights every Christmas,
and they would know that
their loved ones were OK.
I like that.
Time to finish my snowman!
(CHUCKLES)
Are you coming ice-skating
with us tomorrow?
- I don't have any skates.
- Uh!
That's a terrible excuse.
You can rent them.
Well, then I guess I'm going skating.
You are. With us.
You're going to miss him
when he gets adopted.
Very much. But...it's not about me.
It's about him.
Finding his forever family.
That's what I want for him.
- And to be loved.
- Oh, he's loved.
Yeah, that's obvious.
Come on, come see my snowman!
- Wow!
- Wow!
That's the best snowman
I've ever seen.
OK, we need a picture of this.
A cap too.
OK, ready?
Best smiles!
What's the matter, buddy?
If someone wants to adopt me,
am I going to lose you?
Never. No matter what, I promise.
In your new life, you're going to
have the best time.
And I'm going to come visit.
Can you please fix this?
It won't light up.
Sure.
You still up for Lauren's surprise?
It's a Christmas surprise.
(BELL)
Oh, beautiful.
Oh, she's here! Hide that!
- Hi!
- Good morning.
Good morning.
It is really beautiful in here.
You always wanted to own
your own cafe?
Hm, never crossed my mind
until my first day in this town.
- A very long time ago.
- Ahem!
I stopped by this cafe that morning.
And I fell in love with it.
And that night, I dreamt
that it was mine.
Next morning, there was
a For Sale sign in the window.
(LAUGHS)
When I was a kid, I dreamed of a
Christmas in a big beautiful home.
Surrounded by family.
Kinda like this.
Oh, that's sweet.
So how are the donations
coming along?
Oh, they could be better.
Need some nudging?
Betty's a good nudge.
We all have our talents.
- That would be wonderful.
- You got it.
Oh, boy, time to open!
One for the road.
So this is day two
of our Christmas festival.
Tomorrow is tobogganing.
- I'm working.
- Who's watching me?
I can.
That would be so helpful. Thank you.
Night nine is the Christmas dance.
Want to come with us?
Oh... Yes, I would be honoured.
Lauren, Lauren, watch me!
Whoo!
Yeah, I taught him that.
I told him, one day, girls would
think it was cool.
Did that work for you?
Er... Sure, until I would fall,
and they skated away.
(LAUGHS)
So how many women have skated away?
Only one that counted. Kayla.
Kayla.
It was a couple of years ago.
Was it serious?
Well, we were engaged.
Oh, so, very serious.
Until she decided she wanted
to live in Miami.
She couldn't stand the cold.
At least, that's what she said.
And no-one since then?
I've found that Grandon Falls
is not for everyone.
But once you do get it...
..not easily forgotten.
See you tomorrow, guys.
(DOOR CLOSES)
- Surprise!
- Surprise!
I hope you don't mind.
Rod let us in.
And helped us decorate.
I hope you like it.
Oh, I love it! My own tree!
We wanted to do something special
for you.
You've been so generous.
You've been a real delight.
And you deserved a good surprise.
A Christmas surprise!
Ohh!
I love surprises! Thank you so much!
You know how seriously we take
our Christmas around here.
And this empty attic
needed some decorating.
And a little holiday cheer.
That's for sure.
Are there any snacks? I'm hungry.
You betcha there's snacks!
♪ Dashing through the snow
♪ In a one-horse open sleigh
♪ Over the fields we go
♪ Prancing all the way
♪ Bells on bobtails ring
♪ Making spirits bright
♪ What fun it is to ride and sing
♪ That sleighing song tonight ♪
These are my favourite.
Mm, these might be my favourite too.
♪ Jingle all the way
♪ Oh, what fun it is to ride
♪ In a one-horse open sleigh
♪ Jingle bells, jingle bells ♪
(PURRING)
(PHONE RINGS)
Oh, Sassy.
Nothing is ever simple.
(BELL RINGS)
MAN: Rocklin charity coat drive!
WOMAN: Rocklin charity coat drive!
- Good morning, Gloria.
- Hi.
Enjoying your school break?
Break? What break?
Betty's put me to work.
Now I'm book-keeping.
I'm terrible at math,
but I have cranberry muffins!
But there are benefits.
Can I have a couple?
I'm baby-sitting Dylan tonight.
After all you've done for me, I will
bag up the whole bunch for you.
Let's not be hasty!
I don't know where she puts it.
So...have you given any thought to
our outfit for the Christmas dance?
Oh, I'm still weighing my options.
- Mm.
- And on that note,
I'm just curious, Gloria.
Do you know if there are any openings
for teachers at your school?
Er... Not often.
But I'll check.
Thank you. I'd appreciate that.
Whoa! Pft!
Thanks for watching me tonight.
- I had a lot of fun.
- Me too.
Maybe you could watch me again.
When Travis has to work late.
Yeah, I'd like that.
Even when you're in Springfield?
Ooh, well, that's kind of far
for baby-sitting.
Yeah.
I wish you weren't leaving.
I really like having you here.
Ohh.
I really like being here too.
(SIGHS) So what was it like for you?
When you were in foster care.
Oh...
Well, it was a lot of things.
Mostly good.
Some challenges.
But that's true for everyone
growing up.
Yeah.
Did you ever have someone
try to adopt you?
But then stop?
Twice.
(SIGHS)
Are you thinking about the Conrads?
I used to be sad
they didn't adopt me.
- But now I'm glad.
- You are?
Yeah. This way, I get to be
with Travis.
And now you.
You know, my father wrote me letters
while I was growing up.
Very special letters
for each birthday.
He found a way to have them
delivered.
And for my tenth birthday,
when I was your age,
he wrote 'Sometimes God closes doors
for reasons we may never know.
But where there's faith,
there's hope.
And we hang onto that hope.
With hope, there's always
another door that can open.'
- Hope.
- Hope.
- Good night.
- Good night.
Hi, God. Please do anything you can
to keep Lauren from going
to Springfield.
- Is he OK?
- Yeah.
He's just got a lot going on.
Well, you do too.
So thanks for watching him.
Yeah, we had fun.
I wish I could have been here.
I... It's um...a really nice night.
I think I'm going to walk home.
(SIGHS)
Sorry, buddy.
My dearest Lauren.
I'm writing you this letter
from Grandon Falls
to be delivered to you
on your 21st birthday.
What a beautiful, amazing person
you must be.
DAD: All these years,
you were never alone.
I hope you know that.
On this special day, let me share
one of my favourite quotes.
We are not here for ourselves.
- Karen, hi.
- Hi.
I was hoping to talk to you.
- About?
- Dylan's future.
And mine.
Sure.
I've been Dylan's case worker
all along.
I know he likes you.
And I can tell that you're sincere
about this.
But I need you to understand there's
no guarantee it will be approved.
I know how the process works.
Just from a different perspective.
So you understand that, for now,
we can't say anything to Dylan.
I do.
Or anyone else really.
It's a small community.
We don't want to get
anyone's hopes up.
Especially Dylan's.
Not a word, I promise.
This afternoon, 4pm sharp.
The school.
- You have an interview.
- What... What?
Today? At four?
Really? That's, like, in an hour.
Betty, let her off early.
Lauren, you're off early.
Don't be so bossy!
So there's really an opening?
- There is.
- Wow, I don't know
what to say.
I do. Go in there and get the job!
Yes. OK!
- Gloria, thank you!
- You're welcome.
- So much!
- And put on a nice dress.
- OK.
- They're going to love you!
- Good luck, honey!
- Thanks.
You did something, didn't you?
I simply don't know
what you're suggesting.
(BELL)
So I just got off the phone
with your previous principal.
He said he's sorry to lose you,
but it seems like it's our gain.
So if you pass
the background check -Oh, I will!
..and you can start in January,
looks like the job is yours.
- Really?
- Really.
Your timing is perfect.
- My timing?
- Well, with Gloria
announcing her early retirement.
Oh. Wait, Gloria is retiring?
Effective immediately.
I never thought I'd see this day.
Oh, I was in quite a pickle
until she told me about you and...
- Well, here you are.
- Wait.
Gloria told you about me
specifically?
For her class.
She wanted someone she trusted
to take over.
Where is she?
In the back, rolling dough.
Why would she do this?
Because it's time.
Gloria, I don't want
to take your job!
You're not taking my job.
After 30 years, I've earned this.
Besides, I need to be here
to protect my investment.
You bet you do.
And I plan to travel.
Only in the summer.
Really?
It's what I want.
- OK.
- Yay!
I have to call
all the Springfield people.
I have to call the superintendent.
I'll call the superintendent
and smooth things over.
Don't worry,
Robert and I go way back.
- You're amazing!
- True.
And we will help you
find a place to live here.
The attic is nice. Especially now.
She is going to need
an apartment or a house.
You're right.
You two...
You feel like family.
That's because
that's what we are here.
Welcome to Grandon Falls.
(BREATHES HEAVILY)
(MIAOWING) Sassy...
..I don't know why I am so nervous.
It's just a dance.
OK, maybe I do.
(KNOCKING)
- Lauren?
- Come on up!
Wow.
Wow yourself.
Ahem.
Er... Dylan's waiting in the truck.
Shall we?
We shall.
♪ JAZZ
This is fantastic!
Want to dance? I'm not very good,
but I have some moves.
Oh, well, sure.
I got some moves too.
Do you remember your parents?
Oh, well... My dad, I do.
My mom, only in pictures.
In my dreams, I still see mine.
You would have liked them.
They would have liked you.
OK, I have something to tell you.
I'm not going anywhere.
- I'm staying in Grandon Falls.
- Really?
Uh-huh.
- Are you excited?
- Yeah.
I got a new-new teaching position.
And I start here in January.
I'm so glad. Can I tell Travis?
Um... Well, if it's OK,
I'd like to tell him.
Sure. I'm just glad you're staying.
- Yeah, me too.
- Is it OK
if I get a cookie?
Of course. Go get one.
May I have this dance?
My mom taught me to dance.
She taught you well.
How do you like your first Christmas
in Grandon Falls?
Well, you all made me a believer
in the magic of Christmas.
Thank you.
You're welcome.
You are beaming.
I am?
All night.
Actually, I um...
I made a big decision.
A couple of them, but I just can't
tell anyone yet.
It's you, isn't it?
What do you mean?
When somebody applies to adopt
a child that I'm fostering,
Karen lets me know
that they're opening a new file.
But they don't tell me anything.
But I'm aware of it.
I got that call today.
I'm right, aren't I?
- Yes.
- You're adopting Dylan.
- What's going on?
- I don't know.
Will you watch Dylan for a second?
Of course, yeah.
Hey, Travis. What's going on?
I'm not allowed to talk about
the adoption.
If I were, I would have told you,
of course.
You must know the protocol.
Yeah, I do.
Then what is it?
It's too soon.
You've only known him
for just two weeks.
This is a big decision.
Yeah, I'm aware.
More than most.
Which is why I would never do
anything to risk hurting Dylan.
I know that you are a good person
with a kind heart.
But I would hate for you
to change your mind
and for Dylan to end up
getting hurt again.
(SIGHS)
You know...
Sometimes you meet someone
and you don't have to know them
for two weeks or a month
to know that they belong
in your life.
And that's how I feel about Dylan.
I'm not going into this lightly
or easily.
I know what it's like to be
on Dylan's side of the equation.
Which is why I'm taking extra
precaution not to get his hopes up.
And I also know what it feels like
when no-one is willing
to step forward for you.
And if I can stop that happening
to Dylan, then I will.
I didn't mean to -You know what?
I'm going to go.
(SIGHS)
DAD: Dear Lauren.
Happy 13th birthday.
By now, you know that life
is full of ups and downs.
But never let that stop you
from leading with your heart.
For it is always better
to walk life's path
with love and faith
than to stand still
in fear and inaction.
You'll come to a new corner
sooner than you think!
I love you, honey.
And I wish that I could be there
with you.
I must have entered it wrong.
(BELL TINKLES)
Good morning, ladies!
The Salvation Army just picked up
another truckload of donations.
People are giving so much.
It's great.
- Don't you think?
- Sure.
But the real question is -
What happened last night?
- Happened?
- With Travis.
You left after the two of you went
- outside.
- Didn't stay for the dance.
Right.
It's kind of a long story.
(DOOR)
Come bearing chocolate!
I owe you an apology.
I never meant to imply
that you weren't taking the idea
of adopting Dylan seriously.
We haven't known each other
a long time,
but I know you're not
the type of person
that would enter into something
this important lightly.
Thank you.
I realised later...
..that's not what made me upset.
Then what was it?
I'm just not ready to lose him.
I know that you're going to make a
great home for him in Springfield.
You're going to be a great mom.
But I can't pretend to be happy
about losing you both.
No, Travis, I'm -
I've been down this road before
with Kayla.
Hey, I'm not Kayla.
And I'm not moving to Springfield.
- You're not?
- No.
So um...
Are you returning to Boston or...
I'm staying in Grandon Falls.
What about teaching full-time?
That's something you always wanted.
I'm taking over for Gloria.
She's retiring early.
She's going to help Betty
at the cafe. And travel.
So you're not going anywhere.
No.
I'm staying right here.
You OK with that?
I'm more than OK with that.
Don't mind me, I'm just going
to the store! I'm out of flour.
I saw nothing! I saw nothing!
(CHUCKLES)
Come on, hurry! We're going to be
late for the gingerbread challenge!
I'm going as fast as I can!
- Ohh!
- Whoa!
It's OK, I'm all right.
Ohh!(LAUGHS)
(LAUGHS)
Ohh...
I got you.
I'll get you up.
Oh!
It's like that, huh?
- So close!
- I'm going to get you.
Take that!
For you, Lauren!
- Eric!
- Hi, Lauren.
I... I er...
I thought you were...
Writing you a letter?
Yeah... I tried.
But no-one writes a letter
like you do.
So I figured I would come out here
in person instead
to say all I had to say.
Ahem.
Oh, um... Sorry, sorry.
- Eric, this is Dylan.
- Hi, Dylan.
- I'm Eric Fitzgerald.
- Hi.
And this is Travis Mabrey.
- Hi.
- Hi.
Welcome to Grandon Falls.
Um... Am I interrupting something?
We were going to a gingerbread
contest. But it's no big deal.
Me and Dylan,
we can handle things ourselves.
You sure?
Yeah, completely. You guys have
probably got a lot to talk about.
We do.
So are you and Travis like...
Sorry. My bad.
I just... I'd really like for us
to get back together again,
if it's even remotely possible.
We made plans. I thought
we were on the same page.
I know I hurt you by holding back.
I was...
I was afraid that if I shared
that my goals had shifted,
I would lose you. And I did.
You still have feelings for me?
Yes.
Which is why it makes this so hard.
There's no-one else I want to
eventually start a family with.
Eventually?
Well, yeah. You're going to be
teaching full-time.
And I'm starting a new job.
Do you really think
now is the time to have a baby?
There are things
already in motion here
that I can't talk about yet.
But all I can say is this has
nothing to do with having a baby.
OK. Well, let's spend Christmas
together
and then you can tell me
whatever that is.
Lauren, I'm ready to change.
For you.
I don't want you to change for me.
I want you to be you.
What about you?
I mean...
Is this place really you?
Yeah, it is.
I found something here that I've
always been wanting to experience.
A family.
I'm not going to Springfield.
I start a teaching position here
in January.
That's a lot of change
to go through.
But if you'll let me, I'd like
to go through that with you.
Please, just at least
give us a chance.
Don't we deserve that?
Hey, Dylan.
You OK?
(SIGHS)
That's her boyfriend, right?
I think at some point he was.
Is he now?
Hm... I don't know.
Can't you fix it?
You have to fix it.
Oh, buddy. Um...
There are some things
that I can't fix.
It's late.
Why don't you get some sleep?
Hi, God. It's me again.
Gloria, Betty. This is Eric.
- Morning, ladies.
- Good morning.
Welcome to the Christmas Cafe.
Thanks.
What a cool place.
Come here.
I want to show you something.
This is my dad.
Wow. Hey, is that the Christmas
angel he gave you?
- The one that broke?
- Mm-hm.
He got it here.
Wow, you and Grandon Falls
sure have a history.
I'm going to get some coffee.
Would you like some?
Yeah.
I'm done here, Betty.
Shouldn't have any more problems.
Oh, thank you, Travis.
- What do I owe you?
- Nothing.
- Merry Christmas.
- Oh, you...
Oh, bless your heart!
Merry Christmas.
Thank you.
I...
I'll be right back.
Travis!
I'm sorry. I...
I didn't plan on any of this.
I know.
Things happen.
(PHONE RINGS)
- Karen, hi.
- Hi, Lauren.
I'm calling about the adoption.
(PHONE PINGS)
Hi, honey. Are you coming to
the tree lighting tonight?
Um... Yeah.
Yeah. I'll meet you there though.
There's something I have to do first.
I'll save you a spot.
- Toodle-oo!
- See you there.
Thanks for meeting me.
And for coming all the way
to Grandon Falls.
I really do appreciate it.
Can I go first?
I reread your letter last night.
And...you're right.
And as much as I love you, and...
I do. I really do.
But ultimately, our lives are...
..taking us in different directions.
Mine's leading me to Manhattan.
And, well, yours...
..has led you here.
You're going to stay, aren't you?
I am.
I just got some news that...
Let's just say it clarified
a lot of things for me.
Like?
I'm home.
(CHATTER)
Where's Eric?
He left.
And... Are you...
..going with him?
My place is here.
And I got a call. From Karen.
And because of the holidays,
and Dylan's age...
..she got a quick decision.
They approved my application
for adoption!
Oh, Lord! (SNIFFS)
I am so happy.
As soon as I knew, you were
the first person I wanted to tell.
All I wanted to do was find you.
I am right here.
And I'm not going anywhere.
Neither am I.
- You made it!
- I wouldn't miss it!
Or you.
Hello, Grandon Falls and all
our friends from Rocklin!
ALL: Hi!
What a beautiful Christmas Eve, yes?
ALL: Yes!
That's the spirit.
This year, we are inviting
one of our newest townsfolk
to do the honours,
should she be amenable to that.
Lauren? If you will, please.
(LAUGHS)
- Yes.
- Give her a hand!
(APPLAUSE) Oh, thank you.
What an honour! Thank you so much.
I'd like to take this moment
to share that our campaign
to help the families of Rocklin
has not only breached
but exceeded our goal.
(CHEERING)
So a very big thank you
to Salvation Army.
We couldn't have done this
without you.
And to everyone that's from Rocklin,
we wish you a very merry Christmas.
(CHEERING)
And let's hear it for Dylan Hart!
He was the inspiration
that started all of this.
(CHEERING)
It's that kind of goodness
and kindness
that represents the very best
of the Christmas spirit.
So thank you, Dylan.
Now, are we all ready
for the big moment?
ALL: Yes!
- Ready, Miss?
- OK, let's do this!
In five...
ALL: Four! Three!
Two! One!
(CHEERING)
Hey, Dylan. Um... We'd like to talk
to you about an adoption.
Is it the Conrads?
No, it isn't, buddy.
Actually, Lauren has something
that she wants to say to you.
Dylan, if it's OK with you,
I'd like to adopt you.
I would like us to be a family.
- Really?
- Really!
Only if it's OK with you.
It's OK. It's more than OK.
Um...
But what about Travis?
I'd like to be part
of this family too.
Oh, I'm going to give you something.
All along, I have been designing
the perfect home
for the perfect Christmas...
..for the perfect woman.
I want to give you this.
I love it and I hope you will too.
Here.
It's my angel.
Where did you get it?
For so many years, this is the exact
angel I've been looking for.
Really? But it's missing a wing.
It's true, but...
..some angels just need
a little bit of help.
Look.
Welcome to our World! Where we serve you cookies to ensure you get the best viewing experience on our site.
Did you know that you can remove censorship board-wide, use our advanced search functions, be notified when new content is posted, join our memberships, set episodes to show in any order you want & more if you are logged into your account?
Register or sign in here: ucp.php?mode=register
Did you know that you can remove censorship board-wide, use our advanced search functions, be notified when new content is posted, join our memberships, set episodes to show in any order you want & more if you are logged into your account?
Register or sign in here: ucp.php?mode=register