Dashing through the snow
On a one-horse open sleigh
O'er the fields we go
Laughing all the way
Bells on bobtails ring
Making spirits bright
What fun it is to laugh
and sing
a sleighing song tonight.
Nana, will you tell me
a Christmas story now?
A story?
Yeah. One of your special
Christmas stories.
I'm not sure our tree
is quite finished yet.
There's one thing left
The Christmas star!
This is a very special star.
It's been in our family
for generations.
It's beautiful.
My parents let me put it up
on the tree
when I was a little girl.
Your father put it on the tree
when he was a boy.
Now you're old enough,
it's your turn.
Really?
Someday, Samantha, you'll
pass this on to your children.
Because it's a tradition.
And traditions are the stories
that families write together.
So, are you ready?
Our tradition.
Yes, I'd like to confirm
my reservation.
Samantha Murphy.
That's right!
The main lodge,
for the week of Christmas.
Thank you so much.
I've always been partial
to the star.
Oh, hi Samantha!
Merry Christmas!
Merry Christmas.
I always have a tough time
deciding.
Victoria's waiting for you.
I'll walk you in.
Great.
So, how are you?
I'm good.
Well, let me get
right to it, Sam.
When we published
your book last year,
we knew we'd found a talented
new writer with her own voice,
and a lovely story to tell.
And, fortunately,
our readers agreed.
Oh, that is so nice to hear.
Thank you.
Now, you know that
every Christmas,
we publish a slate
of holiday books.
These projects are very popular
with our readers.
Obviously, we have to put
together titles
a year in advance,
and this year, we'd like you
to write one of our
Christmas books.
Your work has so much heart.
Your characters are so
authentic.
It's a perfect fit.
Well, I've
I've never actually written a
Christmas story before, so
That's the best part.
We take your fresh voice,
add just the right touch
of mistletoe and holly?
Our readers will love it.
And what better time to come up
with ideas than now?
Everywhere you turn,
it's Christmas!
Everywhere you turn.
You're a wonderful writer, Sam.
I really want this to work out.
For both of us.
Okay.
I'm in.
Good.
Well, you have yourself
a holly, jolly Christmas
and get those creative juices
flowing.
We'll talk again at
the beginng of the year.
Merry Christmas!
Merry Christmas.
Congratulations!
I mean, that seems like a great
opportunity for you.
Simon, it is.
Writers wait years
for a chance like this.
It's just it's
a Christmas book.
Ahh.
That's difficult.
Yeah.
It's just I write from
a place of inspiration.
It has to feel real.
And how am I how am I
supposed to write about this
when Christmas hasn't felt
like Christmas in years?
Before my parents divorced,
we would go to my Nana's house
and she had this list
of traditions
we would all do as a family,
and we would check them off
as we finished.
That's a great memory.
It was so great.
And the holiday shuffle
took over.
My sister and I were bouncing
from mom and dad's.
I mean, we tried to keep
all the traditions alive,
it just it was never
the same.
I know how much you miss
your grandmother.
Especially now that the holidays
are here.
Just it won't feel
like Christmas without her.
And now that dad's selling
the house,
there'll just there'll be
nothing left to go back to.
That is why you and I are going
to Aspen to celebrate Christmas.
It's going to be our
first Christmas together,
and I intend to make it very
special for the both of us.
Who knows?
It might spark some ideas
for your book.
But what if I can't write it?
Or
What if you write
a really great book?
You'll be famous,
always on the road,
signing books, speaking to your
hordes of adoring fans
we'll never see each other
You know what, you're right.
Don't write it.
Terrible idea!
Don't write it at all.
Thank you for making me
feel better.
I'm your biggest fan.
Oh.
One guess.
You're producer.
News never sleeps.
and the most handsome
newsman
in all of New York City is mine.
I'm just an in-the-field guy.
I'm gonna get that anchor job,
and you, my dear,
are gonna write
a great Christmas book.
Taxi!
Bye.
Bye.
Hi.
Here we go.
Now we're talkin'.
Hey, sis.
Hey! Am I interrupting?
Uh, nope.
Just..
Taking a little break.
How are you doing?
Great, you know.
Just trying to wrangle a
class full of third graders
for story-time on the last day of
school before Christmas break
Have a good Christmas!
I can only imagine.
Yeah.
Did you, per chance,
read your mail yet?
My mail?
No.
Why?
You're gonna want to read
your mail.
Hey, Kiddo.
I thought I might hear
from you today.
Hey dad.
So, what do you make
of Nana's invite?
Yeah.
I talked to her lawyer, and uh,
looks like she set all
this up in August
while he was there helping her
to set up her estate.
She always had somethin' up
her sleeve.
Well, you know your grandmother.
Yes, I do.
It won't be the same
without Nana, but
this'll be our last chance
to spend Christmas at her house.
And I think it would mean a lot
to your grandmother for us
to be together again.
Then I'll be there, dad.
Great.
Okay, sweetie, I love you.
See you soon.
Love you too.
Those holiday treats
that you loved so much as a kid,
may be as close as your nearest
street corner.
I'm Simon Baker in Manhattan
wishing you a very
merry Christmas.
We're out.
That was pretty good.
Hey!
That was great.
Yeah? Thank you.
Yeah.
There have been a change
of plans for the holidays.
Okay?
So, my Nana made arrangements
for the whole family
to spend one last Christmas
together at her house
in Cedar Ridge, so
Wow.
Aspen will have to wait.
Well, one last Christmas
at your grandmother's house,
that sounds great.
Yeah.
Colorado will always be there.
I think this is way
more important.
You're not too disappointed?
Nah.
I know how much you love
your grandmother.
I think this is a really
good way to honour her.
Thank you.
Besides, I think it's about time
that I see that hometown
of yours, don't you?
What?
Yeah!
You wanna go with me?
I do!
What about your family?
It doesn't really matter
where I spend Christmas,
as long as I get to spend it
with you.
And, besides, I love
your family.
You're the best.
I don't know about that.
You're the best!
Well maybe.
Thank you.
Christmas is here again
Christmas is here again
Christmas is here again
Everybody's home
for Christmas
This is it
what do you think?
I think that people spend their
whole lives
wishing they could spend
Christmas in a place like this.
Oh, hey, wait.
Um, I forgot something.
Could you just
Uh Pull over here?
Perfect.
The sound of sleigh
bells ringing
The little children singing
They're celebrating
all around the world
Christmas is here
Won't you come over
Merry Christmas.
Hi, Ben.
Sammy Murphy!
Is that you?
Hi!
Oh!
Oh!
Back home for Christmas.
This is my boyfriend, Simon.
Simon, this is Ben.
This is his diner.
Nice to meet you, Ben.
Oh, pleasure's all mine.
I don't suppose Samantha told
you how her literary aspirations
blossomed right here,
in this very diner?
No, she didn't.
Well, see that booth over there?
Hmm-Mm.
Back in high school, she would
sit there for hours.
Hardly ever looked up
from her laptop.
That is true.
Yes.
Well, we're on our way
to the house to see dad,
and I was hoping to bring him
a surprise?
Ah, say no more!
What's the surprise?
You'll see.
There it is!
Here you go.
It's my family's own secret
recipe holiday eggnog.
Aaah! Let me
Oh, no!
It's on the house.
- Thank you so much.
- Thanks.
Merry Christmas.
Thank you.
Merry Christmas!
Aw, it's so good
so good to see you.
It's so good to see you,
darling.
Thank you, Ben!
Merry Christmas, Ben.
Great to meet you..
- All right.
- All right.
Wow.
It's beautiful.
Yeah. It is.
Come on.
Dad?
There she is!
Ah!
Aah.
Awe.
Hey dad.
How are you?
Oh, better for seeing you.
Simon. Welcome.
Good to see you.
Hey, good to see you too, Bill.
We come bearing gifts.
Mmm-Hm, Ben's eggnog.
Well, now it really
is Christmas.
Thank you, honey.
Yeah.
Well, I'm going to, uh,
put the bags away and give you
two a chance to catch up?
'Kay.
Oh, thanks, Simon.
Okay. Uh, Sam's room is
top of the stairs,
first door on the right,
and the guest room's
at the end of the hall.
Ok.
Be back in a minute.
Okay.
Thanks, sweetie.
So.
When is mom getting here?
Actually, she is coming
with Annie and Mark,
and they should be here
any time soon.
Are you sure you're okay
with all of that?
Why wouldn't I be?
I mean, you haven't been
in this house together
since the divorce.
Well, since your mom moved
her practice to Connecticut,
it's not like we actually travel
in the same circles anymore.
You know what I mean.
Yeah.
Sam.
Your mom and I just
grew apart.
But that doesn't mean we can't
spend Christmas together.
Especially when it meant so much
to your Grandmother
to have us all here.
Yeah.
Nana and your mom were always
very close.
I see you got started
on the lights.
Yes.
Hmm, I thought, well,
since we're here,
why not hang a little
Christmas cheer?
Do you want some help?
I was hoping you'd ask.
Okay.
Oh, here we go.
You almost finished the ribbons,
sweetie?
Workin' on it.
Ah!
They're here!
Ahhhh!
It's beginning to look a lot
like Christmas!
How are you?
It's been too long!
Looking good.
You too.
Hey, Sam?
How's it going?
Hi Mark!
Simon, how are you?
Thank you so much for coming!
Good to see ya!
Mom!
Sweetheart, oh!
I am so glad you're here.
I'm so glad you are here.
Oh, and Simon.
How are you, sweetie?
I'm good, how are you?
So happy you could
join us for this.
All the stories that Sam's
told me about this house?
I had to see it for myself.
Yeah, there's a good
many memories here.
I bet.
Yeah.
There sure are.
Hello, Bill.
Claire.
Hey, uh, look what Mark made
for all of us!
Right! Yes indeed.
Oh, yes, it's gorgeous.
What do ya' think?
Hey!
That's beautiful!
That's so nice.
Thank you. Yes.
Merry Christmas.
Uh, let me help with your,
uh your luggage.
No, I've got it.
Uh you mind holding this?
Yeah, I'd be honoured.
Thank you.
So, a Christmas book.
That's kind of cool.
Yeah.
It is.
I'm just I'm having
a little trouble
getting into the spirit
it needs.
Yeah, I miss Nana too.
Feels like she should be calling
us downstairs
to have hot chocolate right now.
Or going for a walk
through the snow,
looking at all the
Christmas decorations.
Oh, yeah.
But hey.
Maybe going back there
will make it better.
Plus, Simon's here,
so that's inspirational, right?
Why?
Stop it!
Well, I'm just saying,
it's a big step to bring him
home for Christmas.
I mean, are there wedding bells
in your future?
I think those are sleigh bells.
Dad hung them on the door.
Okay.
Seriously.
You've been dating for a year,
you cannot tell me that you
haven't talked about it.
We haven't talked about it.
We both have a lot on
our plates right now;
I have a book I have to figure
out how to write,
and he is always on call
with his job.
Sam
Annie?
Trust me.
Simon and I are on the same page
about this.
Marriage is just not
in the picture right now.
Okay.
Yeah, I'll stick around
for that, of course.
Sure, uh-huh.
Yeah, sure thing, Jack.
You keep me posted.
Great.
Sorry, that was my news director
from back at the station.
Everything okay?
There's a crazy coincidence.
There's a local Christmas
story here.
In Cedar Ridge?
In Cedar Ridge.
And they want me to cover it
while I'm here.
It would air on Christmas Eve,
so this is a much bigger story
than I've ever had before.
That's amazing!
Yeah!
And, believe me, this
This is a really nice story.
So what do you think?
I think that it's going to be
your best story yet.
I think so too.
Thank you.
So, this this past year.
Yeah?
It's, um, it's been good, right?
Where did that just come from?
I just I mean, you're happy
with the way things are?
We're on the same page, right?
Yeah, of course.
I couldn't be happier.
Okay.
Ooh, something's being
delivered.
Maybe an early Christmas
present.
I wonder who it's for?
Hey!
Hey!
We, uh, we got a package;
it's from Nana's lawyer.
What does it say?
Ah, here.
Thanks.
Hmm.
It's a letter.
Oh. Well, read it, Sammy.
"My dear family.
"Merry Christmas
and welcome home.
"It's been much too long
since you were all together.
"I only wish I could be
with you.
"I ask that you put aside
your sadness,
"and enjoy Christmas the way
we always used to.
"Just in case you forgot,
I've included a list.
"My wish is for you to complete
this list as a family."
What's the list?
Oh!
Oh my gosh, that's all of
our old Christmas traditions.
"Put up all the Christmas
decorations."
"Pick a tree from Finch's Farm
and decorate it."
"Make gingerbread cookies."
"Drink Nana's hot apple cider."
Of course!
"Go ice skating."
Um, ya?
"Get our family picture with
Santa at Benjamin's Diner."
"Go to the Cedar Ridge
Christmas Dance!"
"I love you with all my heart,
"Merry Christmas and God Bless.
Nana."
Wow.
Yeah.
Your grandmother always knew how
to make Christmas special.
It'll be like old times.
Hey.
Hey!
What are you doing?
Just looking over the list.
It's like I could hear her
voice again.
"Brought back all these
memories.
"Traditions are the stories
that families write together."
Something she used to say.
Hmm.
I like that.
Yeah.
Well, she'd like you.
I'm glad you think so.
Because, I wanna start a new
Christmas tradition.
Okay.
For us.
Okay.
Are you okay?
I had a whole speech prepared,
and suddenly I can't remember
a word.
But, uh Samantha.
I love you.
And I want to spend the rest
of our lives together.
Will you marry me?
- Congratulations!
- Congratulations!
Oh!
Yes. Yes!
Yes!
- Yes? Yes? Yes!!!
- Oh, my gosh!
That is fantastic!
- Oh my gosh, congratulations!
- Congratulations, guys!
Morning.
Good morning.
Still an early riser, I see.
You too.
Old habits.
Uh So the girls tell me that
your practice is doing well.
Yeah.
You know busy.
And how's retirement?
Are you missing life with the
Cedar Ridge police department?
Well, some days I still get
a little antsy,
but no, it's it's going
pretty well.
Gives me lots of time to do
other things.
It must be a nice change,
not running out at all hours,
on call 24/7, cop on the beat.
Well, it was my job, Claire.
And as I recall,
we were both kept pretty busy
there after the girls moved out
I was trying to make partner.
You know, I think I will take a
walk before we start decorating.
It's pretty cold out there.
Yes.
I know.
It's winter.
But, uh, I'll be fine.
Thanks.
Hey!
Sam!
Hey, there you are.
Here I am.
I was just thinking about
the best way for us
to tell my parents.
Right.
Your parents.
So I emailed them
to let them know
we have some pretty big news.
Wow, this is all happening
so fast.
So I was thinking we could call
them and tell them together?
Yeah. Sure.
Hey! Don't worry,
they love you, Sam.
They're gonna be so excited
about all of this.
Come here.
Got enough lights there, Bill?
We'll be able to be seen
from space at night.
Well, Mark, you can never have
too many Christmas lights.
Uh, that's not true
actually dad, remember?
Remember what?
Uh, oh nothing.
Nothing.
No, no, n-no.
When Annie and I were kids, dad
put up so many Christmas lights,
he actually blew the fuse box
in the house.
Okay, that is an exaggeration.
No!
We had to eat dinner
by candlelight,
and we had no electricity
for two days.
Not how I remember it.
Of course.
So, have you two picked
a date yet?
Mom!
What?
We just got engaged!
Well, what about
a summer wedding?
Which is six months from now!
Six months is plenty.
Yeah, but then you get
into June showers.
No, no, no, no.
It's April showers,
that ends with May flowers.
Which, by the way,
is a good thing.
Right.
Mm-mm.
Spring or summer, you should
not have an outdoor wedding.
Trust me.
Ugh.
Not this again, Claire.
Bill insisted on
an outdoor wedding.
I just wanted something
beautiful,
is that so bad?
I told him you can't have
an outdoor wedding
during rainy season.
But would he listen to me?
Of course not.
I just wanted this one thing.
It rained on us.
And I thought that was romantic.
My hair didn't think so.
You know what?
I'll, uh, put a few of these
lights back.
Yeah, dad. I'm gonna
help you.
Okay.
It's a long list, so where
should we start?
- We should get our tree first.
- Gingerbread men, definitely.
We always decorate
our tree first.
Well, the house always
smells so nice
Okay, so now what do we do?
Ice skating.
Oh, yes!
Ice skating it is.
Jingle bells,
Jingle bells
Jingle all the way!
Oh, what fun it is to ride
in a one-horse open sleigh!
Hey!
Jingle bells,
Jingle bells
Jingle all the way!
Oh, what fun it is to ride
in a one-horse open sleigh!
Ready?
All set.
I Think it's only fair
to remind you
that I did play one season
of pee-wee hockey.
Is this the same season
you broke your arm?
Shortest hockey career
ever recorded.
Oh, hey.
In all the excitement, we did
forget one very important thing.
What's that?
This.
Supposed to go on your finger.
Right?
Uh, yeah, um
umm.
I hope it fits.
It was my grandmother's.
My grandfather had it specially
made for their wedding.
Wow, it's um
It's beautiful.
My mom told me to use one of
your rings to get it sized,
but since you don't wear rings
I kind of had to eyeball it, so.
Think it works.
Okay.
Let's do this.
Let's hit the ice!
Over the fields we go
hi all the way!
Woo!
bells on bobtails
ring.
Yeah.
This feels good, to be back
out on the ice, right?
Look, I I was wanting to talk
to you actually,
about something that-
Woo!
Oh, she was fast.
You okay?
Yeah.
Uh
So I was just wanting
to talk to you, remember?
When my parents were talking
about the date?
Yeah.
Well, I just thought it might
be nice if we had a
a long engagement.
What?
Where's this coming from?
Uh, there's just a lot going on.
You know, I mean my parents
are, they're like strangers,
and I miss my grandmother,
and and I can't write.
Being back here,
it's just is, it's a lot.
I keep waiting for Christmas
to feel like Christmas
and I just don't know if
if now is is the right time.
Okay?
Um, look, I understand.
You've got a lot going on
right now.
I do, but, we just we never
talked about this.
You know?
And it just all seems to be
happening like, really fast.
It's a big step.
And if you if you need
more time
You guys ready to go
for a whirl?
Another Murphy family tradition?
I hope the rest of the list
is this fun.
Come on, you two.
Okay.
I'm sorry.
Let's let's talk about it
when we get home.
Okay?
Hey, mom, you looked
amazing out there.
Oh, please.
No, you did not miss a step.
Or should I say "stride?"
The only thing missing was that
red ribbon you used to wear
in your hair.
I remember that.
Okay.
Nana's hot apple cider,
coming right up.
Here.
This looks amazing.
But remember, we are not
done decorating
until we go to Finch's and pick
out the perfect Christmas tree.
It's on the list.
Hey, Sam, remember the first
time Nana took us there?
And we thought all those trees
were a Christmas forest?
It started snowing,
and we were convinced
we were gonna actually find
a real life reindeer.
Uh, is Simon still in the garage
getting boxes?
Oh, no, uh, I said I was going
to go chop
some more firewood for later,
and he offered to do it.
I could help.
Um, you know what?
I'll ask, and see if he wants
some hot apple cider.
Hi.
Hey.
I, um, brought you some cider.
It's good.
How long have you been thinking
about proposing?
Since Christmas Eve last year.
That's that's the first time
we met.
Sam, if it's a question
of a little more time,
I can give you that.
How much time do you need?
I don't know.
Look, why can't we go back
to the way things were
just a few days ago?
You said you were happy
with the way things are.
I, uh, I told Jack that I would
do this Christmas story for him.
So I'm gonna finish it up.
Then I think it's best
if I leave.
I, I'll go spend Christmas
with my family,
and we can talk when we
both get back to the city.
Really?
I think that's best.
I'm sorry.
I'm gonna finish up here.
I'll be in in a sec.
Okay.
Hey! How's the Christmas book
coming?
Not great.
Not great, why?
What's wrong?
I think Simon may have broken up
with me last night.
What?!
Oh, my gosh, Sam, I'm so sorry.
'Kay, wait, wait. Woah.
Why would he do that?
I might have told him that
I didn't know if I was ready
to get married yet.
Yep, that would probably do it.
Amy, what is wrong with me?
Nothing is wrong with you.
Hey.
I know you.
You're just worried
about getting hurt again.
Look at what happened with Paul.
I know the breakup with Paul
hurt you,
but Simon is not Paul.
What about mom and dad?
Yeah.
I love him, and I want
to be ready.
I just don't know if Simon
is willing to wait
for that day to come.
Yeah.
Please don't tell everyone else.
Of course, no. I would never.
Thank you.
You're welcome.
Tell everyone else
Uh, that we were gonna start
without you
to make gingerbread men?
Sam's really impatient.
Yeah.
Your grandmother used to make
THE best gingerbread cookies
I have ever tasted.
Yeah, but she would
never tell us the recipe.
She always just said
it's a family secret.
Did she ever tell you, dad?
Oh, are you kidding?
I wasn't even allowed in the
kitchen when she was baking.
I used to always stick
my fingers in the batter,
and take it, and
She always made enough
for you to take cookies
to the station house
every Christmas.
That is true.
I was always very popular
at the holidays.
See, Sam?
That's what you need to put
in your book.
What book?
It's nothing.
Ohh.
Sam had a meeting with her
publisher this week,
and they want her to do another
book for them.
Doesn't sound like nothing.
Sweetheart, that's wonderful.
Well, I'm just getting started,
so
Congratulations, kiddo!
What's it about?
Uh, it's a Christmas romance.
Oh!
That's gonna write itself!
I'll bet these last few days
have been very enlightening.
Oh, you have no idea.
Speaking of which, where
is that young man of yours?
He's on the phone with his boss.
They gave him a Christmas story
to do while he's here.
Oh, you didn't say anything
about that.
What kind of story?
Heartwarming and home
for the holidays.
It's my favourite kind.
Simon!
Pull up a chair and get yourself
a gingerbread man.
Uh, I would love to, but
I've gotta go do some work
on the story.
Oh.
Come on.
It's fun, AND it's one of our
family traditions.
Um
Okay.
Yeah, I guess I, uh, can stick
around for a minute or two.
I'll get you a paper.
You know, you never said, Simon.
Were your parents excited?
Uh, about my story?
No, silly, about you and Sam
getting engaged.
Oh, uh, right.
That.
Um.
You know, I haven't
told them yet.
You haven't?
I
Well, let's give them
a call right now.
That's a great idea.
Or or better yet,
we could do a video call,
and then we could all be
a part of it.
Yes!
I can't.
Why not?
Um.
Uh. My, uh my, my parents
are spending Christmas
out at my Aunt Linda's,
and the reception at her place
is not the best.
So, otherwise I would have told
them right away, of course.
Oh, that's too bad.
I'm sure you're eager to share.
I am, I am.
I'm, uh, I'm very eager.
Yeah.
Can I have the sprinkles?
Yes, yes. Red or white?
White please.
I wanna wake up with you
on Christmas Day
The first thing I should see
is your smiley face
We don't need nothing
under the tree
All I want for Christmas
is you and me
Hi Maisie.
Oh, hey Annie.
Your order will be ready
in a jiffy.
Sure, great.
Thank you.
Simon?
Oh.
Hey, Annie.
Hey.
Have a seat.
Sure.
Are you working or hiding?
Oh.
Uh, doing a little bit of both.
So, I'm, uh, I'm guessing
that Sam told you.
Yeah.
That can't be easy on either
of you.
Well
Maybe it wasn't the best time
for a proposal.
Mm, maybe.
But?
I think it's it's really
important that you know
Sam really does love you.
Yeah. Just not enough
to marry me.
Well, no.
It's a little bit complicated.
Yeah.
She told me about Paul.
Did she also tell you how days
before the wedding
he just called it all off?
No!
Yeah.
No, she didn't tell me that.
That's awful.
'Kay, look.
Between that and my parents'
divorce,
I mean, she lost her fianc,
she lost her happy family,
her perfect Christmas.
Sam took it really hard.
And I don't think she ever
really got over it.
But I know my sister, and
I know she really wants to.
She's just scared.
Please, please do not give up
on her.
And, I mean, it's Christmas.
Who knows what could happen?
Yeah.
Annie, your order's ready!
Uh, thank you!
Don't work too late.
Thanks, Annie.
You're welcome.
Christmas time
Pour me a hot mulled wine
Are you sure we shouldn't wait
for Simon?
You know what, he uh, he had
some work stuff to do, so
Ok.
You know, that one's
pretty great.
Oh, no, Bill, it needs
to be bigger.
It doesn't matter how tall
it is, Claire.
Oooh.
Actually, you know what?
Um, you're right.
Madeline's got far too many
decorations
for something that size.
Hey everybody.
Hey!
Hey.
Hey, I I I thought
you had to work.
I did, uh, but I thought
this was more important.
I mean, it's on the list, right?
Great.
Glad you're here.
Um, fellas, why don't you
follow me,
and we'll let the ladies gossip
about the wedding.
Gotcha.
Sounds good.
Thank you.
Speaking of gossip, you can
tell us how your date went
the other night.
You had a date?
Honey, there's no need
to sound so surprised.
It's not like I sit home
knitting every night.
She doesn't know how to knit.
Why didn't you tell me?
You didn't ask!
You knew?
I know.
So, who's the guy?
Oh.
His name is George.
He is another lawyer.
I met him through work.
He's a very nice man.
So, you don't miss dad?
Oh, sweetie.
Of course I do.
I'm just trying to move on
and make the most of my life.
Oh.
Look over there!
Aw, they're setting up
for a wedding.
A wedding at a Christmas tree
farm.
What a wonderful idea.
Don't you think so, Samantha?
Yeah.
Honey, you need to start
thinking about these things.
Do you want an indoor
or an outdoor wedding?
I don't
I don't know, um I
Found it!
Oh, she found it.
It's perfect.
Ta-da!
Perfect.
Right?
I know.
How is it?
It's perfect.
Oh.
Sorry.
No, no.
Go ahead.
Oh! Oh!
Would you look at that.
Samantha was so proud when she
brought this home from school.
So proud.
Look what I found.
Oh!
It's the family Santa album!
Oh my gosh, that is going
way back.
So far back!
Santa album?
Oh yes, it's one of our
family traditions,
and it's on Nana's list.
Oh-h*-h*-h*!
No!
Hello.
Look at that hair!
What?
You don't love the beautiful
home perm that I gave myself?
We used to go for breakfast
at Benjamin's Diner,
and then the entire family
would go for a Santa photo.
Woah.
Look at the big smiles
on those two!
Mom clearly had a thing
for a man in uniform.
Someone called in sick and your
father pulled a double shift,
and we didn't see much of him
that Christmas.
I was just happy to make
it there for the picture.
Me too.
Aww.
All right guys.
Let's finish up this tree.
Uh, I don't know, kiddo.
I think we're pretty good!
Yeah, looks good to me.
No, we haven't put up
Nana's star.
Oh!
Oh.
Uh, you know what?
I don't remember seeing that.
It's not in any of these boxes.
Well, I'm gonna go take a look.
It's gotta be somewhere.
Uh, Simon?
Maybe you want to see if
she needs a little help?
Oh.
Yeah. I'm gonna go see if she
needs a hand.
Okay great.
Where did you put it?
Hey.
Any luck?
Hey.
You didn't have to come
and help.
Seemed like the right thing
to do for a fianc.
Right.
Thanks.
Well, it could be anywhere.
Why wouldn't she just leave it
with the rest of the
Christmas ornaments?
Maybe because it is so special?
Yeah?
How so?
Well, ever since I was
a little kid,
my Nana and I had this tradition
where she would let me put
the Christmas star
on top of the tree.
And then we would sit together,
and she would tell me
one of her stories.
Hmm.
Does sound like a special star.
Yes, it is.
And we can't finish the
Christmas list without it.
Uh-oh.
What?
It's my parents.
Oh.
Hi mom!
Hi honey.
Merry Christmas!
How are you doing?
I'm good.
I'm good.
Uh, did you and dad make it
to Aunt Linda's okay?
Oh, sure.
The weather held off.
We made it no problem.
Your dad just stepped out
for a minute.
But, I've just seen your email.
You saw my email?
You've got me sitting
on the edge of my seat,
what's the big news?
Right, uh, the big news.
Um The big news.
Uh
Hi Laurie, it's Sam.
Hi, Sam!
Merry Christmas.
Merry Christmas to you too.
Um, Simon is is way
too modest to tell you,
so I will.
The station gave him
a Christmas Eve story
and it's kind of a big deal
and a great opportunity.
Surprise!
Oh, that's great.
That's so great, Sam.
You know what they say about
the first Christmas together?
It's always the most special.
It is.
It it it really is.
You know, I've never seen him
happier than when he's with you.
Merry Christmas, Samantha.
Merry Christmas to you, too.
Bye.
You okay?
Yeah.
Well, that
that was impressive.
Hey, you two!
Better get back in here
before the eggnog's gone!
Shall we?
Yeah.
I think I'm gonna turn in.
Are you sure?
Yeah, it's kind of a long day,
and it's getting late.
Um
We usually have a little party
after we decorate the tree.
Yeah.
I'd love for you to stay.
Besides, it'll be fun.
Okay.
Okay.
Okay.
Thank you.
Hey!
Did you find it?
No, but it has to be somewhere.
Oh, we'll find it sweetheart.
Okay.
Oh, Simon, come and see.
Uh, this is a picture of Sam
when she was 14,
and she and Annie decided
to dress up as elves
and hand out gifts.
That hair is definitely better.
Those elf costumes!
They were cute.
They were cute.
Thank you.
That's that's somethin',
all right.
Yeah, it is.
Aw.
This is my favourite.
Yeah.
Oh.
Morning.
Oh, um
Good morning.
Busy as ever?
Ah, just a couple of
last minute things
before my assistant closes up
the office for the holidays.
Yeah. Funny how we
used to talk about
how busy we both were when
the girls were growing up,
running here and there.
How we couldn't wait for things
to slow down
so we could have a little time
to ourselves?
Yeah.
Guess that didn't play out quite
the way we expected.
No. It did not.
Well I, uh, better get changed.
Remember we're going down
to the diner for breakfast
and the Santa photo
this morning?
Yeah. Ready when you are.
Remember the first time we went
for that photo together?
Your mom was so kind to me.
So welcoming.
She loved you like you were
her own daughter.
I know she did.
But, um.
Thank you.
Yeah.
See you soon.
Yeah.
O Christmas tree,
O, Christmas tree
Your leaves
are so unchanging
O, Christmas tree,
O, Christmas tree
Hey, Murphy family,
I believe you're next.
Great!
Oh, perfect.
Another Murphy family tradition.
Hey, look who's here.
Simon!
Hey.
I thought you got stuck
in a meeting.
Uh, I did.
But I, uh, finished it early.
Didn't want to miss seeing you
take your family Santa photo.
Aww!
Well, the important thing is,
you made it here
for the picture.
Excuse me.
You sit first.
We're next, Santa.
All right.
Simon, come on.
Everybody, squeeze in.
Let's make some room for Simon.
Oh
Uh, I think it's best
if I just
Oh, no, no, no.
You get in here beside
your bride-to-be.
Bill, I
This is a family photo
and you're going to be a part of
this family very soon.
Let's go.
You heard my dad.
Come on.
Okay. 'Tis the season.
Okay.
On three, "Merry Christmas."
One, two, three
Merry Christmas!
Hey, kiddo.
Hey.
Did you enjoy your walk?
Just wanted to clear my head
so I could try and get
some writing done.
A lot going on right now.
No kidding.
You want some company?
You bet.
Ah, it's cold.
You okay?
I was just walking around
and looking at all the Christmas
decorations and the lights,
and thinking about how much
I love Christmas here,
in this town,
in this house.
Yeah, it's always been
a pretty special place.
You'd think it'd inspire me
to write something.
Aw, sweetie.
You just have to be patient.
Ugh.
You never know when the
inspiration is gonna hit you.
We're almost done with the list.
Yeah.
You know what, it's been fun,
checking all the items off
the list like we used to.
Christmas is almost here.
Almost.
I am really going to miss
this house, dad.
Well, we will always have
our memories to treasure.
And her Christmas stories.
They were so great.
Yep.
I would not be a writer
if it weren't for her.
I just I wish I could find
a way
to keep her and her stories
alive forever.
What's stopping you?
She's always going
to be with you.
With all of us.
And you're always going
to have her stories.
They're not going away.
And hey, aren't you writers
all supposed to have a muse?
Hmm!
Hmmm.
Hmmm.
Hmm.
Yes!
Yes we are.
Thanks, dad.
Oh, don't thank me, kiddo.
It's my job.
Oh, I love you.
I love you, sweetie.
Morning!
Hey, good morning.
Where are you off to?
It's barely light out.
We're sh**ting my story today.
Oh!
Yeah.
You know, I don't even know
what your story's about.
Well, you should come see
for yourself.
It's about a couple
from around here.
Really?
Yeah.
I'd love to.
Great.
Oh, um.
Give me five minutes.
Okay.
I mean, you can wear that.
Five minutes!
All right.
Let's do this.
Oh, my dear, it's
Samantha Murphy!
- Irene!
- It's been years!
Yes, it has!
Oh, Sam, this is Charlie.
Hi!
Hi.
Pleasure to meet you.
Sam!
Nice to meet you.
And I still think you have your
grandmother's eyes.
Aw, thank you.
I've been told that before.
I have to say, Samantha, you
could have knocked me over
with a feather when Charlie
told me a TV station
from New York City
wanted to do a story on us?
And getting interviewed
by your fianc?
She said "why on earth would
anybody want to interview us"
when, you know,
it's not like we're famous
or anybody important.
Well, I think your story
is very important,
so let's tell it.
Are you ready?
Ready.
Okay.
Let's do it.
And what else I find fascinating
is that your anniversary
is on Christmas day.
Yes, it is.
Now how long have you two
been married?
One fabulous year.
One year.
Though, we did fall in love
almost 40 years ago,
when we met at the top of
the Empire State Building
while taking photos.
We just never had the good
sense to do anything about it.
Well, it was one thing
or another.
We kept telling ourselves
it wasn't the right time,
or we weren't ready, or maybe
we should wait a while longer.
Until finally, one day
we woke up,
it was like we'd lost track
of each other.
Before we knew it, I got
a job offer overseas,
and, uh, Irene wanted to move
back home to Cedar Ridge.
So, off I went.
And I came back here.
We lost touch.
And it took you almost 40 years
to find each other again?
Mm-hmm.
You know, we do regret
all the time we lost.
But, uh, we got married
right away and,
uh, bought this lovely home.
And we couldn't be happier.
Well, I'm happy
for the both of you.
Thanks, that was
that was really wonderful.
Thank you.
That was really,
really wonderful.
Thanks a lot.
All right.
So.
What'd you think?
I thought it was great.
I'm really proud of you.
Thank you.
Um, I a ap a couple things up,
so it might be a minute.
Okay, well, I think I'm gonna
walk home.
I just wanna get some work done
on the book.
You sure you don't want me
to give you a ride?
No, I'm fine.
I could, um, use the fresh air.
Okay.
Um I'll see you back
at the house.
Okay.
It was a great piece.
O come, all ye faithful
Joyful and triumphant
Bill, have you seen Annie?
Bill. Didn't you hear me?
Oh, sorry.
I said I was looking for Annie.
Yeah. She went into town to
pick something up for dinner.
Ah.
Is everything all right?
Just got an email
from the realtor.
Looks like we're good to go.
So, that's it, then?
I guess so.
Do you ever, uh, think back,
Claire, and
ask yourself what happened
between us?
Oh, Bill
I I I know.
Six years, I'm dragging some
old baggage out here.
But, I do.
I I think about it sometimes,
and for the life of me,
I cannot remember what happened.
I mean, what really happened.
We just drifted apart.
The girls moved out, you kept
busy with the force,
I wanted to advance
my law career.
It just happened.
It's no one's fault.
Not much of a reason, is it?
Not after building a life together
for all those years like we did.
No.
It's not.
We were happy, though.
For a long time,
weren't we, Claire?
Yes, Bill, we were very happy.
Spending Christmas here,
together, in this house?
I think that had a lot to do
with it.
I think your mother knew that.
Hmm.
Yeah, I think she did.
- Hey.
- Hey.
You finished up late.
I had to jump right
in to the edit,
and it took forever.
Oh, Irene wanted you to have
some scones.
Ohhh
That's so nice.
Yeah.
I'm actually starving.
Making any progress?
No.
Maybe you just need some rest.
It's like I can feel the words,
you know?
I can feel them on the tip
of my tongue,
but I just I can't
get them out.
Well, it's after midnight.
You know what that means?
I do not know what that means.
It is officially
Christmas Eve day.
And in my family, we have
a very old tradition.
Mm!
You each get a present.
Stay right there.
Hmmm
Madam!
I promise you it is not
a sweater.
Oh!
I know that nothing can
replace this house
and all the Christmas memories
that it holds,
but maybe there's just
enough Christmas spirit
in that little house
to help you find
the story you want to write.
Wow.
Thank you.
You're welcome.
I love it.
Wait here.
Where are you going?
Don't worry about it.
Now, it's your turn.
My turn?
Didn't you say you each
get a present?
I did, I did.
Yeah.
I promise it's not a sweater.
It's the night that we met.
Yeah.
We had that couple
from Ohio take the picture.
Yeah.
We were both stuck
in the city for work.
I walked down to Rockefeller
Centre,
and there you were,
sitting on a bench,
hot apple cider in hand,
staring up at that tree.
And you sat down next to me.
And do you remember
what you said?
Yeah, I do. How could I forget?
"Come here often?"
So bad!
So bad.
And I said "about once a year."
We stayed there for hours,
just talking and laughing.
I knew that night that one day,
I would marry you.
Uh I'll let you get
back to work.
Okay.
Good night.
Night.
You never did get
the hang of that.
All thumbs.
It is up, and then through.
There.
What?
You look beautiful.
Thank you.
Uh, I decided that I'm not going
to sell.
Really?
Yeah.
I love this house too much
to let it go.
Yeah, maybe it's starting
to show its age a little,
and it's got some work to do,
but I'm retired, so
I got plenty of time.
I think the girls would really
like it if I held onto it, so
And who knows, maybe we could,
you know, have some more
Christmases here together,
or come
I love this house too.
Yeah?
Mm-hmm.
Oh, well, maybe you want to, uh,
I don't know, think about,
uh, coming back for a
a visit sometime soon?
I might.
Um.
You know, I forgot my purse.
I'm going to go get that.
Gotta get that.
Oh, of course.
Yeah.
Okay.
Definitely have eaten
my fill of gingerbread cookies.
Samantha and I are having
a great time.
Yeah, I miss you too, dad.
Okay.
Yeah, will do.
All right.
Merry Christmas.
Hi.
Bye-bye.
Hey.
All set?
Yeah, I think so.
I was just talking to my folks.
They say hi.
You look nice.
I was, um, I was just thinking
the same thing about you.
Come on, everybody.
The Christmas train is leaving
the station.
Train's leaving the station.
Shall we?
We've hung the ornents
with care
It's Christmas time my dear
You can feel it in the air
We've put out cookies
for Saint Nick
The snow is falling now
And it's finally time
to tuck in the kids
It's time to celebrate
All the blessings
of this day
Singing songs and spreading
Christmas cheer
Kissing under
the mistletoe
Hello, everyone, and welcome.
Thank you for coming out
and celebrating
our annual Christmas dance!
As you all know, this is also
our annual fundraiser
for our library.
Your generosity helps to provide
the books and programs
that open our children
to a world of reading
and learning all year long.
Thank you again.
And, Merry Christmas!
Enough talk, let's dance!
Well, I would like to propose
a toast.
To all of us.
We have come together once again
as a family to celebrate
the joys of the season.
And to the wonderful woman
who brought us together.
And, best of all,
the joy of Christmas,
which we all hold so close
in our hearts.
Merry Christmas, everyone.
Merry Christmas.
O, Christmas Tree,
O, Christmas Tree
Oh!
Nana's favourite song.
Yup.
She's right.
Wow.
Well, if that is not a sign,
I don't know what is.
Come on, handsome.
We're gonna dance.
What do you say?
One dance for old times' sake?
If you play your cards right,
mister,
we just might make it two.
Hmm.
You two coming?
Could be a little practice
for your first dance
at your wedding.
Hmm?
Uh
Shall we?
We shall.
O Christmas Tree!
O Christmas Tree!
Much pleasure can
you give me.
In case you haven't noticed,
my parents can be
quite persistent.
That's okay.
Look at them.
They look happy.
Well, there's a lot of that
going around.
You've had a lot on your mind.
I know.
We love each other.
I know that you've been hurt
in the past.
And maybe it's time to get over
that fear here with me.
I will always be here for you.
Samantha.
I forgot to tell you.
I told your dad the idea
of a Christmas wedding,
and he agrees.
What about a Christmas wedding?
For Samantha and Simon,
of course.
A year-long engagement, that's
just the right amount of time.
Mom, we have tons of time
to talk about that much later.
No, I think your folks
are right.
I mean, a lot of couples
order flowers
at least a year in advance.
Mark?
Uh-nuh.
Have you guys thought
about where you might
wanna get married?
No, dad, we haven't.
Simon, you are awfully quiet.
What about you?
Where do you want
to get married?
Um You know, we haven't,
uh, we haven't really
talked about it yet.
We haven't had time.
Well, you know what they say.
No time like the present.
I can't do this anymore, Sam.
Okay, no.
I know. I know.
I'm going to go tell them
right now.
No.
It's not about that.
You're not ready for this.
And I, uh, I don't know what
to do to change that for you.
You've got to write the ending
to this story yourself.
And in the meantime, I
think it's best if I just go.
Simon
I'm sorry, Sam.
I'm sorry.
We can just talk when we're both
back in the city, okay?
Merry Christmas.
Samantha?
Is everything okay?
There is no engagement, mom.
There there's no wedding.
We've been pretending
this whole time.
And, I'm so sorry.
Why didn't you just say
something?
We didn't want
to ruin Christmas.
Honey.
He asked, I said yes,
and I panicked.
I couldn't stop thinking about
Paul breaking off
the engagement,
and what that did to me.
And I I couldn't stop
thinking about you and
When we were growing up,
you were the happiest.
You were the perfect couple.
And even with all of that,
you just
You couldn't make it work.
Oh, sweetheart.
Your father and I got a divorce
but that does not mean
that we regret a moment
that we spent together.
We have so many
wonderful memories.
We have two beautiful daughters.
Those were the happiest days
of our lives.
I don't know what the future
holds for us,
or even if we have a future,
but just imagine
what we would have missed out
on if we didn't even try.
Sweetheart.
Sometimes you just gotta
take a leap of faith.
If you love him the rest
will work itself out.
Oh, honey.
Thank you, mom.
Simon loves you very much.
Hmm?
I know.
Annie, Mark.
I need your keys.
Well, wait, what's going on?
Where where's Simon?
It's a really long story, but
I made a mistake,
and I have to fix it.
Go get him, Sam.
It's me.
I know I'm the last person
you want to talk to right now,
but I'm on my way to the house.
Please, wait for me!
Come on.
Come on, come on,
come on, come on
Simon?
Simon!
Simon!
Got your message.
You came back.
Of course I came back.
Look.
I know that there are going to
be moments when we disagree.
I know there are going to be
times that are tough.
I know the road isn't always
going to be perfect,
but I know that I love you.
And there is no one that I would
rather be married to than you.
I want to make sure
that you're not just
caught up in the emotion
of being at this house
with your family on Christmas.
Are you ready to get married
to me?
Would you ask me again?
I mean, unless unless
you've changed your mind.
Samantha, I love you.
I want to spend every Christmas
for the rest of my life
with you.
Will you marry me?
Yes.
Yes!
Come on, Sam.
We're opening presents!
Be right there!
Thank you.
And this one is for you, Sam.
Thank you, dad.
Oh, it's not from me.
Oh.
It's from Nana.
There's one for each
of you girls.
Bringing us all back
together again.
That was her real gift.
You go first, mom.
Okay.
Oh!
What did you get, mom?
I love it.
It's our last Christmas.
Oh!
I love it! It's beautiful!
Okay, my turn.
Just like when we were kids.
It's her old recipe book.
That's great.
Ooh, wow.
Wait, and she marked it
Oh!
Gingerbread men!
It's her gingerbread recipe!
I want that recipe.
Yes, of course.
Oh my gosh.
Okay, dad.
What did you get?
Open yours.
Okay.
She must have known that
I would never have the heart
to sell this place.
Aww.
Yeah.
Aww.
Well, what did you get Sam?
Let's see.
Yeah.
Oh!
It's the Christmas Star.
There it is.
Of course
It's perfect!
Oh, it's a card.
Let's see.
"Traditions are the stories
that families write together.
"Keep writing our story."
I think there's one tradition
left to do, of course.
Yes.
Can you help me?
Yes.
Thank you, Nana.
For everything.
And the list is complete.
Yep.
The list is complete.
So, what do you say, folks?
Same time next year?
I will bring the gingerbread.
I wouldn't miss it.
I'm in.
How would you guys feel
about a Christmas wedding?
Oh!
Yes!
Really?
What?
Yes!
Of course!
Merry Christmas.
Merry Christmas.
Merry Christmas my loves.
Merry Christmas.
Merry Christmas.
Merry Christmas.
Merry Christmas.
Merry Christmas.
Merry Christmas.
Merry Christmas.
Merry Christmas.
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Christmas at Grand Valley (2018)
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