Original subtitles

♪ I don't want nothing melancholy ♪

♪ Just a little eggnog and holly ♪

♪ on this holiday with you ♪

♪ So hurry up don't keep me waitin' ♪

♪ I'm in the mood for celebratin' this one holiday for two ♪

♪ As long as I'm with you I don't care what we do ♪

♪ A cozy fire, snowflakes, under the moon ♪

♪ grab some candy canes, we go ice fishin' ♪

♪ as long as we're together we can only win ♪

♪ when you're around it's Christmas the whole year through ♪

♪ Oh, I don't want nothing melancholy, ♪

♪ Just a little eggnog and holly ♪

♪ On this holiday for two ♪

To sum up your child's nightly sleep ritual,

think of it like landing a plane.

Twenty minutes before landing,

make an announcement: stow away all toys,

finish drinks...

do a final check to make sure the bed is

in the tucked-in position,

then glide in for a perfect landing.

Ah-choo!

It wrote, ah-choo.

[doorbell]

I hope you don't mind your editor dropping by

but I come bearing gifts.

Thanks, Cheryl.

I was just about to call you, actually.

Now I know we're not a newspaper

but parenting magazines have deadlines too.

So, I have to ask, how does the bedtime article go?

Well... I just finished and sent to your inbox.

Perfect!

On time as usual.

I could set my watch by you.

Now I brought another Christmas present,

an opportunity.

I know you're a huge fan

so I thought I'd give you the first shot.

How would you like to meet Doctor Thomas Baxter?

The childcare expert?

Yes.

You know he's my idol, right?

I live by his books.

And he's the reason for my wall schedule!

He's passing through town tomorrow

on the tail end of his book tour

and he's agreed to be interviewed for an article.

You're kidding.

Nuh-uh.

What's the topic?

Parenting over the holidays.

How would you like to be the one to write it?

Cheryl... are you serious?

That would be amazing.

Thing is, this could be a stretch, even for you.

He's available at 10:30 tomorrow morning.

And in order to get it to press,

I would need a final copy no later than 9:00 PM.

And don't forget, it's three days before Christmas.

Wow. Okay.

Tomorrow night, uh, that is soon.

I know.

But if it all goes well, it may just help convince the publisher

to make you a regular columnist.

Do you think you can do it?

Uh, okay, look.

If I move Elliot shopping to today

and then I use last year's Christmas playlist,

push the tree shopping a day.

Then with the sitter that frees up tomorrow morning just fine.

Your life looks like a regular advent calendar.

Hey, without this schedule the trains wouldn't only be late

but they would be off the rails, okay?

I have the perfect Christmas planned for Elliot.

There's activities, meals, my books are coming in.

I even have time to get Elliot his dream gift.

What is it?

It is the ultimate programmable remote control robot

that walks, dances and sings.

Mmmm.

Elliot's dad got him a robot every year

and he looks forward to it every Christmas, so...

I want to continue that tradition.

They're sold out everywhere, and online,

but your girl found one and has the toy store here

holding it for her.

Wow. Why am I not surprised?

[message alert]

It's Doctor Baxter.

Last chance to back out.

Do you think you can do the interview?

Absolutely.

And, if you don't mind, I have a toy robot to pick up.

[laughing]

Super mom!

Super mom.

Well you got them talking again, Ryan.

Great job.

Thanks Candace.

Wrap this up by Christmas and you may find the keys

to a corner office in your stocking.

I want everyone heads down on this deal until it closes.

So, work together to revise that term sheet

to find something that they both can agree on.

Will do.

Absolutely.

And on't forget, partners' holiday party is tomorrow

and I want to show off my two rising stars.

I'll be there with my fiancée, Linda.

Great!

Ryan?

I'll be there too.

That's awkward.

I got it at a toy store across town.

You're kidding!

I called, like, 80 stores.

I called the 81st!

Oh, that unicorn is Jasmine's wish come true.

Emily, thank you.

It's on hold but the store sounded like a mad house.

Okay, I'm going to go now.

I'm picking up Jasmine at her mom's tomorrow

and I'm not letting that unicorn slip through my fingers.

Text me the address.

Oh, skipping out early, Ryan?

Everything okay?

Back in an hour, Terrance.

Thanks for the concern.

Sure.

Hey, I was wondering, maybe we...

Could talk later.

Good.

[Christmas tune playing] ♪

[Christmas tune playing] ♪

Excuse me.

Hi, pardon me, can...

Um, excuse me, uh, I'm here to pick up a unicorn.

Uh, nothing Terrance, I just had the radio on.

Uh, put Emily back on.

Uh, yeah.

Emily, can you read that last paragraph

again to me please?

Merry Christmas. Who's next?

-I am. -I am.

Excuse me, sorry.

These poor clerks are super busy

and I believe she was helping me first.

No, she definitely made eye contact with me as she asked.

Made eye contact over her shoulder?

Hey, you're um, actually holding a robot for me.

I called last week.

I'm here to pick up a rainbow light-up unicorn

with the voice recording feature.

It's on hold for me as well.

I'm sorry, I'm in a bit of a rush.

No problem.

I'm sure that, um, Patty can help you as soon as we're done.

I'm sorry but this is urgent.

A real unicorn's easier to find.

Trust me, if you think that's rare,

my son says that this robot is the sole survivor

of the Battle of Zeffron Five.

Also, you know, I mean, unicorns... they're, like,

everywhere in this store.

Uh... not rainbow paddock unicorns

that light up in periwinkle

and let you record your voice in it.

Trust me, I've been looking for weeks.

Don't worry folks, you're both here to pick something up

and I can help both of you if I could just get your names.

-Hewitt. -Cooper.

Okay.

I'll check in the back.

And each purchase qualifies for a free stocking stuffer

if you want to grab one off the back wall.

I'll be right back.

Great, thank you.

Patty... you are doing a super job.

Uh, Cooper first... and maybe you could show me how to record

a message to my daughter.

Of course.

Adorbs!

Uh...

Hey...

Excuse me, I think this is mine.

Actually, I reached for it first.

I really have to have this.

You can pick something else.

I like this one.

Guess great minds think alike.

This great mind's not letting go.

Be that as it may, possession's nine tenths of the law.

Can I help?

Oh... the music box.

Have you seen it play?

You just place an Oreo in the centre like a record...

and then it plays a different song after each bite.

You can even program songs into it.

Wow.

That is incredible.

It reminds me of playing music with my son.

We put cookies out for Santa.

He would love this.

I'll take it.

Oh, I'm sorry, it's for display purposes only.

But you can buy one online.

I'm happy to pay for it now, my daughter would love this.

Maybe the owner will make an exception?

You heard Patty, she said it's for display purposes only.

Are you sure there's no possibility I can't buy it?

Terribly sorry but there's plenty of Santa hats.

Your gifts are at the register.

Merry Christmas.

We meet again.

Did you just cut in line?

Technically you're not in line if you're,

like, five feet from the counter and on your phone.

No, hang on a sec.

Look, it's Christmas, okay?

Have a heart.

I have, like, a million things to do.

I get it.

Same here.

Looks like you've got a lot of distractions.

Yeah, just tell Candace I'll be back soon.

I'm almost done with a revised term sheet for the merger.

The only sticking point's the factory in Eugene.

Ooh! Oh!

Sorry! Monkey avalanche.

Emily, I'll be back in the office in ten.

Okay, Okay. Thanks.

-Aah. -Aah. Thanks.

Excuse me.

Oops! Excuse me.

Pardon me.

Merry Christmas!

Have a good day.

Please, after you.

Thank you.

Unbelievable.

Unbelievable.

Hey.

Mom!

How was rehearsal, buddy?

Fine.

Uh-oh.

The last time I heard a "fine" like that was

when I tried to make you kale roll-ups.

The Christmas concert is tomorrow.

I know.

I am so excited because you ring bells

better than any seven-year-old I know.

It's easy, I just hold the bells and my hands shake.

Elliot, you are going to be great.

Mom... do I have to go to the concert?

Why?

Are you feeling sick?

Mom, why do you always have to carry that everywhere?

Because you have the Eagle Scout of moms, kiddo.

I'm not sick.

Okay.

What is it then?

I kept messing up my part today.

The teacher kept correcting me in front of everyone.

Oh, I see.

Everyone makes mistakes now and then, okay?

What if I make mistakes at the concert?

It'll be in front of a whole bunch of people.

How about this.

Imagine you're playing bells for an audience of snowmen.

And if you get nervous,

just think of a heatwave coming in

and making them melt and get mushy and slushy.

There's my smile.

I love you, kiddo.

Let's go home.

What's in the bags?

I am not saying anything, Elliot.

Anything for me?

You are going to have to wait until Christmas morning.

Mom... I really, really, really hope it's the robot

and I've already figured out what to name him.

Orson!

One of Dad's favourite movies was by a guy named Orson.

That's a perfect name for a robot.

So, does that mean I'm getting one?

Ooh, you are sly.

I am not saying another word.

Oh no... your sitter just cancelled,

said she twisted her ankle.

Is she okay?

Well, considering she just posted pictures

from a holiday party,

she's okay until the next time I see her.

All right, well that blue card was the cornerstone

of my day tomorrow.

Let's see... I can still do the interview.

It's going to be tight.

That just means I have to wrap presents tonight.

So dinner, then bath, then bed.

Let's go.

Okay.

Orson, huh?

Yup.

I'm digging that name.

And now for the grand finale.

What?

What?

Jasmine, I love you bigger than the sky.

Mom, I can't sleep.

I keep thinking about the concert.

Oh Elliot.

Why are you holding a rainbow unicorn?

Uh... this unicorn?

Yeah.

That one.

You know, that is a super question.

Wait. Shouldn't you be in bed?

Mom... wait.

Who's that for?

Mom. What's going on?

Okay, okay, okay.

Ugh!

Okay, there's been a mix up.

Look, I really wanted to surprise you

But... I found your robot.

You found it?

But I think I switched gifts with someone at the store.

You lost it.

I'm sorry honey, okay.

I'll get it back.

All right?

And I think I know who has him.

You doing okay, Elliot?

What if Orson's gone for good?

What if he's never coming home?

He's coming home, okay?

That's a promise.

When we find Orson,

then I'll know it's actually Christmas.

Don't worry, I'll find him tomorrow.

Get some sleep.

Good night, buddy. I love you.

Good night.

I... I knew that guy was trouble the moment I saw him.

[Cheryl] So what are you going to do?

Hunt him down!

You're an A-supporter Abby,

but even you need something to go on.

I heard part of his phone call at the store.

His name was Carter.

Or Capra.

He's clearly a lawyer and he has a boss named Candace

and there was something about a factory in Eugene.

Okay, well good luck.

But Abby, remember Professor Baxter flies out

on the red eye tomorrow, so...

I won't let you down.

Okay.

Well, Mister nine-tenths of the law,

I'm going to find you if it takes me all night.

Mom.

Were you up all night?

Don't you worry about that.

You just need to get ready to be happy.

How come?

I found Orson!

Really?

Yes.

I did a little detective work

and I searched some names of partners at various law firms

around the city and voila!

What?

Sorry buddy, too much coffee.

I know where to find Orson.

I was just waiting for things to open

so just watch as your mom solves this right now.

I'm going to call Sloane and Hendrix law firm

and we are going to get this taken care of in three... two... one.

Sloane and Hendrix, attorneys at law.

How may I direct your call?

Yes, hi.

I'm looking for a lawyer who's working on a merger.

The attorney's name, please?

I don't actually know his name but I was...

I do need a name.

Carter?

No.

Capra maybe?

No.

Okay, well how about a description?

He's tall, well dressed, about 30.

There are more than 50 lawyers on staff here.

And... self -assured, a little full of himself.

You just described a lot of people here.

Excuse me, I have another call.

-But I-- -Merry Christmas.

Rude!

No Orson?

Not yet, honey.

Just finish your pancakes, okay?

Sloane and Hendrix, attorneys at law.

How may I direct your call?

Hi. Yeah.

I just called looking for a lawyer.

I forgot to mention that he's working on a merger

with a factory in Eugene.

Did you figure out his name yet?

Not yet but I...

Okay.

Hello?

Hello?

Did they hang up again, Mommy?

Yup.

But we're going to get this taken care of right now, okay?

Finish your breakfast. I'm going to get ready.

Okay.

So, I've revised the term sheet for a Christmas win-win.

The Eugene factory stays open but you hold off on the expansion

to free up funds for a buy-back

so the stock price rises.

Merry Christmas. May I help you?

Now, if you all can bring your attention to section 4 A...

Ooh, there he is.

Come on, Elliot.

Uh, Mr. Cooper's in a meeting.

Yes, with us.

Trust me, he'll be happy we're here.

[whispers] That's him.

So, it seems like we're closing in

on the terms of the revised deal.

And the package you have before you represents,

in my mind, the best deal for you both.

[gasp]

He's ignoring me.

Point number one... yes, if you all can see right...

Hi!

Hi!

Oh, my! Her? Seriously?

Hello?

Ryan there is a...

Okay, so... um, does that make sense to everyone?

Does anybody need more coffee or treats to go over it?

We will get whatever you desire.

Why are you ignoring us?

Is he walking away?

Hi.

So, if anyone has any questions

on the documents or anything else, um... you know...

Ryan, is everything okay?

Hmm?

Is everything okay?

Oh...

Hi. Yes.

Um... nothing.

It's just a toy donation I'm making for a Christmas drive.

Could you all excuse me for just a moment? Um...

Mm-hmm.

Okay. Shall we?

Right here.

What are you doing here?

You have my robot?

Have you been drinking?

Look, as far as I can tell,

somehow in the hubbub of the store

we switched bags while you were on the phone.

Does this refresh your memory?

Jasmine, I love you bigger than the sky.

Jasmine, I love you bigger than the sky.

Believe me now?

Can we talk about this in private?

...I love you bigger than the sky.

Look, I have a reputation to keep.

Tough guy lawyer not pushover Dad?

Your secret's safe with me.

Now if we can just get our robot,

you can have fun with your unicorn.

Unicorn?

Oh no...

For me?

Daddy!

You found her?

Why didn't you tell me you brought your daughter to work?

Because I didn't think you were going to spill the beans.

Yup!

It's for you.

Merry Christmas.

Oh!

Oh Daddy, I love it!

Oh, thanks so much for bringing it by

and ruining my Christmas surprise.

I'm so sorry. Okay?

But on the upside, the bigger surprise would've been

her opening the wrong gift on Christmas morning, right?

So, we'll just get our robot and we will be on our way.

There's one small problem.

I don't have it.

You lost Orson?

Sorry sport.

But we can get it back, it's nearby.

Nearby?

What's nearby?

Look, I messengered the gift bag over to my ex-wife's, okay?

Why?

Your daughter's right there.

Yeah but she spends Christmas morning at her mom's

and I wanted it to be a surprise.

Though that ship has sailed.

My son has been looking forward to this all year.

Fine.

Then I'll call my ex-wife and you can go pick it up.

She's just across town.

No, no, no.

You helped me get into this mess,

you're going to help fix it.

I'm negotiating a multi-million-dollar deal.

I don't have time for a crosstown mission

to track down some robot.

But he's not some robot, his name is Orson.

And he can walk, he can sing and he can dance.

And he's the biggest, baddest, coolest robot ever!

And it isn't going to be Christmas without him.

I know buddy, it's okay.

One way or another we will get Orson back.

Daddy... it's Christmas.

Couldn't you help?

You bet, sweetheart.

I will.

Ryan.

I'm sorry but I have to step out.

If you could just confirm the terms

I've proposed in the document you have,

I will have the contract written up by the end of the day.

Bye now.

By the end of the day.

As we were shown...

Ooh, bubba we've got to zip up the coat.

Brr, it's cold out here.

I'm fine mom.

Okay, well trust me, a Christmas cold is not fine.

By all means, take your time.

It isn't like that eight-figure merger is important.

It's okay, I parked right here.

Uh... Wait... where's my car?

I parked right here.

Right, buddy? Right here?

Yeah, right here.

Gee, right by the 15-minute parking only sign?

I can't imagine where your car might've gone.

This day just gets better and better.

Well, what do you suggest?

What, did you need a car big enough to fit your ego?

Very funny.

I'm going to call her Moxie.

Moxie, meet Elliot.

Moxie, that's a funny name.

Not like Orson.

I blame this mix up on tissue paper.

Why do they have to wrap things in a ton of that anyway?

'Cause it gives it a festive touch.

Let's agree to disagree.

Look, obviously we don't see eye to eye, okay.

Ok, I get that.

But we are two adults here with our kids' best interests

at heart so let's just try to make the most of it.

I couldn't agree more.

But for the record,

we're in this mess because of you.

At the store,

you were distracted on of your phone.

Better momentarily distracted than over-parenting I'd say.

Excuse me, now we're doling out parenting advice.

I'm just saying you might try easing off the reigns

now and then.

Maybe you should have reigns.

Okay, because of this my day is falling like dominos.

I'm never going to make my 10:30 interview and I'm supposed

to pick my parents up at the airport by noon.

Ever heard of Uber or maybe a cab?

If my parents are flying hundreds of miles to visit,

of course I'm going to pick them up in person.

What are they doing back there?

Oh, looking at videos on Jasmine's phone.

You let your seven-year-old have her own cell phone?

Of course not.

She's eight.

Do you have any policies when it comes to screen time?

Jasmine lets me watch an hour of baseball before we play poker.

Are you taking notes?

I just got an inspiration for a new article.

Call it...

A case study in distracted parenting.

Sound good?

I owe you, Cheryl.

Thank you so much.

Just see if the professor can maybe do the interview

this afternoon.

Okay, thanks.

Yeah.

Oh my goodness, this is a beautiful property.

It's okay, I suppose.

If a house has two chimneys,

how does Santa know which one to go down?

He asks the housekeeper.

Anyway, we're here.

Wow!

This is a gorgeous house.

This is just like Santa's mansion!

Yeah, this is Santa's sleigh.

Mommy always likes to have the most elegant house on the block.

And Kenneth set up all the decorations.

Kenneth?

Mommy's new husband.

Kenneth can practically build anything.

Yeah, but can he build a case that'll stand up in court?

Because I can.

What Daddy?

Nothing, sweetheart.

[doorbell]

Hi Mommy!

Hi Pumpkin.

Come on, let me show you my rooms!

Rooms... be good.

Hello Brooke.

Ryan, what is this emergency you texted about?

I am still centred from couple's yoga

so please keep that in mind.

Since when do you do yoga?

Since Kenneth opened my world to it.

Our instructor just left.

Excuse me, hi.

You must be Lexie.

It is so nice to finally meet you.

No, sorry.

Wrong gal.

Oh, this is not Lexie?

This is not my girlfriend.

Thank goodness for that.

I'm Abby.

And I'm really sorry for this inconvenience

but we have a Christmas crisis on our hands.

You have my robot.

I'm sorry, I don't understand.

You want to take this one, big fella?

Sure.

Ryan, buddy!

Great to see you.

Hey.

Hey, Kenneth.

This is Abby.

Great to meet you, Abby.

Yeah, hi.

I've seen you somewhere before.

Oh!

Um, the, uh, uh... the calendar.

You were on the hottest doctors of Seattle!

Yes.

And thanks to you it was March,

like, three months out of the year in my house last year.

Guilty as charged.

Uh, it was for a good cause.

Raising money for the new hospital wing.

Yeah, can we please get the package I sent over?

Oh, now you're in a hurry.

Come on in.

I'm still a little confused.

Oh, sorry to barge in like this but as soon we get

the toy robot we're gone.

No worries Ryan, it's fine.

But, uh, you look stressed. Ooh.

You can really bury stress in your trapezius.

Yeah, Kenneth, shouldn't you be at the hospital right now?

Nope.

I had an early triple bypass and popped back to finish building

Jasmine's Birchwood playhouse out back.

Sorry, we're in a bit of a rush.

I've got an interview that I'm missing

and family flying into town.

So, if we could just get the toy that he sent over

we'll be on our way.

Our housekeep just wrapped all of Jasmine's gifts.

We don't believe in doing Christmas small.

Whoa!

Look at all these!

I know, right?

Well this is simple enough.

We just unwrap the ones that are for Jasmine.

Oh, they're all Jasmine's.

Then we should start now.

Excuse me, you are not going to start tearing open every gift.

Then what do you suggest?

Wait...

So you're a doctor, huh?

Negative.

Are you sure?

Next patient.

You're going to listen for like a whirling sound

that's Orson's internal gyroscope.

So what happened to Lexie, the amazing gal-pal?

Nothing happened.

Lexie is terrific.

We're great.

Really?

And Abby?

She's just here for the robot.

[robot noises]

Shh!

What is it? What is it?

I...

[whirring sounds]

I hear a motor.

Orson!

Oh, thank goodness!

We got him.

Mommy, you found him!

And he's the best thing ever! He's so cool!

You have so much fun with your Daddy, okay sweetie?

And remember...

I'll have her back Christmas Eve.

Great.

Because the day after Christmas we're heading to Aspen

for a couple of days of skiing.

Oh, fantastic.

Oh... almost forgot.

I've got an early present for someone.

So you can count down the minutes until Christmas morning.

Whoa!

Thanks Kenneth!

That's quite a gift.

Yeah.

You know there's more to Christmas than big gifts.

And you remember, have her back Christmas Eve before bedtime.

She'll be here.

Thank you, guys. Merry Christmas.

Merry Christmas.

Merry Christmas.

Love you!

Have fun!

Bye.

Okay, now I understand your need for a big car.

And thank you Doctor Freud.

Your ex-wife really hit the husband lottery.

He's a handsome, successful, British cardiologist?

Who also happens to be a construction genius?

Want to know the worst part?

He's actually nice.

Well, you must be nicer than you look as well.

Letting Brooke have Jasmine Christmas day?

I haven't exactly finished my new condo yet

so it's not Christmas worthy.

How long have you lived there?

Two years.

[robotic sounds]

Well at least all the Christmas gifts got back to

where they belong.

Good job back there, actually.

Oh, a crisis I can handle.

It's real life that's got me stumped.

I wish I could be just like you and kind of skate through life.

Is that what you think?

Never mind.

You know, I've got to find out what impound lot has my car

and you can drop us off and we can both be on our merry way.

[busy signal]

Still busy.

Perfect.

I have to deliver an article for an interview I've missed

and my parents have been cooling their heels

at the airport for 20 minutes.

Well this is terrible timing for me too.

It's my special day with my daughter

and I still have a contract to finish.

Look... as much as I hate to ask...

I think there's a way we can help each other.

How's that?

You can give me a ride to the airport

and pick up my parents with me.

And then maybe I can watch Jasmine

while you write up your contract?

Do I look like a shuttle service?

No.

But you do look desperate.

I've struck some unorthodox deals before

but this feels more like a plea bargain.

Ok, fine.

Great!

My parents are probably wondering where I am

and we can grab lunch.

I'm sure someone's hungry.

Oh, you bet I am.

I meant the kids.

Hey.

Mom, Dad!

Hi!

We thought you'd forgotten us.

I know, I'm sorry.

There was a hitch in my schedule this morning.

Hey kiddo.

Look at you!

So glad you're here.

Come on.

Honey, could you get your driver to take our bags?

Driver, please.

Yes ma'am.

Happy to help.

Thank you, sir.

Oh, Elliot!

Oh, good to see you.

Grandpa missed you.

Elliot!

-Grandma. -Oh, hi.

It's so good to see you.

Abby?

When did you get a second kid?

Very funny.

That's Jasmine and she belongs to him.

Oh.

Welcome aboard!

Thank you, you too.

Ooh, driver... could you turn up the heat please?

Mom, he's not the driver...

Yes ma'am.

Heat turned up.

Thank you.

Hey. Who here likes Christmas music?

Driver, silence please.

Hey, don't go Grinch on me.

How about "The Twelve Days of Christmas"?

Okay!

Sounds good.

Yes!

That's good.

♪ On the first day of Christmas, ♪

♪ my true love gave to me... ♪

♪ a partridge in a pear tree. ♪

♪ On the second day of Christmas, ♪

♪ my true love gave to me... ♪

♪ two turtle doves

♪ and a partridge in a pear tree. ♪

Okay, we're all settled in, honey.

What can I do to help?

Uh, you can make the salad.

I already washed the lettuce.

I made the dressing and I chopped some veggies.

Oh, great.

Hey kids.

Wow.

You just whipped all this all up?

Every battle is won before it's fought.

Sun Tzu.

Gesundheit.

Oh, sorry.

We don't do screen time at lunch.

It's a bad example for the kids.

And what's going on here?

Planning the invasion of Normandy?

Oh, that's our monthly calendar.

Red is for Elliot, yellow are my appointments

and green are our activities.

I'm sensing you like order.

Well, modern parenting theory says that children experience

comfort with routine and structure.

Excuse me.

Modern parenting theory?

The real world has mix ups and muddy shoes.

Not mine.

Except our little mix up yesterday, remember?

Everyone has their own approach, I suppose.

Excuse me.

So what's yours?

Happy chaos.

That's not an approach, that's like the lack of an approach.

Daddy, daddy, look! Moxie's flying!

Oh, that's great, honey.

Classic distracted parenting.

It's no wonder Jasmine's always trying to get your attention.

Well since you're such a keen student of human nature,

maybe I could share some observations

I've made about you.

Please, enlighten me.

Well clearly you're a great mom

but you're totally over-parenting Elliot.

And that might be one reason he's a little

on the fearful side.

All right, listen Larry Poppins.

I think I can raise my kid.

Lunch is ready!

Yay! Sandwiches.

All right, kids.

Let's go.

Mmm, lovely.

Hey, Elliot.

Load up.

You're going to need some energy

for that Christmas concert later, right buddy?

I guess so.

Something wrong?

He's a little nervous about the Christmas concert, okay?

Look, it's at the town centre, it's a lot of people.

He just needs to keep his mind off things.

Hey kids.

Who wants to put up some reindeer on the roof?

The roof, really?

Kidding!

Aww.

Oh, your driver friend is so cute.

He's not my friend, Mom.

Trust me.

Oh, right.

Wise decision not to get caught up in that friend zone thing.

What?

I watch cable.

And look how good he is with the kids.

That's because he is one.

You know, I just think that is so adorable.

The lengths he went to get his daughter's unicorn

back from you.

Is that what he told you?

Huh.

Because I brought him Moxie back on a silver platter.

Whatever.

I just think he's a real catch.

You know what I mean?

It's only been three years, Mom.

I know, I'm sorry.

And look, if he's such a committed parent,

why does he treat his cell phone like a first-born child?

He's pushing them too high and now he's taking a phone call?

Unbelievable.

What's that, a shed?

It's my treehouse.

Let's go.

I thought treehouses were supposed to be up in the tree.

Well, mom said that this way is safer and that mine's unique

because you can see the roots really good.

I think your mom did a number on you.

[phone buzzing]

Dad says he's sorry but he'll be off his call soon.

I can't believe your dad lets you have your own cell phone.

It's mostly so I have someone to call

when he forgets to pack my lunch.

What do you do?

My mom's never forgotten my lunch, like ever.

But one time she did forget to leave the chopsticks with my sushi.

Your mom makes you sushi for lunch?

Doesn't everyone's?

All good.

Bye.

Hard at work watching the kids, I see.

Shouldn't' you be focusing on your situation?

I can't.

My editor still can't reschedule my interview.

You know... since we're covering for each other,

maybe I could interview you?

Seriously?

A case study in distracted parenting?

Why not?

I mean, I've got the world's authority.

It would be a crime not to share that with everyone.

Look!

My dad's laughing.

They must be really getting along.

You think?

They seem to argue an awful a lot.

So did Shrek and Fiona and look how well that turned out.

So... my mom and your dad...

Think about it.

If we get them together,

it'll be like when two superheroes team up.

Double the super powers.

But it might make the universe explode though.

True.

But I say we do it.

Maybe they just have to do something fun together.

Okay, how about this one.

Single parents at the holidays.

Fine.

You can interview me.

If you promise to look after the kids for an hour

so I can catch up on some work.

Is everything with you a negotiation?

Is everything with you a teachable moment?

No.

Hi.

Hello

Can we please go see Santa now?

Um...

You promised you'd bring me at lunch.

Can we go too, mom?

Pease?

Well... I guess we can.

You know what, I can interview you there.

Okay.

Yes!

I bet you they kiss by Christmas.

Or kill each other.

Sweetie, go ahead.

Go on, go do your interview.

We've got this.

Yeah, we're bonding.

Okay.

So... as a single working dad over Christmas vacation,

how does a day with you and Jasmine typically start?

I'm imagining pop tarts.

Actually, every morning we go out

and try a different restaurant for breakfast.

No domestic routine.

It's just that consistency, they say,

is good for kids' development.

So...

And changing things up keeps Christmas exciting.

Especially now that I don't see Jasmine so much.

What do you mean?

Last year we saw each other all the time while Brooke

and Kenneth were busy renovating Castle Perfecto.

But ever since they finished,

I only have Jasmine every other weekend.

So I really try to up the ante.

With what?

I mean, Kenneth's always showering Jasmine with gifts and trips,

I just can't compete.

But I have to try.

I don't get it.

Why even bother competing at all?

Because I'm slowly being replaced by Mister Amazing.

I'm sorry, Doctor Amazing.

And with that new watch on her wrist,

she has a reminder of Kenneth 24/7.

Okay, well you're not being replaced.

That little girl of yours has not put down Moxie

since you gave it to her.

Oh, maybe you're right.

I've been chasing down that unicorn for weeks.

It's the one thing I knew Jasmine really wanted.

And a way for her to hear my voice,

even when we can't be together.

You know, that's surprisingly sweet.

Surprisingly, huh?

Well yeah, coming from you.

Anyway, what's your excuse?

You were mama grizzly at the toy store.

I have to be.

I have a sleigh piled with Christmas traditions

and I'm the only reindeer pulling it.

Elliot's dad isn't any help?

Actually, Elliot's dad passed away three years ago.

I'm really sorry.

It's really tough at Christmas.

But I've tried to keep up with all of our traditions.

And robots... that was Elliot's thing with his dad.

Then I'm extra glad he got Orson back.

I'm sorry I ruined your Christmas surprise.

But think about it this way,

if you didn't see Jasmine open Moxie,

then you wouldn't have been able to see

that smile on her face.

And for my part, if I was a tiny bit rude at the office and toy store...

Apology accepted.

I wasn't exactly apologizing.

Admitting you were rude is the first step, so...

Can we go skate?

Uh... I don't know.

Please, mom!

Um... Look at this face.

How do I say no?

Okay, maybe just for a little bit.

Yes!

Let's go put our skates on.

Yeah!

You want to join them?

Hey kids, hot chocolate.

Come!

Come on!

Yummy!

Thank you.

Thank you.

Elliot.

Whoa, slow down!

-Whoa! -Oh!

So romantic.

Okay, now you're like...

literally skating circles around me.

Ah...

I have a confession to make.

Okay.

Usually when it comes to parenting,

I feel totally out of my depth.

Well... I mean I think you do a pretty good job.

Look at the evidence.

You've raised an awesome kid.

-Oh. -Uh.

Yeah.

We've been had.

Smart!

When I was making my schedule this morning,

I didn't think couple's skating would be included.

You know, sometimes mixing things up doesn't hurt.

I used to skate all the time at Christmas when I was a kid.

Life got busy.

Believe me, I get it.

Smile for a picture!

[laughing]

[message alert]

Sorry.

The professor can only do the interview at 3:00.

Elliot's concert is at 3:30 and I told him I'd go early

so I could give him some support.

Aren't your parents going to be there?

Yes.

But he could use all the help he can get.

Look, I don't suppose that you and Jasmine

would want to tag along?

I mean Elliot's really taken a shine to you.

It would give him a boost.

Plus, you have something that no one else has...

a car.

You could give him a ride?

I'd love to but...

I promise I'll give you time later to work on your contract.

You sure you never went to law school at some point?

You'd be relentless in the cross examinations.

So, is that a yes?

The thing is... I need your help too.

Okay.

[laughs] Whoo!

What is it?

My firm is having a cocktail party today at 5:00

and I promised I'd make an appearance.

Maybe you could come along?

Are you serious?

I hate showing up stag to these things.

What about your girlfriend?

The truth is Lexie and I broke up over a month ago.

Oh, sorry.

No, it's okay.

It was too many things.

My job and Jasmine and everything else.

It was too many spinning plates anyway.

Just out of curiosity, did your girlfriend break up with you

because you called her a spinning plate?

Look, do we have a deal or not?

Okay, yes.

I'll do it.

But can we just get off this ice?

I knew it, I knew I was going to fall at some point.

Thank you so much for meeting with me.

I hope you don't mind me recording this.

No, not at all.

That way I don't have to repeat myself

and you don't have to take notes.

It's very efficient.

Well, I have to confess, I am a fan.

I have your colour coded chart on my kitchen wall.

Oh, you read my first book?

Read it?

I live by it.

And I'm sorry about missing our first interview.

I pride myself in punctuality.

Just had an unforeseen situation arise.

Which is why, during the holidays especially, remember...

first book, page 17, parents have to expect the unexpected.

Right?

And have contingencies in place and then nothing is left to...

Chance.

[both] Chance.

There you go.

Of course.

Oh, this is going to be good.

Thank you.

Merry Christmas.

Hey Elliot, have a bite.

Got to keep your strength up.

No, no, no.

Not just before he performs.

Well he's got a show.

Hey Elliot.

Elliot.

Isn't that your teacher?

Shouldn't you go get ready for your show?

I guess.

♪ Don we now our gay apparel ♪

♪ Fa, la, la, la, la, la, la, la ♪

Sure is nice of you to help out.

Abby's got her hands full.

Well she does do a good job juggling everything with that calendar.

Oh, you mean her schedule and such.

Well, that's a more recent occurrence.

So she didn't alphabetize all her teddy bears when she was little?

Actually, um, after she lost Elliot's dad,

that schedule is how she got through the day.

Oh.

Anyway... she's a wonder.

How she keeps going single-handedly.

Yeah, you're right about that.

Speaking of keeping things going,

I'd better get some work done myself.

♪ Fa, la, la, la, la, la, la, la ♪

[applause]

Welcome to the annual Christmas festival and concert.

All right, so remember everybody,

ring your bells when I cue you.

All right?

You guys are going to be great.

Big smiles.

Oh, Elliot?

Are you with us?

Just stay here a sec.

Excuse me, I'm with Elliot.

Oh. Sure.

Hey, Elliot.

What's going on?

Why don't you just do your work?

Because some things are even more important.

Like talking to you.

So...

what's the harm with ringing a few Christmas bells?

I just don't want to.

Can we call my mom?

We can try.

But maybe you can talk to me about it.

Hmm.

So... a little nervous around a crowd, huh?

Happens to the best of us.

Even me.

It's true.

When I was a kid, I hated going up in front of an audience.

Spelling bees, plays... even when I became a grown up.

The first time I had to address a courtroom I froze.

I looked a lot like Frosty the Snowman.

But take your pal Orson here.

Looking at him, who would know he could talk,

dance and play music?

He's what we call a triple threat.

He doesn't care who's watching.

He just wants to have fun and so should you.

So, let's be like Orson and show the world what we got.

Huh?

That's easy for you to say.

You'll be safe in the audience.

Well...

You've got a good point there.

Hmm.

One sec.

I think the third book will be called Surviving Christmas.

Yeah.

I think stability and predictability are cornerstones

of good parenting, especially at Christmas.

Hmm.

I'm sorry, am I boring you?

I'm sorry.

Would it be okay if I made a quick phone call?

It's just my son's in a Christmas concert

and I wanted to...

No, Miss Hewitt, you've already stood me up once.

We rescheduled and you were late today.

So... could we please focus?

Of course.

My day has just been a world-class disaster.

Well, all disasters are avoidable.

With proper planning, I know.

But in the real world, just to play devil's advocate here,

isn't that setting an impossible standard?

I mean, is there ever a situation

where it may be okay just to give into happy chaos?

I should think not.

Children benefit from structure, consistency, accountability.

And you were able to provide that to your own kids?

My hat is off to you.

You made it all work.

Well, I'd say with a little help

from my wife and several caregivers...

and staff.

But I conducted the symphony myself.

Oh... I see. I'm sorry.

You never mentioned that help in all your books.

Well I'm a busy man.

The thing is, sir... some of us don't have a symphony,

we just have to play solo.

You know?

We don't all have caregivers and a spouse at home or staff.

We have to be the sous chef so that our kids eat their broccoli

and the teacher so that we finish their homework on time.

And then the chauffeur to make sure that they get to their

lessons while running around trying to keep the music perfect

and not missing a beat.

Because maybe sometimes perfection just isn't possible.

And it's not fair to expect it or strive for it.

Well I was just looking to be helpful.

Christmas without a plan is a recipe for disaster.

Then I guess I'm serving up a dozen fresh-burned disasters

this Christmas.

Where are you going?

We're not done.

I'm sorry.

My son has a concert today and it might not be a symphony

but it is to me.

Merry Christmas.

Hi!

I made it.

I made it!

Just in time. Atta girl.

[bells ringing to "Jolly Old St. Nicholas"]

[applause]

It's a Christmas miracle!

Hey, where's Ryan?

Giving a little moral support.

[bells ringing to "Jolly Old St. Nicholas"]

[Laughing]

[bells ringing to "Jolly Old St. Nicholas"]

[laughing]

[bells ringing to "Jolly Old St. Nicholas"]

Good job, Elliot.

I am so proud of you, bubba.

You were fantastic.

I'm a triple threat, just like Orson.

Yes.

Oh, look at this tree, it's gorgeous!

Abby, I don't think you have your tree yet, do you?

Not yet, mom.

I knew you could do it.

You did great!

The human tree.

Thank you by the way.

I guess it goes to show that some dads will do anything

to keep their kids happy.

Huh?

Last year I lost my doll in the air and space museum.

So Daddy climbed up into the lunar capsule and got it for me.

We got in trouble with the security guard

and we can't go there anymore but he got my doll!

Why am I not surprised?

How'd your interview go with the professor?

Oh, it was a train wreck.

I just can't believe I based so many parenting techniques

off that guy.

You know in all of his preaching about perfect parenting,

he forgot to mention that he outsources all of his help

with his poor wife and his caregivers.

What about the article?

I can fix it.

I've got some of his quotes and I have a few hours.

Honey, why don't we get your tree today?

Can we stop and buy one on the way home?

Well, I was going to go tomorrow per the schedule.

But maybe I can bend some rules.

Really?

Are you serious?

Is Rudolph's nose red?

Yes.

Then let's go get the perfect Christmas tree.

Yes!

Yay.

Kids!

What's the rush?

Hey!

They're trees, they're not going to go anyplace.

Oh, hurry up Chester.

If they reach the Douglas Firs we won't find them

until the spring.

Okay, so what I usually do is I check out every tree

and I rate them according to shape, scent and freshness.

Hey, if Jasmine's with her mom for Christmas day,

what are you going to do?

Well I usually go for a long jog...

the streets are empty, crisp air, no traffic.

What?

It's great, really.

Uh huh...

Hey, can I ask you something?

Sure.

What happened between you and Brooke anyway?

I used to work at a small firm doing environmental law.

I was pretty content there but Brooke always thought

I should be more ambitious.

So, I finally changed firms, put my nose to the grindstone,

but by then it was already too late for us.

What about this one?

Or do you need some kind of checklist to go through

before you make a decision?

Actually, I like it.

Hey, Elliot!

Jasmine!

What do you think about this one?

[Elliot] I love it!

[Jasmine] Perfect.

Okay.

So this is the one to beat then.

Let's just make sure there's no other good ones.

Abby, Abby, Abby... when you, uh, when find the right tree,

you know the one that's a keeper,

Um, you might just want to buy it so no one else snaps it up.

Settle, Mom.

Okay.

We'll take this one.

Yeah, we'll take this one.

Right here.

Thanks.

Good pick, buddy.

Oh man, that's a big tree.

How am I going to get that in the house?

Well I can help bring it in once I drop you guys off.

Remember, I do have an SUV big enough to fit my ego.

Sorry about that.

But you're not going to back out of my cocktail party, are you?

Oh, heck no.

I could use a cocktail about now.

And besides, a deal's a deal.

Elliot, look.

The pond.

Yeah.

I am just going to try and get all that I can.

What's taking her so long?

I ran home and put a new suit on in 15 minutes.

Well, son...

let me give you a pointer from someone married 35 years.

When a woman's getting all dressed up for you,

best to pipe down and smile.

Yeah, but we need to get there...

Daddy, he's right.

Okay, I'm ready.

How do I look?

Err...

I thought lawyers were never at a loss for words.

You look amazing.

Shall we go?

Yeah.

Have fun, kids.

Thanks.

We've got the other kids covered.

Fancy party.

My magazine's Christmas party this year was just a couple

cartons of eggnog and some peeps left over from Easter.

All our biggest clients are here so my boss wanted me

to make an appearance.

I just thought of something.

Are people going to think that I'm Lexie?

I'll just say that you're a friend.

Uh, there's my boss.

We'll just say a quick hello and leave.

Okay.

Ryan.

Back from the trenches I see.

Hello, nice to meet you.

Hi

I'm Candace.

And our firm's senior partner.

So this is the famous Lexie.

I was starting to think your girlfriend

didn't actually exist.

Actually, no.

This is, um...

Lexie. How do you do.

Pleasure.

Well, Terrance here was just telling us

all about his wedding plans.

Right.

So, you know, initially we were thinking Pebble Beach

and then we just settled on The Ritz in Maui.

Go big or go home I always say.

In this case we're going to big and then we're going to go home.

Living large. Right buddy?

I love Maui.

My husband and I met there in college.

Little ramen shop where we had to share the same table.

How about you two?

How did you meet?

You know, it's a great story.

You want to tell it, honey?

You tell it best.

Uh, well, I guess I would just have to say

it was a Christmas surprise.

Last Christmas.

We were both out shopping actually.

And we just sort of kind of bumped into each other.

He had this steely strength and many talents.

He sings, he dances.

She's as unique as a unicorn.

Anyway, one thing led to another...

And he just stole my heart.

Actually, I believe you stole mine.

Oh, how wonderful.

Anyways, I should probably get back to work.

I'm almost done with the revised contract

that I think will be to both parties's liking.

I hope so.

Nice to meet you, Lexie.

She's a catch.

Actually, Ryan's the catch.

Uh, honey...

For your firm.

Honey, we should...

He works all the time, day and night.

And forgive my bluntness but if anybody deserves

a step up to partner, it's him.

Well she doesn't hold back, does she?

Uh...ha...

We should probably be going, I have a contract to finish.

Nice to meet you.

Well keep your phone on, Ryan.

I may have some big news to share with you later today.

What was that back there?

Come on.

I just said the truth, you do work all the time.

Lexie.

You look so familiar.

Didn't I see you in the office?

We should go dance.

Goodness... man, no wonder you're so competitive.

That guy Terrance is a real jerk.

I owe you a big thank you for what you did back there.

You went above and beyond.

Hey, don't mention it.

Okay, look who's a good dancer.

You sound surprised.

Ooh!

Well anyways, I'm really sorry that the real Lexie

couldn't be here to join you and have fun.

Don't be.

Want to know the real reason she dumped me?

She wanted me to jet off to Milan with her for Thanksgiving

but I had Jasmine that weekend.

So I said no.

That was the final straw for her.

In my opinion you're better off without her.

I admit, I completely misjudged you.

I just thought you were this self-centred,

materialistic, rude...

Isn't there supposed to be a 'but'?

But... maybe I was wrong.

Ooh, sorry.

They found my car.

It's at Abe's Towing on West Maple. Oh!

I guess then I can drop you off after we head out?

Uh... do you have any plans later, for you and Jasmine?

Oh, I was just going to order pizza and put on a movie for her

while I finish the contracts.

Well... maybe you guys can come over later?

Jasmine and Elliot could hang, you could work.

Win-win?

I mean, if you wanted to.

We could decorate the tree.

Actually, that sounds pretty great.

All right.

Okay you guys, before we decorate too far.

I usually start at the base of the tree

and then I work my way up so all the decorations

are evenly spaced.

Sorry, old habits.

I guess we'll just see how everything goes?

Yeah.

Yeah.

Daddy.

Put them together, like a family.

You got it.

It's been years since we decorated a tree together.

You still have a great eye.

Oh!

Yeah!

Oh!

[laughing]

Not bad, huh?

Yeah, actually looks pretty good.

Even without a plan.

I'm proud of you.

Hey, since we're challenging ourselves,

I challenge you to turn that phone off for a bit

and enjoy all this.

You're right.

It's just that Candace kept hinting she might have

big news for me today.

Then you should definitely turn it off.

Sometimes it's not until you stop waiting for good news

that it finally arrives.

Good point.

I'm turning it off.

All right, you guys.

We're going to finish decorating and then it's dinner.

Yes!

I'm hungry!

What's with the popcorn?

I was going to maybe string it and put it on the tree.

Why wait?

Jasmine, I love you bigger than the sky.

Dance funny!

Jasmine, I love you bigger than the sky.

How's it going over there?

Almost done.

And you?

Me too.

And the kids sure look happy and focused.

Yeah.

I'd say your cell phone being off is having a positive effect.

Oh honey, I can't find the cocoa.

Oh, we must be out.

I can go get some.

I'll come with you, it's a quick walk.

Great.

Hey buddy, I'm going to go to the store.

Be good, okay?

Yeah, for sure.

Be back soon, Jasmine.

What's going on?

Happy with how your article turned out?

Actually, I am.

I included my opinion as well as Doctor Baxter's

and readers can decide for themselves

what works best for them.

When we get back I just have to proof it,

check for typos and send it in by 9:00.

So this Professor Baxter, he's like your personal guru?

I don't know so much anymore.

You know, he just set such a high standard for parenting

in all of his books and I always felt like he was helping me

strive for perfection.

But lately I just feel like I'm, most of the time,

falling short as a mom.

From what I've seen you're doing pretty great.

I'm sorry I said you were so lax with Jasmine.

She's awesome.

She's so self-assured, she's funny...

I think you're doing a great job too.

Thanks.

It's funny.

Before Jasmine... I thought I had it all.

Friends, travel, career.

But once my daughter came along, I feel sorry for the old me.

Not knowing how awesome being a dad would be.

I just wish I could do better.

Trust me, I think you do just fine.

I'm glad we got our toys mixed up.

Me too.

Funny how I'm appreciating the moonlight with a guy

I was arguing with just yesterday.

Guess I got a little caught up in the holiday pressure, huh?

Same here.

Why is it the most magical time of year is also the time

when life gets so crazy?

It's the Christmas puzzle.

Sometimes puzzles can be fun.

Honestly, I had more fun today than I've had in a long time.

Me too.

I'd forgotten the fun of a family Christmas.

It was a nice surprise.

I haven't been ready for surprises lately.

And in fact I've been doing everything I can

to avoid the unexpected.

And now?

Maybe it's time for a change.

Speaking of surprises... I almost forgot.

I got you an early Christmas present.

What?

But how did you get the store to give this to you.

Hey, I'm a lawyer.

I know how to negotiate.

And it was for a good cause.

Putting a smile on your face.

[Jasmine] He's giving her some kind of gift!

What?

Here, let me look.

How do you think it's going?

I don't know.

Well you can't rush these things.

You've got to let the moonlight do what the moonlight does.

I want to have a look.

The moonlight sure is nice.

Yeah, it is.

That's the thing about Christmas.

You've got to remember to look up and enjoy the lights.

I like how you put that.

Whoa, whoa!

No!

Oh my!

-Oh, you kids! -Oh, ho, ho, ho.

[Clarisse] Time for Christmas charades?

Charades?

-Coming. -Oh.

[Clarisse] You'll see, you'll see.

It's going to be a surprise.

Oh, great.

Jasmine, look at this.

Did you put marshmallows in it?

Lots of marshmallows.

Yes!

Thank you.

You're welcome.

Ryan, why don't you start us off?

Oh, no...

Come on! The stage is yours.

Yeah, yeah, yeah.

Please, for me!

Come on.

Okay, fine.

Yay! Yes.

High five.

Wait.

Ha-ha!

Okay. I got one.

See if you can guess it.

-First word. -One word.

-One word.

Two words together.

Oh, two words together.

Snow.

Snowing.

Snowing.

Uh... rain.

Rain, rain.

It's Christmas, why would...

Um... horns.

Reins...

Galloping.

Prancing.

Deer!

Deer.

Reindeer. Of course

Reindeer.

Oh!

Oh, there's more.

You're eating.

Rudolph.

Rudolph!

[laughing]

You're so good!

Alright, Chester. Your turn.

Oh, Alright.

Uh...

One word.

Mm-hmm.

Oh...

You hurt your back?

Uh...

Oh, he's a sore back.

You need a Christmas chiropractor?

I can't believe you don't get this.

The nutcracker.

Yeah, the nutcracker!

Yes, thank goodness!

Jasmine!

Good job Jasmine, good job.

Brilliant.

In the lead.

Mom, you're up.

No, no, no., no. I'm...

Please!

Take one for the team.

[phone buzzes]

I'm going to think of it.

[Clarisse] Okay, take your tim.

Get a good one.

You're so good at this.

I used to be.

Come on.

You're good at this.

Okay, okay.

I got one.

Hey Candace.

I got your text.

There's something important you wanted to talk about?

Yes, but not what I wanted to share.

Williams has got cold feet.

But I thought they were both ready to sign.

They're backsliding?

Afraid so.

Williams sent an email all worked up

with a whole new list of concerns.

You'll have to look at this no.

Okay, I'll take a look at the email now and form a reply.

I need you to action this now.

Yes, I get it.

Uh, I can do that for you.

I've got it. Okay, I will call you back.

Uh...uh...

A Christmas wrapper?

[Clarisse] Frozen.

No, it's right in front of you.

A Christmas tree!

Yes!

I'm going to go check the cookies.

Okay, you guys keep playing.

I'm going to finish my article too, I'll be back.

Okay.

[Chester] All right.

Clarisse, your turn.

[Clarisse] Okay.

Where'd you sneak off to?

Sorry, I got an important text.

I thought phones were off.

I know.

But I found my boss had big news.

Turns out the big news is my deal's falling apart.

Were you just on my computer?

I apologize, I was going to ask.

I hope you don't mind.

I just needed to take a look at the new demands.

Yeah, I just, um...

I usually don't let people use it

because I have it all organized, it's like...

I get it, I'm sorry.

It's my mistake, I'm done.

Oh no.

What is it?

No, no, no, no.

I didn't save the last version of my article.

Just tell me you didn't close the document.

I don't think I did.

I just checked my email.

Everything's gone.

Everything I wrote, I... I... I can't believe it just...

Maybe we can get it back.

It was just the last few edits, right?

You don't understand.

I don't miss deadlines.

I don't fail.

Believe me, I get it.

But sometimes things like this happen.

You just need to take it and move on.

Move on?

What I mean is we've still got time, Abby.

I can help you with this.

Cookies!

Ok.

Ooh!

Oh!

[coughs]

Oh my.

Ooooh!

Perfect.

Now my career and cookies have gone up in smoke.

Oh look, I can handle this, honey.

You just deal with your work.

Mom, that's okay.

I've already missed the deadline.

Can you just go check on the kids please and open some doors?

Okay. Thank you.

This is so frustrating!

This is exactly what happens when I take my eye off the ball.

It's not so bad.

Not so bad?

Why are you always minimizing things?

Maybe 'cause you're always maximizing them.

I'm sorry,

but in my world missing a deadline is a big deal.

I'm just saying maybif you'd ease off a bit and let us...

I don't have time to ease off, okay?

Why am I the one on the witness stand?

Let's look at your role in this.

Yes, I made one mistake and I feel terrible about it.

But these things happen.

Not to me.

Look... if you were just a little less distracted

and a little more present, you'd get it.

Can I please just have a minute?

Yeah.

Are you sure there's nothing I can do to help?

I just need to focus and handle things myself.

I see now that things go best when I do them myself,

when I stick to the schedule.

Maybe I'm not ready for all this anyways.

Not ready for what?

Surprises.

I see.

It's getting late.

Jasmine, we should go.

Take good care of Orson.

Take good care of Moxie.

I guess things didn't work out like we thought.

Yeah.

[Both] Bye.

Bye Jasmine.

Whoa, whoa, whoa.

Oops!

Bubba, what are you doing?

Baking cookies with Grandma.

I'm getting a head start.

That is the sweetest thing.

You are the sweetest guy.

Thank you.

All right.

Well let me help you clean up this mess, okay?

Are you excited for Christmas tomorrow?

Yeah.

Orson kind of misses Moxie.

He does, huh?

Who knew a robot and a unicorn could be friends?

Well, that just goes to show you that you never know

who's going to get along.

Like take you and Jasmine.

You guys are friends, right?

Yeah, that's true.

Jasmine told me that her dad is all alone for Christmas.

It's too bad.

I bet he could really use a friend too.

What are you doing in the office the day before Christmas?

Just making a last-ditch attempt to reach Williams and McCoy.

But they're not getting back to me.

And I thought I was the only one obsessive enough

to work over Christmas.

I'm sorry the deal went off the rails yesterday.

Williams is not the first person to get cold feet

in the eleventh hour over a multi-million-dollar deal.

Well he's not answering his emails.

I guess we'll just hope for good news in the new year.

Well about that...

you should probably pack up your office.

What?

Because you're going to be needing a bigger one soon.

Congratulations. You made partner.

But...

I have been through enough of these situations

to know that there is always a last-minute hitch.

But if a deal is meant to be it'll go through.

Sometimes things can't be rushed.

So, you're a partner.

Aren't you happy?

Of course.

Merry Christmas, Ryan.

Merry Christmas.

For parents,

Christmas is the season of high expectations,

of towering trees and big plan.

And if that pressure isn't enough,

this year my Christmas collided with another holiday traveler

a fellow single parent who broke all the rules of the road

and helped give Christmas chaos a new meaning.

It's so pretty here.

I love looking at the windows.

Oh! Daddy!

Come here.

Wait for it.

[laughing]

I love it when the kittens pop out of the boxes.

I'm surprised Mommy and Kenneth

didn't take you down here already.

Kenneth wanted to but I said I would rather come here with you.

You did?

How come?

We come here every year together.

Hey.

Want to go inside and go on a shopping spree?

I'll be getting a raise

so the sky's the limit.

If you want to Daddy but I just like looking

at the windows with you.

Me too.

Okay, let's go look at some more.

I really do love you bigger than the sky.

Well they're not perfect but they're not that bad either.

Not bad at all.

You all packed up, ready to go to your mom's tonight?

Yeah.

Can I bring Moxie to Aspen?

Absolutely.

Unicorns love snow.

And I want you to have the best Christmas ever.

[message alert]

Jasmine, go get your stuff together, honey.

We have to leave for your mom's soon, okay?

Thanks to my new friend I discovered

You can't always guess a gift by its wrapping.

And though our parenting styles couldn't have been more different

his dedication to his daughter's happiness, no matter the challenges,

was an inspiration.

And also a reminder to be open to new ideas and surprises.

Especially at Christmas, because sometimes the best present

is to live in the present.

At Christmas, we can't control the obstacles that appear in our path

but we're all trying to get to the same destination.

A happy home filled with those we love.

And as every parent knows,

life rarely goes according to plan.

So, this year I'm tearing up the plan.

And as to what New Year's brings.

Who knows.

I just know I'm ready for surprises

and I'd like to thank someone for that reminder

that in all the hubbub of Christmas,

don't forget to look up and enjoy the lights.

Mom, what are you doing?

This board has been running me ragged long enough.

But what about the schedule?

Well, we'll just have to make it up as we go, buddy.

Without the schedule, what's the plan for Christmas day?

Well, you know... I have an idea.

Okay, you ready?

Merry Christmas!

Merry Christmas, buddy.

Merry Christmas, Elliot.

I'm so excited for you to open this.

Open it! Open it!

It's a telescope!

Yeah.

Merry Christmas, Elliot.

Oh, there!

That's the one I like.

I know.

From that shop.

Yeah.

I am going to try it on.

[robotic sounds]

What in the world?

Surprise!

Surprise!

Merry Christmas!

[laughs]

Merry Christmas!

Merry Christmas, Daddy!

What's going on?

Well Mommy said we could do Christmas

a little different this year.

She did?

Brooke and I worked out a deal

and you've got Jasmine today until 8:00.

Really?

Yeah.

And we're kidnapping you

and we're bringing you to our house.

That is... if you'd like to come.

Actually... I'd love that.

By the way, I read your article.

You did?

Yeah. And I wanted to thank you.

For what?

For cutting me some slack.

I just wrote the truth.

You are a great dad.

Well... now I'm hoping to be an even better one.

[dinner conversation]

[Abby] Oh, those are my favourite.

[Elliot] Mom, everyone! It's snowing!

[Jasmine] It's snowing! Alright!

Oh my gosh.

All right!

This is so cool.

Come on!

Woo-hoo!

Oh, my goodness.

[Elliot] It's beautiful.

Oh, wow.

Wow.

Nothing like a home-cooked meal at Christmas.

And to think we have two star-crossed toys

to thank for all this.

Merry Christmas.

Merry Christmas.

Um, Abby...

Don't forget to look up.

Uh-oh.