All language subtitles for Never Kiss a Man in a Christmas Sweater (2020)

lays]
¶

¶ Just hear those sleigh
bells jingling ¶

¶ ring-ting-tingling too ¶

¶ Come on it's lovely weather ¶

¶ for a sleigh ride together
with you ¶

¶ Outside the snow is falling ¶

¶ and friends are calling
Yoo Hoo ¶

¶ Come on it's lovely weather ¶

¶ for a sleigh ride together
with you ¶

¶ Giddy yap, giddy yap,
giddy yap, let's go ¶

And even though my dad is still
stationed in Germany,

Santa will always know where
to find him.

That's right, Reed.

Santa's pretty magical
that way.

Great job on your paintings
everybody.

I'm very excited to see if your
holiday predictions come true.

Now, I've got good news.

I only have one hour of homework
assigned for you a day

over holiday break.

Pay attention.

Pay attention to the assignment.

The assignment is...

have as much fun as
you possibly can!

All right guys, Happy Hanukkah,
Merry Christmas.

Don't forget to read 15 minutes
a day, everybody.

Hey, Reed.

You going to be doing
that winter camp

over holiday break again?

Yeah. My mom has to work,
so my sister and I are going.

Well, I'll be volunteering
again.

Just like spring break.

With Ellen?!

Well, she'll be there for
the first couple of days.

And then she's got to go to
her dad's house for Christmas.

But...

Between you and me, the party
on Christmas Eve this year

is going to be off the charts.

Well, I mean it was
pretty fun last year.

And it's going to be even better
this time,

so take lots of pictures.

Hi Ellen.

I will.

Now, can we please get out
of here?

I'm so ready
for winter break.

Yes, please.
Let's go home.

You lead the way.

We need to do some wash
in the next couple of days

so that you have clothes
to wear to your father's.

They have a washer
and dryer.

Your father and Grace
have big plans for you.

The last thing they need
to be doing is your laundry.

But you're going to be all alone
for Christmas.

Oh, I've got big plans too.

I made it through a lot
of Christmases

before you came along.

I think I can handle one
on my own.

Look at that sweater.

Oh wow, yeah.
That is somethin'.

Oh! Oh!

You ok?

-Joey!
-I'm ok.

Hey, buddy.

You took quite a fall,
you okay?

Mmmhmm.

I'm going to be in
so much trouble.

I'm supposed to be watching him
on every single apparatus.

That was my very
clear directive.

Oh.

Promise me you'll keep it
a secret?

Oh, oh, we, we won't tell.

I barely took my eyes off him.

These things happen so fast.

Come here, buddy.
Let's get you up.

All right, let's take
a look at you.

Can you bend your arm?

Like this?

What about the other arm?

Can you wiggle your fingers?

They still wiggle.

Reach your arms up
to the sky?

Simon didn't say.

He's fine.

No scratches or scrapes.

I think your secret's safe.

He's still going to tell on me.
He always does.

Enjoy the honesty, it doesn't
last forever.

Thank you, um...

Maggie. Maggie.

Maggie. It was a pleasure.

I'd better... I'd better
get him back home.

Merry Christmas.

[awkwardly]
Oh yeah, this?

Yeah. It's a thing that our
family does, right Joey?

-Mmmhmm.
-Yeah.

-Bye.
-Bye.

Can we please go home now?
I'm starving.

Oh, yeah.
Let's go home.

¶

-Oh, wow, this is incredible.
-Good morning.

It looks great, doesn't it?

Oh good, you're here.

Not a moment too soon.

I'm short on volunteers
this year,

and we're just over a week
until the party.

Well, you've only got Ellen
for a couple of days,

but I'm in for the long haul.

Ellen, since you're so good
with the little ones,

why don't you help
with the ornament craft?

Ok, yeah.

And you can help unpack
the decorations

while I try to find someone
to pick up a live tree
from the lot.

It needs to smell like Christmas
in here.

Um, I can pick up a tree
from the lot.

You can't pick up a giant
Christmas tree by yourself.

Excuse me, yes I can.

Have you seen these muscles?
Look at that.

[laughs]

Give me the keys
to your truck.

I'll have the guys in the lot
throw it in the back for me.

Okay, if you're sure.

Do you want Ellen to go
with you?

Oh...

Can she stay?

She loves playing
with the kids,

and she's got to go
in a couple of days.

I'll keep an eye on her.

Thanks. You're the best.

You okay with that?

Your first Christmas
without her.

Yeah. Yeah, of course.

No, it's good,
it's fine.

I'm going to tackle
some household projects,

make a studio in the guesthouse,
maybe get some painting done.

It's going to be great.

All of that on top
of helping me here.

And I'm sure you're shopping
for the food bank.

Well, they need the help.

You do for everyone else,

and it's one of my favourite
things about you.

But it's Christmas, Mags.

You deserve a break.
Have some fun.

This will be fun.

I haven't painted in months.

I'm long overdue for some...
some me time.

Well just, don't give me
that look!

What look?

That look!

You know what,
give me those keys.

Ellen.

I'm going to go run a quick
errand, I'll be right back.

Stop it with that look.

What look?

The look! You know
the look.

-Bye.
-Bye.

¶

Okay, and thank you.

My car is parked
right over there.

Yeah, my guys
are actually busy

helping some other people
right now, and uh...

Oh.

...And I think those two
are in front of you,

so it just might be
a little while.

You know what, I can just
take it myself.

Not a big deal.

Okay.

Hi.

Oh no! Oh no!

I did not just kill
Christmas sweater dad.

Dad?

Oh, okay.

I'm going to call
for some help.

Hang tight.

Oh, hi.

Can I get an ambulance please,
to Foster Park,

the Christmas tree lot?

A jogger was hit.

No, not by a car.

By...

He was hit by a tree.
It was a tree.

No, it didn't fall on him,
it was more like into him.

But it's my fault, can you
just send someone?

Because I can explain it better
in person.

Great, thank you. Bye.

Okay. Help is on the way.

We're going to get you
all fixed up

and back to your little boy
in no time.

Everything's okay.

You.

Yeah.

Thank you so much for taking
her home, Alyssa.

Yeah, he just got out of surgery
on his wrist.

So the nurse said
that I could actually stay

for a little while
and just wait.

They're having a little trouble
getting a hold of his family.

I know, I feel so bad too.

Okay, all right, yeah, perfect.

I'll text you when I'm leaving.

Okay, bye.

I'm... I'm really sorry.

And I'll apologize again once
you wake up from the anesthesia.

You know they rebuilt
your wrist?

I think you might be a little
bit bionic now.

If it's any consolation, I'm...

I'm going to ask for help
next time.

I'm not always so good
at that.

Still sleeping?

Yeah.

I was finally able to reach
the family.

Great. I would like to stay
and apologize to them as well.

Let them know I can cover
any medical bills.

That should be fine.

Oh, no.

What have you done to yourself,
Lucas?

He's going to be okay.

It's my fault, but he just has
a mild concussion.

But listen, I promise I did not
ruin Christmas for you,

or your father,
or your family.

He's just sleeping right now
because of the medicine.

Oh, no. He's not...

Hey, buddy.

Daddy!

Well, the doctor said he's going
to be fine,

but they want to keep him
another day or so

for observation.

He told me what happened.

I'm Chris, his brother.

My wife Leah,
and this is Joey.

So this isn't Joey's father?

You two know each other?

We met yesterday
at the park.

I teach across the street
at Castle Heights.

Oh.

Lucas is just in town
for the baptism

of our littlest one
who's at home with my mom.

But he's supposed to leave
tomorrow on a trip...

skiing in Aspen.

No. No, not skiing.

Why can't it just be
a beach somewhere

where he can sit and relax
and not use his appendages?

Well, we did want him to stay
for Christmas, right?

Alyssa: You met him
at the park?

You didn't tell me that part
on the phone.

It didn't seem relevant.

Do you think I should put this
over the fireplace?

I like that one,

and not because you did it
on my bachelorette weekend.

I like the colours.

So, I googled your Christmas
tree victim,

and based on his social media
he seems like a decent guy.

I don't anticipate a lawsuit,
but if it happens,

I'll call my brother-in-law.

He's very good at
this sort of thing.

So you're cyberstalking him.

I'm just doing what
any good friend would do,

because you're too busy
looking out for everyone else.

Well, maybe that's
what works for me.

Maybe that way
you're never disappointed.

It's been two years, Mags.

Alex has moved on.

Maybe you should think about
doing the same thing.

Would you stop?

Also, I'm not worried about
the legal ramifications either.

This family seemed very nice.

Although I will embark
on an apology tour,

just to be safe.

Good thinking.

And I'll text you my
brother-in-law's number,

just to be safe.

Oh!

I don't like it.

¶

Hi. I'm Maggie.
Can I come in?

I remember you.

You do?

Yeah, from the park
the other day.

Oh.

You don't remember me
from the reason you're here?

Oh, you're the lady
from the tree lot.

Guilty.

Very, very guilty, and...

and trying to make it better
by bringing you plants.

So, you work there for tips,
or are you on salary?

[laughs weakly]

I promise next time
I'll get the guys

to carry the tree for me.

You do need to get better
at asking for help.

You were listening to me.

Yeah.

It's coming back to me.

I am so sorry about your trip.

No, no.

I'm still going, I just need
to leave a little later.

Sorry to interrupt.

Actually, the surgeon needs
to do a follow-up next week.

You had a pretty major break.

They put some screws in,

and he needs to make sure
it's healing as it should.

This is not negotiable?

Sorry.

What can I do?

Can you get me
out of here?

Yeah, sure.

And she said you're going
to be discharged later
this afternoon, so...

No, no. Right now.
I could use some fresh air.

Oh, yeah.

You know what, there's
a courtyard outside.

I can go ask the nurse,
she's really nice,

she lets you break
the rules.

Could you please?

Yes, I'll go talk to her.
I'll be right back.

The courtyard is right here.

-Great, thank you so much.
-You're welcome.

Is that okay to sit here?

Mm-hmm.

'Kay.

So that Christmas sweater
the other day.

Wow, that was something.

Yeah, you couldn't see it,
but under his jacket

Joey was wearing
a matching one

which he thought was
the coolest thing.

So he was the lucky one.
He got to cover his up.

Mm-hmm.

Leah and Chris, they have this
ugly Christmas sweater party,

and they were pulling out
all the stops

to get me to stick around
for it.

Making me and Joey twins, hoping
he would beg me to stick around.

They're shameless.

Wait, they didn't hire you
to maim me, did they?

Oh no, no.

I would've encouraged it though.

I could use the extra
holiday money.

So why didn't you want to spend
Christmas here with your family?

Christmas isn't really my thing.

There he is.

The nurse told me you snuck out
to get some fresh air.

I saw you already had one of
these in your room,

and now you've got a set.

You never were very original,
were you?

My students rarely fall asleep
during my lectures.

We can't all do
what you do?

Did.

I don't do anymore.

For the time being, maybe.

Cameron, this is Maggie.

Hi there.

I did this.

Accidentally, of course.

I would certainly hope so.

Cameron and I went to
architecture school together,

and well, he never left.

I never had his vision.

Well, my vision's
kind of on a break.

Of course, not the kind of break
I was hoping for.

Yeah, your brother told me
about the ski trip.

It's still happening.
I'm not giving up on it.

So, you're getting sprung today
I hear.

You going to Leah and Chris's?

They don't have room for me
with her family here.

It's okay, I'll go back
to the hotel.

An overpriced hotel
with holiday rates?

That's crazy.

No, you'll stay with us.

The twins are almost sleeping
through the night.

Look at me.

I'm only half a zombie today.

Almost sleeping through
the night?

Yeah.

Yeah, as enticing
as that sounds,

I really like having
my own space, thanks.

Hmm, what about a short-term
rental?

I hear they have
good weekly rates.

A, I'm not going to be here
for a week.

And B, everything's probably
booked this close to Christmas.

Excuse me, if I may, I... I
usually rent out my guesthouse,

but I'm turning it
into an art studio

so it's actually vacant
right now.

You're welcome to use it
if you want.

No, I couldn't ask you
to do that.

You didn't ask.
I offered.

Which is very kind, but
I don't want to impose.

You're not imposing.

Or if you feel like
we're imposing on you,

my daughter's going to go
visit her father,

so you'll have all the privacy
you want.

I think it sounds like
a great plan.

I mean...

I mean, I don't know.

You're sure?

Yes, I'm sure.

Here.

Here's my phone number.

Oh, dear. Sorry.

I'll go home and get the place
ready for you.

Nice to meet you.

You too.

-Ok.
-Alright. Bye.

Huh, Christmas in town?

Way better than skiing.

Alyssa: Well, this is
an interesting development.

Now Christmas sweater dad
is moving in with you?

His name is Lucas.

He's not a dad and he's not
moving in.

We're just putting him up
for a couple of days.

Well, so much for setting up
your art studio.

I know.

I'll get to it eventually.

So, what's he like?

He's fine.

Fine?

Yeah, fine.

Well, I was looking on his
social media, and yes.

Fine is the word I would use.

Would you stop?

It's not like that.

You should've seen the sweater
he was wearing

at the park the other day.

Ugh.

Bad taste can easily
be corrected.

So I'll withhold any judgement
until I see him myself.

Wait, isn't there an old saying,

"One should never kiss a man
in a Christmas sweater?"

No, that's not a thing.

I'm pretty sure it's a thing.

...Coffee filters are a thing
that he would need

if he wanted
to have coffee here.

Hi!

Are these the right size
for the sofa bed?

Yeah, right over there.
Thank you so much, honey.

We want to make sure he feels
completely at home here,

since your mother ruined
his holiday.

Oh, thank you.
I'd almost blocked it out.

Just saying.

Okay, here we are.
Come on in.

This is so great,
and cozy.

Thank you Maggie
for putting him up.

I hated the thought of him
all alone at that hotel.

Yeah, of course.

It's all top of the line
and the sofa bed

is one of the good ones,
I promise.

I'm sure it is.

Oh good, you have
a coffee grinder.

I got you your favourite beans.

Anything we can do to help,
just let us know.

Lucas, did you see all
the lights around her house?

I sure did.
Couldn't miss 'em.

Okay.

Okay.

We are going to get the
groceries from the car.

Okay.

But if we missed anything,
let me know.

I'll go get it for you.

Joey: Bye.

Maggie: Bye!

Bye. Bye.

Do you need help?
I can help you.

I got it.
Really, I'm okay.

Well uh, listen.
These are all the instructions.

So, um, appliances, cable,
wi-fi password.

Everything that you need.

Anything else, you call,
you can text,

you can yell across the yard.

We can hear you.

Okay.

You want to come over
for dinner tonight?

Hmm?

I'm making Ellen's favourite.

-Bolognese?
-No.

-Chicken Parm?
-No.

Oh. Mac and Cheese?

No. Enchiladas.

Yeah, that's my favourite too.

In my defence, you have
a lot of favourites.

I appreciate that, but I'm...
I'm feeling a little bit woozy.

I'm probably just going
to get some rest.

Of course.

Yeah, that's, yeah.
If you need anything...

I can call, text, and
yell across the yard.

That's what I was going to say.

Oh, I said it earlier. Right.

Yeah.

Okay. Bye.

-Bye.
-Goodbye.

Thanks again.

Thank you. Thanks, and...

Hey.

He's having a tough day.

He's supposed to be
on the plane right now,

and he was so looking forward
to that trip.

Not to make you feel
any worse.

We'll do our best
to cheer him up.

Don't be surprised if he's not
very receptive at first.

He's had a rough year, so he can
be a bit prickly at times.

Okay, that's good to know.

Thanks.

Thank you.

¶

Leftover Enchiladas.

I made the sauce.

Very thoughtful.

Thanks.

And this.

Yeah, it's a good one.

I haven't read it yet.

And we're going to be decorating
the tree later,

if you'd like to come join us.

You have to.

It's not Christmas
until the tree's done.

You know what, can
we play that by ear?

You know me and... trees.

Plus I'm feeling a bit achy.

Yeah, of course.

If you change your mind,
you know where to find us.

Thanks.

Yeah.

Oh, I'll get that for you.

He's never going to forgive me,
is he?

Nope.

So this box is only lights.

This one's just ornaments.

Okay, so the garland box
must be deep in the closet.

I've got to label these
before I put them away.

Will you add that
to my to-do list?

We need to finish this tonight.

Well, if we can.

You still have to pack.

We can.

If you're going to be all alone
for Christmas,

you have to have a pretty tree.

Excuse me, I'm not going to be
all alone on Christmas.

I'm going to have dinner
with you on Christmas night.

And I'm the one who's supposed
to be worrying about you,

not the other way around.

You know what?

We're going to need a step stool
to reach the top of that tree.

I'm going to grab one
from the garage.

I'll be right back.

[knocking at door]

Hi.

You changed your mind!

Uh, actually I was wondering
if you're having a problem

with the internet.

Mine doesn't seem
to be working.

Yeah.

Ellen: Yeah, that happens a lot.

Especially when I'm playing
Major Quest, my favourite game.

I'll teach you
how to play later.

Ah, sounds good.

Yeah, I was streaming
this truly terrible movie.

I need to know how it ends.

Yeah, I can reset the router
from my phone.

Okay.

It should be back up and running
in about five minutes.

Okay. Great, thanks.

Yeah.

Wait.

You're tall.

Uh... Thank you?

We can't reach the top
of our Christmas tree.

Can you help?

[laughs]

Yeah, sure.

Great, right this way.

My nemesis.

Oh no.

This is a different tree.

I promise this one holds
no ill will toward you.

The bad one's at the youth
centre on the base.

I volunteer there.

Ellen, look.

It's your bunny.

You love bunnies.

Yeah, when I was a baby.

Don't worry, your secret's
safe with me.

Here you go.

You can put that right
on top.

All right.

Mm-hmm.

I do remember you're good
at keeping secrets.

Oh, just the benign ones.

Did Leah ever find out
about Joey's fall?

He squealed in the first
two minutes.

I only got a short lecture,
though.

She let me off easy.

So, skiing in Aspen?

Yeah, long overdue trip,
and I needed a change.

Ah, change can be good.

Ellen's got one tomorrow.

She's going to her
dad's house.

Looks good.

Even, symmetrical.

Hey, nice word usage.

It was on my last vocab list.

I love to see that list
in action.

[washer beeps]

Oh, can you change the clothes
over to the dryer?

Okay.

Ellen's stepmother has a friend
that owns a chocolate factory,

and they're going to be taking
Ellen on a private fancy tour.

Oh, that sounds delicious.

I love chocolate.

I'll bring you some.

I'm going to hold you to that.

Have fun tomorrow.

[sighs]

Well um, goodnight.

Oh, you're not going
to keep decorating?

I've got a bad movie
to finish.

I mean, I've already dedicated
an hour of my life.

What's another 23 minutes?

You're going to miss carols
and cocoa.

Yeah, um...

Take a rain check.

¶

Hey.

Listen, I know.

I did this to you,
and I am so sorry.

What can I do?

[sighs]

It's fine, Maggie.

Listen.

I know, I know.

Your Christmas isn't happening
the way you wanted.

Mine isn't either, but,

but we can't just sit around
and dwell on our situations.

I'm not dwelling,
I'm withdrawing.

You know what always helps
when everything seems bleak?

Giving back.

Volunteering.

Especially during the holidays.

[laughs]

You're going to
"good Samaritan" me?

Well, I am losing my volunteer
partner in the morning,

so I need someone to step in
for her.

Yeah, and would that someone
happen to be

a one-handed architect

who most definitely is not
dwelling right now?

I don't know, I mean,

do you know anybody
that fits that description?

I can't even imagine.

[small laugh]

Noon tomorrow?

'K.

Get inside. It's cold.

[laughing]
I know!

¶

Okay, so you have your phone,
you can call me anytime.

What if it's 4:00 AM?

Well, I'll answer.

You might want to wait
until I've had my coffee,

but I'll answer.

Hi Mags, merry Christmas.

Hi. Merry Christmas.

Hi Grace.

We'll take good care of her.

Of course you will.

-Hey kiddo. Merry Christmas.
-Hey.

Merry Christmas, Dad.

Good morning.

I was just on my way
to the cafe,

but I wanted to say goodbye.

Don't you forget my chocolate.

I won't.

Try the blueberry waffles,
they're my favourite.

Okay.

New renter?

Yeah, he's really nice.

Merry Christmas, Lucas.

Merry Christmas, Ellen.

Hey, I love you.

Be polite, okay?

Thank you.

-Thank you so much, have fun!
-Ok.

Bye.

¶

You okay?

Yeah.

You want to go to breakfast?

I hear good things
about the blueberry waffles.

No, that's okay.
We actually already ate.

I'm going to go
do some dishes

before we give back
to the world.

I'll see you at noon.

Yeah.

¶

Mm.

Oh, thank you.

Mm.

She was right.

Best blueberry waffles
I've ever had.

Your new landlord?

No, her daughter.

She's a pretty cool kid.

How's it going there?

You know, fridge is stocked,
bed's comfy,

wi-fi's spotty, but all in all
I'd give it a four star.

So what, you just going to hole
yourself up in there all week?

I mean it's Christmas.

Maybe you could enjoy yourself?

I had an enjoyable plan
for the holidays,

but now that's a bust.

Come on, Lucas.

What happened in New York?

You were going to be running
that firm one day.

I guess...

Between the 70-hour work weeks
and one project

bleeding itself into the next,

you know, nothing felt
special anymore.

My passion suddenly felt like
a chore.

And then when Shannon called off
the engagement,

that was the last straw.

I needed a break.

They're not going to let
the sabbatical last forever.

Maybe that's what I want.

You're just going to quit
your job?

I don't know.

You know, you work yourself
to the bone

striving for this level
of success,

and then when you get there,

you think it's all going to be
sunshine and rainbows,

but you know what it is?

It's 10 more work
hours added

to an already overwhelming
schedule.

Well, that my friend, is
the price of your talent.

Then maybe I don't want
to pay it.

I want to feel my life, Cam.

Do all those things that I've
kept putting off for my career.

It's a balancing act, and you
were never very good at it.

Yeah.

Do you still love architecture?

More than anything.

But I never had your talent,

so I get to appreciate it
from afar.

Those who can't do, teach.

Hmm.

And what happens
when those who can do

don't want to anymore?

I think that's a question
only you can answer.

I knew you were going
to say that.

It's a holiday camp for kids

who have one or more
parents deployed.

So they do games
and activities,

there's a big party
on Christmas Eve.

My best friend runs
the youth centre,

so Ellen and I have been
volunteering since she was six.

And this year, one of
my students is attending.

You're a teacher.

Yeah, second grade.

How did I not know that?

Hmm, you never asked.

Now, I'm the one who owes you
an apology.

Oh pfft, no you don't.
For what?

For never asking.

Child: I love gingerbread.

This one?

Nope.

Here?

Nope.

Huh?

Mm-mm.

That's the one.

[laughs]
Yes, that's it.

I am watching you.

[laughs]

Oh.

Hi, I'm Alyssa.

-This is Lucas.
-Hi.

Thanks for coming.

Okay, so the theme to
the Christmas Eve party

has officially now changed
to Gingerbread Lane.

Oh.

I know it's only five days away,

but who likes a challenge
more than me?

No more winter wonderland.

This bakery donated a ton
of gingerbread house kits,

so there you go.

Free is the theme.

Great.

We're going to line the room
with all the houses,

and the kids are just putting
them together now.

Miss Alyssa, could I make mine
a two-storey house?

You can make it a ten-story
if you want.

There are no rules, Violette.

It keeps... falling down.

Looks like you're having some
reinforcement issues there.

May I?

Okay.

You see this?

Using one cookie is
the equivalent of using
two-by-fours,

which aren't strong enough
to support the roof.

However, if you use a second one
and like so, it's thicker.

Now you have the equivalent
of two-by-eights.

Why don't you grab the roof?

And...

Voila.

Do you think we can make
a skyscraper?

Pfft, I think we could build
that thing

all the way to the ceiling
if we do it right.

But make sure
for balance,

you set a really wide foundation
before you start building up.

And then it has to taper
a bit at the top.

Cool.

Cool.

Remember when you said

"one should never kiss a man
in a Christmas sweater?"

Yeah?

I think one could potentially
make an exception

when it's that man.

Oh!

All right, who is up
for a winter challenge?

Ooh.

I'm always up for a challenge.

But I should warn you,
I am very competitive.

Oh, yeah?

Well, I have an advantage.

What's that?

Two hands.

[laughs]

Okay everybody,
snowball fight time.

The rules are...

What are the rules
of a snowball fight?

You just, you throw
and you don't stop?

That's exactly right.

So how do you know
who wins?

Just whoever's driest?

Okay, whoever's driest
when all is said and done.

It's a good thing I have
a waterproof cast then,

because I don't like
to lose.

We're not going to lose.

My dad and I do this
when we're home.

He wins at everything.

He's a superhero.

Dad's not a superhero Reed,

he's just a soldier like
Everett's mom and Sarah's dad.

He may not wear a cape,
but my dad is a superhero.

Of course he is, you guys.

He's out there,
away from his family,

fighting to keep us all safe.

If that doesn't make him
a superhero,

then I don't know what does.

I guess.

What?

They said you were prickly.

Who said that?

They.

My brother and Leah.

I'm going to have a talk with
them when they come by tonight.

Oh, I keep your secrets

and then you're going
to throw me under the bus?

[laughing]

You're supposed to throw them
at the other team.

[laughing]

¶

¶

So you want us to come back
again and help tomorrow?

I need you every minute
of every day,

but yes please,
come back tomorrow.

And thank you, Lucas.

You are a welcome edition.

It was my pleasure, really.

Hey mister.

My dad and I made a giant
clubhouse in our backyard

that you can go inside.

Can you make a giant
gingerbread house like that?

Oof, I don't think there are
enough cookies

in the world to do that.

You know, but if you made it
out of wood

and you painted it to look
like gingerbread,

I don't see why not.

So you'll do it then?

I... I'm sorry?

I'll do what?

Help us make a giant
gingerbread house.

I actually think this is
a really good idea.

We could put it right in
the middle of the room,

and I may know of
an esteemed architect

who could help us build it.

After the party we can
move it outside

and make it a permanent
structure for the playground.

Woah, I don't know.

I don't even know how long
I'm going to be here.

Are you leaving tomorrow?

No.

What about the next day?

No.

What about Friday?

I got a follow-up
on the 26th.

Oh, after the party.

That' s interesting,
interesting.

But I'm not in the best shape.

We'll do all the work.

I have experience.
I've done this before.

Have you?

Okay, all right.

Let's do it.

This is going to be so much fun.

Counting on you.

¶

We'll need some cedar shakes
and some brown paint

to make the house look
like gingerbread.

Oh, and blueprint paper.
Put that on the list.

And I have all the brushes
that we'll need for the trim

in the guest house, but we're
going to need some rollers.

Yeah, that's a pretty decent
art stash you have back there.

Is it Ellen's?

Oh no, Ellen doesn't paint
unless it's on a touch screen.

Actually, I haven't either much
in the last year,

but I'm planning on turning the
guest house into an art studio.

Start painting again.

But not this week, don't worry.

Sounds like we both ruined
each other's plans, huh?

Oh, well mine's not really
as big of a deal as yours.

I mean, I like painting
but it's more of a hobby.

You know, I find it soothing,
it's meditative.

Hmm.

So those paintings
in the living room.

Are those yours?

Yeah.

You're pretty good.

Why did you stop?

Oh, I don't know if I did
ever really stop.

But you know, life.

My daughter.

Also it's so disorganized
up there.

I figure I'll get to it
when I get to it.

Well, I think it's important
to take time

for the things that
you want to do.

Hmm.

Like skiing in Aspen.

Like skiing in Aspen.

But that's just one item
on a very long to-do list.

There you are.

We were ringing the bell
and calling.

Oh, I am so sorry.

I completely forgot that you
guys were coming by tonight.

I see where we stand
in the pecking order.

Oh my gosh, please come
and sit down.

Get in here.

I've guilted him into servitude.

He's been volunteering
with me at the youth camp

on the military base.

Oh, don't look so surprised.

I happen to have
a very good heart.

I just choose to hide it
from you.

[laughs]

And here we felt bad thinking
you were all alone

while we were at work today.

I like to see you
getting involved.

Maybe now you'll come to
our party tomorrow night?

Uh...

It's an ugly Christmas
sweater theme,

and he's already got
the wardrobe for it.

We'd love for you to join,
Maggie.

It sounds really fun.

I would love to.

All right, fine.

I'm in.

[laughter]

There's a white
elephant exchange,

so bring the most ridiculous
$10 gift you can find.

You've got it.

I'm just happy he's not moping
around anymore.

Whoa, whoa, whoa,
I was never moping.

No, he wasn't moping.

He was withdrawing.

But we put a stop to that
pretty quickly.

Hey, can I get you guys
some hot chocolate?

-Uh, yes, please.
-Yeah, ok.

-Thank you.
-Coming right up.

¶

Do these go in
the dishwasher?

Maggie?

What?

You okay?

Yeah.

Yeah, I'm good.

Yeah, I was just thinking about
what you said?

Uh, what did I say?

About how it's important
that we do what we want to do.

Okay.

So what is it that
you want to do?

Well for starters, I want
to change this tree.

It's been decorated like this
for years.

I've always loved a tree
that was simple and classy

with white lights and lots
of red and silver,

which my ex thinks is boring.

So those decorations have been
collecting dust for years.

What does Ellen like?

Ellen's 11.

She doesn't care about
what's on the tree,

she only cares about
what's underneath.

[laughs]

Okay then.

Why don't you go get
those decorations,

and let's change this tree.

-Seriously?
-Seriously.

Oh, do you need help?

No, I can get it.

So where does
this insatiable need

to put everyone else
first come from, huh?

[laughs]

It's probably collateral damage
from my marriage.

I mean, I did everything.

The house, the shopping,
the school,

our bills, our daughter.

And on top of that,
all my students.

The epitome of a multitasker.

I didn't mind, you know.

We were building
a future together.

My ex was growing his insurance
company so that one day

Ellen could go to college
and I could go to Paris.

You know in movies
when people sit

and they paint the Paris
landmarks?

I always wanted to do that.

And what did you paint?

Arc de Triomphe?

The Louvre?

I don't see any Parisian
landmarks on these walls.

Yeah, probably because
I never went.

The business was his world,
and then there was Ellen and me.

And coming in second place
is probably great

when you're in the Olympics,
but it did not work for me.

And believe me, I tried.

It's okay. I...

We're still friends,
and I'm glad he's happy.

And what about you?

What about me?

Well, why not pick up
some paint brushes

and take yourself to Paris?

Oh, I might.

Yeah, maybe after Ellen
graduates from high school?

That's years from now.

Look, I was just like your ex,
you know.

Always putting it off
until you reach that big goal.

Did you ever get
where you wanted to go?

Oh yeah.

Yeah, yeah, I got there.

Yeah, but it turns out
the promised land

doesn't know how to keep
a promise.

Architecture just didn't
fill me up anymore.

How did you get interested in
architecture in the first place?

Um, James Smith Maxwell.

Who?

My father was a project manager
for him.

He designed the most exquisite
homes I've ever seen.

Never reached the notoriety
of, say, Frank Lloyd Wright.

But we had this coffee table
book on him,

and I thought it was so cool how
something my father helped build

was now in the pages
of a book.

I wish I still had it,
but it's out of print.

So you wanted
to build houses?

You go ahead, sorry.

Um yeah, yeah.

But I was recruited
straight out of college

by this big firm in New York.

I mean, why build houses
when you can touch the sky?

Do you like teaching?

Yeah.

Yeah, of course.

I get excited to go to work
every day.

And I can share my love of
painting with my students.

Well, they say that you
should spend your time doing

what brings you the most joy
in life.

Oops.

So what brings you
the most joy?

It used to be building,

but now I... I really
don't know anymore.

You know, maybe you got
burnt out, Lucas.

Why do you think I chose
a profession

that gives me summers off?

[laughs]

We all need a break sometimes.

Yeah, I guess maybe
you're right.

¶

And then we re-did the tree
exactly the way I like it.

We?

Yeah, Lucas helped.

We're friends.

He's a good guy.

Yes, he is.

But he's also one of those

super high-powered career
driven types.

We all know where
that road leads.

You said Lucas walked away
from all that.

Yeah, temporarily.

But people always return
to the patterns

that make them
the most comfortable.

Like take Alex for example.

As soon as he realized
I wasn't willing

to live life on his terms,

he went out and found somebody
who was.

Besides, as soon
as Lucas's doctor

gives him the go-ahead to fly,
he's out of here.

Okay, so maybe Lucas
isn't your guy.

But I still think you should
keep your options open.

I mean, eventually Ellen's going
to go away to college,

and then what?

And then, I don't know.
That's a long way off.

Just be open to
the possibilities,

that's all I'm saying.

It always happens
when you're not looking.

I swore off relationships
after Darren,

and then on the one time my
coffee place had a power outage,

I go to another?

I meet my husband.

Coincidence?

I think not.

Maybe that was luck.

There are no accidents, Maggie.

Of course there
are accidents.

You see them every day.

Just turn on the news.

I don't want the news.
It's too depressing.

And you may scoff,

but you know what else
was invented by accident?

Penicillin.

Popsicles.

The chocolate chip cookie.

[laughs]

One person's accident
is another person's fate.

Just keep your eyes open.

Oh, I actually have to go
in here.

Don't you deflect.

I'm not deflecting.

I have to get a present
for Lucas for Christmas.

Do you get all your new friends
Christmas gifts?

Would you stop it?

I'm still on my apology tour.

Well...

I hope you put this much thought
into my present.

Ooh.

Actually, maybe they'll have
something for you in here too.

[laughs]

All right, everyone.

Gather around.

Because on these pages
here is our life-sized
gingerbread house.

Every venture begins
with a well-executed plan.

Uh, it's blank.

I know.

That's the best part.

We're going to create it.

Together.

¶

¶ Just hear those
sleigh bells jingling ¶

¶ ring-ting-tingling too ¶

¶ Come on it's lovely weather ¶

¶ for a sleigh ride together
with you ¶

¶ We're singing the songs
we love to sing ¶

¶ without a single stop ¶

¶ These wonderful things
are the things ¶

¶ we remember all through
our lives ¶

¶ These wonderful things
are the things ¶

¶ we remember all through
our lives ¶

¶ Just hear those
sleigh bells jingling ¶

¶ ring-ting-tingling too ¶

¶ Come on it's lovely weather ¶

¶ for a sleigh ride
together with you ¶

[whispers] Feels
a little ambitious.

[whispers] Trust me,
I'm a professional.

Wow.

Is it really going to look
like that?

If I've done my job right.

I wish Dad was here to see
what it looks like

when it was finished.

[melancholy music]
¶

[whispers] Don't tell him
but it's better

than the house we made.

That's okay.

Because I bet he's better at
his job than I would ever be.

He's a superhero, remember?

Don't worry. We'll have mom text
him lots of pictures, Reed.

All right, guys.

Please help come clear off
the table

before we start to build
our masterpiece.

That was so awesome.

Yeah.

I feel so bad for them,

not having their parents
with them for Christmas.

And here I was whining
about not going skiing.

I'm worse than that tree.

No, you're not.

These... these things have
a way of giving us

some much-needed perspective.

You know, I was going
to skip out entirely

on Christmas this year.

Seeing how they make
the best of this,

I just wish there was more
we could do for them.

Well, short of bringing
their parents here,

I don't know if we can
make it better.

Well, I think we need
to figure something out.

Okay?

Okay.

¶

In the past we've had parents
send letters.

It's always very sweet.

Yeah, we could do that.

What if we have each deployed
parent make a gingerbread house

representing wherever they are
in the world?

Yes.

And then we could post
giant pictures

around the party of each soldier
next to his or her creation.

That's a good idea,

but what if they're in Greenland
or somewhere?

How are they going to get
the supplies?

The party's in four days.

Well, the military can ship
things so fast,

and we've plenty of kits.

Okay, but these soldiers have
jobs and responsibilities

at their posts.

We need to speak
to Colonel Morrison.

Okay. Yeah.
Maybe he can help.

Her.

Colonel Morrison's a she.

And I happen to have a good
relationship with her.

So let's see if she can make
a few minutes for us.

This is going to be
so great.

So great!

Colonel Morrison.

This is Maggie and Lucas.

They're volunteering with me
at the youth centre.

Thank you for meeting
with us today.

Walk with me to my
next meeting.

...and we really need
your help

because we want to make it
a surprise.

Both for the kids in the program

and for the parents here
on the base.

Well, we're like family
on this base,

and I always want to do what
I can for my family.

But there are a lot of
logistics involved.

We're talking about soldiers
in the field

who could be in the middle
of training

in the middle of nowhere.

Right.

We're...we're just asking
for you to try.

It's Christmas.

And if we can help to give
even one of these kids

a special surprise,
that would be a...

a great gift for all of us.

Yeah.

Hmm.

I'd have to get their commanders
in the field

to agree to the time off.

No guarantees.

Of course.

How many are enrolled
in the campus here?

Nine permanently enrolled.

Some are siblings,
maybe five families?

Okay, get me a list.
I'll make some calls.

I want their Christmas to be
special too,

but it's complicated.

Like I said,
I'll do what I can.

-Thank you.
-Thank you.

Let's not say anything
to anyone

in case she can't
make it happen.

My lips are sealed.

All right, let's see
how that paint is drying.

We've got lots
of building to do.

Four days and counting.

You think that we can get
it all done, Lucas?

The kids have really been
talking it up,

and I don't want to let
anyone down.

I've had crazier deadlines
than this,

and I've never missed one yet.

Thanks.

Oh, you know what guys?

Can you start without me?

I've got to run some errands.

What do you have to get?

Well, I need to get more candy
and decorations for the kids,

for starters.

If we get approval.

Well, we need to be prepared

in case we can send them out
in the morning.

And then I need more clay
for the house.

We've got an ugly Christmas
sweater party to go to,

and all I have are pretty
sweaters in my closet.

Oh, I completely forgot
about Chris and Leah's party.

We need white elephant
gifts too.

Also on my list.

I figure I can find something
at the craft store.

The more hideous
the better.

What do I look like,
an amateur?

[laughs]

I'll be back in a few.

[phone rings]

I'll be right there.

I'll grab the fans
and put the planks near

so the paint dries faster.

Yup.

Aaron?

Lucas. We miss you around here.

How's that sabbatical?

Is it done?

I've got some great news.

We won the bid for Bookman
insurance headquarters

and guess who they're asking
to run point?

Uh, Frank Lloyd Wright?

[laughs]

No.

And not because he's dead,
either.

They want you, because you are
the best in the business.

Wow.

Well, congratulations Aaron.
That's a huge get.

Indeed.

And there is no one better
for it.

So what do you say?

You've had a little rest,
a little me time, right?

We need you back.

Ah, I'm not ready yet.

And Aaron, it's almost
Christmas.

I don't mean tomorrow.

Look, sing songs.

Drink cocoa.

Eat, I don't know, what?
Candy cane?

[laughs]

Then come back refreshed
after the new year.

I'll tell you what.
I'll think about it.

I need you to do more
than think.

Look, we need you buddy.

And you need to be here.
This is where you belong.

Now do me a favour,

have yourself a merry
little Christmas.

Thanks, Aaron.
You too.

Wow.

Now that is starting to look
like a gingerbread house.

No, it's not.

Ah, but the first rule
of building.

We have to imagine it up here
before it can exist out there.

Okay.

I see it.

-Me too.
-Ok.

Goodnight, kids.

I've checked all
the online auctions.

There's just nothing.

There's got to be
a copy somewhere.

So, is there anybody else
we can call?

Oh, that would be great.
Do you mind?

Okay, great.

Call them, and call me
right back.

Okay, bye.

[knocking]

Hi, come in.

Ooh, there it is.

The old standby.

Come on, you got to admit
I make this thing look good.

And it definitely leaves
an impression, that's for sure.

I'll take that as a win.

It's a big turnaround,

considering you didn't
even want to go tonight.

What can I say?

Your enthusiasm is infectious.

Now why aren't you ready,
hmm?

I was ordering goodie bags
for the party.

You know, work
is never done.

I was going to help you
with that in the morning.

You're not alone in this,
Maggie.

So let me help you.

Give me five minutes, okay.

Prepare to be wowed.

¶

Oh, I've been ready.

It's like really
super-duper terrible.

Come on, it can't be
that terrible.

Wow, that is terrible.

I know.

Isn't it perfect?

[laughs]

I hope they're having
a contest at this thing,

because we are bringing home
that prize.

I also think that, you know,
being dressed like this,

people may think that we're,
um, a couple out on a date.

Oh gosh.

Well, I will be sure to tell
all of the eligible women

at this party that we are not.

Yeah, I mean thanks for offering
to be my wing-woman,

but that won't be necessary.

You know, since
I don't live here,

I'm not actually on the lookout
right now.

Right, of course.
Me neither.

Yeah, we're just two friends
having a fun time.

Exactly.

Shall we?

We shall.

Look what else
my necklace does!

Music too?

I know, it's subtle
but it's good, right?

It's, yeah, it's subtle.

Yeah, that's what
I would've said...

[big band version of "Jingle
Bells" plays]
¶

¶ Dashing through
the snow ¶

¶ In a one-horse
open sleigh ¶

¶ O'er the fields we go ¶

¶ Laughing all the way ¶

¶ Bells on bobtails ring ¶

Hey guys.

So how's the latest
project coming?

On time and on schedule?

This guy could never keep
it simple.

We're actually making
pretty good progress,

but you know, we could use
some more manpower.

Just tell me when
and where to be.

I was hoping you were going
to say that.

We're happy to help too.

I mean, we've barely seen you
this week.

You're not the only one in
the family with a good heart.

His taste holds something
to be desired.

[laughs]

And so does everyone else's.

[laughs]

We're just glad you decided
to come.

Thank you for dragging
him here.

Oh no, there was no dragging.

He came willingly.

What are you doing to him?

I don't even know if I recognize
him anymore.

I'm just a guy enjoying
the holidays and living

in the moment, and right now
the moment is all about eggnog,

so point me in the direction.

This way.

-Excuse us.
-Ok.

So, I think I like
this happy-go-lucky,

enjoying the holidays Lucas.

Don't get too used to it.

Why?

You going back to work?

I don't know, but they're
starting to put on the pressure.

You know, there are other firms
in the world.

Places where you can find
a balance.

Have the job and say,
a social life.

My life's in New York, Cam.

Maggie and I are just friends,
that's all.

If you say so.

[laughs]

I say so.

-Yeah?
-Yeah.

Seriously?

You're a magician.

Oh no, no, no.

It's all the kids.

They're amazing.

They've swept him up
in the Christmas spirit.

Maybe so, but you're the one who
convinced him to get involved.

Trust me, we've tried.

It's definitely you.

¶

Wow, it's a sloth mug.

I, I love it.

[laughing]

Looks like everyone else
is getting what they wanted,

except me.

I wanted the pet rock,

but that's because our parents
never let us have a pet.

Oh. Poor thing.

Here.

Keep an eye on him, will ya?

Thanks bro.

Okay, up next is
my friend Hannah.

Say hi, Hannah.

Hi.

Their babysitter didn't show up,
so her husband

ran their gifts over and they're
joining via video chat.

I never miss a good
white elephant exchange.

Shake that little red
and silver box for me.

This one?

[rattling]

That one feels like the one.
You can open it.

It's a... white elephant.

[crowd laughs]

It's a little on-the-nose, but
definitely something I can use.

Lucas, I just had the best idea.

The best?

Careful, you don't
want to oversell.

The kids need to have
their parents at the party.

All the parents.

You want to run that idea
by Colonel Morrison?

Because I'm not going to.

Lucas, somebody doesn't have
to be physically at a party

in order to be at a party.

We video chat them in.

We video chat them in!

And they present
the gingerbread houses

to the kids live at the party.

Great.

We actually have to spend
five minutes with the Colonel.

[whispers]
She scares me.

She scares me.

That was fun, you know.

I was in need of a few
good laughs.

And I got my sloth mug,

which Ellen will inevitably
steal as soon as she gets home.

It's only a matter of time

before she starts stealing
my clothes.

You miss her?

I miss her.

I mean, this is an important
time with her dad.

But she's homesick,

and I don't want her to know
that I miss her, and... anyway.

Thank you for making it
all a little less hard, Lucas.

I didn't do anything except
infringe on your me time.

I mean, you had that list.

You were going to relax
and paint,

and I don't know, you were going
to reorganize your sock drawer?

That was on the agenda,
actually.

But it's good to prioritize.

What we're doing for these kids,
it's so important.

Provided they allow us
to actually do it.

I know that you enjoy
giving back,

but like I keep saying,

we have to do things that
bring us joy, personally.

I didn't do that,

and that's why I'm trying
to make up for lost time.

I know you're going to get
to everything on your list.

Once you're healed.

Yeah.

You know, but I have to say,
working with you and those kids,

physically building something?

I'm starting to feel
like myself again.

And none of that
would've happened

if you hadn't smacked
into me with that tree.

I guess maybe there
are no accidents.

Yeah, maybe not.

-Goodnight, Lucas.
-Goodnight.

¶

You two are really pushing it.

Just when we finished
coordinating time for them

to build these houses,
now you want to video chat?

Right, and I'm so sorry.

I know this is difficult
to coordinate

with the different time zones
and you got to...

Give me till tomorrow to get
this done.

-Ok.
-Thank you.

Is that everything,

or do you have another
brilliant idea?

I don't have...

-Do you have anything?
-No.

I don't have anything else
to say.

Hey.

Thanks for taking such good care
of my family.

Kits are mailed?

All mailed.

Thanks for holding down
the fort.

Well, I...

Not me. I can't build anything.

Glad you called in
for reinforcements, though.

...And these planks
make up the base.

Nope.

Read it again.

Oh.

You let the lawyer read
the blueprints?

I can't leave you people alone
for a minute.

Cam.

Let me take this group of
experienced builders right here,

put those walls together.

Hey kids?

Keep an eye on this one, okay?

Got to really watch him.

Hey, that plaster of Paris
needs to be painted

to make it look like
giant pieces of candy.

I was born for this task.

Yeah, well just don't eat it.

How come you're not helping,
buddy?

You were so excited about this.

I'm just sad my dad isn't here
to help us build it.

Yeah.

Yeah, that was your
special thing with him.

And I bet he'd be a great help.

But I could really use someone
with your experience

to be my sidekick today.

I'm a little incapacitated,
so truth be told,

you'd be doing me
a huge favour.

Look, I know it's not the same
as building with your dad,

but it's still going to be fun.

Okay.

I'll help you then.

You will?

Yeah.

What a relief.

Thanks.

¶

Thank you.

Yeah.

Argh! It's so heavy.

No, it's perfect.

[phone rings]

Oop.

[whispers]
Oh, it's Ellen.

Hi, honey.

I'm just finishing up
at the centre.

I miss you, Mom.

Oh, I know love.
I miss you too.

But it sounds like you're having
a really good time

from what your dad says.

It's fine, but I wish
I was there with you.

I just feel like I'm missing
so much.

I want to go to the party.

Oh honey, I know.

But... but this is your special
time with your dad, right?

And I don't want to give
anything away,

but I happen to know he's got
something pretty incredible

planned for you for Christmas.

Okay.

I love you so much.
Hang in there.

You okay?

Yeah. No. I don't know.

It just took everything in
my power not to get in the car

and go get Ellen.

I mean, she's with her father.
She's perfectly fine, but...

You wanted to fix it for her.

I wanted to fix it for her,
which is what I always do.

And I know I shouldn't do that,
but that's what I do.

You know what?
Let's trade places.

What? Your wrist!

What? If I can build
with one hand,

I can certainly drive a car.

Come on. Get out.

[laughs]
Wha?

Get out.

Really?

I definitely can't let you sit
around moping at home tonight.

Excuse me, I'm not moping.

I'm processing.

Well, I can't let you
do that either.

Where are we going?

You'll see.

¶

I give you Santa
and his sleigh.

[laughs]

Will she fly?

Sadly, no.

We were grounded
due to weather.

So I gave the reindeer
the night off.

Oh, that's nice.

Yeah. I mean, you wouldn't want
to get grounded due to a storm

this close to Christmas.

[laughs heartily]

No.

Hop in!

We'll take a nice leisurely ride
on the ground.

Sounds perfect.

I have to admit, when I saw
sleigh rides in the square,

I thought it was kind of odd
at first.

So what happened?

Well, you made me do Christmas.

[laughs]

And now you're hooked?

Yeah.

So what's Christmas been
like for you?

Like in past years?

Uh, mostly comprised of me and
my former fiancée having dinner

and then opening a few presents.

Then afterwards I'd go back
to the office.

Which is a big part of why she's
now known as my former fiancée.

Oh yeah.

Been there.

Yeah, you know us workaholics,
we are pretty good at
holding down a job,

but those relationships
can be tricky.

So have you dated
anyone since?

Yeah, I've had a few set-ups
by those friends who say

"bro, you gotta meet Cathy.
She's totally perfect for you."

Wow.

Cathy, huh?

Cathy sounds cute.

Yeah, and then you meet Cathy

and you have zero point zero
things in common.

Right.

And you swear to yourself,

I'm never going to do
that ever again.

[laughs]
Right.

I had people trying to set me up
on blind dates

before the ink on my divorce
papers was even dry.

I did go out with one guy,
but he said "supposebly",

which is very cute
when it's coming from

one of my second graders, but...

I think you got to just
let these things happen

in their own time.

Supposebly.

[laughs]
Exactly.

Like why can't things
happen organically?

Like, you know,
meeting somebody at a party,

or at work, or...

Or when she plows into you
with a Christmas tree?

[laughs]
Yeah.

I mean, you gotta give me that,
it was unique.

Ah, I give credit
where credit is due.

You know, I really was going
to be okay

spending Christmas all by
myself, but being here with you?

This is better.

Beats skiing any day.

Happy accidents.

Happy accidents.

Ho, ho, ho!

[laughs]

ride in the town square,k mee

and it just happened.

These things don't just happen.

They've been building all week,
and then boom,

the dam bursts.

It wasn't that dramatic.

It was a moment.

So what does this mean?

I don't know.

He hasn't mentioned leaving
in a while,

but he does live in New York.

But you're going with it?

I like him, and Ellen
really liked him.

So we clearly have some things
we need to talk about.

You so deserve this, Megs.

It's your turn.

All right you guys.

We've made good progress
over the last few days,

but we've got to get this done
in time for the party tomorrow.

So let's step it up!

It's coming together.

They're so happy.

It's the first gingerbread house
of my career.

But hopefully not the last.

Don't look now, but I think
you're an architect again.

[knocking]

Hey, come in.

Hey, I'm just getting these
canned goods together

for the food bank for
Christmas Eve dinner.

[gasps]
Guess what?

I got an email from
Colonel Morrison's assistant.

Everything's good to go
for the video chats.

Well that's,
that's fantastic news.

All right, now come with me.

I want to show you something.

Really?

Mm-hmm.

What is it?

It's a surprise.

But it's not your
Christmas present.

I got you something else.

Oh, you didn't have
to get me anything.

I wanted to.

But you'll have to wait
until Christmas

to find out what it is.

I don't make the rules.

But just to be clear, this
is not my Christmas present.

That's right.

You know what?
Cover your eyes.

Seriously?

Seriously.

-Oh, my gosh.
-I got you.

Oh, watch your step!

[yelps]
Thanks for the warning.

Now I got you.

Watch your step.

-Step up, step up, step up.
-This is crazy.

Okay.

[laughing]

Ooh!

Open your eyes.

I organized everything for you.

Oh, this is amazing.

Oh, that's so thoughtful.

Oh, thank you so much.

No, thank you.

For what?

Well, for helping me find
my passion again.

You know, I thought the problem
was missing out on experiences,

when what I really needed
was to get back to the basics.

And the kids helped you
find that.

I'm not talking only
about architecture.

¶

[sighs happily]

Hey.

What are you doing up and out
all by yourself?

Contemplating life, liberty,
pursuit of happiness.

So nothing too deep, then?

Nope.

Big day ahead.

Big day.

Yeah, I was just getting in
a jog

before Alyssa comes
to meet me.

She's going to help me with
the delivery for the food bank.

Mm.

It's so quiet here.

Peaceful.

Yeah.

No sirens blaring and horns
honking to keep you up at night?

Come on. To a New Yorker,
that's white noise.

Uh, I go back in a few days.

Yeah.

And then after the holidays
it's back to real life?

Yeah.

Real life.

My boss is putting the pressure
on for me to end my sabbatical.

Guess he doesn't like paying
for me not to be working.

Hmm?

I've accrued a lot
of vacation days.

Oh.

The nerve of some people.

[laughs]

I don't know what to say
to him.

I feel like I'm staring
into the unknown here.

You know, people always talk
about the unknown

like it's this big
scary anomaly,

but good things can happen
in the unknown too.

Like what?

Possibility.

Okay. I got to go home
and shower.

-Big day.
-Big day.

Watch out for those trees.

[laughs]

Coming out of nowhere.

The boutique had some
nice dresses.

We should go look after
we go to the food bank.

I need a new dress for tonight.

Yeah, I could use
a new dress too.

Thank you so much for all
your help with this.

It's the least I can do
after all that you've done

for the kids this year.

So, have you talked
to Lucas yet?

About what this means,
what you are?

It's like we're both waiting
for the other person

to say something definitive,
and it's not happening.

I think he's going to go back
to his old life in New York.

You don't know that.

People don't change
that quickly.

I mean, he says that he feels
like his old self again,

and his boss is pressuring him
for an answer.

You need to lay it all
out there, Mags.

Tell him how you feel, because
it may influence his decision.

You're right.

Okay, I'll talk to him.

After the party.

Good.

Now let's drop this food off
and get you a dress

that'll knock his socks off.

Oh, that's so great.

Oh, thank you so much.

Yes, a messenger service
would be perfect,

and then that way they can
just leave it on the porch

and I'll come grab it
when I get home.

Thank you.

[knocking at door]

[laughs]

What, this old thing?

That is neither old,
nor a thing.

You look incredible.

So do you.

Thank you.

Okay.

Now. Let's go make sure
those kids have a night

they'll never forget.

Let's do it.

[jazzy version of "O
Christmas Tree" plays]
¶

¶ O Christmas tree,
o Christmas tree ¶

¶ Thy leaves are so unchanging ¶

¶ O Christmas tree,
o Christmas tree ¶

¶ Thy leaves are so unchanging ¶

¶ Not only green
when summer's here ¶

¶ But also winter's cold
and drear ¶

¶ O Christmas tree,
o Christmas tree ¶

Wonderful!

¶

Hi mom!

Ellen, what are you
doing here?

It's Christmas Eve!

She wanted to come and I know
it's important to you,

so here we are.

And now I don't have
to cook tonight,

so it's a win-win.

[laughs]

Grace, Alex, that means
a lot to me.

I'm so happy you're here, Ellen.

I can't wait.

Are we all good?

Tell me this is going to work.

I mean, the IT guys are back
there getting all set up,

and I've checked in
with all the parents.

They're all at their posts
and ready to go.

Okay.

Five minute countdown.

All right.

I'm going to go check on Lucas.

You stay right here,
enjoy the show.

Ok.

Who knew building a gingerbread
house of all things

would have such an impact.

Okay, so you're
an architect again.

I know how to do it right
this time.

I won't make the same mistakes.

I'm glad you found what you were
looking for, buddy.

Are you sure about this?

I am.

I actually booked my flight
this morning.

Oh, you booked your flight.

Mm-hmm.

So you need me to come with you
to New York?

It'd be a fun road trip,
but I'll get it.

I'll just hire some movers.

You know, probably
cheap ones though

since I officially resigned
from the firm this morning.

Oh, look at you.

Go into business for yourself

and suddenly you can do
it all on your own.

With one hand.

Yeah, well just watch and learn,
my friend.

Watch and learn.

[clink]

¶

Alyssa: Thank you all very much
for joining us this evening.

And this year has been a really
special holiday camp for us.

During this special
season it's important
to think of those...

There you are.

You okay?

Listen, Lucas.

Ellen is here tonight, and I
don't want to confuse things

any further by her coming back
to this.

To us.

What do you mean?

Maggie, where is
this coming from?

It's not just me.

So I think it's better
for everyone involved

if we just say we're friends
and we leave it at that.

Okay.

Yeah, if that's
what you really want.

It's the way it has to be.

Okay, it's showtime.

Great.

¶

Hi, everybody.

Thank you so much for coming.

My name is Maggie O'Donnell,
and this is Lucas Cavelli.

He's a very prominent
New York architect.

He's been volunteering here
with me at the centre as well,

and he's, he's the...

the brains behind this gorgeous,
gigantic gingerbread house.

[applause]

Though the real design
and hard work came from

all of your children.

That's right.

We had the great pleasure
of spending the whole week

with your kids,

and we were incredibly inspired
by their spirit

and their optimism.

Especially in light of the fact
that many of them are away

from one or both of their
parents during this holiday.

And so, with the help
of the Colonel,

we secretly banded together
with your parents,

wherever they are in the world,

and we have a little surprise
for you.

Konnichiwa, Elliot.
Mom here.

Merry Christmas from Japan.

Here's my gingerbread house.

It's for you, baby.
I love you.

Elliot: I love you, mom!

Hi there Reed and Violette.

I really like that gingerbread
house you guys built,

but I think I can do one better.

Here in Germany, this is called
Lebkuchenhaus,

and I'm going to find a way
to get this back home to you.

Sure wish I could be there.

But know that I'm thinking
of you guys every minute.

Merry Christmas,
and I love you.

I love you too, Dad.

[applause]

Soldier: It's for you, baby.
I love you. I miss you.

Merry Christmas.

-Goodnight.
-Merry Christmas.

Thank you, Miss O'Donnell.

You're welcome, Reed.
Merry Christmas.

I'll see you next week.

-Bye, guys.
-Bye.

Here you go. Thanks.

It's going to be hard to top
this next year, Mom.

We'll need to start
brainstorming now.

Dad and Grace want
to help too.

Oh, great. The more
the merrier.

Have fun with your dad.
I'll see you tomorrow.

Thanks for coming.

I'll have her home by 5:00.

Merry Christmas.

Happy holidays,
thanks for coming.

Thanks.

My wrist is a bit sore.

I'm going to get a ride back
with my brother.

Yeah, that's fine.
We're basically done here.

For Joey.

Bye.

Goodnight.

It was a great night.

Thanks.

Bye.

What happened?

He's leaving.
I was right.

¶

¶ The snow is softly
falling outside ¶

¶ Each flake illuminated
by the twinkling lights ¶

¶

¶ So count all your stars
this Christmastime ¶

¶ It's a funny
little thing, ¶

¶ it's what we call life ¶

¶ When weather is... ¶

¶ keep it in your mind ¶

¶ And hold them close
this Christmastime ¶

¶ Ohhhhh ¶

I love all my presents.

Thank you so much,
Mom.

I'm so glad you're home.

I'm going to go check
on the turkey.

[knocking at door]

You never come
to the front door.

Yeah, um...

I came to say goodbye.

Cam's waiting for me in the car.

I called my doctor and he gave
me the clear to fly

because I'm feeling okay, so...

So you're, you're leaving.

[whispers]
Yeah.

Ellen, uh, you're home.

I've got a little Christmas
present here for you.

I have something
for you too.

Is it my chocolate,
by chance?

Four different kinds.

Excellent.

Thank you for remembering.

Go on, open it.

It's game bucks for Major Quest.
I hear that that's a big thing.

Yes, thank you so much.

I know exactly what I want
to use this for.

-Thank you!
-Your welcome.

I have this for you too.

You can open it later.

Um, same.

Oh, thanks.

Good luck, Maggie.

I just want to say that...

[sighs]

Thanks again, for everything.

Merry Christmas, Lucas.

Merry Christmas.

Bye.

[sighs]

[playing "Deck the Halls"]
¶

Those lessons are really
paying off.

I'm going to go check
on the turkey.

¶

Dinner will be ready
in about 30 minutes.

Good, I'm starving.

Open your gift from Lucas.

I'm already using mine.

[sighs]

He gave you that
for Christmas?

Oh?

It's tickets to Paris.

Wow.

I wish he wasn't leaving.
I really like him.

Yeah.

Me too.

You like, like him like him?

Would that be okay?

I'm just going to make a really
quick phone call.

Ah, Lucas.

When you get this message,
could you give me a call back?

It's, it's really important that
you call me before you leave.

¶

A trip to Paris?

I've been your best friend
for two decades

and I think I got a watch.

Once!

She helped me a lot.

I just wanted to return
the favour.

Well, why didn't you tell her
how you feel?

You were about to uproot
your entire life.

You know, she broke things off
before I had the chance.

I guess it wasn't meant to be.

As they say,
there are no accidents.

Well, what about your job?
You quit.

Yeah, maybe
he'll let me un-quit?

Well, don't you want to at least
see what she got you?

[exhales]

I can't believe
she got me this.

I have been looking
for this book for years.

James Smith Maxwell.

The home builder?

Huh.

Wow.

Back to the basics.

What?

Stop the car.

Excuse me?

Stop the car!

Stop the car!!

Oh, we're going back?

Yeah.

Yeah.

Yeah. We're going back.

Oh baby.

[laughs]

Ready?

¶

[doorbell rings]

You got my message?

No.

What message?

I... I... I got this.

Yeah, the guy at the bookstore
had to call all his contacts.

I was pretty annoying,
but it was effective.

You know, opening this book
after all these years,

it's so clear to me why
this week was so invigorating.

Building the house with you
and those kids.

I don't want to build
skyscrapers,

I never did.

But what about your job?

I resigned from
the firm yesterday.

But you bought a plane ticket.

I heard you talking to Cam.

You misunderstood, Maggie.

I want to build homes, and I had
decided to do it here, near you.

Well, I would love that.

[laughs]

About Ellen, I...

It was never about Ellen.

So...

We're good?

[laughing]

Oh, oh, my wrist!

Oh, sorry, sorry.

It's okay.

[laughs]

By the way, who taught you
to dress?

I mean, that sweater.
Oof.

Are you kidding me?

I love this sweater.

¶

You ever seen the Eiffel Tower?

Want to come with us?

I would love to.

Hey Ellen?

Put another plate
on the table.

We've got company.

¶

¶

¶

¶

¶