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Carrie, there's a box of returns in the back.

Can you strip the covers?

I already took care of it.

Of course you did, thank you.

Barbara Kirkland's agent should be calling

about Christmas Eve, can you confirm her hotel for me?

No problem.

I've got Saturday story time at the rec center but,

I'll be back to cover your lunch.

Thanks, Darcy!

I'll see you soon Bailey, be a good boy.

(dog barks)

-Oh, wow... -Little more to the left--

Mrs. Henley, those halls are decked.

Well you hired me to decorate the store

and I take my job very seriously.

Now, Matthew here has specific instructions.

And I'll be back on Wednesday morning

to install the five golden rings.

Wow, you're trusting Matthew

with the windows for the three days, I'm impressed.

You know, she's still going to drive by and check my work.

That's true, I will.

So when does your nephew get into town?

His train gets in at 2:30, I am so excited!

I'm his favorite aunt, you know.

How could you not be?

We have a very special surprise today.

We are going to combine story time with art class.

Ms. Archer here is going to read a little story to us,

and then she's going to help us make these.

-Mr. Harris? -Yes, Isabella.

Is Ms. Archer your girlfriend?

(children wooing and giggling)

You know, you can be friends with someone

without being boyfriend and girlfriend.

Yes, sir.

So, is she your girlfriend?

Yes, she is.

(children wooing)

So, are you going to get married?

All right, well take it away Ms. Archer!

Okay...

Mrs. Henley's brother is in the air force

and his wife is an army translator.

Her deployment got moved up before his ended,

and Mrs. Henley is the family's care plan,

so her nephew, Marcus, is spending the holidays with her.

It's gotta be hard for a kid.

Spending the holidays without his parents?

I know.

You know, I'm picking up some volunteer shifts

while school is out.

Maybe he could hang out with me?

I'm sure Mrs. Henley would appreciate that.

Aiden, Darcy.

Oh, hi Glenda!

I wanted you to meet Susan.

She and her husband just moved into my building,

and she's already signed up for the bingo tournament.

Watch out, those bingo players mean business.

(laughing)

Darcy and Aiden both volunteer for us.

Aiden teaches art classes and Darcy leads our story time.

Darcy's been coming here since she was a little girl.

Is that so?

Everything I know about basketball and crafting,

I learned at the Liberty Rec Center.

Oh that's wonderful, my grandkids will love coming here.

We look forward to meeting them.

-Bye. -Buh-bye.

I thought you said you were terrible at basketball.

I am - I learned that here.

So we still on for decorating your tree tonight?

Oh, you bet!

We got your place ready for Christmas,

now I need to catch up.

Thanks for today, by the way.

I know how busy you are this time of year.

Oh Aiden, a room full of paper snowflakes,

makes my heart melt.

Marcus, I wish you would let me help you

with one of those bags.

It's okay Aunt Monica, I've got it.

Okay, well we can drop these at my apartment

and then go do something fun.

You could see the tree at City Hall.

Maybe later.

Okay, you've had a long trip.

We could just stay in, let you get settled.

Cool.

Hi, this is Darcy Archer from Chaucer's Bookstore.

I've been trying to speak to someone about a donation drive

we're doing at the Liberty Rec Center, and I wanted to...

Well, yes, it's kind of a thing all the businesses

in the area are doing, so I was hoping...

Right.

Well, thanks anyway.

Something wrong?

Books Books Books won't participate

in the donation drive!

I know they're our competition but, it seems like we should

all work together for a good cause, right?

I think you're better off without them.

I have a friend who worked there.

She said when you order a 12-ounce hot chocolate,

they only give you nine ounces, then cover the rest

with whipped cream so you don't notice.

That is so sneaky!

I don't know how those people sleep at night.

Marcus?

You need help unpacking?

No, ma'am.

Want something to eat?

I'm not really that hungry right now.

Are you sure? I made macaroni and cheese

and your mom says that that's your favorite.

No, I'm good.

Sure.

But I'm going to make you a plate.

Just in case you change your mind.

Thanks.

Okay.

(door knocking)

Hi! Hi Bailey!

Somebody order a pizza and a big bag of Christmas?

Me!

(dog barks)

You excited about your checkup tomorrow?

Are people normally excited to visit their doctors?

Well, let me see.

A year ago you banged your head and lost your memory

when someone hit you on their bicycle.

"Someone" hit me?

Well that part's... not important.

Except that someone turned out

to be the best thing that ever happened to me.

When you put it like that, I guess it is important.

So maybe this visit to the neurologist is more like...

A victory lap.

Precisely!

In that case, I'm very excited.

Oh, did you find that other box of decorations?

No, but I did find this in the closet.

It says Christmas village?

I don't put that out.

Oh, okay.

Should I put it back?

You could just, leave it off to the side

and I'll take care of it later.

Cool.

Just a keepsake of my mom's.

So it's like, a decoration or something?

You know what?

I'm just going to go ahead and put it away now.

Okay, the Christmas village is kind of a thing.

Do you want to talk about it?

Yes.

I would like to share this with you.

So, my mother was from a small town in Maine, and,

she wasn't able to get home very often.

So, my dad was this amazing woodworker.

Every few years, she never knew quite when to expect it,

he would make her a building from her hometown,

working from photos.

That way, she always had a little piece of home.

That's beautiful.

Like this.

The South Dublin Public Library where Lauren Armstrong

first discovered "Pride and Prejudice."

And she was forever changed.

Mmm-hmm.

I have so many little reminders from my parents,

but this...

This is them.

Everything I loved and admired about their relationship,

the respect they had for each other's histories,

everything that made them who they were.

They sound like an incredible couple.

I guess I tried to keep this memory

just to myself, to...

I don't know, protect it?

Until I met you, and I wanted you to know them better.

Well, that say that memories grow stronger

when you share them.

-That is very wise. -Thank you.

Unfortunately I cannot take the credit,

that was advice from my neurologist.

Sleep well, baby boy.

Okay, so I'll meet you at the hospital at 3?

You know it's just a checkup, so if you're too busy,

I completely understand.

Victory lap, remember?

I do remember.

And that's what makes it a victory lap.

Darcy, Aiden, thank goodness I caught you two.

Are you okay?

I could be better, how do you talk to an 11 year old?

Mrs. Henley, I ask myself that question every day.

Marcus hasn't said two words since he got here.

He's had a lot thrown at him all at once.

Maybe just give him some time?

Maybe we could think of something fun

we could all do together?

Oh, that's a great idea!

Do you ice skate, Mrs. Henley?

I'm a dancer!

They never let us near the ice.

Hi!

Oh, well look who's up.

You have a dog!

Hi!

Marcus, these are my friends.

This is Miss Archer.

-Hi. -Hi.

And Mr. Harris.

-Very nice to meet you. -Nice to meet you.

And this, this is Bailey.

(dog barks)

Hi, Bailey.

You know, we were just about to go for a little walk.

Would you two like to join us?

Can we, Aunt Monica?

Of course! Go get dressed.

Yes!

Thank you, thank you Bailey.

It's such a relief to see Marcus smiling.

I really want to try and make this Christmas special for him.

I wish I had not decorated my tree already.

Your tree's been up since Thanksgiving.

And this is the first time I wish I had waited.

Whoa!

That's a big tree...

That's a Liberty Rec Center Christmas tree.

Everyone from the neighborhood brings an ornament,

and we all decorate it together.

We can come help if you like.

Yeah, I can do that.

There's our favorite nurse.

Aiden and Darcy!

Hi Nancy!

What are you guys doing here?

One year checkup!

-A year already! -Hard to believe, huh?

And he passed with flying colors.

And work is going well? No cause for concern?

No, everything's great.

Love my school, love my new apartment.

Nancy, are you checking my pupils right now?

I'm sorry!

Force of habit.

Darcy, be honest: how's his memory?

He remembers everything except where he puts his keys.

Well then, you're officially doing

as well as the rest of us, Aiden.

Nancy, will we see you at Chaucer's on Christmas Eve?

It's my new tradition.

You know, you guys are legendary at the department of neurology.

Is that so?

Absolutely! It's how I reassure my patients.

The bad news, you have a concussion.

But the good news, you might meet somebody nice.

Great to see you.

-Bye guys! -Bye.

(holiday music)

Darcy, Aiden, over here!

Hi!

Bailey!

Hi!

We really are just Bailey's people, aren't we?

Are you just realizing that now?

So, Marcus and I went through

all of my extra ornaments this afternoon

and came up with the perfect selections.

In my art class, I made these bird seed ornaments.

Ooooh!

So the birds can have a Merry Christmas too?

That's the idea.

What do you think Marcus, should we find it a spot?

Yeah!

[Crowd] Three... two... one...

(cheering and applauding)

Whoa!

(dog barks)

Wow!

I'm sorry Darcy wasn't able to join us for dinner.

Oh well, like she said, the store being too busy

for her to leave is a pretty good problem to have.

That's true.

So you never knew about this Christmas village?

Well, I had seen it of course.

But Darcy only ever told me that her father made it.

I never heard the story.

The attention to detail.

I can see why she loved it so much.

But she shared the story with you.

Which is a wonderful step forward.

(front door opens)

Ah, here we are!

Oh Marcus, you are in for a treat!

Oh, Luigi my love, that looks divine!

Darcy!

-Glenda, hi! -Darcy, I'm sorry.

I didn't know who else to talk to.

I took a walk to cool my head and before I knew it,

I was here.

What happened, what's wrong?

You're not going to like this...

So, Aiden here is trying to come up with ways

to bring Darcy a little extra joy this Christmas.

Bravo! Very good!

I don't know anyone who helps others more than Darcy.

Okay, well thanks guys for adding the pressure.

Aiden, you're a marvelous artist.

Why don't you just make her something?

How about you make a second village?

What do you mean?

Well, how about a Christmas village

with all of her favorite places?

That way, the other one won't be as bittersweet,

and will kind of fit together.

Huh!

That's actually not a bad idea.

It's a marvelous idea, Marcus!

A companion village.

Yeah, and it's fitting if you think about it.

I mean last year, Darcy moved heaven and earth

to help me restore my memories.

This year, I'll honor hers.

(exclaims happily)

(door closing)

[Mrs. Henley] Darcy, you made it.

You okay?

No.

They're shutting down the Liberty Rec Center.

I can't believe that they would sell a rec center.

Shouldn't there be some kind of

a city council vote, or something?

That property has been in David Pierce's family

for three generations.

I can't believe he's selling it!

I've got a lifetime of memories in that place.

My first dance class was at Liberty Rec!

I took my English lessons there.

And the Christmas party, oh Aiden!

It's the best.

Something must be done.

Why don't you just talk to him?

When was the last time you saw David Pierce

at the rec center?

He has a real estate office downtown.

His secretary goes to my church.

Then we'll go to him.

I know I haven't lived here as long as you,

but Philly is my home now, too.

I think we need to show some fight here.

Who's in?

(telephone ringing)

Good morning, Pierce Properties. This is Sheryl.

Hey Sheryl,

it is Monica Henley and I need a tiny favor.

And just like that,

we've got an appointment tomorrow morning.

Never underestimate the power of Mrs. Henley's connections.

Liberty Rec, help is on the way.

Oh, and speaking of the Liberty Rec Center,

Chef Shannon needs judges for a Christmas cookie contest

tomorrow morning for her kid's baking class

and she thought we'd be perfect for it.

Are we?

Of course.

You're an art teacher.

You can judge the shape, use of color, overall aesthetic.

And you?

I just really like cookies.

You're right, we are perfect.

I want to judge a Christmas cookie contest.

Oh, and what are your qualifications?

I'm a kid?

-You're hired! -Yes!

Oh!

(children laughing)

So tell me, what's our strategy with David Pierce?

I'm still thinking on it.

Say, you don't happen to have a secret stash

of a whole bunch of money you've never mentioned before?

That's a very common assumption about public school teachers.

Unfortunately, no.

Okay then, that means

we're going for the sentimental vote.

We can work with that.

Can we go see the snow maze?

-Of course! -Come on!

Tag! You're it!

♪ Christmas music ♪

Marco!

Polo!

Marco!

(loud yelp)

Seniorina!

Your coffee cans!

Oh Luigi, thank you!

Hello, dear.

Monica, mia belleza.

Oh, stop that, my hands are a mess!

Darcy, I would have happily brought you some bread pans.

Oh, no, it's gotta be a coffee can.

That's how Aiden's mother made it every Christmas.

There's no improving your mama's model, ah?

Luigi, you can make yourself useful

by prepping those cans.

So how about you, Mrs. Henley?

Did your mother have a specialty at Christmas time?

My mother made the only fruitcake I liked.

I tried to recreate it for years until I just threw in the towel.

Some magicians just don't share their secrets.

But ah, the flavor!

Lives in my memory.

So, you can do this right?

Sure going to try.

Man, this is just amazing.

What is?

Well, you know how people might say

that something you do is just like your mom or your dad?

Unfortunately, yes.

Okay well, this is just like that,

but the other way around.

All the attention and care to detail

in each one of these things, it's just like Darcy.

Everything I love about her, now I know where it came from.

And that's amazing.

This is starting to sound like a mushy love story.

Sorry, kid!

It was bound to happen eventually.

Mmm, these turned out so great.

Perfecto, Darcy!

Aiden said his mom used to make these

for all of his teachers.

I thought I'd make a few more, so he could give them out.

Such a thoughtful gift, ah?

I know how much her doing that meant to him.

Those little gestures are always the memories

that stay with us, don't you think?

I do!

Well, I better get going.

I'm covering the closing shift at the store.

Thanks for your help, you two.

Bye!

Bye.

I thought one of those loaves would be for us.

(door knocking)

-Hey! -Hi.

Come in.

I have to get to the store.

But I made you a little something.

Whatcha got there?

You made my mom's bread.

I got the recipe from your dad.

I know it's not the same, but--

I haven't smelled that in years.

I never realized how much I associate

that smell with Christmas.

Darcy, this is wonderful.

Thank you.

You're so very welcome.

It's my first book.

Well congratulations, that's a big deal!

It's a comprehensive overview of the creation

and implementation of the worldwide web.

"A History of Information Management."

Yep, I went through so many titles.

Before you landed on that one?

Mmm-hmm.

Well, I admire your initiative, Mr. Young.

Since I live in the neighborhood,

I was wondering if I could have

the signing here at Chaucer's.

I bet we can make that happen.

Let's look at the calendar

once we make it through the holidays.

For now, why don't we start with four copies,

and we'll take it from there.

This is really exciting!

Of course it is, it's your first book.

Matthew, can you get a receiving form for Mr. Young?

Of course.

Darcy, sorry I opened a delivery for you.

I thought it part of the store shipment.

Oh, let me see.

It's Aiden's Christmas present.

First edition, signed.

I got into a real bidding war for this online.

"Found in the Street."

It's his favorite book, by his favorite author

and the title is just too perfect, because--

You met when you found him in the street.

Precisely.

That's so sweet.

Any idea what he's getting you?

No idea, but I'd like to see him top this.

Not that it's a competition, but if it were,

I'd clearly be the frontrunner!

(door knocking)

Coming!

-Good morning! -Good morning.

Well, we... brought you breakfast!

Just to check up on you.

Thank you very much.

I wish I had better news for you.

I think maybe I was a little overambitious here.

What do you mean?

Well, I'm not really that experienced

with woodworking turns out.

And with just over a week until Christmas,

I think I might be able to finish one of these, maybe.

It's a pretty good start, right?

It's more than enough.

We'll wrap it beautifully and make it very special.

She'll love it!

But that's not what you wanted.

I know.

And you wanted to build the entire village.

I did, but, I mean with just eight days,

when I look at all this work--

What if you had to do it?

Marcus...

Sorry, it's just,

if you had to do it in eight days,

how would you pull it off?

Actually...

Take a look at this.

Isn't that nice?

So, you're the world's greatest art teacher?

The father of one of my students made this for me.

He runs a precision cutting company.

They make awards and signs and things like that.

So anyway, what I'm thinking is,

if I can design the buildings

and just have him cut everything,

than all we need to do is assemble and paint.

I think we can manage that in a week.

I knew you could figure it out.

Of course he can figure it out.

He's the world's greatest art teacher,

with a plaque to prove it!

(cell phone ringing)

Oh, this is my baby brother.

Oh Sam, it's so good to see your face.

Hey, Monica.

Dad!

There's my guy. What's goin' on?

Well, I'm helping Aunt Monica's friend

build a whole village.

Wow, sounds like a big job.

Yeah, and I'm judging a cookie contest.

Oh, and you have to meet this dog, his name's Bailey.

See? Isn't he precious?

An eggnog flavored sugar cookie

with a twist of ginger.

A bold choice!

Excellent use of sprinkles.

The snowflake shape really seals the deal for me.

Interesting, and why is that?

I like it when my food

is shaped like other things, you know?

Hmm, judge Marcus with a compelling argument.

-I think we have a winner. -Yeah, go ahead.

And here you go.

(cheering and applauding)

This place is great.

I'm so glad you think so.

You know, I heard your dad used to come here

when he was your age.

-Really? -Mmm-hmm.

This place is that old?

Even older.

Wow.

So, have you been having fun hanging out

with Aiden and Bailey?

-Yeah. -Mmm-hmm.

What have you been up to?

That is privileged information, Darcy.

And you know that!

Is this about my Christmas present?

Aunt Monica and I swore to secrecy.

So please, no more questions, okay?

Mrs. Henley knows about it, too?

Oh darn, I've said too much.

What is it? Is it really good?

Am I going to cry?

I can't handle the pressure.

How was the cookie contest?

I think my met my cookie quota for the season.

I just have to grab my blazer.

Aiden and I have a meeting downtown.

Hi Darcy.

Hi Pat!

Aiden Harris, this is Pat Young.

-Hi. -He just wrote his first book.

-Congratulations! -Thanks.

I brought a few more copies, just in case you needed them.

I told Mr. Young we still have those four in stock,

but we will let him know as soon as we need more.

Great, right.

Well, thank you.

Pat, wait.

You know, sometimes first time authors just...

Need that extra little push.

Maybe we could keep a few copies,

put them on display, maybe make it a staff pick?

That sounds great, Darcy!

Thanks!

Of course.

Are you nervous?

Nope, I'm determined.

Ms. Archer, Mr. Harris, he'll see you now.

So, just to recap.

On the one hand, I have a very, very generous offer

that would not only bring new residential and retail space

to the Northern Liberty's neighborhood,

but would also free me of the obligation

of maintaining a century-old historic building.

On the other hand, we have your idea.

Which is effectively, what, exactly?

Umm, don't do that?

So I'd make no money?

No.

And I would still have to maintain the building?

Yes!

Why would I do that?

Because Liberty Rec Center is where generations

of our community have gathered, Mr. Pierce.

And even if you can't attach a dollar amount

to history and tradition, it does have value.

I agree.

That's why I hung onto Liberty Rec

for far longer than it made any economic sense.

Your interest in the center, it's appreciated,

and it's very sweet.

Excuse me sir, but with all due respect,

Darcy's interests are far from sweet.

She lives and runs a business in that neighborhood

and because of that, she volunteers at the center,

she runs a donation drive,

she makes an investment in her community.

Darcy understands what really matters here.

And I hope you think about that

while you're off enjoying the spoils

of your very, very generous offer.

I'm afraid my answer is no.

Well, we suspected as much.

Thank you for your time.

The Christmas party is on the 23rd.

Will you wait to announce the sale until then?

Let everyone enjoy it?

Sure.

Merry Christmas.

Merry Christmas.

(door knocking)

-Hi. -Hi.

Is Darcy here?

No, she's closing up shop tonight.

Well...

Luigi made some pasta carbonara, are you in?

Mrs. Henley, are you using food as an excuse

to check on my progress again?

I am.

Well then what're you waiting for, come on in.

Okay, so I'm using a slightly different type

of wood now, and a different method.

So, they won't exactly like her dad's.

Oh, I think that's good.

You're not trying to recreate a moment

she shared with someone else.

You're taking inspiration from that,

and making it uniquely yours.

I like that.

(cell phone vibrating)

Excuse me.

Hey there.

Hey!

I just got home, you in?

Yeah, we're here.

Okay great, I'll come down.

No!

No don't do that, you've had a long day.

How about Bailey and I come to you?

Yeah, that's fine.

Great!

So, what did you do with the rest of your day?

I just hung out with Marcus a bit.

Oh, good! What did you do?

Wish I could say, top secret mission.

Mmm, I heard about that.

He actually told me what you're giving me.

Wow!

You know my sister used to try

to pull that trick when we were kids.

Didn't work for her, either.

Well whatever it is,

I'm just glad you're able to include Marcus.

I want him to have a good Christmas.

Try to keep some of the traditions

that he has with his mom and dad.

I thought a lot about what you said

to David Pierce today, and it's so true.

Memories are priceless, but they certainly have value.

Got to find ways to preserve them.

That's it!

What is?

We might not be able to buy the Rec Center,

but maybe we could preserve it.

What do you mean?

A century-old historic building, that's what he called it.

And I think other people should call it that, too.

I'm not entirely sure what you're thinking,

but I am 100% on board. (dog barking)

Apparently, so is Bailey.

May I help you?

We were looking for Carolyn Cho?

And you found her.

Hi, I'm Darcy Archer, I called earlier to inquire

about the process of declaring a historical landmark.

Of course, the Liberty Rec Center.

That's the one.

And here's the documentation that you asked for.

Wonderful, we'll take a look.

And have you been in contact with the owner?

Actually, we were just in his office but,

he wasn't in yet.

Okay, well we can get started on the process.

Please, have a seat.

Good morning, Mr. Pierce.

Good morning, Sheryl.

What in the world?

It's a surprise from the art class

at the Liberty Rec Center.

w that they're thinking of you.

Uh-huh...

(telephone ringing)

Mom!

Hi, honey!

I miss you so much.

I miss you, too!

We love you Vanessa!

I love you!

Are you having fun with Aunt Monica?

I'm part of a top secret organization.

Oh, really?

Well that makes two of us.

♪ ♪ ♪

Does this look like Mrs. Henley to you?

Yeah, I can see that.

I should do better than a scarf.

I want something as unique as she is.

So now you're adding find the perfect Christmas gift

to your list.

What list?

Darcy, you have a list!

You have a very long list, your list makes me tired.

I just worry sometimes that maybe you take on too much.

In the past, the holidays have been a tricky time for me.

But last Christmas, I was busy helping you,

and applying for a new job, and things were easier.

So, lesson learned, got to keep my hands busy.

Is that the lesson?

Clearly you don't think so.

Okay, let me try that again.

-Hi. -Hi.

I love you.

And if there's anything that I can do

to make your life a little bit easier,

I am happy to help.

Thank you.

I'm busy, but not overwhelmed, I promise.

Okay, but my offer still stands.

Thank you. For being you.

I should get back to the store.

Let me walk you.

No, you're halfway home.

You sure?

Yeah! I'll see you tonight.

Okay.

I have more questions about the time you had amnesia.

People usually do.

What's the first thing you remember doing?

The first thing I remember when I woke up

was asking for Bailey.

That makes a lot of sense.

Bailey's awesome.

Yes, he is.

My dad said I can get a dog when I'm 12 and a half.

That's very specific.

Well yeah, that's when his enlistment ends.

Oh, and then we can be

all in the same house, at the same time.

Well, you know you're more than welcome

to visit Bailey whenever you want.

And you're welcome to come visit my dog

when I'm 12 and a half.

It's a deal.

(door knocking)

It's Darcy!

Cover that up!

I can't, the paint's not dry!

-Hey, sweetheart! -Hi!

Wow, good to see you too!

What are you doing home so early?

I forgot my laptop,

so I had to come back and pick it up.

I'm so glad I got to see you.

May I come in?

How come?

So we're not standing in the hallway.

(laughs uneasily) You know what?

Why don't we go for a walk?

Yeah, I'm just going to grab my coat

and then we can go for a walk.

Actually forget about my coat, let's just go.

This is about my Christmas present again, isn't it?

Maybe.

Aiden, I'm getting a little concerned here.

We set a gift budget.

I have not exceeded our budget.

I feel like that's a technicality.

Time will tell.

Okay, fine.

I'll let you back to your top secret mission.

Thank you.

Coast is clear.

(sigh of relief) That was so stressful.

Nice job with the cookies and milk.

Where is everything?

If I were you, I really wouldn't turn on the oven.

Mail call!

Thanks, Carrie.

Something you might want to see.

Looks like Christmas Eve at Books Books Books

is going to be something else.

Oh, wow!

They're really going all out this year.

They're going to have a candy cane forest.

I don't know what that is.

Whatever it is, I'm sure it will look good in a selfie.

People have no respect for tradition anymore.

I like tradition.

So do I.

I just wish it didn't feel like such an uphill battle.

No!

Oooh! (coughing)

(cell phone vibrating)

Kind of cold night to be up here, huh?

Well, my apartment smells like smoke.

Just waiting for the air to clear.

And why does your apartment smell like smoke?

Well, you were so happy when I gave you the bread,

I thought I'd make another batch.

Maybe I should've quit while I was ahead.

It's good to know your limits.

I know.

That meant so much to you.

Darcy, honoring a memory

doesn't mean you have to replicate it exactly.

We might not save the rec center.

We might not, but that does not diminish

all the memories that came before.

No, it doesn't.

You know that picture you have of us building a life together?

Yeah.

I hope it's in the not too distant future, too.

There you go, all set.

Oh, so everyone on staff came up with great ideas.

We are going to do a hot cocoa bar,

and Matt is creating postcards to send to Santa.

But won't Santa's sleigh

already be packed for Christmas Eve?

Well, the postcards aren't asking for anything.

They're saying thanks and, you know,

have a great night at work.

Very thoughtful.

Hey guys, all finished.

Nce job Marcus, let me see these.

Wow.

So now why'd you make three different sized collars?

Well, one is for Bailey, and the other two

are for Bailey's friends at the dog park.

What a great idea!

-There you go! -Thanks.

Aiden, Darcy, glad you're both here.

I can't believe it! It's a Christmas miracle.

Glenda, what happened?

The Philadelphia Society for Historic Preservation

has put the building under review

as a possible historic site.

Oh, that's great news!

If it's designated, it becomes a city landmark.

It can't be torn down or rezoned.

And, it can't be sold while it's under review.

That's wonderful!

How did David Pierce take the news?

Not well at all.

But he did, however, tell me to thank your class.

For the Christmas decorations.

We will be sure to let the kids know.

Thank you, Glenda.

I have an idea.

One of many, I'm sure.

Come.

So what if we made David Pierce the guest of honor

at the Christmas party?

Honor all the years his family has invested in the community.

Maybe give him a framed certificate?

People love framed certificates.

So we're going for guilt?

I prefer to think of it as accentuating the positive.

I like the way you think.

(door knocking)

Knock knock!

Do I have jewelry options?

That's the funniest question you have ever asked me.

Well, I got a new dress for the Christmas party

at the Rec Center, and I just need a little something.

You know, ever since Aiden shared the story

behind your Christmas village,

it just warms my heart every time I see it.

It does the same for me.

Even if it's still a little--

Bittersweet.

The thing is, a few months before their accident,

my dad told me he was making the house I grew up in.

He wanted there to be a landmark all three of us shared.

And that meant so much because, well,

we don't often think of ourselves as being

a part of our parents' love story.

Even though, clearly we are.

And he was never able to make it.

It's always felt a little incomplete.

You know, my husband Gerald,

oh, he loved Christmas!

The year I lost him, I didn't even put up a tree.

Can you imagine?

Me, without a Christmas tree?

When did things change?

It was the first Christmas,

and sitting there in the apartment

without a twinkling light in sight,

I realized how sad Gerald would be

if he saw that, you know?

The best way to honor him and the life we had

was to bring beauty and happiness out into the world.

And so I dragged out all of my decorations,

got a carload of new ones,

and set out to generate more joy.

You do that so beautifully.

Well, thank you.

Here, try this cocktail ring.

Okay!

Oh, look at that, a perfect fit!

And this is a perfect fit as well.

You know Darcy, the love we have in our lives,

made us who we are.

And there's joy to be found in sharing those memories.

Well, nobody understands the importance of memories

quite like Aiden.

Mmm, that's undeniable!

Let's check out how good you look in statement jewelry.

This isn't statement jewelry, this is exclamation jewelry.

Well, that's even better.

(door knocking)

It's Mrs. Henley!

Come in!

Aiden!

I think I have great news!

Turns out there's a missing piece!

♪ ♪ ♪

You said you were just here as a customer today.

And you said you were taking the day off,

and here we are!

So, Marcus and I are going to a matinee performance

of, "The Nutcracker" this afternoon.

Ooh!

Aunt Monica said there would be a battle.

Is there really?

There is a sword fight with a giant rat.

-Really? -Mmm-hmm.

Cool!

Nicely done.

So, whatcha got there Marcus?

Aunt Monica bought me a book called Mad Libs

where you take words and make them into a funny story.

I used to love those.

You want to try one?

-Absolutely. -Okay.

-Favorite color? -Green.

-An animal? -Rabbit.

A number larger than 10?

One thousand.

The address of the place you grew up in?

Really?

That's what it says.

417 Lexington Avenue.

Come on!

(cell phone vibrating)

Nice work, Marcus!

Well, how did I do?

You look pretty!

Thank you.

And you look very handsome.

You need some help with that tie?

-Maybe. -Okay.

I used to do this for your uncle Gerald.

He would pretend that he needed my help.

It was his way of checking in with me

before we went somewhere special.

I miss my mom and dad.

Oh sweetheart, I know you do.

But if I can't spend it with them,

I'm happy I can spend it with you.

I am very happy you're here,

and I know that Aiden is happy you're here,

and Luigi, and Darcy--

(together) And Bailey!

Your friends are pretty awesome.

Thank you, but they're more than just my friends.

You know you start life with the family that you're given,

your parents, your aunts, your uncles.

But with time, there's another family that you choose.

And each family is a treasure.

And now, you, are part of both my families.

Well!

Aren't we a stunning pair?

Great, so the delivery will be here at 5:00 p.m.

-Great. -Yeah!

-I like those ones. -Yeah.

Darcy Archer, I hear that you took a little trip

to The Society for Historic Preservation!

.

This was intentional!

Well of course it was intentional.

We wanted to extend the courtesy

of following up on what you told us.

What are you talking about? What did I tell you?

That you were saddled

with the responsibility of a century-old building.

So, Aiden and I thought, wow!

100 years!

The Pierce family really should be acknowledged

for all those years of care.

And, now you will be.

Look Darcy, you might slow down the sale,

but you won't stop it.

Everyday you don't sell,

is another day you might reconsider.

That's my staff pick this month.

You're selling this book?

It's exhaustively researched,

and we always try to support Philadelphia authors.

(camera snap)

You sure this is the right place?

Yeah, I think so.

I seem to remember a picture of Darcy

right on that front porch.

Excuse me, young man,

why are you taking pictures of my house?

I am so sorry, I could explain.

Here, don't worry, I got this.

-You sure? -Yeah.

Hello ma'am, Merry Christmas.

Well, Merry Christmas to you.

My name is Marcus, what's yours?

Hi Marcus, I'm Jo Howarth.

It's nice to meet you.

I should've asked permission

before taking pictures of your house, I do apologize.

I'm Aiden Harris--

And this is Bailey.

Well, hello Bailey!

My friend Darcy used to live in this house

and Aiden's going to make a miniature version of it,

so we can give it to her for Christmas.

Is that so?

What inspired that?

Darcy's father used to make these miniatures

of all the important family landmarks,

but he never made one of this house.

So, we thought we'd help and try completing the collection.

He never made one?

Well he intended to, he just...

Well, he passed away several years ago.

You know, it's a little chilly out here.

Why don't we continue this conversation inside?

You can bring Bailey. Come on.

Nice job disarming Mrs. Howarth.

I should be a detective.

Pretty good at this.

I moved in about three years ago.

Thank you.

It's a good house.

You can tell when someone's loved a place, you know.

There's a little wood shop in the basement.

Not anything I would use, but my grandson loves it.

And a few summers back, he was down there

and underneath the work bench,

he found a small wrapped gift.

Heaven knows how long it had been down there.

It was clearly someone's hiding place,

so we opened it, and found, this!

I kept it on display in my dining room.

Isn't it handsome?

He made it.

It would appear he did.

And I'm so pleased to know it has a rightful home.

I can't believe our luck!

Aunt Monica says,

"When you set out to find goodness,

goodness finds you."

Your friend Darcy is very lucky to have people like you.

(telephone ringing)

This is Darcy.

Darcy hi, it's Karen Howell, I represent Barbara Kirkland?

Hi!

We are really looking forward

to having Barbara on Christmas Eve.

Right, as you know, our agreement allows

for either party to cancel with a minimum 24 hours notice?

Well, we're certainly not looking to do that.

Yeah, here's the thing...

We've had another offer.

Darcy?

I'll be back in an hour.

Mary Shaw?

Yes?

Hi, I'm Darcy Archer from Chaucer's.

Could I have a moment of your time?

This is about Barbara Kirkland, isn't it?

You stole our author the day before Christmas Eve--

Our headlining author

is stuck in a snowstorm up in Canada somewhere.

Barbara Kirkland was already in town and we were in a pinch.

So, your solution was putting us in a pinch?

All we did was make an offer, Darcy.

I can't help if she accepted.

Are you kidding me with this?

It's one thing to not participate

in the book donation drive,

even though you are a book store,

or try and outdo our event with a candy cane forest,

but this...

Come on!

I'm sorry, Darcy.

I have to do what's best for my store.

These are the tough choices I have to make.

It's just business.

I've grown really tired of hearing that

as an excuse to be unkind.

And one more thing, Mary!

Your store is skimping on hot chocolate

and covering it with whipping cream,

and people are starting to talk.

♪ ♪ ♪

Well don't you look dapper.

Ms. Archer! You take my breath away.

What, this old thing?

Tell me, why didn't we go to this party last year?

Because you were still in Ohio rediscovering your identity.

You know, amnesia really messed

with my schedule for a minute there.

Shall we?

♪ ♪ ♪

Ho, ho, ho!

This is amazing.

Yeah, they really go all out.

Hey!

Oh Astrid, here's that handsome art teacher

I told you about.

Hi.

It's okay, I can say that, I'm a married woman.

Remember me? Susan?

Yes, of course. Nice to see you again, Susan.

And this is my bingo buddy, Astrid.

Isn't he handsome, Astrid?

Oh, he looks like a cartoon prince!

And look at her!

Aren't you adorable!

Someone needs to take a picture of you two.

Come on, you can sit with us.

-Really? -Yes.

Thank you.

(Vanessa) You're not giving

your Aunt Monica any trouble, are you?

No ma'am.

He's been a perfect angel, Vanessa.

And I brought him to the Rec Center Christmas Party.

Oh, the rec center party's the best!

Still miss you, though.

I miss you baby, so much.

And I know your dad does, too.

He's only called once.

But he'll call again, just as soon as he can.

Yeah, I know.

Tell me what you've been up to.

Oh, well the Christmas village is almost done

for Aiden's girlfriend, and it looks so cool.

Sounds like you made a new friend.

So how long have you two been together?

A year.

Oh, that's nice.

Susan and Alan just celebrated 53 years.

Is that so?

What's your secret?

Whenever, and however you can,

you save the best of yourselves for each other.

It takes a lifetime to learn how to love someone properly.

I feel like we're starting to get the hang of it.

(laughter)

Good evening, everyone.

I'd like to take just a moment for a special presentation.

Many people might not realize this,

but the center is actually family owned.

It's been in the Pierce family for over three generations.

We wanted to take this time to thank Mr. Pierce for--

(whispering)

What is he doing?

Thank you.

Before Glenda grows too effusive with her praise,

there was something that I needed to say,

about the future of the center.

He promised he wouldn't.

And maybe he won't.

I wanted everyone here to know,

that in the coming year--

Okay, he's gonna.

In celebration of its designation

as a Philadelphia historic landmark,

we intend on doing a full-scale renovation

to help prepare the center for its next 100 years.

(audience applauding)

The truth is, I've been very fortunate in my line of work.

And I'm very grateful for all of my success.

But a real lasting legacy?

Well, it's people.

It's community.

It's the stories that we all tell together.

And, I am very proud to have played a small part

in the memories that you all make here.

Thank you.

(audience applauding)

Mr. Pierce?

Darcy, Aiden.

I don't know what to say except thank you.

My sister has this kid,

well, not really a kid anymore I guess,

but in a way they always are, you know?

Brilliant young man.

But he went through a bit of a rough stretch for awhile.

And the first time that we've seen him genuinely excited

about anything, in far too long,

was when he decided to write a book

about the history of the internet.

Your nephew is Pat Young.

You recommended his book.

You gave him a place in your community

when others wouldn't.

Thank you.

♪ ♪ ♪

You know I've got to tell you,

this is the best party I've been to in ages.

So, have you finished your secret present?

Almost.

Am I going to love it?

Man, I hope so.

You know, I couldn't have done it without Marcus' help.

If helping others reveals the best version of ourselves,

then accepting help gives people the chance to do their best.

Wow, that is very wise.

I'm paraphrasing Mrs. Henley.

Well, she's awesome and very wise.

She is.

Check them out.

Looks like love is ageless.

Can you see yourself

looking at someone like that 50 years from now?

Yeah.

That's really easy to picture.

Okay people, we are T minus 90 minutes

until the doors open.

It smells like hot chocolate in here,

which is already helping.

That was a great idea, Matthew.

Thanks.

Oh, Mr. Young!

Thank you so much for doing this on such short notice.

No no, thank you.

This is very, very exciting.

Carrie, will you show Mr. Young where we're setting up?

Sure, right this way.

Buon Natale!

Ready for a party?

This should be a very exciting night!

Come on.

We have a very passionate local author

who has promised to invite friends.

Have you guys seen Aiden?

He and Marcus are picking up last minute supplies.

Do you need any help here?

We take it from here, ah?

Okay, I think this is the perfect time

to go get changed.

(telephone ringing)

This is Darcy.

Darcy, hi, it's Carolyn Cho

with The Society for Historic Preservation.

I'm so sorry to bother you on Christmas Eve,

but I just realized I failed to have you sign the request

for us to take to the city council.

Oh, well I'm sure if you contact the property owner,

David Pierce, he can help you.

Since you made the initial request,

it has to be signed by you, and because of the holiday,

we really need to get this in today.

No problem, Carolyn.

I will be right there.

I'll be back as soon as I can.

Don't worry about a thing, we have it all handled.

Thank you!

Guys, the coast is clear!

Did she suspect anything?

Not a thing!

This is all you needed?

I can't apologize enough for the inconvenience.

All the hoops we have to jump through

to get the paperwork in time for holidays.

I'm happy to help, Mrs. Cho.

-Thank you. -Yeah.

Well, Merry Christmas.

Merry Christmas.

-Bye. -Buh-bye.

(cell phone vibrating)

Oh, Darcy's on the move!

We've got to hurry.

Hi!

Is it ready?

It's all ready, we just need

to get her away from the back of the store.

Great!

I made it!

Hey sweetie!

Hi!

Let me get that for you.

Oh, thank you!

Wow, there's already people lining up out there.

Well, that's a good sign.

It is, and everything looks amazing.

Oh, is the craft area set up for the kids?

All set.

Great, I want to see it.

(Mrs. Henley and Matthew) No!

Oh?

Because you need to go to your office

and get into your party dress.

You're right, I should do that.

But you know what Matthew,

there's no need for people to be waiting out in the cold.

Let's go ahead and open up the doors.

Should we wait for--

Wait for?

Nothing!

Darcy! We may have a situation.

Oh, I don't like it when people say that.

No, everything's fine here.

I just heard there's power lines down on Gerard

and the whole street lost electricity.

Everyone at Books Books Books is standing in the dark.

Why can't I just enjoy that?

Oh, because you're not that kind of person.

That was quick thinking.

How did you get Books Books Books

to go along with it?

That wasn't a distraction.

Books Books Books really doesn't have power.

Oh, that's unfortunate.

But the timing was impeccable.

Mary, hi,

this is Darcy Archer from Chaucer's Bookstore.

I hear you could use a good neighbor right about now.

(guests chatting)

Hi.

There you are, I wondered where you ran off to.

You started the party early.

Yeah, people were waiting so I figured

I'd go ahead and let them in.

You okay?

Oh, yeah.

Just, I have a little present

that I wanted to give to you before the party.

Oh, I'm sorry, am I too late?

No, no no, it's all good.

Just uh, let me know when you have some time.

Okay.

You aren't giving me your top secret,

amazing Christmas present tonight, are you?

Why do you ask?

Because all of this buildup

is making me seriously question the gift I'm giving you.

Darcy, your gift is going to be perfect,

because it comes from you.

Oh, that was good.

Yeah, I try.

Just give me a few moments to get Pat's reading set up,

and then I'm all yours.

Okay.

The team had all gone home for the holidays,

but Tim Burner's lead decided to try one more time.

At long last, the connection between terminal

and server was successful.

It was Christmas, 1990,

and the internet as we know it, was born.

Consider the perfection of that timing.

It didn't make the world smaller, it made it closer.

So of course it happened at Christmas,

the time of year when that's what we're all seeking.

The hope that we'll all be bold enough,

to attempt a connection.

Thanks.

(audience cheering and applauding)

♪ ♪ ♪

Oh!

Darcy, thank you.

Of course.

Mary, this is my boyfriend, Aiden Harris.

Aiden, this is Mary Shaw,

the manager of Books Books Books.

Oh!

-Hi there. -Hi!

Mary's store lost power

and they were going to have to cancel the event,

so I said everyone could come here.

Of course you did.

I hope you're ready for a packed event,

because I have a store full of customers headed your way!

We are ready and happy to have them.

We have room for everyone.

Darcy, I owe you an apology.

I think I could learn a few things from you

on how to see the competition as part of the community.

I'm very glad to hear you say that.

Well, Merry Christmas and welcome to Chaucer's.

Please make yourself at home.

Great, thank you.

So, how about the surprise?

Are we ready?

Darcy, we just sold every copy of my book.

-Seriously? -Yeah.

I mean, wow!

Pat, that is so fantastic!

Yeah!

Oh, I want to introduce you to my uncle, David.

I believe we've met before.

Of course, it's lovely to see you again.

Darcy's been working

to have the Center declared a historic landmark.

Oh, wow, that's great!

In fact, I just signed the paperwork

at The Society for Historic Preservation.

Just in time for the holidays.

Right, well, thank you for that.

Clearly that was important.

Oh, my entire family is here

and it's kind of a big night for us.

Do you mind taking a few photos with us?

Oh, actually we were--

Oh no, go ahead. You are very busy.

-Are you sure? -Of course, go!

Yes, great! Would love to!

Right this way.

Hey, thanks.

You still haven't gotten her back there!

No, not yet.

Darcy is a very popular person.

Well, be patient.

She's worth waiting for.

She certainly is.

Hi.

Hi, Ms. Archer.

Whatcha got there?

So, tonight hasn't gone exactly as planned.

But, if it's okay with you,

I'd still like to give it a try.

Aiden, what in the world?

The town of South Dublin, Maine.

Which you know.

The library, Dan Brown's on the water, the movie theater,

and then we journey to Philadelphia.

The house on Lexington Avenue.

Made by your dad.

I don't understand.

A few years ago,

a very kind lady who lives in that house now,

found a package hidden in her basement,

all wrapped up and ready for Christmas.

She kept it because she knew that someone made it with care.

He made it, and you found it.

We visited your house, Marcus and I,

when you gave him your address.

I knew that Mad Libs was really weird.

But that's just the beginning.

Einstein Hospital.

When I first learned your name,

and you taught me how to make those paper snowflakes.

Luigi's Restaurant, where we've shared basically

all of our favorite meals.

And the rec center!

Naturally.

And...

Chaucer's Bookstore.

Where I first saw your face.

And we also had our first kiss.

Ah yes, that too.

I can't believe you did all this.

This is the most amazing gift

that anyone has ever given to me.

Thank you.

Darcy, you are worth it.

Oh...

I hate to interrupt.

Mrs. Henley...

Look at this.

It's beautiful.

Aiden, you asked that I let you know

when Marcus' father called.

Is he on the phone now?

Yes, he is.

Is it Christmas yet where you are?

No, it's still Christmas Eve where I am.

Hi, baby brother, Merry Christmas!

Hi, Monica!

Hey, I'm sorry I'm having a little trouble

hearing you there.

Marcus let's go out front

so that your dad can hear you better.

And we made Christmas collars for Bailey

and his friends at the dog park.

Oh, and I judged a cookie contest too,

it was so much fun!

Wow, it sounds like you've been busy.

Yeah, when are you coming home?

I'll be there before you know it.

Okay, and when's that?

Marcus, look up.

Dad!

You're home!

I'm home, buddy.

Oh baby brother,

it's so good to have you back.

It's so good to see you!

Oh, and dad!

These are my friends, Aiden and Darcy.

-Hi. -Hi.

Nice to meet you.

Thank you so much for all you've done for Marcus.

You made this Christmas really special for him.

He's made it very special for us, too.

Can I show him the Christmas village?

-Absolutely. -Come on!

All right...

Thank you.

Oh, couldn't help but notice.

Somebody left a gift under that tree.

You can't possibly have another surprise.

I don't know this one.

That's cause we haven't seen it yet.

This is our house.

Whatever it might look like,

whatever it turns out to be.

And we will fill it

with all the stories that we tell together.

All of your memories, Darcy.

The beautiful moments...

The sad ones...

Every triumph...

Every loss...

They've made you into this person that I love so much.

And all I want...

Is a chance to spend the rest of my life

making memories with you.

Darcy Archer...

Will you marry me?

Yes.

-Yes? -Yes!

Yes!

♪ ♪ ♪

She said yes!

(cheering and applauding)

Merry Christmas, Darcy.

Merry Christmas, Aiden.

♪ ♪ ♪

♪ So go ahead, light the fire ♪

♪ Turn that Christmas tree on ♪

♪ Because I've been missing you so much ♪

♪ That I wrote you this song ♪

♪ Yes I did, because I missed Thanksgiving ♪

♪ Missed a birthday or two ♪

♪ I didn't make Saint Valentine's ♪

♪ But I was thinking of you ♪