A Christmas Snow (2010) Movie Script
(subdued music)
(door closes)
(door opens and closes)
(knocking on window)
Christmas snow on my window pane
Silent night
Such a cold, cold night
You slammed the door
I saw you walk away
My heart just stopped
A tear ran down my face
I saw you walk away
Outside my window pane
And every single day
I still think of you
Every single day
I still think of you
(blender whirring)
(ethereal music)
(doorbell rings)
- Comfort food has never been so cold?
(scoffs)
(chuckles)
(cell phone rings)
Yes, Martin, I'm reading it.
And no, it does not mean
we're closing for Christmas.
- [Woman On Phone] Kathleen?
Kathleen, are you there?
(cell phone rings)
- [Kathleen] Morning.
- Good morning, my dear.
- I know you've read it, so
you can cut the pleasantries.
- [Man] Uh, read what?
- The article.
What'd you guys do, hide
them when I walked in?
Hand them over.
- Oh...
Yes, well.
- Yes.
- It really isn't so bad.
- They called me a Gourmet Grinch.
- People should be with
their families on Christmas.
- Well, we're like family, right?
She's relentless.
- Shouldn't you just talk to her?
She said it was urgent.
- It's just her annual
Christmas invitation.
- It really wouldn't
hurt to close for a day.
- Not a chance.
I have mouths to feed.
- Not after that article.
- I will not abandon my
loyal holiday loners.
Besides, how.
- [Both] How can we feed
them if we aren't open?
(laughing)
- Yes, well.
Then we better rethink
your Christmas gift.
- Christmas gift?
- We were all going to pitch
in and change the locks.
(laughing)
- Martin, I could kiss you.
- Speaking of which.
- [Man] Tre bon. (laughs)
- Oh, stop.
Stop that.
Martin, if you don't put
that away, I'm gonna.
- Gonna what?
Have some fun?
You're a prude.
- That's right, I'm a prude.
I'm a Christmas prude.
Now, get back to work.
- She's the prude who stole Christmas.
- [Kathleen] I heard that.
(Martin sighs)
(Man laughs)
- Welcome to Kathleen's.
- You have some nerve
coming into my restaurant
after that review.
- Well, why, Kathleen?
The food's great.
There's just no Christmas cheer in here.
- Um, Kathleen, you have a call holding.
- Tell her I'm busy with a customer.
- [Martin] It's not your mother.
- Andrew?
Good.
I could use some good news today.
Please, don't tell me
you're calling to cancel.
- No, not canceling, but there
is a slight change of plans.
- [Kathleen On Phone] You read the review?
(laughs)
- [Andrew On Phone] No.
I am, however, bringing
more business with me.
- Oh, you are?
How much?
- Just one.
- Oh, that's great.
- Ah, food's here.
- [Waitress] Here you are, Kathleen.
- Oh, thank you, Hannah.
That looks perfect.
Great.
Watch it, the plate's hot.
I hope you like what I picked.
I had Claude make it especially for you.
- Mm.
Oh, this is amazing.
- Do you really like it?
- Mm.
Lucy, don't you think this looks amazing?
- What is that?
- It's Linguini Pescatori.
It's organic.
- I'm a chicketarian.
- A what?
A chicka?
- A chicketarian.
It's new.
- I don't eat meat, except for chicken.
- Well, would you like something else?
- Yeah.
- No, she's fine.
- I need to eat.
- How about a chicken salad sandwich?
- Hate it.
- Lucy.
- Chicken nuggets?
- I had that for lunch.
- A chicken-fried steak?
- Are you trying to trick me?
- Lucy, that is enough.
- Maybe I should talk to the chef.
- No, Kathleen.
Don't worry about it.
- Really, I'd like to.
- [Andrew] Hey, what's wrong with you?
- She's so.
- [Andrew] What?
- So not mom.
- That child is unbelievable.
- She's cute.
- She's a chicketarian.
No, don't pretend that that's normal.
What's the grossest thing that we have
that looks like chicken?
- We could...
Perhaps you should ask Andrew.
- What?
Oh.
I am so sorry and embarrassed.
- No, no, no.
Don't worry about it,
don't worry about it.
I mean, I'm sorry.
She's just a mess tonight.
I mean, this time of year
is just so hard on her.
- Hey, it's okay.
- No, I'm really sorry about this.
- No, don't be.
- Kathleen, you're great
and Lucy's great, too.
I really need you to see that.
Promise me you'll give her a chance?
And order her a corn dog, will ya?
(bright piano music)
- [Kathleen] How is it?
- Fine.
- What do you say?
- Goodnight, Kathleen.
- Thank you.
Thank you is the answer
that I was looking for.
(sighs)
- You can't stay for dessert?
- Oh, I'd love to.
But I still have a lot of packing to do
and then I have to drop
her off at the sitter.
- I don't need a sitter.
- You know what, though.
I could, maybe, drop by your place
on the way to the airport.
- Oh, that's great.
Then we can have dessert there.
- Okay then.
Thank you.
It was wonderful.
Really.
Go, go.
Don't be rude.
(bright music)
(doorbell rings)
I've been calling like crazy.
- She's not wearing pants.
- Lucy, come on.
She's wearing a robe.
Hey, do you sew?
- [Kathleen] What?
- [Andrew] Sew.
You know, like with a needle and thread.
- [Kathleen] Um, no.
- You can't leave me
with a pantless woman.
- Leave her?
What happened to the baby sitter?
- She canceled on us.
- [Lucy] Obviously.
(chattering on TV)
- Hey.
Now listen, I'm only
gonna be gone one night.
- A lot can happen in a night.
- I'll be back before you know it.
- In time for my show?
- I wouldn't miss it.
In fact, I think we can convince Kathleen
to save me a front-row seat.
- Sure.
- See?
- What about my costume?
- Well, I'm sure Kathleen
can take care of it, right?
- Of course.
- [Andrew] You don't mind?
- No.
- Thank you.
You're a life saver.
Thank you so much.
All right, Lucy.
Hey, I love you.
Be good, okay?
Okay, guys.
Bye-bye.
Have fun.
- Hurry.
- Don't rush me.
- I kind of have to.
- Well, technically we
have until tomorrow night.
- Yeah, but I need time to practice in it.
I'm a star.
- I thought you were an angel?
- Duh.
But I'm also the star of the show.
Besides, I have to go to the bathroom.
- Oh, okay.
New plan.
- Great.
- Um.
Do you have any more safety pins?
- No.
- Okay, we'll have to pick some up.
Come on.
Get your coat.
We're going to the store.
- I'll be fine.
You can go without me.
- No, I don't think that's a good idea.
Your dad put me in charge.
I can't just leave you here.
- Yes, you can.
My dad does it all the time.
Besides, I'm 10 years old.
I'm not a child.
- Okay, I'll be back in 15 minutes tops.
- Kay.
- Don't budge from this couch.
- Kay.
- [Man On Radio] A cold
front's passing through
on its way from the West for the holidays,
so here's a little something
to get you in the mood.
Oh, the weather outside is frightful
But the fire is so delightful
And since we've no place to go
(Kathleen gasps)
(tires squeal)
- Oh!
(subdued music)
I'm sorry.
("We Wish You a Merry
Christmas" playing on PA)
Oh.
- Your total comes to $18.97.
- Okay.
- Would you care to give
a dollar to the children?
- What children?
- You know, the...
Merry Christmas.
(tense music)
- Seriously?
(dramatic music)
- Need some help?
- [Kathleen] No, thank you.
- Did you lose something?
- No.
I'm fine, thanks.
You can leave.
- How about you let me
carry that heavy bag for ya?
(Kathleen gasps)
Now look what you did.
- Back in my day when a lady
asked you to leave her alone,
you left her alone.
- How about you just
mind your own business
and go back to your shelter?
- Fun's over.
Go back to your home and
leave the nice lady be.
- Like I said before,
this is none of your business, old man.
- I'm making it my business.
(skateboard thuds)
- [Kathleen] Mister?
Mister, are you okay?
(Kathleen yells)
- Are you okay?
- Am I okay?
Are you okay?
You got a nasty hit.
- I'm fine.
Did you lose anything?
- Oh.
I can't find my keys.
I don't know where my
cell phone is either.
I should call the police.
- No, no.
I mean...
Please, don't call them on my account.
I'm fine.
- Okay.
- Oh, good.
You found 'em.
- Thank you for your help.
- It's quite all right.
- You're, um...
You're hurt.
- Oh, I'm fine.
There.
All better.
(laughs)
- Listen, I'm so sorry.
I almost ran over you.
- Yes, I guess you did.
- I should've apologized sooner.
- Sam.
- Sam.
Right.
(chuckles)
Merry Christmas.
- Merry Christmas.
- Can I give you a ride somewhere?
- I guess I could use a ride
to the bus station downtown.
- Come on.
- Well, this doesn't look too promising.
According to the sign, they're closed.
I guess I missed my bus.
- You better come with me.
It's my turn, anyway.
- Your turn?
- I almost killed you, you saved my life.
I'm not gonna let you
die out here in the cold.
Come on, get in.
- Well.
- Um...
So, um...
Why don't you just wait over there
and I'll get some linens
for the guest room.
- Okay.
- Okay.
(upbeat music on TV)
- You didn't mention you have a daughter.
- Oh.
No, I don't.
Oh, my goodness.
I can't believe I forgot about her.
- You forgot you had a daughter?
- Oh, no.
I don't have a daughter.
I hardly know her.
I'm just watching her for someone.
- She looks worn out.
- Good.
She's been difficult to deal with.
- Well, I can take it from here
if you point me in the right direction.
- Well, it's just there.
- Oh.
Well then, goodnight.
- Goodnight.
(soft piano music)
(Kathleen grunting)
(sighs)
Lucy?
(tense music)
(switch clicking)
Lucy?
- [Lucy] Oh, my gosh!
- (gasps) Lucy!
Hey, hold it right there.
Don't move.
- You're gonna need more than that today.
- Well, good morning, sleepy head.
- Lucy, why didn't you wake me up?
What time is it?
You're gonna be late for school.
- School's canceled.
- Canceled?
- Yeah, look outside.
- Last night's cold front
was an ice and snow storm.
- I still can't find my phone.
- You don't have a
phone here at the house?
- I only have a cell phone.
I must've left it at the restaurant.
I'm just gonna have to go get it.
- I wouldn't go out there.
- How bad could it be?
We're leaving in five minutes.
(switch clicks)
- Here.
We can open it if we release
it here at the opener.
- I don't think you're
getting out of here.
- I need my phone.
- It's solid ice.
- Well, I'll just have to dig.
- Well, call me if you need me.
- Oh, Lucy.
Lucy.
Lucy, Lucy, you stay
out here with me, okay?
- No, it's freezing.
- Then do jumping jacks or run in place.
I don't care what you do,
but just do it out here.
- Can I at least get my
backpack so I can read?
- Okay, but then come right back out here.
- Fine.
(upbeat music)
- Seriously?
(grunting)
(breathing heavily)
(grunting)
Whatcha reading?
- A book.
- Ah, really?
What's it about?
- A vampire woman who holds
little girls and old men hostage
and threatens them with butcher knives.
- So, it's a love story.
- Okay, all the food
that was in the fridge
is now in the cooler.
- You didn't have to do that.
- I just want to help.
Can I fix you guys breakfast?
- Pancakes.
- Nothing too messy.
- One batch of not-too-messy
pancakes coming right up.
- Can I go in and help him?
- Fine, whatever.
(cell phone ringing)
- Hello?
Still snowed in.
No, he's inside and his name is Sam.
Uh-huh, he's real nice.
Kathleen doesn't like him, though.
Yeah, she finally woke up.
Kay.
My dad wants to talk to you
and he doesn't sound too happy.
- Hello?
(bright piano music)
- You've got moves.
- Oh, that's nothing.
Watch this.
- Is that for me?
- This plate is for the first
person who asks politely.
- May I please have that pancake?
- Yes, you may, young lady.
- Syrup?
I mean, syrup, please.
Manners.
- Never go out of style.
- I lend a helping hand
and this is what I get.
(head thumps)
Ow.
- [Andrew On Phone] What was that?
Where are you?
- I'm hiding in the shower
and I'm banging my head against the wall.
(Andrew laughing)
Yeah, okay.
That's enough.
- [Andrew On Phone] Well,
you're in some state.
Serves you right.
- We have a battery to reserve.
(Andrew laughs)
Just call me when you find
out about your flight, okay?
- [Andrew On Phone] Okay, take care.
- You, too.
(Kathleen screams)
(Lucy chuckles)
- Did you have a nice chat?
- Yes, thank you very much.
- We saved you some pancakes.
- No, thank you.
I'm not hungry.
- You have to try them.
Sam is a genius chef.
- I need that phone back.
- Why?
I don't think my dad wants
to talk with you again.
- Because I need to
talk to my genius chef.
- Well, I'm bored.
Find me something to do
and you can use my phone.
(scoffs)
- You.
- Oh, my gosh.
I love vintage.
Where'd you get all this stuff?
- Life, I guess.
- Weird life.
- The games are up there.
Pick something, would ya?
- You have somewhere to be?
- I have important calls to make.
- On my phone.
- Hey, you picked the deal.
- I want this one.
- Phone.
- You're like a child.
(subdued piano music)
(plastic clattering)
- Oh. (laughs)
- Well, Katie.
Seems like it's down to just you and me.
- Yep.
- [Kathleen] It's Kathleen.
May I be excused?
- Honey, it's family night.
Let's just finish the game.
She's really very good at this.
I mean, she beats me every time.
- Well, this I gotta see.
But maybe some other night.
It's getting late.
- [Lucy] Whatcha doin'?
- Inspiring myself.
- I imagine you'd like
to play a game with me.
(sighs)
(phone beeping)
- Oh, Martin, great.
Please, tell me you're at the restaurant.
No, I'm stuck, too.
(laughing)
- You, my dear, have a great imagination.
- My therapist says I use it to cope.
- Oh, yeah?
What do you think?
- I think an imagination
is like a lollipop.
- A lollipop?
- Yeah.
Like, you know, whenever you
go to the doctor's office
and you get a shot?
Well, they give you a lollipop
and it makes the pain go away.
- You've gotten a lot of shots
in your life, haven't you?
- Yeah.
- Me, too.
- I know.
- Oh, yeah?
How do you know?
- You have a good imagination.
Okay, let's play.
- The phone is dying.
Look, plan on being open at Christmas.
Don't give me a hard time about it, okay?
I'm not in the mood.
- Oh!
(laughs)
- Don't feel bad.
I used to play this game with
my mom and dad all the time.
You should've seen my mom.
She was great.
I don't think I ever
saw her break the ice.
- Sounds like she's got the touch.
- Yeah, there was no one like her.
- Was?
- She's gone.
- Where is she, if I can ask?
- Heaven, I think.
- I'm sorry to hear that.
I know it's tough losing a loved one.
- It's the worst.
But how do you know?
- I'm old.
Trust me.
I've lost my share of
people along the way.
- They all died?
- No.
Some of it was my own doing.
- Wait a second.
You're not like a serial killer, are you?
- What?
No.
- But...
But you said that.
- What I meant was it was my fault.
Like I drove people away.
I'm not a killer.
- That's a relief 'cause
I do not approve of that.
(Sam laughs)
- What don't you approve of?
- Murder.
- Oh.
Well, that's good 'cause I
don't approve of that either.
- [Lucy] You know what
else I don't approve of?
- What's that?
- Stealing.
My phone, Kathleen.
- Well, it's in my office and
I'd hardly call that stealing.
- I'm gonna go call my dad.
Make sure he's okay.
- Okay, well make it quick
because the battery's almost dead.
And don't touch anything.
- Do you want to play?
(phone beeping)
- Dad?
- [Andrew On Phone] Hi, honey.
- Who do you like better, Mom or Kathleen?
- [Andrew On Phone] Lucy.
- You know you can't replace her.
- [Andrew On Phone] I know, honey.
She was special.
- She is special.
- [Andrew On Phone] And so is Kathleen.
- Yeah, but she's special in a bad way.
She has no Christmas
decorations in her house.
- [Andrew On Phone] I want
you to give her a chance.
Please, Lucy?
- Okay.
Fine.
When are you coming home?
(phone beeps)
- Come on, baby.
Light as a feather.
- Concentrate.
- I can't concentrate with you talking.
Oh!
(Sam laughing)
Come on.
This is a stupid game.
- You've lost it.
(laughing)
- In all my years, who would've thought?
- You gotta be kidding me.
- Stuck inside on Christmas.
- And I don't even know you people.
(Sam and Kathleen laughing)
- Lucy?
- Do you really think we're gonna
be stuck here for Christmas?
- Well, by the looks of
it, it's a possibility.
- I hate this Christmas.
I want to wear a costume
and be the star of my Christmas pageant.
And I want to see my dad.
And I want to open presents
on Christmas morning.
- Oh, come on, Lucy.
You'll be able to open your presents.
Just on a different day.
(sobbing)
- Hey, let's take it one day at a time.
Okay, kiddo?
- Okay.
But it would take a miracle to
save this day from stinking.
- I think I have my first
ever kid-friendly idea.
- That will be a miracle.
- And now, our feature presentation.
(upbeat music)
(chuckles)
(Lucy laughing)
- [Lucy] Oh, no.
(chuckles)
- In those days a decree
went out from Cesar Augustus
that all the world should be registered.
- Chi-ching.
- And so, Joseph went to
his hometown of Bethlehem
to be registered with his betrothed Mary,
who was with child.
(Kathleen laughing)
And while they were there,
the time came to give birth.
And so the Virgin Mary gave
birth to her first-born son,
and wrapped him in swaddling clothes,
and laid him in a manger because there was
no room for him at the inn.
(laughs)
Meanwhile, in a nearby field.
(Lucy imitating sheep)
- Don't look into the light.
- Who are you?
I'm terrified.
- Don't be afraid.
I am an angel.
- A real angel?
- Don't ask questions.
I'm here to announce
a joyful event to you.
To the world, actually.
A child has been born in Bethlehem.
He is the savior of the universe.
Messiah and master of the world.
Look for a baby wrapped in
a blanket lying in a manger.
Peace be to all and to all a good night.
(Kathleen chuckles)
(applauding)
- Yay!
Good job.
- Thank you.
- Do you want some soup?
- Yeah.
- Oh, it's gonna be good.
- There's a part of this
story that has become
very special to me and I'd
like to read it if it's okay.
- Yeah.
(subdued music)
(Sam clears throat)
- Let's see.
And when the time came for Mary and Joseph
to present the child to the Lord,
they took baby Jesus to the temple.
In Jerusalem, at the very same time,
there was a man, Simeon by name.
A good man.
And God's spirit was upon him.
And God revealed to him that he would
see the Messiah before he died.
Lead by the spirit,
Simeon went to the temple
just as the parents of
Jesus brought the child
to be presented before God.
And Simeon, seeing the baby,
took him into his arms
and he blessed God saying,
God, you can release your servant.
Release me in peace as you have promised.
With my own eyes I have
seen your salvation
and now it's in the open for all to see.
A light for all the world.
- I've never heard that
part of the story before.
- It's become very special to me.
- [Lucy] I've always wanted to do this.
- You've never had s'mores?
- I've had s'mores, but my
dad makes them in a microwave.
- (laughs) Well, that's just criminal.
- Kathleen, how come you
always have to be perfect?
- I don't know how to
answer that question.
- Well, how about with the truth?
My dad says you should
always tell the truth.
- I guess I just want people to like me.
(laughing)
- Lucy.
- Sorry.
It's just, I like the not-perfect
Kathleen so much better.
- I'd have to agree.
(scoffs)
- Yeah, well you're like a
saint and you're just a kid.
You don't understand anything
about what life is like.
- Okay.
First of all, I know a lot about life
because I'm really smart.
And second, I've been seeing
a therapist since I was eight.
- So?
- I know about feelings and
I'm good at tracing them.
- (scoffs) What?
- You need to find your root, Kathleen.
It's usually like your worst day ever.
Like the moment you knew that you
were always going to be different.
Well, do you know it?
- Yeah.
- And do you want to talk about it?
- Not really.
- Figures.
- What?
- You just don't want to let go.
- Ladies.
- At least I'm trying
to deal with my issues.
- Issues?
Seriously?
You're 10.
Why don't you just let it go
and get on with your life?
- It's getting late.
I should be in bed.
- Lucy, wait.
- Thank you, Sam, for a wonderful evening.
And thank you, Kathleen, for ruining it.
- You're welcome!
(subdued music)
That was bad, wasn't it?
(sighs)
Look at this place.
- It's not that bad.
- (laughs) It's a mess.
- It suits you.
- You're right.
I'm a mess.
You know, every time I
think I have it worked out,
something small happens and, boom,
I'm right back there again.
- Back where?
- Watching my dad leave.
- Oh.
That's hard.
- My whole world collapsed.
I was only 10.
Lucy's age.
I've lived it so many times,
but I always feel the same way.
I feel alone.
- What about your mom?
Was she gone, too?
- My mother?
No, she was very much there.
- [Sam] You didn't get along?
- We used to, but then she remarried.
- [Sam] Bad guy?
- Oh, he was fine, but he wasn't my dad.
I didn't want a new dad.
I blamed my mom for everything.
And so, I moved out as soon as I could
'cause I just wanted to get away.
But then the only person
around to blame was myself.
- It's not your fault.
You were just a kid.
- That's what everyone says.
- It's the truth.
- The truth is, my dad
didn't care enough about me.
Not enough.
- How can you know that?
- Because I was there when he left.
We just finished decorating
the Christmas tree.
It was beautiful.
It was simple, but it was perfect.
I used to like to lie
under it all curled up.
And that's where I was when I heard him
rush down the hall and out the front door.
He didn't see me, so I went to the window.
I knocked on it.
He stopped and he looked right at me.
And he turned and walked away.
- Have you ever tried to
get in touch with him?
- Why?
He's the one who left.
He could find me if he wanted to.
- It's not always that simple.
You know, your story could
just as soon be mine.
- Did your dad leave you?
- No.
It was me who did the leaving.
- How could you do that?
- It's complicated.
My dad was all messed up.
I didn't want a thing to do with him.
As I got older, I started my own family.
Funny thing was, I
turned out just like him.
The anger, the drinking, the women.
It devastated my wife.
But I couldn't bring myself to change.
So I left.
- You gave up.
- That was the worst day of my life.
But I wanted to change.
- [Kathleen] What was stopping you?
- I thought it was too late.
Didn't think I deserved it.
And then, I met a young man
who told me it wasn't too late.
He told me there was hope for me.
And I wanted it to be true.
He invited me over for
dinner with his family
and he showed me
what I'd been looking for my entire life.
A chance at forgiveness.
A chance to change.
And right then and there,
I was Simeon.
You heard the words in
the story like salvation?
Well, I experienced it.
It was like a light that went off
and lit up my entire world.
And it changed everything.
- Did you go back to your family?
- No, not yet.
I'm working on that one.
- But you said you changed.
- And it's true.
Everything about me has changed.
Circumstances haven't.
I'm sorting through an
entire life of bad decisions.
- Do you think I should
look for my father?
- Some things in life are worth seeking.
And family is one of them.
- Well, like I said.
He could find me if he wanted to.
- What about your mother?
- It's been too long.
I wouldn't know what to say to her.
I haven't spoken to her in years.
She still calls at Christmas.
I don't usually pick up, but
I listen to the messages.
- [Sam] Maybe you should talk to her.
- I don't know.
- You'll never know unless you try.
- Thanks, Sam.
I'll sleep on it.
Good morning.
- Good morning, Kathleen.
- You have such beautiful hair.
You should wear it down sometimes.
- My dad says it's just like my mom's.
- I bet she was beautiful.
I wanted to talk to you about last night.
I'm sorry.
- Me, too.
- We're quite a pair, aren't we?
- Yeah.
My therapist says I act bad sometimes
'cause I'm afraid I'll get left out.
- By your dad?
- He just gets so busy with work.
Then he always wants to see you.
My dad likes you a lot.
- Well, he loves you a lot.
Not everyone can say that.
- Kathleen, how come
loving people's so scary?
(subdued music)
- Maybe because you can't
make them love you back?
- Yeah, and you don't
want 'em to leave you out.
- Yeah, that's the scariest part.
- Do you love my dad?
- I think I'm too scared to say.
- Well, I think he's
gonna love you real soon.
Can you make sure my dad
doesn't forget about me?
- That's never gonna happen.
Not to you.
You're as unforgettable as they come.
Come here.
Come on.
Let's finish your hair and
get some breakfast, okay?
(Lucy laughing)
- Hey, you know what today is?
- Wednesday?
- Garbage day?
- Guys, it's the eve of Christmas Eve.
- How could I have forgotten?
- I don't know about you
guys, but in the real world,
I would be making a
gingerbread house right now.
- [Kathleen] Problem.
- What?
- We used up all the eggs.
- Eggs?
- For the gingerbread.
- I usually get my gingerbread
house out of a box.
Got one of those?
- No.
- You know, when I was a little boy,
we made some pretty nifty houses out of
graham crackers and candy.
- We have graham crackers.
- We have candy?
(upbeat music)
- Hey, what time is it?
- 10 o'clock.
- Good, we're right on schedule.
- [Kathleen] You have a schedule?
- Well, more of a to-do list.
- And what exactly do you have to do?
- Well, this, of course.
But we also need to make
Christmas wishlists,
decorate the living room, and
play a game of hide and seek.
- Well, I'll be.
- What?
- That's exactly what I want to do today.
(all laughing)
- Well, this was just meant to be.
- One,
two,
three,
four,
five,
six,
seven,
eight.
(door closes)
Careful.
Nine,
Ready or not, here I come.
Gotcha.
- Hey, I'm supposed to be the one hiding.
Are you sad?
- No, I'm good.
- That's pretty.
- Thanks.
I made it when I was a kid.
(knocking on door)
- [Lucy] It's Sam.
- Ho, ho, ho.
Merry Christmas.
- It's a Christmas tree.
- Looks more like a bush.
- It's a Christmas bush.
- Okay, come on.
(subdued music)
Okay, Sam!
You can come in now!
- [Sam] Girl time over so soon?
- We like to get things done.
- Ooh, you sure do.
That's the most beautiful
tree I have ever seen.
- One more thing.
What do you think?
- Perfect.
(Kathleen chuckles)
(humming "Twinkle, Twinkle Little Star")
- You gals do great work.
- Just one more thing to do.
- [Kathleen] Relax?
- No.
Wishlists for Santa.
I made them especially for you.
- Oh, that's so nice.
- This is the best gift
I've gotten in a long time.
- Then you definitely need
to fill out your wishlist.
- The only thing at this point,
the Good Lord would have to arrange.
- What is it, Sam?
- My great grandfather was a jeweler.
He made this by hand.
- I don't get the wish.
- It was my Christmas wish
to give this to my
daughter this Christmas.
- I'm sorry, Sam.
Is that why you were catching the bus?
- Yep.
I was finally on my way to find her.
- Write it down, Sam.
Christmas is two days
away and a lot of hopes
and prayers can come true before then.
- You're right.
Anything can happen.
(electronics beep)
- Finally.
Has anybody seen the remote?
- [Sam] Uh.
- [Kathleen] Thank you.
- What are you guys doing?
- [Kathleen] Getting
things back to normal.
(chattering on TV)
Oh, Lucy.
- [Lucy] I don't like normal.
- But this is what you wanted.
Now you'll be home for Christmas.
- What if I don't want what I wanted?
- Well, that's called a midlife crisis.
- Midlife?
I'm too young to die.
- You know, I should call your dad
and see if he's gotten news on the flight.
Where's your phone, Lucy?
Lucy.
- [Lucy] What?
- I need to plug in the phone to use it.
- [Sam] You don't want your dad to spend
Christmas alone, do you?
- It's in my backpack.
It's all there.
Oatmeal?
- Maple syrup.
- [Lucy] Do you have brown sugar?
- I can't hear you.
(machine whirring)
- What's your rush?
- Well, your dad's
flight lands in an hour,
we still have to dig out,
and I've got to get to the
restaurant for the lunch rush.
So, eat up.
Come on.
(door closes)
Coffee will be right there.
- And where do you think you're going?
- I've got a bus to catch.
- Did we discuss this?
- I didn't think it needed a discussion.
- Kathleen.
- Be ready in a minute.
- [Sam] Thanks.
- Kathleen.
- What?
- [Lucy] Sam thinks he's leaving.
- Did we discuss this?
- Well, in all the rush.
- People need time to prepare
for things like this, Sam.
- Things like?
- Goodbyes.
- When were you gonna tell us?
- It's Christmas Eve, Sam.
You don't want to spend
Christmas on a bus, do you?
- I wouldn't even do that.
- Well, I suppose I could stay.
- For Christmas?
- Well, for a little while.
- Yes.
(subdued music)
Okay, now we really gotta get going.
- It's all clear.
You shouldn't have any problems with that.
- Okay, I'll be back for
you at five o'clock sharp.
- Five o'clock.
- And we'll go straight to
the restaurant from here.
- So come hungry.
She's a great cook.
- Yes, ma'am.
- Hi, Sam.
- [Sam] What are you?
- Forgot Lucy's phone.
- Bye, Sam.
(knocking on window)
Okay, I got it.
(soft piano music)
Oh, wow.
You're quite a little artist, aren't you?
- Can you tell who it is?
- Uh, let's see.
Well, that's you, and me, and Sam.
- No, silly.
- It's me, you, and Daddy.
See?
- Oh, I see it now.
Hey, give this to me.
Okay, don't look.
(Kathleen chuckles)
It's a perfect day
In a not-so-perfect world
It's a perfect day
In a not-so-perfect world
Got a golden list of things
That make me smile
Through the mist of the fallen rain
Like a nice warm fire
Like an angel in disguise
That gently takes me by surprise
Like a melody that changes me
Makes me realize
It's a perfect day
It's a perfect day
Perfect day
In a not-so-perfect world
- Hey, Sam?
You better be dressed 'cause
I'm gonna get ready so fast
you will not believe it.
Did you clean up around here?
You did a good job.
I cannot wait for you to meet Andrew.
Sam?
(knocking on door)
Sam?
(subdued music)
(cell phone vibrating)
Andrew?
- [Lucy On Phone] Hello, Kathleen?
Are you there?
- Oh, hey, Lucy.
- [Lucy On Phone] Where are you?
We're at the restaurant.
- Um...
I'm sorry, Lucy.
I don't think I can make it.
Something's come up.
Can I talk to your dad?
Andrew?
It's my dad.
I just found out that he died.
No.
No, but I was gonna try to call him.
- [Kathleen's Mom On
Message] Katie, it's Mom.
Call me.
Katie, please.
Kathleen, it's about your father.
I really didn't want to
tell you this in a message,
but your father passed away last Monday.
(subdued music)
- Where is Sam?
(sobbing)
- [Sam] My final gifts for Katie.
The gift of faith that you would have
a love for God in your heart.
The gift of friendship.
That you would learn
to love others deeply.
The gift of peace.
That you would enjoy life to its fullest
and have a heart filled with peace.
The gift of family.
That you would embrace family
no matter the circumstance.
And most of all, the gift of forgiveness.
That you would discover the healing
and restoring power of forgiveness.
(knocking on door)
- Oh, 425.
I said, preheat the oven at 425 degrees.
I am.
- Hi, Mom.
- Katie?
- I hope I'm not too late.
- No, you're just in time.
- Honey, you better look at
this 'cause I think we got...
Uh-oh.
- Merry Christmas, Bill.
- Oh, good.
Happy tears.
Come in, both of you.
Do you have any bags?
- No, just this one.
I got it.
- Oh, gosh.
Oh, Katie.
- [Bill] Oh, honey.
Uh.
- Oh, I'll be there in a minute.
Bill, he's...
God love him.
He's a mess in the kitchen.
- [Bill] Honey?
- Oh, forgive me.
Make yourself at home.
Relax.
I'll be right back, baby.
You just relax.
Oh, Bill.
Let me have that.
Honey, what are you doing?
(soft piano music)
(Kathleen chuckles)
- I choose to forgive.
- Merry Christmas, Katie.
- Merry Christmas, Daddy.
(sighs)
(bright guitar music)
- Come on, Grandma.
- [Kathleen's Mom] Oh, honey.
You look so adorable.
All right, tell us all
about your costume now.
We've all got memories
inside our hearts they fill
Some sing to us a
clever and familiar tune
Some send a shiver down our
spine, especially with you
(door closes)
(door opens and closes)
(knocking on window)
Christmas snow on my window pane
Silent night
Such a cold, cold night
You slammed the door
I saw you walk away
My heart just stopped
A tear ran down my face
I saw you walk away
Outside my window pane
And every single day
I still think of you
Every single day
I still think of you
(blender whirring)
(ethereal music)
(doorbell rings)
- Comfort food has never been so cold?
(scoffs)
(chuckles)
(cell phone rings)
Yes, Martin, I'm reading it.
And no, it does not mean
we're closing for Christmas.
- [Woman On Phone] Kathleen?
Kathleen, are you there?
(cell phone rings)
- [Kathleen] Morning.
- Good morning, my dear.
- I know you've read it, so
you can cut the pleasantries.
- [Man] Uh, read what?
- The article.
What'd you guys do, hide
them when I walked in?
Hand them over.
- Oh...
Yes, well.
- Yes.
- It really isn't so bad.
- They called me a Gourmet Grinch.
- People should be with
their families on Christmas.
- Well, we're like family, right?
She's relentless.
- Shouldn't you just talk to her?
She said it was urgent.
- It's just her annual
Christmas invitation.
- It really wouldn't
hurt to close for a day.
- Not a chance.
I have mouths to feed.
- Not after that article.
- I will not abandon my
loyal holiday loners.
Besides, how.
- [Both] How can we feed
them if we aren't open?
(laughing)
- Yes, well.
Then we better rethink
your Christmas gift.
- Christmas gift?
- We were all going to pitch
in and change the locks.
(laughing)
- Martin, I could kiss you.
- Speaking of which.
- [Man] Tre bon. (laughs)
- Oh, stop.
Stop that.
Martin, if you don't put
that away, I'm gonna.
- Gonna what?
Have some fun?
You're a prude.
- That's right, I'm a prude.
I'm a Christmas prude.
Now, get back to work.
- She's the prude who stole Christmas.
- [Kathleen] I heard that.
(Martin sighs)
(Man laughs)
- Welcome to Kathleen's.
- You have some nerve
coming into my restaurant
after that review.
- Well, why, Kathleen?
The food's great.
There's just no Christmas cheer in here.
- Um, Kathleen, you have a call holding.
- Tell her I'm busy with a customer.
- [Martin] It's not your mother.
- Andrew?
Good.
I could use some good news today.
Please, don't tell me
you're calling to cancel.
- No, not canceling, but there
is a slight change of plans.
- [Kathleen On Phone] You read the review?
(laughs)
- [Andrew On Phone] No.
I am, however, bringing
more business with me.
- Oh, you are?
How much?
- Just one.
- Oh, that's great.
- Ah, food's here.
- [Waitress] Here you are, Kathleen.
- Oh, thank you, Hannah.
That looks perfect.
Great.
Watch it, the plate's hot.
I hope you like what I picked.
I had Claude make it especially for you.
- Mm.
Oh, this is amazing.
- Do you really like it?
- Mm.
Lucy, don't you think this looks amazing?
- What is that?
- It's Linguini Pescatori.
It's organic.
- I'm a chicketarian.
- A what?
A chicka?
- A chicketarian.
It's new.
- I don't eat meat, except for chicken.
- Well, would you like something else?
- Yeah.
- No, she's fine.
- I need to eat.
- How about a chicken salad sandwich?
- Hate it.
- Lucy.
- Chicken nuggets?
- I had that for lunch.
- A chicken-fried steak?
- Are you trying to trick me?
- Lucy, that is enough.
- Maybe I should talk to the chef.
- No, Kathleen.
Don't worry about it.
- Really, I'd like to.
- [Andrew] Hey, what's wrong with you?
- She's so.
- [Andrew] What?
- So not mom.
- That child is unbelievable.
- She's cute.
- She's a chicketarian.
No, don't pretend that that's normal.
What's the grossest thing that we have
that looks like chicken?
- We could...
Perhaps you should ask Andrew.
- What?
Oh.
I am so sorry and embarrassed.
- No, no, no.
Don't worry about it,
don't worry about it.
I mean, I'm sorry.
She's just a mess tonight.
I mean, this time of year
is just so hard on her.
- Hey, it's okay.
- No, I'm really sorry about this.
- No, don't be.
- Kathleen, you're great
and Lucy's great, too.
I really need you to see that.
Promise me you'll give her a chance?
And order her a corn dog, will ya?
(bright piano music)
- [Kathleen] How is it?
- Fine.
- What do you say?
- Goodnight, Kathleen.
- Thank you.
Thank you is the answer
that I was looking for.
(sighs)
- You can't stay for dessert?
- Oh, I'd love to.
But I still have a lot of packing to do
and then I have to drop
her off at the sitter.
- I don't need a sitter.
- You know what, though.
I could, maybe, drop by your place
on the way to the airport.
- Oh, that's great.
Then we can have dessert there.
- Okay then.
Thank you.
It was wonderful.
Really.
Go, go.
Don't be rude.
(bright music)
(doorbell rings)
I've been calling like crazy.
- She's not wearing pants.
- Lucy, come on.
She's wearing a robe.
Hey, do you sew?
- [Kathleen] What?
- [Andrew] Sew.
You know, like with a needle and thread.
- [Kathleen] Um, no.
- You can't leave me
with a pantless woman.
- Leave her?
What happened to the baby sitter?
- She canceled on us.
- [Lucy] Obviously.
(chattering on TV)
- Hey.
Now listen, I'm only
gonna be gone one night.
- A lot can happen in a night.
- I'll be back before you know it.
- In time for my show?
- I wouldn't miss it.
In fact, I think we can convince Kathleen
to save me a front-row seat.
- Sure.
- See?
- What about my costume?
- Well, I'm sure Kathleen
can take care of it, right?
- Of course.
- [Andrew] You don't mind?
- No.
- Thank you.
You're a life saver.
Thank you so much.
All right, Lucy.
Hey, I love you.
Be good, okay?
Okay, guys.
Bye-bye.
Have fun.
- Hurry.
- Don't rush me.
- I kind of have to.
- Well, technically we
have until tomorrow night.
- Yeah, but I need time to practice in it.
I'm a star.
- I thought you were an angel?
- Duh.
But I'm also the star of the show.
Besides, I have to go to the bathroom.
- Oh, okay.
New plan.
- Great.
- Um.
Do you have any more safety pins?
- No.
- Okay, we'll have to pick some up.
Come on.
Get your coat.
We're going to the store.
- I'll be fine.
You can go without me.
- No, I don't think that's a good idea.
Your dad put me in charge.
I can't just leave you here.
- Yes, you can.
My dad does it all the time.
Besides, I'm 10 years old.
I'm not a child.
- Okay, I'll be back in 15 minutes tops.
- Kay.
- Don't budge from this couch.
- Kay.
- [Man On Radio] A cold
front's passing through
on its way from the West for the holidays,
so here's a little something
to get you in the mood.
Oh, the weather outside is frightful
But the fire is so delightful
And since we've no place to go
(Kathleen gasps)
(tires squeal)
- Oh!
(subdued music)
I'm sorry.
("We Wish You a Merry
Christmas" playing on PA)
Oh.
- Your total comes to $18.97.
- Okay.
- Would you care to give
a dollar to the children?
- What children?
- You know, the...
Merry Christmas.
(tense music)
- Seriously?
(dramatic music)
- Need some help?
- [Kathleen] No, thank you.
- Did you lose something?
- No.
I'm fine, thanks.
You can leave.
- How about you let me
carry that heavy bag for ya?
(Kathleen gasps)
Now look what you did.
- Back in my day when a lady
asked you to leave her alone,
you left her alone.
- How about you just
mind your own business
and go back to your shelter?
- Fun's over.
Go back to your home and
leave the nice lady be.
- Like I said before,
this is none of your business, old man.
- I'm making it my business.
(skateboard thuds)
- [Kathleen] Mister?
Mister, are you okay?
(Kathleen yells)
- Are you okay?
- Am I okay?
Are you okay?
You got a nasty hit.
- I'm fine.
Did you lose anything?
- Oh.
I can't find my keys.
I don't know where my
cell phone is either.
I should call the police.
- No, no.
I mean...
Please, don't call them on my account.
I'm fine.
- Okay.
- Oh, good.
You found 'em.
- Thank you for your help.
- It's quite all right.
- You're, um...
You're hurt.
- Oh, I'm fine.
There.
All better.
(laughs)
- Listen, I'm so sorry.
I almost ran over you.
- Yes, I guess you did.
- I should've apologized sooner.
- Sam.
- Sam.
Right.
(chuckles)
Merry Christmas.
- Merry Christmas.
- Can I give you a ride somewhere?
- I guess I could use a ride
to the bus station downtown.
- Come on.
- Well, this doesn't look too promising.
According to the sign, they're closed.
I guess I missed my bus.
- You better come with me.
It's my turn, anyway.
- Your turn?
- I almost killed you, you saved my life.
I'm not gonna let you
die out here in the cold.
Come on, get in.
- Well.
- Um...
So, um...
Why don't you just wait over there
and I'll get some linens
for the guest room.
- Okay.
- Okay.
(upbeat music on TV)
- You didn't mention you have a daughter.
- Oh.
No, I don't.
Oh, my goodness.
I can't believe I forgot about her.
- You forgot you had a daughter?
- Oh, no.
I don't have a daughter.
I hardly know her.
I'm just watching her for someone.
- She looks worn out.
- Good.
She's been difficult to deal with.
- Well, I can take it from here
if you point me in the right direction.
- Well, it's just there.
- Oh.
Well then, goodnight.
- Goodnight.
(soft piano music)
(Kathleen grunting)
(sighs)
Lucy?
(tense music)
(switch clicking)
Lucy?
- [Lucy] Oh, my gosh!
- (gasps) Lucy!
Hey, hold it right there.
Don't move.
- You're gonna need more than that today.
- Well, good morning, sleepy head.
- Lucy, why didn't you wake me up?
What time is it?
You're gonna be late for school.
- School's canceled.
- Canceled?
- Yeah, look outside.
- Last night's cold front
was an ice and snow storm.
- I still can't find my phone.
- You don't have a
phone here at the house?
- I only have a cell phone.
I must've left it at the restaurant.
I'm just gonna have to go get it.
- I wouldn't go out there.
- How bad could it be?
We're leaving in five minutes.
(switch clicks)
- Here.
We can open it if we release
it here at the opener.
- I don't think you're
getting out of here.
- I need my phone.
- It's solid ice.
- Well, I'll just have to dig.
- Well, call me if you need me.
- Oh, Lucy.
Lucy.
Lucy, Lucy, you stay
out here with me, okay?
- No, it's freezing.
- Then do jumping jacks or run in place.
I don't care what you do,
but just do it out here.
- Can I at least get my
backpack so I can read?
- Okay, but then come right back out here.
- Fine.
(upbeat music)
- Seriously?
(grunting)
(breathing heavily)
(grunting)
Whatcha reading?
- A book.
- Ah, really?
What's it about?
- A vampire woman who holds
little girls and old men hostage
and threatens them with butcher knives.
- So, it's a love story.
- Okay, all the food
that was in the fridge
is now in the cooler.
- You didn't have to do that.
- I just want to help.
Can I fix you guys breakfast?
- Pancakes.
- Nothing too messy.
- One batch of not-too-messy
pancakes coming right up.
- Can I go in and help him?
- Fine, whatever.
(cell phone ringing)
- Hello?
Still snowed in.
No, he's inside and his name is Sam.
Uh-huh, he's real nice.
Kathleen doesn't like him, though.
Yeah, she finally woke up.
Kay.
My dad wants to talk to you
and he doesn't sound too happy.
- Hello?
(bright piano music)
- You've got moves.
- Oh, that's nothing.
Watch this.
- Is that for me?
- This plate is for the first
person who asks politely.
- May I please have that pancake?
- Yes, you may, young lady.
- Syrup?
I mean, syrup, please.
Manners.
- Never go out of style.
- I lend a helping hand
and this is what I get.
(head thumps)
Ow.
- [Andrew On Phone] What was that?
Where are you?
- I'm hiding in the shower
and I'm banging my head against the wall.
(Andrew laughing)
Yeah, okay.
That's enough.
- [Andrew On Phone] Well,
you're in some state.
Serves you right.
- We have a battery to reserve.
(Andrew laughs)
Just call me when you find
out about your flight, okay?
- [Andrew On Phone] Okay, take care.
- You, too.
(Kathleen screams)
(Lucy chuckles)
- Did you have a nice chat?
- Yes, thank you very much.
- We saved you some pancakes.
- No, thank you.
I'm not hungry.
- You have to try them.
Sam is a genius chef.
- I need that phone back.
- Why?
I don't think my dad wants
to talk with you again.
- Because I need to
talk to my genius chef.
- Well, I'm bored.
Find me something to do
and you can use my phone.
(scoffs)
- You.
- Oh, my gosh.
I love vintage.
Where'd you get all this stuff?
- Life, I guess.
- Weird life.
- The games are up there.
Pick something, would ya?
- You have somewhere to be?
- I have important calls to make.
- On my phone.
- Hey, you picked the deal.
- I want this one.
- Phone.
- You're like a child.
(subdued piano music)
(plastic clattering)
- Oh. (laughs)
- Well, Katie.
Seems like it's down to just you and me.
- Yep.
- [Kathleen] It's Kathleen.
May I be excused?
- Honey, it's family night.
Let's just finish the game.
She's really very good at this.
I mean, she beats me every time.
- Well, this I gotta see.
But maybe some other night.
It's getting late.
- [Lucy] Whatcha doin'?
- Inspiring myself.
- I imagine you'd like
to play a game with me.
(sighs)
(phone beeping)
- Oh, Martin, great.
Please, tell me you're at the restaurant.
No, I'm stuck, too.
(laughing)
- You, my dear, have a great imagination.
- My therapist says I use it to cope.
- Oh, yeah?
What do you think?
- I think an imagination
is like a lollipop.
- A lollipop?
- Yeah.
Like, you know, whenever you
go to the doctor's office
and you get a shot?
Well, they give you a lollipop
and it makes the pain go away.
- You've gotten a lot of shots
in your life, haven't you?
- Yeah.
- Me, too.
- I know.
- Oh, yeah?
How do you know?
- You have a good imagination.
Okay, let's play.
- The phone is dying.
Look, plan on being open at Christmas.
Don't give me a hard time about it, okay?
I'm not in the mood.
- Oh!
(laughs)
- Don't feel bad.
I used to play this game with
my mom and dad all the time.
You should've seen my mom.
She was great.
I don't think I ever
saw her break the ice.
- Sounds like she's got the touch.
- Yeah, there was no one like her.
- Was?
- She's gone.
- Where is she, if I can ask?
- Heaven, I think.
- I'm sorry to hear that.
I know it's tough losing a loved one.
- It's the worst.
But how do you know?
- I'm old.
Trust me.
I've lost my share of
people along the way.
- They all died?
- No.
Some of it was my own doing.
- Wait a second.
You're not like a serial killer, are you?
- What?
No.
- But...
But you said that.
- What I meant was it was my fault.
Like I drove people away.
I'm not a killer.
- That's a relief 'cause
I do not approve of that.
(Sam laughs)
- What don't you approve of?
- Murder.
- Oh.
Well, that's good 'cause I
don't approve of that either.
- [Lucy] You know what
else I don't approve of?
- What's that?
- Stealing.
My phone, Kathleen.
- Well, it's in my office and
I'd hardly call that stealing.
- I'm gonna go call my dad.
Make sure he's okay.
- Okay, well make it quick
because the battery's almost dead.
And don't touch anything.
- Do you want to play?
(phone beeping)
- Dad?
- [Andrew On Phone] Hi, honey.
- Who do you like better, Mom or Kathleen?
- [Andrew On Phone] Lucy.
- You know you can't replace her.
- [Andrew On Phone] I know, honey.
She was special.
- She is special.
- [Andrew On Phone] And so is Kathleen.
- Yeah, but she's special in a bad way.
She has no Christmas
decorations in her house.
- [Andrew On Phone] I want
you to give her a chance.
Please, Lucy?
- Okay.
Fine.
When are you coming home?
(phone beeps)
- Come on, baby.
Light as a feather.
- Concentrate.
- I can't concentrate with you talking.
Oh!
(Sam laughing)
Come on.
This is a stupid game.
- You've lost it.
(laughing)
- In all my years, who would've thought?
- You gotta be kidding me.
- Stuck inside on Christmas.
- And I don't even know you people.
(Sam and Kathleen laughing)
- Lucy?
- Do you really think we're gonna
be stuck here for Christmas?
- Well, by the looks of
it, it's a possibility.
- I hate this Christmas.
I want to wear a costume
and be the star of my Christmas pageant.
And I want to see my dad.
And I want to open presents
on Christmas morning.
- Oh, come on, Lucy.
You'll be able to open your presents.
Just on a different day.
(sobbing)
- Hey, let's take it one day at a time.
Okay, kiddo?
- Okay.
But it would take a miracle to
save this day from stinking.
- I think I have my first
ever kid-friendly idea.
- That will be a miracle.
- And now, our feature presentation.
(upbeat music)
(chuckles)
(Lucy laughing)
- [Lucy] Oh, no.
(chuckles)
- In those days a decree
went out from Cesar Augustus
that all the world should be registered.
- Chi-ching.
- And so, Joseph went to
his hometown of Bethlehem
to be registered with his betrothed Mary,
who was with child.
(Kathleen laughing)
And while they were there,
the time came to give birth.
And so the Virgin Mary gave
birth to her first-born son,
and wrapped him in swaddling clothes,
and laid him in a manger because there was
no room for him at the inn.
(laughs)
Meanwhile, in a nearby field.
(Lucy imitating sheep)
- Don't look into the light.
- Who are you?
I'm terrified.
- Don't be afraid.
I am an angel.
- A real angel?
- Don't ask questions.
I'm here to announce
a joyful event to you.
To the world, actually.
A child has been born in Bethlehem.
He is the savior of the universe.
Messiah and master of the world.
Look for a baby wrapped in
a blanket lying in a manger.
Peace be to all and to all a good night.
(Kathleen chuckles)
(applauding)
- Yay!
Good job.
- Thank you.
- Do you want some soup?
- Yeah.
- Oh, it's gonna be good.
- There's a part of this
story that has become
very special to me and I'd
like to read it if it's okay.
- Yeah.
(subdued music)
(Sam clears throat)
- Let's see.
And when the time came for Mary and Joseph
to present the child to the Lord,
they took baby Jesus to the temple.
In Jerusalem, at the very same time,
there was a man, Simeon by name.
A good man.
And God's spirit was upon him.
And God revealed to him that he would
see the Messiah before he died.
Lead by the spirit,
Simeon went to the temple
just as the parents of
Jesus brought the child
to be presented before God.
And Simeon, seeing the baby,
took him into his arms
and he blessed God saying,
God, you can release your servant.
Release me in peace as you have promised.
With my own eyes I have
seen your salvation
and now it's in the open for all to see.
A light for all the world.
- I've never heard that
part of the story before.
- It's become very special to me.
- [Lucy] I've always wanted to do this.
- You've never had s'mores?
- I've had s'mores, but my
dad makes them in a microwave.
- (laughs) Well, that's just criminal.
- Kathleen, how come you
always have to be perfect?
- I don't know how to
answer that question.
- Well, how about with the truth?
My dad says you should
always tell the truth.
- I guess I just want people to like me.
(laughing)
- Lucy.
- Sorry.
It's just, I like the not-perfect
Kathleen so much better.
- I'd have to agree.
(scoffs)
- Yeah, well you're like a
saint and you're just a kid.
You don't understand anything
about what life is like.
- Okay.
First of all, I know a lot about life
because I'm really smart.
And second, I've been seeing
a therapist since I was eight.
- So?
- I know about feelings and
I'm good at tracing them.
- (scoffs) What?
- You need to find your root, Kathleen.
It's usually like your worst day ever.
Like the moment you knew that you
were always going to be different.
Well, do you know it?
- Yeah.
- And do you want to talk about it?
- Not really.
- Figures.
- What?
- You just don't want to let go.
- Ladies.
- At least I'm trying
to deal with my issues.
- Issues?
Seriously?
You're 10.
Why don't you just let it go
and get on with your life?
- It's getting late.
I should be in bed.
- Lucy, wait.
- Thank you, Sam, for a wonderful evening.
And thank you, Kathleen, for ruining it.
- You're welcome!
(subdued music)
That was bad, wasn't it?
(sighs)
Look at this place.
- It's not that bad.
- (laughs) It's a mess.
- It suits you.
- You're right.
I'm a mess.
You know, every time I
think I have it worked out,
something small happens and, boom,
I'm right back there again.
- Back where?
- Watching my dad leave.
- Oh.
That's hard.
- My whole world collapsed.
I was only 10.
Lucy's age.
I've lived it so many times,
but I always feel the same way.
I feel alone.
- What about your mom?
Was she gone, too?
- My mother?
No, she was very much there.
- [Sam] You didn't get along?
- We used to, but then she remarried.
- [Sam] Bad guy?
- Oh, he was fine, but he wasn't my dad.
I didn't want a new dad.
I blamed my mom for everything.
And so, I moved out as soon as I could
'cause I just wanted to get away.
But then the only person
around to blame was myself.
- It's not your fault.
You were just a kid.
- That's what everyone says.
- It's the truth.
- The truth is, my dad
didn't care enough about me.
Not enough.
- How can you know that?
- Because I was there when he left.
We just finished decorating
the Christmas tree.
It was beautiful.
It was simple, but it was perfect.
I used to like to lie
under it all curled up.
And that's where I was when I heard him
rush down the hall and out the front door.
He didn't see me, so I went to the window.
I knocked on it.
He stopped and he looked right at me.
And he turned and walked away.
- Have you ever tried to
get in touch with him?
- Why?
He's the one who left.
He could find me if he wanted to.
- It's not always that simple.
You know, your story could
just as soon be mine.
- Did your dad leave you?
- No.
It was me who did the leaving.
- How could you do that?
- It's complicated.
My dad was all messed up.
I didn't want a thing to do with him.
As I got older, I started my own family.
Funny thing was, I
turned out just like him.
The anger, the drinking, the women.
It devastated my wife.
But I couldn't bring myself to change.
So I left.
- You gave up.
- That was the worst day of my life.
But I wanted to change.
- [Kathleen] What was stopping you?
- I thought it was too late.
Didn't think I deserved it.
And then, I met a young man
who told me it wasn't too late.
He told me there was hope for me.
And I wanted it to be true.
He invited me over for
dinner with his family
and he showed me
what I'd been looking for my entire life.
A chance at forgiveness.
A chance to change.
And right then and there,
I was Simeon.
You heard the words in
the story like salvation?
Well, I experienced it.
It was like a light that went off
and lit up my entire world.
And it changed everything.
- Did you go back to your family?
- No, not yet.
I'm working on that one.
- But you said you changed.
- And it's true.
Everything about me has changed.
Circumstances haven't.
I'm sorting through an
entire life of bad decisions.
- Do you think I should
look for my father?
- Some things in life are worth seeking.
And family is one of them.
- Well, like I said.
He could find me if he wanted to.
- What about your mother?
- It's been too long.
I wouldn't know what to say to her.
I haven't spoken to her in years.
She still calls at Christmas.
I don't usually pick up, but
I listen to the messages.
- [Sam] Maybe you should talk to her.
- I don't know.
- You'll never know unless you try.
- Thanks, Sam.
I'll sleep on it.
Good morning.
- Good morning, Kathleen.
- You have such beautiful hair.
You should wear it down sometimes.
- My dad says it's just like my mom's.
- I bet she was beautiful.
I wanted to talk to you about last night.
I'm sorry.
- Me, too.
- We're quite a pair, aren't we?
- Yeah.
My therapist says I act bad sometimes
'cause I'm afraid I'll get left out.
- By your dad?
- He just gets so busy with work.
Then he always wants to see you.
My dad likes you a lot.
- Well, he loves you a lot.
Not everyone can say that.
- Kathleen, how come
loving people's so scary?
(subdued music)
- Maybe because you can't
make them love you back?
- Yeah, and you don't
want 'em to leave you out.
- Yeah, that's the scariest part.
- Do you love my dad?
- I think I'm too scared to say.
- Well, I think he's
gonna love you real soon.
Can you make sure my dad
doesn't forget about me?
- That's never gonna happen.
Not to you.
You're as unforgettable as they come.
Come here.
Come on.
Let's finish your hair and
get some breakfast, okay?
(Lucy laughing)
- Hey, you know what today is?
- Wednesday?
- Garbage day?
- Guys, it's the eve of Christmas Eve.
- How could I have forgotten?
- I don't know about you
guys, but in the real world,
I would be making a
gingerbread house right now.
- [Kathleen] Problem.
- What?
- We used up all the eggs.
- Eggs?
- For the gingerbread.
- I usually get my gingerbread
house out of a box.
Got one of those?
- No.
- You know, when I was a little boy,
we made some pretty nifty houses out of
graham crackers and candy.
- We have graham crackers.
- We have candy?
(upbeat music)
- Hey, what time is it?
- 10 o'clock.
- Good, we're right on schedule.
- [Kathleen] You have a schedule?
- Well, more of a to-do list.
- And what exactly do you have to do?
- Well, this, of course.
But we also need to make
Christmas wishlists,
decorate the living room, and
play a game of hide and seek.
- Well, I'll be.
- What?
- That's exactly what I want to do today.
(all laughing)
- Well, this was just meant to be.
- One,
two,
three,
four,
five,
six,
seven,
eight.
(door closes)
Careful.
Nine,
Ready or not, here I come.
Gotcha.
- Hey, I'm supposed to be the one hiding.
Are you sad?
- No, I'm good.
- That's pretty.
- Thanks.
I made it when I was a kid.
(knocking on door)
- [Lucy] It's Sam.
- Ho, ho, ho.
Merry Christmas.
- It's a Christmas tree.
- Looks more like a bush.
- It's a Christmas bush.
- Okay, come on.
(subdued music)
Okay, Sam!
You can come in now!
- [Sam] Girl time over so soon?
- We like to get things done.
- Ooh, you sure do.
That's the most beautiful
tree I have ever seen.
- One more thing.
What do you think?
- Perfect.
(Kathleen chuckles)
(humming "Twinkle, Twinkle Little Star")
- You gals do great work.
- Just one more thing to do.
- [Kathleen] Relax?
- No.
Wishlists for Santa.
I made them especially for you.
- Oh, that's so nice.
- This is the best gift
I've gotten in a long time.
- Then you definitely need
to fill out your wishlist.
- The only thing at this point,
the Good Lord would have to arrange.
- What is it, Sam?
- My great grandfather was a jeweler.
He made this by hand.
- I don't get the wish.
- It was my Christmas wish
to give this to my
daughter this Christmas.
- I'm sorry, Sam.
Is that why you were catching the bus?
- Yep.
I was finally on my way to find her.
- Write it down, Sam.
Christmas is two days
away and a lot of hopes
and prayers can come true before then.
- You're right.
Anything can happen.
(electronics beep)
- Finally.
Has anybody seen the remote?
- [Sam] Uh.
- [Kathleen] Thank you.
- What are you guys doing?
- [Kathleen] Getting
things back to normal.
(chattering on TV)
Oh, Lucy.
- [Lucy] I don't like normal.
- But this is what you wanted.
Now you'll be home for Christmas.
- What if I don't want what I wanted?
- Well, that's called a midlife crisis.
- Midlife?
I'm too young to die.
- You know, I should call your dad
and see if he's gotten news on the flight.
Where's your phone, Lucy?
Lucy.
- [Lucy] What?
- I need to plug in the phone to use it.
- [Sam] You don't want your dad to spend
Christmas alone, do you?
- It's in my backpack.
It's all there.
Oatmeal?
- Maple syrup.
- [Lucy] Do you have brown sugar?
- I can't hear you.
(machine whirring)
- What's your rush?
- Well, your dad's
flight lands in an hour,
we still have to dig out,
and I've got to get to the
restaurant for the lunch rush.
So, eat up.
Come on.
(door closes)
Coffee will be right there.
- And where do you think you're going?
- I've got a bus to catch.
- Did we discuss this?
- I didn't think it needed a discussion.
- Kathleen.
- Be ready in a minute.
- [Sam] Thanks.
- Kathleen.
- What?
- [Lucy] Sam thinks he's leaving.
- Did we discuss this?
- Well, in all the rush.
- People need time to prepare
for things like this, Sam.
- Things like?
- Goodbyes.
- When were you gonna tell us?
- It's Christmas Eve, Sam.
You don't want to spend
Christmas on a bus, do you?
- I wouldn't even do that.
- Well, I suppose I could stay.
- For Christmas?
- Well, for a little while.
- Yes.
(subdued music)
Okay, now we really gotta get going.
- It's all clear.
You shouldn't have any problems with that.
- Okay, I'll be back for
you at five o'clock sharp.
- Five o'clock.
- And we'll go straight to
the restaurant from here.
- So come hungry.
She's a great cook.
- Yes, ma'am.
- Hi, Sam.
- [Sam] What are you?
- Forgot Lucy's phone.
- Bye, Sam.
(knocking on window)
Okay, I got it.
(soft piano music)
Oh, wow.
You're quite a little artist, aren't you?
- Can you tell who it is?
- Uh, let's see.
Well, that's you, and me, and Sam.
- No, silly.
- It's me, you, and Daddy.
See?
- Oh, I see it now.
Hey, give this to me.
Okay, don't look.
(Kathleen chuckles)
It's a perfect day
In a not-so-perfect world
It's a perfect day
In a not-so-perfect world
Got a golden list of things
That make me smile
Through the mist of the fallen rain
Like a nice warm fire
Like an angel in disguise
That gently takes me by surprise
Like a melody that changes me
Makes me realize
It's a perfect day
It's a perfect day
Perfect day
In a not-so-perfect world
- Hey, Sam?
You better be dressed 'cause
I'm gonna get ready so fast
you will not believe it.
Did you clean up around here?
You did a good job.
I cannot wait for you to meet Andrew.
Sam?
(knocking on door)
Sam?
(subdued music)
(cell phone vibrating)
Andrew?
- [Lucy On Phone] Hello, Kathleen?
Are you there?
- Oh, hey, Lucy.
- [Lucy On Phone] Where are you?
We're at the restaurant.
- Um...
I'm sorry, Lucy.
I don't think I can make it.
Something's come up.
Can I talk to your dad?
Andrew?
It's my dad.
I just found out that he died.
No.
No, but I was gonna try to call him.
- [Kathleen's Mom On
Message] Katie, it's Mom.
Call me.
Katie, please.
Kathleen, it's about your father.
I really didn't want to
tell you this in a message,
but your father passed away last Monday.
(subdued music)
- Where is Sam?
(sobbing)
- [Sam] My final gifts for Katie.
The gift of faith that you would have
a love for God in your heart.
The gift of friendship.
That you would learn
to love others deeply.
The gift of peace.
That you would enjoy life to its fullest
and have a heart filled with peace.
The gift of family.
That you would embrace family
no matter the circumstance.
And most of all, the gift of forgiveness.
That you would discover the healing
and restoring power of forgiveness.
(knocking on door)
- Oh, 425.
I said, preheat the oven at 425 degrees.
I am.
- Hi, Mom.
- Katie?
- I hope I'm not too late.
- No, you're just in time.
- Honey, you better look at
this 'cause I think we got...
Uh-oh.
- Merry Christmas, Bill.
- Oh, good.
Happy tears.
Come in, both of you.
Do you have any bags?
- No, just this one.
I got it.
- Oh, gosh.
Oh, Katie.
- [Bill] Oh, honey.
Uh.
- Oh, I'll be there in a minute.
Bill, he's...
God love him.
He's a mess in the kitchen.
- [Bill] Honey?
- Oh, forgive me.
Make yourself at home.
Relax.
I'll be right back, baby.
You just relax.
Oh, Bill.
Let me have that.
Honey, what are you doing?
(soft piano music)
(Kathleen chuckles)
- I choose to forgive.
- Merry Christmas, Katie.
- Merry Christmas, Daddy.
(sighs)
(bright guitar music)
- Come on, Grandma.
- [Kathleen's Mom] Oh, honey.
You look so adorable.
All right, tell us all
about your costume now.
We've all got memories
inside our hearts they fill
Some sing to us a
clever and familiar tune
Some send a shiver down our
spine, especially with you