Christmas Lover's Anonymous (2021) Movie Script
1
I thought you and Mark
were havin' lunch today.
He said he had to go to work.
He's working on a Saturday?
Maybe.
Or maybe he's shopping
for a special gift.
We've been dating
three years now.
And you think
he's gonna propose?
Well he said he had to
talk to me after Christmas
and he's been acting really
weird lately, so maybe.
Oh.
You're not excited for me?
Of course, but
you guys are just so
different.
I know he doesn't
love Christmas.
But you know what they
say, "Opposites attract."
They you say that about
accent walls and other-
- Mark.
- Speak of the Mark.
- Hey.
Hey, just wonderin' if you
wanted to go to dinner tonight.
Oh, I'd love to.
But Lindsey and I are
decorating, remember?
I thought you were
gonna come over.
We could order takeout.
All right, you know
I hate decorating.
That's why you decorated
my place for me.
What about tomorrow night?
Tomorrow, tomorrow.
Well I've gotta go and
collect and wrap the gifts
for the toy drive and
help decorate Main Street,
collect the ornaments for the
neighborhood gift exchange
and then bake cookies
for the bake sale.
I thought you were gonna
come over and help.
I'd just get in the way.
What about Monday night?
We promised to decorate
for the fundraiser.
No, you promised.
How about Tuesday night?
What's going on?
You're still taking me to the
fundraiser on Friday, right?
Look, I was just hoping
to have some alone time.
Oh, okay.
We can have dinner, just
the two of us on Tuesday.
Okay, I'll see you then.
Okay.
Tuesday, Tuesday, Tuesday.
I think it's Tuesday.
I think it's gonna be Tuesday.
Tuesday.
Have you heard anything about
the manuscript you submitted?
Oh, I got the latest
rejection letter last week.
Keep trying.
Why don't you write
about Christmas?
I do love Christmas.
Almost obsessively.
You do too much, Kat.
Aw, do not.
Mom told me you
volunteered to bake
for the bake sale again.
Well you know me, any
excuse to decorate cookies.
She said you joined the
city planning committee
to help with
Christmas decorations.
Well they needed the help.
And you've committed
to the toy drive again.
Imagine those children's faces
when they open their gifts.
Aren't you already in charge
of their Christmas fundraiser?
Well it's for the kids.
Don't you remember the magic
of being a child on
Christmas morning?
I don't want any kid
to miss out on that.
I get it,
but I worry that you're
jeopardizing your own Christmas.
Christmas is a time of giving.
But you give
way too much, Kat.
I can't say no if
someone needs my help.
That's your fatal
flaw, you can't say no.
I can so.
Remember when you
tried to get out
of our neighborhood
ornament exchange?
That was different.
And now you're doing
all the collecting
and distribution for them.
Exactly my point.
'Kay.
Well I guess I feel like
I'm Santa's little helper.
An overly-caffeinated
one who can't say no.
Ooh, a peppermint
mocha with whipped cream
and a candy cane sounds
great right about now.
Hmm?
Hmm?
Hmm, hmm, hmm?
I know what you're doing.
But I can't say no to that.
Oh, wait 'til you see my dress
for the Christmas fundraiser.
I got the seamstress
to make Mark
a matching bow tie and vest.
For Mark.
I'm sure he's gonna love that.
Oh, you made it.
Oh, I'm so glad you're here.
- So am I.
- Come in, come in.
It's cold.
Yes, it is cold.
Want me to take this?
Thanks. I'm glad to be here.
All right.
Where is she?
Uncle Hunter.
Hey.
Oh my Lord.
What'd you eat?
I don't know.
- Rocks?
- No.
- Iron.
- Mm-mmm.
- Yes.
- No.
Okay.
How'd you get so heavy?
There she is, my favorite niece.
Your only niece.
Yes, you're gettin' so big.
I'm 10 now.
Whoa.
You are so old.
I should've brought
you a walking cane.
But instead, I brought you that.
Thanks.
Oh, I got you somethin' else.
There you go.
Thanks, Uncle Hunter.
How about you get
ready for bed, sweetie?
She's not in the
baby dolls anymore.
Not really.
I tried.
Thanks.
You hungry?
Starving.
Yes.
Come on, let's feed you.
Are you sure you're
gonna be okay living here
and working for our
tiny TV news station
when you're so used
to the Big Apple?
Hey, Rainbow has its charm.
Besides, I wanna be here
for you and Charlotte.
You know, I'm sorry he left.
It's okay.
It's tough, but
we'll get through it
especially with you here.
Thank you.
Love you.
Thank you.
Okay.
That's great.
Oh, looks like it's leanin'
a little bit to the left.
No.
It looks straight to me.
I'm just kidding.
It looks fine.
But the ribbon should be
on top, don't you think?
What? No.
The bow always
goes at the bottom.
You're messing with me again.
Okay, got it.
Do you mind?
Well I heard they have
the best cookies in town,
but I didn't realize
it was so tough
to get through the door.
Oh, pardon me.
The door, kind sir.
Thank you.
Hope the door doesn't
hit you on the way in.
You said you
wanted to talk to me?
Hey, thanks for decorating
and you didn't have to do
that on your lunch hour.
It's my pleasure.
Just a reminder: I need
to leave early today
to collect donations
for the toy drive,
but I'm gonna come in early
tomorrow to make up for it.
Actually, I need to talk
to you about something.
Sure.
I need you to go to New
Mexico for a new account.
But we're weeks
away from Christmas.
I'm in charge of a
fundraiser this Friday
and then I need to
deliver toys on Saturday.
I volunteered to be Mrs. Claus.
There has to be someone
else who can do it.
Can you ask around?
Please?
Don't worry.
I'll find someone.
Wonderful.
Listen, kiddo.
I gotta let you go.
You're firing me?
But I've been here five years.
Right before Christmas?
Katrina, you're a hard
worker and extremely talented.
But every Christmas,
you get busier.
You're here, but clearly
your mind is elsewhere.
He fired me.
Yeah.
Well maybe
this'll give you time
to work on your books.
You know what?
Have you heard of income?
I need it.
Maybe you can freelance
or even check out
the local paper
and see if they need some help.
Maybe.
This day could
not get any worse.
Hey, I'm sorry about your job.
Thanks, but I'm
not complaining.
We finally get some
alone time together
and I made some extra
cookies just for you.
Now don't lemme forget.
Before you leave, I've gotta
give you a bow tie and vest
that you're wearing
for the fundraiser.
About that.
And we need to be ready
to leave at 6:00 sharp.
The party doesn't
start 'til 7:00.
I know, but we can't be late.
Look, Kat.
I just want everything
to be perfect.
I know you always want
everything to be perfect.
But-
But what?
I can't do this anymore.
What are you saying?
Kat, you love Christmas
and that's great for you,
but I am so tired of
hearing Christmas songs
two months before Christmas.
Christmas is the most
wonderful time of the year.
But you take it to an extreme.
You send cards to
over 100 people
you haven't seen in years.
Well that's why I send
them, to keep in touch.
And then there's
no time for me.
Us.
And I wanna spend
more time together.
Sometimes you don't like doing
things that I love to do.
You're right.
We're too different.
This is never gonna work.
That's not what I meant.
Katrina, I wanted to
wait 'til after Christmas,
but I can't.
I need a break.
Oh.
Okay.
Well you don't have to come
to the parties this weekend.
No, no.
I need a break from
this, from us, from you.
But I thought you
were gonna propose.
What?
No.
I should go.
No!
No!
Can't believe he broke up
with you before Christmas.
I don't know if I'm more upset
about Mark breaking up with me
or me breaking
Grandpa Marks' Santa.
Why don't we go
grab some pizza?
I'm too depressed
to leave the house.
Okay, it's a girls' night in.
Want some hot cocoa?
I can order some food
while we watch a nice
romantic Christmas movie, hmm?
Yeah.
Let's watch what
I will never have.
Okay, no movie.
Hot cocoa comin' up.
Another rejection.
Another rejection.
Figures!
"Things will get better,"
isn't that what you always say?
No, I never said that.
Nothing gets better ever.
Why don't you write
something about Christmas?
It might cheer you up.
I'll write something
about Christmas all right.
I'll write something
about Christmas.
I'll leave this
right here for you.
"Just say no to Santa.
Just
say no
to ho,
ho,
"ho."
Maybe we should
put on a movie.
"Pressure of relationships."
This is interesting.
Not what I expected
but very entertaining,
especially coming from you.
Yeah, it was very therapeutic.
You know, you're probably
not the only person
who's felt stressed out
during the holidays.
I'm not stressed.
I'm just sad.
Are you goin'
to the parties this weekend?
I'm going
back to bed.
You should try to
get this published.
I'm goin' to work now.
Catch up with you later.
Well viewers,
today we have the author of
"Just Say No to Ho Ho Ho"
Katrina Marks.
Welcome, Katrina.
Hi.
So I hear that you
are a journalist.
Yes, I work for a small
paper in Greenbough.
So what made you decide
to write this book?
Well last year,
I tried to have the
perfect Christmas.
But when things
went terribly wrong,
I realized that I was so focused
on the stuff of Christmas
and not the true
meaning of the holiday.
Well yes.
I read the book and
what I understood is
that we should not
really feel obligated
to write down a checklist
durin' the holiday.
Right. Exactly.
So does that mean that this
year you will not be doin'
any of the usual traditional
Christmas things?
No.
I mean
yes.
Yes.
I refuse to worry
about making sure
I've got the perfect gifts
or the perfect decorations
or the perfect outfit or
even the perfect date.
I'm not gonna run
myself ragged anymore
tryin' to be involved in every
fundraiser or losing sleep
to make sure I've got everything
done in time for Christmas.
So
Yes, I won't be
doing it this year.
Well hey, that's enough said.
Ms. Katrina Marks is not
celebrating Christmas this year,
so don't expect
a gift or a card.
But check out her book
"Just Say No to Ho Ho Ho".
This is so exciting.
You're a published author.
What have I done?
The publisher said your
sales went through the roof
after that interview.
Aren't you excited?
I don't know.
The advanced payment
plus the money from the book
sales can't hurt, right?
Katrina, this should
open doors for you.
People are loving the book.
It's a hit.
But what if I wanna decorate?
We can still decorate.
But we'll keep the
windows covered,
the doors shut and
not have anyone over.
Of course this means
you'll have to do
all your shopping online.
And if you do go out for
anything Christmas related,
you'll have to wear a disguise.
Think of it as a covert mission.
This is a lot to take in.
You can still go
wild with decorations
in both of our rooms.
This is exciting.
The book is a bestseller.
My sister's a famous publisher.
You don't need
any more coffee.
Cocoa, good idea.
There's a thinker.
Questions on assignments?
Hey April, did you do
somethin' new with your hair?
Looks great.
Thanks, but I still
don't forgive you
for stealin' that tip
about the pipeline.
'Kay.
Hey boss.
What'd you think of my idea?
Well you really love the
David and Goliath stories,
don't you?
You know, is there
a problem with that?
No, but we're a small outlet.
We need to stick
with local stories.
Speaking of, this
book just came out.
I want you to do a story
on the book and the author.
Now she's a local and
works on the other side
in the paper division.
"Just say no to
feeling obligated
to decorate for the holidays.
It just makes you
feel more depressed
"when you have to clean
up the mess after."
I'm gonna just say no to
reporting on this book.
Okay, I'll give
the story to April.
Fine. I'll do it.
Well if I can't celebrate
Christmas publicly,
there must be a way I can
celebrate anonymously.
"Profile name:"
Santa's Little Helper.
"About me."
About me.
I love Christmas.
If I could celebrate
Christmas every day, I would.
I have an extensive
Santa collection.
There you go.
I'm glad you're goin' with
us to get our tree tomorrow.
Oh, I wouldn't miss
it for the world.
Hey you know,
I know we didn't do much
last year for Christmas.
But this year we
are gonna go all out
and make it the
best Christmas ever.
Yay!
I'll do this.
All right.
"Christmas activities for people"
who want to go all
out for Christmas:
baked goods, building
a gingerbread house,
"Christmas stuff around town."
Wow, this site is a
goldmine of information.
"Profile name:"
Jolly Soul.
I learned from
a young age to be nice,
not just because I thought
I'd get gifts from Santa
but because even
back then I knew
that what you put into the
world comes back to you.
I definitely believe
what goes around comes around.
I'm curious about your
extensive Santa collection.
What can I say?
I love Santa.
I think it's because
my favorite grandfather
would only visit at Christmas.
And when I was seven, he
gave me my first Santa.
The whole idea of
a magical being
who'll give you what
you want if you're good
has always intrigued me.
That's sweet
and you would have to be pretty
grumpy to not love Santa.
I'm curious.
Why did you pick
the name Jolly Soul?
I like to
laugh and joke around.
I'm actually on this
forum for my niece.
I have no idea what to
do for her for Christmas
and I wanna make it extra
special for her this year.
Last Christmas was tough on her.
I'm sorry to hear that.
It's a long story.
But basically, I need help.
Well you've
come to the right place.
Though ice skating
is always fun,
there's baking and
decorating Christmas cookies,
making ornaments, getting and
decorating a tree, sledding.
Wow.
She knows a lot about Christmas.
Those are great ideas.
Thanks.
Sure.
You know where to reach me.
Will do.
Have a merry Christmas.
That was fun.
This isn't gonna be fun.
"The competitiveness
of Christmas."
All right.
We compete with others
to have the prettiest
decorations,
the best gingerbread house
and even the perfect partner
to take to all our
Christmas events.
What's my angle on this story?
Oh.
I got you.
Careful, it's a little slippery.
This isn't a good idea.
I can't help myself.
I could've picked
out our tree.
We all have to
help pick it out.
We better make
this quick then.
Okay.
You pick out the tree.
Okay.
She's excited.
Oh, who gave you that idea?
This is it.
Great.
I'll go find my salesperson.
Excuse me.
Ow.
Uncle Hunter,
I found our tree.
Right.
Who did that?
Lemme see it.
We want this tree.
Wow, you picked a good one.
Okay, take this up to the front
and I'll have it ready for
you in about 20 minutes.
Thank you so much.
Great.
Now let's get outta here
before anyone recognizes you.
No one is gonna recognize me.
You don't know that.
They will know you.
I read your book.
Where do I know her from?
She's a fraud.
What are you talking about?
I just saw this writer down
at the Christmas tree lot.
But in her book, she says no
to decorating for Christmas.
Okay, but she just got hired
to do a column in our
newspaper division.
I don't like when people
pretend to be
somethin' they're not.
I wanna expose her.
This could be a great story.
I'm all over it.
Hey, can I help you?
Yeah. Hunter
Williams, Channel 20.
I'm here to interview Chief
Cody about the new station.
He's actually in
another interview
with that nice lady from
the Greenbough Times.
What?
How many trucks do you
have at this station?
Eight, I think.
- Eight.
- Hi.
Hi. Hunter Williams, Channel 20.
We had that interview
scheduled at 1:00.
Oh yeah, I was just
talkin' to Katrina here
from the Times.
Yeah, we were
just wrapping up.
It's been a pleasure
talking to you, Chief.
Thank you so much for your time.
I got everything I need.
You're welcome.
Hudson Fire and Rescue.
Emergency.
Oh, we gotta go.
Can we make this up?
- Yes.
- Cat on a tree.
There are high-voltage
power lines in the area.
Probably for the best.
Your button's undone.
I'm just messing with you.
I found a skating rink.
I wish I could go skating.
Fun.
Fun.
It's a nice
little outdoor skating rink
in Hudson.
No way.
Hudson.
Yeah, that's close
to where I live in Greenbough.
I live in Greenbough.
What?
Really?
Wow.
What a small world.
Have you put up your tree yet?
Yeah.
Yeah, we went there
opening day and got a tree.
Really?
I was there too.
She's everywhere.
Maybe we saw each other.
Yeah.
Hey, any ideas for
my niece's Christmas gifts?
Well I do
this thing for my sister
that I call the 12
gifts of Christmas.
Starting December 12th,
I give her gift a day
leading up to Christmas.
It's become a tradition.
They're not expensive gifts.
Just little things like
lotion, jewelry, makeup.
Girls your niece's age would
probably love lip gloss,
hair ties, definitely
a pair of fuzzy socks.
Ooh, fuzzy socks.
Good to know.
Maybe I'll get my
sister a pair too.
Well I better call it.
Busy day tomorrow.
Me too.
Me too.
Take care.
Do I have to do
the book signing?
It's good for sales.
And the more books sold,
the more likely you'll
get another book deal.
I guess you're right.
It's the station.
Answer it.
Hello?
Yes, this is Katrina Marks.
A story for Channel 20.
A reporter will be
at the book signing?
Uh-huh.
Okay.
Sure.
Bye.
Ooh.
I just hope they send April.
You got this.
Do I look okay?
Thank you.
Thank you very much.
Mark.
What are you doing here?
And now that you're not
so busy with Christmas,
maybe we could go to dinner.
Oh.
I don't know, Mark.
I should be getting back
to the book signing.
You know, picks up around lunch.
Well you see, it gets
busier around lunch.
I have a book
that needs signing.
Yes.
Please.
I'll call you.
Who was that guy?
No one important.
So he sent you instead of April.
Yup.
Hunter Williams.
It's nice to meet you again.
I was thinking after
the book signing,
we could start part
one of your interview.
Part one?
Yeah, I wanna do a two-part
story on you and your book.
Is that really necessary?
Of course.
You have such a
unique viewpoint.
I wanna know all about it
so I can portray you
in the proper light.
We can meet at the skating rink.
There's bleachers out front.
- Well-
- Well unless it's easier
to meet at your house.
No.
Skating rink is fine.
Okay.
In two hours?
See ya then.
Thank you.
Where is he?
Hey.
That's Joe, my cameraman.
We'll do a quick
interview on camera.
And then later, we'll schedule
set up our one-on-one time.
Okay.
Don't be nervous.
Just be your honest self, 'kay?
All right.
Hunter Williams here with
local superstar Katrina Marks
who is the author of
"Just Say No to Ho Ho Ho",
offerin' a unique
perspective on Christmas.
So what was your
inspiration for the story?
Well I used to go
all out for Christmas.
Some might say I was
obsessive about it.
But last year, that
all came crashing down.
My boyfriend dumped me,
I lost my job
and I broke something
very sentimental to me.
Sounds like an
unfortunate Christmas
or country music
or a country music song.
It was then when I realized
that I was putting way too
much pressure on myself
and I thought maybe,
maybe there were others out
there that did the same.
And this book is
about freeing yourself
from the guilt and the
pressure of the holidays.
In your book,
you said that you are done
decorating for Christmas,
that people shouldn't feel
obligated to decorate.
Well for one, decorating
can be expensive
and it's a lot of work.
No one wants to take all
of those decorations down
at the end of the season.
And then there's the
issue of storage.
I mean where do you store
all this stuff you use
once a year?
Decorating can remind us
of the beauty of Christmas.
It could be a fun
bonding moment.
Yes, but the holidays
aren't always a happy time
for some people
and they don't wanna be
pressured into decorating.
This book gives them
permission to just say no
without feeling like a Scrooge.
So I take it
you didn't put up your
Christmas tree this year.
The point of my book
is that it's okay to
say no to Christmas,
the activities and obligations.
Could be quite freeing.
Well you heard it here, folks,
straight from the
author's mouth.
Free yourself from the
responsibilities of Christmas.
We got it.
That's it.
I'd like to set up
our next appointment.
Excuse me.
Hey.
Okay, yup.
I have to go.
I'll be in touch about
our next meeting, 'kay?
All right.
Ready to skate?
Hey.
How's it goin'?
Uncle Hunter.
Hey, got the skate.
How'd it go?
Terrible.
Another reporter.
I mean I don't know him well,
but he works with April and
I bumped into him last year.
There was sort of a spark.
But I don't think he
remembers me though.
He's a bit of a jerk.
How so?
I feel like he's
onto me, you know?
Like he's waitin' for me
to slip up or something.
You're just being paranoid.
Maybe.
Oh.
And you're never gonna guess
who came to the book signing.
Mark.
He did?
Why?
Wants to go to dinner.
You're not going
out with him, are you?
Absolutely not.
Although if I can't go
to any Christmas parties
or go shopping.
I'm just joking.
Don't worry.
Yeah, I'm great at that.
This 12 gifts of
Christmas idea is great.
My niece loves it.
Oh good.
I'm actually wrapping
presents right now.
Oh.
Me too.
You said last
year was tough on her.
My sister's husband
just up and left last
year before Christmas.
Wow.
That's terrible.
I'm so sorry.
I knew my
sister really needed me
and she didn't wanna
uproot my niece,
so I moved to be here with them.
That's terrible.
That was nice of you to
uproot your life for family.
Aww.
It's part of my sibling duties.
Family means everything to me.
I feel exactly the same.
I don't know what I'd
do without my sister.
She's my best friend.
And I wanna prove to them
that not all men are jerks.
Now you have your
sister and niece close by
and
possibly
a significant other to share
the holidays with.
No girlfriend
or significant other.
I did have a girlfriend
before I moved here,
but she wanted no
part of Greenbough.
Oh.
That's awful she didn't
wanna come with you.
She's a city girl.
Well what about you?
Do you have a
boyfriend, husband?
N-O.
No.
I'm a little too busy for
a relationship right now,
but I think your girlfriend
was crazy to let you go.
Thanks.
And it sounds like you
just haven't met a guy
worthy of you yet.
That's sweet of you to say.
Well it was great
connecting with you again.
Goodnight, Jolly Soul.
Sweet dreams,
Santa's Little Helper.
Hey.
Hey.
Thanks for
giving Charlotte a ride.
I had to do some
Christmas shopping
and I lost track of time.
I guess I was tryin'
to do too much.
Hmm.
Maybe this lady's book can
have some merit after all.
Book?
Oh, I'm doin' a
story on a local author
who wrote a book called
"Just Say No to Ho Ho Ho".
Funny title.
Yeah, well even funnier
is she doesn't practice
what she preaches.
What do you mean?
Well I caught her at
the Christmas tree lot
when we went to get our tree.
So?
So in her book,
she says she doesn't
wanna decorate anymore.
Maybe the tree was
for someone else.
We'll see.
I have an interview
with her again.
Hopefully I'll catch
her slippin' up.
So that's what
your story is about.
You're hoping to
catch her in a lie.
It's investigative reporting.
Hey, I am just tryin' to see
if she is who she says she is.
Right.
You sure?
Mm-hmm.
Really?
Obviously.
That's pretty shaky.
You'll see.
Maybe that was him.
Who?
This guy I met online.
You're not online
dating, are you?
No, no.
I just met this guy on
this Christmas website.
He goes by the name Jolly Soul
and we're really connecting.
We shouldn't even be here.
Oh, I had to get some of
Mrs. Goodwin's famous biscotti
for mom and dad.
Well biscotti'll get
us busted is what I say.
Katrina?
Katrina?
Take a look.
Hunter.
Hey.
Almost didn't recognize you.
Oh, well I didn't wanna
be recognized by fans.
What're you doin'?
My sister wanted to
pick up some cookies
and I needed my caffeine fix.
Right?
Right.
Hi, I'm Lindsey.
Oh, I'm sorry.
You're the one doing this
story about Katrina's book.
I am.
Actually, I'm glad
I ran into you.
I was hoping we could
set up our next interview
at the Christmas tree
lighting ceremony.
Right.
I keep hopin' you'll wanna
do somethin' Christmasy.
No.
How about we meet at the bakery?
Yeah, let's say
Monday at 10:00.
Sure, it's a date.
I mean I'll put that
date on my calendar.
Right.
It was nice to meet you.
Nice to meet you too.
Have a nice day.
That's the reporter?
Yeah and that was a close one.
He almost caught me.
You didn't tell
me he was cute.
And annoying.
And cute.
I think he has a girlfriend.
He might even be
married with a kid.
I didn't see a
ring on his finger.
Look, I don't care if I'm
a one-woman dating service.
I'll take care of you.
Hey April.
Hey.
How's the new position?
Great so far.
Thanks for putting in
a good word for me.
Well you did them a favor
by taking the position.
I mean they needed some fresh
eyes in that department.
It's really nice to have a job
where you can make
your own hours.
Can't beat that.
Unless you write a bestseller.
I'm so excited for you.
It's about time you used
that journalism degree.
Thanks.
I was just sad when you
didn't do the interview.
Yeah, plus they gave
that assignment to Hunter.
I don't know why.
I would've loved to do it.
And I would've
loved you to do it.
Well he'll do a good job.
Hunter's like an orange.
I'm sorry, did
you say an orange?
Yeah, you have to peel
back his tough exterior
to get to his sweet side.
Yeah.
Oh, but don't
tell him I said that
because he is the competition.
Oh.
Hmm.
My lips are sealed.
Well I better get back to work.
I'm off to the toy drive today.
Oh, it's this week, isn't it?
Yeah.
Okay, well we should
hang out sometime.
But after the holidays,
since I know you're not going
to any parties this year.
That's right, yes.
I mean no,
I am not going out to any
Christmas parties this year.
I'm definitely not
doing Christmas.
Thanks.
Bye.
Oh my gosh.
You almost gave me a
heart attack.
Yeah, I was on email
and you came around the-
- Yeah, well I didn't
know you were gonna.
No.
Yeah.
You should really watch
where you're goin'.
What?
Hey boss, what'd you need?
I need you to
cover the toy drive.
It's happening at
the fire station.
That sounds more
like April's thing.
No, I just sent her to cover
the hospital's
charity fashion show.
You can switch with
her if you'd like.
No, no.
Toy drive it is.
Oh, Hunter.
How's that Santa
book story going?
It's going.
Well and how many gifts
do you get each year?
One for every
child, of course.
Oh, that's amazing.
I think I've got
everything I need.
So can we get some photos?
Sure.
Great.
That's perfect.
- Ho, ho, ho.
- You know,
I'll be right back.
Hmm, I'd almost say
you're following me.
I'm just always
chasin' a good story.
Ho, ho, ho.
Okay.
I better let you get to it then.
You know, I am surprised
you're coverin' a story
about givin' away
Christmas gifts to kids.
Isn't that one way to
celebrate Christmas?
Well I guess you could
look at it that way.
But when it comes to
making sure no child
goes without knowing they're
loved or important enough
to Santa to bring them a gift,
then I don't feel like
that's a mindless thing we do
during the holidays.
Now I'm no longer the
head of fundraising
and I'm just here doin' my job.
So if it helps some
kids feel special, then
I'm sorry?
Oh.
No.
No.
No, you're right.
It's a good cause and
you're just doin' your job.
'Kay, so go in there
and help promote it.
I'm on it.
Look at this.
He's decorating
his Christmas tree.
Who's that?
Jolly Nick, your
online boyfriend?
He's not my boyfriend.
Just if I can't do Christmas,
at least I can help
someone else do Christmas.
Good point.
I'm surprised there
were guys on the forum.
He's on it for his niece,
to get ideas for Christmas
gifts and activities.
It's been really nice talkin'
to someone who loves Christmas
as much as I do.
Ahem.
Oh, as much as we do.
Thank you.
Beautiful.
- This red one?
- Yeah.
Is everything okay?
Oh, I'm just chattin'
with someone online.
Someone online?
It's a long story.
Just a friend?
Or is it a girlfriend?
Charlotte.
Charlotte, go to your room.
You're blushing.
I'm not blushing.
And he's blushing.
He's goin' red.
No, I'm not.
So what other Christmas
activities do you suggest?
Well making gingerbread houses
is always fun.
They have kits to make it easy
and your niece would
probably love that.
Wow, I haven't
made a gingerbread house
since I was a kid.
You should
definitely do it then.
You can also make
Christmas cookies,
decorate stockings
or make ornaments.
Just go to the craft store
There's something
I wanna tell you.
You think my
niece will like these?
She'll love them.
Charlotte and my sister
I got them Santa ornaments
for the next gift.
Your love of Santa
is rubbing off on me.
I'm pleased to hear it.
You need to show me
Sure, but it's
missing the first Santa
that my grandfather
ever gave me.
I accidentally
broke it last year.
I'm so sorry to hear that.
Thank you.
It makes me sad 'cause it
was very special to me.
Okay, so I'll share a
pic.
So this is what you look like.
I'm a little older now.
Well that's good.
Maybe I can see what
you look like now.
Since we both live
in Greenbough,
maybe we should meet.
I can't.
I think I have the flu.
I'll be fine.
I just can't go out for awhile.
Maybe some other time?
Sure.
He wants to meet.
He said he wants to meet.
Jolly Soul?
Mm-hmm.
What did you say?
I told him I was
sick and that I can't.
But you wanna
meet him, don't you?
Yes.
No.
I don't know.
I can tell that you like him.
Unless you have feelings
for that reporter guy.
Don't be silly.
You said there was
an initial attraction.
And why do you care
what you look like
if there's nothin' goin' on?
Just tryin' to figure
out what to wear.
Then why did you do your hair?
Maybe he wants a photo.
Maybe.
That one.
- This one?
- That one.
Not the tights, but that one.
Of course not the tights.
You totally like her.
I knew it.
No.
No, but why would you say that?
Since when do you
care what you look like
unless you like a girl?
Because it is a
business meeting and
I wanna look professional.
Okay.
Okay.
Okay.
Okay.
All right.
Thank you.
Here, let me.
I'm just Santa's Little Helper.
Ring a bell?
Anything?
Why am I so nervous?
It's not like it's a date.
It's not a date.
It's not a date.
Hey.
Hey.
- Hey.
- Hey.
After you.
No.
After you.
Ladies first.
Okay.
Hi.
Can I get a black coffee please?
Thank you.
That must be yours
because you hate Christmas.
Stop it.
It's not that I
don't like Christmas.
Make sure you make that
clear in your story.
You know, I'm not Scrooge.
I just don't think people
should feel pressured
to do certain things
during Christmas.
Well don't you miss things
like Christmas shopping?
You mean running
around exhausted
tryin' to fight the crowds?
Seein' that special someone
open your gift with delight.
Seeing them pretend to like it
while secretly planning how
to return or re-gift it.
And no romance this Christmas?
I didn't say you
can't fall in love.
I just don't think you
should date someone
just because of the pressure
to be with someone
on the holidays.
And are you seein' someone?
Maybe.
But if I was, it wouldn't
be with someone like you.
Oh.
Okay.
Jeez.
That hurts. What's
wrong with me?
I'm a nice guy.
I'm sorry.
I'm sure you're a nice guy
when you're not getting a story.
Well you know, I'm
just challenging you.
It helps you grow.
Yeah, that's easy
for you to say.
You're not the one
being challenged.
You missed a spot.
Yeah.
Yeah?
Right under the nose.
Okay, you got it.
You're good. You're good.
I got it all?
Yup.
I guess I see your point.
Yeah.
Well I really do
hope you find love.
That guy was an
idiot to let you go.
I mean
even though you were clearly
a misled about Christmas,
you have some
good attributes.
Yeah. Oh, look.
Christmas trolley.
Too bad you don't
like Christmas.
This looks fun.
Well maybe you should
take your girlfriend.
Oh, I don't-
- Wait.
Wait, are you the author
"Just Say No to Ho Ho Ho"?
Yeah.
Your book was such a relief.
I usually go all
out for Christmas.
But after reading your book,
I learned that it's okay
to turn it down a notch.
I'm so glad it helped.
Thank you.
No, thank you.
Thank you.
Merry Christmas.
See?
Put that in your story.
My book helps people.
All right.
Okay. In your book,
you mention that you were
obsessed with Christmas
before this year,
but you never said why.
Yeah, well I
don't like to talk
about my past or
personal life, you know?
Especially with you.
Okay.
Wait.
Okay, that came out wrong.
It's just you know,
you're doing the story.
It's okay.
- Fine.
- No.
- So when I was little-
- It's okay.
It's okay.
I think I have
enough for the story.
- You do?
- Yeah.
Yeah.
So that's it?
That's it.
Huh.
Take care.
Right, I will finish with that.
Oh and I emailed you a copy of
my story about Katrina Marks.
It's just a glorified
book review,
but it'll be good for
her publicity-wise.
I'm sorry you didn't get the
expose you thought you would.
I need to just stop
being so skeptical.
I love 'em.
Thanks.
Hello?
Did you hear me?
Hmm?
What?
Is something wrong?
You seem distracted.
No.
It's just Hunter.
What about Hunter?
I actually think I'm gonna
miss meeting up with him.
It's just something he said
that's been playing on my mind.
What did he say?
He said Mark was
stupid to let me go.
He said that?
That means he has
feelings for you.
He has a girlfriend.
How can you be sure?
I saw him at the skating rink
with this beautiful
woman and a young girl.
I'm sure it was her
that was calling him
during the interview.
It could've been
a sister, a friend.
If you have feelings for Hunter,
what does that mean
for Jolly Soul?
I don't know.
Jolly Soul is
sweet and kind.
He's family-oriented
and thoughtful.
It's so easy just
open up to him.
What if you meet him in real
life and there's no chemistry
like the chemistry
you have with Hunter?
If I could just
put the two together,
I'd have the perfect guy.
Maybe it's time
to meet Jolly Soul.
Do you think chemistry
is important in a relationship?
I think
chemistry is important,
but it can't be the only
thing two people share.
It won't sustain a relationship.
We have a
great connection online.
But what if we meet and we
don't feel it in person?
I suppose that's a risk
we'd have to be willing to take.
I also think
chemistry could grow
once you get to know a person.
Either way, I think we've
become great friends.
I'd be open to meeting
if you're still interested.
Mm-hmm, mm-hmm.
Yes, yes.
Yes, how about the waterfront
park tomorrow at 2:00?
Okay.
Okay.
How will I know it's you?
I'll be wearing
a red winter coat and
Christmas earrings.
Okay, see you tomorrow.
You're not supposed to eat it.
Why not?
So are you done with your
story about the author?
You like her, don't you?
I can't worry about that now.
I'm gonna meet my online friend.
You are?
Oh, okay.
Look at you two.
I wanna get her somethin'.
She was sorta my Christmas coach
tellin' me what to get
for everybody else,
so I don't know what to get her.
What does she like?
That's it.
You are a genius.
I'm gonna get goin'.
I got some shoppin' to do.
Okay, have fun.
Yeah.
Are you crazy?
I can't help it.
Think I'm falling in love.
What did you just say?
I'm just tired
of shopping online.
I need to buy something special
for Jolly Soul, for
his niece, his sister.
Maybe even Hunter
for doin' the story.
Katrina!
I gotta go.
Call you later.
I reviewed your story.
But you were right, it's
a glorified book review.
I've decided to
run April's story.
No, actually there's
something you need to see.
It might change your
mind about the story.
What is it?
Video proof that
Katrina Marks is a fraud.
I'll look it over.
I'll look it over.
Why am I so nervous?
Can't believe you're
actually meeting him.
I know.
Hope there's chemistry
like you have with that-
- Oh, chemistry
isn't everything.
You know, I feel like we bonded.
I've shared things with him
I haven't shared with anyone.
I've decided to
tell him the truth.
What?
I'm gonna tell him why
I signed up for the forum,
about my book, everything.
I know.
Wish me luck.
I've decided to air
your story tonight
on the six o'clock news.
Wait, but my story was
supposed to air tonight.
Congratulations, man.
Thanks.
I gotta get goin'.
Where are you goin'?
I gotta go home
and get ready to meet
this girl I met online.
I didn't know you
started online dating.
I'm not.
It's just someone I met
on a Christmas forum.
Christmas forum?
Where is he?
Katrina?
Katrina is Santa's
Little Helper.
Hey, how'd it go?
Oh.
You wanna talk about it?
It's her.
Who?
The girl that I met online
That makes no sense.
Actually that
makes perfect sense.
She loves Christmas so much
that she logged on to
the forum anonymously
because she had to hide
her love for Christmas.
What are you gonna do?
I don't know.
I better stop that story.
Yeah, yeah.
Go, go.
I guess he just took
one look at me and bolted.
Don't be silly.
That's absurd.
There was probably
some sort of emergency.
Well he didn't
send any messages.
I'm sure you're
goin' to find out later
that something urgent came up.
Never been so humiliated.
Hey, I need you
to stop the story.
I can't.
It's already locked
in and set to air.
There was something
I wanted to tell you.
So that's why I had to go on
the forum and be anonymous.
I wanted you to know the truth.
I don't know why
you didn't show,
but I just hope
everything is okay.
Yeah, but now
she's gonna hate me.
I'm sorry you
couldn't stop the story.
Yeah, I ruined it.
Well maybe reach out to
her, explain your side.
No, I can't.
Why not?
There's just no use.
It's over.
Have you heard
anything from him yet?
Nope.
Maybe this thing
with Jolly Soul
wasn't supposed to work out.
Look, your story.
In the book "Just
say No to Ho Ho Ho",
author Katrina Marks
writes about just sayin' no
to Christmas shoppin'
and gift buyin'.
And yet, this happened.
Did you see that?
I can't believe it.
I knew he was up to no good.
I should've listened to myself.
I started to think he was
different and I was wrong.
What an idiot!
Maybe you could come
clean, explain your side
or tell everyone that
I convinced you
to keep up the ruse.
No.
It's over.
It's over.
I'm sorry Leslie pulled your
story and ran mine instead.
Go ahead, open it.
Wow.
Thank you.
I hope we can put our
competitiveness aside.
Let's just work together.
Yeah.
Hey April.
I wanna ask a favor.
Can I come in to do
another interview please?
Thanks.
Hi, I'm here
with Katrina Marks,
author of "Just
Say No to Ho Ho Ho"
to set the record straight.
When I wrote "Just
Say No to Ho Ho Ho",
I wrote a rant.
'Cause my Christmas
did not go as planned
and I was so stressed
because I always do too much.
Well my sister found it
and she sent it to a publisher
who wanted to
release it as a book.
I felt like I had to
hide my love of Christmas
in order to sell the book,
so I tried to be
someone I wasn't.
I discovered that
I miss decorating
and buying gifts
and doing Christmasy things.
And I admit you know, I
did decorate a little.
I got a tree, baked a little.
Even shop for
friends and family,
but I did not overbook myself
and no one expected
anything from me this year.
Thought it was really
nice to slow down
and not worry about making
sure everything is perfect.
My holidays have become
more of a to-do list
rather than spending
time with loved ones,
doing fun traditions
together of the season.
It's been my best Christmas yet,
except for the story last night.
I realized that Christmas
is not about making sure
everything is perfect
which is still the
point of my book.
It's about
sharing the joy,
the kindness,
the magic of the holidays.
That's so true.
Well there you have it, folks,
straight from the
author's mouth.
Merry Christmas, everyone.
That's a wrap.
Thank you for letting me
tell my side of the story.
I'm so glad it was
you and not Hunter
who did the interview.
Katrina, you
don't know, do you?
Know what?
Hunter tried to
stop the story.
He did?
He said something about
a girl he met online
at a Christmas forum and
he tried to stop the story,
but it was too late.
I had no idea.
Merry Christmas.
Merry Christmas.
Merry Christmas, everyone.
I'm glad she got to
set the record straight.
Are you still not gonna tell
her that you're Jolly Soul?
Hey, you wanna watch a movie?
No thanks.
Hello?
I'm so sorry.
I'm gonna have to say no.
I just can't commit at the
moment, but thank you so much.
Who was that?
The hospital.
They wanted me for
fundraising next year.
I can't believe
you just said no.
Well I'm still gonna
volunteer for the toy drive,
but I'm not gonna go crazy
and overbook myself anymore.
I want plenty of time for me
and family next Christmas.
No, I'm not available.
That's right.
Oh, I'm so sorry.
I thought you were someone else.
You want me to write a book
on the joys of Christmas.
Mm-hmm.
Okay, sure.
I'll look out for that email.
Sure.
Your next book.
That's so exciting
and one that truly
represents who you are.
Uh-huh, yeah.
Guess that's true.
You don't seem
to be too excited.
Isn't this what
you always wanted?
I always thought so,
but now I'm not so sure.
I've missed our talks.
I believe we have
something special
and I'd love to meet you.
I'll be at the park tonight
Christmas Eve, seven o'clock.
I'll be wearing a red jacket
and Christmas earrings.
I hope to see you there.
Thank you, Uncle Hunter.
Thanks.
I love fuzzy socks.
Yeah.
They're cute.
You're welcome.
Hey, what's going on?
She wants to meet.
When?
In 15 minutes.
What?
What are you still
doin' sitting here?
She's gonna hate me when
she finds out I'm Jolly Soul.
No, not if you
tell her the truth.
She won't hate
you, Uncle Hunter.
No one can hate you.
Mm-hmm.
That's very sweet.
Thank you.
Plus I like her.
She makes you happy.
I agree.
Well.
Go.
Go, go, go.
- Go.
- Okay.
Before you say anything,
I know you weren't
expectin' it to be me.
I actually knew it was you.
You did.
And you still wanted to meet?
I was pleased it was you.
You were.
Oh.
Kind of annoying, but I
like how you challenged me.
I like how I got to
know the part of you
that loves Christmas
and I'm sorry how
my story turned out.
I guess you were
just doing your job.
So now what?
I tried not to look
for love on Christmas.
Yeah.
But sometimes love finds
you when you least expect it.
So does that mean you like me?
Maybe.
Oh no, I didn't know we
were exchanging gifts now.
We're not.
Well I found this
at a vintage store.
I don't know what to say.
I know it's not the one
your grandfather got you.
It's the perfect gift.
Thank you so much.
I thought you and Mark
were havin' lunch today.
He said he had to go to work.
He's working on a Saturday?
Maybe.
Or maybe he's shopping
for a special gift.
We've been dating
three years now.
And you think
he's gonna propose?
Well he said he had to
talk to me after Christmas
and he's been acting really
weird lately, so maybe.
Oh.
You're not excited for me?
Of course, but
you guys are just so
different.
I know he doesn't
love Christmas.
But you know what they
say, "Opposites attract."
They you say that about
accent walls and other-
- Mark.
- Speak of the Mark.
- Hey.
Hey, just wonderin' if you
wanted to go to dinner tonight.
Oh, I'd love to.
But Lindsey and I are
decorating, remember?
I thought you were
gonna come over.
We could order takeout.
All right, you know
I hate decorating.
That's why you decorated
my place for me.
What about tomorrow night?
Tomorrow, tomorrow.
Well I've gotta go and
collect and wrap the gifts
for the toy drive and
help decorate Main Street,
collect the ornaments for the
neighborhood gift exchange
and then bake cookies
for the bake sale.
I thought you were gonna
come over and help.
I'd just get in the way.
What about Monday night?
We promised to decorate
for the fundraiser.
No, you promised.
How about Tuesday night?
What's going on?
You're still taking me to the
fundraiser on Friday, right?
Look, I was just hoping
to have some alone time.
Oh, okay.
We can have dinner, just
the two of us on Tuesday.
Okay, I'll see you then.
Okay.
Tuesday, Tuesday, Tuesday.
I think it's Tuesday.
I think it's gonna be Tuesday.
Tuesday.
Have you heard anything about
the manuscript you submitted?
Oh, I got the latest
rejection letter last week.
Keep trying.
Why don't you write
about Christmas?
I do love Christmas.
Almost obsessively.
You do too much, Kat.
Aw, do not.
Mom told me you
volunteered to bake
for the bake sale again.
Well you know me, any
excuse to decorate cookies.
She said you joined the
city planning committee
to help with
Christmas decorations.
Well they needed the help.
And you've committed
to the toy drive again.
Imagine those children's faces
when they open their gifts.
Aren't you already in charge
of their Christmas fundraiser?
Well it's for the kids.
Don't you remember the magic
of being a child on
Christmas morning?
I don't want any kid
to miss out on that.
I get it,
but I worry that you're
jeopardizing your own Christmas.
Christmas is a time of giving.
But you give
way too much, Kat.
I can't say no if
someone needs my help.
That's your fatal
flaw, you can't say no.
I can so.
Remember when you
tried to get out
of our neighborhood
ornament exchange?
That was different.
And now you're doing
all the collecting
and distribution for them.
Exactly my point.
'Kay.
Well I guess I feel like
I'm Santa's little helper.
An overly-caffeinated
one who can't say no.
Ooh, a peppermint
mocha with whipped cream
and a candy cane sounds
great right about now.
Hmm?
Hmm?
Hmm, hmm, hmm?
I know what you're doing.
But I can't say no to that.
Oh, wait 'til you see my dress
for the Christmas fundraiser.
I got the seamstress
to make Mark
a matching bow tie and vest.
For Mark.
I'm sure he's gonna love that.
Oh, you made it.
Oh, I'm so glad you're here.
- So am I.
- Come in, come in.
It's cold.
Yes, it is cold.
Want me to take this?
Thanks. I'm glad to be here.
All right.
Where is she?
Uncle Hunter.
Hey.
Oh my Lord.
What'd you eat?
I don't know.
- Rocks?
- No.
- Iron.
- Mm-mmm.
- Yes.
- No.
Okay.
How'd you get so heavy?
There she is, my favorite niece.
Your only niece.
Yes, you're gettin' so big.
I'm 10 now.
Whoa.
You are so old.
I should've brought
you a walking cane.
But instead, I brought you that.
Thanks.
Oh, I got you somethin' else.
There you go.
Thanks, Uncle Hunter.
How about you get
ready for bed, sweetie?
She's not in the
baby dolls anymore.
Not really.
I tried.
Thanks.
You hungry?
Starving.
Yes.
Come on, let's feed you.
Are you sure you're
gonna be okay living here
and working for our
tiny TV news station
when you're so used
to the Big Apple?
Hey, Rainbow has its charm.
Besides, I wanna be here
for you and Charlotte.
You know, I'm sorry he left.
It's okay.
It's tough, but
we'll get through it
especially with you here.
Thank you.
Love you.
Thank you.
Okay.
That's great.
Oh, looks like it's leanin'
a little bit to the left.
No.
It looks straight to me.
I'm just kidding.
It looks fine.
But the ribbon should be
on top, don't you think?
What? No.
The bow always
goes at the bottom.
You're messing with me again.
Okay, got it.
Do you mind?
Well I heard they have
the best cookies in town,
but I didn't realize
it was so tough
to get through the door.
Oh, pardon me.
The door, kind sir.
Thank you.
Hope the door doesn't
hit you on the way in.
You said you
wanted to talk to me?
Hey, thanks for decorating
and you didn't have to do
that on your lunch hour.
It's my pleasure.
Just a reminder: I need
to leave early today
to collect donations
for the toy drive,
but I'm gonna come in early
tomorrow to make up for it.
Actually, I need to talk
to you about something.
Sure.
I need you to go to New
Mexico for a new account.
But we're weeks
away from Christmas.
I'm in charge of a
fundraiser this Friday
and then I need to
deliver toys on Saturday.
I volunteered to be Mrs. Claus.
There has to be someone
else who can do it.
Can you ask around?
Please?
Don't worry.
I'll find someone.
Wonderful.
Listen, kiddo.
I gotta let you go.
You're firing me?
But I've been here five years.
Right before Christmas?
Katrina, you're a hard
worker and extremely talented.
But every Christmas,
you get busier.
You're here, but clearly
your mind is elsewhere.
He fired me.
Yeah.
Well maybe
this'll give you time
to work on your books.
You know what?
Have you heard of income?
I need it.
Maybe you can freelance
or even check out
the local paper
and see if they need some help.
Maybe.
This day could
not get any worse.
Hey, I'm sorry about your job.
Thanks, but I'm
not complaining.
We finally get some
alone time together
and I made some extra
cookies just for you.
Now don't lemme forget.
Before you leave, I've gotta
give you a bow tie and vest
that you're wearing
for the fundraiser.
About that.
And we need to be ready
to leave at 6:00 sharp.
The party doesn't
start 'til 7:00.
I know, but we can't be late.
Look, Kat.
I just want everything
to be perfect.
I know you always want
everything to be perfect.
But-
But what?
I can't do this anymore.
What are you saying?
Kat, you love Christmas
and that's great for you,
but I am so tired of
hearing Christmas songs
two months before Christmas.
Christmas is the most
wonderful time of the year.
But you take it to an extreme.
You send cards to
over 100 people
you haven't seen in years.
Well that's why I send
them, to keep in touch.
And then there's
no time for me.
Us.
And I wanna spend
more time together.
Sometimes you don't like doing
things that I love to do.
You're right.
We're too different.
This is never gonna work.
That's not what I meant.
Katrina, I wanted to
wait 'til after Christmas,
but I can't.
I need a break.
Oh.
Okay.
Well you don't have to come
to the parties this weekend.
No, no.
I need a break from
this, from us, from you.
But I thought you
were gonna propose.
What?
No.
I should go.
No!
No!
Can't believe he broke up
with you before Christmas.
I don't know if I'm more upset
about Mark breaking up with me
or me breaking
Grandpa Marks' Santa.
Why don't we go
grab some pizza?
I'm too depressed
to leave the house.
Okay, it's a girls' night in.
Want some hot cocoa?
I can order some food
while we watch a nice
romantic Christmas movie, hmm?
Yeah.
Let's watch what
I will never have.
Okay, no movie.
Hot cocoa comin' up.
Another rejection.
Another rejection.
Figures!
"Things will get better,"
isn't that what you always say?
No, I never said that.
Nothing gets better ever.
Why don't you write
something about Christmas?
It might cheer you up.
I'll write something
about Christmas all right.
I'll write something
about Christmas.
I'll leave this
right here for you.
"Just say no to Santa.
Just
say no
to ho,
ho,
"ho."
Maybe we should
put on a movie.
"Pressure of relationships."
This is interesting.
Not what I expected
but very entertaining,
especially coming from you.
Yeah, it was very therapeutic.
You know, you're probably
not the only person
who's felt stressed out
during the holidays.
I'm not stressed.
I'm just sad.
Are you goin'
to the parties this weekend?
I'm going
back to bed.
You should try to
get this published.
I'm goin' to work now.
Catch up with you later.
Well viewers,
today we have the author of
"Just Say No to Ho Ho Ho"
Katrina Marks.
Welcome, Katrina.
Hi.
So I hear that you
are a journalist.
Yes, I work for a small
paper in Greenbough.
So what made you decide
to write this book?
Well last year,
I tried to have the
perfect Christmas.
But when things
went terribly wrong,
I realized that I was so focused
on the stuff of Christmas
and not the true
meaning of the holiday.
Well yes.
I read the book and
what I understood is
that we should not
really feel obligated
to write down a checklist
durin' the holiday.
Right. Exactly.
So does that mean that this
year you will not be doin'
any of the usual traditional
Christmas things?
No.
I mean
yes.
Yes.
I refuse to worry
about making sure
I've got the perfect gifts
or the perfect decorations
or the perfect outfit or
even the perfect date.
I'm not gonna run
myself ragged anymore
tryin' to be involved in every
fundraiser or losing sleep
to make sure I've got everything
done in time for Christmas.
So
Yes, I won't be
doing it this year.
Well hey, that's enough said.
Ms. Katrina Marks is not
celebrating Christmas this year,
so don't expect
a gift or a card.
But check out her book
"Just Say No to Ho Ho Ho".
This is so exciting.
You're a published author.
What have I done?
The publisher said your
sales went through the roof
after that interview.
Aren't you excited?
I don't know.
The advanced payment
plus the money from the book
sales can't hurt, right?
Katrina, this should
open doors for you.
People are loving the book.
It's a hit.
But what if I wanna decorate?
We can still decorate.
But we'll keep the
windows covered,
the doors shut and
not have anyone over.
Of course this means
you'll have to do
all your shopping online.
And if you do go out for
anything Christmas related,
you'll have to wear a disguise.
Think of it as a covert mission.
This is a lot to take in.
You can still go
wild with decorations
in both of our rooms.
This is exciting.
The book is a bestseller.
My sister's a famous publisher.
You don't need
any more coffee.
Cocoa, good idea.
There's a thinker.
Questions on assignments?
Hey April, did you do
somethin' new with your hair?
Looks great.
Thanks, but I still
don't forgive you
for stealin' that tip
about the pipeline.
'Kay.
Hey boss.
What'd you think of my idea?
Well you really love the
David and Goliath stories,
don't you?
You know, is there
a problem with that?
No, but we're a small outlet.
We need to stick
with local stories.
Speaking of, this
book just came out.
I want you to do a story
on the book and the author.
Now she's a local and
works on the other side
in the paper division.
"Just say no to
feeling obligated
to decorate for the holidays.
It just makes you
feel more depressed
"when you have to clean
up the mess after."
I'm gonna just say no to
reporting on this book.
Okay, I'll give
the story to April.
Fine. I'll do it.
Well if I can't celebrate
Christmas publicly,
there must be a way I can
celebrate anonymously.
"Profile name:"
Santa's Little Helper.
"About me."
About me.
I love Christmas.
If I could celebrate
Christmas every day, I would.
I have an extensive
Santa collection.
There you go.
I'm glad you're goin' with
us to get our tree tomorrow.
Oh, I wouldn't miss
it for the world.
Hey you know,
I know we didn't do much
last year for Christmas.
But this year we
are gonna go all out
and make it the
best Christmas ever.
Yay!
I'll do this.
All right.
"Christmas activities for people"
who want to go all
out for Christmas:
baked goods, building
a gingerbread house,
"Christmas stuff around town."
Wow, this site is a
goldmine of information.
"Profile name:"
Jolly Soul.
I learned from
a young age to be nice,
not just because I thought
I'd get gifts from Santa
but because even
back then I knew
that what you put into the
world comes back to you.
I definitely believe
what goes around comes around.
I'm curious about your
extensive Santa collection.
What can I say?
I love Santa.
I think it's because
my favorite grandfather
would only visit at Christmas.
And when I was seven, he
gave me my first Santa.
The whole idea of
a magical being
who'll give you what
you want if you're good
has always intrigued me.
That's sweet
and you would have to be pretty
grumpy to not love Santa.
I'm curious.
Why did you pick
the name Jolly Soul?
I like to
laugh and joke around.
I'm actually on this
forum for my niece.
I have no idea what to
do for her for Christmas
and I wanna make it extra
special for her this year.
Last Christmas was tough on her.
I'm sorry to hear that.
It's a long story.
But basically, I need help.
Well you've
come to the right place.
Though ice skating
is always fun,
there's baking and
decorating Christmas cookies,
making ornaments, getting and
decorating a tree, sledding.
Wow.
She knows a lot about Christmas.
Those are great ideas.
Thanks.
Sure.
You know where to reach me.
Will do.
Have a merry Christmas.
That was fun.
This isn't gonna be fun.
"The competitiveness
of Christmas."
All right.
We compete with others
to have the prettiest
decorations,
the best gingerbread house
and even the perfect partner
to take to all our
Christmas events.
What's my angle on this story?
Oh.
I got you.
Careful, it's a little slippery.
This isn't a good idea.
I can't help myself.
I could've picked
out our tree.
We all have to
help pick it out.
We better make
this quick then.
Okay.
You pick out the tree.
Okay.
She's excited.
Oh, who gave you that idea?
This is it.
Great.
I'll go find my salesperson.
Excuse me.
Ow.
Uncle Hunter,
I found our tree.
Right.
Who did that?
Lemme see it.
We want this tree.
Wow, you picked a good one.
Okay, take this up to the front
and I'll have it ready for
you in about 20 minutes.
Thank you so much.
Great.
Now let's get outta here
before anyone recognizes you.
No one is gonna recognize me.
You don't know that.
They will know you.
I read your book.
Where do I know her from?
She's a fraud.
What are you talking about?
I just saw this writer down
at the Christmas tree lot.
But in her book, she says no
to decorating for Christmas.
Okay, but she just got hired
to do a column in our
newspaper division.
I don't like when people
pretend to be
somethin' they're not.
I wanna expose her.
This could be a great story.
I'm all over it.
Hey, can I help you?
Yeah. Hunter
Williams, Channel 20.
I'm here to interview Chief
Cody about the new station.
He's actually in
another interview
with that nice lady from
the Greenbough Times.
What?
How many trucks do you
have at this station?
Eight, I think.
- Eight.
- Hi.
Hi. Hunter Williams, Channel 20.
We had that interview
scheduled at 1:00.
Oh yeah, I was just
talkin' to Katrina here
from the Times.
Yeah, we were
just wrapping up.
It's been a pleasure
talking to you, Chief.
Thank you so much for your time.
I got everything I need.
You're welcome.
Hudson Fire and Rescue.
Emergency.
Oh, we gotta go.
Can we make this up?
- Yes.
- Cat on a tree.
There are high-voltage
power lines in the area.
Probably for the best.
Your button's undone.
I'm just messing with you.
I found a skating rink.
I wish I could go skating.
Fun.
Fun.
It's a nice
little outdoor skating rink
in Hudson.
No way.
Hudson.
Yeah, that's close
to where I live in Greenbough.
I live in Greenbough.
What?
Really?
Wow.
What a small world.
Have you put up your tree yet?
Yeah.
Yeah, we went there
opening day and got a tree.
Really?
I was there too.
She's everywhere.
Maybe we saw each other.
Yeah.
Hey, any ideas for
my niece's Christmas gifts?
Well I do
this thing for my sister
that I call the 12
gifts of Christmas.
Starting December 12th,
I give her gift a day
leading up to Christmas.
It's become a tradition.
They're not expensive gifts.
Just little things like
lotion, jewelry, makeup.
Girls your niece's age would
probably love lip gloss,
hair ties, definitely
a pair of fuzzy socks.
Ooh, fuzzy socks.
Good to know.
Maybe I'll get my
sister a pair too.
Well I better call it.
Busy day tomorrow.
Me too.
Me too.
Take care.
Do I have to do
the book signing?
It's good for sales.
And the more books sold,
the more likely you'll
get another book deal.
I guess you're right.
It's the station.
Answer it.
Hello?
Yes, this is Katrina Marks.
A story for Channel 20.
A reporter will be
at the book signing?
Uh-huh.
Okay.
Sure.
Bye.
Ooh.
I just hope they send April.
You got this.
Do I look okay?
Thank you.
Thank you very much.
Mark.
What are you doing here?
And now that you're not
so busy with Christmas,
maybe we could go to dinner.
Oh.
I don't know, Mark.
I should be getting back
to the book signing.
You know, picks up around lunch.
Well you see, it gets
busier around lunch.
I have a book
that needs signing.
Yes.
Please.
I'll call you.
Who was that guy?
No one important.
So he sent you instead of April.
Yup.
Hunter Williams.
It's nice to meet you again.
I was thinking after
the book signing,
we could start part
one of your interview.
Part one?
Yeah, I wanna do a two-part
story on you and your book.
Is that really necessary?
Of course.
You have such a
unique viewpoint.
I wanna know all about it
so I can portray you
in the proper light.
We can meet at the skating rink.
There's bleachers out front.
- Well-
- Well unless it's easier
to meet at your house.
No.
Skating rink is fine.
Okay.
In two hours?
See ya then.
Thank you.
Where is he?
Hey.
That's Joe, my cameraman.
We'll do a quick
interview on camera.
And then later, we'll schedule
set up our one-on-one time.
Okay.
Don't be nervous.
Just be your honest self, 'kay?
All right.
Hunter Williams here with
local superstar Katrina Marks
who is the author of
"Just Say No to Ho Ho Ho",
offerin' a unique
perspective on Christmas.
So what was your
inspiration for the story?
Well I used to go
all out for Christmas.
Some might say I was
obsessive about it.
But last year, that
all came crashing down.
My boyfriend dumped me,
I lost my job
and I broke something
very sentimental to me.
Sounds like an
unfortunate Christmas
or country music
or a country music song.
It was then when I realized
that I was putting way too
much pressure on myself
and I thought maybe,
maybe there were others out
there that did the same.
And this book is
about freeing yourself
from the guilt and the
pressure of the holidays.
In your book,
you said that you are done
decorating for Christmas,
that people shouldn't feel
obligated to decorate.
Well for one, decorating
can be expensive
and it's a lot of work.
No one wants to take all
of those decorations down
at the end of the season.
And then there's the
issue of storage.
I mean where do you store
all this stuff you use
once a year?
Decorating can remind us
of the beauty of Christmas.
It could be a fun
bonding moment.
Yes, but the holidays
aren't always a happy time
for some people
and they don't wanna be
pressured into decorating.
This book gives them
permission to just say no
without feeling like a Scrooge.
So I take it
you didn't put up your
Christmas tree this year.
The point of my book
is that it's okay to
say no to Christmas,
the activities and obligations.
Could be quite freeing.
Well you heard it here, folks,
straight from the
author's mouth.
Free yourself from the
responsibilities of Christmas.
We got it.
That's it.
I'd like to set up
our next appointment.
Excuse me.
Hey.
Okay, yup.
I have to go.
I'll be in touch about
our next meeting, 'kay?
All right.
Ready to skate?
Hey.
How's it goin'?
Uncle Hunter.
Hey, got the skate.
How'd it go?
Terrible.
Another reporter.
I mean I don't know him well,
but he works with April and
I bumped into him last year.
There was sort of a spark.
But I don't think he
remembers me though.
He's a bit of a jerk.
How so?
I feel like he's
onto me, you know?
Like he's waitin' for me
to slip up or something.
You're just being paranoid.
Maybe.
Oh.
And you're never gonna guess
who came to the book signing.
Mark.
He did?
Why?
Wants to go to dinner.
You're not going
out with him, are you?
Absolutely not.
Although if I can't go
to any Christmas parties
or go shopping.
I'm just joking.
Don't worry.
Yeah, I'm great at that.
This 12 gifts of
Christmas idea is great.
My niece loves it.
Oh good.
I'm actually wrapping
presents right now.
Oh.
Me too.
You said last
year was tough on her.
My sister's husband
just up and left last
year before Christmas.
Wow.
That's terrible.
I'm so sorry.
I knew my
sister really needed me
and she didn't wanna
uproot my niece,
so I moved to be here with them.
That's terrible.
That was nice of you to
uproot your life for family.
Aww.
It's part of my sibling duties.
Family means everything to me.
I feel exactly the same.
I don't know what I'd
do without my sister.
She's my best friend.
And I wanna prove to them
that not all men are jerks.
Now you have your
sister and niece close by
and
possibly
a significant other to share
the holidays with.
No girlfriend
or significant other.
I did have a girlfriend
before I moved here,
but she wanted no
part of Greenbough.
Oh.
That's awful she didn't
wanna come with you.
She's a city girl.
Well what about you?
Do you have a
boyfriend, husband?
N-O.
No.
I'm a little too busy for
a relationship right now,
but I think your girlfriend
was crazy to let you go.
Thanks.
And it sounds like you
just haven't met a guy
worthy of you yet.
That's sweet of you to say.
Well it was great
connecting with you again.
Goodnight, Jolly Soul.
Sweet dreams,
Santa's Little Helper.
Hey.
Hey.
Thanks for
giving Charlotte a ride.
I had to do some
Christmas shopping
and I lost track of time.
I guess I was tryin'
to do too much.
Hmm.
Maybe this lady's book can
have some merit after all.
Book?
Oh, I'm doin' a
story on a local author
who wrote a book called
"Just Say No to Ho Ho Ho".
Funny title.
Yeah, well even funnier
is she doesn't practice
what she preaches.
What do you mean?
Well I caught her at
the Christmas tree lot
when we went to get our tree.
So?
So in her book,
she says she doesn't
wanna decorate anymore.
Maybe the tree was
for someone else.
We'll see.
I have an interview
with her again.
Hopefully I'll catch
her slippin' up.
So that's what
your story is about.
You're hoping to
catch her in a lie.
It's investigative reporting.
Hey, I am just tryin' to see
if she is who she says she is.
Right.
You sure?
Mm-hmm.
Really?
Obviously.
That's pretty shaky.
You'll see.
Maybe that was him.
Who?
This guy I met online.
You're not online
dating, are you?
No, no.
I just met this guy on
this Christmas website.
He goes by the name Jolly Soul
and we're really connecting.
We shouldn't even be here.
Oh, I had to get some of
Mrs. Goodwin's famous biscotti
for mom and dad.
Well biscotti'll get
us busted is what I say.
Katrina?
Katrina?
Take a look.
Hunter.
Hey.
Almost didn't recognize you.
Oh, well I didn't wanna
be recognized by fans.
What're you doin'?
My sister wanted to
pick up some cookies
and I needed my caffeine fix.
Right?
Right.
Hi, I'm Lindsey.
Oh, I'm sorry.
You're the one doing this
story about Katrina's book.
I am.
Actually, I'm glad
I ran into you.
I was hoping we could
set up our next interview
at the Christmas tree
lighting ceremony.
Right.
I keep hopin' you'll wanna
do somethin' Christmasy.
No.
How about we meet at the bakery?
Yeah, let's say
Monday at 10:00.
Sure, it's a date.
I mean I'll put that
date on my calendar.
Right.
It was nice to meet you.
Nice to meet you too.
Have a nice day.
That's the reporter?
Yeah and that was a close one.
He almost caught me.
You didn't tell
me he was cute.
And annoying.
And cute.
I think he has a girlfriend.
He might even be
married with a kid.
I didn't see a
ring on his finger.
Look, I don't care if I'm
a one-woman dating service.
I'll take care of you.
Hey April.
Hey.
How's the new position?
Great so far.
Thanks for putting in
a good word for me.
Well you did them a favor
by taking the position.
I mean they needed some fresh
eyes in that department.
It's really nice to have a job
where you can make
your own hours.
Can't beat that.
Unless you write a bestseller.
I'm so excited for you.
It's about time you used
that journalism degree.
Thanks.
I was just sad when you
didn't do the interview.
Yeah, plus they gave
that assignment to Hunter.
I don't know why.
I would've loved to do it.
And I would've
loved you to do it.
Well he'll do a good job.
Hunter's like an orange.
I'm sorry, did
you say an orange?
Yeah, you have to peel
back his tough exterior
to get to his sweet side.
Yeah.
Oh, but don't
tell him I said that
because he is the competition.
Oh.
Hmm.
My lips are sealed.
Well I better get back to work.
I'm off to the toy drive today.
Oh, it's this week, isn't it?
Yeah.
Okay, well we should
hang out sometime.
But after the holidays,
since I know you're not going
to any parties this year.
That's right, yes.
I mean no,
I am not going out to any
Christmas parties this year.
I'm definitely not
doing Christmas.
Thanks.
Bye.
Oh my gosh.
You almost gave me a
heart attack.
Yeah, I was on email
and you came around the-
- Yeah, well I didn't
know you were gonna.
No.
Yeah.
You should really watch
where you're goin'.
What?
Hey boss, what'd you need?
I need you to
cover the toy drive.
It's happening at
the fire station.
That sounds more
like April's thing.
No, I just sent her to cover
the hospital's
charity fashion show.
You can switch with
her if you'd like.
No, no.
Toy drive it is.
Oh, Hunter.
How's that Santa
book story going?
It's going.
Well and how many gifts
do you get each year?
One for every
child, of course.
Oh, that's amazing.
I think I've got
everything I need.
So can we get some photos?
Sure.
Great.
That's perfect.
- Ho, ho, ho.
- You know,
I'll be right back.
Hmm, I'd almost say
you're following me.
I'm just always
chasin' a good story.
Ho, ho, ho.
Okay.
I better let you get to it then.
You know, I am surprised
you're coverin' a story
about givin' away
Christmas gifts to kids.
Isn't that one way to
celebrate Christmas?
Well I guess you could
look at it that way.
But when it comes to
making sure no child
goes without knowing they're
loved or important enough
to Santa to bring them a gift,
then I don't feel like
that's a mindless thing we do
during the holidays.
Now I'm no longer the
head of fundraising
and I'm just here doin' my job.
So if it helps some
kids feel special, then
I'm sorry?
Oh.
No.
No.
No, you're right.
It's a good cause and
you're just doin' your job.
'Kay, so go in there
and help promote it.
I'm on it.
Look at this.
He's decorating
his Christmas tree.
Who's that?
Jolly Nick, your
online boyfriend?
He's not my boyfriend.
Just if I can't do Christmas,
at least I can help
someone else do Christmas.
Good point.
I'm surprised there
were guys on the forum.
He's on it for his niece,
to get ideas for Christmas
gifts and activities.
It's been really nice talkin'
to someone who loves Christmas
as much as I do.
Ahem.
Oh, as much as we do.
Thank you.
Beautiful.
- This red one?
- Yeah.
Is everything okay?
Oh, I'm just chattin'
with someone online.
Someone online?
It's a long story.
Just a friend?
Or is it a girlfriend?
Charlotte.
Charlotte, go to your room.
You're blushing.
I'm not blushing.
And he's blushing.
He's goin' red.
No, I'm not.
So what other Christmas
activities do you suggest?
Well making gingerbread houses
is always fun.
They have kits to make it easy
and your niece would
probably love that.
Wow, I haven't
made a gingerbread house
since I was a kid.
You should
definitely do it then.
You can also make
Christmas cookies,
decorate stockings
or make ornaments.
Just go to the craft store
There's something
I wanna tell you.
You think my
niece will like these?
She'll love them.
Charlotte and my sister
I got them Santa ornaments
for the next gift.
Your love of Santa
is rubbing off on me.
I'm pleased to hear it.
You need to show me
Sure, but it's
missing the first Santa
that my grandfather
ever gave me.
I accidentally
broke it last year.
I'm so sorry to hear that.
Thank you.
It makes me sad 'cause it
was very special to me.
Okay, so I'll share a
pic.
So this is what you look like.
I'm a little older now.
Well that's good.
Maybe I can see what
you look like now.
Since we both live
in Greenbough,
maybe we should meet.
I can't.
I think I have the flu.
I'll be fine.
I just can't go out for awhile.
Maybe some other time?
Sure.
He wants to meet.
He said he wants to meet.
Jolly Soul?
Mm-hmm.
What did you say?
I told him I was
sick and that I can't.
But you wanna
meet him, don't you?
Yes.
No.
I don't know.
I can tell that you like him.
Unless you have feelings
for that reporter guy.
Don't be silly.
You said there was
an initial attraction.
And why do you care
what you look like
if there's nothin' goin' on?
Just tryin' to figure
out what to wear.
Then why did you do your hair?
Maybe he wants a photo.
Maybe.
That one.
- This one?
- That one.
Not the tights, but that one.
Of course not the tights.
You totally like her.
I knew it.
No.
No, but why would you say that?
Since when do you
care what you look like
unless you like a girl?
Because it is a
business meeting and
I wanna look professional.
Okay.
Okay.
Okay.
Okay.
All right.
Thank you.
Here, let me.
I'm just Santa's Little Helper.
Ring a bell?
Anything?
Why am I so nervous?
It's not like it's a date.
It's not a date.
It's not a date.
Hey.
Hey.
- Hey.
- Hey.
After you.
No.
After you.
Ladies first.
Okay.
Hi.
Can I get a black coffee please?
Thank you.
That must be yours
because you hate Christmas.
Stop it.
It's not that I
don't like Christmas.
Make sure you make that
clear in your story.
You know, I'm not Scrooge.
I just don't think people
should feel pressured
to do certain things
during Christmas.
Well don't you miss things
like Christmas shopping?
You mean running
around exhausted
tryin' to fight the crowds?
Seein' that special someone
open your gift with delight.
Seeing them pretend to like it
while secretly planning how
to return or re-gift it.
And no romance this Christmas?
I didn't say you
can't fall in love.
I just don't think you
should date someone
just because of the pressure
to be with someone
on the holidays.
And are you seein' someone?
Maybe.
But if I was, it wouldn't
be with someone like you.
Oh.
Okay.
Jeez.
That hurts. What's
wrong with me?
I'm a nice guy.
I'm sorry.
I'm sure you're a nice guy
when you're not getting a story.
Well you know, I'm
just challenging you.
It helps you grow.
Yeah, that's easy
for you to say.
You're not the one
being challenged.
You missed a spot.
Yeah.
Yeah?
Right under the nose.
Okay, you got it.
You're good. You're good.
I got it all?
Yup.
I guess I see your point.
Yeah.
Well I really do
hope you find love.
That guy was an
idiot to let you go.
I mean
even though you were clearly
a misled about Christmas,
you have some
good attributes.
Yeah. Oh, look.
Christmas trolley.
Too bad you don't
like Christmas.
This looks fun.
Well maybe you should
take your girlfriend.
Oh, I don't-
- Wait.
Wait, are you the author
"Just Say No to Ho Ho Ho"?
Yeah.
Your book was such a relief.
I usually go all
out for Christmas.
But after reading your book,
I learned that it's okay
to turn it down a notch.
I'm so glad it helped.
Thank you.
No, thank you.
Thank you.
Merry Christmas.
See?
Put that in your story.
My book helps people.
All right.
Okay. In your book,
you mention that you were
obsessed with Christmas
before this year,
but you never said why.
Yeah, well I
don't like to talk
about my past or
personal life, you know?
Especially with you.
Okay.
Wait.
Okay, that came out wrong.
It's just you know,
you're doing the story.
It's okay.
- Fine.
- No.
- So when I was little-
- It's okay.
It's okay.
I think I have
enough for the story.
- You do?
- Yeah.
Yeah.
So that's it?
That's it.
Huh.
Take care.
Right, I will finish with that.
Oh and I emailed you a copy of
my story about Katrina Marks.
It's just a glorified
book review,
but it'll be good for
her publicity-wise.
I'm sorry you didn't get the
expose you thought you would.
I need to just stop
being so skeptical.
I love 'em.
Thanks.
Hello?
Did you hear me?
Hmm?
What?
Is something wrong?
You seem distracted.
No.
It's just Hunter.
What about Hunter?
I actually think I'm gonna
miss meeting up with him.
It's just something he said
that's been playing on my mind.
What did he say?
He said Mark was
stupid to let me go.
He said that?
That means he has
feelings for you.
He has a girlfriend.
How can you be sure?
I saw him at the skating rink
with this beautiful
woman and a young girl.
I'm sure it was her
that was calling him
during the interview.
It could've been
a sister, a friend.
If you have feelings for Hunter,
what does that mean
for Jolly Soul?
I don't know.
Jolly Soul is
sweet and kind.
He's family-oriented
and thoughtful.
It's so easy just
open up to him.
What if you meet him in real
life and there's no chemistry
like the chemistry
you have with Hunter?
If I could just
put the two together,
I'd have the perfect guy.
Maybe it's time
to meet Jolly Soul.
Do you think chemistry
is important in a relationship?
I think
chemistry is important,
but it can't be the only
thing two people share.
It won't sustain a relationship.
We have a
great connection online.
But what if we meet and we
don't feel it in person?
I suppose that's a risk
we'd have to be willing to take.
I also think
chemistry could grow
once you get to know a person.
Either way, I think we've
become great friends.
I'd be open to meeting
if you're still interested.
Mm-hmm, mm-hmm.
Yes, yes.
Yes, how about the waterfront
park tomorrow at 2:00?
Okay.
Okay.
How will I know it's you?
I'll be wearing
a red winter coat and
Christmas earrings.
Okay, see you tomorrow.
You're not supposed to eat it.
Why not?
So are you done with your
story about the author?
You like her, don't you?
I can't worry about that now.
I'm gonna meet my online friend.
You are?
Oh, okay.
Look at you two.
I wanna get her somethin'.
She was sorta my Christmas coach
tellin' me what to get
for everybody else,
so I don't know what to get her.
What does she like?
That's it.
You are a genius.
I'm gonna get goin'.
I got some shoppin' to do.
Okay, have fun.
Yeah.
Are you crazy?
I can't help it.
Think I'm falling in love.
What did you just say?
I'm just tired
of shopping online.
I need to buy something special
for Jolly Soul, for
his niece, his sister.
Maybe even Hunter
for doin' the story.
Katrina!
I gotta go.
Call you later.
I reviewed your story.
But you were right, it's
a glorified book review.
I've decided to
run April's story.
No, actually there's
something you need to see.
It might change your
mind about the story.
What is it?
Video proof that
Katrina Marks is a fraud.
I'll look it over.
I'll look it over.
Why am I so nervous?
Can't believe you're
actually meeting him.
I know.
Hope there's chemistry
like you have with that-
- Oh, chemistry
isn't everything.
You know, I feel like we bonded.
I've shared things with him
I haven't shared with anyone.
I've decided to
tell him the truth.
What?
I'm gonna tell him why
I signed up for the forum,
about my book, everything.
I know.
Wish me luck.
I've decided to air
your story tonight
on the six o'clock news.
Wait, but my story was
supposed to air tonight.
Congratulations, man.
Thanks.
I gotta get goin'.
Where are you goin'?
I gotta go home
and get ready to meet
this girl I met online.
I didn't know you
started online dating.
I'm not.
It's just someone I met
on a Christmas forum.
Christmas forum?
Where is he?
Katrina?
Katrina is Santa's
Little Helper.
Hey, how'd it go?
Oh.
You wanna talk about it?
It's her.
Who?
The girl that I met online
That makes no sense.
Actually that
makes perfect sense.
She loves Christmas so much
that she logged on to
the forum anonymously
because she had to hide
her love for Christmas.
What are you gonna do?
I don't know.
I better stop that story.
Yeah, yeah.
Go, go.
I guess he just took
one look at me and bolted.
Don't be silly.
That's absurd.
There was probably
some sort of emergency.
Well he didn't
send any messages.
I'm sure you're
goin' to find out later
that something urgent came up.
Never been so humiliated.
Hey, I need you
to stop the story.
I can't.
It's already locked
in and set to air.
There was something
I wanted to tell you.
So that's why I had to go on
the forum and be anonymous.
I wanted you to know the truth.
I don't know why
you didn't show,
but I just hope
everything is okay.
Yeah, but now
she's gonna hate me.
I'm sorry you
couldn't stop the story.
Yeah, I ruined it.
Well maybe reach out to
her, explain your side.
No, I can't.
Why not?
There's just no use.
It's over.
Have you heard
anything from him yet?
Nope.
Maybe this thing
with Jolly Soul
wasn't supposed to work out.
Look, your story.
In the book "Just
say No to Ho Ho Ho",
author Katrina Marks
writes about just sayin' no
to Christmas shoppin'
and gift buyin'.
And yet, this happened.
Did you see that?
I can't believe it.
I knew he was up to no good.
I should've listened to myself.
I started to think he was
different and I was wrong.
What an idiot!
Maybe you could come
clean, explain your side
or tell everyone that
I convinced you
to keep up the ruse.
No.
It's over.
It's over.
I'm sorry Leslie pulled your
story and ran mine instead.
Go ahead, open it.
Wow.
Thank you.
I hope we can put our
competitiveness aside.
Let's just work together.
Yeah.
Hey April.
I wanna ask a favor.
Can I come in to do
another interview please?
Thanks.
Hi, I'm here
with Katrina Marks,
author of "Just
Say No to Ho Ho Ho"
to set the record straight.
When I wrote "Just
Say No to Ho Ho Ho",
I wrote a rant.
'Cause my Christmas
did not go as planned
and I was so stressed
because I always do too much.
Well my sister found it
and she sent it to a publisher
who wanted to
release it as a book.
I felt like I had to
hide my love of Christmas
in order to sell the book,
so I tried to be
someone I wasn't.
I discovered that
I miss decorating
and buying gifts
and doing Christmasy things.
And I admit you know, I
did decorate a little.
I got a tree, baked a little.
Even shop for
friends and family,
but I did not overbook myself
and no one expected
anything from me this year.
Thought it was really
nice to slow down
and not worry about making
sure everything is perfect.
My holidays have become
more of a to-do list
rather than spending
time with loved ones,
doing fun traditions
together of the season.
It's been my best Christmas yet,
except for the story last night.
I realized that Christmas
is not about making sure
everything is perfect
which is still the
point of my book.
It's about
sharing the joy,
the kindness,
the magic of the holidays.
That's so true.
Well there you have it, folks,
straight from the
author's mouth.
Merry Christmas, everyone.
That's a wrap.
Thank you for letting me
tell my side of the story.
I'm so glad it was
you and not Hunter
who did the interview.
Katrina, you
don't know, do you?
Know what?
Hunter tried to
stop the story.
He did?
He said something about
a girl he met online
at a Christmas forum and
he tried to stop the story,
but it was too late.
I had no idea.
Merry Christmas.
Merry Christmas.
Merry Christmas, everyone.
I'm glad she got to
set the record straight.
Are you still not gonna tell
her that you're Jolly Soul?
Hey, you wanna watch a movie?
No thanks.
Hello?
I'm so sorry.
I'm gonna have to say no.
I just can't commit at the
moment, but thank you so much.
Who was that?
The hospital.
They wanted me for
fundraising next year.
I can't believe
you just said no.
Well I'm still gonna
volunteer for the toy drive,
but I'm not gonna go crazy
and overbook myself anymore.
I want plenty of time for me
and family next Christmas.
No, I'm not available.
That's right.
Oh, I'm so sorry.
I thought you were someone else.
You want me to write a book
on the joys of Christmas.
Mm-hmm.
Okay, sure.
I'll look out for that email.
Sure.
Your next book.
That's so exciting
and one that truly
represents who you are.
Uh-huh, yeah.
Guess that's true.
You don't seem
to be too excited.
Isn't this what
you always wanted?
I always thought so,
but now I'm not so sure.
I've missed our talks.
I believe we have
something special
and I'd love to meet you.
I'll be at the park tonight
Christmas Eve, seven o'clock.
I'll be wearing a red jacket
and Christmas earrings.
I hope to see you there.
Thank you, Uncle Hunter.
Thanks.
I love fuzzy socks.
Yeah.
They're cute.
You're welcome.
Hey, what's going on?
She wants to meet.
When?
In 15 minutes.
What?
What are you still
doin' sitting here?
She's gonna hate me when
she finds out I'm Jolly Soul.
No, not if you
tell her the truth.
She won't hate
you, Uncle Hunter.
No one can hate you.
Mm-hmm.
That's very sweet.
Thank you.
Plus I like her.
She makes you happy.
I agree.
Well.
Go.
Go, go, go.
- Go.
- Okay.
Before you say anything,
I know you weren't
expectin' it to be me.
I actually knew it was you.
You did.
And you still wanted to meet?
I was pleased it was you.
You were.
Oh.
Kind of annoying, but I
like how you challenged me.
I like how I got to
know the part of you
that loves Christmas
and I'm sorry how
my story turned out.
I guess you were
just doing your job.
So now what?
I tried not to look
for love on Christmas.
Yeah.
But sometimes love finds
you when you least expect it.
So does that mean you like me?
Maybe.
Oh no, I didn't know we
were exchanging gifts now.
We're not.
Well I found this
at a vintage store.
I don't know what to say.
I know it's not the one
your grandfather got you.
It's the perfect gift.
Thank you so much.