The Nine Kittens of Christmas (2021) - full transcript
Zachary and Marilee are thrown back together at Christmas when they're tasked with finding homes for a litter of adorable kittens.
Ambrose!
Ambrose!
Ambrose!
Ambrose, where are you?
There you are, Ambrose!
Hey buddy.
Okay.
So, the first rule of setting up
the North Pole...
Is make sure Ambrose
isn't underfoot.
Oh, what's gotten into you,
Ambrose?
He's probably just anxious
because Zachary's leaving
on his ski trip tomorrow.
The cat's got a point.
What is it, three Christmases in
a row off skiing with the boys?
It's becoming an annual
tradition.
Kind of like Christmas.
That's my dad's way
of saying
his misses having you
at our house.
He must.
Otherwise he wouldn't be laying
on the guilt like this.
Ahh, if I was doing that
I'd probably mention
that I need volunteers
for tonight.
Volunteers besides my daughter.
So?
You in for tonight?
As long as you respect
my boundaries.
I'm not wearing it, Sam.
He is so wearing it.
Okay, well...
those omega-3s are going to do
his arthritis wonders.
Have we gone over
the holiday pet hazards?
The dangers of Christmas
leftovers.
I don't mean to be
a broken record,
I just don't want any
emergencies while I'm away.
Well, you won't get any
from us.
Have a wonderful trip.
-Merry Christmas.
-Merry Christmas.
Let's go, Mr. Butters.
There you are, Duchess.
Come here.
-Hey.
-Hey.
Mm, wow. What did I do
to deserve that?
I'm just in a good mood.
Because I'm driving you
to the airport?
Or because I got you
a surprise gift?
Hmm.
Oh, look at that.
That's to entertain you
on your flight over.
And maybe she'll even let you
play with it, Duchess.
Is this because you feel bad
you're not coming with us?
-Today.
-Mm-hmm.
Once I finish this year's books
I'll be on the next flight out
to Oregon.
And I'm going to be
100 percent.
Focused on my family.
Okay, look at the upside,
all right?
You'll have time for Duchess
to meet everyone
and you'll have time to catch up
before I get there.
What, you haven't been home
for Christmas in like...
Five years.
And look at what
you've accomplished.
You finished residency,
opened up a new practice.
Co-opened.
And who's the chew toy
on top?
You met me.
That's right.
Okay, what's wrong?
Just promise me
you'll be there.
I'll be there, all right?
With bells on, right, Duchess?
Oh, hey. Glad I caught you.
Found this in the bottom
of my closet.
It's for the event tonight.
It says one size fits all
but they can sometimes run
a little small.
Good news is that's not big
enough to fit a Santa outfit.
Yeah, but the bad news is
there's only one other thing
that it can be.
Sam, we talked about this.
How did you come up
with her name?
Duchess?
Well, when I adopted her
I wanted her to have a name
like Queenie
but one that was sort of clear
that she was her own cat.
I miss Queenie.
Oh, I know.
We all do.
Queenie was one of a kind.
An alpha-cat who ruled
my heart.
Duchess is less of a ruler
and more of a listener.
But still royal.
Yeah.
What's this?
Oh, my hand Santa.
Okay. I am seeing some thematic
links with your hand turkey.
You'll have to excuse
our lack of tree.
Mom was waiting on you
to pick one out.
She was?
I've been waiting for you
to do a couple things...
like open this.
What is this?
I found it when I was cleaning
out the lake house.
Mom must have left it.
Thought we could
open it together.
Hmm...
"To Marilee and Jaclyn.
Love Mom. Merry Christmas."
This must be 20 years old.
I know.
I don't know how we missed it.
You missed a present?
Well, the year our parents
passed away
we missed a lot of things.
Do you want to do the honors,
open it for us?
Oh, wow.
It's an advent calendar.
Look at this.
She must have
made this herself.
What do you think's inside?
Petrified chocolate.
Mummified candy cane?
By now.
Hey, you want to open December
18th and break the tie?
What about all the days
before that?
We have to wait
till next year?
She's so smart.
She knows what I'm going to say
before I say it.
Okay, go ahead.
A charm!
It's a sleigh bell.
I'm trying to think of where
I remember these from.
Oh. Mom used to sew them
to Tabby's collar.
He did not like that.
The squirrels did.
Yeah.
So, what made Miles delay
his trip?
Accounting deadline.
Always seems to come up
when we're trying to go away.
But other than that,
things are going well?
Yeah.
We added two new exam rooms,
a receptionist.
What? Oh, personally.
-Yeah.
-Okay.
It's good.
It's great.
Miles is the only person
I've ever dated
who's, you know, more ambitious
than me.
Oh? Tell me more.
Well, I think, we're at
kind of a crossroads.
A good crossroads.
The whole time we've ever dated
we've always been under stress.
But now that that's easing up
you must be getting to see
his non-work side.
Yeah. When he gets here
I'll get to see it for
a whole week, you know?
Is he good with kids,
can he make a mean cocoa.
Ooh, cocoa!
Well, with Sarah around
you'll get the answers
to both those questions
pretty fast.
I thought photos with Santa
were at the Town Green.
Oh they, they were, but they
moved them last year
when the firefighters
took over.
But don't worry,
Zachary takes a ski trip
this time each year.
Yeah, I wasn't...
I remember Zachary,
with the orange cat.
That is a really good memory.
You were what, three?
I don't know, was I?
Come on.
Follow mom, come on.
So, was Zachary your boyfriend?
Well, when I lived here, yeah.
And then when I moved to Miami
he wasn't anymore.
Why?
Sierra, auntie might not want
to get into it right now.
You know, I can stay here
with Sierra
if you guys want to take off.
No, no, no, no, no.
Listen, I came here
to take Santa photos
and that is what I'm going
to do, okay?
-Oh!
-Ohh!!
-Marilee!
-Zachary, um...
What, what are you
doing here?
I'm visiting family.
Sorry.
You look great.
Thank you.
You look festive.
Sam's idea.
-Let me take that.
-Alright.
Uh, Zachary, sorry,
you remember everyone.
Hi everybody.
We were just talking
about you.
Oh!
Look, I think Santa's ready
for you.
Let's go see your friends,
okay?
Come on, Marilee.
You don't want to miss this.
Yeah, I'll catch right up.
She's cute.
We weren't actually talking
about you.
We were talking about Ambrose.
How is he by the way?
He's good.
Still going strong, yeah.
And Queenie?
Oh. I'm, I'm so sorry, I...
That's okay.
I, I didn't mean to...
No, it happened four and a half
years ago and I'm still...
I had her for 18 years and
I'm... I'm lucky for that, so.
And right after you moved
to Miami?
Yeah.
That couldn't have been easy.
No. But things picked up
after that.
I finished my residency
and I got my own clinic.
I share it with...
I knew it. I knew it.
Remember, I told you
that you'd be running
your own show one day.
You did.
And what are you doing?
-Still here at the fire station.
-Mm-hmm.
Yeah, I made captain
about four years ago.
Wow!
Yeah.
-Congratulations.
-Thanks.
It's not that much different
than being an engineer,
but the schedule's better
and I'm traveling more.
Headed up to Mount Hood
tomorrow so.
Well, won't Sam miss you
at his house?
Ah, I needed to start mixing
things up at Christmas.
Um, just... You have
a little...
-Oh.
-Sorry.
Oh, oh...
Thank you, thank you.
Yeah.
Blocking your, your eyes.
Don't want to be out of
the elf code.
Yeah.
Dress code, we have a certain
dress code, so.
Well, um... Merry Christmas.
Merry Christmas.
Let's take some Santa photos.
Yay, there she is.
Marilee?
I thought that was you.
Sam! Harriet!
Oh, my goodness!
Gabi, have you graduated
from college?
Yeah, I graduated last year.
Yeah. She's actually Sam's
newest rookie.
Oh, wow.
I am impressed.
Wow.
Oh, and I am very needed
at the Santa photo booth.
It was so good
to see you guys.
Same here.
It's been too long. Bye.
So, I like B.
Sierra likes D
and Kyle likes C.
Mmkay. Well, all of those
letters that you heard,
we'll take one of each.
One way to solve it.
-So.
-Mm-hmm.
What is new in
Zachary's world?
Um, well he got
a promotion.
Well, that's good.
And a elf suit.
So, basically things are...
Yeah, the same.
He seemed good, though.
-Good.
-Yeah.
Anyone free on Saturday
to help a good cause?
Well, it depends.
What's the event?
Our annual benefit for
Children's Hospital.
Except this year we're building
a game room.
Oh. Worthy cause.
She will take any excuse
to get dressed up.
This is true.
Well, we'll have a band,
local chefs, kids' activities.
Okay. Well, you had me
at chefs,
so I will go ahead
and take four.
Don't you mean five?
One for Miles.
Yeah, right. Miles.
Um, I guess he will be here
in time, so five it is.
I know you want to come, buddy.
But staying at the firehouse
is a win-win.
You get spoiled rotten
and I get some R&R.
Just after I take care
of this.
Oh, my gosh.
Hello, hello.
How many of you are
in there?
Okay.
Oh, you're just in time.
We overcommit again?
You can never overcommit
to charity, Sam.
These are for the hospital,
these are for the gift-wrapping
event,
and the rest is for
the Redmond Food Bank.
You don't mind the drive?
Well, it's your day off.
I figured I'd whisk you away and
get you to myself for a while.
Nice to have some,
you know, distance.
Distance, from what?
Don't worry. They know
it's my day off.
I have two captains
covering for me.
It's Zachary.
He needs me to swing by,
apparently. It's...
Urgent.
All right Sierra.
Advent calendar and breakfast,
one minute warning.
Two-minute warning!
I don't think Sierra
was expecting
a new best friend
for Christmas.
I don't think Duchess was
expecting a personal trainer.
Oh, she loves the attention.
I have so little left
in the tank
by the time I get home
from work.
This is nice for her.
I don't know how you have
much time left for Miles.
How do you two do it?
Oh, we sneak in a dinner here
and a lunch date there.
Mostly we just flirt in the
hallways between check-ups.
Well, must be working.
You two look smitten.
Yeah.
Calendar... ready.
Okay.
Number 19.
What do we have today?
A present.
Oh.
I can see why Grandma
put that in there.
She was always the best
present giver.
Mm-hmm.
Birthdays, holidays...
And Christmas Eve.
Duchess!
Oh, breakfast? Sierra...
Oh.
She loves that cat.
Hey. Speaking of
the Christmas Eve gift,
I haven't quite nailed down
what I'm getting Sierra yet.
You didn't finish all of your
Christmas shopping, did you?
Is Christmas shopping
ever done?
Eh, not really.
Okay.
Uh-oh.
There are only seven kittens
here but we started with nine.
Did you count the orange
one twice?
There are two orange ones.
Maybe three?
Where'd they go?
What are we going to do?
Um, just breathe.
Take it a step at a time.
First we gotta figure out
how old they are,
are they healthy, weaned?
That's a good idea.
Ambrose's vet is
just down the street,
maybe... maybe he can
fit 'em in.
Oh, good catch!
Uh, Zachary?
Oh. Thank goodness.
-Here.
-Oh, oh!
You're going to need
a bigger box.
Yeah.
Oh!
Oh, guys.
What are you saying?
That you don't want to go
to the benefit
or that you're not coming here
at all?
It's not me making
this decision, it's...
It's the new on-call vet.
The record system's
crashed twice.
Yeah, but it crashes on us
all the time.
I mean, he'll figure it out.
And what if he doesn't?
I'm not like you, I can't
just turn the work switch off.
Even for my family?
Look, I knew you'd be upset
so I have a solution.
President's Day.
We fly out to Oregon
Friday night,
take the long weekend...
President's Day
is not Christmas.
Okay.
I'm sensing that this is
a deal-breaker
so just forget
I said anything
and I'll fly out tomorrow
for the benefit party.
No. No, I don't want that.
I don't, I don't want
a concession.
I want you to want
to be here,
to want to spend time
with my family.
And I'm tired of...
...I don't know.
What are you saying?
Miles, I missed my
High School Reunion.
We had to prep for
our grand opening.
And the trip,
the cruise that we had planned
with your family,
we had to cancel that.
My family knows we're running
a business.
Yeah.
For the last two years,
Miles, all we have done
is just go, go, go, go, go.
It's always one thing
after the other.
I just, I...
I don't know. I...
What are we doing?
What are you saying?
That's it? That's all he had
to say?
Well, yeah...
I figured he would've fought
for me a little harder.
I don't know him that well,
I only know him through
video chats.
But I do know you and I know
when something's wrong.
And it may not feel like
this now
but I think you did
the right thing.
Yeah, at the wrong time.
I don't want to ruin Christmas
with my moping.
Hey, you spent two years
with Miles.
You are allowed to mope.
And besides it's more than
just a breakup.
I mean, you share a business.
I don't even want to think about
that right now.
No need.
You don't have to solve
everything in a day.
Uh...
Hi.
I figured you would've been
skiing by now.
Ah, well, these guys
thought differently.
Oh.
My goodness,
look at this face.
Yeah.
What is this?
Somebody left them at the fire
station this morning.
I'm taking them over
to Doctor Roberts
to get them checked out.
-What?
-Doctor Roberts?
I hate to break it to you
but he retired last month.
He sent that email.
Right. I read the email.
But I thought that was next
year he was retiring.
Okay, hi.
I'm a vet!
You're a vet.
Oh, my gosh. Let's get these
checked out.
Well, I think by their teeth
and their paws
that they're about
10 weeks old.
Healthy like the others?
I'm assuming that they need
their shots
but I can get
those overnighted.
Well, then I just need like a,
like a big pen?
You know, with like a,
like a roof?
I guess I have heard of such
things, they're called houses.
I just... I'm not sure how
they'll do in my house.
I just bought it and I'm
renovating the kitchen so.
Oh. Well, uh,
what if we...
and, I mean, I don't want
to speak for you here,
but could keep them here.
No.
It's a very kind offer
but you have a whole family.
Who can help.
Trust me, this will make
Sierra's year.
Well, I wouldn't want
to be stepping
on your Christmas plans.
Oh well, when paws
are this cute
they can step all over
our plans.
Mm-hmm.
All right.
Well, it would give me more time
to help find them homes.
Oh. Well, you don't have to do
that by yourself.
Oh, no, no.
I found them so I should be
the one to find them homes.
Yeah, but what about
your ski trip?
I think we all agree that
that's indefinitely postponed.
So, you don't want
my help then?
Well, I wouldn't say no
if it was offered.
Great!
Then I guess you're
working together.
Okay. Well, I will let you two
sort this out.
Okay. Got nine kittens.
Okay, Well, here we go.
Oh!
Look this way guys! Hi!
Zachary.
Zach, I can't get the photo
if you're blocking the shot.
I know, but I gotta place them
just right
for the adoption flyer.
♪ ...See the lights
in the dark. ♪
♪ I'ma put on my
favorite sweater. ♪
♪ The sun is shining
in the snow ♪
♪ Be the star on the show ♪
♪ Warm me up in
the winter weather ♪
♪ 'Cause you know
it's that time of year ♪
♪ When we both
got to be together ♪
♪ Underneath the mistletoe ♪
♪ It's Christmas time ♪
♪ It's Christmas time... ♪
Shopping for anyone
in particular, ma'am?
My caroling group
Secret Santa.
Aww.
Here, I thought you might be
upgrading my stocking.
The one you've had
for the past 20 years?
Please, Sam.
Some traditions are sacred.
Yeah? What about the one
that I get a kiss every day.
Hmm, when did that start?
Today.
Where is all this confidence
coming from?
From a man who's about to spend
a lot more time with his wife.
Fire chiefs can't go
part-time, Sam.
Maybe it's time I stopped
being fire chief.
You mean retire?
You can't imagine how happy
this makes me.
So, when will you make
it official?
I'm giving the speech
at the benefit on Saturday.
It's as good a time as any.
But there's someone I need
to talk to first.
Hi Sam.
Hi Harriet.
-Hey.
-Hi.
Marilee.
Don't tell me you wrangled her
into Operation Kitten Rescue.
Well, uh... I needed a vet.
And I'm a vet.
Oh. We just did a photoshoot
with these guys.
You gotta see this.
Come on.
Who could say no
to those faces?
You didn't say they were
that cute.
Well, come on,
everyone looks cute
sitting in a wicker basket.
That's actually not true,
but...
Wait, wait. You, you want
to adopt a kitten?
Or you know. Two.
It's been a while since
we've had a cat in the house.
Can you guys give us a few days
to kitten proof?
Yeah, of course.
Now, can I get a kiss?
Hi, mom, I'm home.
Okay, I think we have it
all set. Call her.
Okay.
Hey Sierra, come here
for a sec.
What?
We just want to show
you something.
Surprise!
So, you only get to keep them
for a few days?
Mm-hmm. Until we find them
a forever home.
Why can't it be here?
They're happy with Duchess.
Well, because they're going to
need an owner to buy them food
and keep them warm
and take them to the vet.
And the best Christmas present
we can give little white paws
here is a forever home.
His name's Dasher.
Oh, you've already named them.
Dasher, Dancer,
Prancer, Vixen,
Comet, Cupid,
Donner, Blitzen.
And that one's Rudolph.
Nine, well that's perfect.
And on that note,
I think it's time we talk about
not getting attached, okay?
Sure. As soon as I find
some old socks.
I'm making stockings for them.
Too late.
What do you think?
"My name's Prancer,
"I'm eight inches tall
but I tell people I'm nine.
"Seeking a human that enjoys
"shelving and salmon jerky
as much as I do."
Uh-huh.
"BTW I have six more siblings
in case you know anyone."
That's cute.
Well...
We have a winner.
Winner? You made one?
Yes, and you'll never ever
see it.
Show it to me.
No.
-Come on!
-No.
-Yes.
-No.
There might be something
we can use in there.
Just let me see.
Or not.
Looks like a mugshot.
Wow. Like the cat went
to the DMV.
"Ten-week-old kittens,
fully housebroken."
We might want to put a question
mark on that.
"Prefer to be adopted
in pairs."
Okay.
Can you tell I made that up?
Well, you know what,
there's actually a little bit
of science to that.
Kittens often latch onto
a littermate.
They call it the "bonded pair."
Oh, so it works.
Yeah.
Lines down Oak and Pickford.
Be right there.
Charity present wrapping,
bring a couple kittens,
up the cute factor.
Right.
Won't you be busy
wrapping presents?
Ah. You'd be surprised
how much I've changed
since we last saw each other.
I can now wrap presents
and get kittens adopted
at the same time.
See you later?
It's a date.
Uh, a meet-up.
Join up. Live...
I'll see you there.
Rendezvous.
-See you later.
-Okay.
Be safe.
Hey.
I heard about the downed power
lines on the radio.
I wasn't sure you'd make it.
Yeah.
We cleared it up
pretty quickly.
Oh.
Does this mean that you've
forgiven me for the elf suit?
They're for your wife.
You know, I may bust
your chops
but I get why you leave town
during the holidays.
The most wonderful time
of the year?
Not really so wonderful
when you're riding solo.
You're not solo,
you're family.
You're right.
Gotta remind myself
how lucky I am.
Or you could just
remind yourself
to show up for
the tree trimming.
People keep up traditions
for a reason, you know.
Life can change
at any moment.
You gotta hang on to
the good times.
You say that like
something's changing.
It's time for Harriet and I
to start our next chapter.
And to do that I need to leave
the firehouse.
You're retiring?
I liked how I said it better.
I don't know what I'm thinking.
Uh, congratulations.
That's a... that's a big step
for you two.
I just um... I can't imagine
going to work without you.
Hey. You're not getting rid
of me that easily.
Like I said, we're family.
Yeah.
Ah. Look at that fold.
Almost perfect.
Easy, Captain.
I might be a rookie
but I am in charge of
the assignments on Saturday.
Translation, be nice to her
or she'll give you valet duty.
Funny, that's what I signed you
up for.
Wait, the benefit Saturday?
Who said I was attending?
You cancelled your ski trip.
You have no excuse not to.
Except that I have nine kittens
to find homes for.
We heard you were down
to seven.
Zachary, Zach...
Yeah.
You have to go, okay?
Dad's making his
big announcement.
That soon?
Oh. It's going to make it hard
to figure out a gift for him.
I had an idea but maybe I should
run it by the others.
-Oh, let me hear it.
-Okay.
Bring up the website.
Local, sustainable
and they do rush orders.
And I'm going to say no.
What?
No, you haven't even seen
the detail view yet, look.
But it's a bench.
With a... a plaque on it.
You know, we can put it
out front
and we'll call it
"Sam's Bench".
It's a wonderful idea.
I only see one problem.
He's still alive.
You only think that
because of the photo.
I mean, imagine it without
the sympathy flowers.
I can't.
Okay. Back to
the drawing board.
What do we have here?
Bundt cake?
Mom's cranberry
sour cream bundt cake.
Ooh. Maybe you should let me
be the judge of that?
Mmmhmm.
Judge away.
Mmhmm.
Nailed it.
Mmhmm.
-You truly honored her memory.
-Awww.
So, I am still struggling with
Sierra's Christmas Eve gift.
Well, there is a litter
of kittens up for adoption.
Ugh.
Too obvious?
Too ambitious.
Not quite ready for pets yet.
Okay.
So, it's a no on the bench,
no on the golf clubs.
What about a scooter?
Oooh, now you're talking.
The man's been driving a fire
engine for 40 years.
You're really going to downgrade
him to a scooter?
Well, this might sound
ridiculous but he actually has-
You know what?
Never mind.
We don't have enough time.
Come on Gabi,
out with it.
Yeah. There are
no bad ideas,
except for Caleb's scooter.
Okay. But it's kind of something
you have to see.
I know this truck.
Sam bought it at an online
auction a few years back.
He had big plans
to restore it
until he realized that restoring
things isn't his thing.
So, I made it my project.
I was going to surprise him
with it on his birthday.
I got a little derailed
and here we are.
Huh, looks like you made
a solid start.
I did get the tank working.
Do any work on the engine?
Purrs like a kitten.
But that's the extent
of my knowledge.
I've never done body work
let alone on an antique.
It's not exactly
a one-person job.
No. But it might be
a 12-person job. Hey?
I think we can do this.
Uh, any chance we can switch?
This fence weighs like
two pounds.
You don't have to play
the superhero.
No, it's not that.
I just don't want Ambrose
to see me with these two...
...late.
Oh! There he is.
Hi Ambrose.
My squishy little
marshmallow.
It's so good to see you.
It's been so long, my love.
Your purr's gotten so loud.
Like sleeping next
to a motocross rally.
Yeah. It means you're happy.
Ambrose?
Any chance you want to say
hi to these two little...
Oh, oh!
Oh, Ambrose. You don't have
to be scared.
For the record,
he's not scared.
He just doesn't like
new things.
Let me help you there.
Oh yeah, doesn't like
new things, huh?
I wonder where he got
that from.
So, once you claim one of these
guys we take care of the rest.
We do everything right away.
Home inspection,
spay and neuter contract.
And if everything checks out,
kitten delivery.
-Oh, excuse me for a sec.
-Yeah.
So, has the eagle landed?
I'm sorry, I don't speak
old movie.
Did you get the fire truck
into the truck bay?
Oh, yeah.
And Becca's wife is going to
loan us
her paint guns and sanders.
Great.
Now, all we have to do
is cross our fingers
that we can get it done
in time.
♪...Jingle Bells,
jingle bells... ♪
Can I wrap that for you?
On second thought,
that's all you, Zach.
-Oh! Can I help you?
-Thank you.
Well, if you were going
for a family resemblance
I think you found your cat.
I'll just... I'll leave.
Any luck over there?
Yeah, yeah.
Ninety percent sure I found
a family for Vixen
and, I think, Mason over there
is going to take Prancer.
Hope so.
He was really talking
your ear off.
Yeah. Well, you know, helping
him out, I am a vet.
Oh. I'm sure that's why.
Mm-hmm.
Well, I can see why you use
gift bags at Christmas.
Yeah, convenience.
Right.
What? You think you can
outdo me?
Oh, I... I think I know
I can outdo you.
Let's see it.
Okay.
All right. Here's where
you fell off the sleigh.
It's the triangle fold.
-Triangle fold.
-Yeah.
-You get one fold like that.
-Mm-hmm.
Nice and flat. Another fold
and tuck it over.
Triangle fold.
Voila.
I mean, I could do that
if I wanted to.
-Okay.
-Yeah.
I'll just...
-You can...
-No, you can.
-You have the tape.
-Okay.
It's fine. I'll let you do
the triangle.
...Triangle fold.
Thing. So, just...
Ooh, peppermint.
I must be on your nice list.
You got four kittens adopted
in a day.
You're on everyone's
nice list.
Well, I didn't do it alone.
And how is Zachary?
He's fun.
He was always fun.
Why did you break up
with him again?
I don't know.
It'd been two years
and I wanted more,
and he felt like things
were good
just the way that
they were so-
So, when you'd bring up
the future...
He would say "why mess
with a good thing."
So, he struggles with change.
It's not too uncommon.
I guess, I struggle with waiting
for people to change, so.
Yeah, but you took
the internship in Miami.
Good for you.
I know.
I just thought it would be
a wakeup call, instead it was...
An ending.
And now?
And now I'm...
A grown woman
who knows he didn't step up
when he had the chance and...
I don't know, no matter what
chemistry we have,
I've gotta move on.
Just remember that just because
someone doesn't like change
doesn't mean that they're
not capable of it.
No. This is my breakfast,
not yours.
Yes, I did sleep in
these clothes.
But you know how comfy
the lounger is.
Can you blame me?
Enough of the dramatics,
Ambrose.
You're just smelling
the kittens
and maybe a little bit
of Marilee.
We were wrapping presents.
Don't get your hopes up, okay?
She made her mind up about me
a long time ago.
So, we're just going to get
the kittens adopted,
then we'll be done,
and you and I will have
a nice Christmas.
I guess I'll buy coffee.
The whole firehouse knows?
News travels fast.
I guess, I'd better make
an announcement soon.
I planned on doing it
at the benefit but...
What's stopping you?
Well, I can't really quit
unless I name my successor.
Yeah. That's a tough one.
I mean, you really transformed
the whole department.
The mentoring program,
the holiday outreach.
No one can fill your shoes.
How can you be so sure
if you never try them on?
Wait.
You want me to be chief?
I think the question is,
do you want to be?
I feel like there's pictures
of us in that.
I feel like we have pictures
of our grandparents in that.
Yeah, we have deep roots
around here.
That's the beauty of Jamestown.
Imagine spending five years
of your life
just struggling to get a
foothold only to realize
the place you feel most at home
is the one that you left.
Well, if that's true then Miami
wasn't for nothing.
It helped you figure out
what you didn't want.
Now, it's time to figure out
what you do want.
Well, that's easy.
A practice with boundaries.
Getting to know
my clients' names.
Weekends, evenings to myself.
Vacations.
Preferably somewhere closer
to you guys.
Hmm. I'm liking this practice.
Keep talking.
So, the outdoor market's
too crowded,
the ice rink is too dangerous.
Same goes with the snow
play area.
Well, there aren't too many
events that are BYO kittens.
Yeah.
Unless we make our own event.
You're thinking
what I'm thinking?
I don't know.
You thinking cat cafe?
-Okay.
-Yeah.
Well, you think she's going
to let us do it here?
I don't see why not.
You could introduce yourself,
play the vet card,
see if she's game.
Yeah, something tells me
it's going to go over better
if you ask.
Hi.
All right.
Bets in, you guys.
Whoever guesses today's charm
gets an extra pecan bun.
Hmm.
A Santa hat?
Ooh.
Uh, harp.
Angel.
Cheater!
You only said that
'cause I said harp.
Fine, bow. Uh, ribbon.
Okay. Let's see.
Ah, cheater wins.
What is it?
A bow with no gift.
Yes.
What do you think it means?
Hmm... I don't know.
Wait a minute. You know what
these are from?
These are from Mom's
charm bracelet,
the one that she
used to wear.
Right, to church.
When she'd sing
on Christmas Eve.
Yeah, and then she would
take it off
when she was making sugar
cookies and put it by the sink.
And then we would fight over
wearing it.
Yeah.
Oh, it's like getting a little
piece of her back.
Yeah, it is.
Now, I just remembered
something.
It's 1:00. I have to give
Rudolph his vitamin drops.
♪ Ding dong Merrily on high ♪
♪ In heaven the bells
are ringing ♪
♪ Ding dong verily the sky... ♪
-Hey.
-Hey.
Uh, wow. So, we're doing
the cat cafe tonight.
Yeah.
Kate, the owner, said she'd
take care of refreshments.
We just have to bring some
cat supplies and cat toys.
Great.
Yeah, how'd you swing that?
Oh, I may have promised her
that I would bring
a bunch of firemen.
Ah, yes, the old fireman trick.
Works every time.
Hey. This remind you
of anything?
Being back here
in the store.
When we first met?
You scolded me about giving
Ambrose milk
and you called me a hero.
I think, I even gave you
a double hero.
That's right.
And now you're like
a superhero.
Because of the... just...
there are a lot of cats now.
Well, I'm sure you've even been
called that before, so you know.
First time from you though,
which means something.
♪ O Christmas tree,
O Christmas tree ♪
♪ Thy leaves are
so unchanging ♪
Well, no one said we couldn't
draw a crowd.
Yeah.
Firefighters heard about
the food,
the ladies heard about
the firefighters,
one hand washes the other.
There is nothing a woman
likes more
than seeing a man hold a cat,
except for when it's a kitten.
I tell my cat everything.
What I spend on cat food
I save on therapy.
You look like you could use
an eggnog latte.
Oh, running out of cat jokes
out there.
You can always wear one.
Okay. Tell me about this.
You have a cat sweater
but no cat.
Running this cafe is my life
right now.
I hate to think of a cat waiting
for me at home all day.
Well, what if it was like a...
a bookstore cat.
Aren't bookstore cats usually
sleepy, chill, older?
What if I could guarantee you
two out of the three?
Come and take a look
right here.
-Hi sweetie.
-Hi.
-He's pretty chill.
-Very chill.
And sleepy.
-Hi baby.
-Hi.
Thanks again.
Thank you for coming.
Well, Prancer and Vixen
have been claimed.
And Comet is going to the lady
who liked my therapy joke.
Well, she's a therapist
so I doubt that.
And this little sleepyhead
has shown he's going to make
a really good bookstore kitty.
Dasher and Dancer
are going with Sam.
Okay, so that leaves us three.
Uh, speaking of Sam.
He's retiring and he asked me
to be chief.
Wow! Zach, that's amazing.
But what if I don't want
the job?
Why wouldn't you want the job?
You're perfect for it.
You're experienced,
you're qualified, you're...
Good. I'm good.
You know, why sign up for more
drama when I'm good.
Because what if you could be
better than good?
Better than good?
What if it's worse?
Then I'm not good anymore
and that's why "good"
is good enough.
Wow. Been here before.
So, I'm just going to let you
work that one out,
um, while I figure out...
Wait. There's only eight.
There's only eight.
Dasher, Dancer, Prancer,
Vixen, Comet,
Cupid, Donner, Blitzen.
Rudolph.
Rudolph.
-Rudolph!
-Rudolph!
Buddy.
Where did you go?
Come here, buddy.
Come on.
-Rudolph!
-Rudolph!
-Rudolph!
-Rudolph!
Ru-
-Sorry.
-It's okay.
Rudolph.
No.
-You go.
-You.
-You little sneaker.
-You scared us.
You did scare us.
Hi sweetie. I know.
Marilee, when I said, good...
It's fine. It's fine, no.
Well, it's a big day tomorrow
so I should...
♪ Deck the halls
with boughs of holly ♪
♪ Fa, la, la, la, la,
la, la, la, la ♪
You're it!
Tag.
Our go-to whenever Mom and Dad
were taking too long.
Well, we're certainly
carrying on that tradition.
Okay.
You sure you don't like
this one?
I was kind of feeling it.
See this is where you and I
are a good team.
You go off of instinct
where I stick to a very strict
set of criteria.
Here we go.
Because what may seem like
the perfect tree
doesn't mean that it always
passes the test.
What test?
Have I not told you about
the Christmas tree test?
No, you have.
But at the time she was
a little more interested
in her sippy cup.
Okay. Like this one.
First you've got to make sure
that it's fresh.
Inhale deeply, see if
it smells Christmassy.
You know, like the spirit
of Christmas.
Then you gotta make sure
that it passes the lean test.
You gotta look at it head on,
make sure that it's...
Symmetrical.
Then you lean to the right.
Nah, I'm not doing it.
Sam.
Then you gotta lean
to the right.
To the left,
and then center.
And if it checks
all the boxes...
If it checks all the boxes
you've found the one.
You know you've found
the one.
We'll take it.
Thanks.
Unless someone snatches it out
from underneath you.
Um, there's a lot more
trees here.
We'll... we'll find another one.
Yeah, but not like that one.
Well, think of it
as a teachable moment.
The next time you find the one,
you won't drag your feet.
I drag my feet?
You know, I saw some
Fraser firs up front.
Let's go check those out.
Yeah, why don't we go hit
that holly table?
Come on, let's go.
Nice to see you guys.
-You too.
-Great idea.
Enjoy your tree.
Hope you find the one.
Oh, hey.
♪ O Christmas tree,
O Christmas tree... ♪
Come here.
You know I was so sure
that this would go faster
with four people.
Everything we put up,
Rudolph bats down.
Zachary?
Oh, I'm just ignoring it.
Let's focus on this.
Yeah, but what if
it's a home
for one of these
tinsel bandits?
It's true.
Oh.
The church choir
has practice tonight
and Zachary is wondering
if I could help him
pass out flyers when they leave,
but that's no...
Ah, well we're basically
wrapped up here,
so there's nothing
stopping you.
Oh. Uh, well... I should
probably help.
-Yeah.
-Yeah.
-I'm just going to go.
-Have fun.
You picked those up in Miami?
What?
I thought they would be,
you know, good to hand out
fliers to.
Or get a healthy case
of frostbite.
Here.
Give me your hands.
I'm fine, it's good.
Give me your hands.
See?
Oh, you're right.
That is warmer.
Yeah.
Oh, goodness!
You startled me.
We weren't ambushing you.
No, we were just waiting
for you to be done.
Can I give you one of
these flyers?
Yeah, depends what it's for.
Did you two put on the cat café
the other night?
Yeah, that was us.
Oh, I meant to come to that.
You are in luck,
because we still have three
kittens to be adopted.
Oh, really?
So, if you know anyone.
You know what?
You're looking at her.
Yeah. I'll make it easy on you.
I'll take all three.
-All right.
-Wow!
Yeah, love me some kittens.
I'll call you.
-Okay.
-Oh, uh...
Okay, have a good night.
Thanks, you too.
Wow. That was a... a lot faster
than I anticipated.
Yeah.
I guess we're done.
We can go home.
Well, you've got your home,
and...
I got mine.
Yeah.
Come here.
Come here.
There you go.
Come here Vix.
So, this choir lady.
She checks out?
Well, she founded
a cat rescue
so it's hard to find
a reason to say no.
All right you guys, eat.
So. if there's no more
adoptions,
does that mean
no more Zachary?
Well, yeah, it's pretty much
just the home visits
and that's a one-person job,
so...
Okay.
I think we could probably
take that down.
Well, it sounds like you
two talked, right?
I mean, he sent a text.
I'm not sure if that was about
business or us,
but I said I'd talk to him
when I got to Miami.
I just want to focus on
my family, on you guys.
Well, you can't argue
with that.
I don't think he understands how
important this time is to me.
Okay, I got you.
We're going to hit some
snow here,
so about four steps
in the snow.
-Okay.
-Slippery, careful.
Go slow!
Alright.
Okay, keep going.
I'll bet it's a fire badge
framed and mounted.
Don't ruin it, Sam.
Helmet framed and mounted?
Okay, now.
Surprise!
Wait, wait... That rusty
old truck I bought?
How'd you do this
without me knowing?
Ask Gabi.
She led the charge.
It was a group effort.
Whatever you all did,
it's a work of art.
The best going away
gift I could even imagine.
I don't know what to say.
So don't say anything,
just drive.
Well, looks like you guys
hit the jackpot.
Yeah. Cat lady.
My kind of person.
Well, down to the wire now.
Sam and Harriet have finished
kitten proofing
so after we do the drop off
we'll be done.
Yeah. Phew.
What are you going to do
with all your free time?
Oh no!
I didn't have a chance
to call you.
The rescue just got a litter
of four-week-olds.
I have to play mama.
Oh, they haven't been weaned?
They need someone
who's bottle fed before
and I'm the only one.
Oh.
So, you can't take
our kittens?
I'm afraid not.
-Oh, that's...
-Oh.
So disappointing.
I hope I haven't ruined
your Christmas.
Oh no.
-No.
-No, no.
We'll take care of it.
Yeah.
-Have a good night.
-You too.
Well, I guess, we're back
to square one.
Yeah.
So, you want to...
Yeah.
Well, we've exhausted
the firehouse.
We've already hit up anyone
who ever sent me a kitten meme.
We've gone through
the bookstore, cafe crowd.
And the present wrappers.
I don't know how we're going
to get the last three adopted
short of a giant billboard sign
with their cute
little faces on it.
Can't we put it in the window?
That's the cat's window.
Their special spot where
they'll watch the world go by.
You realize we sound like
cat people, right?
And now it's official.
Gabi, they're here.
We're going to trim their tree.
It's a family tradition.
Oh, good.
Well, trim away.
As soon as I get the adoption
papers signed
I'll be out of your hair.
Uh, you're invited too.
Well, that's sweet of Harriet.
It was my idea.
Hello!
Oh, my gosh!
Come here.
Look at them!
Welcome to the family.
Oh, you little...
Look at this.
Um, hey, it's a big tree
so we need a plan.
Well, um...
I can take the top.
I'll do the bottom.
Okay. And uh... Okay, you
and Marilee do the middle.
But then what will you do,
Sam?
Oh.
Well, someone has to babysit.
♪ We wish you a
Merry Christmas ♪
♪ We wish you a
Merry Christmas ♪
♪ We wish you a
Merry Christmas ♪
♪ And a Happy New Year ♪
♪ Glad tidings we bring
to you and your kin ♪
♪ We wish you a
Merry Christmas ♪
♪ And a Happy New Year ♪
-Ah.
-Ah.
Another thing I'll miss
at the firehouse.
Your Christmas brew.
I'll drop some off
each November,
keep my legacy alive
at the Christmas party.
Or, maybe I can just keep
the legacy alive.
I'm going to take the job.
I want to be chief.
It's not about her.
It's about me and you
in a lot of ways.
You helped me become someone
who can do this job.
Who wants to do this job.
Can we tell the others?
Soon.
There's some stuff I gotta
take care of first.
Anything I can help with?
Yeah actually. Thanks.
Five, four, three, two, one.
Yeah!
Merry Christmas!
Oh, where are the kitties?
Oh, um, over here.
Merry Christmas.
It will be, once we find homes
for these last three kittens.
Do you think that maybe
we should have
like a brainstorming session
tomorrow morning?
Tonight would be better.
Maybe in a few hours?
Yeah, th... the cafe's
probably open.
Uh, let's meet up
at the firehouse.
Firehouse it is.
Firehouse?
What's at the firehouse?
Yeah, I don't know.
He seemed kinda cagey about it.
Hmm? Probably flashed you
that cute little smile of his
too, didn't he?
Are you implying that there's
more to this pet adoption
than pet adoption?
No.
Have fun.
Okay.
Zachary?
What is all this?
Sam's retirement gift.
Which doubles as a billboard.
You did all of this just now?
Yeah. There's a place
that does it in an hour.
I thought I could park it in
front of the benefit tomorrow.
You know, the more eyes
the merrier.
I'm so sorry.
I just, I... I...
And here I thought you would
have nothing to do.
Oh. Oh, hi Duchess.
I have it together,
right Duchess?
I mean, I got into vet school.
I started my own practice.
So, what kind of a person flies
halfway across the country
and kisses her ex-boyfriend
after five years?
The one she's been trying
to get over.
Ugh.
Do you approve?
Or do you think I should
sleep on it.
To be clear, she kissed me
and then walked away, so.
If you know what that is about,
I'm all ears.
You just want to be scratched
between the ears.
That's all right.
So, I was thinking that I would
wear the green one,
but then I was like
no, I should give you
first dibs, so?
Thanks Duchess.
I'm glad someone could give me
some feedback,
even if it does come
with cat fur.
Hmm?
Tonight? The Christmas benefit?
Oh right. Yeah uh,
uh, blue.
You're not coming,
are you?
Ah. Yeah, I don't know.
Kinda gave Zach some mixed
signals last night so.
You're just trying to get
kittens adopted.
There's no mixed
signals there.
Actually, I kissed him.
Oh!
Well...
Just like, right on the mouth.
Just...
That is pretty straightforward.
What is wrong with me?
I thought I had put Zachary
behind me
but every time that I'm with him
it's just...
It's all still there?
Yeah.
Hey, ease up on yourself,
and Zachary.
People change.
People change their minds.
But just do me one favor.
Hmm.
Don't let this muddy things.
If you have any inclination
toward moving back here
just make sure it's
for your own reasons.
Ha!
Now, it's all making
sense to me
why you wanted
to borrow my rig.
Yeah, well, when you have a ride
like this people look.
Thought I'd park it outside
the party tonight,
see if we can't get these
last three adopted.
What did Marilee think?
Hard to tell.
She uh, kissed me
and walked away.
The first part sounded good.
I think she doesn't want what
happened before to happen again.
Will it?
Well, I'm a different
person now.
But she doesn't seem to see
that for some reason.
Let me ask you,
this different person
you were,
did he make a mistake
the first time around?
Biggest mistake of my life.
Did you ever tell her that?
Not in those exact words.
Or any words.
Zachary, I've been married
for 30 years.
Happily.
I wouldn't be either
of those things
if I never copped
to my mistakes.
It's so weird seeing you
all dressed up.
Oh. Ditto.
You look great.
What's up?
Dad's making a speech
in three minutes
and he hasn't said
who's taking his place.
I'm freaking out.
You can't freak out
for three more minutes?
Mentors don't come along
every day.
They also don't
just walk away.
So, does that mean you'll...
I mean, I'll be in your corner
no matter what my title is.
-Okay, you promise?
-I promise.
All right.
Um, I can hold down the fort
if you want.
Thank you.
I wasn't sure you would
be coming.
You look beautiful.
Thank you.
I wasn't sure either but um,
and you look...
Handsome.
Thanks.
Shall we?
Welcome everyone.
I want to thank you
for taking time out
to support Children's Hospital.
We have these fundraisers
every year,
but this year,
this one's special
because we have raised enough
money to build the game room.
Yeah!
And because...
It's my last.
Aww.
Yeah.
Yeah, some of you knew
that I was retiring
and then those of you that
didn't, well now you do.
But hey let's not look at
tonight as a goodbye.
Instead let's, let's call it
a hello
to someone that you already
know and love.
Jamestown's incoming
fire chief,
Zachary Stone.
Come on up, Zach.
Come on.
Do you think you could
recreate this?
It's called a caramel
brie tartlet.
-Mm.
-Right?
Mm-hmm.
Yeah, you're lucky I got you
one. They're almost out.
Kyle, you can't recreate a
recipe after just one taste.
I'm going to need
at least three more.
Go!
Okay, all right.
Three it is.
♪ ...Jingle Bells,
jingle all the way... ♪
Excuse me, Jaclyn?
I know you weren't expecting me.
I'm Miles.
Miles?
Welcome to Oregon.
So, what made you change
your mind?
A question.
"What if things could be better
than good?"
I was not expecting that.
It was my fault you moved
to Miami.
No. Zach, you don't have to.
I do.
You told me what you needed
and I froze.
I was so afraid of losing
what we had
that I let you slip away.
I've learned from my mistakes
and so, I guess, what I'm asking
is if you...
Hi, uh...
You need to come with me.
Right now.
Is everything okay?
Sorry. Sorry.
What is it? What?
It's Miles.
What's he doing here?
Best case scenario he's here
to talk business.
Worst case scenario...
It's a grand gesture.
Hey.
Are you double-fisting
Shirley Temples?
Nah. One is chocolate milk.
How are you going to sleep
with all that sugar?
I'm in training.
For?
Staying up late tonight
so I can stay up
later tomorrow.
Oh right. Christmas Eve.
Staying up for Santa.
Smart.
See, you get it.
I know you're upset from me
cancelling the trip.
But we can't just walk away from
everything that we've built.
It's just... I don't think
we have to.
I don't understand.
I want to help you keep
the clinic thriving, Miles.
I just...
I just won't be working there.
Well, what are you
talking about?
What about us?
I can't.
Look, I can hire a new vet
to take over the nights,
the weekends.
Come and sit down.
Do you think someone
will adopt
Donner, Blitzen,
and Rudolph?
Let's just say, uh,
there's been some interest.
He's here? I thought
he wasn't coming.
You know that guy?
Only from their Christmas card.
I know that I've been
prioritizing all of the wrong...
No, no.
Don't apologize
for who you are.
Your ambition is
what drew me to you.
I love that about you.
I just want to be home...
with my friends and my family.
I belong here.
And you belong in Miami.
You do, you love it there.
I'm so sorry.
I'm so sorry.
-Hey.
-Hi.
Um, have you seen Zachary?
Did you, uh, ever tell Sierra
that you and Miles broke up?
What? Why?
What do you mean?
Okay.
Oh, boy.
Ugh. He's not answering.
Well, you could go by his house.
He's not going to come
to the door.
What about a cat door?
Really? You're going
to joke right now?
Me climbing through a cat door.
Not funny.
What are the chances
after all of these years
we're back in the exact
same spot.
Why wouldn't he just ask me
about Miles?
I think all of these years
might be the problem.
That's the thing Jaclyn.
When I'm with him it feels like
no time has passed.
But it did.
You moved on, right?
And whether it worked
out or not,
Zachary needs to come to terms
with that.
You want to know how
my night went?
First, it was magical.
Incredible.
And then it ended on
a really bad note.
Seems to be the running
theme for me.
Sort of a cycle I just
can't break.
You understand.
What?
What are you doing?
Fine. I'll try him one
more time.
But if this goes wrong,
I'm firing you
as my life coach.
Ambrose.
You're lucky you're not
a silly human.
I need some of your
cat wisdom.
Humans are supposed to be
the smartest.
The best memory,
the most foresight.
So, why when things don't work
out between us
do we not just accept it?
We convince ourselves
that somehow magically
it's going to be different
the next time.
What?
Oh, you would have
run off too.
She had a boyfriend
I... I'm assuming.
Why didn't she tell me?
She doesn't owe me that?
Well, I guess I'm the one who
didn't say anything to stop her
when she went to Miami.
You're very wise, Ambrose.
Unlike me.
A silly human.
Oh.
No, I can't answer that yet.
No, I can't.
I'm too embarrassed.
Ambrose, no, stop.
Ambrose!
Did you just bat me?
Ambrose!
Hello?
Zachary, is that you?
Zachary? Are you there?
If you're listening,
just don't hang up.
That guy that you saw me
with was my boyfriend
but I broke up with him.
For a lot of reasons,
but mostly because,
well, he wasn't you.
So, whatever went wrong
between us,
I just, I want you to know
that you set a really high bar.
Okay?
I'm sorry.
Bye.
Thank you.
Now, that brunch is over we have
a family tradition to keep up.
So, each year on Christmas Eve
the moms of the family
give a gift to their daughter.
But this year we're mixing
it up.
You're giving the gift.
But I didn't buy anything.
Well, it's a little different
in this case.
It's less of a gift and more of
a promise to give of yourself.
And to give two cats a home.
We're adopting them?
Mm-hmm.
You showed a lot of
responsibility this week.
That's right. Cleaning up,
taking care of them.
Giving Rudolph
his vitamin drops.
And don't worry about Rudolph.
I got five calls about him
this morning.
So, this is real?
These two are really mine?
With cats it's more like
you're theirs.
Hi.
-Hey Sam.
-Hey.
There.
Oh, thanks.
Gingerbread.
Not really a flavored
coffee guy,
but Christmas Eve
I'll make an exception.
I got your text.
What's up?
I was going to ask you
the same thing.
You bolted from the party
last night,
didn't say goodbye.
I had to go home and sort
some things out.
Marilee was looking for you.
Is everything okay?
TBD.
What's that?
Oh!
Where did you come from?
What is that?
Nothing. It's work.
Um, work.
-Hmm.
-Yeah.
-Just work.
-Work.
-On Christmas Eve?
-Yeah.
What are you up to?
Why are you making that face?
What? Just open it.
The rental application
for Doctor Roberts' office.
Miles emailed this morning.
He offered to buy me out.
I still have to fly there
and sign the paperwork
and say goodbye, but...
I just thought that you,
you might want to put things
on hold after last night.
I thought about what you said
about making sure I was
moving here for my reasons.
And you're right.
I have three really big reasons
in this house.
Well, and now two little ones.
And now two little ones.
I'm so excited.
-I love you.
-I love you too.
Should we finish
this advent calendar?
Yes.
Kyle, Sierra.
All hands on deck.
We are opening Christmas Eve.
Ready for this?
Yes.
Okay.
A wreath!
Yeah.
-That is 100 percent mom.
-Yeah.
She used to make wreaths
for everyone.
Friends, family.
They reminded her that love
always comes full circle,
especially at Christmas time.
Yeah. It does.
Come here.
-Oh! Rudolph!
-Rudolph!
Come on Rudolph.
We can't forget you.
Group hug.
What on earth was that?
What is that?
Should we go see?
Merry Christmas.
I don't know.
Is it?
I jumped to conclusions
last night and I was wrong.
I shouldn't have left.
Okay.
You know, these last few days
have reminded me
how I feel when
I'm around you.
Happy.
Really happy.
Challenged.
You set a pretty
high bar yourself.
So, you were listening.
Would you believe me
if I told you that Ambrose
made me answer the phone?
I don't know, would you
believe me
if I told you Duchess
made me call you?
Cats.
Cats.
You want to come with me?
Where?
Quick home visit.
I found someone who wants
to take Rudolph.
Oh? On Christmas Eve?
Yeah.
I know the guy.
Just so you know,
this guy is not the only one
that wants Rudolph.
Actually, it's not just a guy.
It's a couple.
Oh.
Can I have a little more info?
I mean, are they married?
Do they have kids?
Not yet.
Well, have they had
a cat before?
Have they fostered?
Have they...
Wait, uh...
Is this your new house?
Yeah.
What's going on?
Marilee...
I didn't get to finish
last night.
Letting you go to Miami was
the biggest mistake of my life.
I have thought about you
every day since.
I think that's because
we're inseparable.
You know, kind of like
a bonded pair.
Well, I mean, there's some...
-Science behind it.
-Yeah.
Would you adopt Rudolph
with me?
That's full circle.
Oh, and uh,
one more thing.
Marilee White....
Will you marry me?
Oh my, Zach.
I guess that's a yes.
Yes! Yes!
♪ I always love this time
of year ♪
♪ It's even better
now you're here ♪
♪ You say that all the best
things come in twos ♪
♪ It's Christmas with you ♪
Ambrose!
Ambrose!
Ambrose, where are you?
There you are, Ambrose!
Hey buddy.
Okay.
So, the first rule of setting up
the North Pole...
Is make sure Ambrose
isn't underfoot.
Oh, what's gotten into you,
Ambrose?
He's probably just anxious
because Zachary's leaving
on his ski trip tomorrow.
The cat's got a point.
What is it, three Christmases in
a row off skiing with the boys?
It's becoming an annual
tradition.
Kind of like Christmas.
That's my dad's way
of saying
his misses having you
at our house.
He must.
Otherwise he wouldn't be laying
on the guilt like this.
Ahh, if I was doing that
I'd probably mention
that I need volunteers
for tonight.
Volunteers besides my daughter.
So?
You in for tonight?
As long as you respect
my boundaries.
I'm not wearing it, Sam.
He is so wearing it.
Okay, well...
those omega-3s are going to do
his arthritis wonders.
Have we gone over
the holiday pet hazards?
The dangers of Christmas
leftovers.
I don't mean to be
a broken record,
I just don't want any
emergencies while I'm away.
Well, you won't get any
from us.
Have a wonderful trip.
-Merry Christmas.
-Merry Christmas.
Let's go, Mr. Butters.
There you are, Duchess.
Come here.
-Hey.
-Hey.
Mm, wow. What did I do
to deserve that?
I'm just in a good mood.
Because I'm driving you
to the airport?
Or because I got you
a surprise gift?
Hmm.
Oh, look at that.
That's to entertain you
on your flight over.
And maybe she'll even let you
play with it, Duchess.
Is this because you feel bad
you're not coming with us?
-Today.
-Mm-hmm.
Once I finish this year's books
I'll be on the next flight out
to Oregon.
And I'm going to be
100 percent.
Focused on my family.
Okay, look at the upside,
all right?
You'll have time for Duchess
to meet everyone
and you'll have time to catch up
before I get there.
What, you haven't been home
for Christmas in like...
Five years.
And look at what
you've accomplished.
You finished residency,
opened up a new practice.
Co-opened.
And who's the chew toy
on top?
You met me.
That's right.
Okay, what's wrong?
Just promise me
you'll be there.
I'll be there, all right?
With bells on, right, Duchess?
Oh, hey. Glad I caught you.
Found this in the bottom
of my closet.
It's for the event tonight.
It says one size fits all
but they can sometimes run
a little small.
Good news is that's not big
enough to fit a Santa outfit.
Yeah, but the bad news is
there's only one other thing
that it can be.
Sam, we talked about this.
How did you come up
with her name?
Duchess?
Well, when I adopted her
I wanted her to have a name
like Queenie
but one that was sort of clear
that she was her own cat.
I miss Queenie.
Oh, I know.
We all do.
Queenie was one of a kind.
An alpha-cat who ruled
my heart.
Duchess is less of a ruler
and more of a listener.
But still royal.
Yeah.
What's this?
Oh, my hand Santa.
Okay. I am seeing some thematic
links with your hand turkey.
You'll have to excuse
our lack of tree.
Mom was waiting on you
to pick one out.
She was?
I've been waiting for you
to do a couple things...
like open this.
What is this?
I found it when I was cleaning
out the lake house.
Mom must have left it.
Thought we could
open it together.
Hmm...
"To Marilee and Jaclyn.
Love Mom. Merry Christmas."
This must be 20 years old.
I know.
I don't know how we missed it.
You missed a present?
Well, the year our parents
passed away
we missed a lot of things.
Do you want to do the honors,
open it for us?
Oh, wow.
It's an advent calendar.
Look at this.
She must have
made this herself.
What do you think's inside?
Petrified chocolate.
Mummified candy cane?
By now.
Hey, you want to open December
18th and break the tie?
What about all the days
before that?
We have to wait
till next year?
She's so smart.
She knows what I'm going to say
before I say it.
Okay, go ahead.
A charm!
It's a sleigh bell.
I'm trying to think of where
I remember these from.
Oh. Mom used to sew them
to Tabby's collar.
He did not like that.
The squirrels did.
Yeah.
So, what made Miles delay
his trip?
Accounting deadline.
Always seems to come up
when we're trying to go away.
But other than that,
things are going well?
Yeah.
We added two new exam rooms,
a receptionist.
What? Oh, personally.
-Yeah.
-Okay.
It's good.
It's great.
Miles is the only person
I've ever dated
who's, you know, more ambitious
than me.
Oh? Tell me more.
Well, I think, we're at
kind of a crossroads.
A good crossroads.
The whole time we've ever dated
we've always been under stress.
But now that that's easing up
you must be getting to see
his non-work side.
Yeah. When he gets here
I'll get to see it for
a whole week, you know?
Is he good with kids,
can he make a mean cocoa.
Ooh, cocoa!
Well, with Sarah around
you'll get the answers
to both those questions
pretty fast.
I thought photos with Santa
were at the Town Green.
Oh they, they were, but they
moved them last year
when the firefighters
took over.
But don't worry,
Zachary takes a ski trip
this time each year.
Yeah, I wasn't...
I remember Zachary,
with the orange cat.
That is a really good memory.
You were what, three?
I don't know, was I?
Come on.
Follow mom, come on.
So, was Zachary your boyfriend?
Well, when I lived here, yeah.
And then when I moved to Miami
he wasn't anymore.
Why?
Sierra, auntie might not want
to get into it right now.
You know, I can stay here
with Sierra
if you guys want to take off.
No, no, no, no, no.
Listen, I came here
to take Santa photos
and that is what I'm going
to do, okay?
-Oh!
-Ohh!!
-Marilee!
-Zachary, um...
What, what are you
doing here?
I'm visiting family.
Sorry.
You look great.
Thank you.
You look festive.
Sam's idea.
-Let me take that.
-Alright.
Uh, Zachary, sorry,
you remember everyone.
Hi everybody.
We were just talking
about you.
Oh!
Look, I think Santa's ready
for you.
Let's go see your friends,
okay?
Come on, Marilee.
You don't want to miss this.
Yeah, I'll catch right up.
She's cute.
We weren't actually talking
about you.
We were talking about Ambrose.
How is he by the way?
He's good.
Still going strong, yeah.
And Queenie?
Oh. I'm, I'm so sorry, I...
That's okay.
I, I didn't mean to...
No, it happened four and a half
years ago and I'm still...
I had her for 18 years and
I'm... I'm lucky for that, so.
And right after you moved
to Miami?
Yeah.
That couldn't have been easy.
No. But things picked up
after that.
I finished my residency
and I got my own clinic.
I share it with...
I knew it. I knew it.
Remember, I told you
that you'd be running
your own show one day.
You did.
And what are you doing?
-Still here at the fire station.
-Mm-hmm.
Yeah, I made captain
about four years ago.
Wow!
Yeah.
-Congratulations.
-Thanks.
It's not that much different
than being an engineer,
but the schedule's better
and I'm traveling more.
Headed up to Mount Hood
tomorrow so.
Well, won't Sam miss you
at his house?
Ah, I needed to start mixing
things up at Christmas.
Um, just... You have
a little...
-Oh.
-Sorry.
Oh, oh...
Thank you, thank you.
Yeah.
Blocking your, your eyes.
Don't want to be out of
the elf code.
Yeah.
Dress code, we have a certain
dress code, so.
Well, um... Merry Christmas.
Merry Christmas.
Let's take some Santa photos.
Yay, there she is.
Marilee?
I thought that was you.
Sam! Harriet!
Oh, my goodness!
Gabi, have you graduated
from college?
Yeah, I graduated last year.
Yeah. She's actually Sam's
newest rookie.
Oh, wow.
I am impressed.
Wow.
Oh, and I am very needed
at the Santa photo booth.
It was so good
to see you guys.
Same here.
It's been too long. Bye.
So, I like B.
Sierra likes D
and Kyle likes C.
Mmkay. Well, all of those
letters that you heard,
we'll take one of each.
One way to solve it.
-So.
-Mm-hmm.
What is new in
Zachary's world?
Um, well he got
a promotion.
Well, that's good.
And a elf suit.
So, basically things are...
Yeah, the same.
He seemed good, though.
-Good.
-Yeah.
Anyone free on Saturday
to help a good cause?
Well, it depends.
What's the event?
Our annual benefit for
Children's Hospital.
Except this year we're building
a game room.
Oh. Worthy cause.
She will take any excuse
to get dressed up.
This is true.
Well, we'll have a band,
local chefs, kids' activities.
Okay. Well, you had me
at chefs,
so I will go ahead
and take four.
Don't you mean five?
One for Miles.
Yeah, right. Miles.
Um, I guess he will be here
in time, so five it is.
I know you want to come, buddy.
But staying at the firehouse
is a win-win.
You get spoiled rotten
and I get some R&R.
Just after I take care
of this.
Oh, my gosh.
Hello, hello.
How many of you are
in there?
Okay.
Oh, you're just in time.
We overcommit again?
You can never overcommit
to charity, Sam.
These are for the hospital,
these are for the gift-wrapping
event,
and the rest is for
the Redmond Food Bank.
You don't mind the drive?
Well, it's your day off.
I figured I'd whisk you away and
get you to myself for a while.
Nice to have some,
you know, distance.
Distance, from what?
Don't worry. They know
it's my day off.
I have two captains
covering for me.
It's Zachary.
He needs me to swing by,
apparently. It's...
Urgent.
All right Sierra.
Advent calendar and breakfast,
one minute warning.
Two-minute warning!
I don't think Sierra
was expecting
a new best friend
for Christmas.
I don't think Duchess was
expecting a personal trainer.
Oh, she loves the attention.
I have so little left
in the tank
by the time I get home
from work.
This is nice for her.
I don't know how you have
much time left for Miles.
How do you two do it?
Oh, we sneak in a dinner here
and a lunch date there.
Mostly we just flirt in the
hallways between check-ups.
Well, must be working.
You two look smitten.
Yeah.
Calendar... ready.
Okay.
Number 19.
What do we have today?
A present.
Oh.
I can see why Grandma
put that in there.
She was always the best
present giver.
Mm-hmm.
Birthdays, holidays...
And Christmas Eve.
Duchess!
Oh, breakfast? Sierra...
Oh.
She loves that cat.
Hey. Speaking of
the Christmas Eve gift,
I haven't quite nailed down
what I'm getting Sierra yet.
You didn't finish all of your
Christmas shopping, did you?
Is Christmas shopping
ever done?
Eh, not really.
Okay.
Uh-oh.
There are only seven kittens
here but we started with nine.
Did you count the orange
one twice?
There are two orange ones.
Maybe three?
Where'd they go?
What are we going to do?
Um, just breathe.
Take it a step at a time.
First we gotta figure out
how old they are,
are they healthy, weaned?
That's a good idea.
Ambrose's vet is
just down the street,
maybe... maybe he can
fit 'em in.
Oh, good catch!
Uh, Zachary?
Oh. Thank goodness.
-Here.
-Oh, oh!
You're going to need
a bigger box.
Yeah.
Oh!
Oh, guys.
What are you saying?
That you don't want to go
to the benefit
or that you're not coming here
at all?
It's not me making
this decision, it's...
It's the new on-call vet.
The record system's
crashed twice.
Yeah, but it crashes on us
all the time.
I mean, he'll figure it out.
And what if he doesn't?
I'm not like you, I can't
just turn the work switch off.
Even for my family?
Look, I knew you'd be upset
so I have a solution.
President's Day.
We fly out to Oregon
Friday night,
take the long weekend...
President's Day
is not Christmas.
Okay.
I'm sensing that this is
a deal-breaker
so just forget
I said anything
and I'll fly out tomorrow
for the benefit party.
No. No, I don't want that.
I don't, I don't want
a concession.
I want you to want
to be here,
to want to spend time
with my family.
And I'm tired of...
...I don't know.
What are you saying?
Miles, I missed my
High School Reunion.
We had to prep for
our grand opening.
And the trip,
the cruise that we had planned
with your family,
we had to cancel that.
My family knows we're running
a business.
Yeah.
For the last two years,
Miles, all we have done
is just go, go, go, go, go.
It's always one thing
after the other.
I just, I...
I don't know. I...
What are we doing?
What are you saying?
That's it? That's all he had
to say?
Well, yeah...
I figured he would've fought
for me a little harder.
I don't know him that well,
I only know him through
video chats.
But I do know you and I know
when something's wrong.
And it may not feel like
this now
but I think you did
the right thing.
Yeah, at the wrong time.
I don't want to ruin Christmas
with my moping.
Hey, you spent two years
with Miles.
You are allowed to mope.
And besides it's more than
just a breakup.
I mean, you share a business.
I don't even want to think about
that right now.
No need.
You don't have to solve
everything in a day.
Uh...
Hi.
I figured you would've been
skiing by now.
Ah, well, these guys
thought differently.
Oh.
My goodness,
look at this face.
Yeah.
What is this?
Somebody left them at the fire
station this morning.
I'm taking them over
to Doctor Roberts
to get them checked out.
-What?
-Doctor Roberts?
I hate to break it to you
but he retired last month.
He sent that email.
Right. I read the email.
But I thought that was next
year he was retiring.
Okay, hi.
I'm a vet!
You're a vet.
Oh, my gosh. Let's get these
checked out.
Well, I think by their teeth
and their paws
that they're about
10 weeks old.
Healthy like the others?
I'm assuming that they need
their shots
but I can get
those overnighted.
Well, then I just need like a,
like a big pen?
You know, with like a,
like a roof?
I guess I have heard of such
things, they're called houses.
I just... I'm not sure how
they'll do in my house.
I just bought it and I'm
renovating the kitchen so.
Oh. Well, uh,
what if we...
and, I mean, I don't want
to speak for you here,
but could keep them here.
No.
It's a very kind offer
but you have a whole family.
Who can help.
Trust me, this will make
Sierra's year.
Well, I wouldn't want
to be stepping
on your Christmas plans.
Oh well, when paws
are this cute
they can step all over
our plans.
Mm-hmm.
All right.
Well, it would give me more time
to help find them homes.
Oh. Well, you don't have to do
that by yourself.
Oh, no, no.
I found them so I should be
the one to find them homes.
Yeah, but what about
your ski trip?
I think we all agree that
that's indefinitely postponed.
So, you don't want
my help then?
Well, I wouldn't say no
if it was offered.
Great!
Then I guess you're
working together.
Okay. Well, I will let you two
sort this out.
Okay. Got nine kittens.
Okay, Well, here we go.
Oh!
Look this way guys! Hi!
Zachary.
Zach, I can't get the photo
if you're blocking the shot.
I know, but I gotta place them
just right
for the adoption flyer.
♪ ...See the lights
in the dark. ♪
♪ I'ma put on my
favorite sweater. ♪
♪ The sun is shining
in the snow ♪
♪ Be the star on the show ♪
♪ Warm me up in
the winter weather ♪
♪ 'Cause you know
it's that time of year ♪
♪ When we both
got to be together ♪
♪ Underneath the mistletoe ♪
♪ It's Christmas time ♪
♪ It's Christmas time... ♪
Shopping for anyone
in particular, ma'am?
My caroling group
Secret Santa.
Aww.
Here, I thought you might be
upgrading my stocking.
The one you've had
for the past 20 years?
Please, Sam.
Some traditions are sacred.
Yeah? What about the one
that I get a kiss every day.
Hmm, when did that start?
Today.
Where is all this confidence
coming from?
From a man who's about to spend
a lot more time with his wife.
Fire chiefs can't go
part-time, Sam.
Maybe it's time I stopped
being fire chief.
You mean retire?
You can't imagine how happy
this makes me.
So, when will you make
it official?
I'm giving the speech
at the benefit on Saturday.
It's as good a time as any.
But there's someone I need
to talk to first.
Hi Sam.
Hi Harriet.
-Hey.
-Hi.
Marilee.
Don't tell me you wrangled her
into Operation Kitten Rescue.
Well, uh... I needed a vet.
And I'm a vet.
Oh. We just did a photoshoot
with these guys.
You gotta see this.
Come on.
Who could say no
to those faces?
You didn't say they were
that cute.
Well, come on,
everyone looks cute
sitting in a wicker basket.
That's actually not true,
but...
Wait, wait. You, you want
to adopt a kitten?
Or you know. Two.
It's been a while since
we've had a cat in the house.
Can you guys give us a few days
to kitten proof?
Yeah, of course.
Now, can I get a kiss?
Hi, mom, I'm home.
Okay, I think we have it
all set. Call her.
Okay.
Hey Sierra, come here
for a sec.
What?
We just want to show
you something.
Surprise!
So, you only get to keep them
for a few days?
Mm-hmm. Until we find them
a forever home.
Why can't it be here?
They're happy with Duchess.
Well, because they're going to
need an owner to buy them food
and keep them warm
and take them to the vet.
And the best Christmas present
we can give little white paws
here is a forever home.
His name's Dasher.
Oh, you've already named them.
Dasher, Dancer,
Prancer, Vixen,
Comet, Cupid,
Donner, Blitzen.
And that one's Rudolph.
Nine, well that's perfect.
And on that note,
I think it's time we talk about
not getting attached, okay?
Sure. As soon as I find
some old socks.
I'm making stockings for them.
Too late.
What do you think?
"My name's Prancer,
"I'm eight inches tall
but I tell people I'm nine.
"Seeking a human that enjoys
"shelving and salmon jerky
as much as I do."
Uh-huh.
"BTW I have six more siblings
in case you know anyone."
That's cute.
Well...
We have a winner.
Winner? You made one?
Yes, and you'll never ever
see it.
Show it to me.
No.
-Come on!
-No.
-Yes.
-No.
There might be something
we can use in there.
Just let me see.
Or not.
Looks like a mugshot.
Wow. Like the cat went
to the DMV.
"Ten-week-old kittens,
fully housebroken."
We might want to put a question
mark on that.
"Prefer to be adopted
in pairs."
Okay.
Can you tell I made that up?
Well, you know what,
there's actually a little bit
of science to that.
Kittens often latch onto
a littermate.
They call it the "bonded pair."
Oh, so it works.
Yeah.
Lines down Oak and Pickford.
Be right there.
Charity present wrapping,
bring a couple kittens,
up the cute factor.
Right.
Won't you be busy
wrapping presents?
Ah. You'd be surprised
how much I've changed
since we last saw each other.
I can now wrap presents
and get kittens adopted
at the same time.
See you later?
It's a date.
Uh, a meet-up.
Join up. Live...
I'll see you there.
Rendezvous.
-See you later.
-Okay.
Be safe.
Hey.
I heard about the downed power
lines on the radio.
I wasn't sure you'd make it.
Yeah.
We cleared it up
pretty quickly.
Oh.
Does this mean that you've
forgiven me for the elf suit?
They're for your wife.
You know, I may bust
your chops
but I get why you leave town
during the holidays.
The most wonderful time
of the year?
Not really so wonderful
when you're riding solo.
You're not solo,
you're family.
You're right.
Gotta remind myself
how lucky I am.
Or you could just
remind yourself
to show up for
the tree trimming.
People keep up traditions
for a reason, you know.
Life can change
at any moment.
You gotta hang on to
the good times.
You say that like
something's changing.
It's time for Harriet and I
to start our next chapter.
And to do that I need to leave
the firehouse.
You're retiring?
I liked how I said it better.
I don't know what I'm thinking.
Uh, congratulations.
That's a... that's a big step
for you two.
I just um... I can't imagine
going to work without you.
Hey. You're not getting rid
of me that easily.
Like I said, we're family.
Yeah.
Ah. Look at that fold.
Almost perfect.
Easy, Captain.
I might be a rookie
but I am in charge of
the assignments on Saturday.
Translation, be nice to her
or she'll give you valet duty.
Funny, that's what I signed you
up for.
Wait, the benefit Saturday?
Who said I was attending?
You cancelled your ski trip.
You have no excuse not to.
Except that I have nine kittens
to find homes for.
We heard you were down
to seven.
Zachary, Zach...
Yeah.
You have to go, okay?
Dad's making his
big announcement.
That soon?
Oh. It's going to make it hard
to figure out a gift for him.
I had an idea but maybe I should
run it by the others.
-Oh, let me hear it.
-Okay.
Bring up the website.
Local, sustainable
and they do rush orders.
And I'm going to say no.
What?
No, you haven't even seen
the detail view yet, look.
But it's a bench.
With a... a plaque on it.
You know, we can put it
out front
and we'll call it
"Sam's Bench".
It's a wonderful idea.
I only see one problem.
He's still alive.
You only think that
because of the photo.
I mean, imagine it without
the sympathy flowers.
I can't.
Okay. Back to
the drawing board.
What do we have here?
Bundt cake?
Mom's cranberry
sour cream bundt cake.
Ooh. Maybe you should let me
be the judge of that?
Mmmhmm.
Judge away.
Mmhmm.
Nailed it.
Mmhmm.
-You truly honored her memory.
-Awww.
So, I am still struggling with
Sierra's Christmas Eve gift.
Well, there is a litter
of kittens up for adoption.
Ugh.
Too obvious?
Too ambitious.
Not quite ready for pets yet.
Okay.
So, it's a no on the bench,
no on the golf clubs.
What about a scooter?
Oooh, now you're talking.
The man's been driving a fire
engine for 40 years.
You're really going to downgrade
him to a scooter?
Well, this might sound
ridiculous but he actually has-
You know what?
Never mind.
We don't have enough time.
Come on Gabi,
out with it.
Yeah. There are
no bad ideas,
except for Caleb's scooter.
Okay. But it's kind of something
you have to see.
I know this truck.
Sam bought it at an online
auction a few years back.
He had big plans
to restore it
until he realized that restoring
things isn't his thing.
So, I made it my project.
I was going to surprise him
with it on his birthday.
I got a little derailed
and here we are.
Huh, looks like you made
a solid start.
I did get the tank working.
Do any work on the engine?
Purrs like a kitten.
But that's the extent
of my knowledge.
I've never done body work
let alone on an antique.
It's not exactly
a one-person job.
No. But it might be
a 12-person job. Hey?
I think we can do this.
Uh, any chance we can switch?
This fence weighs like
two pounds.
You don't have to play
the superhero.
No, it's not that.
I just don't want Ambrose
to see me with these two...
...late.
Oh! There he is.
Hi Ambrose.
My squishy little
marshmallow.
It's so good to see you.
It's been so long, my love.
Your purr's gotten so loud.
Like sleeping next
to a motocross rally.
Yeah. It means you're happy.
Ambrose?
Any chance you want to say
hi to these two little...
Oh, oh!
Oh, Ambrose. You don't have
to be scared.
For the record,
he's not scared.
He just doesn't like
new things.
Let me help you there.
Oh yeah, doesn't like
new things, huh?
I wonder where he got
that from.
So, once you claim one of these
guys we take care of the rest.
We do everything right away.
Home inspection,
spay and neuter contract.
And if everything checks out,
kitten delivery.
-Oh, excuse me for a sec.
-Yeah.
So, has the eagle landed?
I'm sorry, I don't speak
old movie.
Did you get the fire truck
into the truck bay?
Oh, yeah.
And Becca's wife is going to
loan us
her paint guns and sanders.
Great.
Now, all we have to do
is cross our fingers
that we can get it done
in time.
♪...Jingle Bells,
jingle bells... ♪
Can I wrap that for you?
On second thought,
that's all you, Zach.
-Oh! Can I help you?
-Thank you.
Well, if you were going
for a family resemblance
I think you found your cat.
I'll just... I'll leave.
Any luck over there?
Yeah, yeah.
Ninety percent sure I found
a family for Vixen
and, I think, Mason over there
is going to take Prancer.
Hope so.
He was really talking
your ear off.
Yeah. Well, you know, helping
him out, I am a vet.
Oh. I'm sure that's why.
Mm-hmm.
Well, I can see why you use
gift bags at Christmas.
Yeah, convenience.
Right.
What? You think you can
outdo me?
Oh, I... I think I know
I can outdo you.
Let's see it.
Okay.
All right. Here's where
you fell off the sleigh.
It's the triangle fold.
-Triangle fold.
-Yeah.
-You get one fold like that.
-Mm-hmm.
Nice and flat. Another fold
and tuck it over.
Triangle fold.
Voila.
I mean, I could do that
if I wanted to.
-Okay.
-Yeah.
I'll just...
-You can...
-No, you can.
-You have the tape.
-Okay.
It's fine. I'll let you do
the triangle.
...Triangle fold.
Thing. So, just...
Ooh, peppermint.
I must be on your nice list.
You got four kittens adopted
in a day.
You're on everyone's
nice list.
Well, I didn't do it alone.
And how is Zachary?
He's fun.
He was always fun.
Why did you break up
with him again?
I don't know.
It'd been two years
and I wanted more,
and he felt like things
were good
just the way that
they were so-
So, when you'd bring up
the future...
He would say "why mess
with a good thing."
So, he struggles with change.
It's not too uncommon.
I guess, I struggle with waiting
for people to change, so.
Yeah, but you took
the internship in Miami.
Good for you.
I know.
I just thought it would be
a wakeup call, instead it was...
An ending.
And now?
And now I'm...
A grown woman
who knows he didn't step up
when he had the chance and...
I don't know, no matter what
chemistry we have,
I've gotta move on.
Just remember that just because
someone doesn't like change
doesn't mean that they're
not capable of it.
No. This is my breakfast,
not yours.
Yes, I did sleep in
these clothes.
But you know how comfy
the lounger is.
Can you blame me?
Enough of the dramatics,
Ambrose.
You're just smelling
the kittens
and maybe a little bit
of Marilee.
We were wrapping presents.
Don't get your hopes up, okay?
She made her mind up about me
a long time ago.
So, we're just going to get
the kittens adopted,
then we'll be done,
and you and I will have
a nice Christmas.
I guess I'll buy coffee.
The whole firehouse knows?
News travels fast.
I guess, I'd better make
an announcement soon.
I planned on doing it
at the benefit but...
What's stopping you?
Well, I can't really quit
unless I name my successor.
Yeah. That's a tough one.
I mean, you really transformed
the whole department.
The mentoring program,
the holiday outreach.
No one can fill your shoes.
How can you be so sure
if you never try them on?
Wait.
You want me to be chief?
I think the question is,
do you want to be?
I feel like there's pictures
of us in that.
I feel like we have pictures
of our grandparents in that.
Yeah, we have deep roots
around here.
That's the beauty of Jamestown.
Imagine spending five years
of your life
just struggling to get a
foothold only to realize
the place you feel most at home
is the one that you left.
Well, if that's true then Miami
wasn't for nothing.
It helped you figure out
what you didn't want.
Now, it's time to figure out
what you do want.
Well, that's easy.
A practice with boundaries.
Getting to know
my clients' names.
Weekends, evenings to myself.
Vacations.
Preferably somewhere closer
to you guys.
Hmm. I'm liking this practice.
Keep talking.
So, the outdoor market's
too crowded,
the ice rink is too dangerous.
Same goes with the snow
play area.
Well, there aren't too many
events that are BYO kittens.
Yeah.
Unless we make our own event.
You're thinking
what I'm thinking?
I don't know.
You thinking cat cafe?
-Okay.
-Yeah.
Well, you think she's going
to let us do it here?
I don't see why not.
You could introduce yourself,
play the vet card,
see if she's game.
Yeah, something tells me
it's going to go over better
if you ask.
Hi.
All right.
Bets in, you guys.
Whoever guesses today's charm
gets an extra pecan bun.
Hmm.
A Santa hat?
Ooh.
Uh, harp.
Angel.
Cheater!
You only said that
'cause I said harp.
Fine, bow. Uh, ribbon.
Okay. Let's see.
Ah, cheater wins.
What is it?
A bow with no gift.
Yes.
What do you think it means?
Hmm... I don't know.
Wait a minute. You know what
these are from?
These are from Mom's
charm bracelet,
the one that she
used to wear.
Right, to church.
When she'd sing
on Christmas Eve.
Yeah, and then she would
take it off
when she was making sugar
cookies and put it by the sink.
And then we would fight over
wearing it.
Yeah.
Oh, it's like getting a little
piece of her back.
Yeah, it is.
Now, I just remembered
something.
It's 1:00. I have to give
Rudolph his vitamin drops.
♪ Ding dong Merrily on high ♪
♪ In heaven the bells
are ringing ♪
♪ Ding dong verily the sky... ♪
-Hey.
-Hey.
Uh, wow. So, we're doing
the cat cafe tonight.
Yeah.
Kate, the owner, said she'd
take care of refreshments.
We just have to bring some
cat supplies and cat toys.
Great.
Yeah, how'd you swing that?
Oh, I may have promised her
that I would bring
a bunch of firemen.
Ah, yes, the old fireman trick.
Works every time.
Hey. This remind you
of anything?
Being back here
in the store.
When we first met?
You scolded me about giving
Ambrose milk
and you called me a hero.
I think, I even gave you
a double hero.
That's right.
And now you're like
a superhero.
Because of the... just...
there are a lot of cats now.
Well, I'm sure you've even been
called that before, so you know.
First time from you though,
which means something.
♪ O Christmas tree,
O Christmas tree ♪
♪ Thy leaves are
so unchanging ♪
Well, no one said we couldn't
draw a crowd.
Yeah.
Firefighters heard about
the food,
the ladies heard about
the firefighters,
one hand washes the other.
There is nothing a woman
likes more
than seeing a man hold a cat,
except for when it's a kitten.
I tell my cat everything.
What I spend on cat food
I save on therapy.
You look like you could use
an eggnog latte.
Oh, running out of cat jokes
out there.
You can always wear one.
Okay. Tell me about this.
You have a cat sweater
but no cat.
Running this cafe is my life
right now.
I hate to think of a cat waiting
for me at home all day.
Well, what if it was like a...
a bookstore cat.
Aren't bookstore cats usually
sleepy, chill, older?
What if I could guarantee you
two out of the three?
Come and take a look
right here.
-Hi sweetie.
-Hi.
-He's pretty chill.
-Very chill.
And sleepy.
-Hi baby.
-Hi.
Thanks again.
Thank you for coming.
Well, Prancer and Vixen
have been claimed.
And Comet is going to the lady
who liked my therapy joke.
Well, she's a therapist
so I doubt that.
And this little sleepyhead
has shown he's going to make
a really good bookstore kitty.
Dasher and Dancer
are going with Sam.
Okay, so that leaves us three.
Uh, speaking of Sam.
He's retiring and he asked me
to be chief.
Wow! Zach, that's amazing.
But what if I don't want
the job?
Why wouldn't you want the job?
You're perfect for it.
You're experienced,
you're qualified, you're...
Good. I'm good.
You know, why sign up for more
drama when I'm good.
Because what if you could be
better than good?
Better than good?
What if it's worse?
Then I'm not good anymore
and that's why "good"
is good enough.
Wow. Been here before.
So, I'm just going to let you
work that one out,
um, while I figure out...
Wait. There's only eight.
There's only eight.
Dasher, Dancer, Prancer,
Vixen, Comet,
Cupid, Donner, Blitzen.
Rudolph.
Rudolph.
-Rudolph!
-Rudolph!
Buddy.
Where did you go?
Come here, buddy.
Come on.
-Rudolph!
-Rudolph!
-Rudolph!
-Rudolph!
Ru-
-Sorry.
-It's okay.
Rudolph.
No.
-You go.
-You.
-You little sneaker.
-You scared us.
You did scare us.
Hi sweetie. I know.
Marilee, when I said, good...
It's fine. It's fine, no.
Well, it's a big day tomorrow
so I should...
♪ Deck the halls
with boughs of holly ♪
♪ Fa, la, la, la, la,
la, la, la, la ♪
You're it!
Tag.
Our go-to whenever Mom and Dad
were taking too long.
Well, we're certainly
carrying on that tradition.
Okay.
You sure you don't like
this one?
I was kind of feeling it.
See this is where you and I
are a good team.
You go off of instinct
where I stick to a very strict
set of criteria.
Here we go.
Because what may seem like
the perfect tree
doesn't mean that it always
passes the test.
What test?
Have I not told you about
the Christmas tree test?
No, you have.
But at the time she was
a little more interested
in her sippy cup.
Okay. Like this one.
First you've got to make sure
that it's fresh.
Inhale deeply, see if
it smells Christmassy.
You know, like the spirit
of Christmas.
Then you gotta make sure
that it passes the lean test.
You gotta look at it head on,
make sure that it's...
Symmetrical.
Then you lean to the right.
Nah, I'm not doing it.
Sam.
Then you gotta lean
to the right.
To the left,
and then center.
And if it checks
all the boxes...
If it checks all the boxes
you've found the one.
You know you've found
the one.
We'll take it.
Thanks.
Unless someone snatches it out
from underneath you.
Um, there's a lot more
trees here.
We'll... we'll find another one.
Yeah, but not like that one.
Well, think of it
as a teachable moment.
The next time you find the one,
you won't drag your feet.
I drag my feet?
You know, I saw some
Fraser firs up front.
Let's go check those out.
Yeah, why don't we go hit
that holly table?
Come on, let's go.
Nice to see you guys.
-You too.
-Great idea.
Enjoy your tree.
Hope you find the one.
Oh, hey.
♪ O Christmas tree,
O Christmas tree... ♪
Come here.
You know I was so sure
that this would go faster
with four people.
Everything we put up,
Rudolph bats down.
Zachary?
Oh, I'm just ignoring it.
Let's focus on this.
Yeah, but what if
it's a home
for one of these
tinsel bandits?
It's true.
Oh.
The church choir
has practice tonight
and Zachary is wondering
if I could help him
pass out flyers when they leave,
but that's no...
Ah, well we're basically
wrapped up here,
so there's nothing
stopping you.
Oh. Uh, well... I should
probably help.
-Yeah.
-Yeah.
-I'm just going to go.
-Have fun.
You picked those up in Miami?
What?
I thought they would be,
you know, good to hand out
fliers to.
Or get a healthy case
of frostbite.
Here.
Give me your hands.
I'm fine, it's good.
Give me your hands.
See?
Oh, you're right.
That is warmer.
Yeah.
Oh, goodness!
You startled me.
We weren't ambushing you.
No, we were just waiting
for you to be done.
Can I give you one of
these flyers?
Yeah, depends what it's for.
Did you two put on the cat café
the other night?
Yeah, that was us.
Oh, I meant to come to that.
You are in luck,
because we still have three
kittens to be adopted.
Oh, really?
So, if you know anyone.
You know what?
You're looking at her.
Yeah. I'll make it easy on you.
I'll take all three.
-All right.
-Wow!
Yeah, love me some kittens.
I'll call you.
-Okay.
-Oh, uh...
Okay, have a good night.
Thanks, you too.
Wow. That was a... a lot faster
than I anticipated.
Yeah.
I guess we're done.
We can go home.
Well, you've got your home,
and...
I got mine.
Yeah.
Come here.
Come here.
There you go.
Come here Vix.
So, this choir lady.
She checks out?
Well, she founded
a cat rescue
so it's hard to find
a reason to say no.
All right you guys, eat.
So. if there's no more
adoptions,
does that mean
no more Zachary?
Well, yeah, it's pretty much
just the home visits
and that's a one-person job,
so...
Okay.
I think we could probably
take that down.
Well, it sounds like you
two talked, right?
I mean, he sent a text.
I'm not sure if that was about
business or us,
but I said I'd talk to him
when I got to Miami.
I just want to focus on
my family, on you guys.
Well, you can't argue
with that.
I don't think he understands how
important this time is to me.
Okay, I got you.
We're going to hit some
snow here,
so about four steps
in the snow.
-Okay.
-Slippery, careful.
Go slow!
Alright.
Okay, keep going.
I'll bet it's a fire badge
framed and mounted.
Don't ruin it, Sam.
Helmet framed and mounted?
Okay, now.
Surprise!
Wait, wait... That rusty
old truck I bought?
How'd you do this
without me knowing?
Ask Gabi.
She led the charge.
It was a group effort.
Whatever you all did,
it's a work of art.
The best going away
gift I could even imagine.
I don't know what to say.
So don't say anything,
just drive.
Well, looks like you guys
hit the jackpot.
Yeah. Cat lady.
My kind of person.
Well, down to the wire now.
Sam and Harriet have finished
kitten proofing
so after we do the drop off
we'll be done.
Yeah. Phew.
What are you going to do
with all your free time?
Oh no!
I didn't have a chance
to call you.
The rescue just got a litter
of four-week-olds.
I have to play mama.
Oh, they haven't been weaned?
They need someone
who's bottle fed before
and I'm the only one.
Oh.
So, you can't take
our kittens?
I'm afraid not.
-Oh, that's...
-Oh.
So disappointing.
I hope I haven't ruined
your Christmas.
Oh no.
-No.
-No, no.
We'll take care of it.
Yeah.
-Have a good night.
-You too.
Well, I guess, we're back
to square one.
Yeah.
So, you want to...
Yeah.
Well, we've exhausted
the firehouse.
We've already hit up anyone
who ever sent me a kitten meme.
We've gone through
the bookstore, cafe crowd.
And the present wrappers.
I don't know how we're going
to get the last three adopted
short of a giant billboard sign
with their cute
little faces on it.
Can't we put it in the window?
That's the cat's window.
Their special spot where
they'll watch the world go by.
You realize we sound like
cat people, right?
And now it's official.
Gabi, they're here.
We're going to trim their tree.
It's a family tradition.
Oh, good.
Well, trim away.
As soon as I get the adoption
papers signed
I'll be out of your hair.
Uh, you're invited too.
Well, that's sweet of Harriet.
It was my idea.
Hello!
Oh, my gosh!
Come here.
Look at them!
Welcome to the family.
Oh, you little...
Look at this.
Um, hey, it's a big tree
so we need a plan.
Well, um...
I can take the top.
I'll do the bottom.
Okay. And uh... Okay, you
and Marilee do the middle.
But then what will you do,
Sam?
Oh.
Well, someone has to babysit.
♪ We wish you a
Merry Christmas ♪
♪ We wish you a
Merry Christmas ♪
♪ We wish you a
Merry Christmas ♪
♪ And a Happy New Year ♪
♪ Glad tidings we bring
to you and your kin ♪
♪ We wish you a
Merry Christmas ♪
♪ And a Happy New Year ♪
-Ah.
-Ah.
Another thing I'll miss
at the firehouse.
Your Christmas brew.
I'll drop some off
each November,
keep my legacy alive
at the Christmas party.
Or, maybe I can just keep
the legacy alive.
I'm going to take the job.
I want to be chief.
It's not about her.
It's about me and you
in a lot of ways.
You helped me become someone
who can do this job.
Who wants to do this job.
Can we tell the others?
Soon.
There's some stuff I gotta
take care of first.
Anything I can help with?
Yeah actually. Thanks.
Five, four, three, two, one.
Yeah!
Merry Christmas!
Oh, where are the kitties?
Oh, um, over here.
Merry Christmas.
It will be, once we find homes
for these last three kittens.
Do you think that maybe
we should have
like a brainstorming session
tomorrow morning?
Tonight would be better.
Maybe in a few hours?
Yeah, th... the cafe's
probably open.
Uh, let's meet up
at the firehouse.
Firehouse it is.
Firehouse?
What's at the firehouse?
Yeah, I don't know.
He seemed kinda cagey about it.
Hmm? Probably flashed you
that cute little smile of his
too, didn't he?
Are you implying that there's
more to this pet adoption
than pet adoption?
No.
Have fun.
Okay.
Zachary?
What is all this?
Sam's retirement gift.
Which doubles as a billboard.
You did all of this just now?
Yeah. There's a place
that does it in an hour.
I thought I could park it in
front of the benefit tomorrow.
You know, the more eyes
the merrier.
I'm so sorry.
I just, I... I...
And here I thought you would
have nothing to do.
Oh. Oh, hi Duchess.
I have it together,
right Duchess?
I mean, I got into vet school.
I started my own practice.
So, what kind of a person flies
halfway across the country
and kisses her ex-boyfriend
after five years?
The one she's been trying
to get over.
Ugh.
Do you approve?
Or do you think I should
sleep on it.
To be clear, she kissed me
and then walked away, so.
If you know what that is about,
I'm all ears.
You just want to be scratched
between the ears.
That's all right.
So, I was thinking that I would
wear the green one,
but then I was like
no, I should give you
first dibs, so?
Thanks Duchess.
I'm glad someone could give me
some feedback,
even if it does come
with cat fur.
Hmm?
Tonight? The Christmas benefit?
Oh right. Yeah uh,
uh, blue.
You're not coming,
are you?
Ah. Yeah, I don't know.
Kinda gave Zach some mixed
signals last night so.
You're just trying to get
kittens adopted.
There's no mixed
signals there.
Actually, I kissed him.
Oh!
Well...
Just like, right on the mouth.
Just...
That is pretty straightforward.
What is wrong with me?
I thought I had put Zachary
behind me
but every time that I'm with him
it's just...
It's all still there?
Yeah.
Hey, ease up on yourself,
and Zachary.
People change.
People change their minds.
But just do me one favor.
Hmm.
Don't let this muddy things.
If you have any inclination
toward moving back here
just make sure it's
for your own reasons.
Ha!
Now, it's all making
sense to me
why you wanted
to borrow my rig.
Yeah, well, when you have a ride
like this people look.
Thought I'd park it outside
the party tonight,
see if we can't get these
last three adopted.
What did Marilee think?
Hard to tell.
She uh, kissed me
and walked away.
The first part sounded good.
I think she doesn't want what
happened before to happen again.
Will it?
Well, I'm a different
person now.
But she doesn't seem to see
that for some reason.
Let me ask you,
this different person
you were,
did he make a mistake
the first time around?
Biggest mistake of my life.
Did you ever tell her that?
Not in those exact words.
Or any words.
Zachary, I've been married
for 30 years.
Happily.
I wouldn't be either
of those things
if I never copped
to my mistakes.
It's so weird seeing you
all dressed up.
Oh. Ditto.
You look great.
What's up?
Dad's making a speech
in three minutes
and he hasn't said
who's taking his place.
I'm freaking out.
You can't freak out
for three more minutes?
Mentors don't come along
every day.
They also don't
just walk away.
So, does that mean you'll...
I mean, I'll be in your corner
no matter what my title is.
-Okay, you promise?
-I promise.
All right.
Um, I can hold down the fort
if you want.
Thank you.
I wasn't sure you would
be coming.
You look beautiful.
Thank you.
I wasn't sure either but um,
and you look...
Handsome.
Thanks.
Shall we?
Welcome everyone.
I want to thank you
for taking time out
to support Children's Hospital.
We have these fundraisers
every year,
but this year,
this one's special
because we have raised enough
money to build the game room.
Yeah!
And because...
It's my last.
Aww.
Yeah.
Yeah, some of you knew
that I was retiring
and then those of you that
didn't, well now you do.
But hey let's not look at
tonight as a goodbye.
Instead let's, let's call it
a hello
to someone that you already
know and love.
Jamestown's incoming
fire chief,
Zachary Stone.
Come on up, Zach.
Come on.
Do you think you could
recreate this?
It's called a caramel
brie tartlet.
-Mm.
-Right?
Mm-hmm.
Yeah, you're lucky I got you
one. They're almost out.
Kyle, you can't recreate a
recipe after just one taste.
I'm going to need
at least three more.
Go!
Okay, all right.
Three it is.
♪ ...Jingle Bells,
jingle all the way... ♪
Excuse me, Jaclyn?
I know you weren't expecting me.
I'm Miles.
Miles?
Welcome to Oregon.
So, what made you change
your mind?
A question.
"What if things could be better
than good?"
I was not expecting that.
It was my fault you moved
to Miami.
No. Zach, you don't have to.
I do.
You told me what you needed
and I froze.
I was so afraid of losing
what we had
that I let you slip away.
I've learned from my mistakes
and so, I guess, what I'm asking
is if you...
Hi, uh...
You need to come with me.
Right now.
Is everything okay?
Sorry. Sorry.
What is it? What?
It's Miles.
What's he doing here?
Best case scenario he's here
to talk business.
Worst case scenario...
It's a grand gesture.
Hey.
Are you double-fisting
Shirley Temples?
Nah. One is chocolate milk.
How are you going to sleep
with all that sugar?
I'm in training.
For?
Staying up late tonight
so I can stay up
later tomorrow.
Oh right. Christmas Eve.
Staying up for Santa.
Smart.
See, you get it.
I know you're upset from me
cancelling the trip.
But we can't just walk away from
everything that we've built.
It's just... I don't think
we have to.
I don't understand.
I want to help you keep
the clinic thriving, Miles.
I just...
I just won't be working there.
Well, what are you
talking about?
What about us?
I can't.
Look, I can hire a new vet
to take over the nights,
the weekends.
Come and sit down.
Do you think someone
will adopt
Donner, Blitzen,
and Rudolph?
Let's just say, uh,
there's been some interest.
He's here? I thought
he wasn't coming.
You know that guy?
Only from their Christmas card.
I know that I've been
prioritizing all of the wrong...
No, no.
Don't apologize
for who you are.
Your ambition is
what drew me to you.
I love that about you.
I just want to be home...
with my friends and my family.
I belong here.
And you belong in Miami.
You do, you love it there.
I'm so sorry.
I'm so sorry.
-Hey.
-Hi.
Um, have you seen Zachary?
Did you, uh, ever tell Sierra
that you and Miles broke up?
What? Why?
What do you mean?
Okay.
Oh, boy.
Ugh. He's not answering.
Well, you could go by his house.
He's not going to come
to the door.
What about a cat door?
Really? You're going
to joke right now?
Me climbing through a cat door.
Not funny.
What are the chances
after all of these years
we're back in the exact
same spot.
Why wouldn't he just ask me
about Miles?
I think all of these years
might be the problem.
That's the thing Jaclyn.
When I'm with him it feels like
no time has passed.
But it did.
You moved on, right?
And whether it worked
out or not,
Zachary needs to come to terms
with that.
You want to know how
my night went?
First, it was magical.
Incredible.
And then it ended on
a really bad note.
Seems to be the running
theme for me.
Sort of a cycle I just
can't break.
You understand.
What?
What are you doing?
Fine. I'll try him one
more time.
But if this goes wrong,
I'm firing you
as my life coach.
Ambrose.
You're lucky you're not
a silly human.
I need some of your
cat wisdom.
Humans are supposed to be
the smartest.
The best memory,
the most foresight.
So, why when things don't work
out between us
do we not just accept it?
We convince ourselves
that somehow magically
it's going to be different
the next time.
What?
Oh, you would have
run off too.
She had a boyfriend
I... I'm assuming.
Why didn't she tell me?
She doesn't owe me that?
Well, I guess I'm the one who
didn't say anything to stop her
when she went to Miami.
You're very wise, Ambrose.
Unlike me.
A silly human.
Oh.
No, I can't answer that yet.
No, I can't.
I'm too embarrassed.
Ambrose, no, stop.
Ambrose!
Did you just bat me?
Ambrose!
Hello?
Zachary, is that you?
Zachary? Are you there?
If you're listening,
just don't hang up.
That guy that you saw me
with was my boyfriend
but I broke up with him.
For a lot of reasons,
but mostly because,
well, he wasn't you.
So, whatever went wrong
between us,
I just, I want you to know
that you set a really high bar.
Okay?
I'm sorry.
Bye.
Thank you.
Now, that brunch is over we have
a family tradition to keep up.
So, each year on Christmas Eve
the moms of the family
give a gift to their daughter.
But this year we're mixing
it up.
You're giving the gift.
But I didn't buy anything.
Well, it's a little different
in this case.
It's less of a gift and more of
a promise to give of yourself.
And to give two cats a home.
We're adopting them?
Mm-hmm.
You showed a lot of
responsibility this week.
That's right. Cleaning up,
taking care of them.
Giving Rudolph
his vitamin drops.
And don't worry about Rudolph.
I got five calls about him
this morning.
So, this is real?
These two are really mine?
With cats it's more like
you're theirs.
Hi.
-Hey Sam.
-Hey.
There.
Oh, thanks.
Gingerbread.
Not really a flavored
coffee guy,
but Christmas Eve
I'll make an exception.
I got your text.
What's up?
I was going to ask you
the same thing.
You bolted from the party
last night,
didn't say goodbye.
I had to go home and sort
some things out.
Marilee was looking for you.
Is everything okay?
TBD.
What's that?
Oh!
Where did you come from?
What is that?
Nothing. It's work.
Um, work.
-Hmm.
-Yeah.
-Just work.
-Work.
-On Christmas Eve?
-Yeah.
What are you up to?
Why are you making that face?
What? Just open it.
The rental application
for Doctor Roberts' office.
Miles emailed this morning.
He offered to buy me out.
I still have to fly there
and sign the paperwork
and say goodbye, but...
I just thought that you,
you might want to put things
on hold after last night.
I thought about what you said
about making sure I was
moving here for my reasons.
And you're right.
I have three really big reasons
in this house.
Well, and now two little ones.
And now two little ones.
I'm so excited.
-I love you.
-I love you too.
Should we finish
this advent calendar?
Yes.
Kyle, Sierra.
All hands on deck.
We are opening Christmas Eve.
Ready for this?
Yes.
Okay.
A wreath!
Yeah.
-That is 100 percent mom.
-Yeah.
She used to make wreaths
for everyone.
Friends, family.
They reminded her that love
always comes full circle,
especially at Christmas time.
Yeah. It does.
Come here.
-Oh! Rudolph!
-Rudolph!
Come on Rudolph.
We can't forget you.
Group hug.
What on earth was that?
What is that?
Should we go see?
Merry Christmas.
I don't know.
Is it?
I jumped to conclusions
last night and I was wrong.
I shouldn't have left.
Okay.
You know, these last few days
have reminded me
how I feel when
I'm around you.
Happy.
Really happy.
Challenged.
You set a pretty
high bar yourself.
So, you were listening.
Would you believe me
if I told you that Ambrose
made me answer the phone?
I don't know, would you
believe me
if I told you Duchess
made me call you?
Cats.
Cats.
You want to come with me?
Where?
Quick home visit.
I found someone who wants
to take Rudolph.
Oh? On Christmas Eve?
Yeah.
I know the guy.
Just so you know,
this guy is not the only one
that wants Rudolph.
Actually, it's not just a guy.
It's a couple.
Oh.
Can I have a little more info?
I mean, are they married?
Do they have kids?
Not yet.
Well, have they had
a cat before?
Have they fostered?
Have they...
Wait, uh...
Is this your new house?
Yeah.
What's going on?
Marilee...
I didn't get to finish
last night.
Letting you go to Miami was
the biggest mistake of my life.
I have thought about you
every day since.
I think that's because
we're inseparable.
You know, kind of like
a bonded pair.
Well, I mean, there's some...
-Science behind it.
-Yeah.
Would you adopt Rudolph
with me?
That's full circle.
Oh, and uh,
one more thing.
Marilee White....
Will you marry me?
Oh my, Zach.
I guess that's a yes.
Yes! Yes!
♪ I always love this time
of year ♪
♪ It's even better
now you're here ♪
♪ You say that all the best
things come in twos ♪
♪ It's Christmas with you ♪