A Veteran's Christmas (2018) - full transcript

Jeremy!

I feel that.

Garland, Grace.

Two tours in Afghanistan

with the Third Marine
Expeditionary Force.

Silver Star.
Soldier's Medal.

I'm guessing the Marines
are sorry to see you go.

Thanks.
I'm gonna miss them, too.

Welcome home, Captain,
and merry Christmas.

Hey.

Where'd you come from?



Hi, you.

Okay.

I'm okay.

Hi...

I'm terribly sorry to bother you,

but I have been in an accident.
My car has just...

Hold on. You're bleeding.

Please, come inside
out of the cold.

Let's make sure you're okay.

- I hope you like earl Grey.
- Sure.

Okay.

Let's take a look here.
It doesn't look too bad.

Some antibiotic cream
should do the trick.

So, something went wrong
with your car?



There was this terrible noise
and then tons of smoke.

I tried to stop,
but I must have hit some ice.

Where's your car now?

It's stuck in a snowbank
at the edge of your field.

How's your neck and shoulders?
Any whiplash?

No. I'm fine.

Any blurred vision?
How many fingers do I have up?

Three, I think,

or else you really
are a Boy Scout.

So, this dog
appeared out of nowhere

and it felt like it was
trying to help me.

- I followed it back to your farm.
- You followed it here?

Yeah. She ran around
the back of your house.

- White with a brown patch?
- Over one eye?

There you are.
There's my good girl.

- What's her name?
- Justice.

That's a good name.

Yeah.

You're just
about perfect, Justice.

Are you a vet?

No. I mean, yes.

I'm a veteran,
but I'm not a veterinarian.

I work with dogs,
though, or I did.

I was explosive detection
and search and rescue

for a K9 unit in Afghanistan.

Are you home on leave
for the holidays?

No.

Honourable discharge.
So, I'm out.

But... I have to admit,

the thought of the holidays
makes my heart ache a little.

Why's that?

The Marines needed
to keep my dog.

Good dogs are hard to come by
and, boy, mine was the best.

What does that have to do
with the holidays?

My dog's name's Christmas.

So, now everything
from candy canes

to reindeer remind me of him.

Look at that.
She likes you.

- Do you think so?
- I do,

and Justice is a great
judge of character.

Yeah.

- I'm so sorry about your fence.
- I am really sorry about your car.

Just bought it 48 hours ago.

- You're kidding.
- Nope.

Well, if it's any consolation,

my uncle owns the best
auto repair shop in town.

Come to think of it, it's the
only repair shop in town.

- Seriously, he's very good.
- Okay.

Well, Grace,
I've seen less trouble.

But, then again,
I've seen a whole lot worse.

Your engine blew
a connecting rod

and that requires
a major teardown

and I'm going to have to
replace the cylinder head.

That sounds terrible.

Well, now, the transmission was
not affected. That's good news.

Of course, when you
went into the ditch,

you damaged the lower control
arm on the passenger side

and I'm going to have to
replace the shock absorber.

But once that's done,

you just need a front end alignment
and she'll be good as new.

How long will all this take?

Well, it might not be this year,

but lucky for you, next year's
only three weeks away.

Three weeks?

What am I gonna do?
I can't stay here.

I'm sorry,
it's a busy time of year.

I might be waiting a week
just for your parts.

- You got family expecting you?
- No, it's just me.

I mean, I have an older brother,

but he's a commercial
fisherman in Alaska.

I guess you got plans
for the holidays.

Well, no, not really.

I have a job waiting for me
in Cincinnati that starts in February.

Then I tell you what,

you could do a whole lot worse
than being stuck here.

Rivers Crossing at Christmas
is pretty special.

And having said that,
I will put a rush on your parts

and make sure you're in
Cincinnati by Christmas.

Thank you. Appreciate it.

Grace, I have a comfortable
cottage out back of my house.

You're welcome to
stay there for the time being.

Sure beats the motel
on the highway.

I couldn't possibly impose.

No. It's no problem at all,
really. I'd be happy to help.

I don't know.

If you'd like, just come back
and check it out, then decide.

Okay. Thank you.

Thanks, Uncle Roy.

- You got it.
- Thank you.

- It's so cute. Thanks.
- I'm glad you like it.

Here it is,
your home away from home.

What is all this?

I don't get too many guests,

so I, turned it into my
version of a man cave.

- Are you a lawyer?
- Judge.

I'm the municipal judge
here in Rivers Crossing.

- You're the town judge.
- Guilty as charged.

My mom likes to joke that,
as a baby,

my first word was
"jurisprudence".

Here I thought
you were a farmer.

That's me,
sowing the seeds of justice.

Anyway, despite the
pointy-headed decor,

I really do hope that you find
it comfortable here.

And I always leave the back door
to the house open,

so help yourself to
anything in the fridge.

Thank you.
Really, it's very generous.

- Please, make yourself at home.
- I will.

Well, goodnight, sleep well.

I wouldn't worry, Your Honour.

If I suffer from insomnia,

I can always crack open
one of those law books.

Right.

Tomorrow's Sunday.
I'm wondering

if maybe you'd like to join me
for church in the morning.

Since you're gonna be stuck
here for awhile,

it might be a great opportunity
for you to meet some folks,

get a feel for the town.

That's really kind of you,

but I don't have anything
appropriate to wear.

- But thank you anyway.
- No problem.

I'll be right back
with your bags.

Joe, I'm just curious
about the Santa suit.

'Tis the season.
Ho, ho, ho.

Morning.

Good morning.

- Sleep OK?
- I did, yeah.

Yes. How do you
like your coffee?

Cream or a little milk,
whatever you have.

My sister called this morning,

and I hope I wasn't
being too presumptuous,

but I asked her...

Joey! Hi.

You must be Grace.

- I'm Katie, Joe's little sister.
- Hi.

I am so sorry to hear
about your accident.

But don't worry, you are in
good hands with Uncle Roy.

And Joe tells me you
were in the Marines?

That is so interesting.

I can't wait to hear
all about that.

And thank you
for your service, really.

Of course.

These are for you
for church. Hmm?

What luck. Looks like we're
almost the same size.

Came prepared. Come on.
This'll be so much fun.

Did I mention that I own
the hair salon in town?

After all that time in Afghanistan,
you deserve some pampering.

What do you say?
Breakfast?

Me too.

I don't know why, but my sister
never looked that good in that dress.

I love you too, Joe.

You can now officially
lower expectations

for your Christmas
gift this year.

It's getting late.
I've got to run.

Thank you again, Katie, so much.

It's been awhile since I got
dressed up and it feels really good.

Well, you look amazing.
So great to meet you, Grace.

I'm super happy you'll be in
Rivers Crossing for awhile.

That lipstick colour
is perfect for you.

See you in church.
And don't let Joe be late.

Mom hates that. Bye.

- Thank you.
- More than welcome.

- Hey, she's lovely.
- Yeah.

Hey, Aunt Nellie, aren't you
supposed to be in church?

Is that my Joey?

The good Lord will have to wait.

I have too much to do and too
little time to do it.

Hello.
I don't believe we've met.

Sorry. Aunt Nellie,
this is Grace Garland.

Grace, this is my favourite
aunt, Aunt Nellie.

Don't listen to him.

I'm his only aunt
He had to like me.

- Nice to meet you.
- Pleasure is all mine.

So, what are you doing out here
with measuring tape?

I tossed and turned all night

because the Christmas committee
ordered new ornaments

and I was worried sick that they
wouldn't be the right size.

- And what have you determined?
- They're perfect.

Break out the eggnog.
Christmas is saved.

You be good or you'll get
a lump of coal in your stocking.

Hey, I'm good. I'm good.

You know, those ornaments should
have been here two weeks ago.

And don't forget
about Wednesday.

Remember, you volunteered to
help finish decorating the town?

- I will be there with bells on.
- You're invited, too.

Practically the whole
town pitches in.

It'll be so much fun.

They'll be hot cocoa
and cookies.

There's nothing like Christmas
in Rivers Crossing.

That's what I've heard.

But I don't think
I'll be here through Christmas.

I'm just waiting
for my car to get fixed.

Your car?
Something's wrong with your car?

Well, that's a long story, Aunt
Nellie, and we should get going.

I don't want to be late for
church, you either.

See you later.

- Bye.
- Bye.

Be careful where
you're going now.

Scoot down.

Grace, this is my mom Fran,

niece Addy, nephew Tyler,
you know their mom Katie,

Uncle Roy you've met,
and there's Aunt Nellie.

Everyone, this is Grace.

Good morning, folks.

I am so happy to see all of your
smiling faces on this blessed day.

Please stand

and open your hymnals
to page 315.

Don't look now, dear,

but I think your friend
might need some rescuing.

They found out she's single,

she's a vet and she's
staying in your guesthouse.

It's a perfect storm.

- Oh, boy.
- Yeah.

Thanks, Mom.

Joe, can you help me
unload the car?

I have some food and clothing
for the charity drive.

I need to get it
into the vestibule.

Yeah. Just a minute.
I'll be right back.

Okay.

The choir practices
for weeks in advance.

It's a very special Christmas
Eve service.

Say, you wouldn't be
a soprano, would you?

'Cause we could really...

Excuse me, Reverend.
Can I borrow Grace for a moment?

Of course, Joe.

That's quite the impressive
young woman you found there, Joe.

I'm sorry about the
small town inquisition.

It's okay.
Everyone's really nice.

I just... I'm not sure I'm ready
for so much civilian life all at once.

I can imagine.

Listen, I've gotta help my mom
with some stuff here.

Do you want to just take the
Scout back to the farm?

I can catch a ride
back with her,

and I'm sure Justice will be
very happy to see you.

I'll be happier to see her.

Why don't you slip out
the side door there

and I'll provide you a cover?

- You'll thank everyone for me?
- Done.

Are you aware of the deep
concern in this parish

over your marital status?

Don't you have someplace to be?

Thanks again.

Morning.

Good morning, Officer.
Is there a problem?

Are you aware you were travelling
35 in a 25 mile an hour zone?

May I see some
identification, please?

Could you take your driver's
licence out, please?

You mind telling me why it is

you're racing the
judge's truck through town?

Well, maybe because Joe was
kind enough to lend me his car.

And why would he do that?

Because I'm stuck in this town
and I'm staying with him

until my car gets fixed.

You're staying at
the judge's house?

- In his guest house.
- Is that right?

Everything all right, Sheriff?

Nothing I can't handle, Judge.

You missed a good sermon
this morning, Cooper.

Hi, Mrs. Peterson.
I think I caught it earlier.

I was at the seven a.m. service.

- It was "Christmas comes once a year".
- That's the one. Carry on.

See you back
at the house, Grace.

- So, you're a veteran?
- Captain Grace Garland, Third Marine.

Have a nice day, Captain.

- Joe?
- Hey. You made it.

- Did you get a ticket?
- No. After you left, he let me go.

Great. So, I'm headed
to the Army base

with my buddy,
about an hour from here.

- Maybe you'd like to join us?
- Why? What's up?

We volunteered to hand out
Christmas trees to vets at the base.

Cooper's wife Sheri
is the local coordinator.

She served in Afghanistan, too,

and just thought maybe
you'd like to meet her

and see some other vets.

Mainly, she wants to see
Justice.

She just puts up
with me and Coop.

Hey.

You!

- That's your friend, Cooper?
- Yup, for better or for worse.

Watch out, watch out!

Good girl!

- Hi, hon.
- Hi.

You look especially good today.

But then again,
I do love a woman

who hands out Christmas trees.

Yeah, well, you better say that,
you're my husband.

Sheri, this is Captain
Grace Garland.

She's staying with the judge
for a while.

Nice to meet you, Grace.
Is there a story here?

Yes, but not the one
that you think.

Well, I've love to hear
all about it,

but right now,
we've got work to do.

Let's go!

I got more Christmas!

It was my last patrol
before shipping out.

We were looking for survivors
in a collapsed building,

and my dog had already
helped rescue

a 10-year-old Afghani girl,
pregnant mother.

I mean, it was a good day.
It was a really good day.

Then, out of nowhere,
we came under fire.

There was an explosion, and...

I was knocked off my feet,
there was dust everywhere.

I was disoriented,
and I was exposed to enemy fire.

My dog pulled me into safety.

I think Christmas probably
saved my life.

A week later, he was reassigned
to a different handler

and I was shipped home.

- Coffee?
- Yeah.

- Can I ask you something, Grace?
- Sure, I guess.

Why Christmas?

Why did you name your dog
Christmas?

Because he was delivered
to my barracks

on Christmas Day
six Christmases ago.

That explains it.

He was a mistake, actually.

I was supposed to get

a trained nine-month-old Lab
that November,

and instead, I got a nine-week-old
puppy on Christmas Day.

It was a clerical error.

It was the best mistake
the Marines ever made.

Sorry to keep you waiting,
Captain.

Your dog's been stationed out
in Kandahar

with the 101st Battalion,
Eighth Marines.

Okay.
So, he's okay?

As far as I can tell.

- I'm sorry about your dog, Grace.
- Thanks.

I'm just glad to know
that he's okay.

Look, there's a woman in town
that fosters rescue dogs.

We could stop there
on the way home.

Thanks, I don't think so.
Christmas wasn't just any dog.

He was my partner,
my friend, my family.

We worked together every day
for six years.

I mean, he got me through
that war.

I know some people.

I've got friends
with military connections.

Maybe I could help.

I appreciate it.
I do.

The thing is, there isn't
anything anybody can do.

I just have to accept the truth.
Christmas isn't mine anymore.

Oh, what do you think about
that? Huh?

Yeah, that feels nice.
Oh, you're so pretty, huh?

Would you want to go
for a long walk today?

That'd be nice, huh?

Or we could go shopping,
get you a new Christmas collar

'cause this one's looking
a little worse for the wear.

Yes!

Good morning.

- You're up early.
- Well, blame the military.

Rise and shine.

I made some coffee,
if you want some.

Thanks, yeah.
I believe I do.

You know, you're going to spoil
my dog, and then, what'll I do?

Well, this one deserves to be spoiled.
She's a sweetheart.

A little cream, no sugar, right?

Thanks.

So, I was wondering if maybe

you would like to join me
for lunch today.

I could drive my grown-up car
and you could drive the scout.

You have a grown-up car?

I do, but I keep it hidden
in the barn.

Makes sense.

What time for lunch?

Well, how about we meet on the
courthouse steps at high noon?

Will Gary Cooper be there?

It's getting late.
I got to jump in the shower.

I forgot to feed the dog.

Don't worry about it.
I'll feed Justice.

- Really?
- Yeah.

Okay, well, her dry food
is under the sink,

and then, I have some
canned food in the fridge.

Now, I usually use a spoonful
of the canned food,

and I mix it with hot water,

and then, I add about 3/4 of
a cup of the dry food.

What were you saying about
not spoiling your dog?

Well, maybe a little.

- Yeah.
- Yeah.

Ready for some breakfast?

I bet!

How's that sit with you,
Dorothy?

Does that sound like
a fair compromise?

Yes, it does, Your Honour.
Thank you.

For that which is equitable
seems to be just,

and equity is justice that goes
beyond the written law.

That's Aristotle, folks,
for those of you keeping score.

Case dismissed.

So, you got this speeding ticket

on your way home
from basketball practice?

Yes, sir.

- Is that what you call a fast break?
- No, sir.

Lawrence, I'm gonna give you
an early Christmas present.

Instead of giving you
a violation,

I'm gonna ask that you spend
your next two Saturdays

volunteering at the food bank.
How does that sound?

That sounds good.
Thank you, Your Honour.

Now, do you think
you might give me

a little Christmas present
in return?

Yes, sir.

Good.

What I want from you is a promise
that you'll go to college.

- Are you gonna play ball in college?
- I don't think so. I'm not that good.

I see.
Well, that's okay.

Getting a good education
is what really matters.

At any rate,
keep up the good work,

keep up the good grades,
and go out and make us proud.

Thank you, Your Honour.
I will.

Case dismissed!

It must be hard on you being away
from your family for so long.

Well, it's just me
and my brother now,

and he's got his own life
in Alaska.

We exchange a lot of email, though.

I can't tell you how impressed I am
with how you run your courtroom.

Well, thank you.

I've never seen a judge
like you, not even on TV.

I'm gonna hope that
that was a compliment.

It was!

I'm curious, how do you become
the judge in your hometown?

Well, I didn't plan it that way.
It just kind of happened.

But I hope I'm not staying
much longer.

What do you mean?

I've applied for an appointment
to the district court in Chicago.

- I'm expecting news any day now.
- Fingers crossed!

- You must be excited.
- I am. It's been a long time coming.

I'm pretty sure River's Crossing
is going to miss you.

- You think so?
- I do.

I also get the feeling that you're
going to miss River's Crossing.

- Thank you so much.
- Thank you.

Thanks, hon.

Hey, Joe!
How's my favourite judge?

Still banging the gavel.
How about you, Colonel?

You know, trying to stay
out of trouble, but it's not easy.

Hey, did you hear Marnie's
coming home for Christmas?

No, I hadn't heard.

Yeah, yeah, Margaret and I
are thrilled.

Better yet, she's coming alone.

Apparently, she and David
called it quits.

You should stop by, Joe.
I'm sure she'd love to see you.

Thank you very much for the invite.
I appreciate that.

Colonel, I would like to introduce
you to Captain Grace Garland.

She's recently back from
Afghanistan,

and visiting River's Crossing
for a few days.

Grace, this is my good friend
Colonel Mike Radcliffe.

Pleasure to meet you, Captain,

but, don't let him pull your leg
with that "good friend" nonsense.

The judge here was supposed
to be my son-in-law.

I better get Margaret her lunch
before she starves to death.

Come by the house, Joe, huh?

- We'll share some Christmas cheer.
- Sure.

- And welcome home, Grace.
- Thank you, sir.

- You bet. See you, Joe.
- Good to see you, Mike.

All the best.

You know, I feel like I should explain
that encounter with the Colonel.

That's okay.
You don't have to explain anything.

I was engaged to his daughter, and well,
he was pretty happy about that.

But then, last summer,
she broke up with me

and she ran off to Chicago with
the town's former prosecutor.

- I'm sorry, that's awful.
- It's okay, I'm over it now.

Oh, darn, I'm gonna be late.
I gotta run.

I'll see you tonight!

Thanks for lunch!

Here comes my specialty.

- Triple cheese, double-baked eggs.
- Can't wait.

You want some orange juice?

Yes, ma'am!

So, how did you end up with
a career in the military?

Well, it's a long story and
it's not all that interesting.

Try me.

Well, the military offers a great
opportunity to get an education,

so I applied for an ROTC
scholarship.

- What'd you study?
- I studied engineering.

And then, after graduating,
I worked for two years

creating and maintaining
a geospatial database

for the Marines at Camp Lejeune
in North Carolina.

- Sounds interesting.
- It was... a great experience,

and it was challenging work.
But ultimately, it wasn't for me.

I realized I didn't want to be
sitting behind a desk.

I always loved dogs,

so I got myself transferred
to Search and Rescue.

Then, the Marines sent me
to Afghanistan.

And how was that?

Loved Search and Rescue.

Explosive detection,
not so much.

Is that why you left?

One day of soldiering is like
ten days of civilian life,

and after six years,
it changes you.

It was time, but...

leaving my unit was one of the
hardest decisions I ever made.

I can only imagine.

- I'm starving. Let's eat.
- Me too!

Okay, you ready?

Where is it?
Where's it gonna be?

Okay, find it, find it!
Good job!

Good girl, good girl.
You did it.

What a good girl.

That's, that's impressive.

We're just having fun,

and it's good for the dog's
concentration.

Maybe I should try that
sometime.

Hey, I'm gonna head into town
and meet with Aunt Nellie.

We're putting up Christmas
decorations today,

you want to come along?

I think I'll pass.

You do realize that Aunt Nellie
will disown me

if I show up without you?

Normally, I would say that's hyperbole,
but in this case, I believe you.

All right, Justice.

I guess that means fetch
is gonna have to wait

'cause I'm being summoned
to a higher purpose.

You have no idea.

This is the time of year
that we get River's Crossing

- all gussied up for the big event.
- Big event?

The Winter Wonderland Festival.
It's the highlight of the year.

The whole thing culminates
right here

with the annual Christmas Eve
potluck party.

In the barn?

Trust me.

You'll barely recognize this
place come Christmas Eve.

Well, I guess that would explain
all the decorations.

You don't know the half of it.

We better get going, though.
Aunt Nellie hates it when I'm late.

Lead the way.

You're late!

I know, I know,
but I brought reinforcements.

Look who's here to help.

Hi, Grace!
I'm so glad you're here.

This is quite the operation
you have going.

Well, we like to think that we're
second only to Santa's workshop.

You ready for your assignment?

Yes, ma'am.
Ready, willing and able.

Same as last year,
light bulbs on Main Street?

Bingo!

So, the guy shows up
in my courtroom

wearing his Santa costume.

White beard, big belly,
the works.

I mean, it's like a scene out of
Miracle on 34th Street.

- No way!
- Yes way!

And then, he looks me square
in the face, and he says,

"But Your Honour, I swear,
Santa didn't do it!"

- He didn't.
- He did!

And then, you're not gonna
believe this.

He insists that he has elves
that will corroborate his story.

Yeah, sitting on the bench in River's
Crossing can be rather entertaining.

Apparently.

So, what about you?

Now that your military career
is over, what are your plans?

Well, I have been offered a job
at an engineering firm

in Cincinnati, where I grew up.

It's entry-level, but you know,

after working Search and Rescue
for a few years,

I feel lucky to have the job.

- So, back behind a desk, then.
- Yup, but after combat duty,

I'm ready for a little less
excitement.

And where would you like these,
Your Honour?

Those just go down the street.

Here, let me take that from you,
and... follow me!

- Hey.
- Hey!

I can hardly believe it.
Last year this time, I was in Bagram.

No way! I was in Bagram
last Christmas, too!

Feels like another lifetime ago.

Yeah, I can relate.

It's been a big adjustment
being back stateside.

I really miss it.

Well, if you need a dose
of the military,

you can always join me
at the base.

We're delivering trees
for at least another week,

and we can always use
volunteers, especially a vet.

Someone who's been there.

- I might just take you up on that.
- Good, and bring Justice if you do.

I just heard you used to be
Search and Rescue.

I can't believe nobody told me!

We used to have a very active
Search and Rescue program

by the sheriff's department,

but Ike Monrow, the head of our SARS
department, retired last year.

We're still looking for
a replacement, though.

Don't look at me.
I'm out of that line of work.

Come on, never say never.
We should at least talk about it, right?

Have dinner with Sheri and I
tonight.

You can even let Joe tag along
here, if you'd like.

No, no.
We've got plans tonight.

- We do?
- Yup.

That is, if you're down for a
little Christmastime tradition.

- I will need your shoe size, though.
- My shoe size?

I think I'm the only person
in this town that can't skate.

What do you mean?
You're doing great.

Yeah!

Well, at least there's room
for improvement.

Who's that?

Hi, Joe.

- I was hoping I would see you here.
- Hey, Marnie. How are you?

I'm great.
Back home for the holidays.

I heard.
I ran into your dad.

Marnie, this is my friend Grace.
Grace, this is Marnie.

Hi, Grace!
So nice to meet you.

Sorry.
Just a little, wobbly.

Don't worry, you'll catch on.

Do you mind if I steal Joe
for a quick skate?

Well...
I'll be right back.

She won the Junior Olympics
figure skating in high school,

but you could play hockey
with her Christmas cookies.

Can't bake a lick.

Okay, I'm heading to the concession.
You want anything?

- Some hot chocolate, please.
- One hot chocolate, coming up.

- With whipped cream!
- You got it!

Joe, can I talk with you?

Because I think I'm going
to fall to pieces

if I don't say something.

- What do you mean?
- About what happened between us.

Seeing you again,
skating together,

it made me remember just how
much we've shared,

and how much I've missed you.

I know I don't deserve it,

but I hope you can forgive me
for what happened with David.

I was so confused.

Marnie, you left me
for another man.

I know, and I am so sorry.

I think I just wanted to get out
of River's Crossing.

I couldn't see myself staying
here the rest of my life,

but honestly, I thought about you
the whole time I was in Chicago.

You know, that was a lot of fun.
Thanks for being such a good sport.

I'm afraid I got more bruises
than I can count.

Do you need some ice?

No, I think I've had enough ice
for one night, thank you very much.

- Thank your sister for the skates.
- I will.

- How was it seeing your fiancée?
- Ex-fiancée,

and to tell the truth,
it was bittersweet.

At one point, I thought I was
going to spend my life with her.

That's over now.

Relationships are complicated,
aren't they?

Yeah, I guess they are.

How about you?
Are you in a complicated relationship?

I was, but he was transferred
to the base at Okinawa.

We tried to make it work,
but long-distance is really hard.

Yeah.

Would you like to stay
for a cup of tea?

No, thanks, I'm pretty tired.
Thanks again, that was really fun.

Don't you think you might be overdoing
this Christmas thing a little bit?

Overdoing?
Didn't I tell you my motto?

No, I don't believe you did.

You can never, ever have
too much Christmas.

- Is that right?
- Absolutely. As a matter of fact,

I am on my way to my mom's
to decorate her house.

You want to join?

Seriously, Joe,
what's with all the decorations?

Well, probably because
my dad loved Christmas.

It was by far
his favourite holiday,

and he always did up the house
in a major way.

And now that he's gone,
I try to carry on that tradition.

And it makes my mom happy.

I hope you two are hungry!
Lunch is ready.

Sorry about the mess.

Grace, I hope you're okay
with tuna melts and tomato soup.

This looks perfect.

Well, Joe will have to bring you
back some night for dinner

so I can make you a proper meal.

Are you kidding me?

I dreamed about eating meals
like these when I was in Afghanistan.

Well, I hope it's okay.

And thank you again for helping
this guy decorate my house.

Happy to help.

So, you must be a proud mom
having a judge for a son.

Doesn't do me any good.
I still had to pay a traffic ticket.

Mom, I didn't want to set
the wrong precedent.

She still hasn't forgiven me.

He knows I'm just kidding!
I couldn't be prouder.

You know, he graduated
Northwestern Law, Order of the Coif.

That's just a fancy way of saying
that I graduated top of my class.

All of the best Chicago firms
made offers,

and he turned them all down
to come back to River's Crossing.

Joe gave up a lot
when his dad died.

Instead of starting a career,

he came home to help me through
a really tough time,

and I love him for it!

Now, who wants coffee and
fresh-baked cookies for dessert?

Grandma!
We got here as soon as we could!

Have you made
the snowman cookies yet?

No, I haven't.
I was waiting for you two!

I get to put the noses on the reindeer.
That's my job every year!

Yes!

Uncle Joe.
Do you want to help us decorate?

Grace can help, too.

Does Santa live
at the North Pole?

You bet he does!

- What's the big hurry?
- Believe me.

You do not want to be late
for the Christmas tree lighting.

I thought you were late
for everything.

Not for this!

It's the start of the Winter
Wonderland Festival.

How old are you again?

You'll see.

Welcome, everyone, to the official
start of the Winter Wonderland Festival!

As your Christmas chairperson,
I am delighted to tell you that this year,

River's Crossing is fortunate to have
a very special guest in town.

She is a decorated veteran,
recently returned from Afghanistan,

a friend of our own Judge Joe's,

and soon to be this year's
Santa's Special Helper!

Give a warm River's Crossing welcome
to Captain Grace Garland!

Come on up!

Come on up!

Now, it's time to take the River's
Crossing Christmas pledge.

- Are you ready?
- I guess I am.

Do you promise to light
the town's Christmas tree,

thereby lighting the spirit of
Christmas in the hearts

of every single soul
in River's Crossing?

It's not difficult
a question, dear.

I do!

Yes, I now appoint you
Santa's Special Helper!

Let the countdown begin!

Ten, nine, eight!

Seven, six, five!

Four, three, two, one!

So, this guy gets all of his
trees from a local farm

that donates over a thousand
Christmas trees

to veterans every year.

So, I always get mine here.

Are you a blue spruce
or a Fraser fir kind of guy?

It all depends.
I let the trees speak to me.

We'll know the right one
when we see it.

This'll be interesting.

I really enjoyed lunch with
your mom and the kids yesterday.

Well, they certainly like you.
But then, you are pretty likable.

My mom went through a pretty
rough patch after my dad passed,

but she made it out
the other side,

and now she's pretty much back
to her old self again.

She seems happy.

Yeah, I think she is.

I finally feel like
I can leave River's Crossing

and resurrect my career.

What are you hoping
to accomplish?

District court judge would be
a nice place to start,

but I hope to go further.

Really?

Yeah, once I get to Chicago,
the sky's the limit.

I know you can't compare

serving a small town
like River's Crossing

with being a district court
judge in Chicago,

but from my perspective,
you've got it pretty good here.

I know, but I've always wanted
to do more important work.

You are doing important work.

I've been to your courtroom,

and you make a real difference
in people's lives.

Yeah, but I want to weigh in
on the big issues.

And I would like to be able
to get a cappuccino,

or eat some sushi,
go to the opera.

The grass isn't always
greener, you know,

especially in a big city where
I'm pretty sure it's mostly cement.

- Wait a sec, what about this one?
- You think so?

Yeah!

- It reminds me of someone.
- Really, who?

- Isn't it obvious?
- Beautiful, complex.

"Grace-ful".

- Good one.
- Thank you, thank you very much.

All right,
let get this baby home.

Let's do it.

Hi.

- Thank you.
- Thank you.

Told you.

And you would give this up
for $6 coffee and cold fish.

It's looking pretty good.

I think it's even better
than last year's tree.

What do you think about
the angel? Do you like it?

- I love the angel.
- Yeah, me too.

That's it, we're done!
This is our tree.

You know, I think we make
a pretty good team.

Are you okay?

What's wrong, Grace?

I can barely remember
my parents, but...

it was okay because Gramps
took care of me and my brother,

and he was kind and sweet
and generous,

and he made Christmas
so special.

He would make these snowman
pancakes on Christmas morning

with marshmallow eyes
and chocolate buttons.

You see, the thing about
this holiday,

especially now with my dog.

I am just so grateful for
the warmth and hospitality

that you and your family
have shown me,

especially this time of year.

Yes!

Grace, you have a phone call.
It's Katie.

She wants to talk to you.

- Hello?
- Hey, Grace! How are you?

Your brother's a sweetheart.
He's taking such good care of me.

Oh, he better be.

Hey, look, I'm calling to see

if you can help me with some
Christmas shopping today.

Don't worry, I promise the shops
in River's Crossing are adorable,

plus there will be lunch
involved.

- Are you sure?
- Sure I'm sure!

- You do remember how to shop, right?
- Well, you might have to hold me back.

I haven't been outside a PX
in quite a while.

Okay, see you there.

Now, Grace, I want you to know
my offer still stands.

Like I said, you'll head
the entire department

and oversee everything,
what do you say?

It's a very generous offer,
sheriff,

but I've got a job waiting
for me in Cincinnati.

Don't make me arrest you.

- Merry Christmas, Cooper.
- Merry Christmas, Grace.

- Just think about it, all right?
- Yeah.

What was all that about?

He wants me to head the Search
and Rescue department

for the county in River's Crossing.

No kidding!
That sounds pretty amazing.

- Yeah, it would be if I lived here.
- Well...?

He's never had a glass
of eggnog since.

Yeah, I bet!

Look at this one!
Isn't it gorgeous?

I just love the colours.
What do you think, Grace?

Grace?

I'm sure it's nothing.

Do you think he still loves her?

I don't know.
I don't think so.

Enough about that.
Let's get back to shopping.

I've got a better idea.

Consider it a little
early Christmas present,

and a foolproof way
to lift your spirits.

Come on.

After Peter left, I had to
adjust to being a single mom.

It wasn't easy, but I was lucky
because my mom helps a lot,

and Joe stepped up big-time.

He's become a real father figure
to Addie, and Tyler too.

She sure seems to love
her Uncle Joe.

Oh, yeah. The sun rises
and sets with Uncle Joe.

So, what about you?

Are you happy to be
out of the military?

It might sound a little strange,
but I actually miss the Marines.

Yeah, I had great friends.
Family, really.

And I had a job that was important.
People's lives were at stake.

Now, I don't know what I feel.

A little lost, I guess.

Have you thought about
what you want to do

now that you're a civilian
again?

Yeah.

Stop having dreams about
the war,

and not feel like an alien
when I do ordinary things

like go to the grocery store.

I can't imagine.

You know, I never thought what
life would be like

after I got out,
or how alone I would feel.

Well, maybe you should consider
Cooper's offer,

stay in River's Crossing.

It's a friendly place,

and I can introduce you
to a lot of friends.

That's super sweet, thank you.

I'm just, I'm passing through.

They're gorgeous.

- Thank you.
- Merry Christmas.

Hey.

Hey, there you are!
How'd it go?

It was fun, Katie's great.

- How was your day?
- Better now that you're here.

I did a little shopping
of my own today,

and now I'm getting a head-start
on my wrapping.

I'm usually not doing this
until Christmas Eve.

Good for you.
I saw you in town today.

You did?

Yeah, you were with Marnie.

We were in the shop
across the street.

Oh, yeah?

It's funny, we just happened
to run into each other.

It's a small town.

Katie gave me an early
Christmas present.

Nice!

Hey, you want to help me
cook dinner?

I've got some chops
and some greens in the fridge.

No, I don't think so.
I'm not very hungry,

but I was wondering if we could
stop by Uncle Roy's tomorrow

and check on my car.

- Yeah, of course.
- Great.

Good night.

Night.

Uncle Roy, you have a visitor.

Hey, there she is!
How are you, Grace?

Have you been enjoying your time
in River's Crossing?

I really have.
Everyone's been really welcoming.

Well, word might have got around

that you haven't had a real
Christmas in quite some time.

I don't understand. How...

Let's just say that Nellie is
very good at spreading the word.

And we appreciate the sacrifice
you made for our country.

Thank you.

I hope we're not disturbing you,
but I just wanted to check

and see when you think my car
might be ready.

I have good news
on that front...

and some bad news.
It's good and bad news.

Okay, I'll take
the good news first.

I was able to rebuild
your engine,

and replace the cylinder head
and the shock absorber.

Well, that all sounds great!
Can I get the car now?

What?

Nothing, just... right!

There's bad news, as well,

which is that the control arm
has not arrived yet,

and so, I really tried,

but unfortunately, your car will not
be ready until after Christmas.

Oh, really?

There is a silver lining.

At least you'll be here
for the Christmas festivities.

- Are you ready for the big festival?
- As long as no elf hats are involved.

- I can't make any promises.
- Oh, well.

I do, however,
need my Santa suit.

The North Pole requires
my services tonight.

I've got three separate shifts
at Santa's village.

Will you be okay
with Katie and the kids

while I make like a jolly old fella?

Of course.

- What do you think?
- I think red's your colour.

Hey, Judge!
You ask Santa for a new gavel?

Merry Christmas, Judge!

Is there anyone in this town
you don't know?

This is amazing.

- You can go talk to her, you know.
- Oh, no, thank you.

I'm very happy right here
where I am.

Uncle Joe!

- Uncle Joe!
- Hi, Grace.

- Did I die and go to heaven?
- Very funny.

You look adorable.
What's it for?

She's the lead in this year's
Christmas play.

It's called "Heaven Can't Wait".
It's pretty funny.

Well, we can't wait to see it,
but right now,

I have some Christmas business
that I need to take care of.

Do you think you guys can stay
out of trouble while I'm gone,

especially my little angel here?

It might help if we had some
caramel corn to keep us occupied.

Oh, yeah, Uncle Joe!
Caramel corn is an excellent idea.

Caramel corn, all around.

I hear Caramel Christmas Crunch
is the way to go.

- Okay, see you later!
- See you guys later.

- You don't get dizzy, do you?
- I don't think so,

but I haven't been on one of
these since I was a kid.

Last Christmas for me.

- Are you warm enough?
- Perfect.

I think I'm the one
who's going to get dizzy.

But maybe it's just the company.

You know, your face lights up
when you smile.

- You think so?
- I know so.

What are the odds?

I mean, what are the chances
you would knock on my door

and the two of us
would end up here?

Maybe it's just dumb luck.

You could talk to Justice.

She did have something
to do with it.

I guess I'm gonna
have to thank her, then.

I already did.

Hey, there you two are.

Did you have a good time
on the ride?

- Joe got a little dizzy.
- It was all her fault.

She kept telling the reindeer
to go faster and faster!

Can I get you some hot cider,
warm you up?

Yes, please.

Hey, I'll be right back.

You know, Joe?

I don't think I've ever seen you
this happy.

I know it's none of my business
but if you ask me, she's a keeper.

So, don't screw it up.

You know, you are just
full of great advice.

Yup.

Hey, Joe! Aren't you due
at Santa's village?

Five minutes ago!
I got to go.

I'll see you at the big
Christmas tree in an hour?

Okay.

I swear that boy was born a week
past his mother's due date,

and he's been late ever since.

- Ready for that cider?
- Yes, please.

Hey, Grace!
Have you seen Joe?

You just missed him.
He went to Santa's village.

Oh, darn.
I was hoping he could help.

What's the matter?

Addie is struggling with a bout
of stage fright.

She doesn't want to be
in the play now.

- Oh, no! After all that practice?
- I know!

I thought maybe Joe could talk to her.
She always listens to him.

Could I be of any help?

I don't know, maybe.
It's worth a try.

Okay.

Sweetie, I thought you were
excited about the play?

I was, but I don't want to
anymore.

I'm afraid I'm going to forget
all my lines.

Sweetheart.

You have been rehearsing
for weeks now.

You know your lines
backwards and forwards.

My stomach hurts.

You know, Addie,
everybody's afraid sometimes.

I mean, I was afraid every single
day when I was in Afghanistan.

But I thought you were brave.
That's what everybody says.

Soldiers are brave.

They say that because we do
our job for our country,

but that doesn't mean
we're not afraid.

- Really?
- Absolutely.

Bravery is doing
what you're afraid to do,

what you think you can't do.

There isn't any courage at all
if you aren't scared.

What do you think?
You want to try being brave?

Yeah? Good.

Merry Christmas, boys and girls!

I bet they don't make Santas
like that in Cincinnati.

No, they don't.

Come on, let's find out
what you want for Christmas.

You could stay, you know?

I have to admit it's hard not
to fall in love with this place.

Do you see Rudolph
flying up there?

Merry Christmas, everybody!

So good!

Was I brave?

You were very brave,
and you were very good.

Unbelievable.
You were amazing!

- Did you like it?
- More than words can say.

I am so, so proud of you.

I love the part
when you sang the solo.

And the part when she was
bumping into the other angels?

Yes! I was laughing so hard tears
were running down my cheeks.

- Really?
- Really. Congratulations.

I should take this.

Addie...

Hello.

Yes, this is Judge
Joseph Peterson.

Yes.

Thank you.
This is an incredible honour.

January 5th?
Yes, I can make that work.

Absolutely, of course.

Thank you again,
and Merry Christmas.

That was Chicago.

I just got appointed
to the district court.

Congratulations.
That's amazing news.

My first day on the bench
is January 5th.

This is incredible.

I didn't expect this
to happen so soon.

I got a lot to do.

Don't worry,
you'll get it all done.

But Uncle Joe,
Chicago's so far away

and you already have a job.

I'm sorry.

I didn't want you
to find out like this.

Call him back and tell him
you have to stay here.

Tell him you have to be a judge
here in River's Crossing.

I am so sorry.
I really am.

I'm gonna miss seeing you
every day, too.

But it's gonna work out,
you'll see.

I'll come and I'll visit
whenever I can,

and you can come visit me
in Chicago.

- I don't want you to go.
- Addie, I am so sorry.

Let's not let this ruin
your big day.

Let's go see your mom
and your grandma.

They're waiting for us
in the lobby.

Yeah.

It's okay.

- What's the matter, Addison?
- Is everything okay?

I just learned I got
the appointment in Chicago.

She was there when the call
came in.

Sweetie.
This a big deal for your uncle.

Come here, let Grandma
give you a big hug.

We all know how much
this girl loves her uncle,

but you know what, pumpkin?

He's gonna come back and visit,

and right now, we have to be
very happy for him

because it's important
to Uncle Joe.

Can you try? Okay.

How about this talented niece of mine?
Was she terrific, or what?

I am so proud of you!
You remembered all your lines.

And these are for you,
Addison. Congratulations.

Mom, is it okay if Grace helps
me change out of my costume?

Of course.
Do you mind?

I'd love that.

Come on.

You know, for such a smart guy,

sometimes, Uncle Joe
can be pretty dumb.

He thinks being a judge
in Chicago is more important

than being a judge here,
but he's wrong about that.

Why do you think that?

Because he's the smartest,
best judge you've ever seen,

and people here really
appreciate him.

Everybody in River's Crossing
knows him, everyone loves him,

but I love him most of all.

I know this is really difficult,
Addie.

But your Uncle Joe has worked
really hard for this,

and sometimes,
when you love someone,

you have to try to be
happy for them,

even though it might hurt
on the inside.

Are you going to miss him too,
Grace?

Yeah, I think I am.

I thought so.

My mom says you're the best thing
that ever happened to Uncle Joe.

Did she?

I mean, I'm only 12,

but isn't love more important
than a job in Chicago?

You're pretty smart yourself
there, kiddo.

Do you think some hot cocoa
would make us feel better?

I think that's the best thing
I've heard all day.

Let's do it.

What a wonderful night
this has been.

Congratulations, son.

I am so, so proud of all of your
accomplishments, and now this.

- I couldn't be happier for you.
- Thanks, Mom.

Hey, come here, you!
Give me a hug.

- Uncle Joe?
- Yeah.

Grace and I talked about
you leaving for Chicago,

and I want you to know

that if that's what you really,
really, really, really want,

then I'm gonna try hard
to be happy for you.

Thank you, Addison.
And Grace.

It really means a lot to me.

That's about the best Christmas
present I could ever wish for.

Well, there might be a tie, too.

You have no idea how much
I'm going to miss all of you.

I'd better go.

Aunt Nellie and Uncle Roy
are going to need help

coaxing Tyler off the carousel.

Did I mention how sharp
you look in that red suit?

- You think so?
- Absolutely.

It's very becoming.

The white beard, the big belly,
it somehow works for you.

Well, I can tell you one thing.
It's been one heck of a day for old Santa.

I don't know.

It seems to me like your dreams
are finally being realized.

Yeah, but now my dream
seems kind of different

now that it's become a reality.

Well, Santa's a wise old fella.
I'm confident that he'll figure it out.

Well, here we are,
safe and sound.

Do you want me to hang that up
for you?

Thank you.

Grace, can I ask you something?

Sure.

What do you think I should do?

I can't tell you
what you should do, Joe.

I think you have to search
your heart,

and figure out what's most
important to you.

Right.

I should let you get some sleep.

Don't worry.
Things have a way of working out.

I hope so.

Night, Grace.

Good night, Joe.
Sleep well.

That is wonderful news, Marnie.

I am so excited.

Have you spoken
to your dad about it?

Does he know?
What does he say?

Really?

I love you so much
for this, Marnie.

I am... I am so excited

that I am over the moon
about this.

Yes, of course.

Hey there, sleepyhead.
Want some coffee?

No, thanks. I'm...
Maybe I'll get some later.

- Are you okay?
- Yeah, I'm fine.

I just, I'm feeling...

I'm feeling a little off
this morning.

- Can I get you anything?
- No, I'm fine.

Gee, I hope so.
I mean, it's Christmas Eve.

Yeah.

And we have the big party
in the barn tonight.

How did it get to be so late?

I got to run.

If you need anything,
please call me.

Merry Christmas, Justice.

You take care of Joe now,
do you hear me?

You sweet dog.

- Hey.
- What's up, Grace?

- Can you do me a favour?
- Oh, it depends.

Can you give those keys to Joe

and tell him that the scout's
parked out front of the cafe?

I guess, sure.

You heading off somewhere?

Back to Cincinnati
where I belong.

- What, like now?
- Yeah.

- Bus leaves in ten minutes.
- Well, no, no, no.

Grace, what about Joe?

I mean, tonight's the big party,
tomorrow's Christmas.

You can't just leave.

- Come on, what about your car?
- I don't know.

I don't care.
I'll get it some other time.

This is crazy, Grace.
You can't just leave!

I'm really sorry about
the Search and Rescue program.

What you were offering me
was a dream come true.

Then, don't leave.

Okay, you're the perfect person
to head the department.

I can't.
I don't belong here.

You're wrong about that, Grace.
You do belong here,

and I'm not the only one
who thinks so.

Please give Sheri
a big hug for me.

I don't know how you got
so lucky,

but you have
an incredible woman there,

and please tell Katie
and Addie and Fran,

and Nellie and everybody,

please tell them all
thank you so much

because I'm going to miss them
more than they could ever know.

Grace!

Please excuse me.

This better be good, Coop.
You know where I am.

Joe, did you know that Grace is
heading back to Cincinnati?

- Yeah, sometime after Christmas.
- No, today!

What do you mean?
Why would she do that?

I don't know,
but for some reason,

she feels that she doesn't
belong here.

She's getting on a bus
right now.

- You got to stop her, Coop.
- How am I supposed to do that?

I don't know, but you gotta
help me out here.

Under no circumstances is Grace
to leave River's Crossing.

- Well, Joe, it's not like...
- I'm counting on you, Coop.

Just make it happen.

We're gonna pick this up on
Monday, folks, after Christmas.

Court is adjourned.

Just be a minute,
looking for someone.

- Grace, I'm sorry to disturb you.
- What are you doing here?

I'm here to bring you back
to River's Crossing.

Why?

I can't exactly say,
but it's important.

It's really, really important.

- You can't be serious.
- I'm asking you as a friend.

Because if you don't,
I'm pretty much guaranteed

to have the worst Christmas
of my life.

So, what do you say?

Please?

Cooper, what are we doing here?

It's Christmas Eve, Grace.

Come on.

Here she is.

Thanks, Coop.

Merry Christmas, Grace.

What is all this?

Grace, the truth is
I am crazy about you,

and I want to assure you
that I'm not going to Chicago

or anywhere else.

You're not?

No, and between you and me,

I don't like sushi that much,
anyway.

I don't understand, Joe.

I heard you on the phone
with Marnie.

I'm getting to that.

Christmas!

Christmas! Hi!
Christmas!

My sweet!
You're really here!

I can't believe you're here!
That's my good boy.

Yes!

How did you do this?

Thank you, Joe!
Thank you so much.

I'm sorry for the subterfuge.

I didn't want to tell you
until I was absolutely sure

that we could get Christmas
to River's Crossing.

It was Marnie and the Colonel
who made it happen.

Thank you!

I can't tell you how much
this means to me.

Whoa!
At ease, Marine.

I don't know how you did this.

I didn't think I'd ever see
Christmas again.

I pulled some strings,
called in some favours,

and got her qualified
for early retirement.

No mission too difficult,
no sacrifice too great.

I found out this morning
that Christmas had arrived

from Afghanistan

with a representative
from American Humane,

and I called Joe right away

to let him know
that he was safe and sound.

He's all yours now.

Your car's been ready for days.

- I can't believe you did all this.
- This is River's Crossing.

People care here.

And they love a good
Christmas party.

Welcome to River's Crossing,
Christmas.

- Hey, that job offer still good, Cooper?
- Job's yours, Grace,

as long as Christmas is part
of the deal.

Merry Christmas, Grace Garland.

Merriest Christmas ever,
Joe Peterson.