Long Lost Christmas (2022) - full transcript

Interior designer Hailey sets out to surprise her mother Patricia with an unexpected gift related to the extended family for which she has long yearned.

I dream of Christmas

Snow flakes in the air

I dream of Christmas

Here we go.

I am so glad you've joined me

for my favorite time of year...

the Christmas holiday.

If you've been following me

you know I've got great hacks

for holiday design but today

I wanna talk about embracing

the heart of the season.

The personal touch makes

all the difference

and Christmas is the time

to fill your space

with family traditions.

Felt stockings from second

grade... check.

Homemade cranberry

popcorn strings... perfect.

And of course... the smell of

Christmas cookies.

Today I am baking

our family favorite...

candy cane cookies.

And last... the Christmas tree.

My dad set ours up the day

after Thanksgiving.

Though if it was up to him

he would've started around

Labour Day because...

Oh... wow...

My regular followers know

I lost my dad

six months ago, but he is...

such a part of what Christmas

means to me.

Every year, uh, we would put

together a train under the tree.

Now, it wasn't fancy.

It ran off the tracks

half the time,

but it is everything

I'm talking about.

Personal and filled

with memories.

Now you know what to do.

I'm Hayley Brandt signing off

with a few holiday tips

and some unexpected emotions.

Wow.

Mrs. Peterson's designer

showcase house,

Lolly Peterson speaking.

Mrs. Peterson, hi.

It's Hayley Brandt.

Oh, wonderful.

I've had a designer fall out

of this year's showcase.

How busy are you?

Say you're not busy at all.

I'm sorry, are you asking me...

To take over one of the rooms.

It's an impossible timeline,

our doors open

on New Year's day, but

it's fantastic exposure...

and it's for a good cause.

Say yes.

Yes. Yes.

How did you find me?

Well, everyone else is

on vacation or booked.

And then someone showed me

your... what's it?

Uh... live thing.

Vendors are in

short supply so you will

need to find resources.

Still a yes?

I will be there in half an hour.

Oh! Merry Christmas to me.

The showcase house

is incredible.

You know how it works, each

designer gets assigned a room

to decorate in their own

distinct style and then people

buy tickets to see the house

and the proceeds go to charity.

Sarah, I got the study.

It's huge!

But the other designers

are all really well-known,

it's gonna be hard to stand out.

No, you're gonna nail it

like you nail every other gig.

I hope so.

Anyway... still on for later?

Uh... yeah.

I'm just dropping off food

to my mom.

I can't wait to see

what your mom's house looks

like this year.

Me too.

Hi Mom.

Oh... I didn't realize

how late it got.

I'm sorry, I had to stop by

this work thing.

Hi sweetheart.

Uh, have you been home all day?

I took the car to fix

that headlight.

I thought you were gonna get

out some Christmas decorations

and get started inside.

I thought so too.

Well, I brought you some dinner.

And candy cane cookies,

your favorite.

It sounds like quite

an opportunity.

It's launched all sorts

of big names.

It could really push me

to a whole new level.

Your dad...

would be so proud.

Let's do the tree.

Maybe even get a few garland up.

You're so supportive.

I just can't find it in me yet.

Well, we have to try, right?

For Dad.

Yeah.

Shoot.

Hmm... who's Gordon?

Got some more good stuff.

Where'd you find that?

It was under some

storage shelves.

Was it yours?

I thought we lost that

in the last move.

That's you in the picture.

It says Gordon on the back.

Who's Gordon?

He's my brother.

You have... your...

I knew that you were adopted,

but...

He was older than me

by seven years.

He looked out for me

the whole time

we were in the group

home together.

He aged out when I was 11.

And then what happened?

He had a hard time

finding his way.

He'd come back

and see me at first.

But he got into some trouble

and eventually he just...

never came back.

When's the last time

you saw him?

A few months before your

Grandma and Grandpa adopted me.

He would've been 19.

And no contact since, at all?

We could find him.

It's so much easier to find

people now.

We could start

with a name search

and if he has a business...

Hayley, stop.

Too much time has passed.

I made my peace

with it long ago.

Let it go.

Okay.

I can't believe you still do

handwritten notes

in all your Christmas cards.

Well, you know what

I always say...

The personal touch...

is everything.

Listen, with the showcase...

You're gonna be busier

than ever.

Yes, but I don't wanna leave

you alone.

Especially during the holidays.

I'll find my way.

I understand you need time, Mom.

But... can you try to just get

out a little everyday for me?

I'll try.

Just for my girl.

How about a cookie?

Yes. Just for you.

She has a brother?

So I have an uncle

all this time.

How's that possible?

I don't know.

How does someone never mention

they have a brother?

His name is Gordon Renton

and I have an idea.

I mean, how many Gordon Renton's

could there be?

Uh... think for a second.

If you take this step

you can't go back.

She reads all day

in my dad's sofa

and has barely decorated

for the holidays.

Maybe finding her long lost

brother is what she needs

to get moving again.

Or maybe this Gordon guy

stayed away for a reason.

Maybe he's a bad person.

Okay... or they lost

each other too soon

and he's dying to find her.

If I could bring them together

over Christmas

wouldn't that be the most

amazing present?

Let me... let the expert

go to work.

Uh... what was the name of

your mom's group home again

and where was it located?

Right. It was, um...

Braithwaite and it was here

in Denver.

And the nearest high school

to Braithwaite is...

- East Barrington High.

- Okay.

Six names on one page?

Hayle? You okay?

Yeah, it's just...

Well, it's been me and my dad

and Mom for so long.

Now I could have more family.

There are phone numbers.

- Here.

- Yeah?

Yeah.

Oh boy. Okay, this is happening.

This is really happening.

Alright.

Here we go.

Hi. I'm calling from

the East Barrington High

reunion committee.

Is this the same Gordon Renton

who graduated in '78?

Oh. Sorry.

Thanks for your time.

Okay.

Next one.

Hi. May I please speak

to Gordon Renton?

Oh... I'm so sorry

for your loss.

Scary how easy this is for you.

Three are in Maine,

Seattle and... Germany.

Only one other with

a Colorado area code,

a business called Timber

Grove Cabins.

Wanna try?

Oh. Uh...

It's ringing.

Timber Grove Cabins,

Gordon speaking.

Uh, hi. Is this, uh,

Gordon Renton?

Who's calling please?

Mr. Renton I'm calling

on behalf of

East Barrington High School

reunion committee.

Uh, next year is your...

I'm sorry ma'am

but I got my GED.

Good luck to you though.

- He got a GED.

- Oh.

You know, but...

he didn't deny going

to East Barrington High.

He just said that he didn't

graduate from there, right?

I mean, come on, look.

Do you think they look the same?

Uh... that picture's

from 50 years ago.

Okay. Well his business says

that it's in a town called

Silver Valley.

Isn't Silver Valley

right near Aspen?

I think so.

It's, like, four hours away.

I mean, I could take a day trip

there and meet him in person.

There are three other Gordons.

Yeah, like in... Germany

or wherever.

This one is in Colorado

where my mom grew up

and maybe where he grew up.

And this is something you have

to ask in person, right?

What are you gonna tell

your mom?

Nothing, until I know more.

Won't she wonder why

you're taking a road trip?

I'll say that I'm sourcing items

for my showcase house, right?

I have to do that anyway.

Look... if it's not him, I come

back, no harm done.

But if it is him...

maybe I come back with her

long lost brother.

Okay.

I think I can do this.

Oh, no.

I... I can't do this.

I can't do this.

Okay.

I'm doing this.

I'm going to do this.

- Hi.

- Hi. Hello.

Uh... are you... you're not

Gordon Renton.

No, I'm not.

You must be from out of town.

I... I am.

And of course you're not him,

Gordon would be much older.

So, um...

I'm so sorry, can you...

can you just give me one sec?

Uh, yep. Yep.

Hello?

One sec.

Of course.

Yeah.

I'll be there, yes.

Yeah. We'll be open.

Okay. Great.

Oh no! I am...

Okay, bye.

I am so sorry.

I am not usually this clumsy.

I mean, I am.

But usually people get to know

me first and then it's okay.

It's fine.

And just so you know,

the cabins we actually build

are much more sturdy than this.

Um... so, is Mr. Renton here?

You just missed him.

He left right before

you came in.

He's heading up

to the model cabin.

Can I help you with anything?

Are you... interested

in building a cabin?

No. I'm... looking

to rent a cabin.

- Oh.

- Yeah.

Uh... next spring actually.

A large cabin for a week.

Do you wanna head up

to the model cabin?

You can look around.

Oh...

Gordon will be up there.

Yes! Gordon... perfect.

At the... at the cabin, that

would be... that'd be great.

- Great.

- Yeah.

Follow me.

The road up can get pretty icy,

I'll take you in my truck.

Oh. Okay, great.

- Okay.

- Thanks.

Yeah, we just

finished decorating

for our annual

Christmas fundraiser.

Gordon started it years ago.

It just keeps getting bigger.

Sorry, I'm an interior

decorator,

I couldn't help but notice

this table.

Where did you get it?

Oh, my friend Brianna

designed it.

She's got a workshop in town.

I could see if I've got a card

if you want.

That'd be great.

Yeah. Let me see.

My late wife carved that.

Incredible.

Yeah.

Here we are.

Brianna at Meadowlark Designs.

- Hey.

- Nice. Thank you.

I have it on good authority

she's the best furniture

maker in Colorado.

Gordon, this is Hayley.

Hayley is an interior

decorator from...

Sorry, I didn't ask where

you're from.

Oh, Denver.

City girl. I spent

some time there.

She's interested

in renting a cabin.

Nice.

Uh, yes.

For a reunion in the spring.

What better place

than Silver Valley?

You've spent time here?

Uh... well, not since

I was little.

Well, you drove a long ways.

Why don't we go get lunch

and I can tell you more

about the area?

Yeah, that would be great.

Gordon, any chance

you're free to join?

I'd love to hear more about

Timber Grove Cabins.

I could eat.

Great! Alright.

How long have you had

the company?

Forty years this May.

Wow! And you...

you grew up here?

Sorry. I...

I ask a lot of questions.

I started my own business

two years ago

and I love hearing how

other people got started.

I built my family

in Silver Valley.

First place that felt like home.

How about you?

Is it a big family reunion?

Uh, the... the reunion is of,

um... neighborhood friends.

Yeah, we were all really,

really close.

So, Gordon...

Oh, what are you flagging

down reindeer

from the sky in that thing?

We have an ugly sweater contest

at the festival committee

meeting later.

I... am winning.

You're definitely a shoe in.

Brianna, this is Hayley...

Hayley, Brianna.

Hayley is an interior decorator

from Denver and...

Hayley Brandt?

I... watch your livestreams.

You're kidding?

Well I am crazy

about your table.

Like I said, best furniture

maker in Colorado.

Dad... stop.

Are you okay?

Yeah... yeah. I'm good.

Well, it was so nice

to meet you.

I will definitely stop by.

Sounds great. I gotta grab a pie

for that meeting.

- See ya later.

- Bye! See ya.

So, um... how old were you

when you left Denver?

Sorry. Um...

I forgot to ask Brianna

about that hutch she's making

for the Harrison cabin.

Personal touches are everything.

You guys have a good day.

He's a very private guy

so don't be offended.

Yeah.

Hey, listen, I can definitely

help you find

a nice, big cabin for your

neighborhood reunion.

Oh, also there is a Christmas

festival tonight.

The whole town turns up.

You should stick around.

It might be a good way to get

a feel for the place.

Well, I do need more time.

Can you suggest a good B&B?

Yeah.

Yeah? Looks like I'm staying

the night.

So now you have an uncle,

a cousin and a potential

dating opportunity?

That's pretty fast work

for one day.

Okay, can we get back

to Gordon please?

Tell me you did more research.

The GED...

there was a Gordon Renton

with a GED transcript

and it was the right year but...

it was in Kansas.

There was an army vet sticker

on the back of his truck.

There are two army bases

in Kansas.

Sarah, there are these

small things that he did

that are just like my mom.

You know how she folds

her towels?

He did it too.

What if it really is him?

Could be.

Oh!

Patricia?

Ellen... hi.

Oh, we haven't seen you in...

Oh, honey, I was so sorry

to hear about Henry.

What a terrible loss.

He was such a lovely man.

Are you holiday shopping?

I've got a few new novels

I could recommend.

Actually I was looking

for a Christmas card.

I remembered you have the

most beautiful selection.

Just one special card?

Oh, here.

How about this?

It's perfect.

Hayley! You made it.

Jake, hey.

You were right, everyone

really does turn out for this.

- It's a pretty tight community.

- Yeah.

You'll see in the spring at

the arts festival as well...

for your reunion.

Uh... yes, right.

Spring reunion, yes.

Whoo!

Are you cold?

Yeah. It's, uh...

it's a lot colder than

I thought it would be.

And I didn't actually pack

for an overnight, so...

Kind of a spur of the moment

gal, aren't ya?

Yeah.

Alright.

Why don't we get you a hat?

- Oh... great.

- Okay.

What the heck is that?

You've never seen cookies

on a stick before?

Tell me you buy cookies

on a stick.

What kind of Christmases

did you have?

The best, actually.

My dad dressed up

like Santa one year.

He rented a sleigh

and delivered presents

around the neighborhood.

My friends referred to him

as Santa Henry from then on.

What's he gonna do to

top it off this year?

Oh... wow.

It is actually freezing.

Okay. Come with me.

Yeah.

I love hats. I love these hats.

I don't know how to choose.

How about this one?

Oh...

Always a fashionable

holiday choice.

Perfect, but only if you go

for this one.

O-kay.

Oh, cute.

So cute.

Oh, somehow not quite you.

It's not me?

No. Maybe more

of an elf look.

Ooh, I'm not really much

of an elf guy.

- No?

- But I think you could be.

Oh, I could pull it off.

Let's see.

Oh, it's fun.

It's maybe a bit over the top.

- It's not over the top at all.

- No?

It's actually perfect.

Could we get the two

hats, please.

Oh... there it is.

Right there.

Oh wait!

No. I... I've got this,

I'm the cold one.

No. I'm the one that asked you

to stick around, so.

Do you know what we should do?

We should get

some hot chocolate.

- Absolutely.

- Yeah.

- Yes, but only if it is on me.

- Okay.

Hey. Isn't that Brianna?

Yeah. Let's go say hi.

Okay.

Hey!

Hey. You stuck around.

Just got her a new hat,

she was a little cold.

I would've got you one

but they didn't have one

ugly enough for that sweater.

Hmm, you mean my

award-winning sweater?

You won?

What'd you get?

- A really ugly trophy of course.

- Of course.

You made all this?

This is amazing.

I'm a one-woman outfit.

Wow. You must be crazy busy.

The Christmas stuff goes fast.

It's the rest of the year

I'm trying to bulk up.

I keep telling her it's only

a matter of time.

You two are cute together.

Thanks. I...

Wait, what?

What? Are you two not together?

- No.

- Oh?

No, no, no.

Are you kidding?

We've known each

other since forever.

- He's like my... brother.

- Sister, yeah.

He's all yours...

if you want him.

Oh, no... I'm not...

Of course, you must have

a boyfriend-

Looking. Just like...

Welcome.

Welcome everyone to the Silver

Valley Christmas festival!

Yay!

Have a jolly time and win toys

to donate to the fireman's

toy drive.

Plenty of elves here to help

gather the toys.

Merry Christmas!

Hey, why don't you go

win some toys

and I'll get us some

hot chocolates?

- Deal.

- Great.

Oh, try again.

Oh, hey.

Well, hello. You stayed.

Yeah, well Jake mentioned this

festival and I couldn't resist.

I used to kill in this game.

Really?

Team up, win a toy together?

You're on.

Alright, let's go.

- Ready?

- Mmhmm.

Yes!

Fifty points, yes!

Okay. Ready?

Yeah, yeah.

Yes!

Two chances left.

We got this.

Okay, we got this.

Yes!

Alright. No pressure.

Okay.

Winner!

Yes!

Here is your prize.

Oh!

He reminds me of one I had

as a kid.

What about you?

You must've gone to a lot

of carnivals as a kid

in what, Kansas did you say?

I never, uh, never really

made it to anything like this

when I was a kid.

Thanks for the game.

- Hey, you won!

- Hey. Yeah.

Sorry that took so long.

I had to jump in front

of the line

and bribe a couple

of 10-year-olds.

You okay?

Yeah. You know what?

I'm just gonna drop this toy off

in the donation bin

and head back to the B&B

if that's okay.

Yeah. Do you want a ride?

I can give you a lift.

Yeah, I'd like that.

Alright.

Dad, I got it. You're not

supposed to lift heavy things.

I know what my doctor said

as well as you do.

But in case you forgot, I run

a construction company,

I lift heavy things

all day long.

Well, maybe you should stop

doing that.

Ah, not this again.

I'm fine now.

I worry about you.

I know you do, honey.

But you shouldn't.

Maybe it's time

to start thinking seriously

about retiring.

You have Jake, you know?

What would I do with myself

all day long?

I'd be bored to tears.

You are the most stubborn man

on the planet.

I know... but you still love me.

Your work looks amazing,

by the way.

Thanks Dad.

Have you been in Silver Valley

all your life?

Mostly, yeah.

Spent a little bit of time

in Chicago.

I hear it's a wonderful city.

It wasn't for me.

But I came back here

and found my feet.

Is that when you started

working for Timber Grove?

Actually Gordon kind of

saved me.

I know he seems tough

on the outside but...

once you get to know him

and get past all that, he's...

probably the most kind man

I've ever met.

He sounds incredible.

Ah!

Hey now, come on.

Did he hurt you?

Are you sure?

- Wow.

- Wow.

So... are you gonna swing

by tomorrow

and finalize your reunion plans?

I...

Sorry, not that I was selling

you on all this tonight

or anything, like... this wasn't

about that, I just...

I'll definitely come by.

Great.

Hi sweetheart.

How was today?

Good!

I went to the bookstore

and saw Ellen there.

Great. Did you buy out

the whole store?

Not the whole store.

Mom, uh... I know it's

a touchy subject, but...

could I ask you more

about Gordon?

Sweetie, I just don't wanna talk

about this.

Yeah, I know. I know,

but...

you know, what could be so

terrible about more family?

Tell me how your day went.

Um... actually...

I met a fantastic

furniture designer.

You would love her.

Terrific.

You know, anyone you

find will be lucky you did.

I love you Mom.

Love you more.

Morning!

Hey, you're up early.

I just wanted to get

the shop cleaned up

in case Hayley comes by.

She's not gonna care if your

workshop is messy.

Workshops are supposed

to be messy.

- You're such a guy.

- You're such a girl.

I just want it to look nice,

that's all.

You do think she'll stop by,

right?

Yes. Why are you so nervous?

She's gonna love your work.

I owe you a lot, you know.

I know. Wait, why exactly?

I never would've left Timber

Grove to start my own business

if you hadn't been there.

I think you're underestimating

your dad.

He would've shoved you

out the Timber Grove door

if it meant making you happy.

I'm concerned about him.

Since Mom died he seems lonely

and a little distant.

I know.

I'm trying to take more

of the workload

and I wanna talk to him

about some of my new ideas.

Jake... don't talk,

just show him your cabin.

Not ready yet.

Ah... now who's nervous?

Not me.

Nope, not me.

Right, okay. Bye.

Hey there.

You came! Welcome.

Mind if I look around?

Make yourself at home, please.

Your stuff is beautiful.

How long have you been at this?

Forever.

My mom was a sculptor.

My dad gave me her tools

and told me to go for it.

My dad was the same.

He passed six months ago.

I'm so sorry.

Was he an artist, or...?

An attorney actually.

But he'd totally say

he was an artist.

At Christmas he went all out.

He's the one who encouraged me

to start my business.

Well, we come from

the same family.

Creative and encouraging.

Um... you know what?

I actually have a project

coming up in the next few weeks.

Something along the lines

of this desk and chair

would be perfect.

It's a showcase house in Denver.

Wait, are you talking about

Mrs. Peterson's designer

showcase house?

Yeah!

I'd love to be involved.

And if these aren't exactly

right I can do sketches.

Would you?

Because I've got assigned the

study and it is all last minute.

Of course. It's such

a cool event.

I could get you sketches

by tomorrow.

That fast?

I'll run the sketches

over to you in the morning.

That is if you're staying in

Silver Valley another night?

Sounds like I have to.

Okay. Why don't I meet you

at the café at 9:00 tomorrow?

We can have a cup of coffee

before you go?

Perfect.

Thank you.

Wow.

Oh, and hey, if I'm staying

another night,

could you tell me where

I could get some clothes?

Yeah, absolutely.

I will, um... I'll text you.

Sounds good.

- See ya. Bye.

- Bye.

Every year we would make a train

to put under the tree together

and it wasn't fancy.

It ran off the track

half the time,

but it is everything

I'm talking about.

Okay.

You're back.

Did you need to make a return?

No, no... I was thinking

about your story hour.

I remembered from teaching

that not every kid can come

with their own stuffed toy.

I wanted to donate one.

That is just like you.

So thoughtful.

We're just about to start.

Do you wanna join us?

I'll just listen here.

Of course. You're welcome

to listen any time.

I'm telling you,

if Brianna lived in Denver

we would all be friends.

A new bestie!

The three musketeers.

What if she is my cousin?

What if this is the real Gordon?

I want this so much

for my mother.

Just for your mother, huh?

Oh, hey, can I call you

back later?

Hey!

Hey! I was wondering

when I'd see you.

You get a chance to drive by

those properties I emailed you?

Oh, yeah, the whole morning

got consumed.

Right, working with Brianna.

I... just, I was,

you know, research

on my, our... potential

customer, so...

Mmhmm.

Are you coming in?

- Yes.

- Alright.

Actually I dropped by to say

thank you for walking

me home last night.

We had a little run in

with a snowman last night.

It all happened very fast.

Yeah, it attacked

without warning.

Yeah, I had to fend it off

with my bare hands.

It was terrifying.

Jake is a... is a hero.

Oh...

I'm glad the both

of you survived.

Hey, I noticed your truck

outside had a vet sticker on it.

Did you serve?

Uh... my dad was in the army,

he never stopped talking about

the buddies he made in basic.

Where did you do your training?

Uh, Kansas.

But that was a long time ago?

Uh... cookie?

Whoa, no!

I am so sorry.

You know what?

I've got this, don't worry.

Oh look! One that didn't break.

Five second rule?

Sorry. Doctor's orders.

Oh.

So, are you determined

to just destroy this office

or every office that you come

in contact with?

I, uh... I warned you.

Plus, I did bring cookies.

To make fun of me.

To make you smile.

Uh, so, uh... that stuff

with Brianna...

does that mean that you're

staying til tomorrow?

'Cause there's a bunch of us

we are gonna head up

to the lake tonight and

watch the meteor shower.

I could pick you up

if you wanted to come?

Sure.

Yeah, it sounds fun.

I'll see you later then.

Yeah.

Thank you for these.

Yeah.

- Those little faces.

- They just light up.

Especially this time of year,

so much magic.

Do you miss teaching?

I didn't when I retired.

But Henry and I had

such big plans.

Now, I just feel kind

of rudderless.

You know, the store has

a tradition

leading up to Christmas Eve.

We partner with a local shelter

and read to children

who don't have a traditional

home over Christmas.

For a long time, growing up,

I didn't have a traditional home

at Christmas.

I lived in a children's home

called Braithwaite.

We need readers.

You might be the perfect person

for these kids.

Closing papers on

the Schollander cabin.

We are scheduled to start

right after Christmas.

You did a good job

in this last sale.

Thank you.

Fact is, bringing you

into Timber Grove

was one of the smartest things

I ever did.

Actually, you know, there are

a few new ideas

that I kinda wanted

to run past you.

Well, I'm pretty happy

how we're doing things now.

But I would like to talk to you

about something.

What's that?

I'm... I'm not one to pry

into your personal life,

so you can just tell me

it's none of business

and I'll shut up.

Okay.

But I think you really like this

Hayley girl.

And if you do...

I'd really hate to see you

just let that go by.

She lives in Denver, right?

I learned the hard way

that uprooting myself

for someone else

doesn't work out.

I'm not convinced that's what's

holding you back.

I know you got hurt big time

but at some point you've got

to decide to try again.

It's not that easy.

Life isn't easy.

Take that from someone

who came up the hard way.

And so... love isn't easy.

But it's the one thing

that makes life worth living.

You invited her up to

the lake tonight, right?

I was being polite.

She's your client.

Come on.

You were smiling at that gal

like your jaw was gonna bust.

How long are you gonna keep

your heart shut up?

Even if I was ready

to open my heart...

To her, I'm just

a construction guy.

Something wrong with that?

Jake...

she brought you cookies.

In my day that was a date.

Hmm.

Maybe it's time to take

a risk, huh?

Hey, I can't talk long,

I'm gonna check out a meteor

shower with Jake.

What?

Wait a minute, now you're going

stargazing with this guy?

It's not like that.

And besides...

Besides what?

Well, I mean, he is kinda fun.

This is like pulling teeth.

Who is this guy?

What does he look like?

Is he cute?

Is he smart? Funny?

Okay Sarah, we just met

a day ago.

But he is tall, dark

and handsome.

Always a good start.

And he makes me laugh.

Even better.

Okay, but back to Gordon,

because I do have news.

Gordon was in the army

in Kansas.

Why didn't you just ask him

then and there

if he had a sister named

Patricia?

Because you were right.

When I first came here

I thought I was just doing this

for my mom, but...

now the stakes seem

so much higher

and I could see what it would

be like to have more family.

You really like these people,

don't you?

I really do.

What if it turns out Gordon

is not really your uncle?

Yeah, I'm trying not to think

about that right now.

You need to ask him, Hayles.

I know.

Are you still open?

I was just closing up

but come in, come in.

For your Christmas reading

program for disadvantaged kids.

Oh.

I thought maybe you could use

more books?

This is so generous of you,

Patricia.

Let's put them in the hands

of children who need them.

They're not doing anyone

any good stored in my garage.

Shall we put them out

so the kids can find them?

Yes. Yes, let's do that.

This is fantastic!

Oh, my goodness.

Look at this.

Ha!

I've always loved Christmas.

How about this Christmas...

how you doing?

To be honest, it's been awful.

So sorry, Patricia.

Henry was my whole world

and now I have to create a whole

new world for myself.

Any ideas on what that might be?

I need to find a sense

of purpose again.

Your reading program

feels like a baby step

but in the right direction.

So, I take it you'd like

to be a reader?

Yes, I would.

Very much.

So, meteor shower.

Yeah. It's the last

no moon night of the year

which is when it's best

to view them.

There's a bunch every

hour til, oh, 5:00 AM.

I'm staying up til 5:00 AM?

I'm game if you are.

Silver Valley is definitely

showing off.

Is that why you're

sticking around?

Actually your pal Brianna's

making it impossible to leave.

She's gonna make my next

project amazing.

Alright.

There you go.

We're all ready.

Should be any minute.

We're ready!

Yeah, I don't know.

I don't see anything.

It's all dark and...

Oh... wow.

Isn't that beautiful?

I've never seen anything

like it.

Come here.

What?

You've got snowman

cookie icing on your hat.

Of course, I do.

How is that possible?

How did it get there?

You really have to make a mess

out of everything, don't you?

Hey, so... do you wanna

hang out tomorrow?

After you get the drawings

from Brianna, or...

do you have to, like...

head back?

Yes.

Yes, you have to head back

or yes, you want to hang out.

Yes, I... I would like

to hang out tomorrow.

Hey, so I think there's

a hot cider stand around

here somewhere,

I could go get us a couple.

- This one is on me.

- No.

- Yes!

- No, no!

Not a chance!

- Stay here, I'll be back.

- Alright.

I hear we're a lot alike.

Oh?

You built your business

from scratch

and I built mine two years ago

definitely from scratch.

Please, have a seat.

Can I ask what made

you take the leap?

Well, I guess I finally found

something in this world

I was good at.

How about you?

Oh, I went the traditional

route.

College design program,

worked for a big designer

and then I started

my own business.

Who's idea was that?

My dad's.

Nice.

He's been gone now six months.

I'm sorry.

Just me and my mom now.

My dad didn't have siblings.

I always wanted more family.

Did you ever feel like that?

It's hard when the ones we

think will always be there

are taken from us.

Families torn apart

by circumstance.

Did that happen to you?

Yes.

When I lost my wife,

Brianna's mom.

Oh, I'm... I'm sorry.

I guess we have that

in common too.

Surviving parent and only child.

Were you an only child, Gordon?

I didn't really have anyone.

No brothers or sisters?

No.

Oh. That's too bad.

Ah, I'm sorry.

Um... I told Jake

that I was gonna grab us

some hot cider, so...

Of course.

It was good to see you.

It was very nice to see

you again.

Hey! That took longer

than...

Oh! I'm sorry...

- Are you okay?

- I just couldn't. I just...

Hey, did something happen?

No, it's fine.

I just... yes.

The thing that I was hoping

for just...

The truth is...

The reunion I was planning...

Isn't real.

You haven't looked

at any properties

and your stories have been

a little vague on details.

There was a reunion I was

planning, I was hoping for

but it's just... it's just

not gonna happen.

Okay.

Can we just head back?

Yeah.

Yeah, let's go.

I, uh... I misled you

and I shouldn't have.

I'm sorry.

No. No harm done,

really.

You know what, I'm...

I'm gonna grab Brianna's designs

in the morning

and then head straight home.

I'll admit, I was looking

forward to hanging out tomorrow.

Yeah, I just...

I just think it's better

that I leave.

Hayley...

I like you. A lot.

I like you. A lot.

I just... it's complicated.

Can I help?

Is there... something I can do?

Jake, you are such

an amazing guy

and I'm... I'm so lucky

to meet you but I just,

I can't do this right now.

- I'm sorry.

- Ok.

Goodnight.

Goodnight.

Yeah.

Hey.

Jake said you made the decision

to go a little abruptly.

Oh... I'm... I'm sorry,

I should've...

I just wanted to say...

the first Christmas is so hard.

I remember feeling so lost.

No matter how old you are,

losing a parent makes you feel

so small and alone.

So if that's why you're going,

I know what you're going through

and you can call me any time.

Do you mind?

No, of course.

- Yeah?

- Yeah.

Oh, wow.

These are even better

than I imagined.

Really?

Yeah. Elevated and stylish.

I can use this desk and chair

as a centerpiece in my room.

Get out.

And the showcase posts the names

of the artisans in every room.

You are gonna get so much

traffic from this.

It's Mrs. Peterson.

Mrs. Peterson, hi.

I am actually here

with a wonderful new

furniture designer.

Wh... What was that?

Err... but I thought... Oh...

What happened?

The showcase got this big

name designer to do a room

but he would only do it

if he could have the study.

Wait. They... they fired you?

No... they gave me

the hallway.

It's a... small mudroom

at the back of the house.

But, I guess, I only got

the study in the first place

'cause there wasn't any more

established names available.

Hey... stop.

It's not right, what she did.

But you'll design the heck

out of this space.

Anybody can decorate a study.

But when you make

hay outta this,

everyone will remember

who you are.

And Merry Christmas to all.

Perfect.

How come you're such

a good helper?

When I was your age I lived

at a place called Braithwaite.

I had a teacher who read

Christmas stories to us.

She helped us learn to write

by writing Christmas cards.

So when I grew up,

I became a teacher

so I could help kids learn

how to read and write.

I want to be a teacher too!

I'm gonna get another book.

What a gift you are to them.

No, it's they who've

given me the gift.

I was so wrapped up

in being sad.

Well, of course you were.

It's only natural.

But Hayley was right, I needed

to get out of the house.

Being here with these children,

it's given me back a sense

of purpose.

- Where do you want this?

- Yeah, just right over here.

Okay.

Oh, I can't believe

how great it is

to work on a project

with someone else.

Running your own business

is so...

- Like being an only child.

- Lonely.

Yeah.

Hey... I'm not the story.

Yes, you are.

And if you want people

to know you, you have to...

Wait, I have an idea.

What are you doing?

We are going live.

- We are?

- Uh-huh.

Can you even do that from here?

As long as Sarah's free

to run it.

I am a complete beginner.

Oh, so was I.

Jump in feet first.

Sarah's in. Are you?

I guess.

Yeah!

Here we go.

Ready? Great.

Live in three... two...

Hey everyone, it's Hayley Brandt

coming to you

from Meadowlark Designs here

in Silver Valley, Colorado.

We're working together

to design a room

for Mrs. Peterson's designer

showcase house,

where you can support a great

cause and see work

from incredible designers like

my new friend Brianna here.

Now, you know what to do.

Say bye to everyone.

Merry Christmas!

That was so much fun.

Oh, and you are about

to get really busy.

Meadowlark Designs,

this is Brianna.

Who wants to go tree shopping?

Yes, that does come

in other colors.

Hayley. Unfinished business?

Uh, you could say that.

Jake, I don't think I'm going

tree shopping.

Um... this is unbelievable.

What am I gonna do?

You're gonna stay here and keep

answering that phone.

And since your livestream

is responsible...

Oh, you saw that?

Oh, I...

You could make it up to me

by going Christmas tree shopping

in Brianna's place.

Deal.

- Go.

- Okay.

Wait a minute, you don't have

a Christmas tree yet?

Are you just doing the math

on that now?

It's just, it's December 7th.

You seriously don't have a tree?

No, I don't.

Okay, well we are gonna

fix that.

Yes, we are.

That's actually why

we're here, so...

What do you think of this?

Ah, it's a little small.

- Yeah.

- Yeah.

Yeah.

So, was construction always

your thing?

I had no clue that this was

gonna be my future.

I feel really lucky actually

to have found Gordon

and Timber Grove.

Hmm...

Yeah, before you said

he saved you.

Yeah, I was a bit of a wild kid,

I guess.

I felt like I never really

fit in anywhere, so...

So...

Well... after college I got

into a relationship

and moved to Chicago and when

the relationship blew up,

my life kinda collapsed, so...

I came home and joined

Gordon's construction crew.

He saw how hard I

was working and...

kinda took me under his wing.

Well, he seems pretty great.

He can be tough

but it's because he sees

something in you.

Now you're his right-hand man.

Yup. I mean, we do have

our differences, you know.

I wanna move the business

forward

with the stuff you're

really good at.

You know, creative promotions,

social media,

but Gordon doesn't see it.

Well, it's just another way

for people to get to know you

and your story.

Exactly! Yes.

- You really love your work.

- So do you.

I guess we both just have big

visions for how things could go.

Yeah.

I think I found the one.

Tree. What do you think?

Oh, right. Yes.

- That is the one.

- Yeah.

Wow. This isn't on the Timber

Grove website.

Nope.

I'm still renovating it.

I love it.

You did all this?

Well, with a lot of help

off hours

with the Timber Grove crew.

But yeah, I've been working

on it for a while.

It's almost finished.

Obviously, I still need

some furniture.

I thought you were living here?

I am but it's also doing

double duty as a prototype.

I'm hoping that this will be

the company's new direction.

You see the future.

I see the future.

Open, airy, glass...

Of course, this sculpture.

Yeah, of course, I remember it.

Sort of a... a symbol

for the company.

So, has Gordon seen this place?

Nope, not since I started

the interior.

What if he sees all the work

you've done

and he's just not interested

in changing?

Well, then...

I guess I just built a really

big house of my own.

Right.

And a house of my own

needs a Christmas tree,

so what do you say we go grab

that tree and get it decorated?

Yes.

So cute!

I totally should've gone

through these

before inviting you over.

No, I'm leaving.

I never would've seen your tree.

Well, you say you're leaving

but you never go.

Okay, I mean to.

I have to... tomorrow.

I think Silver Valley

has won you over.

Everybody gets sucked back in.

Like you did?

Well... that's different.

Brianna and Gordon...

I owe them a lot.

You're lucky to have each other.

Yeah.

You have a train for your tree?

Oh, right.

Yeah, that's taken a real

beating over the years.

Wow.

I think... yeah.

I'm missing a caboose.

- What?

- Yeah.

The best car.

In the movies all

the important stuff

happens around the caboose.

Chases.

Tearful goodbyes.

Reunions.

The heart is in

that little red car.

Hmm. I never thought of it

like that.

So... you're heading back

to Denver tomorrow?

Yup. After I see Brianna

in the morning.

I don't know...

I don't know when I'll be back.

Thank you so much for helping me

with the tree and...

Oh yeah. Um... sure.

And you have my email

if you wanna...

Okay.

Okay, um...

I'll grab my coat.

Okay.

I wish you could stay for

the fundraiser tonight, but...

I understand.

Well, we will celebrate

after the showcase.

Oh shoot.

I must've left my snowflake hat

at the thing the other night.

Oh, yeah.

Take the access road to the

highway, you'll pass the lake,

it's on your way.

Where are you headed?

Oh, to the model cabin.

Gotta finish decorating

for tonight.

Well, I hope you and your dad

have a Merry Christmas.

Same to you and your mom.

Oh, no.

Hm. Let's see.

Ah, there you are.

Hayley!

Hey! Hey, I came back

to get my hat.

You're just out here walking

in this cold?

Have a seat.

Enjoy the fresh air.

Ah...

This really is a beautiful town.

I can see why you found

yourself here.

Oh, you'll be back.

You and Brianna are gonna

take the design world by storm.

And Jake obviously likes you.

Yeah, I don't know about Jake.

Well, if you're interested...

be a little patient.

I'm not known for my patience.

I get it.

But you know who you are.

And I suspect you always have.

It's been a bit of a longer

road for Jake.

He's still finding himself.

But he's...

he's doing it on his own.

Sounds like you know

something about that.

I never really had a guide

in my life.

But it sounds like you've been

really lucky in your upbringing.

I was.

Gordon, I... have

a confession.

When I came here I had

this crazy idea.

It was far-fetched really,

that you were...

Gordon?

Gordon? Gordon!

No. Gordon...

Hang on, hang on!

Hang on just a second.

I'll get help. Okay.

I need an ambulance.

Hayley!

Thank God you were here.

I... I... I can't imagine

what would've happened.

Is he okay?

I don't know, they haven't said.

The doctor should be out

in a few minutes.

Come... sit.

Renton family?

Thank you, Hayley.

Someone wants to see you.

My guardian angel.

You look a lot better

than when I last saw you.

Thanks to you.

Hey doc, you ready

to check me out?

Not so fast.

From what Hayley said

when they brought you in,

you had a low blood

pressure event.

I just bent down

to pick up my gloves.

Well, if your head was anywhere

close to being below your heart

it can trigger low

blood pressure.

And given your previous

heart attack,

we're keeping you in a little

longer to adjust your meds.

I can't!

My fundraiser's tonight.

You wanna go to a party?

I can't disappoint the kids.

Look, I... I promise

to take it easy

and I'll keep my head

above my heart.

Come on, doc. Please.

If your numbers stay solid and

we can adjust your meds in time.

Then I'm trusting you.

Okay. Thanks doc.

Hey.

How are you doing, Gordon?

I hear the fundraiser

is still on for tonight?

- Absolutely it's still on.

- Great.

Okay, yeah, about that.

We have a problem.

The heat is off

in the model cabin,

the pipes are frozen and there's

water everywhere.

You mean you need another place

to hold the party tonight?

Jake... has a place

that you could...

Oh, just the cabin

I've been working on.

I mean, it's not quite

finished yet,

so I don't know if we could...

It's not just a cabin.

It is a beautiful space

that you have to see

and it'd be perfect for tonight.

Okay. We'll do it there.

Alright.

I'll blast out an email to

the guests with Jake's address.

Great.

What did you just do?

It's the ideal opportunity.

You'll save the day for Gordon.

What's the problem?

Well, the problem is maybe

I wasn't ready

and you just volunteered me.

It's a remarkable space and...

if Gordon's open to expanding

the business at all,

tonight is the night

to show it off.

And if not then

I've just blown my shot.

Yeah, you're...

you're absolutely right.

I'm... I'm sorry, I should've

asked you first.

Since you volunteered me...

you can help me present it

in its best light.

You mean stage it for you

by tonight?

You've got seven hours.

You up for it?

You have no idea who you're

dealing with.

Okay. Let's go get my jacket.

So we'll do a donation table

along the side here.

And then conversation spaces

over here and here.

A couple tall tables

for drinks there.

And of course, more

holiday decorations.

Right. You think we can get

all of that done?

A beautiful space

for party guests

to donate all their money

with a holiday vibe in...

six hours and 35 minutes?

You bet.

- Yeah.

- Mmhmm.

You know what to do.

I do not know what to do.

Do you?

No clue.

Okay, so I'll...

Wow. I'm not gonna lie,

you're really good at this.

I just need a few more

small candles

so I'm gonna head back

into town, see what I can find.

Okay. Great.

Hey listen, I just wanted

to say I was...

a little upset before

and I'm sorry about that.

You only get one shot.

I heard you.

I just wanna make it the best

shot possible, right?

Right.

Also I, um...

I wanna make Silver Valley

a place I come back to,

if that's something...

Yeah. That's...

Hey, you two.

I could use a little help

in here.

Alright, what's going on

in here?

Oh, these are all candy

cane cookies.

They're the only ones

my dad likes to eat.

They come out the easiest

and you can hang them

off your finger

when you eat them.

My mom always said that.

My dad is obsessed.

Your... your dad had a heart

attack before today.

It must've been so scary.

I was with him when it happened

four years ago.

It was... terrifying.

I've been trying to get him

to scale back

but he's so stubborn and

protective of his business.

I guess it makes sense

after having such a rough start

in life.

Yeah, he mentioned that.

He was in foster care and...

never got adopted.

I just want him to enjoy

his golden years.

Foster care?

He doesn't like to talk

about it.

But I wish he'd let

Jake partner with him

and then take over Timber Grove.

Yeah, that would be

the ideal solution.

Jake knows the business

inside and out

and he'd be perfect for it.

Alright, well I am gonna

head into town.

Can you think of anything

else we need?

No, you have already thought of

everything else.

Alright.

- Alright Jake, you're up.

- Okay.

Who wants to party?

Hey Dad.

Welcome.

Oh... decent feel.

Very airy.

You'll take a hit on

your heating costs

with those high ceilings

and all that glass though.

Well, there's extra insulation,

energy efficient thermostats,

lights, security...

and it can all be controlled

remotely from a phone.

And of course...

the heart of the home.

It wouldn't be a Timber Grove

cabin without it.

Spectacular.

Truly, it's... it's...

it's spectacular.

Well done, Jake.

Thanks Gordon.

Now, how about a drink?

Wow.

You look... lovely.

You like it?

I do.

You were right.

Silver Valley worked its magic

on me.

Why? You thinking of sticking

around... again?

I just can't seem to leave

no matter how hard I try.

Dance with me.

This is...

You go.

No, you go.

Don't worry about it.

I was just...

I was gonna say...

I can't believe what you did

with this place.

It's better than I ever

could've dreamt.

It was easy.

I believe in you.

Are you sure you gotta

go tomorrow?

May I have your

attention please.

Welcome.

Thank you for taking time out

of your holiday season.

All of your efforts will help

Braithwaite's mission

to pair foster kids with homes

for the holidays.

And, of course, the times

in between.

Did you say Braithwaite?

That's what this fundraiser

is for?

Yes.

All this time you've been

raising money for Braithwaite?

Hayley!

Hayley, stop.

Was she too much of a burden

to straight up abandon her

and let her believe...

Let who believe?

Who are you?

Patricia Renton's daughter.

Patricia?

The sister you left

at Braithwaite

and never came back for.

Did she... did she

send you?

No. She doesn't know anything

about this.

And I'm glad now that I see

what kind of person you are.

What kind of a person

pretends to rent a cabin

just to get close to people?

You know, you could've asked.

Instead you just lied.

You said, "I don't have

any siblings" right to my face

but you did.

And you broke her heart.

What's the bigger lie, huh?

Dad? What's going on?

Go back inside.

I'm fine.

My mother Patricia is amazing.

She is the kindest, best,

biggest-hearted woman I know.

You said you had no one.

But you had her...

and you just left her.

I'm sorry.

Thank you for everything.

I have to go.

Dad, who's Patricia?

What is going on?

Patricia...

Patricia is my sister.

Dad, can we please

talk about this?

There's nothing to talk about.

I made a decision

a long time ago

that I honestly thought

was the right thing to do.

What about Hayley?

Hayley left.

We gotta move on.

Move on from family?

Look, I don't expect you

to understand.

But I need you to respect

my decision.

You kept family from me, Dad.

Look, Brianna...

There's stuff about your past

you don't wanna talk about...

Fine, that's your choice.

But you chose for me too.

Goodnight Dad.

Then she gave me the mudroom.

I'm gonna make the best

of it, but...

You are.

You always do.

But something more than work

is going on, isn't it?

I'm just happy to be home

with you.

That's what family does,

stick together,

especially during the holiday.

And the place looks...

beautiful.

What changed?

Well, I finally figured out

you were right.

Staying home and mourning

didn't alter the fact

your father was gone.

When I started volunteering,

some of that pain began to lift.

I needed a push

and you gave me one.

When I was little I used

to write a Christmas card

to Gordon every year.

But this year I wrote a new one.

It won't reach him...

but I finally feel like

I've closed the door

on him being gone.

So... thanks for helping me

do that.

I can't believe it.

When they took away the study

and gave me this room

I was so upset.

It's called turning a lemon

into lemonade.

Life is so funny, isn't it?

This was so much more

challenging than the study

and so much more fun.

I told you you'd knock

it out of the park.

- You ready?

- Let's do this.

Hey everyone.

Hayley Brandt coming to you

live with advanced peeks

from Mrs. Peterson's designer

showcase house.

I can't show you the whole room,

you'll have to wait

until opening day,

but I can tell you I have never

been prouder of any design

I've worked on.

And just wait until you see

the incredible furniture

I've included from Brianna

Renton at Meadowlark Designs

located in beautiful

Silver Valley.

If you like what you see

I'd love to hear from you.

Merry almost Christmas, friends.

Brianna.

Can we stop pretending

nothing happened?

I hope Santa makes all

your wishes come true.

Merry Christmas Eve.

Your mother's really made

these kids' holiday.

I think that maybe

they've made hers.

Want a teddy bear?

Patricia? Patricia.

We're about to lose

a staff member.

Our community partnership

person is leaving

at the first of the year.

- Merry Christmas.

- Oh...

Now can you think of anyone

better for the job

because I certainly can't.

Oh... that's great.

Thank you.

Who's car is that?

Mom, there's something

I need to tell you.

Um... uh, the reason

that I went to Silver Valley

wasn't for furniture.

Patricia.

Gordon?

That's what I was trying to say.

What?

Hayley found me.

She found all of us.

This is your niece.

Brianna Renton.

And this is Jake Pierce,

my business partner.

Could we, uh...

I got in a lot of trouble

after I aged out.

I knew if I was a part of your

life, no one would adopt you.

I didn't care about that.

I only wanted to be with you.

I could barely take care

of myself.

How could I take care

of an 11-year-old?

At my hearing a judge

gave me a choice...

Jail or the military...

and I enlisted.

You could've found me after.

All these years I thought

you must've died

or you would've come back

for me.

I am so sorry.

I thought I was doing

the right thing.

And I did...

I did come find you.

I learned that you had been

adopted by a wonderful family

and I didn't wanna screw

that up.

And I thought after

all this time

you wouldn't wanna

see me anyway.

I did.

I always did.

I missed you so much in my life.

And I have missed you.

Will you stay?

Spend some of the holiday

with Hayley and me.

Absolutely.

Thank you.

I hear you're a wonderful

furniture designer.

Thanks.

Best in Colorado.

Look Dad, peppermint candy cane

cookies, your favorite.

Old family recipe.

Maybe we could have some

for dessert.

Perfect.

I wanted to call.

Me too.

But the way I handled

things, I...

No, you did what you needed

to do.

But the thing between us...

that felt real.

A smart man made me realize

that closing myself off

was a terrible way to live.

And you listened to him?

So, if, uh... you're gonna be

working with Brianna

and you and your mom wanna

spend more time with Gordon...

and the distance between

Denver and Silver Valley

won't seem so far, if you

know... you're interested.

It's about time.

It's time for dinner!

I have something for you.

This is the last Christmas card

I wrote to you

after you disappeared.

And this is the one I wrote

to you this year.

After Hayley started asking

questions about you,

I never thought I'd be able

to give it to you in person.

And I'm so very grateful

that I can.

Oh...

One second.

I wrote one by hand every year.

I never sent them to you

but I thought about you

and I missed you

every Christmas.

To family.

To family.

Merry Christmas.