A Gift to Cherish (2019)

[bunniefuu]

This program is rated G

and is suitable for
general audiences.

Carrie, there's a box
of returns in the back.

Can you strip the covers?

I already took care of it.

Of course you did, thank you.

Barbara Kirkland's agent
should be calling

about Christmas Eve, can you
confirm her hotel for me?

No problem.

I've got Saturday story
time at the rec center but,

I'll be back to
cover your lunch.

Thanks, Darcy!

I'll see you soon Bailey,
be a good boy.

[dog barks]

-Oh, wow...
-Little more to the left...

Mrs. Henley,
those halls are decked.

Well you hired me
to decorate the store

and I take my job
very seriously.

Now, Matthew here has
specific instructions.

And I'll be back
on Wednesday morning

to install the
five golden rings.

Wow, you're trusting Matthew

with the windows for the
three days, I'm impressed.

You know, she's still going
to drive by and check my work.

That's true, I will.

So when does your nephew
get into town?

His train gets in at 2:30,
I am so excited!

I'm his favorite aunt, you know.

How could you not be?

We have a very
special surprise today.

We are going to combine
story time with art class.

Ms. Archer here is going
to read a little story to us,

and then she's going
to help us make these.

-Mr. Harris?
-Yes, Isabella.

Is Ms. Archer your girlfriend?

[children wooing and giggling]

You know, you can
be friends with someone

without being
boyfriend and girlfriend.

Yes, sir.

So, is she your girlfriend?

Yes, she is.

[children wooing]

So, are you going
to get married?

All right, well take
it away Ms. Archer!

Okay...

Mrs. Henley's brother
is in the air force

and his wife is
an army translator.

Her deployment got moved up
before his ended,

and Mrs. Henley is
the family's care plan,

so her nephew, Marcus, is
spending the holidays with her.

It's gotta be hard for a kid.

Spending the holidays
without his parents?

I know.

You know, I'm picking
up some volunteer shifts

while school is out.

Maybe he could hang out with me?

I'm sure Mrs. Henley
would appreciate that.

Aiden, Darcy.

Oh, hi Glenda!

I wanted you to meet Susan.

She and her husband just
moved into my building,

and she's already signed up
for the bingo tournament.

Watch out, those bingo
players mean business.

[laughing]

Darcy and Aiden
both volunteer for us.

Aiden teaches art classes
and Darcy leads our story time.

Darcy's been coming here
since she was a little girl.

Is that so?

Everything I know about
basketball and crafting,

I learned at the
Liberty Rec Center.

Oh that's wonderful, my
grandkids will love coming here.

We look forward
to meeting them.

-Bye.
-Buh-bye.

I thought you said you
were terrible at basketball.

I am - I learned that here.

So we still on for decorating
your tree tonight?

Oh, you bet!

We got your place
ready for Christmas,

now I need to catch up.

Thanks for today,
by the way.

I know how busy you
are this time of year.

Oh Aiden, a room full
of paper snowflakes,

makes my heart melt.

Marcus, I wish you
would let me help you

with one of those bags.

It's okay Aunt Monica,
I've got it.

Okay, well we can drop
these at my apartment

and then go do something fun.

You could see the tree
at City Hall.

Maybe later.

Okay, you've had a long trip.

We could just stay in,
let you get settled.

Cool.

Hi, this is Darcy Archer
from Chaucer's Bookstore.

I've been trying to speak to
someone about a donation drive

we're doing at the Liberty Rec
Center, and I wanted to...

Well, yes, it's kind of a thing
all the businesses

in the area are doing,
so I was hoping...

Right.

Well, thanks anyway.

Something wrong?

Books Books Books
won't participate

in the donation drive!

I know they're our competition
but, it seems like we should

all work together
for a good cause, right?

I think you're better off
without them.

I have a friend
who worked there.

She said when you order
a 12-ounce hot chocolate,

they only give you nine ounces,
then cover the rest

with whipped cream
so you don't notice.

That is so sneaky!

I don't know how those
people sleep at night.

Marcus?

You need help unpacking?

No, ma'am.

Want something to eat?

I'm not really that hungry
right now.

Are you sure?
I made macaroni and cheese

and your mom says that
that's your favorite.

No, I'm good.

Sure.

But I'm going to
make you a plate.

Just in case you
change your mind.

Thanks.

Okay.

[door knocking]

Hi! Hi Bailey!

Somebody order a pizza
and a big bag of Christmas?

Me!

[dog barks]

You excited about your
checkup tomorrow?

Are people normally excited
to visit their doctors?

Well, let me see.

A year ago you banged your head
and lost your memory

when someone hit you
on their bicycle.

"Someone" hit me?

Well that part's...
not important.

Except that someone turned out

to be the best thing
that ever happened to me.

When you put it like that,
I guess it is important.

So maybe this visit to the
neurologist is more like...

A victory lap.

Precisely!

In that case,
I'm very excited.

Oh, did you find that
other box of decorations?

No, but I did find
this in the closet.

It says Christmas village?

I don't put that out.

Oh, okay.

Should I put it back?

You could just,
leave it off to the side

and I'll take care of it later.

Cool.

Just a keepsake of my mom's.

So it's like, a
decoration or something?

You know what?

I'm just going to go ahead
and put it away now.

Okay, the Christmas village
is kind of a thing.

Do you want to talk about it?

Yes.

I would like to
share this with you.

So, my mother was from a
small town in Maine, and,

she wasn't able to
get home very often.

So, my dad was this
amazing woodworker.

Every few years, she never
knew quite when to expect it,

he would make her a building
from her hometown,

working from photos.

That way, she always had
a little piece of home.

That's beautiful.

Like this.

The South Dublin Public Library
where Lauren Armstrong

first discovered
"Pride and Prejudice."

And she was forever changed.

Mmm-hmm.

I have so many little reminders
from my parents,

but this...

This is them.

Everything I loved and admired
about their relationship,

the respect they had for
each other's histories,

everything that made them
who they were.

They sound like an
incredible couple.

I guess I tried
to keep this memory

just to myself, to...

I don't know, protect it?

Until I met you, and I wanted
you to know them better.

Well, that say that
memories grow stronger

when you share them.

-That is very wise.
-Thank you.

Unfortunately I cannot
take the credit,

that was advice
from my neurologist.

Sleep well, baby boy.

Okay, so I'll meet you
at the hospital at 3?

You know it's just a checkup,
so if you're too busy,

I completely understand.

Victory lap, remember?

I do remember.

And that's what makes it
a victory lap.

Darcy, Aiden, thank goodness
I caught you two.

Are you okay?

I could be better, how do
you talk to an 11 year old?

Mrs. Henley, I ask myself
that question every day.

Marcus hasn't said two words
since he got here.

He's had a lot thrown
at him all at once.

Maybe just give him some time?

Maybe we could
think of something fun

we could all do together?

Oh, that's a great idea!

Do you ice skate, Mrs. Henley?

I'm a dancer!

They never let us near the ice.

Hi!

Oh, well look who's up.

You have a dog!

Hi!

Marcus, these are my friends.

This is Miss Archer.

-Hi.
-Hi.

And Mr. Harris.

-Very nice to meet you.
-Nice to meet you.

And this, this is Bailey.

[dog barks]

Hi, Bailey.

You know, we were just
about to go for a little walk.

Would you two like to join us?

Can we, Aunt Monica?

Of course!
Go get dressed.

Yes!

Thank you, thank you Bailey.

It's such a relief
to see Marcus smiling.

I really want to try and make
this Christmas special for him.

I wish I had not decorated
my tree already.

Your tree's been up
since Thanksgiving.

And this is the first time
I wish I had waited.

Whoa!

That's a big tree...

That's a Liberty Rec Center
Christmas tree.

Everyone from the neighborhood
brings an ornament,

and we all decorate it together.

We can come help if you like.

Yeah, I can do that.

There's our favorite nurse.

Aiden and Darcy!

Hi Nancy!

What are you guys doing here?

One year checkup!

-A year already!
-Hard to believe, huh?

And he passed
with flying colors.

And work is going well?
No cause for concern?

No, everything's great.

Love my school,
love my new apartment.

Nancy, are you checking
my pupils right now?

I'm sorry!

Force of habit.

Darcy, be honest:
how's his memory?

He remembers everything
except where he puts his keys.

Well then,
you're officially doing

as well as the
rest of us, Aiden.

Nancy, will we see you at
Chaucer's on Christmas Eve?

It's my new tradition.

You know, you guys are legendary
at the department of neurology.

Is that so?

Absolutely! It's how
I reassure my patients.

The bad news, you
have a concussion.

But the good news, you
might meet somebody nice.

Great to see you.

-Bye guys!
-Bye.

[holiday music]

Darcy, Aiden, over here!

Hi!

Bailey!

Hi!

We really are just
Bailey's people, aren't we?

Are you just realizing that now?

So, Marcus and I went through

all of my extra ornaments
this afternoon

and came up with
the perfect selections.

In my art class, I made
these bird seed ornaments.

Ooooh!

So the birds can have
a Merry Christmas too?

That's the idea.

What do you think Marcus,
should we find it a spot?

Yeah!

[Crowd]
Three... two... one...

[cheering and applauding]

Whoa!

[dog barks]

Wow!

I'm sorry Darcy wasn't
able to join us for dinner.

Oh well, like she said,
the store being too busy

for her to leave is a
pretty good problem to have.

That's true.

So you never knew about
this Christmas village?

Well, I had seen it of course.

But Darcy only ever told me
that her father made it.

I never heard the story.

The attention to detail.

I can see why she
loved it so much.

But she shared
the story with you.

Which is a wonderful
step forward.

[front door opens]

Ah, here we are!

Oh Marcus,
you are in for a treat!

Oh, Luigi my love,
that looks divine!

Darcy!

-Glenda, hi!
-Darcy, I'm sorry.

I didn't know who else
to talk to.

I took a walk to cool my head
and before I knew it,

I was here.

What happened, what's wrong?

You're not going to like this...

So, Aiden here is trying
to come up with ways

to bring Darcy a little
extra joy this Christmas.

Bravo! Very good!

I don't know anyone who
helps others more than Darcy.

Okay, well thanks guys
for adding the pressure.

Aiden, you're a
marvelous artist.

Why don't you just
make her something?

How about you make
a second village?

What do you mean?

Well, how about
a Christmas village

with all of her favorite places?

That way, the other one
won't be as bittersweet,

and will kind of fit together.

Huh!

That's actually not a bad idea.

It's a marvelous idea, Marcus!

A companion village.

Yeah, and it's fitting
if you think about it.

I mean last year,
Darcy moved heaven and earth

to help me restore my memories.

This year, I'll honor hers.

[exclaims happily]

[door closing]

[Mrs. Henley]
Darcy, you made it.

You okay?

No.

They're shutting down
the Liberty Rec Center.

I can't believe that they
would sell a rec center.

Shouldn't there be some kind of

a city council vote,
or something?

That property has been
in David Pierce's family

for three generations.

I can't believe
he's selling it!

I've got a lifetime of
memories in that place.

My first dance class
was at Liberty Rec!

I took my English lessons there.

And the Christmas party,
oh Aiden!

It's the best.

Something must be done.

Why don't you
just talk to him?

When was the last time
you saw David Pierce

at the rec center?

He has a real estate
office downtown.

His secretary goes to my church.

Then we'll go to him.

I know I haven't lived here
as long as you,

but Philly is my home now, too.

I think we need to show
some fight here.

Who's in?

[telephone ringing]

Good morning, Pierce Properties.
This is Sheryl.

Hey Sheryl,

it is Monica Henley
and I need a tiny favor.

And just like that,

we've got an appointment
tomorrow morning.

Never underestimate the power
of Mrs. Henley's connections.

Liberty Rec, help is on the way.

Oh, and speaking of
the Liberty Rec Center,

Chef Shannon needs judges
for a Christmas cookie contest

tomorrow morning for
her kid's baking class

and she thought
we'd be perfect for it.

Are we?

Of course.

You're an art teacher.

You can judge the shape, use
of color, overall aesthetic.

And you?

I just really like cookies.

You're right, we are perfect.

I want to judge a
Christmas cookie contest.

Oh, and what are
your qualifications?

I'm a kid?

-You're hired!
-Yes!

Oh!

[children laughing]

So tell me, what's our
strategy with David Pierce?

I'm still thinking on it.

Say, you don't happen
to have a secret stash

of a whole bunch of money
you've never mentioned before?

That's a very common assumption
about public school teachers.

Unfortunately, no.

Okay then, that means

we're going for
the sentimental vote.

We can work with that.

Can we go see the snow maze?

-Of course!
-Come on!

Tag! You're it!

♪ Christmas music ♪

Marco!

Polo!

Marco!

[loud yelp]

Seniorina!

Your coffee cans!

Oh Luigi, thank you!

Hello, dear.

Monica, mia belleza.

Oh, stop that,
my hands are a mess!

Darcy, I would have happily
brought you some bread pans.

Oh, no, it's gotta
be a coffee can.

That's how Aiden's mother
made it every Christmas.

There's no improving
your mama's model, ah?

Luigi, you can
make yourself useful

by prepping those cans.

So how about you, Mrs. Henley?

Did your mother have a
specialty at Christmas time?

My mother made the only
fruitcake I liked.

I tried to recreate it for years
until I just threw in the towel.

Some magicians just don't
share their secrets.

But ah, the flavor!

Lives in my memory.

So, you can do this right?

Sure going to try.

Man, this is just amazing.

What is?

Well, you know
how people might say

that something you do is just
like your mom or your dad?

Unfortunately, yes.

Okay well, this is
just like that,

but the other way around.

All the attention
and care to detail

in each one of these things,
it's just like Darcy.

Everything I love about her,
now I know where it came from.

And that's amazing.

This is starting to sound
like a mushy love story.

Sorry, kid!

It was bound to
happen eventually.

Mmm, these turned out so great.

Perfecto, Darcy!

Aiden said his mom
used to make these

for all of his teachers.

I thought I'd make a few more,
so he could give them out.

Such a thoughtful gift, ah?

I know how much her
doing that meant to him.

Those little gestures
are always the memories

that stay with us,
don't you think?

I do!

Well, I better get going.

I'm covering the closing
shift at the store.

Thanks for your help,
you two.

Bye!

Bye.

I thought one of those
loaves would be for us.

[door knocking]

-Hey!
-Hi.

Come in.

I have to get to the store.

But I made you a
little something.

Whatcha got there?

You made my mom's bread.

I got the recipe
from your dad.

I know it's not the same, but...

I haven't smelled
that in years.

I never realized
how much I associate

that smell with Christmas.

Darcy, this is wonderful.

Thank you.

You're so very welcome.

It's my first book.

Well congratulations,
that's a big deal!

It's a comprehensive
overview of the creation

and implementation
of the worldwide web.

"A History of
Information Management."

Yep, I went through
so many titles.

Before you landed on that one?

Mmm-hmm.

Well, I admire your
initiative, Mr. Young.

Since I live in
the neighborhood,

I was wondering
if I could have

the signing here at Chaucer's.

I bet we can make
that happen.

Let's look at the calendar

once we make it
through the holidays.

For now, why don't we
start with four copies,

and we'll take it from there.

This is really exciting!

Of course it is,
it's your first book.

Matthew, can you get a
receiving form for Mr. Young?

Of course.

Darcy, sorry I opened
a delivery for you.

I thought it part
of the store shipment.

Oh, let me see.

It's Aiden's Christmas present.

First edition, signed.

I got into a real bidding w*r
for this online.

"Found in the Street."

It's his favorite book,
by his favorite author

and the title is just
too perfect, because...

You met when you
found him in the street.

Precisely.

That's so sweet.

Any idea what he's getting you?

No idea, but I'd like
to see him top this.

Not that it's a competition,
but if it were,

I'd clearly be the frontrunner!

[door knocking]

Coming!

-Good morning!
-Good morning.

Well, we...
brought you breakfast!

Just to check up on you.

Thank you very much.

I wish I had
better news for you.

I think maybe I was a
little overambitious here.

What do you mean?

Well, I'm not really
that experienced

with woodworking turns out.

And with just over a week
until Christmas,

I think I might be able to
finish one of these, maybe.

It's a pretty good start, right?

It's more than enough.

We'll wrap it beautifully
and make it very special.

She'll love it!

But that's not what you wanted.

I know.

And you wanted to build
the entire village.

I did, but, I mean
with just eight days,

when I look at all this work...

What if you had to do it?

Marcus...

Sorry, it's just,

if you had to do it
in eight days,

how would you pull it off?

Actually...

Take a look at this.

Isn't that nice?

So, you're the
world's greatest art teacher?

The father of one of my
students made this for me.

He runs a precision
cutting company.

They make awards and signs
and things like that.

So anyway, what I'm thinking is,

if I can design the buildings

and just have him
cut everything,

than all we need to do
is assemble and paint.

I think we can manage
that in a week.

I knew you could
figure it out.

Of course he
can figure it out.

He's the world's
greatest art teacher,

with a plaque to prove it!

[cell phone ringing]

Oh, this is my baby brother.

Oh Sam, it's so good
to see your face.

Hey, Monica.

Dad!

There's my guy.
What's goin' on?

Well, I'm helping
Aunt Monica's friend

build a whole village.

Wow, sounds like a big job.

Yeah, and I'm judging
a cookie contest.

Oh, and you have to meet
this dog, his name's Bailey.

See? Isn't he precious?

An eggnog flavored
sugar cookie

with a twist of ginger.

A bold choice!

Excellent use of sprinkles.

The snowflake shape really
seals the deal for me.

Interesting, and why is that?

I like it when my food

is shaped like other things,
you know?

Hmm, judge Marcus with
a compelling argument.

-I think we have a winner.
-Yeah, go ahead.

And here you go.

[cheering and applauding]

This place is great.

I'm so glad you think so.

You know, I heard your dad
used to come here

when he was your age.

-Really?
-Mmm-hmm.

This place is that old?

Even older.

Wow.

So, have you been
having fun hanging out

with Aiden and Bailey?

-Yeah.
-Mmm-hmm.

What have you been up to?

That is privileged
information, Darcy.

And you know that!

Is this about my
Christmas present?

Aunt Monica and I
swore to secrecy.

So please, no more
questions, okay?

Mrs. Henley knows
about it, too?

Oh darn, I've said too much.

What is it?
Is it really good?

Am I going to cry?

I can't handle the pressure.

How was the cookie contest?

I think my met my
cookie quota for the season.

I just have to grab my blazer.

Aiden and I have
a meeting downtown.

Hi Darcy.

Hi Pat!

Aiden Harris, this is Pat Young.

-Hi.
-He just wrote his first book.

-Congratulations!
-Thanks.

I brought a few more copies,
just in case you needed them.

I told Mr. Young we still
have those four in stock,

but we will let him know
as soon as we need more.

Great, right.

Well, thank you.

Pat, wait.

You know, sometimes
first time authors just...

Need that extra little push.

Maybe we could
keep a few copies,

put them on display,
maybe make it a staff pick?

That sounds great, Darcy!

Thanks!

Of course.

Are you nervous?

Nope, I'm determined.

Ms. Archer, Mr. Harris,
he'll see you now.

So, just to recap.

On the one hand, I have a
very, very generous offer

that would not only bring new
residential and retail space

to the Northern
Liberty's neighborhood,

but would also free
me of the obligation

of maintaining a century-old
historic building.

On the other hand,
we have your idea.

Which is effectively,
what, exactly?

Umm, don't do that?

So I'd make no money?

No.

And I would still have
to maintain the building?

Yes!

Why would I do that?

Because Liberty Rec Center
is where generations

of our community have
gathered, Mr. Pierce.

And even if you can't
attach a dollar amount

to history and tradition,
it does have value.

I agree.

That's why I hung
onto Liberty Rec

for far longer than it
made any economic sense.

Your interest in the center,
it's appreciated,

and it's very sweet.

Excuse me sir,
but with all due respect,

Darcy's interests
are far from sweet.

She lives and runs a business
in that neighborhood

and because of that,
she volunteers at the center,

she runs a donation drive,

she makes an investment
in her community.

Darcy understands what
really matters here.

And I hope you think about that

while you're off
enjoying the spoils

of your very, very
generous offer.

I'm afraid my answer is no.

Well, we suspected as much.

Thank you for your time.

The Christmas party
is on the 23rd.

Will you wait to announce
the sale until then?

Let everyone enjoy it?

Sure.

Merry Christmas.

Merry Christmas.

[door knocking]

-Hi.
-Hi.

Is Darcy here?

No, she's closing up shop
tonight.

Well...

Luigi made some pasta carbonara,
are you in?

Mrs. Henley, are you
using food as an excuse

to check on my progress again?

I am.

Well then what're you
waiting for, come on in.

Okay, so I'm using a
slightly different type

of wood now, and
a different method.

So, they won't exactly
like her dad's.

Oh, I think that's good.

You're not trying
to recreate a moment

she shared with someone else.

You're taking
inspiration from that,

and making it uniquely yours.

I like that.

[cell phone vibrating]

Excuse me.

Hey there.

Hey!

I just got home, you in?

Yeah, we're here.

Okay great, I'll come down.

No!

No don't do that,
you've had a long day.

How about Bailey and I
come to you?

Yeah, that's fine.

Great!

So, what did you do
with the rest of your day?

I just hung out
with Marcus a bit.

Oh, good!
What did you do?

Wish I could say,
top secret mission.

Mmm, I heard about that.

He actually told me
what you're giving me.

Wow!

You know my sister used to try

to pull that trick
when we were kids.

Didn't work for her, either.

Well whatever it is,

I'm just glad you're able
to include Marcus.

I want him to have
a good Christmas.

Try to keep some
of the traditions

that he has with
his mom and dad.

I thought a lot
about what you said

to David Pierce today,
and it's so true.

Memories are priceless,
but they certainly have value.

Got to find ways
to preserve them.

That's it!

What is?

We might not be able
to buy the Rec Center,

but maybe we could preserve it.

What do you mean?

A century-old historic building,
that's what he called it.

And I think other people
should call it that, too.

I'm not entirely sure
what you're thinking,

but I am 100% on board.
[dog barking]

Apparently, so is Bailey.

May I help you?

We were looking
for Carolyn Cho?

And you found her.

Hi, I'm Darcy Archer, I
called earlier to inquire

about the process of declaring
a historical landmark.

Of course, the
Liberty Rec Center.

That's the one.

And here's the documentation
that you asked for.

Wonderful, we'll take a look.

And have you been in
contact with the owner?

Actually, we were
just in his office but,

he wasn't in yet.

Okay, well we can get
started on the process.

Please, have a seat.

Good morning, Mr. Pierce.

Good morning, Sheryl.

What in the world?

It's a surprise
from the art class

at the Liberty Rec Center.

w
that they're thinking of you.

Uh-huh...

[telephone ringing]

Mom!

Hi, honey!

I miss you so much.

I miss you, too!

We love you Vanessa!

I love you!

Are you having fun
with Aunt Monica?

I'm part of a top
secret organization.

Oh, really?

Well that makes two of us.

♪ ♪ ♪

Does this look like
Mrs. Henley to you?

Yeah, I can see that.

I should do better than a scarf.

I want something
as unique as she is.

So now you're adding
find the perfect Christmas gift

to your list.

What list?

Darcy, you have a list!

You have a very long list,
your list makes me tired.

I just worry sometimes that
maybe you take on too much.

In the past, the holidays
have been a tricky time for me.

But last Christmas,
I was busy helping you,

and applying for a new job,
and things were easier.

So, lesson learned,
got to keep my hands busy.

Is that the lesson?

Clearly you don't think so.

Okay, let me try that again.

-Hi.
-Hi.

I love you.

And if there's
anything that I can do

to make your life
a little bit easier,

I am happy to help.

Thank you.

I'm busy, but not
overwhelmed, I promise.

Okay, but my offer
still stands.

Thank you.
For being you.

I should get back
to the store.

Let me walk you.

No, you're halfway home.

You sure?

Yeah! I'll see you tonight.

Okay.

I have more questions
about the time you had amnesia.

People usually do.

What's the first thing
you remember doing?

The first thing I
remember when I woke up

was asking for Bailey.

That makes a lot of sense.

Bailey's awesome.

Yes, he is.

My dad said I can get a
dog when I'm 12 and a half.

That's very specific.

Well yeah, that's when
his enlistment ends.

Oh, and then we can be

all in the same house,
at the same time.

Well, you know you're
more than welcome

to visit Bailey
whenever you want.

And you're welcome
to come visit my dog

when I'm 12 and a half.

It's a deal.

[door knocking]

It's Darcy!

Cover that up!

I can't, the paint's not dry!

-Hey, sweetheart!
-Hi!

Wow, good to see you too!

What are you doing
home so early?

I forgot my laptop,

so I had to come back
and pick it up.

I'm so glad I got to see you.

May I come in?

How come?

So we're not standing
in the hallway.

[laughs uneasily]
You know what?

Why don't we go for a walk?

Yeah, I'm just going
to grab my coat

and then we can go for a walk.

Actually forget about
my coat, let's just go.

This is about my Christmas
present again, isn't it?

Maybe.

Aiden, I'm getting a
little concerned here.

We set a gift budget.

I have not exceeded our budget.

I feel like that's
a technicality.

Time will tell.

Okay, fine.

I'll let you back to
your top secret mission.

Thank you.

Coast is clear.

[sigh of relief]
That was so stressful.

Nice job with the
cookies and milk.

Where is everything?

If I were you, I really
wouldn't turn on the oven.

Mail call!

Thanks, Carrie.

Something you
might want to see.

Looks like Christmas Eve
at Books Books Books

is going to be something else.

Oh, wow!

They're really going
all out this year.

They're going to have
a candy cane forest.

I don't know what that is.

Whatever it is, I'm sure it
will look good in a selfie.

People have no respect
for tradition anymore.

I like tradition.

So do I.

I just wish it didn't feel
like such an uphill battle.

No!

Oooh! [coughing]

[cell phone vibrating]

Kind of cold night
to be up here, huh?

Well, my apartment
smells like smoke.

Just waiting for
the air to clear.

And why does your
apartment smell like smoke?

Well, you were so happy
when I gave you the bread,

I thought I'd make
another batch.

Maybe I should've quit
while I was ahead.

It's good to know your limits.

I know.

That meant so much to you.

Darcy, honoring a memory

doesn't mean you have to
replicate it exactly.

We might not save
the rec center.

We might not, but
that does not diminish

all the memories
that came before.

No, it doesn't.

You know that picture you have
of us building a life together?

Yeah.

I hope it's in the not
too distant future, too.

There you go, all set.

Oh, so everyone on staff
came up with great ideas.

We are going to do
a hot cocoa bar,

and Matt is creating
postcards to send to Santa.

But won't Santa's sleigh

already be packed
for Christmas Eve?

Well, the postcards
aren't asking for anything.

They're saying thanks
and, you know,

have a great night at work.

Very thoughtful.

Hey guys, all finished.

Nice job Marcus,
let me see these.

Wow.

So now why'd you make three
different sized collars?

Well, one is for Bailey,
and the other two

are for Bailey's friends
at the dog park.

What a great idea!

-There you go!
-Thanks.

Aiden, Darcy,
glad you're both here.

I can't believe it!
It's a Christmas miracle.

Glenda, what happened?

The Philadelphia Society
for Historic Preservation

has put the building
under review

as a possible historic site.

Oh, that's great news!

If it's designated, it
becomes a city landmark.

It can't be torn down
or rezoned.

And, it can't be sold
while it's under review.

That's wonderful!

How did David Pierce
take the news?

Not well at all.

But he did, however,
tell me to thank your class.

For the Christmas decorations.

We will be sure
to let the kids know.

Thank you, Glenda.

I have an idea.

One of many, I'm sure.

Come.

So what if we made David Pierce
the guest of honor

at the Christmas party?

Honor all the years his family
has invested in the community.

Maybe give him a
framed certificate?

People love framed certificates.

So we're going for guilt?

I prefer to think of it as
accentuating the positive.

I like the way you think.

[door knocking]

Knock knock!

Do I have jewelry options?

That's the funniest question
you have ever asked me.

Well, I got a new dress
for the Christmas party

at the Rec Center, and I
just need a little something.

You know, ever since
Aiden shared the story

behind your Christmas village,

it just warms my heart
every time I see it.

It does the same for me.

Even if it's still a little...

Bittersweet.

The thing is, a few months
before their accident,

my dad told me he was making
the house I grew up in.

He wanted there to be a landmark
all three of us shared.

And that meant so
much because, well,

we don't often think
of ourselves as being

a part of our parents'
love story.

Even though, clearly we are.

And he was never
able to make it.

It's always felt
a little incomplete.

You know, my husband Gerald,

oh, he loved Christmas!

The year I lost him, I
didn't even put up a tree.

Can you imagine?

Me, without a Christmas tree?

When did things change?

It was the first Christmas,

and sitting there
in the apartment

without a twinkling light
in sight,

I realized how sad
Gerald would be

if he saw that, you know?

The best way to honor
him and the life we had

was to bring beauty and
happiness out into the world.

And so I dragged out
all of my decorations,

got a carload of new ones,

and set out to generate
more joy.

You do that so beautifully.

Well, thank you.

Here, try this c*ck ring.

Okay!

Oh, look at that,
a perfect fit!

And this is a
perfect fit as well.

You know Darcy, the love
we have in our lives,

made us who we are.

And there's joy to be found
in sharing those memories.

Well, nobody understands
the importance of memories

quite like Aiden.

Mmm, that's undeniable!

Let's check out how good
you look in statement jewelry.

This isn't statement jewelry,
this is exclamation jewelry.

Well, that's even better.

[door knocking]

It's Mrs. Henley!

Come in!

Aiden!

I think I have great news!

Turns out there's
a missing piece!

♪ ♪ ♪

You said you were just here
as a customer today.

And you said you
were taking the day off,

and here we are!

So, Marcus and I are going
to a matinee performance

of, "The Nutcracker"
this afternoon.

Ooh!

Aunt Monica said
there would be a battle.

Is there really?

There is a sword fight
with a giant rat.

-Really?
-Mmm-hmm.

Cool!

Nicely done.

So, whatcha
got there Marcus?

Aunt Monica bought
me a book called Mad Libs

where you take words and
make them into a funny story.

I used to love those.

You want to try one?

-Absolutely.
-Okay.

-Favorite color?
-Green.

-An animal?
-Rabbit.

A number larger than 10?

One thousand.

The address of the place
you grew up in?

Really?

That's what it says.



Come on!

[cell phone vibrating]

Nice work, Marcus!

Well, how did I do?

You look pretty!

Thank you.

And you look very handsome.

You need some help
with that tie?

-Maybe.
-Okay.

I used to do this
for your uncle Gerald.

He would pretend that
he needed my help.

It was his way of
checking in with me

before we went
somewhere special.

I miss my mom and dad.

Oh sweetheart, I know you do.

But if I can't
spend it with them,

I'm happy I can
spend it with you.

I am very happy you're here,

and I know that Aiden
is happy you're here,

and Luigi, and Darcy...

[together]
And Bailey!

Your friends are
pretty awesome.

Thank you, but they're
more than just my friends.

You know you start life with
the family that you're given,

your parents, your aunts,
your uncles.

But with time, there's another
family that you choose.

And each family is a treasure.

And now, you,
are part of both my families.

Well!

Aren't we a stunning pair?

Great, so the delivery
will be here at 5:00 p.m.

-Great.
-Yeah!

-I like those ones.
-Yeah.

Darcy Archer, I hear
that you took a little trip

to The Society for
Historic Preservation!

.

This was intentional!

Well of course
it was intentional.

We wanted to extend the courtesy

of following up
on what you told us.

What are you talking about?
What did I tell you?

That you were saddled

with the responsibility
of a century-old building.

So, Aiden and I thought, wow!



The Pierce family really
should be acknowledged

for all those years of care.

And, now you will be.

Look Darcy, you might
slow down the sale,

but you won't stop it.

Everyday you don't sell,

is another day you
might reconsider.

That's my staff pick
this month.

You're selling this book?

It's exhaustively researched,

and we always try to support
Philadelphia authors.

[camera snap]

You sure this is
the right place?

Yeah, I think so.

I seem to remember
a picture of Darcy

right on that front porch.

Excuse me, young man,

why are you taking
pictures of my house?

I am so sorry,
I could explain.

Here, don't worry, I got this.

-You sure?
-Yeah.

Hello ma'am, Merry Christmas.

Well, Merry Christmas to you.

My name is Marcus,
what's yours?

Hi Marcus, I'm Jo Howarth.

It's nice to meet you.

I should've asked permission

before taking pictures of
your house, I do apologize.

I'm Aiden Harris...

And this is Bailey.

Well, hello Bailey!

My friend Darcy used
to live in this house

and Aiden's going to make
a miniature version of it,

so we can give it
to her for Christmas.

Is that so?

What inspired that?

Darcy's father used
to make these miniatures

of all the important
family landmarks,

but he never made
one of this house.

So, we thought we'd help and
try completing the collection.

He never made one?

Well he intended to,
he just...

Well, he passed away
several years ago.

You know, it's a
little chilly out here.

Why don't we continue
this conversation inside?

You can bring Bailey.
Come on.

Nice job disarming
Mrs. Howarth.

I should be a detective.

Pretty good at this.

I moved in about
three years ago.

Thank you.

It's a good house.

You can tell when someone's
loved a place, you know.

There's a little wood shop
in the basement.

Not anything I would use,
but my grandson loves it.

And a few summers back,
he was down there

and underneath the work bench,

he found a small
wrapped gift.

Heaven knows how long
it had been down there.

It was clearly someone's
hiding place,

so we opened it,
and found, this!

I kept it on display
in my dining room.

Isn't it handsome?

He made it.

It would appear he did.

And I'm so pleased to know
it has a rightful home.

I can't believe our luck!

Aunt Monica says,

"When you set out
to find goodness,

goodness finds you."

Your friend Darcy is very
lucky to have people like you.

[telephone ringing]

This is Darcy.

Darcy hi, it's Karen Howell,
I represent Barbara Kirkland?

Hi!

We are really looking forward

to having Barbara
on Christmas Eve.

Right, as you know,
our agreement allows

for either party to cancel
with a minimum 24 hours notice?

Well, we're certainly
not looking to do that.

Yeah, here's the thing...

We've had another offer.

Darcy?

I'll be back in an hour.

Mary Shaw?

Yes?

Hi, I'm Darcy Archer
from Chaucer's.

Could I have a moment
of your time?

This is about
Barbara Kirkland, isn't it?

You stole our author the
day before Christmas Eve...

Our headlining author

is stuck in a snowstorm
up in Canada somewhere.

Barbara Kirkland was already
in town and we were in a pinch.

So, your solution was
putting us in a pinch?

All we did was
make an offer, Darcy.

I can't help if she accepted.

Are you kidding me with this?

It's one thing
to not participate

in the book donation drive,

even though you
are a book store,

or try and outdo our event
with a candy cane forest,

but this...

Come on!

I'm sorry, Darcy.

I have to do what's best
for my store.

These are the tough choices
I have to make.

It's just business.

I've grown really
tired of hearing that

as an excuse to be unkind.

And one more thing, Mary!

Your store is skimping
on hot chocolate

and covering it
with whipping cream,

and people are starting to talk.

♪ ♪ ♪

Well don't you look dapper.

Ms. Archer!
You take my breath away.

What, this old thing?

Tell me, why didn't we
go to this party last year?

Because you were still in Ohio
rediscovering your identity.

You know, amnesia
really messed

with my schedule
for a minute there.

Shall we?

♪ ♪ ♪

h*, h*, h*!

This is amazing.

Yeah, they really
go all out.

Hey!

Oh Astrid, here's that
handsome art teacher

I told you about.

Hi.

It's okay, I can say that,
I'm a married woman.

Remember me? Susan?

Yes, of course.
Nice to see you again, Susan.

And this is my bingo buddy,
Astrid.

Isn't he handsome, Astrid?

Oh, he looks like
a cartoon prince!

And look at her!

Aren't you adorable!

Someone needs to take
a picture of you two.

Come on, you can sit with us.

-Really?
-Yes.

Thank you.

[Vanessa]
You're not giving

your Aunt Monica
any trouble, are you?

No ma'am.

He's been a perfect angel,
Vanessa.

And I brought him to the
Rec Center Christmas Party.

Oh, the rec center
party's the best!

Still miss you, though.

I miss you baby, so much.

And I know your dad does, too.

He's only called once.

But he'll call again,
just as soon as he can.

Yeah, I know.

Tell me what
you've been up to.

Oh, well the Christmas
village is almost done

for Aiden's girlfriend,
and it looks so cool.

Sounds like you
made a new friend.

So how long have you
two been together?

A year.

Oh, that's nice.

Susan and Alan just
celebrated 53 years.

Is that so?

What's your secret?

Whenever, and however you can,

you save the best of yourselves
for each other.

It takes a lifetime to learn
how to love someone properly.

I feel like we're starting
to get the hang of it.

[laughter]

Good evening, everyone.

I'd like to take just a moment
for a special presentation.

Many people might
not realize this,

but the center is
actually family owned.

It's been in the Pierce family
for over three generations.

We wanted to take this time
to thank Mr. Pierce for...

[whispering]

What is he doing?

Thank you.

Before Glenda grows too
effusive with her praise,

there was something
that I needed to say,

about the future
of the center.

He promised he wouldn't.

And maybe he won't.

I wanted everyone here
to know,

that in the coming year...

Okay, he's gonna.

In celebration
of its designation

as a Philadelphia
historic landmark,

we intend on doing a
full-scale renovation

to help prepare the center
for its next 100 years.

[audience applauding]

The truth is, I've been very
fortunate in my line of work.

And I'm very grateful
for all of my success.

But a real lasting legacy?

Well, it's people.

It's community.

It's the stories that
we all tell together.

And, I am very proud to
have played a small part

in the memories that
you all make here.

Thank you.

[audience applauding]

Mr. Pierce?

Darcy, Aiden.

I don't know what to
say except thank you.

My sister has this kid,

well, not really a
kid anymore I guess,

but in a way they
always are, you know?

Brilliant young man.

But he went through a bit of
a rough stretch for awhile.

And the first time that we've
seen him genuinely excited

about anything, in far too long,

was when he decided
to write a book

about the history
of the internet.

Your nephew is Pat Young.

You recommended his book.

You gave him a place
in your community

when others wouldn't.

Thank you.

♪ ♪ ♪

You know I've got to tell you,

this is the best party
I've been to in ages.

So, have you finished
your secret present?

Almost.

Am I going to love it?

Man, I hope so.

You know, I couldn't have
done it without Marcus' help.

If helping others reveals
the best version of ourselves,

then accepting help gives people
the chance to do their best.

Wow, that is very wise.

I'm paraphrasing Mrs. Henley.

Well, she's awesome
and very wise.

She is.

Check them out.

Looks like love is ageless.

Can you see yourself

looking at someone like that


Yeah.

That's really easy to picture.

Okay people, we are
T minus 90 minutes

until the doors open.

It smells like hot
chocolate in here,

which is already helping.

That was a great idea, Matthew.

Thanks.

Oh, Mr. Young!

Thank you so much for doing
this on such short notice.

No no, thank you.

This is very, very exciting.

Carrie, will you show Mr. Young
where we're setting up?

Sure, right this way.

Buon Natale!

Ready for a party?

This should be a
very exciting night!

Come on.

We have a very passionate
local author

who has promised
to invite friends.

Have you guys seen Aiden?

He and Marcus are picking
up last minute supplies.

Do you need any help here?

We take it from here, ah?

Okay, I think this
is the perfect time

to go get changed.

[telephone ringing]

This is Darcy.

Darcy, hi, it's Carolyn Cho

with The Society for
Historic Preservation.

I'm so sorry to bother
you on Christmas Eve,

but I just realized I failed
to have you sign the request

for us to take to
the city council.

Oh, well I'm sure if you
contact the property owner,

David Pierce, he can help you.

Since you made
the initial request,

it has to be signed by you,
and because of the holiday,

we really need to
get this in today.

No problem, Carolyn.

I will be right there.

I'll be back as soon as I can.

Don't worry about a thing,
we have it all handled.

Thank you!

Guys, the coast is clear!

Did she suspect anything?

Not a thing!

This is all you needed?

I can't apologize enough
for the inconvenience.

All the hoops we
have to jump through

to get the paperwork
in time for holidays.

I'm happy to help, Mrs. Cho.

-Thank you.
-Yeah.

Well, Merry Christmas.

Merry Christmas.

-Bye.
-Buh-bye.

[cell phone vibrating]

Oh, Darcy's on the move!

We've got to hurry.

Hi!

Is it ready?

It's all ready, we just need

to get her away from
the back of the store.

Great!

I made it!

Hey sweetie!

Hi!

Let me get that for you.

Oh, thank you!

Wow, there's already
people lining up out there.

Well, that's a good sign.

It is, and everything
looks amazing.

Oh, is the craft area
set up for the kids?

All set.

Great, I want to see it.

[Mrs. Henley and Matthew]
No!

Oh?

Because you need
to go to your office

and get into your party dress.

You're right,
I should do that.

But you know what Matthew,

there's no need for people
to be waiting out in the cold.

Let's go ahead and
open up the doors.

Should we wait for...

Wait for?

Nothing!

Darcy! We may have a situation.

Oh, I don't like it
when people say that.

No, everything's fine here.

I just heard there's
power lines down on Gerard

and the whole street
lost electricity.

Everyone at Books Books Books
is standing in the dark.

Why can't I just enjoy that?

Oh, because you're
not that kind of person.

That was quick thinking.

How did you get
Books Books Books

to go along with it?

That wasn't a distraction.

Books Books Books
really doesn't have power.

Oh, that's unfortunate.

But the timing was impeccable.

Mary, hi,

this is Darcy Archer
from Chaucer's Bookstore.

I hear you could use a
good neighbor right about now.

[guests chatting]

Hi.

There you are, I wondered
where you ran off to.

You started the party early.

Yeah, people were
waiting so I figured

I'd go ahead and let them in.

You okay?

Oh, yeah.

Just, I have a little present

that I wanted to give
to you before the party.

Oh, I'm sorry,
am I too late?

No, no no, it's all good.

Just uh, let me know
when you have some time.

Okay.

You aren't giving
me your top secret,

amazing Christmas present
tonight, are you?

Why do you ask?

Because all of this buildup

is making me seriously question
the gift I'm giving you.

Darcy, your gift is
going to be perfect,

because it comes from you.

Oh, that was good.

Yeah, I try.

Just give me a few moments
to get Pat's reading set up,

and then I'm all yours.

Okay.

The team had all gone
home for the holidays,

but Tim Burner's lead
decided to try one more time.

At long last, the
connection between terminal

and server was successful.

It was Christmas, 1990,

and the internet as
we know it, was born.

Consider the perfection
of that timing.

It didn't make the world
smaller, it made it closer.

So of course it
happened at Christmas,

the time of year when
that's what we're all seeking.

The hope that we'll
all be bold enough,

to attempt a connection.

Thanks.

[audience cheering
and applauding]

♪ ♪ ♪

Oh!

Darcy, thank you.

Of course.

Mary, this is my boyfriend,
Aiden Harris.

Aiden, this is Mary Shaw,

the manager of
Books Books Books.

Oh!

-Hi there.
-Hi!

Mary's store lost power

and they were going to
have to cancel the event,

so I said everyone
could come here.

Of course you did.

I hope you're ready
for a packed event,

because I have a store full
of customers headed your way!

We are ready and
happy to have them.

We have room for everyone.

Darcy, I owe you an apology.

I think I could learn
a few things from you

on how to see the competition
as part of the community.

I'm very glad to hear
you say that.

Well, Merry Christmas
and welcome to Chaucer's.

Please make yourself at home.

Great, thank you.

So, how about the surprise?

Are we ready?

Darcy, we just sold
every copy of my book.

-Seriously?
-Yeah.

I mean, wow!

Pat, that is so fantastic!

Yeah!

Oh, I want to introduce
you to my uncle, David.

I believe we've met before.

Of course, it's lovely
to see you again.

Darcy's been working

to have the Center declared
a historic landmark.

Oh, wow, that's great!

In fact, I just
signed the paperwork

at The Society for
Historic Preservation.

Just in time for the holidays.

Right, well,
thank you for that.

Clearly that was important.

Oh, my entire family is here

and it's kind of
a big night for us.

Do you mind taking
a few photos with us?

Oh, actually we were...

Oh no, go ahead.
You are very busy.

-Are you sure?
-Of course, go!

Yes, great!
Would love to!

Right this way.

Hey, thanks.

You still haven't
gotten her back there!

No, not yet.

Darcy is a very popular person.

Well, be patient.

She's worth waiting for.

She certainly is.

Hi.

Hi, Ms. Archer.

Whatcha got there?

So, tonight hasn't
gone exactly as planned.

But, if it's okay with you,

I'd still like
to give it a try.

Aiden, what in the world?

The town of
South Dublin, Maine.

Which you know.

The library, Dan Brown's on
the water, the movie theater,

and then we journey
to Philadelphia.

The house on Lexington Avenue.

Made by your dad.

I don't understand.

A few years ago,

a very kind lady who lives
in that house now,

found a package hidden
in her basement,

all wrapped up and
ready for Christmas.

She kept it because she knew
that someone made it with care.

He made it, and you found it.

We visited your house,
Marcus and I,

when you gave him your address.

I knew that Mad Libs
was really weird.

But that's just
the beginning.

Einstein Hospital.

When I first learned your name,

and you taught me how to
make those paper snowflakes.

Luigi's Restaurant,
where we've shared basically

all of our favorite meals.

And the rec center!

Naturally.

And...

Chaucer's Bookstore.

Where I first saw your face.

And we also had our first kiss.

Ah yes, that too.

I can't believe
you did all this.

This is the most amazing gift

that anyone has
ever given to me.

Thank you.

Darcy, you are worth it.

Oh...

I hate to interrupt.

Mrs. Henley...

Look at this.

It's beautiful.

Aiden, you asked
that I let you know

when Marcus' father called.

Is he on the phone now?

Yes, he is.

Is it Christmas yet
where you are?

No, it's still
Christmas Eve where I am.

Hi, baby brother,
Merry Christmas!

Hi, Monica!

Hey, I'm sorry I'm
having a little trouble

hearing you there.

Marcus let's go out front

so that your dad
can hear you better.

And we made Christmas collars
for Bailey

and his friends
at the dog park.

Oh, and I judged a
cookie contest too,

it was so much fun!

Wow, it sounds
like you've been busy.

Yeah, when are you coming home?

I'll be there
before you know it.

Okay, and when's that?

Marcus, look up.

Dad!

You're home!

I'm home, buddy.

Oh baby brother,

it's so good
to have you back.

It's so good to see you!

Oh, and dad!

These are my friends,
Aiden and Darcy.

-Hi.
-Hi.

Nice to meet you.

Thank you so much for all
you've done for Marcus.

You made this Christmas
really special for him.

He's made it very
special for us, too.

Can I show him
the Christmas village?

-Absolutely.
-Come on!

All right...

Thank you.

Oh, couldn't help but notice.

Somebody left a gift
under that tree.

You can't possibly
have another surprise.

I don't know this one.

That's cause we
haven't seen it yet.

This is our house.

Whatever it might look like,

whatever it turns out to be.

And we will fill it

with all the stories
that we tell together.

All of your memories, Darcy.

The beautiful moments...

The sad ones...

Every triumph...

Every loss...

They've made you into this
person that I love so much.

And all I want...

Is a chance to spend
the rest of my life

making memories with you.

Darcy Archer...

Will you marry me?

Yes.

-Yes?
-Yes!

Yes!

♪ ♪ ♪

She said yes!

[cheering and applauding]

Merry Christmas, Darcy.

Merry Christmas, Aiden.

♪ ♪ ♪

♪ So go ahead,
light the fire ♪

♪ Turn that
Christmas tree on ♪

♪ Because I've been
missing you so much ♪

♪ That I wrote you this song ♪

♪ Yes I did,
because I missed Thanksgiving ♪

♪ Missed a birthday or two ♪

♪ I didn't make
Saint Valentine's ♪

♪ But I was thinking of you ♪