Food for the Heart (2023)

[bunniefuu]

Today's gonna be a great day.

And now for the best part.

Salt water taffy for Mr. Row.

Jackson is on times tables,

so flash cards

for the Prescotts.

And Gina Everette

loves lavender.

Oh, hey, it's one floor up,

first on the left.

- Perfect.

- Thanks, Patrick.

Good morning, neighbour.

Good morning.

Elves.

It's the only way

you could possibly

get so much done by 8 AM.

You must have elves.

I was excited

to get started early.

Look, I found these

animal-shaped

gluten-free pasta.

Isn't it awesome?

Can I start packaging

it all up?

Um, no.

Some people didn't order

gluten-free,

and then there's the different

sauces.

And Hector Rawlins requested

a double order

- for his date tonight.

- Hmm.

Lions and tigers and bears

don't exactly say romance...

Wait, I can barely remember

to brush my hair in the morning.

How can you possibly know

an entire meal service's

client roster by heart?

Mm, I have a system.

So you've mentioned.

I'll go set up the cafe.

- Thank you.

- Mm-hmm.

The Loving Spoonful.

We put the adore

in pasta cadore.

I think they finally rented

the apartment upstairs.

I saw the new guy

moving in today.

Should bring him a flyer,

he can be a new client.

You're already here

a million hours a week.

And I can't work more

with my university classes.

One more client might cause

a nervous collapse

- for both of us.

- I'm not that bad.

When was the last time

you went on a vacation

or went on a date,

or a coffee break?

Have you thought more about

what we talked about,

about expanding just...

beyond just us?

I like it just us.

What am I, Ridge way Foods?

I'm not here

to take over the world.

Hey, can you bring some

yellow table cloths

from the back?

I think it's time

for a change for summer.

Okay. But if you don't

get more sleep and work less,

then you're going

to be seeing those lions

and tigers and bears

in more places than your food.

See bears...

Oh no, no, no, I was supposed

to have more time.

Um...

Excuse me, this is gonna

sound crazy

but did you just see

a bear walk by here?

- Brow? Black button eyes?

- So big?

Um, yeah. You too?

That's Jolene.

Hey, Jolene,

you wanna come out here

and say hello

to our new neighbour?

You too, Ivy.

Hi, Ivy. I'm Lia,

this is my meal

service business,

the Loving Spoonful.

We put the care in carrot cake.

Anyways, it was nice

to meet you.

I really like your bear.

Jolene's a pretty name.

Did you name it yourself?

Nice to meet you, Jolene.

- And your dad?

- Uncle Eli.

I mean, just Eli.

That's what most people call me.

Nice to meet you.

Nice to meet you, just Eli.

We'll see you around?

Sounds good.

- Okay.

- Okay.

- Bye.

- Bye.

But I was supposed

to be eligible

for a fourth extension

for my taxes.

No, no, no,

I want to pay my taxes,

it's just that at the moment

I... I can't.

What do you mean

seize my assets?

What, you mean my pots

and my pans and my stove?

Do you promise

about the stove part?

No, no.

I take this very seriously,

Mr. Herrara.

What's my final, final deadline?

I will have the money to you

by then, I promise.

Thank you.

Somehow...

You are a cook

with no way to cook.

Tell me how your stove

going out is not a problem.

I already adjusted

the next menu.

Fruit and yoghurt parfaits,

avocado Greek salad,

and charcuterie boards.

That's brilliant,

but not a permanent solution

like, say, a new stove.

But I know mine so well.

Yes, that it's unreliable.

I'm gonna get the other bags.

May, hi.

Calling to see how

the moving went?

You know it, cuz.

Well, I'm happy to report

I'm on the last box.

Last time we moved,

it took me weeks to unpack.

Nothing like a project manager

for a smooth move,

especially a freelance one

between jobs.

I let them know I was available

to stay on

if they needed more help.

They didn't.

Well, you'll find

something else.

So, how's the search going

for Ivy's new summer day camp?

I got a recommendation

for a camp

we're checking out tomorrow.

Ivy's not excited

about the idea, though.

You know how shy she can be

in new situations.

Speaking of Ivy,

I had a little housewarming gift

delivered to you.

It should be at the door.

- Dare I ask?

- Why ask when you can open?

Right.

Uh, there must have been

a mistake on the delivery.

This appears to be some sort

of cooking device.

Now, if my favourite cousin

knows me well enough

to understand my cooking skills

are...

Non-existent.

It's more for Ivy

than it is for you,

she loves pancakes.

- She does?

- She asked for them every day

the last time she came to visit.

I guess I was lucky to get by

with fruit and cereal

for breakfast every day

the last couple of years.

Why do things have to change?

Because little girls

don't stay little forever.

Mine sure didn't.

Every day Ivy's more

of a mystery to me

than even this strange,

alien apparatus.

It's pancakes, Eli.

Try. Learn. Grow.

I just want to make sure

I'm raising Ivy the right way.

The way you are with your girls,

the way my sister would have.

You'll figure it out

as you go,

the same way every parent does.

And you know we're always

happy to help.

You can call any time.

Thanks. I will.

- Bye for now, May.

- Bye, cuz.

Okay...

Who knew this city

had so many walk-ups.

But we already got our cardio

in for the day.

What else do you

have to do today?

Aw, there's a new recipe

I want to try

and placing the orders

for next week...

No, no, no,

I know that you have

study group tonight.

Off with you.

But promise me you'll sleep in

at least tomorrow

since we open late?

I'll be fine. I have...

A system.

I know, I know.

Hey, Ivy.

You know, I was thinking

we could hit that park

around the corner and try

out the swings,

- what do you say?

- Okay!

Oh, you're bringing Jolene?

I want to bring her.

Okay. Hey, you know,

maybe we can call

your friend Samantha

and see if she can meet us

at the park to play too.

- No, it's okay.

- I've got Jolene.

I'll go put my shoes on.

Okay! Okay!

Oh, wait.

That's not my smoke alarm.

Finally.

You okay?

Good.

Oh...

Ah!

Try, she said. Learn, she said.

Grow, she said.

I know, I'm sorry

about the alarm,

it won't happen again.

- Lia, hi.

- Hi.

It sounded like you were having

trouble with your new stove

so... came prepared.

- Meal delivery.

- Mm-hmm.

Does that include breakfast?

Best in the city.

Or, at least in this

neighbourhood anyway.

Come with me.

Let me just grab Ivy.

- Okay.

- Hey, Ivy.

What's this, Miss Lia?

It is a paper fortune finder.

"Your smile lights up

the room."

Ooh, that's one smart cookie.

What's yours, Uncle Eli?

Miss Lia?

Oh, um...

"Listen with your heart

and think on your feet."

And if you get them mixed up,

you can still keep an ear

to the ground.

Ah!

"A bud is not a rose."

I'm not sure I ever aspired

to be a flower.

Oh, every dogwood has his day.

Oh, you better believe it.

But why paper

fortune cookies, Miss Lia?

Well, I always like to include

a little extra into my meals.

It's not always fortunes,

it's just

something to bring

people together

or make them think,

or just brighten their day.

Hmm, that's brilliant,

though I'm sure this sandwich

was enough to brighten

my day all by itself.

How soon can we start

your service?

Oh, um...

Well, I'm actually not

accepting any more clients

right now.

Um, just for right now, I'm

upgrading my staffing

systems

prior to an asset overhaul

and capital expansion.

Oh, what's your current

strategy for maintaining synergy

between management, accounting,

lab our, and sales?

I'm a project manager.

Business systems

are my expertise.

Uh...

My strategy is, um,

by keeping it all... me.

- You do all that yourself?

- Mm-hmm.

No wonder you're turning

down clients.

You're critically understaffed.

You need help. Badly.

I... I don't need help,

I have a system.

That's what every business

owner thinks,

but it's my job to show them

the right way.

Who crowned you the king

of the know-it-alls?

I know you can't take on new

clients, what else is there?

Uncle Eli,

are we still going to look

at the new day camp today?

Yeah, Ivy, we are.

Miss Lia and I just got

a little distracted with...

A spirited discussion.

Do we have to?

- You know what?

- Day camp can be a lot of fun.

I loved it when I was your age.

We're just

checking it out, Ivy,

to see if you like it.

Actually, we should leave soon.

So, thank you for breakfast.

Otherwise, Ivy and I would have

been eating

- our breakfast blackened.

- You're welcome.

It was nice to see you again,

Ivy. And Jolene.

Just Eli...

Coming?

Uncle Eli!

Look what I just made? See?

It says "Best friends."

That's great. But, uh...

I thought Samantha

was your best friend?

I've had Jolene forever.

This place is the best!

Can I spend all summer here?

- You like it that much?

- You weren't so sure before.

- I love it!

- Oh!

Then this is where

you'll spend the summer.

Okay.

As soon as I find

the price tag.

I know the coffee's not great

but I didn't think

it was that awful.

Thanks, yeah. Not great.

I mean, you'd think a place

this expensive

would have better food.

Someone should say something

to the camp director.

You just did.

Oh, I'm sorry,

I didn't realize.

- I feel...

- As bad as that coffee?

No, you're not wrong.

Our food vendor just quit,

and with camp starting

on Monday,

I haven't had time

to find another.

That sounds like a task

you can outsource

to a project manager. Like me.

Is that something

a project manager does?

Spotting talent

and dedication is a big part

of managing projects

I have someone in mind already.

Here is my resume.

I'll even sweeten the deal by

letting you pay my finder's fee

and my niece's camp tuition.

Oh, will you, now?

As long as the vendor

you find us lasts the season.

If they quit before

the end of the summer,

you'll have to pay your niece's

fees out of pocket.

Deal.

Ivy seems to really be

enjoying herself.

Why doesn't she stay

for a couple of hours today?

Oh, actually, I do have some

running around to do.

That sounds great. Thanks.

Strategy for synergy, huh?

Show me the right way, will you?

Ha! My way works just fine,

thank you very much.

Wrench!

Don't you think

he has a point, though?

You do need more help.

No.

See?

Okay, sure. Yeah, maybe one day.

But right now,

I can just work on

my meal breaks.

Something tells me

you already do that.

What does it say

to your customers

that you don't take time

to enjoy your own food?

Okay, well, why don't you

tell me the right way

to get more done?

Scalability.

So your idea is

to have me hire you

to get hired

to deliver meals

to Camp Fernway?

Exactly. I get paid

when and only if

you get the contract.

Camp Fernway gets

a reliable food vendor

with healthy, delicious food

and you can expand your business

with the boxed lunches

you already provide.

Uh, I just don't know.

I thought you might say that.

Try this.

Oh, ew.

Oh, what is this?

That is what you would doom

a bunch of sweet,

innocent children to

if you don't get this contract.

Well, that is a sneaky tactic.

Did it work?

Do you think that they would

be willing to give

an advance up front?

So you can hire more help?

Among other things.

Um, how many meals

are we talking about?

Uh, let's see...

Ah, here it is, Camp Fernway

session one enrollment

about 50 kids.

That's a lot of apple slices.

Getting you an advance

should be no problem.

So you'll try for it?

You're actually taking

someone's advice

and applying for that camp job?

You don't think

I should do it?

Yes, you definitely

should do it,

it's a fantastic opportunity.

But?

I mean,

I saw you and that Eli guy

together for like two seconds

and the words that came to mind

were oil and water.

Can you really work with him?

He'll just be helping me

with the written

application part.

How long can that be?

I'll get it.

You get started

on the application.

Thank you.

Welcome to

the Loving Spoonful,

where we put the laugh

in rice pilaf.

- Hi, Mrs. Lee.

- Hello, dear.

- Is my weekly order ready yet?

- All ready.

You know, we do deliver too

if you'd prefer.

Oh, thank you, but it makes

a nice addition

to our walkies.

Oh, I can't wait to see

what surprises Lia

added this week.

Well, she's always on

the lookout for something new.

Finding Lia

was such a piece of luck.

I was hoping to be able

to tell her myself

how much I appreciate her.

She's in the back, I can...

Ah! The application

is 76 pages?! Ugh!

I can get her the message.

Thank you, dear.

Ugh...

I can't do this.

76 pages.

The application is 76 pages,

this will take forever,

- I don't have time for this.

- Well, it's okay,

I can fill most of it out

based on your business records.

Please don't tell me you keep

all your business records

stored in a giant shoe box.

Of course not.

One of those big crates

bananas come in

with the open sides

for papers to fall out?

It is all on here.

Good.

For a moment there I was scared

this was gonna be a real

mess.

Okay.

So, what question

should I answer first?

Okay, this should be

an easy one.

Who are your major suppliers?

I don't know,

all those apple slices

means I'm gonna have

to find some new ones.

Well, we can put down

one of the wholesalers.

You'll have to go

through them anyway,

that's what all the big

companies

- like Ridge way Foods do.

- Oh, no, I need to know

who I'm really working with.

The application

is due right away.

I know, but can't you offer

some solutions

and not just problems?

I offered you a solution

- and you just sat there.

- Uncle Eli.

I heard you guys having, um,

a spirited discussion.

I am sorry,

I didn't realize we woke you.

Me too. We didn't mean

to be so... spirited.

Come on,

I'll tuck you back in.

And Lia,

I'll try to think

of some solutions.

- Me too.

- Say good night.

- Good night.

- Good night.

Okay. Solutions, solutions.

Who's my ideal supplier?

Eli, I think...

Good night, sweetheart.

What is it?

I know where

we can find my suppliers.

And all of them in one place.

Genius. Okay.

The right strategy now

is to create a grid,

visiting each stall,

in turn making...

Blackberries!

Uh, no, I was going to say...

Wow. But we really need

to focus and...

Ooh. Honey!

Oh!

- Yeah.

- I love this stuff.

Okay, put that down

on the list.

Feel it.

What you want to do

is one on the side, then

- you just...

- Oh!

Thank you.

Why, thank you.

Last one,

sure you don't want it?

Ooh. Well, if you're

gonna twist my arm.

This was a great idea.

And super cool of May

to invite Ivy to the movies.

It's been really tricky

for me to find new ways

to keep Ivy entertained.

So, how will you ever remember

what you got from which vendor?

I even made notes of who

I want to try for what.

Maybe you should let me?

I'll start a supplier

database for you.

Cards are fine for me.

Yeah, but when

you have a team,

you'll need an organized system

for whoever does

the ordering and invoices

and taxes and...

Okay, okay.

But if someone else is doing

the ordering

and the invoicing and the taxes,

then what am I supposed to do?

All the stuff only you can do.

Creating new recipes,

dreaming up new extras,

getting to know your clients.

That's all the fun stuff.

This is supposed to be work.

Who told you work

couldn't be fun?

You know, no one ever did.

And speaking of the fun stuff,

have you decided

what the extras

will be for the kids?

It needs to be something

appropriate for the kids,

also special. Most importantly...

Scalable.

I'm gonna have to think

of something soon

because the application

is due right away.

Yeah.

Quantify and optimize

gross and operating margins

with narrative projective

differentials

over the next financial

interval.

Okay...

The only word I understood there

was gross,

and I doubt they

think what I mean.

No wonder they're having

trouble finding vendors.

Maybe you can project manage

an overhaul of their vendor

application next.

Maybe. What they're asking

is...

Hey!

What are you doing here?

You're supposed to be in class.

It got moved.

To this afternoon.

I thought we were supposed to do

deliveries this afternoon,

it's a two-person job.

Meal prep in the late morning,

deliveries in the afternoon,

that's the way we always do it.

I have... A system.

We know.

Can you switch the deliveries

and the meal prep around?

No.

The coconut rice pudding

and the pumpkin quinoa

will need time to set.

Ugh, so sorry, Lia.

Maybe I can miss this one class.

No! I don't want you

to miss out because of me.

Actually, this could be

really good.

- Good?

- I mean, this is where

having the right system

can come in handy.

Fay, could you handle the meal

prep if the recipes

were written down somewhere

other than inside Lia's head?

Sure.

Seen her do it enough times.

Great! Which means Lia and I

can handle the deliveries

this morning.

Ha! It's not that I don't

think you can do it, Fay,

it's just that I've never done

it this way before and...

She'll be able to call you

with any questions

and I'll be able to see more

of how your business works.

And if it's okay with them,

we can even take

pictures of you with your

satisfied customers

for the job application.

Please, Lia.

I'd hate to leave you

in the lurch.

Okay. I'll go write

out the recipes.

What?

Oh, I'm just wondering

where you keep

your magic wand.

It's the only thing I can

imagine that would

make Lia let go of her...

Iron grip on the kitchen.

Okay, here we go!

- Last stop.

- And this one is my favourite.

Oh, don't speak too soon.

Mr. Ryder, top floor,

no elevator.

Lia.

I had to check the clock

to make sure I hadn't

lost track of time.

- You're early.

- We had a slight

scheduling snafu. Is that okay?

Sure. I was just about

to leave for my book club.

How about them stairs?

Quite a workout. Keeps me young.

Since I retired, I need

all the help I can get.

Well, I bet they do

if they don't k*ll you first.

Mr. Ryder was my high school

science teacher.

He was the first one to explain

emulsification to me.

And I've been reaping

the benefits in Hollandaise

ever since.

I miss being around

young people,

to tell you the truth.

Uh, Mr. Ryder, would you mind

if I got a photo of us?

It's for an application

to deliver meals

for a summer camp program.

- Happy to.

- Okay.

I was also Lia's

first customer.

Oh, well you were smart

to get in while you could.

I'm still on the waiting list.

- If you can just squeeze it...

- Allow me.

I've been working

on my selfie skills

for that online dating thing.

- Oh.

- Come on, young fella.

Oh, thanks,

but I'm not really...

- Get in the picture.

- Okay.

Yes, you are.

- Oh, just your hair.

- What?

All right now,

say Hollandaise.

Hollandaise.

Oh.

Oh, excuse me,

I should take this.

- Hello?

- Good to see you finally

hired on more help, Lia.

Oh, no, he's just

helping me with the application.

- Just helping?

- It's like that, is it?

About time, if you ask me.

No, no, no,

it's not like that.

It's really not like that.

If you say so. I better get

these in the ice box.

- Okay, sounds good.

- Thank you, Mr. Ryder.

Thank you.

Bye.

Really appreciate everything

that you're doing.

Thanks, Lia.

- Sorry, Lia...

- Oh.

Forgot to give you

back your phone.

Could not resist taking pictures

of such a good-looking couple.

Oh, Mr. Ryder!

If you send me those pictures,

I can add them to

the application tonight.

Yeah. Okay, will do.

Oh, hey.

What's Mr. Ryder's extra

with his meals?

Well, can't you guess?

Online dating tips.

Okay, the application

is complete.

Vendors listed,

documents included,

pictures of happy

customers attached.

We're ready to go.

Would you like to do

the honours?

Oh. Okay.

Um...

Here

we

go! And it's off!

Just like I should be

or I'm gonna be late for class.

Good luck, Lia.

Bye, Fay.

Everything okay?

Yeah!

I'm just being silly.

But I kind of wanted a

big congratulations,

or fireworks,

or even just a smiling

hedgehog meme.

Well,

maybe they saved the memes

for when you actually

get the job.

No, I'm just being silly.

It's just even getting

the application done

is so hard.

It's not that you don't think

you can do the job, is it?

If you don't think you can,

you should've said

something earlier.

No. No. I'll figure it out.

I always do. I told you,

I'm just being silly.

Okay.

- Uh, talk soon.

- Okay.

- Bye.

- Bye.

You know what, Uncle Eli?

I think I'm gonna

really like camp.

They have swimming every day.

Really? That's awesome.

- And they have crafts.

- And games.

- Great.

- And I'll get to see Miss Lia

from downstairs for lunch

every day too.

- You like Miss Lia, huh?

- She's nice.

It's too bad you can't

be friends.

What makes you think

we can't be friends?

You're always having

spirited discussions.

Just because we don't

always agree,

doesn't mean

we can't be friends.

And she doesn't have

the job yet.

So let's keep our fingers

crossed, okay?

Does that mean you won't

be around as much?

It might mean our schedules

have to change.

- Change a little?

- Maybe even a lot,

I just don't know yet, okay?

Okay. Can I see my hair now?

Uh, well, okay...

Yeah, I'm sorry.

Braiding hair isn't

something uncles

generally have a lot

of experience with.

But hey, maybe we can call

your friend Samantha or her mom

to show us how it's done?

She wears braids in her hair

all the time, right?

- It's okay, Uncle Eli.

- I bet Cousin May can do it

for me next time I see her.

Hi.

Miss Lia!

Ivy!

- So nice to see you.

- And Jolene?

- And Jolene too and Uncle Eli.

- Hi.

Hi. So you guys are

back here again too?

Oh yes, Ivy insisted after

she heard about her trip.

- Oh.

- And we found a new

- booth for you!

- A booth? For me?

- I'll show you where it is.

- Okay.

- It's this way.

- Okay.

Let's go.

Is Ivy excited

for summer camp?

Yes. But her going is still

a bit up in the air.

Oh, how?

Oh, just waiting on some final

details to work themselves out.

I hope. Otherwise, I might have

to work and parent full-time.

Ooh.

Well, I'm sure

you'll figure it out.

You're a great dad.

Uh, uncle. Unc-dad?

- Duncle?

- Duncle it is.

Here we are. This is what

we wanted to show you.

Oh, this is perfect!

I've been so busy,

I've been running low.

Thank you, Ivy.

Thank you.

Uh, do you want to help me

pick out which ones?

- Sure.

- Okay.

Perfect. This one looks

almost like Mrs. Lee's

little dog, Henry.

- Wanna help too, Uncle Eli?

- Sure.

Yeah, come help.

Oh, I just got a call...

Hello, this is Lia Thompson

of the Loving Spoonful.

Anne, hi.

I'm so glad you liked

my application.

Yes, I am absolutely available

to come in and interview

and bring some sample meals.

When works for you?

That would be the day

after tomorrow?

No, I absolutely understand

your time crunch,

I am happy to do it.

Thank you for the opportunity.

Okay, I'll see you then.

Camp Fernway wants

to interview me!

Thought they would.

Oh my gosh,

there's so much to do.

I have to make the sample meals

and review the interview

questions.

I should get back to the store

and get started

on this right away.

- Thank you, Ivy.

- No problem.

You too. Thank you

so much for everything.

- Okay, bye!

- Bye.

Uncle Eli...

- Can I get these?

- Sure. What are they for?

It's a surprise.

Okay.

Those two, please.

That's not really

special enough.

That's not really for kids.

There has to be something...

I got everything on the list

for your sample meals.

How is the quest

for the extras coming?

Not great, actually.

Maybe this will

change your mind.

Ivy?! Eli? Hi.

I ran into them on the way in.

Go on.

I made it for you so we could

be at day camp together.

- Oh, Ivy, come here.

- It's so sweet.

Thank you.

Oh, Ivy, this really

is just what I needed.

Do you think you could make

more of these?

Yes? Okay.

This could be the extras

for the summer camp,

cards of encouragement

and support.

It's certainly special enough.

And kid friendly.

But is it scalable?

I'm not sure about turning Ivy

into a cottage industry.

No, of course not.

It won't be just Ivy,

it would be all of the kids

making them for each other.

It could be part

of the craft time?

And it goes along with

the camp's focus

on community. Brilliant.

All right, now I just need

the meals and interview

to match.

Then let's get to work.

Yeah, Uncle Eli,

let's get to work!

Well, hey, I thought cards

were your department?

- Yeah, but spelling's yours.

- I'm only nine.

- She got me.

- Let's go.

Ah, I thought I saw the lights

still on in here.

- Eli. What are you doing here?

- What about Ivy?

Oh, I thought you could

use some more help, so,

I dug out that.

I just have the parfaits left.

Well, that sounds about right

for my cooking skills.

- Can I help?

- Sure.

I'm surprised you still

have that,

Ivy's a bit big

for a baby monitor.

Oh, she was too old

for it when I bought it.

She was already six

when she came to live with me

after her mom passed away.

Sorry about your sister.

Thanks.

She was my older sister.

You know, we used to joke

that she was such a good mom

because she had me

to practise on first.

I was so scared I was really

gonna screw everything up.

Ivy almost didn't come

to live with me.

Who else would she go to?

My cousin, May.

She was already raising two

great kids with her husband

but now they live a couple

hours outside the city

and at the time,

it seemed like too big a change

for Ivy and she was already

more comfortable with me.

And now?

Now, I am not so sure.

I just don't know if I can

raise her the right way.

- She's a great kid.

- You are doing a great job.

You know, there's not just

one right way to do anything.

- Yeah.

- But really, you could...

It's like these parfaits.

You could do yoghurt, mango,

yoghurt, mango, granola

the traditional way.

Aw, bet it wears a little suit

and tie to work and everything.

But then, you could do

blueberries, yoghurt, mango,

granola strawberries.

What? That's pure madness.

Well, pure deliciousness.

And then if you're getting

really crazy,

you could do chocolate chips,

mango, granola, strawberries,

coconut... puffed rice

and apple sauce.

Where does the yoghurt go?

Oh. Right here.

Oh, not bad. Mm!

Mm, not bad at all.

Actually, I think I have

one more improvement for this.

Oh, no, I don't think

that's a good idea.

Oh, I think

it's a very good idea.

Okay, not the nose, not the...

- Mm! That is good.

- Right?

Oh, you have a little

something here.

- Where?

- Just, um...

It's right...

- Oh, is she...

- Talking in her sleep?

I think.

I should probably

check on her just in case.

- Will you still be here?

- Um...

I'll be fine, I've just got

the parfaits to finish up.

- You saw how easy that is.

- Right!

There's no wrong way

to do those.

Well, um...

- Good night, Lia.

- Good night.

- See you tomorrow.

- Tomorrow it is.

- See you tomorrow.

- Yes. Tomorrow.

- Sleep tight.

- Okay.

Hey. How are you,

are you ready?

Uh, yep.

Okay, just like you practised.

You're gonna do great.

And if you need me,

I'll be right here.

Thank you.

- Okay. Let's do this.

- Okay.

Hi I am Lia Thompson

of the Loving Spoonful.

We put the keen in zucchini.

I started the Loving Spoonful

because I wanted to create

delicious meals that bring

people together

or just brighten their day.

Today, we have some charcuterie

boxes for you to sample.

All of our suppliers

are locally sourced.

And what's this?

That would be

my signature feature.

I like to include

a little extra.

For the summer camp,

I thought that the kids

could make cards like these

for each other.

These cards are actually made

by one of your future campers.

It says, "Have a grape day."

It's cute.

So, how do you think it's going?

Well, they seem to be

too busy eating to talk,

so that's always good.

Lia, we're ready for you now.

Your sample meals were

delicious and camper-friendly.

And the cards were

an inspired idea.

Well, I'm so glad you enjoyed

them and the meals.

- We do have a few questions.

- We're a nut-free camp

due to some camper's allergies,

will that be a problem?

Our kitchen

is already nut-free.

Excellent. The only other

real concern we have

is Camp Fernway

would significantly

increase the size

of your business overnight.

What's your strategy for such

a sudden and large expansion?

My strategy to deal with

a large and sudden shift is, um,

scalability. That's right,

that's one of the best things

about my company,

is it's scalability... ness.

Um... What I'm really saying

is that I have a system.

I have spent a lot of time

figuring out what works

and what doesn't work.

I only need to do more

of the same in order to expand.

Excellent.

I think that answers

all our questions?

- Yes.

- Lia,

we would be happy to offer you

the contract for Camp Fernway.

Okay, thank you so much!

I won't let you

or the kids down.

- Can you start today?

- Uh...

Uh, Lia would love to start

right away,

she just needs a deposit.

I do?

Oh, yes, I do.

- Great.

- We'll see you for lunch.

Okay. Bye.

- You did it!

- You were so great.

You were so great!

I can't believe that camp

starts so soon.

Yeah, what a surprise.

At least now I can tell Ivy

she really will be here

every day

seeing you at lunch time.

Great thing

for the advance, huh?

Oh, yeah,

it'll be a life saver.

Um, well, why don't you

stop by the store later

and I'll have

your payment ready?

- I'll see you later.

- Okay.

What's got Eli so down?

What's got you so down?

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

I'm excited, I'm... so excited.

So unconvincing.

Mr. Herrara, hi.

I just wanted to let

you know that I just

made my payment to my taxes

and my account is now up to date

so you won't be coming to get

my pots and my pans and my stove

because I'm really quite fond

of them now and...

I'm just so glad that everything

is under control again.

Thank you.

Ugh.

Well, almost everything.

Okay... um...

Okay.

Oh.

Ow!

Whoa!

Was that a 21-g*n salute or

are you just happy to see me?

- Eli!

- Hi.

Hi! What are you doing here?

You, uh... told me I could

come by for my cheque,

but I can come back later

if this is a bad time.

Oh. No, it's not as bad

as it looks.

Is it worse?

Oh! Uh...

Oh!

- Ooh! Uh, oven mitts!

- Oven mitts!

Oh... Oh, thank you!

Oh, boy.

Ooh, I think

I'm having deja pastry.

Lia, you're not trying

to do this all alone, are you?

I just haven't had time

to interview other people.

- I have to say that...

- Eli! I'm sorry,

I don't have time for

one of your lectures right now.

I've got 50 boxed lunches

and three new batches,

of cookies, and a mountain

of dishes and...

Uh, what? What are you doing?

As your project manager,

I should at least make sure

you survive your first day.

Ha! You don't have to do that.

It's all part of the service.

And besides,

Ivy is really looking forward

to seeing you at lunch today.

Let's start with the cleanup!

Thank you.

Be right back.

Lia!

I got back here as fast

as I could. How much time

do we have to...

Are these all the lunches?

Ahead of time.

Just how did

this miracle happen?

I may have had some help.

I think this

is the last of them.

Hey.

I should have known.

You got those?

Yeah, I'm good. Oh!

- You got 'em.

- Oh, thank you.

Okay.

Lia! You're right on time.

Wonderful.

I've got the first batch

of cards from the campers.

They had so much

fun making them.

Well, that's so great to hear.

Eli, I didn't expect you here.

Oh. I thought I'd check

to see how Ivy's doing.

- She's having a wonderful time.

- Great.

Uh, though we do

have some concerns

with the stuffed animal.

By the time kids are old enough

to come to camp,

they're usually okay leaving

their security friends at home.

You know, before our move,

she only needed Jolene at night,

but ever since,

she's taken her everywhere.

Ivy's a great kid.

And Jolene is always

welcome here.

But you might want

to bring it up with Ivy,

for Jolene's sake.

Camp can be really tough

on stuffed animals.

You know,

all the mud and sports.

There's lots of chances

for them to get lost.

Thanks, I'll...

I'll try to speak

to her about it.

Uncle Eli!

- Hey!

- What are you doing here?

Well, I stopped by to see

how your first day was going.

- Great.

- Well, that's awesome.

Maybe Jolene is

a little bit tired.

Maybe she'd be safer at home.

Or you can keep her

for the rest of the day.

Think about it, okay?

Okay.

Really? Uh-huh.

Yeah!

Maybe there's something else

you can help me out with.

Could you point me

in the direction

of the arts and crafts table?

Yeah? Should we?

One, two, three, go!

Is there room for one

more under this tree?

There's plenty of trunk

for everyone.

Even leftovers too.

What's this?

It's a smiling hedgehog,

of course.

- Oh.

- Okay, my...

You did this?

Yeah, my glitter pen work

could use a little practise.

I just figured you always

go above and beyond

to make other people smile.

I thought it was time someone

did a little something

extra for you.

Well, I think you've done

way more than

a little extra for me.

Well...

What you do is really

something special.

The Loving Spoonful

deserved the...

Excuse me, deserved the help.

Sorry.

Don't take this the wrong way,

but you seem almost

as tired as I feel.

Just haven't had much sleep.

I guess your worries about Ivy

aren't really helping much either.

Mm.

I mean, look at her.

She's happy and healthy.

Maybe you can just relax,

just for a little bit.

Maybe a good idea.

Yeah.

Yeah, just for a moment.

Rise and shine, campers!

Oh, sorry. I'm sorry,

sorry about that.

No, no, it was my fault. I...

- Ivy, what...

- what are you doing here?

You're supposed to be at lunch.

Lunch is over. And so is camp!

What? Oh no!

I slept through clean up!

Fay's going to be

furious with me.

She's going to be livid.

She's going to be...

"Happy to have handled

clean up and went back

to the kitchen

to finish meal prep."

Fay's a good employee

and a great friend.

She really is.

Oh, she also said it's obvious

that we should've slept to...

- Hm?

- Uh...

Rest up. Rest up together

at the same time.

- Yes. Very astute of her.

- Yes.

- Well, Ivy.

- I guess we should be on our way.

Can we stop at the swings

on the way home?

And can Miss Lia come, too?

Please? Please? Please?!

- Okay, sure, we can.

- But Lia is very busy

and she needs to...

- Actually, you know what?

- I'm not.

Fay's got it all

under control so a round

of swings sounds great.

Hey!

Yeah!

Now help me up.

- Oh, thank you!

- Please.

You know what? I can't

remember the last time

she actually took a nap.

She's had a long day.

Yeah, well, she'll probably

just sleep for an hour

and then wake up ravenous.

Mm...

I'll teach you how to make

one of my specialties.

That's incredibly generous,

but you should rest

on your afternoon off.

I already did!

Besides, it'll be fun

and fun is as good as sleep.

So... now what to make?

Ah!

If you up your

pancake game, I'll be sure

to get more sleep.

No more smoke alarm

wake up calls.

Uh...

No one said this

is an advanced class.

- Don't worry.

- We'll start with the basics

and work our way up.

- And the first step is always...

- Order delivery?

Precautions!

I can't tell you

how many of my clothes

have ended up looking like

Jackson Pollock originals.

Are you sure you don't need

this for your staff?

This is a cooking class,

not business admin.

You know, I think I know

what's going on here.

You've never had

to delegate before.

Ha! Yeah. Right. Delegate.

Now's a good time to practice!

You tell me what to do

and I'll do it.

Okay. Just let me just get

the batter together and...

Is "delegate" another word

we have different meanings for?

Sit.

Come on!

It's not gonna k*ll you.

There you go,

that wasn't so hard.

Now

try, learn, grow.

And you'll do the same?

Mm-hmm.

Okay, let's see how this goes!

Okay.

Where do we begin?

Um, hey Fay, what's up?

We have a problem.

Anne just dropped off the roster

for the camp's second sessions

starting in two weeks,

and it's

longer.

I just sent you a schedule.

They probably pick up more

kids as the summer goes on.

Schools get out at different

times, and parents sign up kids

after vacations.

But...

This is twice as many kids!

Twice as many lunches!

You'll just have to stop

putting it off

and hire more help.

No. No, I can make this work.

I just caught off today,

I forgot about Fay's

evening classes.

And you know, your semester

ends soon and with the three

of us working together...

Lia, you know I'd love

to help, but I have other work.

And semester break is only

a few weeks before

summer session starts.

I can put you in contact

with some employment agencies.

- I can just work harder and I...

- Lia!

- And I can figure it out...

- Lia!

Why are you resisting what

you know has to happen?

Because...

Um...

Because I can't...

I can't afford

to hire more staff.

What about the advance

from the camp?

It went to pay

my overdue taxes.

I had to do it,

otherwise the city would

seize my stove and everything

else not nailed down!

I'm gonna come down there,

I'll call you.

I'll just, I'll talk

to you in a minute.

I finally had everything

worked out.

Ivy could go to camp

and I could work during the day.

What does this

have to do with Ivy?

Instead of paying

me to find them a vendor,

the camp waived Ivy's fees

for the summer,

but only as long

as the vendor I found them

actually kept up their

end of the deal.

Well, why didn't you

tell me any of this?

It was between

me and the camp,

it's none of your concern!

Why didn't you tell me

about the taxes?

Why didn't you tell me

about the numbers going up?

I didn't know!

Why didn't you tell me

you knew you couldn't hire

more staff to begin with?

Because it's my business,

it's my problem!

No, no, no, it's my business

and my problem now, too.

I can't take care of Ivy

all day and do the work

I need to support us.

And if I can't support us...

I can't keep Ivy.

Eli. I'm sorry, I...

Yeah.

Well, if we can't figure out

a solution,

we're both going to be sorry.

You should have said something

about the taxes sooner.

But it's none of his

business! It's my taxes!

My business! My concern!

You know?

I didn't mean you should have

said something to Eli.

I meant you should have

said something to me.

Oh.

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

- I'm not just your employee.

- I'm your friend.

You could have said something.

I would have helped.

- I know you would have.

- I don't know why...

Then figure it out.

Lia, you're about to lose

everything here.

I can't! The Loving

Spoonful means...

I'm not just talking

about the business, Lia.

It's obvious to anyone with eyes

that there's something

going on between you and Eli.

Neither one of you can bring

yourself to admit

what everybody knows.

Well, maybe it's

for the best then.

Yeah.

Because not admitting the truth

is really working

for you so far, huh?

- Hi, you've reached May.

- Leave a message.

Hey, May. It's Eli.

I've been thinking...

Maybe it would be a good idea

if Ivy came to live with you.

Permanently, I mean.

I can't parent full-time

with my new gig.

And it's not just childcare

that's the problem.

I'm not sure I can

give Ivy everything she needs

as a little girl growing up.

It's not even about

what I don't know.

It's about what

I don't know I don't know.

I mean, look, I know it's a big

decision and we'll have

to talk it out.

Oh!

May, May, I'll have

to call you back.

Mr. Ryder, thank you.

I didn't even see him coming.

You were pretty deep

in that conversation.

Yeah.

You know, I'm a pretty

good listener if you need

to talk about something.

Nothing I have to be doing

and, well, nowhere I have to be.

Let me guess,

about a woman?

- Yes. No, no.

- More of a work problem.

Is everything okay with Lia?

Maybe it could be.

Mr. Ryder. I need

to make some calls right away,

but thank you for the talk.

It was a lot of help.

Always happy to help.

Oh!

And if you have the time,

there is one thing

you could do to help Lia.

Well, name it.

Actually, two to three months

for a business loan approval

doesn't work for me.

I'm looking for more

in the two to three-day range.

I'm so glad I could brighten

your day.

Yes, I hope your coworkers

find it just as funny.

Um... welcome to the Loving

Spoonful. We put the "holla"

in jalape

no.

You want me to go?

Come on in.

Good,

because I have

a proposal for you.

Oh, because the last one

worked so well?

Well, I figured we got into

this mess together so we'll

have to get out the same way.

Okay.

What do you propose?

Ridge way is one of the biggest

food service companies

in the country.

They administer and supply

food services for hospitals,

airlines, government agencies

and more.

Now, a friend from

my last job landed

in their acquisitions

department.

They're very interested

in the Loving Spoonful.

What does a big company

like Ridge way care about

what I'm doing over here?

I told them all about you.

Your food, your clients,

your extras.

They want to partner with you.

How so?

They want to expand

the Loving Spoonful.

So from spoonful

to a ladleful?

You'll develop the recipes

and meals, which Ridge way

will produce and ship

anywhere in the country,

all with your charming extras.

And what does Ridge way want

for all this partnership?

Well, it is supposed

to be a partnership.

What do they want?

A share in the company,

a significant one.

And an agreement you'll only

use their products.

Like this?

This is what you want me

serving the kids, Eli?

Ridge way has lots

of trained nutritionists

on staff and you can make sure

the lunches are balanced

and healthy.

I can't believe you would

even suggest this.

You could go nationwide!

No, I can't!

I can't do that

and do what I do.

Eli, you have to meet people

where they are to understand

what they really need.

Otherwise all the extras

and whatever, it's just junk!

I'm trying to save

your business.

By what, destroying it?

This isn't about me.

This is about you.

You don't care about me

or my business.

All you care about is Ivy

getting to camp.

Lia, no matter what happens

with The Loving Spoonful,

Ivy is most likely not going

to stay at camp.

Why? Eli, what's going on?

I'm...

I'm pretty sure

it would be best

if she went to live with May.

Eli.

Why would you even think that?

That...

That little girl loves you.

- I love her, too.

- But that's not the issue.

May can give her what she needs

better than I can.

Well, have you talked

to Ivy about this?

You don't let a nine-year-old

make decisions about

things like this.

Well, you can talk to her

and you can find out

what she needs

instead of just what you

imagine is important. You can...

I'm sorry if I offended you.

I really am.

But I was trying to help in

the only way I could think of.

Everybody I've ever worked with

got to the point where they had

to let go to grow,

or even survive, as a business.

Everybody.

But you're so scared.

You'd rather run this place

into the ground

than give up any control.

And that's too bad.

Because this place...

It really is something

special, Lia.

Eli, I...

Okay...

Cutting it a little

close today, huh?

Yes, we are right on time.

We are running like a precision

machine. Just like that!

Anyway, you get the idea.

Must have gotten some hummus

on there or something.

Okay, great. Just, uh

not any more precise,

if you please.

You do not want to see these

kids when they're really hungry.

That's right...

Just precise enough.

Not too precise.

You know I can't

take Eli's deal.

It's just...

Hey, honey.

Can I talk to you

about something?

Sure.

Oh. Sorry.

What are you doing, Uncle Eli?

Uh, well, Lia said...

Ah... I, uh

should meet you

where you are, so here I am.

Ivy, do you want to tell me

what happened with you

and your friend Samantha?

Samantha and me got into a

spirited discussion.

Mm-hmm, I see.

She got mad at me that we're

moving out of the building

and said we'd never

see each other again.

Then she said she'd have

to get a new best friend.

And then I got really mad

and said I didn't even want

her as a friend at all!

And then what happened?

We moved away and I never

saw her again.

You know,

I just got off the phone

with Samantha's mom

and Sam is going

to go to Camp Fernway

for the next session, too.

Would you like

to be friends again?

Maybe.

But I don't know how.

I bet if you started

something,

the two of you could

figure it out together.

Maybe if I made her

a card, like we do at camp?

Thanks, Uncle Eli!

You're the best!

You know, I should have

realized something was wrong

between you two girls sooner.

It's okay!

Well, actually, Ivy,

I don't think it is.

What would you think about

going to Cousin May's?

Like for another visit?

No, I mean

to live there.

Why would I do that?

Well, you'd live in

a house with a big yard.

And Cousin May's girls

could be like your sisters.

I guess.

And Cousin May knows about

lots of stuff I don't.

Like braiding hair

and what to do when you might be

having a fight with a friend.

But we can figure

that stuff out too!

We're smart cookies!

We are.

But also, Ivy,

there's my schedule.

I might have to work more hours,

or sometimes even travel.

Uncle Eli

are you trying to get rid of me?

Oh, Ivy, no.

Good, because

I belong with you.

Um, welcome to The Loving

Spoonful. We put the, um

in the...

Ah. Sorry, I'm fresh

out of puns today.

Uh, "fond" in fondue?

That is a good one.

But what are you doing here,

Mr. Ryder?

I usually deliver to you.

That's what I'm here about.

I ran into that young man

of yours, and...

Oh, he's not...

And he mentioned that, well,

maybe you're having the teeniest

bit of trouble with staffing,

and that if I had the time,

well, maybe I could pick up my

meals and certainly have a...

He mentioned that? Did he?

Did he also tell you about

the trouble with my taxes?

And the trouble with

my camp contract,

and trouble with keeping

my business from being

completely and totally ruined?

Um...

No. Didn't mention any of that.

But maybe you should tell me

about it yourself.

That's when Eli told

me that The Loving Spoonful

is really special.

And then he walked out,

and I haven't heard

from him since.

I can't say I know much

about being in business.

Here's what I do know.

I was married

to the same amazing lady

for 40 wonderful years.

- I didn't know that.

- That's awesome.

And the only time

we ever got in real trouble

was when one of us needed to...

Well, needed to grow

in some way.

One of us wanted to hold back.

I resisted going back

for my advanced teacher

credits like the stubbornest

mule you ever met.

Because I meet

so many of those.

It made Laura Jane so mad.

I half-expected

to come home some night

and find the locks changed.

Well, mules are notoriously

bad lock pickers.

Hooves, you know?

But once I finally

got over myself and did

what I knew I needed to,

Laura Jane was there backing

me up one thousand percent.

Well,

that's a really

beautiful story, Mr. Ryder.

And completely besides

the point!

I'm not in a relationship

with Eli. Or a business!

Well, if not one,

maybe the other?

At least figuring it out

will keep you busy.

I don't mind saying I...

I envy you that.

I thought you were excited

about going into retirement.

I was!

I thought I'd have time

to look around me

and maybe meet someone new.

But it turns out you can't

keep dating all the time.

Makes you look like a player.

You are too much of

a gentleman to ever

look like a player.

True that!

But all play and no work

makes Jack a dull boy.

You know I think that

what you said about business

and relationships

is true...

For us!

Don't you go falling

for my charms, missy.

You're too young for me.

If not one,

then maybe the other?

And maybe some of your friends

from the book club, too?

Come on, Ivy.

Cousin May is waiting.

Wait!

Oh.

Oh, I'll miss you.

I'll miss you too.

I still can't believe

what a brilliant solution

you came up with.

I've had a lot of help.

I know, but

now you can honour

the contract with the camp,

you can keep all

of our old clients

and finally take on

some new ones.

Let's make sure

we can walk before we run.

I've made a lot of changes,

and probably a few more to come.

Oh, and I still have

to figure out how to...

What?

Nothing.

Just a teddy bear

walking by with

a lady and a suitcase.

A suitcase?! Oh no, he didn't!

What are you...

Ivy?

Lia?

Eli! You don't have

to do this.

I'm going to keep

the summer camp contract,

I promise.

You don't have to send Ivy away

to live with your cousin!

It's okay.

Ivy's just gone to visit May

and her family for the weekend.

Ah! Oh, she is? I'm so glad!

Well, since

I have a free weekend,

maybe we could get together?

And find a way to solve your

staffing problem for the camp.

For the sake of your business.

Of course! And for Ivy!

I see how much she loves

being at summer camp.

That too.

Eli, I, um...

Morning deliveries went great!

Heading out with

the second load.

See ya later, partner.

That's what I was

trying to tell you.

I solved my staffing problem.

Oh! That's great!

That's really great.

Hey, I know I was way

off base with Ridge way.

Even when I was telling

you about it,

I knew it was all wrong.

But a partnership

was the only solution

I could come up with.

Eli, you

were right.

Partnership was the solution.

Okay, maybe not with

Ridge way Foods,

but it worked.

I sold small shares

of my company to Mr. Ryder

and a couple of his friends

from the retired teachers'

book club in exchange

for part-time work.

They love the opportunity

to get out and interact

with kids again.

And they can get a share

of the profits at

the end of the season.

And you're okay with selling

off shares of the company?

More than letting down

the kids and shutting down

the business for good.

Well, it seems like you've

got everything under control.

I have to thank you

for the idea.

I never would have

thought of it.

And for telling Mr. Ryder

to come by and pick up

his deliveries.

Uh, and I have

to thank you, too.

What you said about

meeting Ivy where she was,

it helped.

A lot.

Oh, good. I'm glad.

Well, I now seem

to have a free weekend

with nothing to do.

So I guess I better, um...

Go find something.

Oh, okay.

- Okay!

- Okay.

- Bye.

- Bye!

Uh, enjoy your something.

Yep, thanks.

So this is what the inside

of your mind looks like.

Seems like a pretty nice

place to be.

It's a start.

But I feel like

I'm missing something.

How can you know

if you can't remember it?

- I don't know.

- It just doesn't feel quite...

Right?

Okay.

- Can we see?

- Sure!

Eli!

I wanted to thank you

again for connecting us with

Lia and The Loving Spoonful.

We never had a better

food vendor.

Oh, well I can't take

the credit for any of that,

but I'm happy

it worked out so well.

Mm.

Here's your phone back,

Uncle Eli.

Oh, thanks.

Oh, hey, you forgot Jolene.

I really liked the photos

of you and Miss Lia!

Huh?

I was wondering

how you found Lia.

Oh, that's not...

Hm.

Still working

on the command centre?

Oh, yeah.

I'm sure I'll

figure it out soon.

You've already spent two weeks

rearranging push pins

and paper clips.

You could save yourself

a century and consult an expert

on business systems

and procedures.

Yeah, our budget's

still pretty tight.

Uh-uh.

That's not an excuse anymore.

We've already solved

that problem.

So, what's the real problem?

I just don't know

how to start.

With Eli?

Of course with Eli!

I know.

I just wanted to make

you finally say his name again.

If you don't know

how to start with Eli,

just ask yourself

what advice he would

give you about that.

Try...

Learn...

Grow.

Left to the middle,

right to the middle,

this is the way

our braid grows a little.

So, uh, where's Jolene?

I think she's in my bedroom.

Oh, my goodness.

What do you think?

I think we finally

figured it out!

High-five? Nice!

Can we eat pancakes

for dinner?

Have I created

a pancake monster?

Guess I better feed you then.

Did you and Miss Lia

get into another

spirited discussion?

Well...

Something like that.

You should try

to be friends again.

That's what you told me to do.

I know.

I'm just

not sure Lia wants

to be friends with me again.

You should try

to figure that out.

Uh-huh.

But you don't know how to.

You should take her advice.

I mean, it worked for me.

Just what advice

would that be?

Go meet her where she is

and find out what she wants.

You really are a smart cookie.

I know.

Smart enough to stay out

of trouble for a few minutes

while I go talk to Miss Lia?

Uncle Eli, I'm not a baby.

I'm nine years old!

That's what I thought.

Fay, I'll be right back

as soon as I give this to...

Eli!

- Hi.

- Hi.

Is, uh... Is now a good time?

- No, no, no.

- If you're rushing out, I can...

- No, now's a great time.

- Great.

Well, I just wanted to...

I... Actually, can I say

my piece first?

Yes, of course. Please, go on.

Thank you.

My instinct here

is to say "you're welcome",

but I'm not sure what for.

For pushing me to grow.

Now I want to grow more!

And only better this time,

and with a plan.

Which is

this.

"Mixed greens and quinoa

with salmon and lime

vinaigrette"?

Your plan for growing is

salad?

No, it's the extras. See?

It's a share in my company

in exchange for your

project management expertise.

So

that would make it

"our" system?

Yes.

Are you just offering me

a share of your business,

or a share of your

heart as well?

Because if you are offering me

a share of your heart too

it's the perfect start

to "our" way.

You already have

a share of mine.

Uncle Eli! Miss Lia!

What took you guys so long?!

That's what I want to know!