Grounded in Love (2025)

[bunniefuu]

I haven't seen you since the final four,

but you still owe me a dinner.

With everybody against Kentucky.

You betcha.

Annie?

Janice?

I thought you landed this morning.

Hey, we got stuck on the runway in Rome

for four hours thanks to what you out for.

Huh, well, good rain, good rain.

What?

Oh, something my grandpa used to say back

in the farm.

Anyway, I want to trade you a weather

delay for non-stop turbulence,

a wonky wheel on my drink cart,

and a parakeet.

A parakeet that got loose and took the

entire flight to get back in its carrier.

I once had an emotional support ferret get

loose and recapping.

The airline changed the policy after that.

Oh, what we put up with to see the world.

Right?

I am so ready for a weekend off.

That any fun plans?

Well, Stuart and I are spending a romantic

weekend together.

And he said he's taking me to a special

dinner tonight.

A very special dinner.

You've been dating almost seven months.

Do you think

it's... I don't know.

I don't know.

We've never even talked about it.

He's such a live-in-the-moment kind of

guy, but lately, I don't know.

Oops.

It's Bob.

He wants to see me in the conference room

ASAP.

Think it's about the merger?

It's been all over the news.

To be honest, I'm a little worried.

Me too.

You'll be fine.

You speak fluent Italian.

In bocca al Lupo.

Into the wolf's mouth.

It means good luck.

Thanks.

Well, it's done.

Hudson Airlines brought us out.

Effective immediately, I'm afraid.

They wanted a neat, clean cut.

So, what does that mean for me?

I tried my best.

But me only managed to save a few

attendants who speak dual languages.

Janice.

Good.

I'm happy for her.

I'm really sorry, Annie.

I know you're with us ten years.

You're one of the best flight attendants

we have.

Look, there's a good chance we can hire

you back.

Yeah, when would that be?

Three months, or six tops.

After all of this settles down.

Take time to enjoy life for a few months.

I'll call as soon as I can get you back.

Thank you.

Okay.

Hey.

Yeah, I understand.

We can discuss it from this weekend.

Thanks so much, Jack.

Jake, I am so happy to see you.

So, how's the conference going?

Well, it's been a lot of work.

Well, director of sales for your dad's

largest hotel.

That is a lot of responsibility.

I just love it so much, though.

It's like putting on a big show every

weekend.

But I'm afraid I'm going to have to

postpone my visit to Kentucky again.

I have meetings all weekend.

It's all right.

I understand.

But listen, I'm glad

that you're here because

I want to talk to you

about this in person.

My dad just secured an option to buy into

another large hotel here in Cincinnati.

And he wants you to manage it.

Come here, Mom.

This is an opportunity of a lifetime.

I appreciate the offer.

I really do.

But with all the time and energy that

would take, you know my plan.

Can't you save the farming for when you're

ready to slow down?

I think if you took this job, we could

work side by side every day.

Well, I thought you were

excited about working

side by side on the

project in Kentucky.

I am.

And I'm so committed to the farm-to-table

restaurant, but this opportunity came up

and you would be perfect.

At least think about it.

I'll think about it.

Look, I promise I'll get up to the farm as

soon as I can.

I'm so looking forward to the hay rides

and the cozy bonfires.

Give your parents my best.

Hello?

Hey, Neil.

We're all ready to close in our end.

We're just waiting on

approvals, and then all

that's left are signatures

on the final paperwork.

We agree this is a mutually beneficial

deal.

Jack, absolutely it is.

Hey, I'll just be... Oh.

Hey, man.

No, no, no, no, no.

It's all good.

It's all good.

No, I promise.

This is a really good time.

This is not something we should let go of.

Of course, of course.

I will see you soon.

Later, man.

Bye.

Sorry about that.

This Jack Carney connection could be huge.

He asked me to Miami this weekend to play

golf and meet his friends.

They could be worth even more than Jack.

This is my first weekend off in two

months.

I thought we were going to spend it

together.

But this could be the biggest meeting in

my life.

Yeah, no, I understand.

I know, I know.

It's important.

That's why I love you.

You're so free and understanding.

I booked us a table at Angela's Trattoria.

And, um... This is for you.

I'm finding myself wanting you with me all

the time.

Annie, will you move in with me?

They are beautiful.

I'm sorry, I'm just a little overwhelmed.

I, uh... I lost my job today.

The merger.

Oh, I'm so sorry.

At least you won't have to worry about

paying rent.

You know, or sharing a small apartment

with rotating roommates.

I could take care of you until you get

back on your feet.

It's a generous offer.

But I wasn't raised to live with a man

before marriage.

I mean, do you see marriage in our future?

I told you when we first started dating.

I don't know if I ever want to get

married.

I know, but I thought that's because you

hadn't met the right person.

Honestly, I'm just not sure.

Oh.

We should get going.

We're going to be late for our

reservation.

This isn't going to work for me.

I'm sorry, I can't do this.

Wait, what are you doing?

Hang on!

Come on, Annie.

Don't leave like this.

Make a mistake.

Oh!

Hey, Beulah, you all right?

Oh, hey there, Jake.

You know, one year I had a nine pound

sweet potato.

Nine pounds?

That's amazing.

Next up, beans, pumpkins, butternut

squash.

Oh, your summer vegetables do always take

first prize in the county fair.

Well... You know, my mom

would love to know your secret.

Maybe I ought to add a non-disclosure

clause to our little agreement.

Oh, won't say a word.

Promise.

I really appreciate you leasing out the

land to me.

I am all for your farming plans.

So no regrets about coming home yet?

Not at all.

You know, the banking world taught me a

lot, but this is my passion.

Proud of you, Jake.

Would you like a little sweet tea?

No, thank you.

Oh, please take some.

Yeah, well, don't mind if I do.

Thank you.

You know, I also heard on the news about

the Rowan air merger and the layoffs.

Isn't that the airline Annie works for?

Well, yes, it is.

Have you heard from her?

Oh, Annie doesn't usually call till Sunday

unless she's overseas.

No news is good news, right?

Yeah, I suppose so.

I'm just curious.

Is she familiar with our arrangement?

What happens on the farm is my business.

She doesn't get a say.

Thanks again.

I hope your aunt enjoys her blessings

basket.

Hey.

Jake.

Hey, Mom.

I thought that you were over at Beulah's

checking the fences.

Oh, I was.

I just needed to run out for some more

supplies.

Beulah said she'll call you about this

week's Sunday dinner.

Oh, well, I know we can expect Woody.

He's always happy to have a good home

cooked meal each week.

You weren't here, but he nearly married a

few years ago.

Really?

Mm-hmm.

Well, what happened?

She canceled at the last minute,

but then he scandalized the town by going

on his honeymoon anyway.

You can't force someone to love you back.

For his sake, I hope you want some more

fun.

Ooh.

Every woman's dream.

Fly fishing in the Everglades.

Yeah, it sounds like Woody, all right.

Aw, sweetheart.

Would you mind putting those boxes in the

back for me, please?

Not at all.

Thank you.

If I haven't said it a million times

already, it is so good to have you back home.

It's good to be home, Mom.

Sigh.

Eleven hours of driving so far.

Not too much longer, and I'll be home.

Why didn't you call Bob?

He would have gotten you a flight.

Eh, I wanted to drive, enjoy the scenery,

give me time to think.

I'm sorry about Stuart.

I sure ignored a lot of red flags along

the way.

You could have stayed here.

Our couch is super comfy.

I appreciate that.

But you heard Bob.

It could be as long as six months,

and even that's not for sure.

No one else is hiring right now,

so...

But, you know, I... I haven't

seen my grandma in a while.

How long are we due for a visit?

That's good that you're there,

then.

Just enjoy your time with her.

Yeah.

Hold it right there!

What are you.

Doing sneaking around like a thief in the

north?

What are you thinking?

You scared me to death!

You scared me, too?

Why didn't you call?

I did.

In fact, I left a message on your

voicemail.

Well, I didn't get it.

I did hit some spotty reception when I got

out of the city.

I could have called sooner.

Come here.

If I'd known you were coming,

I would have aired out the

bed in your room, would

have stocked up on groceries.

It's fine, really.

Did you drive straight through from New

York City?

Yes.

You go straight to your room and get some

rest.

After church tomorrow, we'll visit,

and you will tell me what's going on.

Thanks, Grandma.

Good night.

Oh, and we have a rooster now.

Time to rise and shine.

Center school is in one hour.

Oh, good, you're awake.

No, no, I'm not.

It's the Lord's day.

He deserves the first fruits.

So get moving.

I'd like to sit closer.

Morning.

Sorry.

Sorry.

Pastor Scott and his wife Mary Beth are

new to town by way of Colorado.

Good morning, my friends.

If you're new to our church, or maybe you

just haven't been in a long time,

I'd like to warmly welcome you and thank

you for joining us for worship.

This is the day that the Lord has made.

Let us rejoice and be glad.

I'm so excited about what the Lord is

doing this season.

Jake?

Annie Mae.

Just Annie.

Saw you at church earlier.

I didn't see you.

Well, he did hightail it out of there as

soon as the service ended.

Oh, yeah, well, I told my grandma I needed

some fresh air.

What are you doing here?

Ah, just bringing these chess pies for my

mom.

No, I mean, are you here for the weekend,

or I thought you lived in Cincinnati.

I actually moved back a few months ago.

Wow, I had no idea.

My turn.

What are you doing here?

I'm just visiting.

How long are you planning on staying?

Actually, a few months, at least.

I'm waiting for a call to get rehired by

the airline that bought mine out.

Sounds like you hit a bit of turbulence.

Yeah, I guess that's a good way to put it.

So you have any backup plans?

You know, in case they don't call?

Uh, I don't know.

I think maybe something in hospitality.

Thanks for the vote of confidence.

Yeah, I should probably deliver these

before my mom calls a search party.

Yeah.

You coming?

Yeah.

This all looks delicious.

And you do this every week?

Every Sunday after church, Evelyn and I

started it when she lost her husband five

years ago, and I lost my friend two years

ago.

Well, I'm sorry for you both.

Thank you.

It can be a lonesome thing for us widowed

folks.

And now everybody who finds themselves

alone on a Sunday is welcome.

It gives us something to look forward to.

We love being around these young people.

As long as I'm able, there's food on the

table.

Look who I found out by the rock wall.

Oh, Annie!

Oh!

Is this your daughter?

Annie is Beulah's granddaughter.

But I feel like I partially raised her.

She and Jake were together so much they

were just like brother and sister.

Annie, happy to have you join us.

This is Pastor Scott.

I was wondering whose car had the New York

plates.

Yeah, it's a rental.

So nice to meet you.

Lovely service today.

Thank you.

And you remember Woody?

Yes, of course.

Good to see you again.

You too.

Wait till you try Evelyn's chest pie.

A blue ribbon winner at the county fair

three years in a row.

Beulah, I have the same recipe you do.

It's a secret ingredient.

And she won't tell us.

Well, chest pie is my favorite,

so I cannot wait to try it.

It's my favorite table.

I'm just so happy that we're all together.

Pastor, will you say grace for us?

Absolutely.

Let's all join hands and bow our heads.

I can't believe you do all this cooking

every week, Grandma.

I mean, have you thought about maybe doing

it just once a month?

Or a potluck, so not all the burden's on

you?

They look forward to a home-cooked meal.

It's a treat for them.

Yeah.

It's a gift that Evelyn and I can give.

The arrangement suits us, and we enjoy it.

Okay, well, if you're

gonna do all this work every

week, have you thought

about getting a dishwasher?

Save some time?

Every other week?

And I never minded.

I do some of my best thinking when I'm

washing dishes.

You didn't tell me Jake moved back home.

Is it a problem?

Well, it's just...

we hadn't run into each other in a while,

and I was just surprised.

The bank that he was working for offered

him a promotion.

He turned it down and moved home.

Why would he do that?

Jake wants to pursue other options.

You can hear the rest from him.

Well, I better get going.

I'll bring you a mess of turnip Greens

when I come by to fix the chicken Coop.

Thank you.

Can you do something about the rooster?

Turn his volume down or something?

I think there's a volume dial under his

waddles.

I'll see what I can do.

Great.

Thanks again for dinner.

Well, you were delighted, Woody.

Thank you.

See you later.

Jake?

Hi, I'm off as well, but I

will be by in the morning

to check on the cattle

and the men on the fences.

Sounds good.

In fact, Annie here will come help you

out.

You know the role.

Everyone on the farm pitches in.

Yep.

Okay, uh, great.

See you bright and early.

Yeah, can't wait.

Why is he doing all that?

Because he has cows.

He's leasing the land, and he's repairing

the fences.

Okay, I know you didn't tell me about

that.

I didn't feel the need.

Your business is up in the air,

and mine is on the ground.

This is my farm, and I'll take care of it

as I please.

Water down coffee.

What I wouldn't give for an Italian

cappuccino about now.

What?

Grandma.

Hey, cowboy.

Hey.

Well, you look great, as always.

Thanks.

A little grumpy, maybe.

Too worthy for you?

Come on.

I travel across multiple time zones every

week.

Sometimes multiple times a day.

So, can you just explain something to me?

Why are you running cattle on our farm?

And I hope you have more than two bulls in

your herd?

Very funny.

The cows are grazing in the south pasture.

You left your job for this?

It's always been a part of my long-term

plan.

I saved up enough money, and now I can

pursue my real passion in farming.

Well, you're really serious about this,

aren't you?

Yeah.

I mean, aside from managing the land,

farmers are doing a lot of very innovative

things with their empty tobacco barns

nowadays by creating lodging for people

who want farm stays, I mean, even

restaurants.

It's a way to really connect people to the

land.

It does seem like a waste to have the barn

sitting here empty, but a house is plenty

for grandma to manage.

In fact, I've been thinking

it's probably time for her

to sell the farm and just

move to town and simplify.

Whoa, whoa, whoa.

Wait a minute.

And what is she going to do?

Well, the same thing she does now.

Garden and cook Sunday dinners for the

church crowd.

Look, even with you helping out,

everywhere you look, something needs to be

repainted or repaired.

She does too much for her age.

Well, you know, the barn isn't actually

empty.

What do you mean?

Woody's a part-time horse trader.

He stables his horses

in the barn in return for

doing work around the

farm for your grandma.

Huh.

Grandma didn't tell me that either.

Huh.

Want to give me a hand?

Well, let's see.

The Kentucky Mint Julep is popular,

and so is the Kentucky Harvest.

I want to get Annie

something that would make her

feel like she's back in one

of her fancy hotel rooms.

Oh.

Well, in that case, I recommend the

lavender luxury soap.

Smell.

She is going to feel like she's in a grand

French hotel.

Good.

So how is Annie?

Uh... It makes sense

for her to come home for

a spell, what with no

job, but why so sudden?

Feels a little desperate to me, like she's

running from something or somebody.

I always thought flight attendants must

have such an exciting life.

Oh, I never like to spend one night away

from my bed.

How Annie flits from one hotel to another,

I will never understand.

Is she still dating that handsome Wall

Street investor?

She didn't tell me anything about

anything.

Annie was always her grandpa's girl.

She confided everything in him.

If Fred were here, he would know what to

say and do.

Well, I'm sure that Annie will share when

she's ready.

Time will tell.

Mm-hmm.

Any word from Bob?

He's doing everything he can to get you

back.

He's really pulling for you.

That's encouraging.

Being here reminds me why I got out.

I forgot how quiet it is here.

Except for the rooster.

Oh!

It's my old colored pencils.

Well, that's right.

Didn't use to draw?

Yeah, a little.

Yeah.

What is this?

Lavender.

Oh, this reminds me of that little hotel

you and I stayed in France that one time.

I never got the Paris bid.

You always did.

Hey, do you know how many people would

love to get a few months in the country?

Just think about all the fresh air you're

taking in.

Um...

Hey, that's pretty.

Yeah, um... Jake gave it

to me for my 16th birthday.

And then he kissed me.

It was our first and only kiss.

But you guys never dated?

Nah.

Somehow that's when things started getting

complicated.

Annie, where are you?

That's my grandma.

Okay, well, this has been so productive.

Thank you so much for keeping me company.

And please keep me posted about Bob.

Absolutely.

Thank you.

Looks like you've cleaned house.

Yeah, made a start at least.

I'll take these to the church donation

center later.

And you know what?

Sit down and relax.

I'll make your coffee.

Thank you, dear.

Here.

Whoa.

All right.

Here we go.

Is something wrong?

Nope.

I've always liked strong coffee.

It just seems like a waste to go through

the can too fast.

Well, I'll buy you some more.

Actually, I found a specialty roaster

online.

Oh, coffee tastes like coffee to me.

I appreciate it, but you ought to be

saving your money.

Speaking of money, you know, you really

shouldn't keep yours in the refrigerator.

You know, you should keep it in the bank.

Well, that's one of my hiding places.

I'm not sure I remember every place I've

stashed it.

Grandma.

But if something happens

to me, you need to

go through everything

before you sell it off.

But that right there is I'm saving for

repairs.

Well, it would be safer in the bank.

Have you thought about selling the farm

and getting a little place in town,

a one story with a big lot and a garden?

It would just be easier to... I plan to

live here as long as the Lord allows.

This farm has been in our family for five

generations, and I'm not giving it up.

I was born on this farm, and I plan to die

on this farm.

And I take my coffee black with one sugar,

if you've forgotten.

Right.

The sky is the Lord's canvas.

It's beautiful.

Grandma.

There's more to me coming home than just

losing my job.

I figured there was more to the story.

Let's have it.

Stuart...

asked me to move in with him.

Told me he didn't want to get married.

Ever.

At least not to me.

So I broke up with him.

And I could have stayed with friends in

New York.

I just wanted to get out a while and clear

my head.

You dreaded telling me this?

Annie, you don't have to be afraid of me.

I was strict with you, I

know, but I just didn't want

to make the same mistakes

I made with your mother.

I miss her.

Hmm.

Me too.

Every single day.

And your grandpa too.

Yeah.

You are welcome to stay here as long as

you want.

Thank you.

And thank you for the lavender soap.

It's my favorite.

Really?

Thank you.

Bless this food for the nourishment of our

bodies and our bodies to your service.

Amen.

So, I was talking with Camille.

For a silent partner.

She sure does call a lot.

Well, silent in partnership, but

she is extremely knowledgeable

when it comes to business

and the hospitality industry.

You know, her father was my

mentor at the bank, and he is

interested in investing if we

do the farm-to-table restaurant.

In Cincinnati?

Possibly.

But, you know, I think right here would be

the ideal spot to showcase the local

farmers to grow the vegetables and make

the cheese.

I am so proud of you, Jake.

Always up for a challenge.

Remember when you broke your arm falling

out of the climbing tree?

How could I forget?

I spent my entire 13th birthday in a cast

from shoulder to wrist.

Annie flew into the house, all adhered,

yelling that you'd broken your arm.

You trailed in behind her,

cool as a cucumber, examining

the angle of your broken

bones like some scientist.

Yeah, well, I think I was in shock.

You did not shed a tear, but, Annie,

she was crying her eyes out for you.

Where are you going with this,

Mom?

Oh, Annie was a good friend to you.

She was, but she decided otherwise in high

school.

Anyway, that was a long time ago,

and I'm really happy with my current plan.

All I'm saying is that it seems like Annie

is at a crossroads in her life right now,

and that she could use a good friend.

I'm begging you, please, please just stop.

Good morning.

I just made a fresh pot.

I thought you'd like some while it's hot.

Thank you.

I heard you yelling at Elvis, and I knew

you were up.

Elvis?

The Rooster.

Oh, I've always loved that name.

You know, I can sleep through 5 A.M.

garbage trucks, all-night sirens,

with that crowing.

Is your knee bothering you again?

And don't tell me it's the weather.

There's not a cloud in the sky.

I am fine.

Dr. Bright is on me to get it fixed,

but it's gonna have to wait.

There's just too much to do around here.

I'll give him a call.

Annie May, don't you dare.

I...

I will... I'll be

fine in a minute.

See, the pain's already passing.

So do you have any plans for the day?

I don't know.

I'm going stir-crazy waiting around to

hear about this job.

I need a project.

Do you need any help around the garden or

anything?

Why don't you go see if Woody needs any

help in the chicken Coop?

Yes, ma'am.

Hey.

Good morning, Annie.

How are the nesting boxes coming?

Making mighty fine progress, aren't we,

Jake?

Yes, sir.

Ran into Woody on the morning run.

Told this big city banker I could learn

him a thing or two.

I'm sure he needs all the help he can get.

Yeah, well, I wasn't the one always trying

to get out of my egg duties.

Okay, um... Do you mind me?

How many times did you get me to do your

chores and gather eggs for you?

I forget.

You know what?

The hen pecking never bothered you.

True.

Heard a lot less than getting stepped on

by a Jersey, that's for sure.

We used to trade our eggs and chickens for

fresh milk in the wild with dairy cows.

I brought you a string of the finest

bluegill and crappie my pond can produce.

Oh.

Pretty good fisherman.

Thank you.

When was the last time you actually had

fresh fish there, city girl?

Anyway, that was very nice of you,

Woody.

In fact, fried bluegill is one of my

grandma's favorites.

Got a little bit of everything on my farm,

not just fish.

Yeah?

A little corn.

I got chickens and cows, plus the horses I

trade here and there.

Got several kids, too.

Aw, how old are your kids?

Let me think.

I have a set of twins and a set of

triplets.

You do?

He's talking about his goats.

Right.

I knew that.

I better get going or I'm gonna be late

for my saddle club clients.

sh**t, I still need to check on nutmeg.

Well... I guess I'll be late.

Aw, don't worry, Woody.

I'll check in on him for you.

We can do that.

Yeah, yeah, don't be late.

You're the best, Annie.

You too, Jake.

Here.

Thanks, Woody.

Nutmeg?

Is that a horse?

Yeah, I think maybe you should just stay

here with the chickens.

Did you call me a chicken just then?

Is that what just...

Are you kidding me?

Well, I mean, you are

the only country girl I've

ever known who isn't

comfortable around horses.

Well, it's not that I'm that comfortable,

I just...

Seriously, I got this.

I'll check back later.

Wait up.

Gosh, I haven't been down to this barn in

ages.

Used to be my favorite place to hide back

in the day.

I remember.

Take my grandpa's old globe and climb up

under the loft.

Dream about all the places I wanted to go.

Used to talk all the time back then.

What was that?

Sorry.

Don't worry, Nutmeg is as gentle as a

lamb.

I promise.

Be right back.

Come on, Nutmeg.

Annie, this is Nutmeg.

Nutmeg.

Annie.

She's 12 years old and very, very calm.

See, horses have an extra sense about

people.

See?

She likes you.

She's a beautiful horse.

Yeah.

Here.

Oh, no, no.

You go ahead.

Okay.

Here you go.

All right.

You want to pet her?

I'm okay.

You sure?

She's really, really soft.

Okay.

Maybe just one time.

Hi.

There you go.

Hi.

Good girl.

Thanks.

You started a forest, but you're doing

great too.

Thanks.

Give me that, Nutmeg.

Hey.

She likes you.

Oh, your grandpa's globe's still here.

Yeah.

So where are you traveling today?

Reykjavik, Iceland.

Well, you better pack warmly.

Your turn.

Close your eyes.

Okay.

Argentina.

Argentina.

Ooh.

So I take it you've been?

Yeah, a few times.

I used to have a route through Buenos

Aires.

Wow.

That's why I left in the first place.

I just wanted to travel.

Get out.

Get away from everyone knowing my

business.

Well, I certainly accomplished that.

You know, I never pictured you being so

passionate about farming.

We both know it can be a pretty hard way

to live.

It can be.

Well, I do have a great business partner.

Oh, she's not as excited about the actual

farming as I am.

A colleague from the bank?

Sort of.

My mentor's daughter, Camille.

Just a business partner?

For now.

Has she been here yet?

She's not exactly a country girl.

She's one of my reservations, if I'm being

honest.

Well, I can relate to that.

I don't know what I am these days.

You know, I should go tell my grandma I'd

help her in that garden.

I can walk you back to the house.

That's okay.

I know you're busy.

I've taken up enough of your time already.

Good to see you.

Bye, nutmeg.

I have never seen anybody else smell dirt.

This dirt is our history.

It's like a time machine from the old

days.

I never know what memory is gonna play out

when I smell it.

You try it.

It smells like dirt to me.

You don't have as many memories here as I

do.

It'll come, though.

All right, what are we doing?

We're gonna rake this soil so we can

scatter some green seeds.

I'm gonna try to grow some late spinach

and Kale.

Okay.

Here's the spinach.

Put some in your hands.

Scatter it.

And I'll rake over.

All right.

All right.

Just like that.

Perfect.

Great.

You know, one of my favorite memories is

sitting with grandpa on the back porch.

Breaking beans in the summer with a Katie

days of bullfrogs all around.

He always griped about work.

Well, as a teenager, it was my job to

gripe.

Your grandpa should Cherish those times

with you.

He was a good listener.

I'd talk about wanting to see the world,

do all the things my mom could never do.

What did he say?

I remember his exact words.

He said, I believe your mom would have

liked that.

He said that?

Yeah.

Then, of course, he'd say, but don't

forget to come home every now and again.

He could never say no to you or your

mother.

I didn't keep that promise very well.

Well... I know I haven't

been home much.

Well, when you raise children, you expect

them to leave the nest at some point.

I could have visited more.

You're here now.

That's what counts.

Let's not dwell over things we can't

change.

Oh!

Grandma, are you okay?

Yes.

Okay, put this down.

Come on, it's your knee.

Come on, come with me.

I got you, I got you.

Slow.

Just come on.

Okay.

Right here.

You did great.

Okay.

Thank you.

Okay.

All right.

Call Evelyn and ask if Jake can come and

help me to the house.

Well, I can probably...

Please.

All right, I'll call him.

Okay.

Nice and easy.

Sorry to make such a fuss.

It's just a bad spell.

It'll ease off.

Dr. Bright is on his way.

He'll be right over and you'll be right as

rain.

She said he's been on her about getting it

fixed.

Well, I'm gonna go grab your blanket,

right?

This is nonsense.

My garden isn't finished.

My beets haven't come up yet.

We will worry about your beets.

You're in pain.

It's not that easy.

How does some sweet tea sound?

It sounds good.

Annie, why don't you come with me to the

kitchen?

Jake?

Hey.

You're still here.

Yeah.

I wanted to make sure Pula was all right.

How's she doing?

She's fine.

Your mom's with her right now.

Oh, good.

You finally agreed to get her knee fixed.

The doctor made some calls and they're

getting her in a week from Tuesday.

I'm really glad to hear that.

Me too.

So, um... I just wanted to

give you a little heads up.

Word on the street is that

your boyfriend worked for the

airline and had to fire you and

that's why you broke up with me.

Are you kidding me?

No, I know, I know.

It's a small town.

People just... They fill in the blanks with

what they think is interesting, you know?

That is so ridiculous.

It's funny.

I like it.

It's not what happened.

Well, if you don't mind me asking,

what did happen?

I broke up with Stuart because I...

I guess I liked the idea of who I thought

he could be, but not who he really was.

So you never envisioned growing old with

him?

You know, I don't think I actually ever

pictured that.

What about you?

No, I never envisioned myself growing old

with Stuart.

I meant you and Camille.

Well, I knew our parents would love for us

to end up together.

I think she would too.

Of course she would.

You're a catch.

Oh, come on, you're one of the good guys.

Everybody who knows you knows that.

Thank you.

She's sleeping now.

We'll check in on her later.

All right.

Well, if you need anything, just call.

Thank you.

Thank you both for being here.

Of course, sweetheart.

Good night.

Good night.

Good night.

Grandma, what are you doing out here?

You're supposed to take my bed.

That's your bedroom.

I'm fine here.

I've been thinking, I'm going to postpone

the surgery.

Oh, no, no, no, no, no.

We've been over this.

You heard Dr. Bright, the longer you wait,

the worse your knee could get.

You're going to be going to New York soon

and... I can stay as long as necessary.

What about your job?

I might get my job back in three months,

maybe six.

Actually, this is the perfect time for you

to have this done.

That's very sweet of you, but your life is

up north.

You'll soon tire of caring for me.

I don't want to be a burden.

I want to do this.

Let me do something for you for once.

You put your life on hold to finish

raising me.

And now it's my turn to do this one small

thing for you.

Okay?

Okay.

Now, will you please take my bed?

No.

Thank you so much.

The living room couch is hard as a stone

bench.

And Grandma's bed is too big to bring

downstairs.

Not a problem at all.

Came from our guest house, so happy to

have it put to good use.

I don't know how she's been managing the

stairs this whole time.

Well, we are here to help, Annie.

Come on, Jake.

Hold up your hand.

I'm doing all the work here.

Your work is going to dent my trap,

Woody.

Now I got to turn it.

All right.

I got it.

All right.

Hang with me if you can, Jake.

Right behind you, boss.

You guys are doing great.

Pastor Scott, thank you for helping.

Call me Scott, and I'm happy to be here.

Although I did hear something about fresh

biscuits and homemade persimmon jam.

Yes.

Thank you.

It reminded me of Woody.

How are you holding up?

Fine.

It's just my grandma's always been so

hearty and tough, you know?

Strong of mind and body.

I haven't known Beulah for long,

but I can tell that much of her strength.

Comes from her faith in God.

My grandpa used to say we were just alike.

I always thought we were total opposites.

Is that so?

She was so strict and I was rebellious.

I left home after high school.

It was easier to be in New York where life

travels at the speed of light.

But being back home...

Truth becomes plain?

Some truths.

Some things are still pretty unclear.

You both seem very strong and determined.

Maybe you're drawing your strength from

different Wells.

I never thought about it like that.

But wait, then which well am I drawing

from?

Keep asking God for guidance.

You all set?

Do you need anything?

Coffee?

Sweet tea?

Nothing, honey.

I'm fine.

Do you remember this?

Is that the family Bible?

It was upstairs in my room.

The boys brought it down with the books.

I haven't seen this in years.

Our whole family is recorded here.

Take a look.

Frederick Campbell.

Beulah May Campbell.

Joanne May Campbell Taylor.

Jacob Frederick Campbell.

Lillian William May.

Ephraim May.

My older brother Ephraim.

He was awarded a Purple Heart for his

service.

God rest him.

I didn't know that.

Our relatives go back as far as the

pioneer days.

See?

Boone?

Is that Whitley?

And Shelby.

They were the ones who first bought this

land over 200 years ago.

That's amazing.

I had no idea.

You and I are the last ones left of the

May family.

That's right.

That's why it's so important to hold on to

the land.

It's our heritage.

Portrait of the artist is a young woman.

It's nice to see you still draw.

Not quite.

I haven't drawn in years.

I'm just messing around.

You mind?

Sure.

How many hours of our childhood have you

spent playing here?

So many.

Yeah.

What is it?

Your necklace.

Oh, yeah.

I found it in a drawer.

It's the one you gave me for my 16th

birthday.

I remember.

Yeah.

I gave it to you right at this very spot.

Yeah.

And then we...

Kissed.

My first kiss.

Mine too.

Really?

Yep.

You know, I'm kind of surprised you kept

it.

Why?

Well, soon after that you started dating

Brett to...

What's his name?

Bradshaw.

Bradshaw, right?

That was like a month later.

Well, we were supposed to go to the

homecoming dance together.

What?

You never asked me to the dance.

Well, I thought it was understood.

In fact, I remember I went to you and said

he asked me and you told me to go.

Because I figured you had already made up

your mind.

Well, you could have said something.

You didn't care.

Wouldn't have made any difference anyway.

But you're wrong about one thing.

I did care.

You did?

I did.

More than you know.

Um, Vi, I lost track of time.

I'm supposed to help my grandma with

dinner.

And I am late, sure.

So, um, anyway, I should get going.

But, uh, I'll see you later.

Yep.

Yeah.

Okay.

See you later.

Oh, uh, bring the biscuits in,

please.

Yep.

Did you notice how the boiling water made

the ham slices all nice and tender?

Yes!

It's a great trick.

Okay, what's next?

Uh, set the table.

Right.

I don't know what I would have done

without you this past week.

Sit down for a minute.

Pastor Scott will be here soon.

But I wanted to talk to you alone before I

go into surgery tomorrow.

I want to make sure that you know how things

stand if something should happen to me.

Grandma, nothing's gonna happen to you.

It's gonna be fine.

It'll probably be fine, but the Lord's

will be done.

Besides, we needed to have this talk

anyway.

May not be tomorrow, but it will be

someday.

Now, all of my papers, everything you need

to know is in the lockbox upstairs.

The farm will be yours to do whatever you

wish with.

Of course, I would love for you to keep

the farm and live here.

But I know that's not likely.

I don't know how...

It would be my preference to give Jake a

fair price and first option.

Okay.

I mean, if you marry a man

up north, most likely he would

rather have the cash so you

could buy something there.

I just...

never realized how much of our history is

here, you know?

I mean, I'd heard the names, but I never

connected everything.

I'm sorry to have laid this hard talk on

you, but it had to be done.

It's okay.

Cast all your anxiety on him because he

cares for you.

Lauren...

I'm sorry for going my own way all these

years.

Please protect my grandma tomorrow and

bring her home safely.

Evelyn?

Yeah.

Yeah, I'll be right there.

Oh, Annie.

Thanks for coming by.

Everything okay?

Oh, yeah.

How's Beulah?

She's great.

She's at the house with Patrick Scott.

Tomorrow morning, first thing,

I am taking her to the hospital.

Good.

Oh, please give her this from Jake and me.

Oh, thank you.

She'll love it.

But was there something else?

Because on the

phone... I had an idea.

Now, Beulah's knee may

need fixing, but her hearing is

crackerjack, which is why

I want to talk to you here.

Okay.

I may get in trouble for this,

but we have cooked up a way to fix up your

grandmother's farm while she's in the

hospital.

How?

A whole bunch of church members have

volunteered to work for free.

Oh, my goodness.

Now, I know that Beulah

won't accept any kind of charity,

so we'll let her pay for

the paint and the materials.

Well, now she's got a big chunk of money

in the fridge set aside for repairs.

And behind the TV and upstairs in the hall

closet.

I don't want to know.

The volunteers can start tomorrow morning.

And with a few days in the hospital,

and if the weather holds, they should be

able to get a lot done before she gets

home.

Evelyn, this is wonderful.

She's going to be thrilled.

This is so great.

Hey, don't forget this.

There we go.

Thank you.

Thanks.

Jake.

Annie.

Hi.

Hey.

Look, I'm sorry about last week.

No, I'm sorry.

I've been meaning to stop by the house.

I've just been really busy.

Yeah, I heard that Phil agreed to sell you

the diner.

Yeah, yeah.

Congratulations.

Thank you.

Thank you.

But now the real work begins.

So, are you okay alone at the farm?

Yeah, I'll be fine.

Well, look, if you need anything,

just give me a call, all right?

I'll be right over.

Thanks, Jake.

That means a lot.

I'll see you.

More appealing paints.

Broken gate hinge.

Hmm.

Hey, you lost your apple.

Do you want it?

Okay.

Just be gentle.

Good girl.

Good girl.

This is so exciting.

Hey, so...

How's Beulah?

She's great.

The surgery was a success.

Praise God.

She's ready to come home, but the doctors

are showing Wednesday or Thursday.

That should give us enough time.

All right.

Well, let's get to it, huh?

Yes.

How about some sweet tea?

Looking so good.

Hey, Annie.

Apple muffin right out of the oven.

Don't mind if I do.

Thank you so much for your help.

You still planning on going back to flying

around in those airplanes for a job?

Well, I haven't heard anything,

but, yeah, probably.

Wouldn't get on one of those airplanes if

my life depended on it.

Really?

There's nowhere you'd want to go?

No, ma'am.

Anywhere I want to go, I can drive.

Well, what about a different country,

like France or Italy?

Or La Argentina?

That was pretty good.

Thank you.

Muffin?

Oh, no, thank you.

I already had three of them.

Nice.

I take my vacation every time I get up on

my horse.

There's nowhere I'd rather be than home.

What could be better than this right here?

Woody, I could not agree

with you more, although

we haven't traveled

the world like Annie has.

Even so, I think you might be onto

something there.

It's you.

It's me.

You expecting someone else?

No, I heard a car.

I didn't know.

So how's Beulah?

She's great.

Yeah, I got back from the hospital not too

long ago and she's sleeping.

The doctors say she's making a pretty

quick recovery.

It's good to hear.

Have you had supper?

I haven't even thought about it.

Has it... Oh, I guess

I lost track of time.

We should get something to eat.

I could drive us up to Lexington.

You know, we have

enough casseroles inside

to feed an army for a

year, I'm pretty sure.

So we can just eat here.

But I should probably freshen up.

I think you look great now.

You know, to be able to pick our

friendship back up after all these years.

Has been such a gift.

Maybe...

you should stay.

I mean, it's funny you should

say that I have been wondering

what it would be like if I just

didn't go back to New York.

Well, the truth is, in my life there,

I'm surrounded by people, but I often feel

pretty alone.

Well, perhaps you'll lay off as an up time.

Honestly, I have been happier the last few

weeks.

More at peace than I have been in years.

Well, that's a good thing.

A really, really good thing.

So, what's holding you back?

What are you afraid of?

I'm afraid... I'm so sorry.

I'm just... It's

been a long day.

I'm tired.

I'm hungry, you're hungry.

And there's casseroles in there,

so let's get one.

Okay.

And I want to hear about your business.

Yeah.

Business.

Would you look at all this?

Wow!

So beautiful!

Look at all this.

There she is.

Oh, she's here.

Welcome home!

Welcome home.

Evelyn orchestrated it.

You would have done the same for me.

Everyone here donated their time and

labor.

We just finished this morning.

Lance, sick!

How nice.

It looks like heaven to me.

I don't know what to say.

Well, just wait till you see out back in

the barn.

And the chicken house.

Don't worry, Elvis is still the king of

the Coop.

Oh, phew.

Woody!

Thank you.

Thank you.

Let me get the door.

Wow!

These are beautiful.

It's almost two weeks and people are still

dropping by.

Flowers and meals.

Well, you are much loved around here.

You don't know how good it feels to be

home again.

I don't care if I never spend another

night away.

Grandma, lately I've seen things in a way

I never had before.

And I want you to know it's going to be

different from now on.

We are family.

And I won't take that for granted again.

No, no.

I've done my share of making things hard

between us, too.

And when the time

comes, I promise I will

do everything I can

to hold on to this farm.

Annie, that's the best gift you can give

me.

Now, the doctor says you're supposed to be

keeping up with your exercises.

So while you do those, how about I make us

some breakfast?

That sounds wonderful.

I better take this.

Bob, hello.

Annie, I have good news.

Got you back in a week.

A week?

Monday, 9 A.M.

You have to go through Hudson Airlines

orientation, just like any other new employee.

But after training, you'll be in the skies

again.

You're welcome.

Sorry, I just can't start that soon.

My grandmother recently had surgery,

and so she needs me here.

Do you know how hard I had to fight for

you?

Do you know how many people are standing

in line behind you?

Yes, and I appreciate it.

You know I do.

Good.

So I'll see you on Monday.

Bob, I just need more time.

Annie, you're lucky to have this job.

I'll give you to noon tomorrow to give you

a final answer, okay?

See you soon.

You're supposed to be doing your

exercises.

Do you want me to help you?

Wait, are you hungry?

Bad news?

That was my boss.

He was able to get me back.

Well, that's good news.

That's what you were waiting to hear.

Grandma, I'd have to start on Monday.

When all this happened, he said it would

be at least three months, possibly six.

I am so sorry.

Well, there's nothing to be sorry for.

You have your job back.

It's a blessing, not something to feel sad

about.

I'll make out fine.

Evelyn's already said she'll help me if I

need her.

You've gotten me through the worst part.

And look what all you've done around here.

I can hire some extra help for the garden.

Oh, man, it's fine.

It has been wonderful having you here.

And I won't miss that.

But I want you to live your life.

I'll fly home on days off.

I'll come home so often you'll be tired of

seeing me.

I'll come to New York.

Really?

If you promise you won't make me ride the

subway.

Deal.

Deal.

I should go tell Drake.

It's not gonna be easy.

It's gonna be okay.

Okay.

Drake!

I was just on my way to see you.

Oh, well, I was thinking maybe we could

take that trip up to Lexington.

It's another place I'd love to show you.

Listen, I want to tell you before you hear

it from someone else.

My boss called and I got my job back.

I thought you were thinking about staying.

Well, I was, sort of.

It's not reality.

I mean, Drake, I would...

I'd be walking away from so much.

My seniority, my benefits.

I can't turn it down.

But I'm gonna come home a lot more.

And we'll see each other all the time.

I don't get it.

I thought you'd made up your mind.

I'm just going back to a job I know I can

do well.

You know what?

I think you're just scared.

That's not fair.

That is not fair.

No, I can't just leave

the life I've built for

years now and, what, start

over again with nothing?

Right.

Nothing.

It'll be different this time.

You know, I'll come home a lot more.

And I needed this moment.

It was unexpected.

Unwanted, really.

But it's been the best thing that's ever

happened to me.

I don't know what to tell you about,

Jake.

I mean, it's been really exciting.

Traveling, seeing all those places.

Do I really want to go back to living out

of a suitcase?

Which will am I drawing from?

Faith?

Or fear?

And I want it to be faith, Laura.

My home, my family, my history,

my friends, the land.

This is my home.

This is my home.

This is where I want to be.

Thank you.

Give me strength, Lord.

To put down roots instead of running away.

Coffee.

Extra strong, just the way you like it.

Thank you.

You all packed?

I'm not going to New York.

Don't stay for me or anyone else.

I'm not.

I'm staying for me.

I already talked to Bob, my old boss.

It's official.

I'm so happy.

Me too.

Me too.

Even if it means facing my mistakes and

missed opportunities for the rest of my life.

Well, I don't understand.

Jake, I've made a mess of things since

high school.

Don't be so sure.

I have seen the way he looks at you.

I believe it will all work out in the end.

How can you be so confident?

Because I've been praying and trusting

that God will work it out.

Well, I have a delivery to make.

Wish me luck.

Good luck.

This was by the front door.

It's for you.

Thanks.

So, how are things coming along with Bill

and your plans for the diner?

Great.

Great.

Camille's out of the picture, but I found

a local investor to go in on with me.

That is wonderful news.

Yeah.

It's hard having Annie leaving.

It was always a part of her plan.

Honey, did you ask her to stay?

I would never want to interfere with her

career.

That's not what I meant.

Sometimes, well, sometimes you'd have to

make your case.

Well, you know, she made hers and I'm

respecting it.

All right.

I just don't want you wondering what if

for the rest of your life.

All right.

We'll hand it over to Beulah's.

I'll see you later.

Okay.

Prettiest garden west of the Alleghenies.

I appreciate all you've done for me,

Evelyn.

Letting go of my pride and letting others

help me was a lesson I had to learn.

It wasn't anything that you wouldn't and

haven't done for me and many others.

Thank you.

God's will be done.

Amen.

I hope I'm not jumping the g*n here,

but do you think she's going to see Jake?

I hope so.

Thanks for meeting me.

Of course.

I had to thank the artist in person.

That drawing, you are incredibly talented.

I love it.

You do?

Yeah.

And thank you for the note.

You were right.

Back in high school, deep down,

I knew you wanted more.

But it scared me.

I had to go and travel and do all the

things my mom and I used to talk about.

And you were the one person who could have

kept me here.

You know, I think in my heart,

I always knew that.

I knew I had to let you go.

But now I need to ask you something.

Would you go on a date with me as someone

you might fall in love with?

Might?

Do you remember what you said when I gave

this to you?

I asked you if we would always be best

friends, even when we were older.

How about more than best friends?

It's good to be home.