Picture Perfect Christmas (2019)

[bunniefuu]

It's okay, we're basically done.

Unless you want another set-up?

No, I think
you've covered everything.

Thank you, Sophie.

Okay, then, everyone.
We're officially done.

Thank you!

Good job.

- Thank you so much.
- You're welcome.

Good job, guys.

Marissa. Good timing.

I just finished
the Christmas sh**t.

It went great.

Good.
Because I have other news.

Steibis Skiwear called.

They put you on hold
for their next sh**t.

On hold isn't a booking.

I know,

but I have a good feeling
about this one.

I really want you to book it.

Spoken like a true friend.

I wouldn't mind the commission.

Spoken like a true agent.

So what's the next step?
Besides my waiting.

Well, Steibis has to nail down
the budget,

which should come
in a couple of weeks,

and when they do,

they're going to want
to move fast.

Did I mention
it shoots in The Alps?

Hello?

Way to bury the lead!

It probably wouldn't happen

until the first week of January,

which means you finally
have time for a real Christmas.

Really?

I can't even remember

what that's like...

Are you sure there aren't
any quick available assignments?

Costa Rica? Ireland? Bulgaria?

I've always wanted
to go to Bulgaria.

They have castles.

Sophie, I say this
as the consummate workaholic...

take a break.

Go do something Christmasy
with your boyfriend.

Deck a hall,

ride a sleigh.

Fine. Castles can wait,

and Brent
does come back today...

Perfect!

And it has been a while

since I've had a chance
to really get into Christmas,

which used to be
my favorite time of year.

Honey, you know I love you,

but work-life balance
requires both work and life.

And preferably balance.

One step at a time.

Talk to you soon.

Mr. Murphy?

Order's ready.

Okay...

So, were there any
of the nannies you've met so far

that you especially liked?

Not really.

Yeah. Me neither.

How long is Mrs. Christie
going to be back in Charleston?

She's gone till the 3rd,

another two weeks.

We're doomed.

Hey!

I take offense to that.

We're two smart, capable,

creative individuals,

who can surely

find a way
to take care of themselves.

Can Mrs. Griffith do it?

I like her.

She likes you,

and that would be
an entirely perfect arrangement

if she hadn't hurt her foot.

But she's watching me tonight.

Yeah.

Because I have to stay late

and we don't have
any other options.

No, we can't take advantage
of her kindness.

So, we're going to have
the service

send over a bunch
of potential nannies,

and I've set a deadline
for this Thursday

for you and I
to make a decision.

Next week,

I have to finish
the annual report for the board.

Okay.

So, just...

maybe do us both a favor,

and try to find a way
to like one of them.

If you can.

Deal.

After all,

there's got to be at least

one person
out there in the world

who's strong enough
for the Murphy men.

Yeah.

Soph! Hey.

Hi.

I'm sorry I'm late.

I had to make a quick stop
and change clothes,

but...

I did get you this.

It's beautiful.
Thank you.

Yeah.
It's your favorite color.

See?

I'm the "Oh, he listens
when I talk" kinda boyfriend.

You're being extra-charming.

What gives?

I got a new gig.

- Congrats.
- Yeah.

When does it sh**t?

Tomorrow.

Tomorrow?

You just got back
from a month in Australia.

It is
an amazing assignment, Soph.

I'm going to be

MondoMoon's
official photographer,

get to follow them

on their West Coast tour...

and Asia.

But you'll miss Christmas.

Yeah, but I'll probably be back
by New Year's.

Yeah, but you'll miss Christmas.

I never really took you

for the Christmas
type of person.

Your place isn't even decorated.

Well, I've been crazy busy.

Which I get.

But, honey.

You're a professional
photographer, too.

You know how important it is

to jump on
these big assignments,

whenever they show up,

even at Christmas.

No, I know.
I know.

I'll make it up to you
when I get back.

I promise.

Unless you're in Switzerland
for the Steibis sh**t.

How'd you hear about that?

We do share the same agent.

Well, it's not set yet.

It will be.

I can feel it.

They'd be fools not to hire you.

You're going to have
an amazing career.

- Cheers.
- Cheers.

Look at that tree.

Let me help, Mrs. Griffith.

Thanks, Troy.

Well, it's really starting
to come together.

Yeah.

I was in the middle
of doing it myself...

when this happened.

Uncle David and I,

we don't really
have our tree yet,

but we will.

Yes, you will.

Your uncle is a very busy man
who loves you very much.

Yeah. I know.

Hey. Who's this?

That's
my granddaughter, Sophie.

She's the one
who took all the photos.

She's pretty.

- Is she coming for Christmas?
- Oh, no.

I call Sophie my little Nomad

because she loves
to travel around so much.

Unfortunately, her travels

rarely bring her back
to Bainbridge anymore.

Too bad.

I bet she's nice, like you.

Thank you, Troy.

And I wouldn't mind
having her close by again.

Especially at Christmas.

I think it's Uncle David.

Hey.

Hey.

I'm so sorry I'm late.

That's fine.

I've been employing Troy
as my helper.

My mobility's a little less

than I originally
thought it would be.

Yeah. I took Riggs

for a walk around the block
a couple times,

and we baked cookies,

and now
we're decorating the tree.

That's excellent.

I'm glad Troy here
could be of service.

Wait! That's it!

What if I stay here
over the break

with Mrs. Griffith?

That way, I could help her
by doing things,

and she'll be okay,

and I won't need a nanny!

No. That is not it.

You're out of school
for two weeks.

It's far too long
for us to impose.

Now, we're getting help.

At least until I finish
the board report.

But it's your company.

Well, it's never
that simple, okay?

We're going to hire somebody.

Okay.

However, we're both

more than happy
to help you, Louise,

if you need anything
while you recover.

Thank you, David.

Of course.
My pleasure.

Now...

off to bed with you, young man.

Okay.

Bye.

Pathetic.

Sophie!

What a lovely surprise.

Hi.

I was just looking at
my sad little Christmas tree

and it made me think of

all the great ones
I used to have

with you and Granddad.

So you had to call.

I did.

I miss you.

What's going on?
How are you?

Well...

it's a funny thing...

Her foot?

Hairline fracture.

Which means
I'm going to Bainbridge.

Not exactly the break for you
I had in mind.

Well, both my parents
moved to Spain two years ago,

so there's just me to help out.

What does "help out" entail?

Probably something to do
with the Christmas Pageant.

A Christmas Pageant?

Those things are real?

You really need to get out
of San Francisco more.

Are you kidding?

Holidays are the only time
there's any decent traffic.

So have you told Brent?

Well, I tried to call,

but he's already
on his way to Portland

to cover the band,

so I texted him.

Well, their tour
swings by Seattle,

so maybe he can swing by
your grandmother's place

and help out with
the Bainbridge Christmas Parade.

Pageant.

Sounds the same in my brain.

I'll call you
when I hear from Steibis.

Okay.

Thank you.

Grandma!

Sophie!

Oh, darlin'! Mwah.

It's so good to see you.

It's so good to see you, too.

And I finally get to meet Riggs.

Easy, Riggs! Easy.

You look wonderful,
sweetheart.

Thank you.
So do you.

Let's go inside.
It's freezing out.

Okay. I'll get my bag.

She's already 10 minutes late.
That doesn't bode well.

Didn't the nanny service

say she was having car trouble?

Yeah, but that's just it...

I need somebody
with a reliable car.

Fair enough.

- But, until she gets there...
- Right...

Yes. We can go over the report.

When did you get
so pushy and ambitious?

The day we started
this company, my friend.

So, listen,

end of quarter numbers
look exceptional,

so the board's
got to be happy about that.

Yeah, and what about
next year's projects?

What about them?

None of the apps
we have in development

are even remotely as inspired

or inspiring
as I'd like them to be.

We need something
with a lot more wow to it

if we're going to keep people

not only interested,
but excited about the product.

Do you have
any such "wow" in mind?

No. I'm afraid not.

You see,
my brain's fried from working

and the school let off
for Christmas break last week.

Well, listen,

the good thing is,

we've still got
a little bit of time left,

and, hey, it's Christmas.

Maybe you'll find
some inspiration.

Yeah, maybe.

Oh, honey,

I'm so glad you could come
on such short notice.

Me, too.

I'm just sorry it had to be
because you got hurt.

I'll take what I can get.

I wish your parents
could have made it, too.

Dad said Mom is teaching
a seminar in Madrid

on the 23rd,

so they're staying there
for Christmas.

Okay.

So besides finish decorating
and walking Riggs...

what do you need me
to help you with?

Mainly the Christmas Pageant
planning committee.

I missed
the last couple of meetings.

I'll drive you.

My angel.

Hey.
I saw some new guy next door.

Did the Gilberts move?

In January.

David and Troy Murphy
moved in this May.

They're lovely.

Actually...

Troy helped walk Riggs
for me the other day

and left this behind.

Could you be a dear
and take it to him?

Now?

Sure.

Okay.

Finally!

I'm sorry?

Come on in.
Come on.

I'm...

Huh.

What do you mean "Huh"?

Well, you're just
not what I expected.

What were you expecting?

I don't know exactly, but...

Okay, so...

Look, I don't mean to be rude,

but I've got a video meeting
with the office at 3:00 p.m.

and you are late,

so if we could just
make this quick.

- Sure.
- All right.

How do you feel about kids?

- Kids?
- Yeah. Kids.

You know, children,
rugrats, munchkins.

You do like them, don't you?

Some more than others.

Okay...

- Did you just takes notes?
- Sure did.

Did you go to college?

I did.

- Where?
- Oregon.

Why?

It's a good school.
They gave me a scholarship.

- Do I get to ask you questions?
- Not yet.

What was your major?

Photography and media.

Struggling artist.

No.

Do you know CPR?

Are you feeling okay?

Yeah. I'm fine.

Because you just asked me that?

Well, safety is the number one
priority of a nanny.

I'm not a nanny.

Okay. Caregiver, then.

But Troy's never going to go
for the term "babysitter."

Good, not a babysitter either.

What title would you prefer?

Your neighbor's granddaughter.

What?

Yeah. I think
I can clear this up.

Hi. Sophie Griffith,
Louise's granddaughter.

- You're here!
- Hi.

Mrs. Griffith said

you weren't coming
for Christmas.

My schedule opened up,

and Grandma's hurt,
so here I am.

I'm guessing
you're not a nanny...

No.

No. She's a photographer.

I've seen your pictures,
they're really cool.

I like this kid.

Is this Troy?

Yeah.
That's my nephew.

Well then, Troy Murphy,
that is yours.

You left it at Grandma's
the other day.

Thank you.

I am so, so sorry
and so, so embarrassed.

I was expecting the agency

to send over another candidate

to be one of Troy's
temporary nannies

for the next few days.

That's okay.

Everyone needs a spontaneous
pop quiz on their life

every so often.

Keeps the brain active.

Right.

Are you staying for Christmas?

I am.

I'm going to help Grandma
through New Year's,

then, hopefully,
I'm off to Switzerland.

I'm up for
a potential photo assignment.

That is me putting my degree
to good use.

But first, I have to walk Riggs.

Can I come?
I love Riggs!

Troy, we just met Ms. Griffith.

Though you now know
more about me than most people.

And it's Sophie.

Please, Uncle David.

More the merrier for me.

Well...

It would actually help
while I have my video call.

See?

Win, win, win.

What's your number?

206-555-0415.

Now you have my contact info.

And just to be safe,

here's my business card.

After all,

safety is the number one
responsibility for a nanny.

Shall we?

He thought you were the nanny?

It was hilarious,
once we figured it out.

Dear.

I think David's anxious about
getting someone to help out.

What's their story?

Troy's parents
passed three years ago.

Car accident.

David stepped in
to be Troy's guardian.

They moved to Bainbridge
from Seattle

to give Troy

a more family-friendly
environment.

How's it going?

David doesn't talk
about it much,

but I get the impression

the first couple years
were difficult.

But they're better now.

Good.

Though David doesn't date much.

Why are you telling me that?

Just an observation.

Come on, Riggs.

Come on, buddy.

All set!

Let's go.

Hey, come on, Riggs.

Oh, my gosh, you're so cute.

Come on, boy.

How many cameras do you have?

Five.

Though this is my baby.

What about you?
Do you have one?

Only on my phone.

It hurts.

It really does.

But,

maybe I'll ask Santa for one
for Christmas.

Have you made up
your list of wishes yet?

No.

You should get on that.

Christmas is coming soon.

It's true.

What's this?

Christmas Pageant.

Wanna go?

Yeah.

Let's go.
Let's go walk by it.

Hi. I'm Da...

Hey. Sorry I'm a little late.

A little?

You're over an hour late.

Cars.

- Yeah.
- So...

like, when would I start?

You know what. I...

Yeah, I don't think
this is going to work.

Thank you.

Come on, Riggs.

It looks like

they're setting up
for the Christmas Pageant play.

Yeah, it does.

"The Night Before Christmas,"

I like the classics.

Simon Baylock, the director.

Sophie Griffith.

And this is Troy Murphy.

Hi, Troy.

Did you say "Griffith"?

Any relation to Louise Griffith?

She's my grandmother.

Oh, good.

I'm supposed to call her.

I'm new to the Pageant Committee
this year

and, apparently,
she's quite the organizer,

but she hasn't been
to the last couple meetings.

Well, she hurt her foot.

But we're planning on being
at the next one, which is...?

Tomorrow.

Right before the play auditions.

Are you trying out?

Oh, no.

What about you?

- Me?
- Why not?

It's about a family

waiting for Santa
on Christmas Eve.

And the original poem

was published in
the Troy, New York Sentinel,

so perhaps there's
a little Kismet at work here.

Here.
Here's the script.

It's only a half-hour play,
but it will be fun.

Hey, Sophie.
Is everything okay with Troy?

Everything's fine with Troy.

He's busy studying his lines
for the play,

but I was just calling to see

if you'd be okay with him

helping us finish decorating
Grandma's house.

- Are you sure about that?
- Please.

Have you seen
how many boxes she has?

We're going to need his help

to put everything up

before it's time
to take everything down again.

All right, then.

I'll swing by in a couple hours.

Perfect.

And David?

How did the nanny interview go?

Ooh, let's just say
you're still the lead.

Obviously.

These are so cute.

That one is cute.

That one's old, I think.
Right, Grandma?

It's older than you are.

Put the old ones in the front.

Higher, okay?

How's that look?

That's good, right?

Yes, that's the needed touch.

Lovely.

Why are you a photographer?

I blame her.

She gave me my first camera
at Christmas when I was 11,

and I fell in love.

I actually got some good ones
of you and Riggs in the park.

I'll send it to your uncle.

Awesome, thanks.

"It was the night before..."

I'll call him back.

I didn't know
you were still dating Brent.

Why would you think we broke up?

You never talk about him.

Well, he's either on a job
or I am.

Where is he now?

He's following a band.

Over Christmas?

You have to take work
when you can.

Even when you're successful.

If he's successful,

he can find a way
to spend Christmas with you.

That's just how it goes

when two photographers
are dating, Grandma.

I swear, in the six months
that we've been together,

we've been in the same place,
same time, maybe three weeks.

Time isn't as important

as the quality
of your interaction.

Your grandfather and I

fell in love
over a weekend in college,

and it lasted nearly 40 years.

Well, not everyone can have
what you and Grandpa had.

Or Mom and Dad.

Things are different now.

But love never changes.

- Hi.
- Hi.

I'm so sorry I'm late.

That's okay.

That's something I've been
saying a lot recently.

- Hey.
- Hey.

You guys have really been at it.

Or did the elves do it,
I wonder?

It was mostly us.

Well, great job.
All of you.

Can Troy come over tomorrow
and help with finishing touches?

I'm afraid Troy has to come
to work with me tomorrow.

I still don't have
anybody to help

and I have to be
at these meetings,

so I can't stay home.

But the auditions are tomorrow.

Mr. Baylock gave me a script.
I'll show you.

Can I talk to you for a second?

Yeah, please.

- Thanks.
- You're welcome.

Let us watch him.

At least for tomorrow.
And maybe beyond.

It's not like you have
a whole lot of options,

and I'm pretty sure

I've passed phase one
of the interview.

- Right, but I can't...
- But, you can.

- No, but you...
- Also can.

You came here to spend time
with your grandmother, Sophie,

not to look after my nephew.

Honestly,

nothing about this Christmas
is my usual.

Which is what?

Traveling.

Last year, I was in Bali,

doing a cover
of a Yoga magazine.

The year before,

I was in Tanzania
on the Serengeti.

When my agent said
I had this Christmas off,

I didn't know what to do
with my spare time.

I grew up with doctor parents,
who work every available second.

It's what I learned to do.

You seem so relaxed.

Thank you.

Mom and Dad also taught me

to make the most
of an unexpected situation.

- Is coming here a situation?
- It is.

A fun one.

I love spending time
with my grandmother.

She was the most normal part
of my childhood.

And Christmases with her
were my absolute favorites.

I know Troy's going to have
as much fun with her as I did.

Right, but I don't want
to impose.

I'm offering.

I'm here, you need help.
Why not help?

And Troy is so easygoing.

Trust me, he has his moments.

But, yeah,
that is basically true.

So, say yes.

Let Grandma and me
be co-nannies...

at least for tomorrow?

Okay, then,
but just for tomorrow.

Okay.

I thought
you were going to relax,

and now you're in Washington,

acting as some kid's babysitter?

Troy doesn't like
the term "babysitter,"

so I'm going with "nanny,"

which is somehow better.

What about your grandmother?

I thought you were
supposed to be helping her?

She's onboard.

I mean, it's not
that much more, really.

We're going to the Christmas
Pageant meeting today anyway,

so now we just go a little bit
early to let Troy audition.

Hey, listen, hon?
I gotta go.

Okay.

Call me later?

Yeah. Sure, sure.

- Hey.
- Hey.

Do I smell pancakes?

Hey, buddy.
You already had breakfast.

But not pancakes!

I gotta go.

Troy, we...

I mean, it's pancakes.

I really appreciate this.

No problem.
That's what neighbors are for...

even temporary ones.

And you'll be happy to know
that Troy and I went over

his lines
for the play this morning.

He's doing great,

but he's, you know,
a little nervous.

I'll be very encouraging.

Thank you.

Look at that.

I guess that's what happens

when you're always
running behind.

Perks of being a boss...

no one will say anything.

True.

Okay, here are my house keys,

if you have to run over there
for anything.

Do you mind calling me,

letting me know
how the auditions go?

- Absolutely.
- Thank you.

- Bye, Troy.
- See ya.

- See you soon.
- Bye.

Simon?

You came!

Wonderful!

Simon Baylock, this is my
grandmother, Louise Griffith.

At last.

I've heard so much about you.

- Good things, I hope.
- Of course.

It's my understanding
you're lead on the Toy Drive.

That's right.

Do you have a second
to go over some details?

- I was assigned to help out.
- Of course.

I'll help Troy with his lines.

- Good morning, Ross.
- David, good morning.

Everyone's
in the conference room.

Already?

Don't worry.
I brought Christmas danishes.

Smart man.

Where's Troy?

He's with my neighbor, Louise,
and her granddaughter, Sophie.

Sophie?

Is she cute?

What, are you 12?

I mean, sometimes, yeah.

Let's just get this show
on the road, shall we?

You never answered the question.

Not gonna.

Very good. Next.

"It's a miniature sleigh
with..."

Oh, right.

"Eight tiny..."

"Reindeer!"

Well done, Walker.

Next. Troy?

"Merry Christmas..."

You'll have to speak up.

"Merry Christmas..."

A bit louder, please.

"To all..."

"And..."

"To all a..."

"...Night."

Hey, buddy.
So, how'd it go?

Yeah.
I got fifth reindeer.

That's great.
That's Comet, right?

You should be proud of yourself.

I am.

I wanted Toby, he's the lead,

but I got stage fright.

Well, you know,
that happens to the best of us.

Really?

Yeah.

Sometimes, even I get
too scared to speak,

and I do it for a living.

But guess what...

reindeer number five, Comet,

is going to be

the coolest reindeer
on the team.

- No doubt.
- Thanks.

Here's Sophie.

Hey.
I took some photos for you.

Thank you.

He did pretty good,
despite the quiet act.

- As long as he's okay.
- He seems fine.

So we're finished here.

We were thinking
of going to the toy store

to pick up some items
off Grandma's Toy Drive list.

Just calling to see

if you're okay
if Troy comes with us.

David?

Did you say toy drive?

For the pageant.

- Are you still there?
- Yes.

Do you mind if I join you guys?

Sure.

Awesome.

That's cute.

This was my favorite
toy camera when I was a kid.

I used to pretend
I was on the plains of Africa,

taking photos of lions
and elephants and tigers.

Two of them?

Yeah, one for Troy
and one for the toy drive.

So, tech is your baby, huh?

It is.

I guess that makes you
the guy to go to

if my laptop acts up.

Yeah. And I'll tell you the same
thing I tell everybody...

- Turn it off and on.
- Turn it off and on.

So what made you want to come
to the toy store with us?

It's a longer story,
but toy drives

have always held
a special place in my heart,

so whenever I get a chance
to give to one, I do.

I feel like you have
a lot of stories.

Doesn't everybody?

You more than most.

I can see it in your eyes.

David?

It has come to my attention

that you and Troy

haven't gotten
your Christmas tree yet.

Troy, tomorrow's Saturday.

Do you want to get a tree?

Can Sophie come?

Me?

Sophie's great
at choosing Christmas trees!

In a tree farm,
which makes it very easy.

Troy, Sophie's here
to help her grandmother first,

remember?

It's fine.

You should all go together.

See?

Then that's settled.

Let's go get that robot kit
you saw.

Yeah.

All right.

Are you getting the impression
that maybe...

My grandmother is playing
amateur matchmaker?

Yeah.

Okay, so it's not just me.

Nope.
I will talk to Grandma.

Yeah, and I'll talk to Troy.

Not that you don't seem
really great.

You, too!
And it's a huge compliment.

Same.

- I'm just really busy with work.
- Ditto.

- And I have a boyfriend.
- Oh, and there's that.

We don't even live
in the same state.

No. It's a total non-starter.

I agree.

Good. You get it.

Completely.

Now that that's settled,

do you want to come
and get a tree with us tomorrow?

Absolutely!

Cool.

- Good morning.
- Good morning.

Are you excited

about the tree shopping
with the Murphys?

About that.

It's not going to happen.

You're not going?

I'm going.

But, me and David.

That's not going to happen.

I'm sure I don't know
what you're talking about.

I'm sure you do.

I'm dating Brent.

So you say.

Because it's the truth.

Are you in love with him?

I... we're still early
in our relationship.

Six months.

Is still early.

Fine.

What do you like about him?

Well, he's successful and smart.

Do you have fun together?

Does he need to be a comedian?

He should be someone
you connect with.

Your grandfather
always made me laugh.

And think and feel.

I'm sorry.

You must miss him.

Christmas has a way
of inspiring reflection.

And I just want you to have

the same kind of
loving relationship I knew.

And if Brent
can give that to you,

then I'm happy for you.

He's here.

Have fun.

Are you sure
you're going to be okay?

Very sure.

Simon might drop by

to pick up some toys
for this Toy Drive.

Simon?

It's not like that.

Bye.

This is awesome!

I just wish Riggs was with us.

Me, too, bud,

but this is going to be
a long day.

All right, got any preferences?

Do they have Fraser Firs?

I don't think so.

Because Fraser Firs
have excellent needle retention.

Is that so?

How do you know that?

I did a photoshoot
at a tree farm once.

The things you learn.

Did you know that

even though spruce
is popular for Christmas trees,

they lose their needles quickly?

True story.

I want it to be tall!

Tall is also good.

Well, then tall it shall be!

Perfect.

This one, please.

Thank you.

Are you sure you don't want
to cut it down yourself?

Nah. This way,

we have more time
for hot chocolate and doughnuts.

Yeah.

More importantly...

this!

Gotcha!

Can I get
some more hot chocolate?

You're done already?
It was hot.

It's not too hot.

All right.
One more.

But make it small.

You've already got enough sugar
rushing through your veins.

- Okay.
- Small!

- What?
- Nothing.

You just seem so relaxed.

Have I been uptight
since you met me?

I wouldn't say uptight,

more like focused on work.

I'm sure it seems like
I work all the time,

but believe it or not,

I cut down significantly
after...

...after Troy
came to live with me.

Having someone to look after

can really shift
one's perspective.

I'll bet.

So, what's keeping you busy now?

The end-of-the-year
board report.

And an app project idea.

Or lack thereof.

Why the lack of?

Ascension Invention

has been incredibly prosperous
these past 15 years,

and I don't mean
to sound ungrateful,

but I feel as though
we could do more.

More as in...?

Well, that's just it,

I don't know.

It's a gut feeling,

but it feels worth trusting,
you know?

There's this idea

that we could be doing
something else

to connect and help people.

I just can't see it yet.

Does that sound crazy?

No. Not at all.

It sounds inspiring.

Well, good, because it will be
if I can ever figure it out.

So what inspires you?

Well, I love my career.

I love being able to capture
moments in time,

and I like being able

to take those photos
of people and places

back to other people

who might otherwise
never get to see it.

That's really great.

It's more than
just a little bit important

to love what you do.

It is...

I sense a qualifier lurking.

Not about my career,
but maybe...

What?

How I'm doing it.

At least right now.

Okay, so in what way?

Well, I told you

how my parents
worked all the time,

and I wonder if
maybe that's what I'm doing now.

I mean...

what about...

Life?

Yeah, life.

I was in a similar situation

when the accident happened with
my brother and sister-in-law.

Except I wasn't thinking about
life outside of work.

Life outside of work found me,
and I was not prepared.

Well, you seem to be
handling it very well,

and Troy is great.

Thanks.

Though much of that credit
belongs to his parents,

Daniel and Beth.

They did most of the real work.

I'm just trying
not to mess it up.

Well, as your unofficial
co-nanny,

I think you're doing
more than just that.

Thanks again.

It's been
an unexpected blessing,

to be honest.

Before, I had no one.

Now I have Troy.

It's hard to imagine
my world without him.

He really is my best friend.

David Murphy?

Jodi Hall.

Hi. What are you doing here?

I'm getting a tree, of course.

Right.

Sophie Griffith,
this is Jodi Hall.

Hello.

Hi. Temporary neighbor.

It's really great
to see you again.

What brings you to Bainbridge?

I thought
you never left Seattle.

That is a longer story.

Maybe we should get together
and catch up?

Sure. Yeah.

Wonderful.

My number's the same.

Got it.

It was nice
to meet you, Sophie.

Yeah, nice to meet you, too.

We dated three years ago.

- You mean when...?
- Yeah. Yeah.

Everything in my life
was chaotic.

It wasn't fair to keep
bringing her through it.

Did she want to be a part of it?

No.

That's just it.

I needed stability.

- Yum!
- Bam.

- Shorter glass.
- What?

Just a small.

All right.

All right. Cheers.

- Cheers.
- Cheers.

Do you know what you're going
to ask Santa for?

I think I have an idea.

Who do we have here?

Troy Murphy.

- Welcome, Troy Murphy.
- Thank you.

Do you know
what you want for Christmas?

Well, I can't guarantee it,

but I'll sure do my best.

Okay. Thanks.

Santa wouldn't have smiled
if it was anything impossible,

right?

- I don't think so.
- Okay. Good.

- Thank you. Merry Christmas.
- All right. Merry Christmas.

- How was it?
- It was good, it was good.

All right.

Thank you.

Shall we?

- Merry Christmas.
- Merry Christmas.

- Thanks a lot.
- All right, we'll see you again.

Next.

There you are.

Is everything all right?

My agent just texted me
to check my voicemail,

said it was good news.

What about?

- I'll call her later.
- No, no, no, no.

You cannot leave me
in suspense like this.

That's not fair.
Come on.

Okay.

I booked Steibis Skiwear!

It shoots January 4th
in Switzerland!

Yes!

Congratulations!

That's amazing.

You deserve this.

Hey, Sophie!

Brent!

What are you doing here?

Well, the band is playing
in Seattle, so...

Hey, Brent Willoughby.

David Murphy,
her grandmother's neighbor.

Great.
It's great to meet you, David.

Yeah, you too.

We were getting
a Christmas tree.

We?

It's for
my nephew and I.

Oh, great.

Well, you want help
bringing it inside?

You know what,
I'd love that, yeah.

Okay.

- We'll see you in there?
- Yeah.

Do you want to get that side?

Oh, yeah.
I've been everywhere...

the Amazon, Morocco, Antarctica.

- Really?
- Yeah.

It's not all about
the glamour, Troy.

Being a professional
photographer

means also being alert

to the dangers
in the world, too.

Always keep that in mind

when you're trying to get
that perfect shot.

I will.

Soph knows
what I'm talking about, hmm?

Yeah.

Yeah, where nothing else matters

but getting the shot...

especially now
since your career is...

She got the assignment
in Switzerland.

You did?

You got the Steibis gig?

Yeah.

That's fantastic.

Thank you.

Why...
Why didn't you tell me?

I just found out.

Well you know what...

- Congratulations.
- Thank you.

You're leaving?

Troy's had a long day,
so I'm going to get him to bed.

But you'll be here
tomorrow, right?

What time are you coming?

Troy, let's let these ladies

have some time
to themselves, okay?

But we were all supposed
to decorate our tree tomorrow.

We'll talk about this tomorrow.

I had really good time today.

Yeah, me too.

Thanks for letting me help
pick out your Christmas tree.

I appreciate it.

Good night, Louise.

Thanks for dinner.

Anytime!

Bye, Mrs. Griffith.

- You all set?
- Yup.

Out we go.

Is the guy who talks a lot
Sophie's boyfriend?

Yeah, he is.

Troy...

hey, buddy.

Remember,
Sophie's only here temporarily,

then she has to go back
to her own life, okay?

Well, that doesn't mean
she won't come back here.

Let's wait
till Sophie comes back

to do the decorations.

All right.

I think that went well.

Except for the part

where you scared Troy about
the dangers of photography.

He'll be fine.

Says the man

who doesn't have to
put him to sleep

if he has nightmares.

Well, neither will you.

Don't forget,

this suburban nanny thing
is temporary, Soph.

You'll be back
to your normal life soon enough.

Nothing about our lives
is normal.

Bainbridge is normal.

Yeah, and boring.

Hey, I grew up here.

Well, as much as
you grew up anywhere.

You and your parents
were globetrotters,

just like us.

Speaking of,

I might get a chance

to sh**t an Icelandic
travel book.

How long will you be gone for?

Three, four weeks,

but you'll be in Switzerland,

so there'll be
a minimal overlap.

Unless you book another gig,

which...

you probably will.

This is how it's gonna be
for us, isn't it?

You're gonna be
working over there,

and I'm gonna be
working here, and...

Is that suddenly a problem?

I think...

I want more.

Hey, look, Soph, I...

Don't worry,

I'm not proposing.

I'm thinking for myself,

and I just, I don't know
what that looks like yet.

Are you sure you're not
just getting caught up

in the trappings of Christmas?

Feeling sentimental?

Maybe...

but I find myself
looking at families,

and wondering
what it would be like

to be more settled.

I don't know.

I do know that you and I
aren't working.

We're not getting enough time

to see if we could work,

and that's not gonna change.

I can't say I'm surprised.

Yes, I know.

You were never
Brent's biggest fan.

He's fine, if chatty,

and I'm glad David got to see
the two of you together.

Grandma,
we've talked about this.

But you were dating Brent then.

Now you're not.

That's not the only reason.

There's Troy to consider,

and they're a package deal,

and then there's my career.

I know you're not telling me
to give up on that.

Of course not.

I know you love it,
and you're good at it,

and I liked mine, too.

Then what are you saying?

Find balance.

I've been hearing that
a lot lately,

and it's not easy.

No, it is not,

but one thing older people
know from experience is,

it's necessary for a good life,

and I want the best possible
life for you,

whatever that winds up being.

I love you.

I love you, darling.

I've come for Reindeer #5.

He's just putting on his boots.

Great.

Ross!

Hi. I'm Ross Reeler,
David's friend.

Hi. Sophie Griffith.

- Nice to meet you.
- Nice to meet you, too.

- Come in, guys.
- Sure.

Ross and I are partners.

Although we've known each other
since we were pledge brothers.

Sophie's here to pick up Troy
for the play rehearsal.

I'll go check on him.

Doesn't matter
how many times I see it,

it always amuses me

to see Seattle's
Best Business Bachelor

go into paternal-mode.

Seattle's
Best Business Bachelor?

Nope! No, no, no, no...

Yes!

2014.

Seattle Morning Magazine.

You should've seen the photos.

I wanna see the photos.

No, you will never
see the photos.

Ross and I were
expanding the company,

and we just thought
it was good publicity.

It was good publicity,

although I will say,

the photo of you

staring off into the distance

with the sunlight
all behind you,

I mean, that was my favorite.

Why don't you go take a seat,

and we'll get to work
in a minute.

But it's more fun
to give Sophie the details

and watch you squirm.

Speak for yourself.

Anyway, it was very nice
to meet you, Sophie.

You, too, Ross.

Yeah, I seriously
wanna see those photos.

No.

Ready?

Yeah, let's go.

See you, Uncle David.

Bye.

Have fun!

See you.

Hey, she is cute.

She's a nice person

who happens to be being
very generous with her time.

She's also cute.

She has a boyfriend, Ross.

That's too bad.

I thought you guys had a nice
little banter thing going on.

Well, it's a moot point.

But do you wish it wasn't moot?

It doesn't matter.

She lives in California,
I live here.

Her career takes her
all over the world,

whereas I have to stay here

and focus on raising Troy
in Bainbridge.

And besides, she's already said,

she's only here

to make the most
of an unexpected situation.

Nothing more.

Okay.

Let's try it once.

Reindeer up.

Now, dash away, dash away,
dash away, all!

Which one's yours?

Well, I...

Reindeer #5.

He's adorable.

Thanks.

The Santa version, okay,

we're gonna try it
one more time,

and I'll be Santa, okay?

So I get in the sleigh,
and, remember...

Hi, Marissa.

I've emailed you the contract.

Just sign it
and scan it back to me,

and I'll get your itinerary.

How long do you think
I'll be gone for?

Well, they already have

a couple of the locations
in mind,

but they said they're willing
to extending the scout

by a few days

if you have some suggestions.

What?

Nothing.

Troy's playing with a prop
from the Christmas play.

Is that the neighbor's nephew
that Brent mentioned?

He told you about the Murphys?

He said you've been spending
quite a bit of time with them.

Well, they've been
such a surprise,

a good surprise.

I'm gonna miss them.

You're not thinking about
staying up there,

are you?

What? No!

Why would you ask that?

Because Brent also said
you two broke up,

and I can't help wondering
if there's a connection.

I'm not saying there is,

but...

I don't have to live
in San Francisco, right?

Since I travel so much.

Well, obviously
you can be based anywhere,

but it helps if you're
close to the action

at this stage of your career.

You know that.

I do.

Look, just...

try to keep that in mind
when you're there.

I mean, everything
is going so well.

There's no reason
to shake things up

unnecessarily,

okay?

Okay.

Bye...

Hey, Uncle David.

Hey!

- How was rehearsal?
- It was good.

Being a reindeer's cool.

I had no doubt.

Hey, why don't you go
wash up your hands?

You've been out all day.

All right.

Waiting until
the last possible second.

Christmas is next week.

Yeah, I know,

and I want this place
to be fully festive,

so, hopefully,
we can get it all done today,

'cause tomorrow,

Troy and I are going
into the office.

Why are you taking him to work?

I had an unexpected lunch.

Do you want Grandma and me
to watch Troy?

Really?

Hello, co-nanny here.

Besides, I love
hanging out with Troy.

We've had a lot of fun.

Well, thank you,
that would be fantastic.

I wasn't sure, you know,
about asking.

Why?

We've been doing it all week.

This lunch isn't work-related.

How mysterious.

It's so not mysterious.

It's just with Jodi.

Jodi?

Like, ex-Jodi?

It's not like that.

It's just a-just a catch-up.

That's all.

Do you want to decorate
the tree?

I would love to.

As soon as I locate
those tree decorations.

You can't find them?

I didn't say that.

It's a work in progress.

All right, then,

let's go look for them.

Okay, how long
have you lived here?

Since May.

Look, I know
it's a bit of a mess,

but it's hard to find the time.

And when I do find the time...

well, it's hard because

a lot of these boxes
came from Dan and Beth's.

You'll settle in eventually.

My Charles Dickens
Christmas Collection.

Do they go on the tree?

No, no, they do not.

Got it.

This was Dan and Beth's.

As soon as it got
to the top of the tree,

they used to say

then they were
ready for Christmas.

What were they like,

your brother and sister-in-law?

I thought Dan hung the moon.

Beth, too.

When you mentioned
the toy drive,

it brought back
a lot of memories.

Sometimes, that was the only way

we could get presents
at Christmas.

I mean, my parents did
whatever they could,

but we had some lean years,

and so we had to rely on
the kindness and charity

of other good people
to see us through,

more times than I can remember.

I'm just so grateful.

I really hope that comes across.

I'm still struggling to...

you know, learn to be okay

when I can't repay
somebody else's kindness.

But kindness doesn't
need to be repaid,

not if it's genuine...

and letting others help you

is just as much of a gift
as receiving it.

Uncle David!

Did you find
the decorations yet?

Yeah, we're coming!

Thank you.

You're welcome.

Perfect.

You're gonna
blind somebody.

I'm gonna put this
on top of the fireplace, okay?

Perfect!

Three, two...

One.

Whoa!

Those look good.

Those look really good.

They taste pretty great, too.

I know.

We're not supposed to eat those.

Her kitchen, her rules.

Okay.

They are good.

They really are.

Maybe you could quit photography

and become a baker.

Not gonna happen.

I just thought it might be a way

to see you more often.

Well, that can be done without
a professional overhaul.

Hey, Riggs looks
a little lonely.

He needs a dog biscuit.

Thank you, Troy.

No problem.

Hey, Riggs.
Hey, buddy.

Wanna treat?

So,

David's on a date?

Well, he says it's not a date,

but it is his ex,

and she's beautiful,

and she obviously wants
to hang out with him,

so you do the math.

I feel you already did.

Where are you going?

Simon's coming by

to take me to the theater's
holiday party.

It's his way
of trying to recruit me.

It won't work,

but, still,
I'll get some free food.

What about your foot?

Getting better every day.

Okay, well, take your cane,

and make sure you sit
as much as possible.

I'm serious.

So bossy.

Have fun.

It's so lovely
to run into you.

Yeah, of all the places

I thought
that I'd run into you again,

a Christmas tree farm
in Bainbridge

has to be at the bottom
of the list.

Yeah, well, a lot has changed.

I can tell.

Is Sophie good with Troy?

Oh, yeah.

But we're not romantic,
or anything like that.

Okay.

How are things with Troy?

Much better than they were
in the beginning,

that's for sure.

I think we're getting
the hang of it,

or starting to.

You have to be
careful, don't you?

With children.

There's so much responsibility.

There's a reason
that I was at the tree farm,

one I owe all to you...

and how you...

broke up with me when you did.

Well, now I'm intrigued.

I'm engaged.

Jodi!

That's why I was
at the tree farm.

My fiance, his daughter, and I,

we were buying
our first tree together.

That's terrific.
Congratulations.

Right?

Me as a step-mother.

Yeah, I never
pictured you like that.

I know.

You danced around that

when you were
ending things with me,

but I could read
between the lines.

You were wrong,

but you were too busy
pushing me away to notice.

And I'm glad that you didn't.

Being engaged,

it's the best thing
that's happened to me,

so thank you.

You're welcome.

Now, tell me more
about this Sophie

you're supposedly not dating.

Number one, we're not dating.

- But you want to.
- No...

No, don't try
and sneak that past me,

because I won't believe you.

Come on, Riggs.

You think he's tired?

Yeah, maybe a little.

Hey!

Hi!

Hi, Uncle David.
You're home for the day?

I sure am.

You know, I had this
sudden urge to go ice skating,

which never happens,

and I thought to myself,

"Who'd want to go with me,
I wonder?"

Yeah.

Me too?

Do you want to?

I'd love to.

Ha ha!

Pow!

Come on, Riggs.
Come on, Riggs...

Come on, Riggs, let's go!

So, how'd it go, with Jodi?

It was good.

I got to hear all about
her engagement.

She's engaged?

She is, yeah.

That's wonderful.

Is it?

It is, isn't it?
I mean...

I don't know.

I'm happy for her.

Excellent.

How's Brent doing?

I don't know.

We... we broke up.

You did?

Yeah, after the dinner.

We never really spent
enough time together

to find out if we were
right for each other...

Right.

...and the way
things were going,

I didn't think
that wasn't going to change.

Are you okay?

'Cause we can go...

I am, thanks.

Hey, Uncle David?

Can we go ski up at...

Squamuh...

Squalmie...

Snoqualmie?

Yeah.

Of course.

We're going up
after Christmas

to do some sledding.

It's gorgeous.

Do you and Louise
want to join us?

She can bring a friend,

hang out at the lodge
for a couple hours

while we tear up the snow.

Yeah, that sounds fun.

I'll ask.

All right.

Uncle David, I'm kind of hungry.

A common refrain.

Do you have dinner plans?

Grandma's out,

I'm heating up some leftovers.

Uncle David made pot roast.

You cook?

Yeah, you know,
when I have time.

They don't call me
"The Best Business Bachelor"

for nothin'.

Come on.

And he is out
like a light.

He's kind of
a puzzle wizard, isn't he?

Yeah, he gets that from Beth.

I kinda love this song.

Well, then,

it would be a shame

to let a song you kinda love
go to waste,

wouldn't it?

Shall we?

I should probably head back.

Thanks for spending
the day with us.

We had a lot of fun.

So did I.

What am I doing?

Okay, so tell me
if I've got this straight.

The idea is

that it's an app
that helps people

that want to do nice things
for people at Christmas

connect with people
in need of specific help?

"Christmas Giving,"

and we keep it local,

just here in Bainbridge
and Seattle at first.

We'll work out the kinks,

and we'd probably
have to vet both sides,

but I think
this could really work.

It could definitely work.

I mean, it's gonna take
a lot of man-hours,

but it's a great idea.

What got you thinking of this?

it was Sophie.

How generous she's been
with her time

and everything.

It got me thinking about

how this is the time of year

that people are
most motivated to give.

Sophie.

She's been so amazing, Ross.

Guess she was
the inspiration you needed.

All right, check this out.

Yeah.

It's Brigid
from Steibis Skiwear.

Hi there, Brigid...

Yes. Yes, Sophie is thrilled
to be working with you,

she has a ton of ideas...

Push the date up?

To when?

December 23rd?

The sh**t would be the 26th,

but you have to fly back
to San Francisco

and pack

and catch a plane to Zurich.

Yeah, but I have plans.

The Christmas Pageant
is on the 23rd.

I can tell them
you can't make it,

but they could go with
another photographer.

Tell me what you want me to do.

Tell them...

tell them I'll be there.

Okay.

There she is.

Louise said
I'd find you out here.

You were looking for me?

I am.

I wanted to thank you.

For?

For inspiring me
to come up with my new app.

It's called "Christmas Giving."

- You figured it out?
- Yeah!

It's all thanks to you,

and everything you've been doing

for your grandmother and Troy...

and me.

Sophie...

I...

What is it?

They pulled up the photoshoot.

I have to leave on the 23rd.

Leave Bainbridge.

David...

Which we both
always knew you would be.

I guess I just let myself
forget for a little while.

We both did.

I'm sorry.

Hey...

You have done nothing wrong.

It's all just...

...an unexpected situation.

I don't get it.

Yes, you do.

No, I really don't.

You obviously have feelings
for one another.

And very different lives.

He's a single parent
living in Washington state,

and I'm in San Francisco

when I'm not constantly
on the go everywhere.

Things can be rearranged.

But, Grandma, think about it.

I've barely known him two weeks.

What am I supposed to do?

Completely uproot
from everything

over something that
hasn't even really begun?

I would have
for your grandfather

after that first weekend,
absolutely,

and he would have done
the same for me.

The difference is here
there's a child involved.

That changes things.

It was hard enough with Brent

when we lived in the same city

and we had the same profession.

At least he understood

when I had go to Africa,

or Australia
at the drop of a hat.

What if Troy doesn't?

I don't want him to resent me,

and David's right,

he's already
been through enough.

But why?

I don't understand.

I already told you,

they're busy getting ready
for Christmas themselves.

But they were busy
this whole time,

and it wasn't a big deal.

I just...

I really miss them.

I know.

Troy...

Troy?

Come on in.

I don't understand.

Hey, listen,

you and I?

We'll always be friends,
I promise,

and I'll be back.

I'll miss you, though.

Troy!

Troy!

Hi.

Hey.

He's here.

Hey...

Come on, buddy, get your things.

Can Riggs still come with us
to the play?

We'll see.

You're gonna do great
in the play.

I...

I just wish you could be there.

Me too.

- Good night.
- Good night.

Thank you.

You're welcome.

Make sure you take

as many photos of the Alps
as possible.

Absolutely.

Are you sure
you don't want to say goodbye?

I emailed
a little something yesterday,

and I never heard back,

so it's probably for the best.

Are you sure they got it?

Maybe go over just to check.

And there's a sign
from the universe.

I love you, Grandma.

I love you, too.

Merry Christmas.

Merry Christmas, sweetheart.

I'll call you soon, okay?

I'm ready to go.

Let's go.

David, isn't it gorgeous?

It's beautiful.

- Are you excited?
- Yeah.

Of course, we're excited
to see our big man in action.

- Hey, can I hold Riggs?
- Sure.

Did you get Sophie's email?

No, when did she send it?

Yesterday.

Can we check that email?

You know
you could lose the job, right?

Yes,

but I just have to have faith

that there'll be more
in the future.

You can always
go back to Bainbridge

in the future, too.

But I can't make up

missing Troy
in the Christmas play.

I remember that.

I like us like that.

Yeah.

You got me so good.

I asked Santa
for a family for Christmas.

What do you say we make Sophie
a Christmas card? Huh?

- Sure.
- Yeah.

Well, let me at least check
to see if we can push it,

so you can leave
a couple of days later.

Okay,

but I'm willing to let it go
if necessary.

I have to say, when you fall,
you fall completely.

I really do.

I have Brigid's home phone.

I'll see what I can do.

Agent me wants to say
you owe me,

but friend me

is really happy for you.

Louise?

Could you do us a favor
and make sure Sophie gets this?

Well, of course.

There you are!

Something wrong?

Yeah, the boy who was
supposed to play Toby

got a cold,
and he won't be here.

Can Troy step in?

Well, I don't know.

Troy?

Do you want to do this?

But what about
my reindeer position?

I've already
figured that out.

Okay.

Come on, Riggs.

Have fun.

I'm just going to
step out for a moment.

Are you all right?

Yeah.

I just need some air.

Those photos Sophie took,

they're...

Well, she's extremely talented.

I'm very glad that
she's pursuing her dreams.

Thanks, Marissa.

- Sophie!
- Grandma!

Oh, honey...

Where are Troy and David?

Troy's backstage,

and David just went outside.

They made this for you.

Thank you.

Excuse me.

"Dear Sophie.

Thank you so much
for everything you did for us

while you were here.

Part of me wants to find
a way to repay you,

but you're right,

genuine kindness
never needs to be repaid,

and if there's one thing
you are, Sophie,

it's genuine.

So instead,

I'll simply tell you
how much you mean to me

and Troy,

and how our Christmas
was made perfect

by having you here with us.

We will miss you.

I miss you.

David."

Thanks for the card.

Sophie?

What are you doing here?

I thought you'd be halfway
to Switzerland by now.

Well, I realized

that I could take the assignment
and gain a new client,

but I'd risk losing something
much more important to me,

you and Troy,

and spending this Christmas
with the people I love.

I've never really hated
technology before.

Steibis is okay with

pushing my departure
to the new year.

Does that mean you still have
the assignment?

If I accept it.

Accept it.

Really?

Yes.

We'll have to wait
till I get back

to go skiing.

Well, maybe in Snoqualmie,

but I hear Switzerland's
not too shabby.

You'll come with me?

If you want us to.

Yes, I'd love that.

We can make this work.

We can.

The play!

Is starting!

We can't miss Reindeer #5.

No, but actually,
there's been a bit of a change.

Up, reindeer!

Now, dash away, dash away,

dash away, all!

h*-h*-h*-h*.

h*-h*-h*...

Merry Christmas to all...

...and to all a good night!