So...
What do you think of
my latest masterpiece, Eliot?
I know it isn't
one of my best.
But it does remind me of
how pretty it was back here.
Oh, things are fine.
But I do miss you, Eliot.
Good morning.
Mr. Eason, you're late.
Here's your mail.
Any calls?
Your mother... Twice.
Uh, Mr. Weller again.
He wasn't too thrilled
About the fact that
you never called him back.
Anything else?
And Mr. Backis
is waiting for you.
Richard, I know that our bank
Has been doing business
with your father
And his company for 50 years.
But we're, um...
Concerned about the
scope of this project.
Everything is going
according to plan so far.
Well, Richard, the board
approved the project
With your father at the helm.
Since his passing,
There has been the
question of...
Whether I'm up to the task.
Your father had
decades of experience,
And that experience is what
got this project off the ground.
Since my father died,
we're on schedule
To break ground in
three weeks with no delays.
Mr. Eason?
It's your mother, Richard.
Well, have her
call me back.
Honey, this is the third
time she's called.
She says that
it's important.
I think you should
take the call.
Ok, put her through. This
will just take a second.
Mom, I'm really busy.
I need a favor.
This new easel
isn't working for me,
And my old one's
up in the garage attic.
I can't right now.
I'm in the middle of
a very important meeting.
Ok, I'll just
go get it myself.
But if I fall...
If I break my hip...
Mom, I'm gonna have
to call you back. Fine.
And don't climb
up that ladder.
Bye.
%% Find that someone special %%
%% give him love,
make him your own %%
Hmm.
Hello?
Ella bear? It's grandma.
Hi, grandma, how are you?
You won't believe
what your father did.
My guess is it's more of
what he didn't do.
I can't paint
with this new easel,
The one your father
bought me.
And my old one is way up
in the garage attic,
And he says he's
too busy to come get it
For his own mother.
Yeah, grandma, I don't know
what you want me to do.
It'd take me a couple
of hours to get there.
Damn easel!
I never expected to be
a struggling artist
At my age.
That was a joke.
What's the matter?
Are you sure
everything's ok?
Yeah.
How are your classes?
They're ok.
You're doing well?
Yeah, my grades are fine.
Are you still
writing songs down
In that book of yours?
Sort of.
You sound so sad,
Ella bear.
Grandma...
Look, Ella, there's no
one keeping you there.
You can do
whatever you want.
The world is open to
all of your dreams.
Whatever that means.
Thanks.
Bye.
Mom?
Mom?
Mom, I told you not...
Not to climb the ladder.
Your father
isn't around anymore,
And you're too busy,
So how was I supposed
to get my easel?
Plus I found this painting
of Annie's point.
That's great. Now, get off the
ladder before you hurt yourself.
I still have to get
my easel.
Get off. Step off.
I'll get it.
Come on.
Be careful.
Mom, why are you
limping?
I'm fine.
You could've fallen
off the ladder
And killed yourself.
I didn't fall, and
I'm still on the earth.
Now, will you please just
go up and get my easel?
I always meant
to finish this one.
I know this is a very
difficult time for you.
But I can't be with you
24 hours a day.
I was asking
for five minutes.
Can't an old woman get
any help around the house?
How would you feel about
getting an apartment?
Or one of those condos
down by the lake?
This place appraised for
much higher than you expected.
Your father would
never hear of it.
Mom, this house
is too big for you.
It's my home.
Well, the yard's a mess.
And you left the stove on
twice last week.
Don't speak to me that
way! I'm your mother.
I'm trying
to be helpful.
No, you're not.
Your father and I
built this house,
And I want
to stay here.
This just
isn't practical.
But I feel
comfortable here.
Mom...
that's enough, Richard!
I'm fine, and I'm not
going anywhere.
Now, if you have
a problem with that,
You should take it up
with your father.
So, what do you
think, mom?
Nursing school or
a songwriting career?
Everybody else seems
to have an opinion.
Here you are.
Thank you.
Oh, Louise!
You won't believe
What I found
in the attic.
My unfinished painting
of Annie's point.
Annie's point? Oh!
That's the place where you and
Eliot wanted to build a house.
Oh, not just
a house.
Our dream house.
Come on, sweetheart.
We never got to it.
No.
I sat in that hospital
room with Eliot for months.
And then, just a few
minutes before he passed,
He told me his one wish...
To be set free
at Annie's point
On our 50th anniversary.
You have an anniversary
coming up, don't you?
In nine days.
What's holding you back?
You're thinking of
dropping out of college?
Do you have some sort of
plan that I don't know about?
I want to pursue
a songwriting career.
Ella, you're gonna have
lots and lots of time
For hobbies and stuff like
that after you graduate.
Right now you've got
to have your degree.
Where did this songwriting
idea come from, anyway?
I never heard you
sing a note.
Mom did.
Oh.
I see.
Well, trust me...
Even if your mother
was still alive,
You would not
be doing this.
You don't know that.
I've already paid
the tuition,
So please finish out
this year.
Dad, I can't.
Do you have any idea
how much it costs
For me to send you
to this place?
Yeah, I do. But you don't
know what it's like for me.
Come on, Ella! It's school!
It's not prison! Dad!
I know you're going through
some sort of teenage crisis,
But I am not gonna let
you throw away your future
To follow some
stupid fantasy!
I knew you wouldn't
understand.
You don't care
about my feelings.
All you care about
is this stupid company.
You don't know what
you're talking about.
This stupid
company is...
Grandma said there was
nothing keeping me there,
And you know what?
She was right.
Got good news
and bad news.
Your echocardiogram showed significant
blockage on two of your arteries.
I certainly hope
that's the bad news.
It is.
The good news is,
With a fairly
routine bypass,
You'll be as good
as new. But...
I've never been sick
a day in my life.
But, to be honest,
After watching Eliot in that
hospital all those months,
I never want to
set foot in one again.
I understand.
But this is
a serious situation.
Without the operation...
I could die?
Yes.
You could die.
We need to get you into the
hospital as soon as possible.
Can I have
a day or two
Before I commit
to a surgery date?
Sure.
In the meantime,
we need to get you going
On a new blood pressure
medication.
It could make you feel a
little lightheaded at first,
So try to take it easy.
Can I drive?
I wouldn't recommend it.
At least
not for a while.
Sorry about that, everybody.
What did I miss?
I was just telling
your mother...
I'll fill him in later.
Come on, dear.
Annie... Remember.
With this new medication,
No driving if
you feel lightheaded.
Thank you, doctor.
Let's hear it again
for Kim Bobletta!
And now please
welcome... Ella.
Sorry. Whoops.
Are you sure Dr. Meldon
didn't say anything else?
It's just blood pressure
medication?
That's all.
But, now that
I can't go alone,
I need you to make
that trip with me.
Mom, that's
2,000 Miles away.
I've got a great car.
I can't do this
right now, mom.
I told you, there's too
much going on at work.
As soon as
the project is over,
I'll take you there
myself.
That might be too late.
Too late for what? Mom,
what are you not telling me?
Nothing. But with the wedding
anniversary coming up...
I'll take you to a nice dinner to
celebrate your wedding anniversary.
Why don't... oh!
Oh, my!
Mom!
What if I hadn't
been here?
What would you have done?
Ok, that's it. You
can't stay here anymore.
This is not just
for my peace of mind.
It's for your safety.
What if you got someone
to stay with me?
For how long?
That's really expensive.
Your father and I
built this house
With our bare hands.
It's all I've got left.
He was my best friend.
We did everything
together.
We were supposed to leave
this earth together.
If I move to that place,
will you make me a promise?
Anything.
You have to take me
to Annie's point. Please.
I already told you,
as soon as...
I need a promise.
I promise.
And it has to be all of
us... you and me and Ella.
Ok.
And we have to drive.
It'll force you
to spend time with Ella,
Get to know
each other again,
Get to be friends again.
Mom...
Whatever you want.
I've got to go
back to work, ok?
Just call me
if you need anything.
And no stoves,
all right?
I'll see you.
Dad?
Oh!
I'm sorry.
Oh, you should not
sneak up on me.
Dad, I said
I was sorry.
Yeah, but what I'm
telling you... dad!
It's all right. What do you need, honey?
Do you like
construction?
Uh... Sure.
Did grandpa make you
work with him?
No. No, I think he just
always wanted me to...
Do whatever
made me happy.
He did say his door
would always be open,
And then one day
I just walked in. Why?
Just asking, I guess.
Mom would've been
46 tomorrow.
I know.
Remember the 40th birthday
party we threw for her?
The surprise party?
Oh, some surprise.
She knew.
Yeah, but she pretended
that she didn't.
Out of all the places
we could've gone,
She wanted to go...
Roller skating.
My knees have never
been the same.
Dad?
I really don't think
that I'm making a mistake.
To tell you the truth, I'm not
really sure what you're doing.
I know I have
some talent with music.
I just don't know...
Sorry.
Hello?
Oh, yes, Mr. Backis.
No, no. We've avoided
that with Mr. Nucci.
Tomorrow? Um...
I'm supposed
to bring my mother
To a retirement
community tomorrow.
Mr. Backis, can I
call you back?
Thank you.
Ok, bye.
Do you want me
to go with grandma
To her new place?
It's not just
the work, Ella.
It's...
I understand.
I'll go with her.
I don't know if Richard's
gonna keep his promise.
Maybe I should just
pack the car up
And head out
to Annie's point.
It's ridiculous,
isn't it?
I know I made
that promise to you.
I'm just not sure how
I'm going to pull it off.
Well, we'll talk more
about this in the morning.
Good night, my love.
You have all your pills?
Yes, Richard.
I wish I could drive you
to the orientation.
That's ok.
It's just that I canceled
on these guys yesterday.
I said it's ok.
I know this is all
happening really fast,
But you're gonna like the
place, I know you will.
And just think...
you're gonna be
Practically neighbors
with Louise.
I'm gonna be fine.
Are you gonna be
ok to drive?
Ella's here.
I'll be fine.
All right.
So, I'll, uh...
I'll stop in later tonight
to get you settled.
Thank you.
You're a good son.
Thanks, mom.
Hey.
Make a right here,
grandma.
Gramm, you were supposed
to turn right there.
I probably should've
told your father.
I'm not moving in
there today.
What are you
talking about?
I thought about it.
I did.
But I truly
can't remember
What Annie's point
looked like.
And I need to be there
for my anniversary.
I'm going to California.
And I need you
to go with me.
What? We're going to California.
I can't.
Give me one
good reason why not.
My father.
Oh, I can handle him.
What are you gonna do,
stay here, pay rent,
Mope around? You want
to be a songwriter.
You have to have
something to write about.
It's not that easy.
You wouldn't want me to drive
there by myself, would you?
That's not fair.
I'm an old lady.
I'd be all alone
for 2,000 Miles.
And all I have
is an old map.
Grandma!
I'm also on this
new medication.
I'm not even sure
I can drive on my own.
I don't have my guitar
or any of my clothes.
Oh, we can get those.
I have plenty of cash.
And there are always
credit cards.
Thank you, Ella bear.
Come on, Ella.
Let's live a little.
I thought you said
you couldn't drive.
It's just a little
further up this way.
Put that book down
for a second,
And grab that small
painting behind your seat.
We weren't
much older than you
When grandpa moved us
from California
For a job he just
couldn't pass up.
We didn't have
a penny to our name.
But we had the world
in front of us.
And those trees.
They were like a row of
soldiers welcoming us home.
What did you leave
back in California?
Everything.
My parents, my baby
brother, you name it.
What happened with
your little brother?
We'll have plenty
of time for that.
If I'm not mistaken,
this should be it.
What happened
to the trees?
This is it.
Grandma,
this is stupid.
We can just barge in
on some strangers.
It'll be fine.
People are nicer
than you think.
I'll do the talking.
Good, 'cause I don't
want to be here.
Gotcha!
Uh...
Who are you?
Is your mother
or father home?
Mom?!
Two strange ladies
are here!
That's a good start.
I'm leaving.
Uh...
Can I help you?
Hi.
My name is Annie Eason,
And this is
my granddaughter Ella.
Can I help you?
I know this is gonna
sound unusual, but...
My husband and I built
this house years ago,
And I was wondering
if it would be possible...
For me to have
a look inside.
We should be going.
Sorry to bother you.
You see,
we left something
Behind the nook
in the kitchen, for luck.
Would it be all right
for me to see
If it's still there?
I don't know.
Mrs. Hogan...
My granddaughter and I
Are on a Journey
across the country,
And I have
a heart problem.
So I figured we could use
all the luck we could get.
We built the house
in 1960.
How long have you
been living here?
Um, five years
this July.
I hope you don't
mind my asking...
What happened to those
beautiful trees out front?
This is how the house
came to us.
Are... are you sure you know
what you're looking for?
I'm sure.
Oh, my goodness.
What is that?
A 1919
gold Liberty coin...
Given to your grandfather
by his father.
When we left California,
he said,
"hide it someplace
in your first home,
And it'll bring you
a lifetime of happiness."
We call it lucky 19.
Just before he passed,
your grandfather said
He realized this coin needed
to come back to the family.
Houses don't need luck.
People do.
Margaret, I cannot
thank you enough
For allowing us
in your home.
It's my pleasure.
Hold on a second.
I want you
to have this.
This isn't
this house, is it?
It sure is.
There used to be
trees here.
It was so beautiful.
I can't accept this.
Oh, it would mean
a great deal to me
If you could use some of that
money to plant some new trees.
I can't.
I insist.
Thank you again.
No. Thank you.
Oh... There he is again.
I'm so sorry.
Have a great trip.
Sam!
I can't believe you just
gave her all that money.
Oh, your grandfather
would want the house
To look like it did
when we were younger.
Besides, it makes
you feel good
To do things
for other people.
Whatever.
And what did you mean
when you said
You had a heart problem?
Didn't I tell you?
Um... I need
bypass surgery.
What?!
Why wouldn't you
tell me that?
You wouldn't have agreed
to come with me if I had.
Besides,
I feel great.
Do you have
a boyfriend?
No.
Had many dates lately?
No.
In my day...
A man would take you
to the movies,
Or for a soda,
And if he
interested you,
You'd spend
some time together.
But after a few months,
If he wasn't serious
about marriage,
You'd move on
to a man who was.
Kind of sounds like
an arranged marriage.
In lots of ways, it was.
Your grandpa
asked me to marry him
On our fifth date.
Women didn't have
the freedom that you have.
Some freedom. I've never
been on a second date,
Let alone a fifth.
You are a beautiful,
talented young woman. Why not?
I'd rather not discuss
my love life
With my grandma.
Doesn't sound like
there is a love life.
Even more reason
to end the discussion.
So, to answer
your question, no.
No one is "courting me"
at the moment.
%%...The earth was
nowhere to be found %%
%% and the view from... %%
Why do you think you
don't have a boyfriend?
Grandma, please!
It's like with my music.
I'm in my room,
and I'm fine.
But you get me in front
of a crowd, and I freeze.
Same thing with guys.
I get totally terrified
when I talk to them.
You're just
not flirting enough.
I don't know
how to flirt.
Nonsense. Everyone
knows how to flirt.
Not me.
Whatever.
Mom?
Hello?
Good evening. This is
Dr. Meldon's office.
Is Annie Eason
available?
No, I'm sorry, she's not.
This is her son Richard.
Is there anything
I can do?
Dr. Meldon wanted
to make sure
That she scheduled her
surgery as soon as possible.
Surgery? What surgery?
Oh, I'm sorry. I thought
Dr. Meldon told you
That Annie needs heart
surgery as soon as possible.
%% Wished upon a star %%
%% for a mansion
or a Learjet %%
%% or some fancy car %%
%% so I never
quite believed %%
%% that miracles
came true %%
%% then there was you... %%
%% 'cause I believe
in miracles tonight %%
%% I think you're
an Angel %%
%% fit to
hold me tight %%
%% it seems my life's
a fairy tale %%
%% 'cause it always
comes out right %%
%% and I believe
in miracles %%
%% tonight %%
There are people here,
grandma!
Oh, come on, girl.
Live it up.
Oh, this is
so embarrassing.
Please sit down.
Put down that notebook
for five minutes
And live a little.
This notebook
is my life.
What are you writing?
A song. What else
would I be writing?
How am I
supposed to know?
You never let anyone
look at that thing.
What's the song about?
Nothing.
Sounds like a hit.
May I see it?
I'd rather not.
Oh, please, come on.
These are great.
None of them
are done yet.
How does this one go?
I'm not gonna sing
for you.
Then I will.
%% When you find that
special someone... %%
Ok, ok, if...
if I sing,
Will you stop
embarrassing me?
You know I can't
promise you that.
You sing, I'll stop.
Ok?
I can't believe
I'm gonna do this.
%% Find that someone
special %%
%% give him love,
make him your own %%
%% stop your search %%
%% and you will find %%
%% that your heart
has found its home %%
Hey.
You some kind of
singer or something?
No.
Yes, she is.
And someday you're
gonna want her autograph.
If you ever record
that little song of yours...
I'll tell you what...
I'd buy it.
You ladies have a
lovely evening.
Now, those were
real men.
And they really
liked your style.
Heh!
And it's good
to see you smile.
It's my dad.
He had to call
sometime.
I don't know how to
use these things!
Press the green button.
Hello?
Mom? Where are you?
I'm not telling.
Mom, I talked
to Dr. Meldon.
I know about the surgery.
This is serious.
You cannot just
pick up and leave.
I can,
and I did.
Is Ella with you?
She sure is.
When are you
coming home?
We're not.
Be reasonable. You're sick. I feel fine.
I cannot go chasing all
over the country for you.
Then don't.
I'm sorry
I lied to you,
But I... I didn't know
any other way.
Please don't do this.
We love you, and we'll
call you tomorrow.
And don't sell
my house!
'Cause I'm not
moving.
He's gonna be mad.
He already is.
Hello?
Yes. Yes, good evening.
Um... I need
a bit of assistance.
I'm getting
a little tired.
I think I'll
let you drive.
Let's find
an ATM machine.
What's your pin?
Take a guess.
19?
1919. You got it.
You don't have
any money.
Try it again.
Same thing.
Well, it must be
the machine.
What happened?
My credit card
was declined, too.
I just gave him
our last $25 for gas.
You're kidding, right?
No, Ella, I'm not.
Great. We have no money
to get across country...
But that poor family
has $500 to buy trees
That they're never
gonna plant!
Stop it, Ella.
We're in a bit of
a pickle, that's all.
That's it.
I'm calling my dad.
Save your breath.
I'll call him.
Mom?
Just because you
don't agree with me,
You don't have to
sabotage our trip.
Tell me where you are,
And I'll reactivate
your credit cards.
You can't reactive it.
I have to
reactivate it.
In person.
You know that.
What was I
supposed to do?
Honor the dying wish
of your father.
Mom, I want you to turn
around and come back home.
To what home?
I'm in good company.
I'm not coming back.
Are you at least taking
your medication?
If you're so concerned
about me,
How come you're
leaving me penniless?
Tell me where you are, and
I'll wire you some money.
Oh, nice try.
Ok, may I please
speak with Ella?
She's not here.
Where is she?
She's out getting
a gigantic tattoo
Of a dragon
on her back.
Ella wouldn't do that.
Yes, she would.
And I'm getting a skull
and crossbones on my butt.
Mom, are you
coming home or not?
Not. It's lucky for you
we're flesh and blood...
Because what you've done
is almost unforgivable.
Why did you do that?!
Because I'm
a grown woman
Who can take care
of herself.
Now, get driving,
Ella bear.
We have to make
some money.
No, my dad is right.
You need surgery,
And we don't have any
money. We have to go back.
Eliot, I made you
a promise.
And nothing is going to stand
in the way of my keeping it.
You can count on me.
Ella, I'm making it to Annie's
point, with or without you.
If you want to come
with me,
You're gonna have to
play by my rules.
Could you
please pick up?
This is important.
Pick up for one sec.
Brenda, something's come
up. I have to leave town.
I'm gonna have both
cell phones with me.
But don't use
the personal number
Unless you
absolutely have to,
And transfer all
my business calls
To the business
number. Got it?
Honey, I've been here
for eight years.
I think I've got it.
Where are you going?
I'm not quite sure. But I need
you to do me another favor.
Could you find out
where the last place
That credit card
number was used?
And you've got to call
Backis and Weller
And tell them I can't
make today's appointment.
You can tell them
yourself.
I was trying to tell you...
they're here early.
I've been here
a lot longer than I planned,
But I want those contracts
on my desk by 4:00.
Mr. Backis.
Mr. Weller,
I am terribly sorry.
But we're gonna have to
postpone today's meeting.
Something's come up,
and I have to leave town.
Richard, let me
level with you.
Eason's line of credit
Is what we call in the
banking industry "guarded".
Well, I'll take that
into consideration.
Now, if you'd like to
make a new appointment,
You can do that
with my assistant.
And, again, my apologies
for the inconvenience.
Uh, Mr. Eason? Are you
still going out of town?
Absolutely.
You gonna stay mad at me
the entire trip?
I can go longer than
you can without talking.
We'll start right now.
No one is talking.
Over 1,000 Miles to go,
And no one is talking.
Oh, we're smiling now.
But no one is talking.
You couldn't go five
minutes without talking.
And you can't
stay mad at me.
I'm sorry I raised
my voice back there, but...
This trip is
more important to me
Than I can truly
put into words.
Do you understand?
I'm getting hungry.
Park the car.
I have an idea.
Ok, what's
your big idea?
I'll take your arm,
And you tell them I'm a
blind caricature artist.
What?! No way.
That's crazy.
You want
to eat tonight?
Ok,
watch your step.
Hi. Lovely day
for a fair, isn't it?
Oh, it sure is, sir.
Oh. She doesn't
see too well.
Or... Really at all.
Excuse me.
Could I...
Oh.
From the contours
of your face,
I'd say you were Irish.
That's right.
How do you do that?
Ok, grandma.
There's no entrance fee
for this,
But we do request
a $5 donation, please.
Oh, we're not here
to shop.
I'm an artist.
She does caricatures.
But... But...
She can't see.
But that's
the beauty of it.
Here you are, son.
Thanks.
That's amazing.
Oh, you don't know
the half of it.
Thank you.
How many is that?
Who's next?
Ella bear...
That voice of yours
is really something.
That was the first time
I sang for anybody
Besides my mom.
Have you written
any songs for her?
Actually, that's what
I'm working on right now.
Does it help?
With what?
Does it help you...
You know...
When you're feeling
down about her?
I don't know.
You know what I do
When I'm especially blue
about grandpa?
I talk to him.
Yeah, I...
I heard you
in the car.
I'm not embarrassed. I...
Sometimes I talk
about normal stuff...
My day...
My feelings.
Does it help?
Sometimes.
It makes me feel like
he's still with me.
Yes,
I'm aware of the fact
That they're not
technically missing.
I have their
itinerary with me.
Sir, they're
adults, not kids.
Yes, I'm aware of the fact that
they're too old to be runaways.
Well, we don't
have the authority...
What do you
suggest we do?
Wait until they break
the law or something?
Let's hope it doesn't
come to that.
Ok, thank you.
Thank you very much.
Same to you. Good-bye.
Hey, Brenda.
What did you find out?
The card was last used
in Missouri. Missouri?!
Did Mr. Nucci call
to harass me, too?
Would you do me a favor and
get him on the line, please?
Don't forget to eat.
Thank you. What?
I said,
don't forget to eat.
Yes. Yes, I'll remember
to eat something.
Ok.
Ok.
Ok. 'Cause you
know what, sweetheart?
You are like a toothpick.
I mean, personally,
I like a man with a little
more meat on his bones.
Did you know,
After all those years
of painting,
Today was the first time I've
ever actually sold something?
Really?
I think we've done
quite a bit of living
In the last
couple of days.
How are you feeling?
I'm feeling
the same as I was
When you asked me
ten minutes ago.
That's why
I have these.
How did you know
grandpa was the one?
He touched my hand.
And?
Ella bear...
When your grandpa touched
my hand for the first time,
I had to
actually look down
To see if it was
still there.
I knew right then.
That's it?
That sounds like something
out of a cheesy romance novel.
I know it sounds silly.
Someday you'll know
what I mean.
So, tell me
about your brother.
How did we
get to that?
I don't know.
I mean...
These are all the things
that I don't know about you.
There isn't
much to tell.
Ok, I sang
at that truck stop,
And I showed you
my notebook.
Now it's time for you to do
something that you don't want to do.
Well...
Doug is almost 20 years
younger than I am,
And he lives
in California.
Why don't you
talk to him?
It's a long story.
I wanted to teach him
a lesson years ago.
I think he got the lesson,
but he never forgave me.
Have you ever been
skinny-dipping?
No.
I keep thinking about
that pool
By that big country club
when we were driving in here.
Why don't we chalk up another
first while we're on the road?
What do you say?
No.
Why not?
Because you're sick,
and, no offense,
But the idea of
skinny-dipping with my grandma
Doesn't sound like
a whole lot of fun.
It actually sounds
kind of creepy.
Well, I'm going
skinny-dipping.
Are you sure
you want to do this?
You only live once.
I don't know if I can
make it over the fence.
How did you
get over there?
The gate's open.
That works.
How's the temperature?
Who cares?
Oh, it's beautiful
in here!
You didn't
finish your story.
Tell me about
your brother.
Doug was living with us
After my folks passed.
He didn't deal with
their passing all that well.
He was good kid,
but for a while there,
He always seemed
to find trouble.
One night he got
caught shoplifting,
And they arrested him.
I thought he should spend
one night in jail
Before we got him out.
Like I said,
to teach him a lesson.
When we finally
got him out,
He was awfully
mad at me.
We got into
a huge fight,
Said things I'm sure we both
regretted our whole lives.
Then he packed
his bags,
Moved to California,
And I never heard
from him again.
What happened
to him?
Like I said,
he was a good kid.
He learned his lesson
and just... Lived his life.
Why don't we stop
and see him?
Doug?
I wouldn't know
what to say.
Oh, poo!
Yes, officer.
We are always having
trespassers.
This is not a public pool,
you understand.
I understand, sir.
I'll take care of it.
I thank you.
Mm-hmm.
Uh, well, um...
That gentleman there...
that's Mr. Langelos.
Does he live
at the country club?
Uh, heh. Ma'am...
This isn't a country club.
It's his private
residence.
Oh, my.
My partner here will
drive your car behind me,
Save you a $100
impound fee.
Thank you.
Sure.
Just, uh,
come this way.
Thank you.
Ok.
Turn the other way.
One day we'll
look back on this
As our
"night in jail".
Boy, Doug would
find this a real hoot.
His goodie-goodie
sister in the can.
Grandma,
this isn't funny!
God, don't you take
anything seriously?
Oh, we'll be
out of here in no time.
We don't have money
for the fine.
We're gonna have to
call dad.
I'm sure he'll be
joining us
Sooner rather
than later.
Uh, you sure there isn't
anyone you'd like to call?
Uh, in a moment, son.
Right now...
Would you mind
Pointing me to that
bathroom over there?
Uh... Well,
miss Eason, um...
Oh, call me Annie.
Annie. That's really just
for police personnel only.
Now, you wouldn't want your
mother using that, would you?
Uh, no, ma'am.
Could you find it
in your heart to...
Treat me like your
mother? Just this time?
Uh...
What the heck.
This way.
Where's your partner?
Oh, he's out
on a call.
Would you be a dear...
And make sure
it's clean?
I have a thing
about bathrooms.
Sure.
Yep, looks ok
to me, Annie.
Annie?
Let's go.
Annie?
No!
Ella Mildred Eason...
It's now or never.
Cross another one
off life's to-do list.
We're a regular
Thelma and Louise.
We're gonna
go to jail.
We've already
been to jail.
No, I mean,
real jail,
Where there's gangs
and murderers.
Don't be silly.
We're gonna get
caught, grandma.
Relax, Ella bear.
Relax?
How am I supposed
to relax?
You guilted me into going
on this trip with you.
You... you lied
and told me
You need some kind
of heart surgery.
And then you broke us
out of jail.
You don't need me on
this trip with you.
You just need
a chauffeur.
That's not true.
Oh, yeah?
Well, that's how
I see it.
You're going through
a very hard time,
And it's hard to see the
light at the end of the tunnel.
But trust me. Trust
yourself. It will be there.
And as far as needing
a chauffeur,
I don't need a chauffeur.
I need a best friend.
And she happens to be
sitting right here next to me.
Oh, come here.
Now, tell me
that didn't feel good.
That didn't feel good.
Ok, it felt
kind of good.
Oh...
Just make that
the last thing
We cross
off the list.
Deal.
Ohh.
I drove just about
all night.
Sweetheart,
where are you?
Some small town in Kansas,
near Colorado.
I'm gonna send you
this email right now.
I hope it helps.
Brenda, I know.
I know that the project
is in jeopardy.
You're just gonna have to stall
them as best you can, all right?
Ok, I'm gonna send this to you. Fine.
Ok, bye.
Ok, bye.
Excuse me.
Um...
Where are we?
Arizona.
About 40 Miles
from Nevada.
Thank you.
You're welcome.
What?
What you just did...
it's called flirting.
No, it isn't.
"Thank you."
Stop it.
You should be proud
of yourself.
You're a good flirt.
Oh. Only two left.
Ok, we need to
get you some more pills
And some good rest.
I'll have all the rest
I need before long.
You know what?
I'm gonna call my dad.
The least he can do
is wire us some money.
Ella...
I'm going to call him.
What are you
looking for?
My phone.
Maybe it's in the car.
I left it on that
policeman's desk.
Oh, boy.
Hello?
Who's this?
Uh, this is the police in
rand junction. Who is this?
This is Richard Eason.
Is everything all right?
You wouldn't know Annie
and Ella Eason, would you?
Yes, that's my mother
and my daughter.
Are they all ri...
what have they done?
Why don't I tell you
where I'm at,
And we can talk
in person?
You're not from here,
are you?
It's the clothes,
isn't it?
Your car's Illinois
license plates.
I saw you drive up.
How long are you
and your mom in town for?
Oh, that's
my grandmother.
We're just...
Passing through.
I'm sorry. I didn't
even introduce myself.
I'm Scott tardy.
Oh, uh...
Ella Eason.
Very nice to
meet you, Ella.
You, too.
If, uh...
You're staying in town,
And if you and your grandmother
want something different to do,
It's open-Mike night tonight.
It's pretty popular.
Ok, I'll ask her.
Ask me what?
I thought maybe we
could come back later
For some coffee.
Oh, I'm sorry, Scott.
This is my grandmother
Annie.
I told Ella
it's open-Mike night,
And we get some
pretty good singers.
Ella has the voice of an Angel. Grandma.
You didn't tell me
you could sing.
I'm not surprised.
Would you sing
for us tonight?
No...
she'd love to.
Great. I'll see you
tonight.
What did you
do that for?
You have to sing
sometime.
He is so cute. Heh.
And you thought you didn't
know how to flirt.
Come on.
Listen, I can't
apologize enough for this.
It's all right.
It turns out the charges
were dropped.
They were?
Yeah.
It seems that,
uh, Mr. Langelos
Was a little taken
with your mother.
Ah, she was skinny-dipping, you know.
I mean, of course
I was, uh...
I was fixing to let them
go before the escape.
Now, if this were
to get out,
I would be the butt of
all the jokes in town.
So, uh... I'd just as
soon keep this between us.
Well, I'd
appreciate that, too.
Thanks very much.
Have a safe trip.
Ok.
She really was?
Skinny-dipping?
Buck naked.
Brenda, did you
get the email I sent?
Yes.
And you passed
the schedule and figures
On to Backis, Weller
and Nucci?
Yep.
Ok, then.
I don't know what else
I can do for them.
Mm-hmm.
If they call again,
Tell them I've sent
everything they need
To keep the project
going forward.
Ok.
Now I have
to track down
My delinquent
mother and daughter.
Don't forget to eat.
Talk to you later.
%% Now, it's just
so hard to feel %%
%% to open up again %%
%% when it all seems
so real... %%
Good evening, ladies.
You both look
lovely tonight.
Thank you.
Thank you.
I saved you a table,
just in case.
The coffee's on me.
Ella, you go on
in 20 minutes.
I can't wait
to hear you sing.
Me, either.
Somebody has
a crush on you.
Yeah, well, he won't after
I vomit all over his stage.
You're gonna be great.
%% Just fade away %%
%% and begin again %%
First of all, I'd like
to thank you all
For coming down here
tonight.
We have a treat for you.
Do you remember
what I told you
About how I talk
to grandpa?
Now, close your eyes.
Go sing this
for your mama.
Please welcome... Ella.
I'm sorry.
This is for my mom...
Who I haven't seen
in a really long time.
%% When you find
that someone special %%
%% give him love,
make him your own %%
%% stop your sense
and you will find %%
%% that your heart
has found its home %%
%% you'll be in my dreams
forever... %%
Could I please
borrow your phone?
Sure thing.
%% And the things
you taught me %%
%% are the gifts %%
%% that I'll treasure... %%
Richard?
Mom?
Listen.
Hello?
%% Your memories
are my Angel's wings... %%
Who is this?
Hello? Mom?
Hello?
%% You blessed me
with the will to be %%
%% flying on my own %%
%% your love has
led me so beyond %%
%% where any eagle's flown %%
%% and until I see you
once again %%
%% I'll be flying
on my own %%
All that time, and...
Well, you just
blew me away.
Oh, your mother
would be so proud.
That was tremendous.
Oh! My purse.
I'll be right back.
Thank you.
Can I ask
where you're going?
A very
important place
On the California
coast.
What's it called?
I don't know
the real name, but...
My grandpa named it
Annie's point
After my grandma.
Is your grandfather
gonna be there?
I guess you could
say that.
It was
an absolute pleasure
Meeting you,
Ella Eason.
You, too.
I'd wish you luck...
But, uh, I don't think
you're gonna need it.
With what?
Just promise you'll
send me a copy
Of your first CD.
Heh. I promise.
That was true beauty
in there.
Thank you.
Oh, no. Thank you.
I couldn't have
done it without you.
Oh.
I only wish
mom was here.
Well, who knows?
Maybe she was.
I do know
your father was.
What are you
talking about?
I finally figured out
how to use a cell phone.
He heard every note.
Ha!
We've been in Nevada
for about an hour.
There's not much to it.
There will be.
What do you mean?
You'll see.
Wow!
This is amazing!
It sure is.
It's changed quite a bit
Since your grandpa
and I were here.
We'll pull in here.
Are you sure?
Positive.
%% I'm so happy to be here %%
%% when I look around,
it's clear %%
%% yes, it's perfectly... %%
Ok, I'll call dad.
Not yet.
I feel lucky.
You want to gamble?
I'd rather do that than
give in to your father.
Gramm, we don't
have any money,
And I think we're
probably wanted fugitives,
And you're almost
out of medication.
What do you
suggest we do?
No.
Grandpa's father
gave it to him
To bring him luck when
he needed it most.
But it's your
lucky coin.
Exactly.
No, that's crazy.
It's the least crazy
thing I can think of.
Here it is, down here.
No more bets.
We have to go again.
Lucky 19.
%% What have you
got to lose? %%
%% Take a little Chance,
you won't be sorry... %%
No more bets.
%% Oh, what have you
got to lose? %%
%% I'm on fire %%
%% 'cause you lit my fuse %%
%% if you want what I got %%
%% take your best shot %%
%% what have you got to lose? %%
%% Ohh %%
13. Black's on.
%% The moment's now %%
%% don't make me wait %%
Oh, 25.
Sorry. 23.
%% And it feels so right %%
%% it's meant to be %%
%% it's not about lovin' %%
%% it's chemistry %%
%% Do I have to
spell it out? %%
%% Baby, read my lips %%
Place your bets.
%% What have you
got to lose? %%
Ok,
this is it, grandma.
As they say...
Here goes nothing.
No more bets.
%% Ohh, what have you
got to lose? %%
19!
Aah! Ha ha ha!
Ha ha ha!
Ohh, gosh! Aah!
Ohh! Ohh!
Ohh! Ohh! Ohh!
Ok, I am gonna go
get the coin back
From the pawn shop.
I'm still feeling lucky.
Ok.
Oh, no!
Are you ok, ma'am?
Oh, fine.
Just a little
excited.
Um, last name Gordon.
First name Douglas.
Hold for that number.
805-555-0083.
Mom?
Hi, Richard.
Are you all right?
We're fine. We may be in
a bit of trouble, though.
Don't worry about it.
I've already been to that
little police station in Kansas.
It's been taken care of.
Thank you.
Where are you?
Where are you?
I'm getting closer.
How are you feeling?
Oh, I'm fine.
I just got some more
of my medication.
You didn't sell
my house, did you?
Nope. Not yet.
Why don't you tell me
where you are
So I can wire you
some money, just in case?
We don't need money.
We're not far
from Annie's point.
I assume you know
where that is.
Mom...
see you there.
Mom?
I know that you have this
trip perfectly planned out,
But we're going
on a little detour.
The last time
that happened,
Your father took me to
that retirement village.
Where are we going?
There's someone that
I think you should see.
That's a nice house.
It sure is.
It's your brother's house.
I can't.
I'm sure he'll be
happy to see you.
Did you ever think that
you might owe it to him?
Don't be nervous.
Oh, that's easy
for you to say.
May I help you?
Annie?
Hi, Dougie.
This is
my granddaughter.
I guess she'd be
your great-niece Ella.
Nice to meet you.
It's really nice
to meet you, too.
Ohh.
Uh...
Who's this, dad?
Well, this is
your aunt Annie,
And this is your
cousin Ella.
Annie, Ella...
This is
my daughter Lucy.
Thanks for dinner.
Oh, you're welcome.
It wasn't much.
Lucy's beautiful.
She gets that
from her mother.
I'm sorry she's
out of town.
She would've loved
to meet you.
I'm sorry, too.
Eliot?
He fought so hard...
For so long.
He went peacefully.
He was a good man.
Very good man.
Uh, our son Richard
Took over Eliot's
construction company.
Oh, good for him.
That's good.
Annie... Heh.
I picked up the phone
To call you
a thousand times.
But, as each year
went by,
It just got more
and more difficult
To know
what to say.
Don't blame yourself.
I have a phone, too.
I never should've tried
to teach you that lesson.
And for that I've never
forgiven myself.
I'd be lying
if I told you
The price wasn't high
in not seeing you
And Eliot and Richard.
But, you know, it
made me who I am today.
I work with kids,
Trying to help them find
direction in their lives,
And I never would've been able
to do that without you, Annie.
I never doubted you'd make
a success of yourself, Doug.
I miss you.
Miss you, too.
So, what happened
with the cop?
Nothing.
My dad met with him,
And he dropped
all the charges.
He was so embarrassed
That an older woman locked
him in his own cell.
He's not gonna tell
anybody anything.
So, how long have you
and aunt Annie been driving?
About three days.
Who would think it'd be
fun to drive across country
With their grandma?
I gotta tell you, when she
and I first got in the car...
I would've rather
been anywhere else.
I mean, I never thought
that my grandma
Could understand
anything
That was going on
in my world.
And?
She taught me more
in a few days
Than I ever would've
learned in school.
You're in college?
I was.
Well, what happened?
I left.
So, you just quit?
Well, my music never would've
had a Chance if I didn't.
What do you
want to be?
A writer.
That's awesome.
It would be awesome to
actually have a book published.
A wise woman
once told me
That the world is open
to all of our dreams.
And what if they're
just dreams?
Well, you won't know
until you try.
You gotta do
what makes you happy.
Here's some
water, Annie.
Oh.
Thank you.
Those are
some big pills.
What are those for?
I'm just getting old.
Are you all right?
Oh, I'm fine.
It's been
a long Journey.
Nothing a good
night's sleep
And comfortable bed
won't fix. Ha ha!
Oh, it's really good
to see you, Doug.
Same here.
Now, you're sure
you're all right?
Oh, I'm fine.
'Cause I'm right next door
if you need me.
Fine.
Good night, Annie.
You need
anything else?
Oh, we're fine,
thank you.
Well...
Bye, Annie.
So, let's not let another
30 years go by, ok?
Ok. I'll talk
to you soon.
Wait, Annie.
I just...
I wish so much
That I could've talked
to Eliot one last time.
I'm so sorry I didn't.
But mostly,
I'm sorry that...
I wasn't there for you.
So, even if we
haven't spoken,
You were always
there with me.
Thank you.
Hey.
Happy 50th anniversary.
Thank you.
Have a nice trip.
Come back, ok?
Thank you.
I'm proud of you, Doug.
Eliot would be, too.
Grandma, I think we need to get
you out of this car for a while.
No.
But you look really
uncomfortable.
Ella bear,
in less than two hours,
I'll have more energy than
I'll know what to do with.
Trust me.
Hey.
It's more beautiful
than I remember.
It hasn't changed
one bit.
It's as though we were
here yesterday.
Oh, your grandfather
looked so handsome.
I'm ready to take
grandpa home now.
Brenda?
Yes?
You got the three
wise men on the phone?
Uh-huh.
Great.
Put 'em through.
Ok.
Gentlemen.
Hello, Richard.
Are we all together?
Yes, we're all here.
Good.
Listen, we'd like to
talk to you about...
Let me start out
by saying that,
While I can certainly
appreciate your desire
To see these projects
through to completion,
What I do not appreciate
is being talked to
And treated
like an amateur.
My father put all three of you
on the map, and your companies,
Without ever letting you
down, and I won't, either.
But right now
my family needs me,
And I refuse to
let them down.
So, I will contact you
when I get back to town,
And when that happens,
I will fulfill
all of my obligations,
As I expect you
to fulfill all of yours.
We understand each other?
Yes, we do.
Excellent.
Have a nice day.
Are you sure
this is it?
I'm sure. Heh!
Is it how
you remembered?
It's beautiful.
Well, now I can see what
the fuss was all about.
Hey.
Oh!
Hi, daddy.
Hi, honey.
Thank you, Richard.
I'm sorry you thought
you had to chase me
Clear across country.
But coming here was
very important to me.
When I started
this Journey,
I honestly believed I'd
soon be joining your father.
I guess what I'm
trying to say is...
I'm sorry I made life
so difficult.
You were just
looking for support.
No, I was being selfish.
You were the one doing
your best to help.
But now that I'm here,
I feel reborn.
And I owe a lot
of that to Ella.
Ohh.
She's just like
her mother.
Well, and she's also
just like her father.
You're a good dad,
Richard.
Your father would be
proud of you.
Wow.
Yeah. Dad told me
about this.
He wanted you
to have it.
Thanks.
I'll only be a minute.
Oh, Eliot, we made it!
And on time!
Wasn't able to finish
the picture, Eliot.
I was afraid I forgot
what the place looks like.
But it's the same,
isn't it?
Ohh!
Oh, I miss you,
my dear.
You could always
make me laugh.
I heard you sing.
I know.
You were really, really good.
I wish your mom
could've heard you.
I think she did.
I miss her so much.
I've never been able
to let her go.
But that's no excuse for me to
be as hard on you as I've been.
You're just being a dad. Yeah.
And, as your dad,
I need to tell you that...
You don't have to go
back to school.
I just need something
else right now.
But I promise I won't leave
you in the dark anymore.
I'll let you know
what I'm feeling...
Whether you like it or not.
Ok.
Let's go see how
your grandma's doing.
Mom? You ok?
Mom?
Grandma!
Mom!
Are you ok?
Can't an old woman
take a nap without a fuss?
Ohh, for a minute
there, I, uh...
Thought maybe...
You thought what?
Well...
That I came
all this way to die?
Are you kidding me?
Did you take your medication?
What do I tell you every
time you ask? Sorry.
You can be a bit of a pest.
But I know you mean well.
Shall we?
Happy anniversary, my love.
The end