1
( instrumental christmas music )
( instrumental christmas music )
You can do this.
I know you can.
You are in control.
You own this mountain!
Skis in a V...
It's easy...
Piece of cake.
Okay.
Skis in a V,
turn to slow down.
Skis in a V,
turn to slow down.
Skis in a V,
turn to slow down.
Turn... turn... turn!
Whoa... whoa... whoa!
Piece of cake.
Okay... Look out!
Turn, turn!!!
Oh!!
Oh!!
You okay?
I am so sorry.
You alright?
Are you okay?
Yeah.
Oh...
( Laughter )
You took me out!
Well, um... you were in the way,
sort of.
First day?
Yeah.
Take a lesson?
Technically, no.
I observed.
Well technically,
you need one.
Sure, you are alright?
Aside from a bruised ego,
yeah.
Thanks.
Well hey, don't quit.
It's fun once you get
the hang of it.
Me, quit? Never.
And I'll try and not take out
any more innocent bystanders
on the way down.
There you go.
Even if they are technically
in the way.
( Laughter )
Right.
I can guide you the rest
of the way down the mountain
if you want?
Ooh!
Hey, come on guys!
No, I'm perfectly fine.
I will make it down
this mountain on my own.
Skis in a bigger V.
Bye.
Okay.
Put your weight
on your left leg!
Right turn!
It's okay, I've got this!
( Screaming )
Hey, you made it!
Yeah.
How'd it go?
I stayed upright, mostly.
( Laughter )
You up for another one?
Blackcomb?
Uh... and spend Christmas Eve
in the E.R.?
I don't think so.
You know I could, uh,
show you a few things you'd
probably pick up pretty fast.
No... but thanks.
Um...?
Scott McGuigan.
Olivia Young.
Look, I appreciate your offer
but I don't like asking
for help.
You didn't ask, technically.
I got to go.
Yeah, yeah... Christmas Eve.
Right.
So... Merry Christmas, Scott.
Olivia... Merry Christmas.
That was the best!
You guys were great out there!
Snowboarding like pros.
And Charlie wasn't a total
chicken, for once in his life.
Danielle, it's Christmas Eve.
Maybe you could be nice
to your brother.
What?
I said he wasn't
a total chicken.
Two more kids classes
for tomorrow please.
Mom, our instructor
said we're ready
to take the gondola up
Blackcomb!
Blackcomb? We'll see about that.
At the top there's a lot
of beginner runs.
That's what we always do.
It's super fun!
Mom, this is Hayes.
We're going up
with her tomorrow.
She knows all the best spots.
And are her parents okay
with this?
Yeah, and it's just my dad.
It's fine.
Right Dad?
You making plans
without me again?
( Laughter )
Well, well...
You have fun?
New York Islanders...
really?
One hundred percent.
Who do you like,
The Kings?
Yeah, one hundred percent.
Figures.
Never missed a game
with my dad.
Do you guys, like... know
each other or something?
Yeah, she almost killed me.
What?
He was in the way.
I'm kidding, kidding!
We just had a minor collision
on the slopes.
That's all!
Mom... can we go get
something to eat?
Yes sweetie.
Oh, and can Hayes
come with us?
Our hotel is nearby.
Can we Dad?
We're just down
at the Fairmont.
Come on, it'll be my treat!
Cool.
Follow me.
Well I'm glad she made some
friends, gets her off that iPad.
Yeah, tell me about it.
Did I just say that?
I'm becoming my mom.
Well we can't let
that happen.
We'll make a pact... an
alliance kind of like NATO.
We'll pledge to try
to stay relevant.
So you're not, uh...
Married? No, not any more.
Neither are you.
Dating anyone?
Nope, I'm too busy.
So that means...?
So no, that means I'm not
in a relationship.
Neither am I.
And I'm not interested
in one either.
And there you have it!
I just got to get out of
my ski pants,
I'll be two minutes behind.
Okay, I got them.
Okay.
Oh it's been seven years now
since she's passed away.
I'm sorry.
It's life.
She's the spitting image
of her mother.
So what do you do?
I'm a Sergeant in the army.
Says he's a mechanic,
but that's not true.
But I am good at fixing things,
right?
And he goes away a lot.
But there's always Grandma.
( Laughter )
Yeah, my mom is a saint.
Okay, I'm done.
( Both ) Not yet!
Now you got to write your
Christmas wish on the back.
That's right, 'case at midnight
they light up that
big tree outside.
They call it the wishing tree.
And they send all the wishes
out into the universe.
Do they always come true?
Mine do.
But I use Santa as a back-up
just in case.
( Laughter )
So why Whistler
for Christmas for you guys?
Uh, a certain someone cancelled
last minute.
She means my dad.
He decided to go to Belize
with his new wife.
So a friend of mine offered
us her condo here.
Soften the blow a little.
She keeps saying that
but it's probably because
we haven't spent a Christmas
at home since Dad left.
Danielle, you're exaggerating.
No I'm not.
We always spend Christmas
somewhere else.
Is it because he split two days
before Christmas?
That probably makes this time
of year
a little bit sensitive
for your mom.
You know?
It's okay.
Tis the season to be jolly,
fa la la la la, la la la la.
So... who's going to sing
with me now?
Deck the halls
with boughs of holly...
( Laughter )
Come on you two, let's hear
that Christmas spirit!
Tis the season
to be jolly...
( All singing ) Fa la la
la la, la la la la.
Good!
Just look at all the
beautiful families
here at the Fairmont Chateau
Whistler!
Oh, we're not a...
Christmas is all
about family, isn't it?
Don we now
our gay apparel,
fa la la, la la la la
la la
Daddy, it's time
to talk to Santa.
Yes ma'am.
Right, we're next.
You going to go see Santa?
( Laughter )
Alright, you're up.
Okay.
Let's start at the top.
( Laughter )
You know those
princess baby unicorn dolls?
Okay, I also want
a new dollhouse,
it's kinda broken down...
Hey, sorry if I, um...
crossed the line saying
something
to Danielle back there.
No, it's okay.
She's right.
We haven't had a Christmas
at home in a few years.
How come?
I don't know.
I've been so concerned about...
but they seem fine.
It's me.
It's been a struggle.
I think you've lost your
Christmas mojo!
( Laughter )
Yeah, I guess so.
Maybe Santa can help.
Want to go sit on is lap?
( Laughter )
I really want
gummy headphones
because they're really yummy and
when I'm listening to music
I always get hungry.
Well do you have
a Christmas wish?
I do actually.
A new job.
I've applied for several,
any of which would get
us out of L.A.
Okay, thanks!
But there's one in particular
that I've got my eye one.
So, we'll see.
Good luck.
So Hayes, what'd you
wish for?
Oh no no, no no...
we don't share our
Christmas wish
until after they come true.
I see.
Do they always come true?
( Both in unison ) Of course,
it's Christmas!
Maybe you're just lucky!
Maybe you're making
the wrong wishes.
Yeah, you should talk
to Santa about that.
He's a good listener!
I will do that.
Before it gets dark,
I'm going to take Hayes
up to what she calls
her special place in Whistler.
You and your kids want to go
for a little ride and join us?
Yeah!
Okay.
Here, come on.
( Background singing )
Joy to the World...
the Lord is come
How'd it go?
Good!
Let Earth receive
her King.
Let every heart...
Back at the hotel,
our fa la la la la was...
It was awful!
It was terrible.
It was so bad.
Should we try this again?
What do you think?
Yeah!
Let men their
songs employ.
While fields and floods,
rocks, hills and plains.
Repeat the sounding joy.
Repeat the
sounding joy.
Repeat, repeat,
the sounding joy.
( Children laughing )
Amazing.
Stunning!
It's breathtaking.
I can see why Hayes calls this
her special place.
How did you manage
all of this?
Guy that owns the company's
a former army buddy of mine.
Well thank him for me.
Never did I imagine I was going
to be on the top of a glacier!
Especially one 7,500 feet
above sea level.
Yeah, especially.
Over there...
it's called Black Tusk.
It's a stratovolcano.
Beautiful.
That lava dome at its summit
was formed about
170,000 years ago.
I think this is your
special place.
Yeah, I do.
I love it up here.
Just the size, the scope...
it makes me feel like...
like I'm a part of something
way bigger than myself.
You know?
Just puts it all in perspective.
From up here, I can believe
in anything.
I can see that.
It's not so easy for me.
Why not?
I don't know.
I'm glad you guys came up
with us.
Me too.
It's getting late, we should
maybe head down.
Yeah.
You guys ready?
Oh!
Woah, woah!
You alright?
( Laughter )
( Joy to The World )
Joy to the Earth
The Savior reigns.
Let men their
songs employ.
While fields and floods,
Ricks, hills and plains.
Thank you.
Repeat the sounding joy
Repeat the sounding joy
Repeat the sounding joy
He rules the World
with truth and grace.
And makes the
nations prove
The glories of his
righteousness
And wonders of his Love
And wonders of his Love.
And wonders of his Love.
And now for the grand
Christmas Eve finale!
The wishing tree!
Just wait, first they're going
to turn out all the lights
in the village, and then...
All the lights?
Like... every single one?
I don't need my wish
that bad!
It's okay honey,
it's okay.
Charlie's afraid of the dark.
Here... here, this is for you.
Look.
Look.
So you can always find
some light in the dark.
U.S. Army, ma'am.
So here, you can make a
signal with this light for SOS,
which means help.
You do short-short-short,
long-long-long,
short-short-short.
Cool.
Here, you try.
Now anywhere in the world people
will understand that
and they'll help.
So no more being afraid,
okay?
Okay, go put your...
Go on, Charlie.
Okay, go put your wishes on!
Thank you for that.
Sure.
Okay, come on guys!
Come on, Charlie!
( In unison ) Five, four,
three, two, one!
( Cheering )
Look, all of them go!
All our wishes up
into the universe!
Merry Christmas bub,
I love you.
Merry Christmas you guys,
Merry Christmas!
Merry Christmas.
Merry Christmas!
Merry Christmas!
( Laughter )
Hey.
Did you make a wish?
Kinda...
Good.
And is the mojo back?
I think so.
Merry Christmas
Sergeant McGuigan.
Merry Christmas Olivia Young.
Thanks for sharing
your day with us.
It was wonderful, really.
It was.
I got to get her down...
It's getting late.
( Laughter )
But if you think Christmas Eve
was fun,
wait 'til you see how we do
Christmas day.
Right?
How can I say no
to those faces?
You can't!
Alright, 0900 hours.
That's 9 A.M.
In the hotel lobby.
Here, let me get your number
just in case.
Really?
Well, yeah you... look,
if it ain't broke...
Go ahead.
Here, alright.
There!
9 A.M.
9 A.M.
Alright guys, let's start
to go, but not before...
( Laughter )
Now I'll get him.
You got a call, from base.
Oh!
No, no honey!
Sorry Daddy!
It was an accident.
Do you want to use
my new phone?
No, it's okay.
Captain...
Of course.
Yes sir, on my way.
You've got to go,
like right away?
But it's Christmas!
I know.
But what about Charlie
and Danielle and their mom?
Alright.
Her name's Olivia Young.
Tall, blonde, beautiful.
She'll be here at
9 A.M. with two kids,
a boy and a girl.
Will you, uh, keep an eye
out for her?
Give her that note?
It's really important.
No problem.
Thank you.
Merry Christmas.
Merry Christmas.
Thank you.
Hi.
Come on guys. This is going
to be so much fun.
Hey, wait here a minute okay?
Watch your brother.
May I call up to a
guest room please?
Thank you.
Thank you for calling
the Fairmont Chateau
Whistler Resort.
How may I direct your call?
Scott McGuigan's room,
please.
One moment please.
Oh, it looks like that guest
checked out.
Checked out, when?
About two hours ago.
My name is Olivia Young.
Did... did he leave me
a message?
No, I'm sorry, no message.
Okay, thanks.
( sighs )
Okay guys, change of plans.
Why, where is Hayes?
And her dad?
They had to leave,
some family emergency.
But it's Christmas and we,
the three of us,
we're going to have
an awesome day. Right?
Awesome!
Okay, get your stuff.
Come on, let's go.
It's going to be fun,
come on!
Good morning.
Good morning. Olivia!
Good morning.
Good morning.
Olivia.
Morning, Kim.
Your office, now.
Is there a problem?
When you started last month,
did I mention the Fort Wilcox
toy drive?
It's our outreach program,
your predecessor took care of it
and now it's in your hands.
Oh, okay.
In December, it is
this bank's public face.
It's now your primary focus.
And if Fort Wilcox is happy,
our board is even happier.
This will be your liaison at
Fort Wilcox, Sergeant McGuigan.
I'm telling you the truth!
Oh really.
In this day of cloud computing
and wireless backups
and SIM cards, you actually
expect me to believe
that my phone number got
completely lost in the ether?
I had a flip phone!
You saw it, there's no cloud
backups with those!
I didn't know if you were okay,
or if you just stood me up.
I mean, I thought we were
having a good time in Whistler.
We were having a great time
in Whistler.
And I didn't know if you didn't
get my note
or if you stood me up!
But I still tried to find you.
Oh, you did?
Yeah, do you know how many
Olivia Young's
there are in Los Angeles?
Young is my maiden name.
I go by my ex-husband's last
name Roberts for the house...
the kids.
Oh... of course.
Look, I feel awful that you
think that I flaked on you.
Can we just throw all that out
and start fresh?
When'd you guys move here?
Uh, about a month ago.
My sister Heather lives here.
Oh.
Remember those jobs
I was applying for?
Sure.
This is the one I really wanted.
So your Christmas wish
came true?
Mmm... not all of it.
Well what was the rest of it?
Oh, we don't tell our
Christmas wishes
until after they come true.
Olivia... I'm a soldier.
And when I get orders,
I obey them.
Even on Christmas Day.
Look... we're going to be
working together a lot on this.
That is still an open question.
Well... if you decided that
you want to be a part of it
then you know how
to reach me.
And now you know
how to reach me.
( phone ringing )
This is unbelievable!
I mean... why doesn't this
stuff ever happen to me?
Did he say if he has
a girlfriend?
Did he mention it?
I didn't ask,
he didn't tell.
Ugh...
I'm not interested
in a relationship.
You know what?
Sometimes I just want to
throw something at you!
( Laughter )
I didn't mean to hit you
in the face, I'm sorry.
Yeah right.
Is Danielle still mad at you for
dragging her up here from L.A.?
For putting her in a new school
right before Christmas,
for ruining her entire life?
Yeah.
Teenagers, so dramatic.
There was no one
as dramatic as you.
Don't worry about her,
she'll be fine.
Why can't I?
Because you're too young
to stand in line all night
to buy a video game!
Kelly's mom is letting her go.
Oh, wait!
Kelly's in L.A. and we're here.
How could I forget?
I guess that just proves
that Kelly's mom loves her more.
Or does that mean she loves
her less?
You're not funny.
I'm a little bit funny.
No, you're not.
Danielle? Charlie?
Hayes!
Wow! I thought I'd never
see you again!
This is so random!
Do you like,
live around here?
Yes!
Really?
Didn't your mom tell you?
She saw my dad this morning.
Hi Hayes, nice to see
you honey.
My dad said you never got
his note.
Ahh, the infamous Olivia Young.
Infamous?
I was involved in the great
Olivia Young search.
There was a search?
I'll explain.
I'm Jill McGuigan,
Scott's mother.
Pleasure to meet you.
He felt awful about leaving
Whistler like that.
But orders come when they
come, it's the army life.
Yeah he, he told me today.
That must be difficult.
I've never thought of it
that way.
My father was a soldier,
my husband, my son...
I'm proud of them all.
Of course!
Well I'm glad that he found
you finally.
Anyway... I'm just...
Come on Hayes!
We have to go check out.
Here.
Lovely to meet you.
You as well.
Come on, Hayes.
Bye Hayes!
Okay, okay.
I saw Sergeant McGuigan
at the bank...
he's the liaison for this
outreach program I'm doing.
I didn't tell you guys
because...
Because you hated him.
No, I don't!
Because you're mad at him.
Well, I was...
Well... he tried to find you.
He left you a note.
Doesn't that mean something?
It does, but
it's complicated.
We need bananas,
and apples.
You already have apples.
Well then oranges.
Come on.
Alright.
No, I'm getting bananas!
Punk!
( laughs )
Repeat the sounding joy.
Repeat the sounding joy.
Repeat, repeat,
the sounding joy.
Oh, toy drive.
Oh don't worry, it fills up
as we get closer to Christmas.
With used toys?
Oh no, no!
Newer ones too.
We collect all sorts of toys
from local branches,
enough to fill a warehouse!
The base liaison handles
distribution,
it's quite the undertaking.
Where are you going?
We can do better.
These are the ground rules,
Sergeant McGuigan.
Our relationship remains
strictly professional.
This is going to be more
than merely a toy drive.
So we have 23 days to get
this done
and I intend to make this the
biggest and best event
Fort Wilcox and Coastal National
Bank have ever had.
So, I hope you're up for it.
Are you going to say
anything?
Sounds like a big effort.
Christmas used to mean
something to me,
I want that back.
Do you know why I joined
the army?
To serve your country,
I suppose?
Yes, proudly, but it's
more than that.
I like the feeling of being
a part of something bigger
than myself.
That's why I like the glaciers
so much.
Is that why you're a liaison
on this?
Christmas is important
to these families
and I just want to be able
to help.
So yes, Olivia Young...
also known as Olivia Roberts...
I am up for it.
Okay.
You know, Hayes was so excited
to see your kids at the store.
Mine were too.
Hard to believe they get so
attached after just one day.
Okay, so Christmas trees.
I thought we were going
to the Christmas tree lot.
We are, I just have to do
a few things first.
What exactly do you do here,
in the army?
Part of a unit,
the Army Rangers.
We are... on call, always.
Wherever we go isn't discussed,
nor is what we do.
Olivia...
the army and my unit, my country
and my family...
it's all part of the same mix
for me.
Hello!
Oh, Scott!
When I called you this morning
I said there was no rush!
Hey, you send out an SOS,
I show up... with help.
Help, what?
Becky Fowler, Olivia Young.
Nice to meet you.
You too!
Ooh! This little guy's a kicker!
Aww!
At least Joe will
be home soon.
It's our first.
Olivia's in charge of
the toy drive this year.
It's going to be more
than that.
Awesome!
Well thank you,
this looks great!
And I love the lights outside!
When Joe gets back, he's
going to be so thrilled.
Um... Scott, I baked
some cookies.
I put a dozen in each bag
for the two of you.
Can you go grab them?
Sure.
I heard about you,
last Christmas... Whistler...
He felt really
bad about it all.
You know about that?
Yeah, my brother's
in the same unit.
Got called away just like
that and they didn't come back
until after New Year's.
Wait, so do you really never
know anything
about where they're
going or why?
I've learned to connect
the dots.
Do you remember
those hostages in Syria?
They were rescued and
reunited with their families
at the White House
on New Year's day?
Oh... yeah, I saw it
on the news.
Happy reunion,
everyone in tears.
I mean, I was crying and
I just watched it on TV.
It takes a pretty special team
to go in there
and do something like that.
Are you saying Scott
and your brother...?
It's never discussed,
no public recognition.
No press conferences.
They're the heroes
no one knows about.
Grabbed an extra bag
for your lazy brother
but I swear, he might
not get any of them.
( Laughter )
Hi! Come on in.
Oh, hey Sarah.
Hey!
Is that Joey?
This is, uh, my neighbor
Sarah and her son Joey.
I look after him sometimes
when she teaches yoga.
This is Olivia
with the toy drive!
Hi.
She's helping the kids
get toys this year.
Do you know Santa?
Well...
Can you tell him
I don't want any toys,
I just want my daddy home
for Christmas.
Hey... we're going to Skype
with dad when I get home, okay?
Okay.
Nice to meet you, Olivia.
Bye guys.
When does his father
get back?
We don't know.
Two thirds of the base
is deployed
and the family deployment
center is shut down.
Budget cuts, so...
it's going to be a pretty
tough Christmas for the kids.
I'm going to try to change that.
Sergeant McGuigan... let's give
them a proper Christmas.
Yes ma'am.
Thank you for coming.
Oh, please.
Enjoy those cookies!
Oh don't worry, I will.
Thank you.
Bye.
Tell Paul to stop being so lazy!
I will, trust me!
Bye guys.
Awful!
( Laughter )
Good day!
Your sister's cookies.
Oh, thank you.
Olivia, this is Paul.
Hi.
Olivia is in charge of
the toy drive this year.
Oh great, well if you need
help with anything just ask.
Perfect, thank you!
Hey, did you get my text?
Captain wants you at S.R. Intel
even though you're down.
Copy that.
Alright.
And your sister says
stop being so lazy.
( Laughter )
Nice to meet you.
You too.
So I guess I can't ask how
he broke his leg, can I?
Sure, playing basketball.
Is that the truth?
Paul's an unbelievable soldier.
I'd trust him with my life,
but not on a basketball court.
This is where he broke
his leg, in this gym.
Okay?
What you do, what you don't talk
about, doesn't scare you?
Of course it does, but
I don't let it stop me.
And I do talk about it,
just not out loud.
You know, I have this place
that I go
that helps me sort
some things out.
I'll show you,
maybe you'd like it.
I come here before and
after every mission,
and sometimes in between.
It's been a long time
since I've been in a church.
What if I don't...
really believe anymore?
Well... we all go
for different reasons.
We don't have to go in if it
makes you uncomfortable.
( organ music playing )
( organ music playing )
( organ music playing )
( organ music playing )
( TV News ) In Kabul,
as tensions escalate,
the Secretary of State
will be holding
a press conference tomorrow.
I know where you were today.
What do you mean?
Hayes texted me.
She said you were with
her dad... all day long.
Don't read anything into that.
We're working together.
( chuckles )
What?
I know you like him.
Have some fun!
God, you can be so
boring sometimes.
Don't you have homework
to do?
Has he asked you out?
No! And I'm too busy anyway.
Hey... so, you're not mad at
me anymore for making this move?
No, I'm not mad.
I'd like if we could spend
Christmas at home this year
like a real family.
I like this house.
Are you ever going
to finish unpacking?
( laughs )
( Announcement ) The trees are
moving fast folks,
get them soon
before they sell out.
It's for the soldiers
and their families.
I mean, many can't
afford trees.
We want to surprise them
for Christmas.
Don't you think we owe them that
at least at this time of year?
And in return, I will put up
signage for your business...
in every local branch of
the Coastal National Bank.
And, and have each one of
our tellers say...
Can I say something?
Yes of course, please.
How many families
are we talking here?
As many as you can
help with.
It's a lot of free publicity
and good karma.
Do you know how many people come
into our branches every day?
And just imagine the smiles
on those kids' faces.
Okay, okay, okay!
Let me check my inventory,
see if there's something
I can do.
Thank you!
Here's our contact info.
Great, thanks.
I look forward to your call.
Okay, moving on.
Grocery stores, toy stores,
department stores...
Sergeant, let's go!
Hey, this is a pretty big
operation you've got there
in your head, isn't it?
Operation Christmas,
very good.
I like that!
Hey Mom...
You hear back from them?
Your mom said Hayes needed
help with something
at exactly this time.
Is Hayes always so specific?
Yes.
Yes... But my mom
sounded strange.
Something's going on.
Whoa!
Charlie... what are
you guys up to?
Madam, sir...
please come in.
( Laughter )
Oh...
Oh!
This is amazing.
Welcome to Christmas dinner
in Whistler.
Your coats please.
So much work.
One, two, thank you.
Good evening.
I'll be escorting you
to your table.
I can't believe it.
Look what they've done.
Yeah, it's pretty sweet.
The best spot in Whistler.
( whispers ) Don't be boring.
I won't.
Please... have a seat.
( Laughter )
Okay.
The menu for this evening.
Prepared by our executive chef.
Ta-da!
Oven roasted turkey
with stuffing,
cranberry sauce, mashed
potato... our Christmas special.
And for dessert we have
Christmas Yule log cake,
followed by chocolate dipped
strawberries.
Come on kids, let's get
your coats.
Where you guys going?
They're showing
'It's A Wonderful Life'
at the base auditorium.
You two can help yourselves.
Thanks Mom.
Thank you.
Come on, kids!
And... bon apptit!
This is incredible.
Well... to, um...
Whistler.
Whistler.
Oh... that's better.
Out of the work clothes?
Yes.
Oh...
You okay?
Mmmhmm.
Well we've got to admit
that the kids set us up
pretty brilliantly.
Yeah.
But an Islanders fan
and a Kings fan?
Clearly our kids know
nothing about the real world.
Clearly they know nothing.
( small laugh )
In Whistler I said I wasn't
interested in a relationship.
Oh, I remember.
What about now?
Well, I should tell you that
I have some issues.
Yeah, well... so do I,
we all do.
I guess.
All we really have is the here
and now.
That's true.
Why don't we...
do something that we did not get
a chance to do in Whistler.
What's that?
So? How did it go?
It was wonderful, romantic...
he's so sweet.
It's been a long time
since I've felt so...
Aww, finally!
Is this thing straight?
Sure.
And it felt good.
There's just one question
that I keep asking myself
and I don't want to seem
like I'm diving in too soon
or jumping to conclusions,
but...
do you think that I'm up
for this army life?
It's not for everyone,
you know.
It's tough.
She seems the type of woman
who's up for any
kind of challenge.
Yeah she seems it, but...
Give it a minute.
She wasn't born to this life
the way we were.
Come on, Scott.
If this is meant to be...
You're right.
Thanks Mom.
Mmm!
Playing it safe gets
you nowhere.
I mean look at me.
I wanted to be a singer,
remember?
Oh in high school you were
a star and then in college...
Oh I chickened out,
I played it safe!
That is how this drama queen
ended up
working at a life
insurance company.
Oh, man... but if I could
just sing again...
that would be the dream.
Well then you will sing again.
Sing for me!
Okay.
Uh... Christmas carol?
Perfect!
Okay.
What child is this
who lay to rest?
On Mary's lap is sleeping...
Whom angels greet
with anthem sweet
while shepherds
watch our keeping...
( Laughter )
( applause )
Yay, beautiful!
Thank you.
You have given me a
brilliant idea.
Thank you, Heather.
Yay!
But what is it?
A Christmas revue.
We'll make it a part of
Operation Christmas.
My daughter's school
choir rocks,
my sister has
an amazing voice...
I'm not so bad on the piano.
And I'm really good at telling
people what to do!
( Laughter )
Okay, you're my assistant.
See, there must be dozens
of people on base
who have all sorts of
different talents.
Christmas carols, skits,
dancing... pure holiday joy.
Well?
At least it's something we can
do while we're waiting to see
if these stores or Christmas
trees actually come through.
And, I'd like this show
to be a fundraiser.
A fundraiser?
Yeah.
To raise funds to reopen
the Family Deployment Center.
I'll talk to General Holt,
but... I like it.
Count me in.
Me too.
Thanks guys.
I love it!
I can't imagine General Holt
saying no.
That guy sings in a barbershop
quartet,
he's a great baritone.
So, you're in?
Olivia, I'm married to a
soldier... of course I'm in.
I hope we can pull it off.
What's this I hear you
have getting stores to donate?
Ugh... we have spent the week
begging, imploring, cajoling...
and every single place
has had an excuse.
Yeah, it's the economy
or they already support
this cause, or that cause.
It just feels like we've
hit a wall.
I've never hit a wall that
could stop the army.
My BFF Ann, from college...
her dad owns Kramers.
The department store!
Yes!
Clothes, shoes, toys,
all made right here
in our beautiful state.
Can you call your
friend now?
I sure can.
Hey Sarah!
Ann, you're on speaker phone.
Hey Ann!
Let's talk Operation Christmas.
I'm listening. Let's hear it.
Shopping carts of food,
bags of clothes for every
family on base, toys galore!
Big wow.
Sarah is amazing.
You're amazing!
Oh please, what Sarah did...
She wouldn't have done any
of that if it wasn't for you.
That's the truth,
so can you please take
a compliment?
If I was so amazing,
then Mr. Sweeney from
the Christmas tree lot
would've returned at least one
of my dozen phone messages.
Um... it's probably more
like two dozen.
( Laughter )
I like this... us.
Yeah.
Nobody's around...
Mmm!
Hey guys.
Hey Mom, what's up?
Hey guys!
Hey Scott!
You did it!
Hey, uh, you Sergeant McGuigan?
Yeah.
Mr. Sweeney says
Merry Christmas.
Are you Mrs. Young?
Yes.
Mr. Sweeney says
stop calling!
( Laughter )
He also says you can't
have a tree
without all the trimmings.
Oh... Another three trucks
on the way.
That's great.
Enjoy!
Thank you.
Thank you.
This is fantastic!
Now will you take a compliment?
It's amazing,
you are amazing.
Oh, they are going to be
so happy.
It has been a fantastic day.
You were right...
I was?
Being part of something
bigger than yourself
is an incredible feeling.
My choir director says we're in.
That's fantastic!
Can I be the wise man?
I think there should be
a wise woman in there.
And that's me!
Excuse me...
McGuigan.
Yes, Captain.
Do you sing Mrs. McGuigan?
Oh... no, no... tone deaf.
But I am good at sewing so
I can help with the costumes.
That would be great,
thank you.
This is going to be
so much fun.
Mmmhmmm.
Totally!
I still can't get over
those trees.
Yeah, Merry Christmas!
I know, there's so many!
It's going to be
a great Christmas.
I've never seen anything
like it!
They're endless.
Yes.
You've got to go,
right now?
I'm just on alert.
And you can't say where?
Or why?
Hey... finish eating.
I made your favorite dessert...
lemon meringue pie.
Alright, they're watching
a movie.
This is what I do.
Well we knew this time was
going to come eventually.
Yeah...
This life isn't
for everyone.
No... no it's not.
But what it's taught me
is to live in the moment.
All we really have is
the here and now...
so let's make the most of that.
And tomorrow?
You okay, sweetie?
Yeah... just wondering
if you were okay.
Oh honey, I'm fine.
Come here.
It's just been a long day,
you know?
Yeah.
What are you singing
in choir?
I can sing it if you want.
Yeah, I'd like that.
Angels we have heard
on high,
sweetly singing o'er
the plains.
( Both ) And the mountains
in reply,
echoing the joyous
strains.
Gloria
in excelsis Deo.
Gloria
in excelsis Deo.
Shepherds,
why this jubilee?
Why your joyous
strains prolong?
What the gladsome
tidings be
Which inspire your
heavenly song?
Gloria
in excelsis Deo.
Gloria
in excelsis Deo.
These past few days felt
like a military operation.
Couldn't have done it without
all those guys you enlisted.
We've done everything!
Trees, lights, gifts, food!
And now we have
a show to put on.
You done good.
We did good.
Listen, I'm probably going
to have to leave soon.
So we should maybe celebrate
Christmas early.
Are you saying you're not
going to be back for Christmas?
I'm saying I don't know.
Or you can't say, won't say,
don't say.
No, don't make this harder
than it already is.
I'm just confused, okay?
I don't know how to feel...
and I don't want you to go.
I'll be back.
Um... I should get home.
Yeah.
What about our early Christmas?
I'll talk to the kids.
Ok.
Good day.
Sergeant McGuigan invited...
Mom... his name's Scott.
Okay... well Scott
invited us to...
I know, Hayes already texted us.
Early Christmas
at their place.
Well how do you feel
about that?
Charlie and I think it's cool,
we get to celebrate
Christmas twice.
How do you feel about it?
Mom, seriously...
everything has a risk.
Is he worth it?
I say yes.
And I also say that it's
okay to be scared...
it just means you care.
There's more laundry
in the dryer, please.
And when did you grow up?
Oh, you've done it now.
I have?
( clears throat )
And you can donate at any branch
of the Coastal National Bank
to support the troops and their
families at Fort Wilcox...
give them the best
Christmas ever!
Let's get the family deployment
center back up and running.
Coastal National Bank will
match every dollar donated.
This is Operation Christmas.
So, Coastal National Bank will
match every dollar donated?
You said if you were out to
email the president, so I did.
He liked the idea,
gave me the go ahead...
I CC'd you on all
correspondence.
Oh yes, I read
all the emails.
General Holt called
the president of the bank
to thank him himself.
That's good, right?
The Family Deployment Center
helps soldiers transition
between here and there
and back again,
all while supporting the
families during deployment.
General Holt started
it 15 years ago.
To have it back would mean
everything to him.
So I suppose it's only
a matter of time
before you become
a manager...
well isn't that
why you're doing this?
No, actually...
everyone at Fort Wilcox
is so selfless.
All they do is give...
they deserve a special
Christmas.
Hmm...
You know something?
Okay.
I like you.
This is Scott.
Leave me a message.
That's not how you...
show me how to use chopsticks.
No...
Like that...
Yes, twist it.
And you want to flip it up
in one motion.
Perfect!
Mom, are you okay?
It's time we finished unpacking.
Right now?
I jumped into all this stuff
at Fort Wilcox
and our own house
is still in disarray.
Okay, Olivia...
I need to feel
like this is home.
So tonight, we are going to
finish getting this place ready
for the holidays. Okay?
Yeah.
Okay.
Home for Christmas!
But, I thought we were going
to Sergeant M's for Christmas.
Oh... honey, we are.
Early Christmas, we are.
But he's leaving soon and
we need to say goodbye.
I don't want to say goodbye
to Sergeant M.
Me neither,
but it's his job.
It's what he does.
So... everybody get a box.
Here, let me take this
little guy.
This is not your size...
I have to ask...
how do you do this?
Faith... keeping positive,
other army wives and husbands.
There's strength in numbers,
you know.
I don't think I have it in me
to deal with army life.
You guys are all so much
stronger than me.
But Olivia, I can see that
you love him.
This life is so much different
than I've ever known.
I would drive him crazy.
He's leaving soon.
Rangers don't leave the base
to play games.
You'll be on his mind,
you need to talk to him.
Away in a manger
No crib for a bed...
What time did Scott say
he was going to be here?
Soon, he's just running
a little late.
He'll be here soon.
Can we stop for a second?
I was hoping for something,
I don't know,
a little more upbeat.
How about "The 12 Days
of Christmas"?
Yeah, and then every member
of the choir would have a solo
and that would take the
pressure off me a little bit.
That'd be cool.
Excellent idea, guys.
Would you get them in here
and rehearse it?
You know Mom, you're pretty
good at this.
Don't tell anyone
but I have absolutely no idea
what I'm doing.
My lips are sealed.
Hey Sarah!
Hi!
You're bringing reinforcements.
The cavalry!
May I introduce the fabulous
Fort Wilcox dancers.
Love it.
And these guys are what I call
all-purpose dancers
and singers,
whatever we need.
Fantastic, thank you.
Becky, would you take them
over there
and assign them numbers?
No problem.
Then there's me... I've been
in six musicals, two dramas,
an Agatha Christie mystery
and I've even played Tiny Tim
when I was little.
Sarah, you are extraordinary.
So does extraordinary
get a solo?
You should hear my version
of Santa Baby.
Done!
Yes, thank you!
Okay...
Sorry I'm late.
I can't stay, we have
a re-con briefing.
How's it going here?
Hectic.
Yeah, I see that.
Yeah.
Um... you hear anything?
Yeah, we leave tomorrow.
It'll be okay.
Sorry to interrupt,
I need your help.
It's the dancers.
Go ahead, I have to run anyway.
Okay, um... I need to talk
to you at some point.
And all of a sudden,
there he was.
Ben... my handsome,
wonderful Benjamin.
Home two months early...
surprise!
Of course, I lose it.
With all of that mascara
running down my face,
I looked like a blubbering
raccoon.
The reunions make it
all worthwhile, don't they?
I'm so excited
for my next one.
You'll be having
yours real soon.
Actually, no.
What?
Yeah, um... I just found out
this morning
that Joe and the squadron are
staying on
for a few more months.
Oh Becky, I'm so sorry.
I know he was going to be
here for the birth.
It's okay, I'm just a little
emotional right now, so...
We'll be here.
Thanks.
I know I can always count
on you gals.
Olivia?
Olivia?
You alright?
Oh... yeah.
Sorry, just tired.
So much on my plate.
Operation Christmas,
the bank, kids...
there should be more hours
in the day.
You don't need to pretend,
Olivia.
You're one of us now,
we get it.
You're worried.
Scott's a good man.
He deserves the truth.
I know.
What is it?
Whoa!
It's a Morse code signal light,
come here.
Cool!
It works!
Look.
Thanks Sergeant M.
You're welcome.
Merry Christmas, buddy.
And Hayes, I made something
special for you.
Danielle, phone!
Oh!
It's an ornament!
Look Daddy, it's so pretty!
Thank you.
You're welcome.
Every Christmas Day we get
one that has our name
and the year on it.
Then we put it on the tree.
My parents started it with
me and my sister
so I carried on the tradition
with my kids.
There's something to be said
for tradition.
Yeah.
Come on Hayes,
put it on the tree.
Yeah, get a spot.
Come on!
Oh, that's a good spot.
It's beautiful.
I love you!
I love you too.
Merry early Christmas.
Merry early Christmas.
Well Danielle, you're up!
Merry Christmas.
It's okay, you can open it.
Danielle took it at the glacier
last year.
It's beautiful.
Really, thank you.
You're welcome.
I don't want this to end.
Well neither do I.
No Scott, please...
let me finish.
For our kids...
I don't want
this to end for them.
And they've grown so close,
and...
I want that to continue.
But...
I don't have it in me
to live this army life.
I, I, I... just don't.
What, you're ending this?
Two Christmases cut short,
I mean it just feels like...
it wasn't meant to be.
I completely disagree.
It feels so meant to be.
Do you know what I see
when I look at you?
I see a hero and
an amazing man...
and I need you to know how much
I respect that.
But I know what it feels like
to be left alone
and I can't go back there.
I can't be with someone who
might have to go at any moment,
not knowing where
you are,
if you're okay or not, if...
if you're safe.
I just...
So you're afraid
of the unknown?
Life is full of unknowns.
I could be a school teacher
and get in a car wreck
on the way to work,
it happens.
Scott...
It happened.
To my wife.
And sure, what I do puts me
in harm's way a little more,
I get that.
When I look at you,
do you know what I see?
I see you.
Your kids are happy,
you got a new job
that you love,
new friends, a sense
of community...
a sense of family...
and a guy who's crazy
about you.
You're going to let, what,
fear stop all that?
Olivia, what do you need?
What can I do?
Let us happen.
That fear is real for me.
I can't.
I'm sorry.
Mom, come on,
you gotta see this!
O holy night.
The stars are
brightly shining.
It is the night of the dear
saviors birth.
Long lay the world in
sin and error pining,
'til he appeared
and the soul felt
its worth.
A thrill of hope the weary
soul rejoices,
for yonder breaks a new
and glorious morn.
Fall on your knees,
oh hear the angel voices.
Oh night divine,
oh night when
Christ was born.
Oh night divine.
Oh night,
oh night divine.
( applause )
Thank you, thank you.
And you on the piano,
that was fabulous.
So, are you single?
Okay, well... that is definitely
making it in the show.
Guys, we still need a finale.
Don't I know it?
But every idea I've come up
with so far...
Stinks?
That's one way to put it.
Well, better decide
on something soon.
Yeah.
Aww, thank you so much
for asking me to do that.
It was so fun being
on stage again.
You did so good!
Thank you.
But there is one thing
I have to tell you
and it's very important.
What?
You're an idiot!
Everybody can see
that you like him.
Why can't you?
You love Scott.
You make it sound so simple.
Because it is.
No, it's not.
Yes it is!
No.
I went into the church to say
goodbye and it tore me up.
I don't even know
where he's going.
To keep us safe.
Yeah, by putting himself
in danger.
I don't know how
to live that way.
Okay, well hold on a second!
So you learn.
After your divorce,
you just...
you put up this wall that even I
couldn't deal with and,
and then you wanted to
bring your kids here
and start a whole new chapter.
Well, wake up Olivia!
This is your new chapter.
Do not put up another wall,
please.
Besides, did you ever consider
that maybe you won't lose him?
Just saying...
So, you're going
to deny yourself, and Scott,
and the kids' happiness
based solely on what if's?
On fear?
Putting your entire life
on hold
for something that might
never happen?
I'm sorry, but that
is not my sister.
That... that is a coward.
And I only say that
because I love you.
Just think about it.
A lot of movement tonight.
You should've said something
earlier at rehearsal!
Well, I didn't want
to be a bother.
No, seriously!
Let's get you to bed.
Get you some rest.
Yeah.
Get off your feet.
Yeah... oh!
The baby...
it's time.
Okay, keys...
keys?
But it's not due for another
10 days!
Oh, he doesn't care
about that.
Okay.
Which one is it?
Which one is it?
Oh... this, this one
right here.
This one?
Okay, okay.
Should I call 9-1-1?
Yes, call 9-1-1.
There won't be time,
there won't be time.
Oh, okay!
We're delivering a baby!
Oh... Okay.
Okay.
Get some hot water.
( Baby cries )
Meet our baby boy!
Simon Joseph Fowler.
He's incredible!
He has your nose!
( laughs )
It's too bad, huh.
10 fingers and 10 toes.
He's in perfect health
and so am I.
I am so sorry I wasn't there,
babe.
I'm sorry you had to do this
on your own.
Oh Joe, stop it.
I was fine.
I had Olivia and Sarah
with me.
Hi!
I know.
Can you say hi?
Hi Daddy.
Oh my God.
( Crying )
Oh, there you are!
Come in!
A baby boy, how wonderful.
Yes, it's a miracle.
A Christmas miracle.
Here, let me take your coat.
Oh, thank you.
Come in, come in.
I'm exhausted.
Oh, I bet you are.
Oh...
Um... any word from Scott?
No, no... we never hear.
Come in.
You know, uh... I disagree
that you don't have it in you,
to love a soldier.
You just have to choose
to do it, that's all.
If you're in love,
you choose love.
That's what my husband and I did
and no one ever
took that away.
I just don't know how.
Please... don't run away.
When Scott talks about you,
his whole face lights up.
You should see that.
Jill...
Yes?
Why aren't you afraid
for him right now?
You think I'm not afraid?
I am.
So what do you do?
I try not to fret over things
I can't control, and...
if I lose perspective,
I find a quiet place
and I pray.
Hey.
I thought you might be here.
I love this church.
Yeah.
It's so peaceful.
Hey... I'm an uncle now!
Thanks for what you did
last night.
You're welcome.
It was an experience!
I wish I was there.
With Scott and my unit.
I'm a part of them.
What if something happens
to your unit?
They don't come back?
You can't think like that.
We have a job to do.
You going to be okay?
Yeah.
I finally know what I need,
not just what I want.
I'll be fine.
Charlie?
What are you doing?
Seeing if Sergeant M
gets my message.
I miss him.
I know, honey.
I'm sending him an SOS
but he's not answering.
We don't know where he is.
But he's probably
really far away.
It might have to be a really
strong light
to carry a message that far.
But if he did see it,
he would have to send a message
back home, right?
Because if he didn't, we
wouldn't know he was okay.
If he sees it, he'll send
a message.
I know he will.
A message back home.
Now I know how to end the show.
You're a genius.
A genius!
But, even a genius
needs his sleep.
So... let's get to bed.
Hey...
You know, if you want
to marry him...
Danielle and I,
we're cool with that.
Just saying.
Sweet dreams.
Good night.
You too.
Good night.
Okay, can we get the army
drill team in here?
Yup.
Where are they?
Are we really going to pull
this off?
Olivia, breathe, breathe.
In through the nose,
out through the mouth.
And again, in through
the nose... that's it.
We put together
a great team,
the dance troupe is
going to be fabulous.
This is not even close to
my worst dress rehearsal.
It's a great show.
Okay.
Hey!
Sorry, I'm late.
You can blame my boss.
But I am here now so what
can I do for you?
Talk me off a ledge.
What?
You've got a great show,
don't worry about anything.
No, no, no... not that.
I was an idiot about Scott,
you were right.
Do you think he'll forgive me?
Sure. And I'm always right.
But you know what?
Just relax, let's just put
on a show.
Okay.
Okay.
Oh, General Holt... sir.
Olivia Roberts.
So nice to finally meet you.
Thank you for being here.
I have a favor to ask you.
Would you introduce
the finale?
I'd be honored.
And, uh... we may have a
little surprise for you.
God rest ye merry
gentlemen,
let nothing you dismay.
Remember Christ, our savior
was born on Christmas day.
To save us all
from Satan's power
when we were gone astray.
O tidings of comfort
and joy,
comfort and joy.
O tidings of comfort
and joy,
Bump, bump, bump.
God rest ye
merry gentlemen,
let nothing you dismay.
Remember Christ,
our savior
was born upon this day.
To save us all from
Satan's power
when we were gone astray.
O tidings of comfort
and joy,
comfort and joy.
O tidings of comfort
and joy,
Comfort and joy, joy.
Comfort and Joy, hmmm.
( Cheering )
Thank you.
Thank you all for being here
and making this happen.
The songs and the dancing
have been purely delightful
on this eve before Christmas.
And I would like to send out
a heartfelt army salute
to Ms. Roberts and all the fine
folks at Coastal National Bank
for doing so much to give
these families such a very,
very special Christmas.
( applause )
Can we turn the lights up
on Ms. Roberts?
Where is she?
There she is,
she's in the booth.
Ms. Roberts...
Olivia...
I wanted to save
the best news for last.
The bank just informed me
that your fundraising campaign
was a success and the
Family Deployment Center
will re-open in
the New Year.
( applause )
It's great news!
I owe you my personal debt
of gratitude, thank you.
And now...
we have a little
bit of a special surprise.
Turn the lights on, please.
Ladies and gentlemen,
please welcome the MacArthur
high school choir.
( applause )
Cue light in three.
As well as your brave men
and women serving overseas.
( applause )
Silent night,
holy night.
All is calm,
all is bright.
Round young virgin,
mother and child.
Holy infant, so
tender and mild.
Sleep in heavenly peace.
Sleep in heavenly peace.
Put the projection
screen down.
Silent night,
holy night.
All is calm...
all is bright.
Round young virgin,
mother and child.
Holy infant, so
tender and mild.
Joe!
Sleep in heavenly peace.
Sleep in heavenly peace.
Why, why is the screen
going up?
Wait, it's not supposed
to be going up yet!
He's here.
On behalf of everyone
at Fort Wilcox...
He's here!
And the men and women in
uniform around the world...
Daddy! Daddy!
And the families
who support them,
we wish you the warmest and
merriest of Christmases.
I'm so glad you're home.
Oh, me too.
Look, I know that
this is hard on you.
But I can't go away again
not knowing if you'll be here.
Shhh.
I'll be here.
I belong here, I love you.
I love you.
( Cheering )
My Christmas wish
came true.
( Both ) Mine too!
Joy to the world
the lord is come
Let Earth receive her King.
Merry Christmas everyone!
( applause )