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What are you reading?
The Fur Coat.
Oh, that's a good one.
What are you reading?
Every kid's book in the shop.
No!
You betcha!
It's my job to know.
Have you read Elf For Hire?
It's my favorite.
Let me show you.
Make sure you share with bear here.
Quote of the day,
by my favorite children's author Sally Wells.
"A little magic at the right age
can dare the heart to dream big."
I know I did.
Back home in Puerto Rico with my family,
we have our own Christmas traditions.
Parrandas, it's basically like caroling
but with guitars and tambourines.
Friends and family sneak around at night
and wake a house with joyful singing.
You then share some drinks
and recruit them for the next house.
Sometimes it goes on until sunrise.
Nochebuena, Misa de Gallo, and more.
Do you have traditions of your own?
Well, yeah I'm half-Japanese so everything is sort of blended.
We do a traditional turkey, but with gravy gohan.
So, it's gravy on rice instead of on mashed potatoes.
The secret ingredient is soy sauce.
These illustrations are amazing, Anya.
I want to make this book for my children.
Every Christmas story doesn't happen in the snow.
Yeah.
My only big note would be to strengthen the main character.
We need a story through-line we can follow,
but this could be really special.
Would Kainer & Smith take me on?
I mean, you're the best at kid's books.
Thanks, but this is a pass for us.
I thought you said it's special?
It's a hard sell for my boss.
I'm only an associate editor.
Then why did you meet with me?
Because I love it.
Shannon Snyder's office.
She's in a meeting, can I take a message?
Right.
Perfect. Thank you. Bye-bye.
Executive meeting is in 10,
Sally wants an answer on the book tour,
and I need your RSVP for the Weddings Refined
magazine holiday party.
I said no.
Well, just take another look, it's great!
It's a Christmas book without snow.
We did Christmas in Malibu!
That was for an influencer.
Listen, it sounds lovely,
but it needs broader appeal if it's going to work for us.
Or we can broaden the types of stories we publish.
Niche books are not part of our brand, June.
You know that.
We have the marketing power!
What if it doesn't sell? Huh?
Representation matters most to the people who don't have it.
You want to make it in this industry?
You attach your name to as many bestselling hits as possible.
Not this.
I thought you were ready for your own editor desk?
I am.
Then why are you bringing this to me?
Reject all the other submissions today, please and thanks.
Everyone's hammering my inbox before
they leave for the holidays.
So annoying.
Why does Christmas only have to take place in the snow?
♪RepresentationMatters.
Hi, Kelly. Merry Christmas.
Thanks, but it's a pass for Burt the Birthmark.
It's really good though!
Our minimum is 100,000 social media followers.
But it's a solid no.
Not a pass like it's bad,
but just a pass like it's not the right fit for us.
Not the right fit for us.
Merry Christmas to you, too. But it's great.
Perfect niche market book.
You look good, but what are you dressed as?
What?
It's, like, a theme thing, but I can't tell what it is.
I'm an elf.
Oh!
I am the cutest elf that you have ever laid your eyes on.
Definitely with this headband.
Thank you!
I'm going to get a mojito.
Nice. A Moscow mule?
Thank you so much.
Yeah, I definitely need a drink tonight.
No! How's work?
No, no, and more no's.
Why don't you just leave?
I'm just so close to an editor desk!
If I bounce, I'll have to start all over again
as an associate editor somewhere else.
Sounds like another no.
What? That's not fair!
It's, like, I've put in so much time,
worked through too many holidays to quit now.
Once I'm an editor, I'll have more say
and I'll be way happier.
Will you?
I work at the top children's book publishing house
in the world. Oh, thank you.
Most people would die to be where I am.
Yeah.
I am so sorry, I gotta go!
The Christmas Crawl is starting.
Oh, yes, yes, yes. Okay.
You should come?
I can't. I don't have a costume.
I have an extra Santa hat. Come on!
Thanks, but I gotta be at the office
early tomorrow as usual. So, whomp, whomp.
Well, do me a favor.
You're crazy.
Love you!
- Have fun! - Thank you!
Behave!
Won't!
I want to, but you know how it is.
Thank you. I'll probably just be doing some laundry
and catching up on sleep.
Got a few new shows I'm excited to start!
I'll be right back.
Oh. Mom, I gotta go, but I'll talk to you tomorrow.
I love you. Okay. Bye.
- Hey. - Is that your parents?
Uh, yes, but don't worry. They know I'm working through
the holidays as usual.
You're going home for Christmas.
I am?
You're from Cornerbrook, right?
Word on the street is Sally Wells didn't renew
her exclusive book deal with her publisher
and she's spending the holidays in a rental
outside of Cornerbrook.
I hear there's good skiing there.
Yeah, there is.
We don't want to come on too hard and scare her away,
but you're from there.
So, maybe you could work from home,
bump into her coincidently,
be charming, fun.
Establish a relationship,
then convince her to sign a book deal with us.
Do that, you move up to editor.
Consider it done.
Thank you!
♪ There's an inch or two for snow ♪
♪ We'll heat our bodies 'til they glow ♪
You're here!
I'm here!
Merry Christmas, June-bug.
Merry Christmas. Hi, dad.
We thought you got fired or something.
Nope. Just home for Christmas
like a normal person for once.
Well, we've got the Harris get-together tomorrow,
then there's the cocoa tasting competition,
caroling, mochi new year's prep, and--
Mom, I--
Thanks, but I gotta work while I'm here.
Oh.
I mean, I'll definitely have time for a few things, but--
You just do what you need to do.
I finally might get promoted to editor!
- Wow. - Really?
Why didn't you say sooner?!
I mean, maybe. Maybe. Hopefully.
Soon, just gotta hunker down this next week.
We know how much this means to you.
We're just glad you're here.
We need to celebrate!
No! Not yet!
Don't jinx it, mom!
We're proud of you, June.
♪Sally Wells.
♪Inspiration.
♪Destiny.
Ooh! Matcha cookies?
Ah! They're for Santa.
I'll get you some.
Ho ho ho!
I'll be right there!
Hi. You going to a funeral or something?
What?
You got this whole artsy vibe going.
What are you doing here?
Santa always makes a delivery.
Blake!
- Hey! - Hey!
Here.
Our holiday ale. Hm?
Toasted biscuit, caramel, chocolate,
and roasted malt notes.
We even put it in barrels to give it
a whiskey-kissed oak flavor.
Best enjoyed while sitting by the fire.
You made my day, Blake.
Oh, are we going to see you and your parents tomorrow?
We got an oatmeal stout waiting for you.
Pairs with the cookies, too.
How's New York?
Great.
Almost moving up to editor.
Finally!
What about you?
Still working for dad?
He's still brewmaster,
but I'm helping with the seasonal releases now.
Only a matter of time before I take over.
Hm.
So, you coming to my mom's
cookie decorating get-together tomorrow?
I'm hosting.
Thanks, but I gotta work.
Oh, come on, it's Christmas!
I'm busy. I gotta research.
It's a kid's book, how long does it take to read?
Well, just like Santa, I gotta work through the holidays.
Don't have a choice.
Oh, come on. You got a choice!
and I say choose cookies.
Not everyone's lucky enough to inherit
a thriving business, Blake.
Some people have to make it on their own.
I'll tell you what.
Let's make a bet.
Just like old times.
If I lose,
I'll bring you a platter of cookies.
Mm.
But if you lose, you gotta live a little this year
and accept every Christmas invitation.
Starting with my mom's get-together tomorrow.
You haven't changed.
No, not really.
Okay, well, if I win,
you have to wear an elf costume onesie every day
until Christmas.
Deal?
Mm. I don't lose.
What's the high-stakes contest?
Now, you know you're not getting me an elf costume, right?
We'll see about that.
This one.
I always told my mom I saw deer eat the bells.
- Okay, I'm going first. - No, no, no. I'm going first.
Okay, fine. Go.
June!
Saw that a mile away.
Worked when we were kids.
No, it didn't!
Pretty rusty there, buddy.
Okay, it's been years. You go.
Alright, just like riding a bike.
You ready? Watch this. Boom.
Nope. No, I didn't hear it fall!
- Oh, come on. - It's stuck.
Guess it's a tie, Blakey-boy.
Oh, no, no, no. Best out of three?
No!
We don't do ties.
Well, I already won.
So, I guess I get to go back inside now
and get to work.
- No, no, no. Come on. - Merry Christmas, Blake!
- Don't do that. - Better luck next year!
I wish June would say yes to Christmas for once.
At least until Christmas Day.
She deserves it.
June Hi, Shannon.
There's only one coffee shop in town.
I bet my money she'll be there.
Sally's with her kid so I imagine she'll be heading
into town to do some Christmas activities as well.
There's a hot cocoa tasting event
and also a snowman building contest.
Oh, that's perfect, you love all that silly stuff.
We've compiled some background info on her as well
that we're sending you.
Okay. Will look it over.
Oh, I still need you to do my handwritten
end of year thank you's.
And send me the prelim book tour schedule on Becky.
ASAP.
On it.
Namaste.
Good morning!
Good morning.
Are you joining us today?
Oh, mom, I got loads of work to do.
I'm sorry.
What about just dropping by the Christmas party real quick?
Thanks, but the answer has to be yes!
Okay, we can walk over there.
No, no, no. There's nothing more I'd like to do!
I can't wait!
I'll see you downstairs in 30!
I can't wait?
Hey, welcome! Come on in.
Merry Christmas.
Same to you, I'll take your jacket.
- Oh, thank you. - You look fantastic.
- Thank you. - Hey, Ted.
Good to see you, Blake. How are you?
Good, good.
You can take my jacket, too, sir. Thank you.
So, why'd you decide to come?
Just wanted to take joy in proving you wrong.
Oh. Well, prove away then.
Can I get you a drink?
Cocoa or cider would be nice.
Alright, you got it.
You're here? What a wonderful surprise!
Good to see you, June.
It is finally nice to have her back for Christmas this year.
She's a children's book editor!
Associate editor, Mom. Hi.
She actually showed up?
Good to see you!
- Good to see you, too, Henry. - Merry Christmas.
Merry Christmas.
So, it's been, what, five years?
No, has it?
Since you two were in college.
Well, I'm back.
Well, good.
Your parents really miss you during the holidays.
Sounds like you got a lot of catching up to do.
I guess so.
Both?!
Yeah, I couldn't decide.
Thank you.
Okay, mom, you gotta take this, 'cause Blake gave me two.
Definitely that one.
- Okay. - Thank you.
- Cheers. - Cheers, my love.
And time.
Clearly it is a tie!
Okay. No. Not even close!
What? Let's get another judge then.
No, come on, Blake. You lost.
Okay, just live with it.
This was fun.
I needed a break.
But now, yeah. I gotta go.
Hey, since you proved me wrong with one invitation,
you want to do it again?
Blake, I got this big opportunity--
I'm doing this Christmas charity event at the brewery
and I am desperate for volunteer help.
Thanks, but I'd love to!
No really. Yes!
Wait, I mean yes!
You are just full of surprises today.
You don't understand, I can't waste time...
...not helping!
So, then would you mind helping me with
Christmas decorations, too?
You'd be a lifesaver, I mean, everyone else is busy.
Yes!
Great. Hey, everyone.
June has graciously offered to help me
with the Harris Brewery Christmas Wish event!
- Oh. - Nice.
I-- I-- I gotta go! I--
One second. Okay.
Okay.
Thank you?
So, does this mean you're going to be at
the snowman building, too?
Yes!
Cocoa competition?
Of course, yes.
Ah, Christmas Eve countdown?
Absolutely! Okay!
I thought she was busy?
Am I going crazy?
Hi there.
Fetch?
Oh.
Thanks, but--
Who wants to play fetch with Santa?!
♪ Toy land, toy land ♪
♪ Little girl and boy land ♪
Oh, good boy!
♪ You are ever happy there ♪
- No! Where are you going? - ♪ Childhood's joy land ♪
♪ Mystic merry toyland ♪
There you go. Okay.
Ernie's gonna love her.
They've been out there for like a half an hour.
You should bring her a hot drink.
She doesn't even have her coat.
Well, come on. I taught you better than that.
I--
Oh, yeah! I know!
♪ Mystical merry joy land ♪
♪ Once you pass its borders ♪
♪ You can never return again ♪
Looks like you're having fun.
He's gonna want to go home with you.
I can't say no!
I know. I have a hard time saying no as well. He's so cute.
I need to lie down!
Oh! Oh! Jeeze!
Come on, wow. Come on. Let's go inside.
- Okay. - Come on, let's go.
I couldn't say no to snowman building.
or the cocoa competition.
It's like some spirit took over and made me say yes.
I know what's wrong with you.
You're addicted to the Christmas spirit!
Guilty!
I'm just trying to cheer you up.
You're fine, dear.
Maybe just need a little more rest or something.
Are you going to join us for the holiday pinecone decoupage?
Yes, let's do it!
See? Totally normal.
No, okay. Look, Dad.
I couldn't say no to helping Blake.
I didn't want to say yes. I wanted to say no.
Um, do you want to give me a hand in the kitchen?
I do. I really do.
Thank you.
Listen, don't say yes and then leave me stranded.
That's not funny, Okay?
Look. It wasn't some joke.
Okay, I was forced!
No one's forcing you or guilting you into anything.
You can say no.
No, I literally can't.
Look, I'm still going to help you, okay?
I promise.
Hey, no worries.
Just do your own thing like you always do.
I'm sorry. Just text me the details, okay?
Yeah.
Hi, Shannon!
Where's my book tour schedule?
I'm working on it as we speak!
So, what's your angle for Sally?
Show her around?
Give her local tips.
Pedestrian, but sure.
Oh, make me a dinner reservation tonight at Sombrillo's.
9:00 pm. For two.
On it.
Listen, June. I know I've been a little tough on you lately,
but it's just because I want you to meet your potential.
Hey June, you coming to our chestnut roast?
Yes!
Excuse me?
Yes, I want to meet my potential!
You dropping by our tent at the cocoa competition?
I can't believe you didn't ask me earlier!
Who are you talking to?
My mom is having people over.
What about our gift-wrap-a-thon?
Well, if you can close Sally, then you're ready.
For sure!
You've gotta sign her first.
Yes, right.
Uh, listen, Shannon, I gotta go.
The stove's on fire.
Oh. That's weird.
I'm not losing it. This is completely normal.
You get only one, okay?
Pick one for dad, too.
More samples?
Okay.
Ah, Christmas delights.
Uh, thanks, but yes!
Can I recommend the candy cane cookie sandwiches?
I can't resist!
Peppermint bark?
Gotta have it!
Mini gingerbread houses?
Yes.
Uh, Buche de Noel.
Yes!
Christmas fudge snowballs?
Yes!
We have a Christmas sampler--
All of it!
You're gonna need another bag.
A bigger one.
I like desserts apparently.
Me, too.
Are you going to the cocoa tasting competition tomorrow?
Oh? Where is that?
We're not from around here.
It's in the town square.
I've been going ever since I was a kid.
I want to go!
Oh, well. Yeah, sure.
Thanks for telling us!
Yeah.
You're not Sally Wells by any chance?
I don't usually get recognized
by anyone taller than four feet.
I'm a huge fan.
Elf For Hire was my favorite picture book as a kid.
It inspired me to get into publishing.
Wow.
Yeah, it made me feel seen,
and I figured if a kid's book did that for me,
that's something special I'd like to be part of.
You made my day.
- - Thank you.
I didn't get your name?
June. It's so nice to meet you.
So, what do you do in publishing?
I work as an associate editor at Kainer & Smith.
Oh. Top place.
Well, there's also sledding in the park,
snowman building, and other fun Christmas activities,
if you'd like some more local tips?
Yeah, we've been skiing, but I think we're looking
for some other things to do.
Great. There's this short hike I'd recommend,
and the carolers meet in the square nightly.
Thank you.
You bought half the shop.
Yes, I did. I could show you around.
Uh, well, thank you, June.
See you around?
I'll see you around!
Oh. Here you go.
Thank you.
Okay, this is getting really weird.
- June? - Hey.
Got a lot of stuff there.
I thought you were working?
Yeah, I was, but what are you doing?
Ah, ran out of chocolate Stevia bits.
Hey, if you're not working, I could use some help
later today putting up Christmas decorations?
Thanks, but yes!
Great!
You want to meet me at the town square,
say around 3:00?
- Got it. - Awesome!
So, is it possible to do an exorcism of
the Christmas spirit?
Why would anyone want to do that?
It's getting in the way of work.
Would you like your fortune read?
No.
I thought you said you can't say no.
I said no.
I said no?
Christmas tea to heal your aura?
Oh--
Yes!
So, I can't say no to tea?
Thank you.
Would you like some quartz Christmas ornaments as well?
Yes!
I can't say no to ornaments?
I can't say no to anything Christmas
Well, what am I supposed to do!?
Say yes.
There you are! You're late!
Hi.
Hey. Can I talk to you for a sec?
Thank you. Excuse me.
I can't say no to Christmas things.
Great, I think it's good you get out.
Take your mind off of work for once.
No, for real, I can't decline an invitation.
It's like I have some sort of condition where I say yes now.
Well, that's a positive outlook for life.
No, Mom, that's not what I'm saying.
I don't understand.
Look, if it's Christmas related in any which way,
it's like I'm forced to say yes even though I don't want to.
Like-- It's like I'm a puppet or something.
A puppet?
Listen, you don't have to make up some
silly excuse for me, okay?
- No, it's not an excuse, mom. - It's okay, it's okay!
I get it! Do your own thing.
I'll tell them you're busy.
Blake, the mash tun needs cleaning.
Alright, no problem.
Hey, have you had a chance to look at those web design quotes?
Why can't we just update the current site?
I mean, we want our customers to interact with us online.
Helps build brand loyalty.
Maybe later.
Hold on a sec.
Why don't you want to do this?
It makes sense.
We'll talk about it later.
I'll see you at home.
You seem preoccupied.
Yeah, sorry, just thinking about my Dad, you know?
Hm.
He's old school. Purist.
But we need more than brewing to survive.
What do you mean?
This new brewery just opened up in Wallace.
They got live events, music.
They're packed every night.
You want to sit?
Yeah, yeah. Let's do that.
Anyway, the place is always packed.
It's only a matter of time before they open up a location
down here and we're the boring brewery in town.
So, what's the plan?
I want to turn us into, like, a family-friendly experience.
Food and beverage tours, brewing classes.
Mm. Yeah, that sounds awesome.
Exactly.
But for some reason, my dad doesn't trust me.
You know, this charity holiday experience,
was my sneaky way to do a sip-eat-learn event to
show him that we could actually pull it off.
So, what do you have planned for the eat portion?
Hold on a sec.
Why are you always talking about food?
Don't mention it.
No, but we're, uh, talking to the vendors tonight,
going over the pairings for our desserts and stuff.
We could actually use a second opinion.
Oh, Blake, I can't...
...wait!
You are really proving me wrong today!
So, when you do actually become an editor,
who's the first person you'll sign to a book deal?
Well, hopefully Sally Wells.
I'm sorry, I don't know who that is.
Bestselling children's books?
Silly Shoe series?
I'm not five.
Well, not physically.
- Chill. -
No, but seriously.
She wrote her first book when she was 23, Elf For Hire.
It's all about finding your purpose, your passion.
That book is the reason I got into publishing.
I didn't know that.
You know, it's really cool that
you were able to follow your passion.
Yeah.
Thanks, Dad.
You're welcome.
Despite my associate editor title,
my boss still makes me do assistant stuff
like write her own handwritten holiday cards.
Yeah. You're putting in your time.
Well, that's one way to put it.
You know, when you said you wanted to get into publishing,
we thought it was just a phase,
but when we saw how hard you worked,
you convinced me.
Of course I was going to work hard, dad.
You burst in here every morning, banging pots to wake me up,
telling me to get up and achieve!
Well, if this is what you want, then you just, you keep going.
Your mom misses you.
You know, maybe we could make more of an effort to
come and visit you in the city more often.
Yeah. I'd like that.
Okay.
Mm.
Still the best.
Got marshmallows going. Oh, this is nice.
Hey, hey, hey. This is not a race.
We're late!
I mean, I just want to make sure we get to see all the stations.
It's open for two hours.
Hey, why don't we go check this out? Come on.
- Hey! - Hey, how you doing?
Hey, guys. How are you?
Hi, Phil.
This in the historic style of the Viennese royal court.
Chocolate, rose blossom water,
cinnamon, vanilla.
Ooh, that sounds nice.
I hate it. It's terrible.
Soo good, Phil.
Here, here.
Oh, thank you so much.
- Thank you so much. - Enjoy.
You've outdone yourself. This is good.
Um. Hey, I'll be back in a minute.
Yeah, okay.
Hey!
And the dessert fiend returns!
Yup. That's me.
Thanks so much for telling us about this.
The cocoa is phenomenal!
Yeah, of course.
So, any other local tips?
Yes, so many.
Royal Cafe has a gingerbread French toast casserole that's,
mwah, amazing. You guys need to try.
Oh, and did you know we have two ornament shops here?
I didn't.
Okay, it's pretty cool. I can show you around town.
Oh, we don't want to interrupt your--
No! Not at all!
It's the least I could do for my children's author idol.
Well, only if it's no trouble.
We're about done here.
June!
These churros have coconut!
Oh, hi. Sorry.
That's okay. This is my friend, Blake.
Nice to meet you.
Listen, the next station has a lavender Christmas cocoa.
You want to go?
- Yes, let's go! - Alright.
Oh, that's a great one!
We-- we don't want to keep you.
Where are the ornament shops?
If you walk down 1st Street, you'll see it on your right.
Are you going to the snowman contest later?
We have other plans.
Okay, well, there's also ice sculptures
in the park tomorrow. I could show you?
I thought your mom's mochi making party was tomorrow?
Mochi?
Yeah, my mom always preps mochi in advance
for Japanese New Years to make it into a Christmas gathering.
I like mochi ice cream.
Oh, well, you guys should come!
We wouldn't want to impose.
No, seriously. She always invites a bunch of people.
Couple random cousins are coming and we always do it around
Christmas so more people can help!
I could text you the details?
That'd be nice.
Um, here's my... If you want to give me your number,
I could text you.
Yes, of course. Great.
- Okay. Great. - Okay. Awesome.
- See you tomorrow. - I'll see you then.
- Bye. - Take care.
- Bye. - You, too.
What's going on?
That was Sally Wells.
Did you know she'd be here?
Yeah, my boss wanted me to try and convince her to sign
a book deal with us.
Just trying to be nice to her. Thank you.
Show her around a little bit, you know?
Well, that explains a lot.
What do you mean?
Why you're here.
I always wish I could come home, Blake!
My work just doesn't let me.
Don't worry, I still am going to help you.
Maybe we can help each other?
What do you want?
I'm sorry. I just don't know what angle you're playing here.
Angle?
Yeah! It just reminded me of that time
you got me to bite into a rotten egg when I was sick.
That was not funny.
I mean, that was a long time ago.
Right?
Yeah, maybe not. I'm sorry, I'm sorry.
But look, in all seriousness,
I will help you woo Sally, you gotta help me,
I mean, like, seriously help me, though.
With the event, the details. Everything.
Only if you beat me at some Christmas games.
You gotta be worthy.
Why is everything a competition?
Because it's you.
Hey!
It's the holidays. Live a little!
Are you gonna enjoy this beautiful day with me or not?
Sip some cocoa, take in all this joy around us,
and play some Christmas games?
Yes.
I said yes?
And it wasn't forced?
Is something wrong?
Nothing.
Good.
Thank you.
Let's go.
Okay, now go.
That's okay, this way! This way! No, no, no!
To your left. Yeah, yeah. This way. Come towards my voice.
A little more. So close.
Yeah, yeah. Now get the nose.
♪ Santa's bringing the lights ♪
Oh, this is too easy.
- Oh, yeah? - Come on!
♪ Christmas, Christmas is here to stay ♪
Yeah, right there.
Okay, come over here.
Okay, now take it off.
- Um... - Too easy.
Too easy, I see.
♪ Santa's bringing the toys ♪
♪ For every girl and boy ♪
Okay, one more, one more!
Let's get a couple more in there.
Oh, I'm going to fall!
I got it. I got it.
Okay, for real?
- For real. 20 bucks. - Okay.
Here you go. Ready?
Told you.
You're very dedicated to your work.
I'm passionate about publishing.
Not so much my work.
What do you mean?
I do what I have to, career-wise.
Always hungry for work.
Say yes to every opportunity, but...
You know, I wish I could work on more meaningful
children's books.
Hm.
What's a meaningful book to you?
Something that would speak to a child on another level.
Make them feel seen. Loved.
There's this one author that wrote this beautiful
Puerto Rican Christmas picture book.
A different version of the snow-covered holiday cliché.
That book deserves to be seen, but because it doesn't appeal
to the broadest audience possible,
we don't make it.
So, why don't you go somewhere else?
I've put in too much time.
Quitting isn't losing.
I am not going to quit.
I'm not saying that.
I'm just saying following your heart isn't quitting.
Are you speaking from experience?
I had a bit of a quarter life crisis when everyone like you
left town and I was still working for my dad.
Ran off to San Diego for a year.
Left him stranded at the brewery.
And you know admitting that my heart belonged here
was the hardest part.
And the deeper I got into proving a point,
just felt like giving up.
But it wasn't.
Well, my job at Kainer & Smith will start me off at the top.
And after I put in a couple more years I'll be able to
get a job at any New York publishing firm of my choice.
So, watch this.
- Bam! -
- Mm-mm-mm-mm-mm. - That was lucky.
That was lucky,
So, am I worthy of your help now?
Well, there's still broom hockey, so.
Ow! Okay, fine.
Where you going?
Broom hockey.
You still gotta win my respect.
I was on my way here and I thought of some ideas.
So, I was thinking, maybe you could use some
cute little tags and write flavor notes on them,
and attach them to each glass.
Yeah, and we could have, like, long plates with hors d'oeuvres
that line up with each step in the flight.
Yes! I'm excited and I'm not even a beer person.
Oh, trust me, you will be.
That a threat?
An invitation.
Uh-huh.
In fact...
Most people do not appreciate
the complexity that beer offers.
You see, wine has grapes
and aging to experiment with,
but a brewer can play with barley for sweetness,
hops for bitterness, spices, nuts.
How am I doing?
- Continue. - Okay.
When you're picking the perfect pairing
there are three things you gotta keep in mind.
The first is contrast,
in an opposites attract kind of way.
A dish with a dominant flavor should be paired with a beer
that can shine through.
A dry, bitter stout
can stand up to dark chocolate.
Together?
Mm-hm.
Or even oysters,
cutting through that briny sweetness.
Mm-hm.
Yeah, I guess opposites do work.
Alright.
The next is complementary.
Perfect in what they share.
A sip will evoke flavors of the past.
A spicy pale ale with
a spicy Vietnamese dish.
Okay.
Yeah, okay.
And last is a palate cleanser.
So that you can fall in love with each taste again.
It's a bit poetic.
Is that a bad thing?
I didn't know you were so passionate about this.
I just want people to love it as much as I do.
Uh, sorry.
So, what about the table decor?
- I mean, if you wouldn't mind-- - I could do it if work--
- I can do it. - Okay.
It's fine.
You know, it's funny.
I wished you'd say yes to Christmas,
but I never imagined you'd be here helping me.
You wished what?
You said you wished I'd say yes?
I mean, I was hoping you'd come to my mom's party,
'cause everybody misses you.
No, but you said wish.
Yes, I did.
I mean, I was by myself and I was just hoping,
like, out loud you know, when we were throwing the bells,
that you'd say yes to Christmas stuff for once.
Say yes?
Just little a break until Christmas.
What's the big deal?
That should be your life slogan.
Sorry, what?
Your wish came true, Blake.
- Come on. - Gosh.
Okay, go.
Okay, okay.
Here.
Un-wish it.
This is ridiculous.
No, I literally can't say no
to anything Christmas related! For real.
Like a positive outlook thing?
Physically can't say no.
I'm confused.
If someone asks me to do anything Christmas related,
it's as if I'm not in control,
like a reflex happens and I say "Yes" or "Let's go!"
Like I'm someone's mindless assistant.
That's funny. I'm sorry.
It's a good one.
Okay, ask me to do anything Christmas-y you know I'd hate.
You wanna open up yours Christmas presents early?
Yes, let's do it now!
See, now. No. You're pretending.
This is your idea of some kind of practical joke, right?
Gosh, Blake, that's why I said yes to helping you!
You can't say no for real?
You want to put this Christmas bell up your nose?
Yes!
No, I don't have to actually do it, I just say yes!
Well, that's no fun.
Look, how am I supposed to work if I'm off at
- a gift-wrap-a-thon? - Don't show up.
Well, that's rude. It makes my parents look bad.
My mom already thinks I'm avoiding her!
Trying to come up with excuses to get out
of spending time with them.
I don't want to hurt their feelings.
Just please?
I wish that June could say no to Christmas!
Okay, ask me another question.
Do you want to drink a full carton of eggnog?
Yes!
You didn't mean it!
Well, what can I say?
The first one was from the heart!
So sue me.
Whoa, whoa, whoa, whoa! Okay, okay, okay, okay!
For argument's sake, you are having fun, right?
No, this isn't funny! Apologize!
I'm sorry!
Yeah, I believe that! Just like when you apologized
for duct-taping a harmonica to my mom's car grill?
Look, at least you only have to suffer until Christmas, right?
It's not like people--
Release this holiday spell! That's my Christmas wish!
The deer are going after the bells!
What on Earth are you doing?
Hi, Blake.
Hi.
I-- I'm just checking that everything is secure.
It's good.
Um, was this house built on a reindeer burial ground
or something?
What?
Are you guys planning on helping us
prep for the Christmas mochi party?
Yes.
I said yes.
You owe me.
Stop hitting me.
Should have wished for something bigger, geez.
Our Christmas tradition.
- Hey. - You ready?
For what?
When it gets further along, we gotta flip it between turns.
Sorry. What do you mean by flip it?
You stick your hand in there and you turn it.
It's all about timing and trust.
Which we have neither.
Then you better have fast hands.
Yosha! Yosha! Yosha!
Yosha! Yosha!
Somebody come in here and take over for this old guy.
Come on, get in here.
Here you go.
Okay.
Yosha! Yosha!
Yosha!
Thank you.
- You ready? - Define ready.
You can always just make a wish
you don't accidentally get hit, right?
Let's just do this.
Go, Blake! Go!
Faster! Pull it! Turn it!
Go! Yosha!
Yosha! Yosha!
Watch it. You're going to try and hit me?
Yosha! Yosha!
You're trying to hit me.
No, I'm not.
Do you want your mom to try?
You didn't embarrass yourself.
Oh, stop.
Okay, so, just cut a piece about the size of your palm.
Oh, it's still warm.
So, you do this every year?
Yeah, with everything that needs to be prepped for
Japanese New Year, mom always does this in advance
as one of our Christmas traditions.
Make it into a party since everyone's already around.
Must have been fun as a kid.
Always. Still is.
You know, in my family, we didn't have any unique
traditions like this.
You're lucky to have this.
It was important to me that you had this.
So, will you take over this tradition one day?
I hope so.
Sally, if you store it in the freezer,
it'll last a while.
This was a lot of fun.
Thank you.
Listen, you've been so generous and kind,
inviting us into your home,
but I want to be up-front.
You work for Kainer & Smith so inevitably it'll come up,
but I could never sign a book deal with them.
Nothing to do with you of course.
I just got out of a long-term exclusive book deal
that was toxic.
I want to figure out what's next.
Kainer & Smith is the type of place that puts sales first.
I'm looking for something more.
They would let you do anything.
You're the Sally Wells.
It's not who they are.
You know, Elf For Hire was my first book.
Before publishers and editors told me what to do.
You reminded me what I lost.
The other day when you said it made you feel seen.
Yeah. You're right.
But if there's any way I could help you,
I would love to.
You like working there?
I wish I could work on more Elf For Hire-type books,
but it's the top places that'll open doors for me.
Make sense.
Thank you again. Arigato.
Dou itashimashite!
I've been at the top.
Doesn't mean anything if your heart isn't there.
For me it was just deferring who I wanted to be artistically.
Merry Christmas, June.
Merry Christmas.
Did that go as planned?
Not at all.
Anything I can do to help?
I'm home for Christmas and I'm going to enjoy it.
Every single tradition I've been forced to miss
I'm missing no more.
You want to go see the Christmas lights at the square?
Yes, please!
Yes, I said yes for real.
That wasn't so hard, now was it?
Okay, just go.
I didn't know how much I needed this.
You know, Christmas happens every year?
Yeah, yeah, yeah.
So, what's next on the list?
Well, there are ice sculptures by the gazebo.
Oh, yes. Let's do it!
Need a partner?
Ooh, we definitely didn't do that as kids.
You were making me dizzy so I figured I'd join.
Oh, you know what you're doing.
Why weren't you nice to me like this when we were kids?
You don't know?
I mean, you weren't mean to me.
Didn't make me feel like I didn't fit in,
but you were always just annoying.
I was.
You don't know anything about boys, do you?
♪ In our favorite time of day ♪
I had a crush on you.
You did?
Yes. I did.
But clearly you weren't interested.
Then we had different friends in high school,
I dated Marianne Cole.
- Okay, alright. -
Sorry, sorry, sorry. I'm sorry.
And next minute, you know,
you left town.
I didn't know.
You want to get that?
I... Yeah. Yeah.
What's wrong?
Sally wants to send me her book.
She wants my thoughts!
Well, that's awesome, isn't it?
Yeah, it's more than awesome.
Listen, if you gotta work, I can figure things out
on my own, it's not a problem.
No, no.
I'm also going to help you.
But I should probably get home now and get back to work.
This will make up for ignoring my boss all day.
Alright. Let's go.
Okay.
Has Sally Wells lost it?
Why are trees so happy?
The trees are happy because they're going to
be Christmas trees.
I know, but it's morbid!
It just needs a little nurturing, that's all.
We don't know how early on in the process this is.
No, no, no.
This can't be the first book that we publish for her!
I mean, don't say that, tell her it's brilliant,
but it's a tough sell for mass markets.
Just convince her to do something in suburbia with snow.
A saving Christmas theme is universally popular.
Definitely make it a girl protagonist, that's in.
Give her a companion to talk to,
dogs score well, but anything will do.
Sally just needs to find that one magical element
and unique heartfelt twist!
Let's get this on the page already!
With Sally's name attached, the merchandise royalties
will be huge!
I don't think she'll want to do that.
Well, help her help herself.
Hey, can you close this or not?
Yes. Of course.
Update me.
Okay, so, how many fried chicken bites will we need?
For the lager? 80?
If there's extra, people can double-up.
Okay, 80.
How's Sally book coming along?
Uh, my boss wants me to tell her to do something different.
Safer.
Hm. What do you think?
I think it just needs a little editorial help.
Then help.
That's the dream, isn't it?
Help Sally Wells do meaningful books?
So, what would it look like?
- What? - Your dream brewery.
Um...
Long communal tables over there.
Bookshelves with games on them.
A garage door,
you know, that opens up when the weather's good.
Um, fire pits outside.
Maybe even like a garden, you know?
For family lawn games and picnicking.
A nice little, you know, family room over here, with like,
- couches and chairs and stuff. - Oh yeah.
So people can learn how to brew too,
at home, get their hands dirty. You know?
Not that I've been thinking about it a lot.
I even got this logo too.
It's special, Blake.
I hope to see it.
I hope you drop by.
Um...
I, uh, definitely will when I'm in town.
Yeah, um.
'Cause I don't live here, so...
Because we've gotta get this event done first,
because that's the most important thing,
- is the event. - Yeah, yeah, the event.
Should we work on the chalkboard flight menu?
Yes, I love designing signage.
Awesome. Awesome.
I'm gonna get some batteries for these,
and, yeah, I'm gonna see you later.
- Okay. - Okay.
So you're going on a date with this guy from the Santa Crawl?
Erika I'm waiting for him now.
Oh, we spent the entire crawl together,
and then at the end, he took his beard off.
Thank God he was cute.
I'm sorry I missed that night.
- How is being home? - A lot of fun.
Relaxing.
- Relaxing? - Yeah.
I didn't realize how much I needed it.
You slowing down?
Yes, it's been energizing.
Spending time with my parents, doing lots of Christmas stuff.
I forgot how much I miss it.
And I also ran into a childhood friend, Blake.
Oooh! A childhood friend,
now manhood friend.
Stop! It's not like that.
Okay, we're just...
we're just childhood friends.
Friends and friends and friends, that's all.
Okay. Sure. Got it.
My life is back there.
- What life? - You know what I mean?
In fact, let's make some plans.
Okay, what have you done with June?
Text me a date, I'll say yes.
Who are you?
I'm starting to like this June imposter better already.
Hey! - New year, new you.
I think it will be good, seriously.
I'm looking forward to it.
- I've gotta go. - Have fun.
- Merry Christmas, Erika. - Merry Christmas.
Okay, flip it over. Yeah.
And then turn that corner in,
and then right, and then fold it up,
and then fold it in half.
- Hey! - Yeah, now you see it.
Do you see it? Do you see it now?
Oh!
And then turn it, and then...
Hold on, wait, wait, wait.
- Boom! There you go.
Nice.
So what party favors are you putting in the boxes this year?
Well, I guess you'll just have to come.
My mother was always fussy about presentation.
Gifts, party favors, needed to be wrapped up perfectly.
- Otherwise they're hadaka. -
Uh, hadaka?
Oh, naked.
You guys always go all out for Christmas.
That's my side of the family.
My mother was the postwar generation.
After internment, Obaachan and Ojiichan,
my grandparents,
they raised my mother and uncle to embrace
American Christmas traditions with all their heart.
Not in a religious way but in a "togetherness" way.
Family. Joy.
Giving.
Fitting in.
Alongside other traditions,
like Japanese New Year, of course.
I had no idea.
I just always thought you were into
all this silly Christmas stuff.
Oh, I am. It's fun.
But it's also part of your heritage.
I see you haven't lost your touch.
I'd hope not.
Oh, that's nice.
Ten thousand?
I'm blowing up.
Um, Sally shared my posts.
Nice.
Oh, it's one of the vendors.
Excuse me.
Hello?
Let me show you something.
- Is this you? - Yeah.
- Look, so young. - Mm-hm.
Your grandma loved Christmas.
Decorating the tree was a huge event.
Finding a new ornaments each year.
Caroling.
She would drag me out as a kid
no matter how freezing it was.
- But you liked it though? - Oh, I loved it.
Yeah.
♪ Fa-la-la-la-la ♪
This is you.
I used to love to make matcha cookies with you.
I just always wanted to make more so we could eat more.
You'd be like, "Mom, that's not enough!"
- - Yeah.
I thought it was because you were ambitious.
Ambitious eater, I was, yeah.
One of my vendors had to pull out.
Now I'm out two dishes.
I don't know what I'm going to do in one day.
All the restaurants are closed until the 26th.
What are the beers that need a pairing?
The lager and the saison.
Karaage.
Japanese fried chicken, for the lager.
And maybe a miso dressing salad for the saison?
I mean, the fruity flavor of the saison
would contrast with the creamy umami flavor.
Hmm. I guess you were paying attention to my lessons.
Yes, sir.
But I mean, where are we going to find that last minute?
Well, we can make it.
I couldn't ask you guys to do that,
I mean, it's last minute--
Oh, of course you can! Just say yes.
We have a family recipe.
This sounds fun, let's do it.
- Thank you. - You're welcome.
It's been great seeing you participate
in all these holiday activities this year.
Yeah, it's been fun.
Are you happy in New York?
Yeah, why do you ask?
I guess, I just haven't seen you this happy in a long time.
You're always exhausted.
My work is demanding, you know that.
Your dad suggested we make plans
to come out to New York more often.
Start some new traditions.
I realized how much I missed you,
I want that to change.
I love you.
Mom...
Listen, I came home this year because my boss
wanted me to try and sign Sally,
but being home, and saying yes to Christmas
has made me rethink what's important to me.
And I don't know what that means yet, but...
I'm sorry I've missed so much.
I miss you too.
I love you.
Um, I'm so sorry, my boss has called like five times.
It's okay.
- Okay, I'm sorry. - Okay.
Hey, Shannon.
- I'm here. - Here where?
I want to meet with Sally.
- You're in town? - Hmm.
Coffee's actually okay.
No, but I'm already working with Sally.
You're going to blow this,
you would have closed by now. Let's meet her tomorrow at 11.
Can we do a bit earlier or later?
- Why? - I have a commitment.
- What commitment? - A charity event.
A charity event? Over your career?
This is important to me.
Meet me tomorrow at 11 with Sally
or find yourself another editor to work for, okay?
Why can't we just do another time?
Do I have to explain my reasons to you now?
I have a shareholders' call that morning,
and I fly back that afternoon to meet with our editor-in-chief
before he leaves for vacation, so no,
I can't accommodate your little event.
Just do this for me and you will get your promotion.
June?
Okay.
Good.
- - Are you coming caroling?
Yeah. Of course.
♪ Deck the halls with boughs of holly ♪
♪ Fa-la-la-la-la la-la-la-la ♪
♪ 'Tis the season to be jolly ♪
♪ Fa-la-la-la-la la-la-la-la ♪
♪ Don we now our gay apparel ♪
♪ Fa-la-la la-la-la la-la-la ♪
♪ Laaaaaaa ♪
♪ Troll the ancient Yuletide carol ♪
♪ Fa-la-la-la-la la-la-la-la ♪
♪ Fa-la-la-la-la ♪
♪ La-la-la
♪ Laaaaa ♪
- Yeah! -
- Oh, now that's a win. -
Can I talk to you for a second?
Yeah, hold on one second.
Um, so about tomorrow, I--
Yeah, if you can come a little bit earlier,
that would be great.
That's what I wanted to talk to you about, I--
June.
Shannon. Hi. Hey.
Oh, hi, I'm Shannon. June's boss.
Oh.
I'm her boss too, technically.
I'm Blake.
She's helping with my charity event at my brewery.
- Oh, the charity event, huh? - Yeah.
So she's been helping you, not working?
How-- how far do you run, Shannon?
You're welcome to come tomorrow if you'd like,
it's a "gifts for kids" type event.
Um, she's very busy, Blake. We don't want to keep you.
That is very kind of you to invite me,
but unfortunately, we have a meeting tomorrow with Sally.
You all right?
No, something's stuck.
I'll let you guys be, and I'll see you tomorrow at 11.
- Yeah. - Great, bye.
I... won't be able to help.
My mom will cover for me.
That's okay.
Thanks for everything.
I'm sorry. That's what I was about to tell you.
No, no, no. It's okay.
You've gotta do what's best for your career.
Is she going with you to meet Sally?
Yeah.
- Blake, I'm sorry. - I get it.
You've gotta do your thing. I've gotta focus on mine.
- Are you upset? - No, not at all.
Then why are you acting like this?
Say yes to yourself, June.
All this talk about, you know,
"I don't want to miss things anymore."
But nothing's really changed.
- What about you? - What about me?
No matter how amazing this event is going to be tomorrow,
it won't change your dad's mind.
Did you talk to him?
No, but it's obvious, Blake, I know you.
You can't ever own up to your own mess-ups.
Not for sticking this silly wish on me.
I thought things were going well.
Not for going off to San Diego on a whim
and leaving your dad with no help.
You know, I realized,
maybe you did like me when we were kids...
And maybe I was clueless.
But you never once apologized so I didn't know you cared.
I guess we both haven't changed.
I guess not.
Okay.
You work with some reputable people,
but none with our reach and marketing power.
Your books will be talked about on every morning show,
every classroom, every bookstore for generations to come.
What do you think?
- Sally-- - I want her opinion.
Say yes to yourself, not what others think.
What are you doing?
I'm saying yes to myself, Shannon.
Representation matters so much
to the people it affects the most.
I want to say yes to nurturing books
I feel deserve to be seen.
Not just books with broad appeal.
So if you're serious about making another book
like "Elf For Hire," I'd say a big yes.
This author will be the second person I contact
as an independent editor.
You'll be the first.
June, you have no marketing power.
No connections, you're not even an editor yet.
Sally, this is going to be a disaster.
My Representation Matters posts have already
been shared tens of thousands of times.
Marketing doesn't have to be done the old way anymore,
and niche books do well through social media marketing.
You're not seriously considering this.
Let's talk.
You're very fired.
I quit.
Good luck. Both of you.
What did I just do?
You did well.
Looking forward to your call.
We've got a really good pale ale here
that I would love for you to try.
Ooh, very nice.
Go ahead and give that a try. Thank you very much.
Hi, how are you doing here? Thank you so much for coming.
Can I get you a nice pale ale here?
Fantastic.
Feel free to stop by anytime. Thank you.
- Hey, Dad. - Hey.
- How are we doing? - About nine thousand.
That's great.
Hey, can I talk to you for a second?
Yeah, of course. Give us a second.
Listen, I, um,
I want you to know that I did this fundraiser
to show you that we could do more
sip-eat-learn events moving forward.
We've gotta change for the times,
we've gotta think bigger than just making beer.
We need to be a place that enriches the community.
That's where I see our brewery going,
along with your brews, of course.
I abandoned you when I jetted off to San Diego.
I messed up, and I understand why you don't trust me.
- Son, that's not-- - Please, just let me, um...
Let me finish.
I was cocky,
and coasting.
But messing up made me appreciate all of it.
I realized how green I was back then.
That's why I took those apprenticeships,
so that I could be ready one day.
I'm sorry I never properly apologized to you.
I know now that to be in charge means you...
means you need to own up to your mistakes.
I'm sorry, Dad.
I've been waiting a long time to hear that.
I'm proud of you, son.
Well, start exploring ideas.
After all,
you're the future of this family business.
I love you, son.
Thank you.
June Saying yes to Christmas
made me rediscover who I really am.
In publishing, we say no way too often
while we should be looking for reasons to say yes.
This is why I have decided to leave Kainer and Smith
to become an independent editor,
focusing on projects that I care about,
that are more inclusive.
Slowing down and listening to my heart is more important
than blending in to become more successful.
♪SayYes.
♪RepresentationMatters.
Oh, Mom, I--
I owe you big time.
You just need to make it up to Blake.
How was the charity event?
Pretty great, actually.
Your Dad is definitely going to want to go
the next time they host a class.
I caught him already looking up home brewing kits
- on his phone. -
So I didn't get the promotion.
In fact, I quit. I'll be fine.
It's what I want to do.
Are you going to apply for an associate editor position
somewhere else?
I think I'm gonna go out on my own.
Whatever path you choose, we'll always be there for you.
I am so glad you're saying yes to your heart, Junebug.
Thanks, Mom.
Do you want to make some matcha cookies with me for the party?
Yes, I've been waiting for you to ask.
Come on.
♪ Jolly old St. Nicholas ♪
♪ Lean your ear this way ♪
♪ Don't you tell a single soul ♪
♪ What I'm going to say ♪
♪ Christmas Eve is coming soon ♪
♪ Now you dear old man ♪
- June! - Hi.
Christmas tea tomorrow afternoon?
Yeah, I'd love to.
And I'm sure my mom will be there too, as always.
So how long are you in town for?
Hey.
Did you hear June's finally going independent?
She is?
She's staying here into the new year.
She's working remotely for now.
You coming to Japanese New Year?
Blake? Blake?
I said, are you coming to Japanese New Year?
Yes.
Yes, I'll be there.
Oh my goodness, look at the time. Everyone!
Everyone. It's almost midnight.
Oh!
Merry Christmas! Cheers!
Would you like to come to my cross stitch party?
Can you excuse us?
Yes!
- What are you doing? - Saving you,
from accepting every Christmas invitation tomorrow.
Here, take my coat.
Thank you.
I just wanted to ask you a question.
No, listen, I'm sorry for missing your event tonight.
No.
You helped make it happen.
And you were right.
I needed to own up to things.
So I apologized to my Dad,
and now we're going to explore some of my ideas.
Look, I hope you can forgive me for all the countless
dumb things I did to you as kids.
But just know it's because I liked you.
That sounds like a "sorry, not sorry."
It is...
But it isn't.
I really am sorry. Especially for putting
this whole "Christmas yes" thing on you.
Well, I've been saying yes for real now.
I read your post.
Say yes to Christmas?
Yeah, I felt I needed to announce going independent.
"Saying yes to Christmas means rediscovering who I am,
"and what I truly love."
Saying yes to Christmas has made me rethink
what's really important to me.
To my heart.
Ah, it's Christmas Day.
♪ The first Noel ♪
♪ The angels did say ♪
♪ Was to certain ♪
♪ Poor shepherds ♪
♪ In fields as they lay ♪
What does your heart say about me?
My heart says yes.
♪ Noel, Noel ♪
♪ Born is the King ♪
♪ Of Israel... ♪