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(upbeat Christmas music)
Voilà.
C'est magnifique. Tu es très beau.
The most dapper snowman in all the land.
What's that you say? Join you?
Don't mind if I do.
One for you and one for me.
Cheers! (excited squeals)
- Chelsey! (Chelsey exhales)
- You found someone to kiss under the mistletoe, Elara?
(giggling)
- Why didn't you call me when you got
- into the train station? - I'm alright.
- Let's get you inside. - Okay. - I got your bag.
- Oh no, no, no. I got this. - Absolutely not.
I'm the big sister.
- Okay. Are you sure you don't wanna spend
a little more time together with your new friend?
- Oh, oh, oh! You're funny.
(Chelsey shivers) I'll make you some hot cocoa.
- Oh, thanks. (Elara chuckles)
How was your trip?
(jazzy Christmas music)
(shivers)
Do I look like a marshmallow?
I have to go to the school to present to the Principal Olsen
and I just really need her to approve my exchange program.
It's been my sole focus for months.
- Well, I mean, at least they're listening
to your ideas at the school.
I can't say the same for the Teaporium.
- Well, Little Miss Chicago, you could always come on home.
You know, my boss told me
to stay in my lane with social media.
I mean, they don't even know how much I could do.
There's so many trends that they're missing out on.
Key words.
- Well, you need to stand up for yourself. Be daring!
Know your worth. Don't let anyone tell you otherwise.
(chuckles)
How's that for a pep talk?
- Yeah. Yeah, that was pretty good.
Oh... Time for a new one of these.
My stocking's got a hole in it.
- These are like, collector items.
These decorations always make me feel closer
to Mom and Dad this time of year.
- Yeah. You even decorated the mantle like she did.
I did.
Is that your pitch?
It is.
The 12 Days of Christmas, an exchange for students
between Ashby Falls and Saint Nuelle, France.
- Aw. I wish that was happening this year.
We could do with some excitement.
- Oh, no. We are nowhere near ready.
It still has to be approved by the school board.
- Wait. The 12 "Dares" of Christmas?
- What? Where? - Ah, sounds merry.
Oh, that is a typo.
Nope! Less dares, more days of learning.
- (snores) - Boring.
It is not going to be boring.
We have tons of fun activities planned.
- Okay, no. You should swing for the fences on this one.
Be daring.
Know your worth. You know,
somebody smarter than me told me that.
Is that other school's teacher still coming to help you
with the official presentation?
Yes, he is.
- Mysterious and romantic, by chance?
Oh, do not get your hopes up.
So far, in e-mails, Mr. Gabriel Beaufoy seems
as stuffy and uptight as they come.
Saint Nuelle's least eligible bachelor.
- And you're not into stuffy or uptight?
- Wow. So happy to have you back.
(laughing)
(rhythmic Christmas music)
- So happy to be back in America.
(grunts)
(dialling)
(distant honking)
Hmm.
(exhales) (phone rings)
Gabriel!
How does it feel to be back in America?
- Oh, I am starkly reminded of why I left.
I'm currently sipping a ridiculously sized coffee
and giving myself the jitters just looking at it.
Anyway, how's the program going?
Is there still just the three students coming?
Just three?
Gabriel, this is the first year of the school exchange.
Mon Dieu. (chuckles)
Have you connected with your Ashby Falls counterpart yet?
- Uh, no. Not yet. I was gonna go to the hotel
and check into my room first.
- Let me know as soon as you have the meeting
with this Miss Smith.
Very exciting.
- Well, if this drink is any indication,
not going exactly to plan. But...
Patience, Gabriel.
No need to run away at the first bit of trouble. Hmm?
- Give it a fair chance. - I'll try.
Okay, à bientôt. Bye.
Okay...
(school bell rings)
- That's my presentation, "The 12 Days of Christmas."
- I can see a lot of hard work went into this, Elara, but...
it's still missing something.
And you know you also have to convince the Board.
- Oh. What is it that you think it's missing?
- I can't put my finger on it. But where's the "you" in it all?
The "me"?
- Yes, a unique and engaging idea.
Think on it.
- I will. I will think so hard on it.
(nervous chuckle)
And uh, the vice principal role?
- Well, your success with this program
will really determine if you're ready to be a vice principal.
Oh. Uh...
But I've been a teacher here my entire adult life.
- And I was a student here. - I know.
It's not that you lack enthusiasm, it's just...
figure out what sets you apart,
and nail the presentation.
- What about um... Mr. Beaufoy? - Yes, I'm meeting
- with him later tonight. - Good.
I think his presence here will help seal the deal.
Be bold, Elara!
Bold, yes.
Bold with bells on.
No, really, I can wear bells if you think that'll help.
Whatever...
Okay.
Right.
(bright music)
(heavy sigh) Hey, Chelsey.
It did not go wel-- (Chelsey clears throat)
What are you doing? Why are you acting weird?
- What's going on? - Nothing. Just sit down.
(clears throat)
So, I've been thinking, this dares thing.
- What dares thing? - From your presentation.
- That was not a thing. - Well, should it be?
I have an idea.
Why am I scared?
- Merry Christmas. - Okay...
Open it up.
The 12 Dares of Christmas.
One a day until Christmas Eve. You said it yourself.
You need to be more daring, and I need to show
my cool ideas in action, so...
"12 Drummers Drumming."
You want me to join a marching band?
- Okay. You have to read the whole thing.
The first dare is, "12 Drummers Drumming:
Give your number to 12 guys at a bar."
- 12?! No way! - Oh, come on!
What better way to be bold than to shake up
the dustiest, dullest part of your life?
Flirting and romance.
It's Christmas.
There's a tingle in the air.
(sighs)
I do love Christmas.
- Yes! Hot girl winter, off to the tavern.
Perfect location to kick things off.
- Wait! Now? I have to meet Gabriel.
- Well, why not get your flirt on at the tavern first?
Plus, they have hot apple cider, and mulled wine,
and those cute little drinks with the umbrella in them.
- I mean, I guess I could tell him to meet us there,
but two hours max.
I have so much work I need to do. - Yeah.
- Which I will do later. - Yes. That's right.
(jazz music)
(tavern hubbub)
- Oop! - Sorry.
Sorry.
(sighs)
(Chelsey exhales)
- So, spot your first drummer yet?
- You know, I usually let my French students
study before a pop quiz.
Okay, practice round.
What's your best pick-up line?
- Okay, um... (clears throat)
Ah!
Can I give you my number
so you can jingle me on the bell later?
Oh. Oh, no, no, no.
No, that is worse than I thought.
- Oh, stop! It'll be fine. I'm funny.
- Okay? You just don't get it. - Okay.
- Besides, I thought the guys were supposed to come to us.
- Ah, you call yourself a modern woman? Here.
(Chelsey hums)
- I got you. - What are you doing?
Oh, nothing.
- Just writing your number. - Oh, boy. Okay.
- Okay? - Yeah.
What are you waiting for?
Oh, Chelsey.
Yeah, good luck.
(upbeat Christmas music)
Hey, there! I'd really like
to get to snow ya! (chuckles)
You must be exhausted
because you've been running through my sleigh all day.
- (Elara chuckles) - Abort! Abort!
(snort laugh)
'Kay...
"The 12 Dares of Christmas."
Okay. First dare:
12 Drummers Drumming. (whistles)
Okay.
- Hey, there, cutie. (chuckles)
Just call me an ornament 'cause I'm hanging on your every word.
You want my number?
Yeah, that's fair. (clears throat)
Well, I have humiliated myself
and tried to give out my number 11 times,
which is 11 times more than in the past decade.
Can we please be done?
I don't see any more eligible bachelors in here.
Okay, you know what?
We'll stay here all night if we have to.
- But Gabriel could be here any minute.
Last but not least...
- (laughs) - That's not happening.
- (whispers): He is gorgeous. - Oh, a dare's a dare.
Get over there.
- Oh... Chelsey. - Mm-hmm.
- Okay. Payback's gonna hurt, okay?
Hey, hi there!
Haven't seen you around before. My name's Elara.
Oh, oopsie-daisies! Dropped somethin'.
Oh, it's my phone number!
That's for you, right there. (nervous chuckle)
I see that.
Smooth.
- I'm sorry. It's my sister. She...
It's a long story.
Basically, I have to give my number out to 12 strangers.
Will you please just take this and put me out of my misery?
Sure.
(dialling)
- Didn't catch your name, by the way.
(phone rings) Ah, Gabriel, finally.
Sorry, I have to take this.
- Hello? - Allô, Elara, ça va?
Oh, you're... you're Gabriel.
(forced laugh)
This is wonderful.
I'll have a drink. Make that a double. Thank you.
(chuckles)
So nice to meet you.
I'm feeling really embarrassed right now. (embarrassed chuckle)
Why didn't you come up and say something to me sooner?
- Parce que j'ai pensé que c'était amusant.
(chuckles)
- My little sister loves to embarrass me.
Hmm.
Where did she go off to?
- Oh, she went up ahead to the creamery.
I told her I would meet her there if you wanna come with.
Sure.
You know, I'm not gonna lie,
I'm feeling a little catfished right now.
- You're American. - Ah, yes.
Portland. Born and raised.
- Ah. - But I went to France
when I was 18 for college and never looked back.
- Huh. With a name like Gabriel Beaufoy,
I'm sure you'd fit right in over there.
- Oh, well, I used to go by Gabe.
But last name's a bit of a long story.
Well, my French grandfather fell in love with an American girl,
chased her across the ocean and landed in Portland.
Not as long of a story as I thought.
(Elara chuckles)
- Gabe, huh? - Mm-hmm.
- Yeah, you seem more like a Gabriel to me.
Mmm.
- So, how are the exchange preparations coming?
They are... coming along.
Just wish we had more enthusiasm from the school board.
They're not excited?
- Well, they will be. That's why you're here.
- Oh, well, I would love to go over the, uh...
the program stuff in the morning.
Just, there's a lot to get done before
the students arrive in Ashby Falls.
- Yeah, but there's still plenty of time for that.
And here we are.
Ashby Falls' finest ice cream and hot cocoa parlour.
Come on.
(sweet music)
- Hey, Chelsey. Hi, Troy. - Hi!
- Chelsey used to work here all through high school.
- Uh, Troy and I were just catching up.
He's so excited to have his favourite ex-employee
back in town, aren't you, Troy?
- (clears throat) - Uh...
yeah, I am. (chuckles)
- Okay. We should go and sit down.
- (Chelsey): Okay, so... - Mm-hmm?
You get the perfect dollop,
Christmas mint chip, then I call it
my Christmas cocoa float.
That's such a unique idea.
Maybe I could, uh...
help you with your social media while I'm in town?
- Wait, for real? - Mm.
Pay me an ice cream and I'm in.
- Uh... yeah, okay! I mean, I can use
all the help I can get.
(chuckles)
So, program.
- Yes, I am eager to hear your thoughts.
- And the families? - Oh.
Nothing's changed on that front. Still the plan.
I'm just really excited to get this up and running.
Ditto. Tickets are booked
and kids will be here before we know it.
The tickets are booked?
Yeah. French are organized.
We can't all just wing it.
- (chuckles) - Okay, Portland.
Uh, some of us American folk are actually very organized
and like to adhere to strict itineraries.
Perfection is protection.
But I do think that booking the tickets this far in advance
is a lot of confidence
for a program that has yet to be greenlit.
(awkward chuckle)
I'm sorry, greenlit?
- Uh, yes, it means approved or signed off on.
Yeah. I know what it means.
What do you mean, the program's not approved?
Well, that's why you're here.
So we can present to the Ashby Schooboard together?
(nervous chuckle) Don't have the funds yet.
No, no.
You e-mailed me and I quote,
"I'm looking forward to having the students here soon."
- You didn't think I meant to do the exchange this year?
How could I not?!
No, no, no, no, c'est une catastrophe.
- Why would you think I meant to do it this year?
- Because you invited me to come along!
For the presentation!
You can't be serious.
The tickets are booked!
- They're non-refundable! - Oh, uh, no, um...
Gabriel! Gabriel!
Um, wait! (door slams)
- Uh... (Elara): Wait! Um...
- Where are you going? - I'm going back
to the hotel, Elara. Because I have to call my students
and tell them that the program's not happening.
You know I'm gonna have to refund those airfares myself, right?
- No, no, I'm sure we can fix this.
Look, if we pull out now,
I don't know that we'll get another chance.
- I don't know. Maybe you'll find another school
that communicates in a way that you understand.
- I'm sorry, are you saying this is somehow my fault?
Look, Saint Nuelle and Ashby Falls were founded
in the same year.
We even share the same flower as our town symbol.
And?
- And I think that should mean something.
There is so much on the line,
you can't just walk away. (Gabriel scoffs)
No, really, please don't walk away.
Do you see that? Do you smell that?
Do you feel that?
No.
It's the Christmas spirit!
A time for wonderful things. Christmas miracles.
- Yeah, well, we're gonna need a lot more than some
manufactured, commercialized holiday feeling
to make this work.
Don't be such a bah humbug.
- I'm not being a... bah anything! I'm...
I'm being realistic. We have students arriving.
- And two smart teachers with one unified goal.
Hear me out. We will go to the board
and explain the mix-up,
but we will present it in a positive way,
as a test run to see how the program could be.
There's still time, right? How many students are coming?
Three.
Only three signed up?
No, right, that's a good thing. Only three.
Okay. We can put them at the inn where you're staying.
- Yes, but the schools are supposed
to be splitting the costs.
I will figure something out.
Just meet me at the school tomorrow.
I will call for an emergency meeting. - I don't know.
No, no. We need to call this thing off.
It's not worth the headache if we're not gonna do it right.
- Please. Please just give me a chance.
We can make sure that the students have the best time.
We got this.
(giggles)
(exhales)
(sighs)
(upbeat music)
(keyboard clacking)
(sighs)
(♪♪)
Ooh! Hot, hot, hot.
- Ah, ah... I so do not got this.
Oh! You'll find a solution.
These are so good, by the way.
You know what you could do to add a little more to these?
Chili powder.
- Chili powder? In a Christmas cookie?
- Well, you make the same Christmas cookie recipe
every year. Change is good.
You always do what you've always done.
You'll always get what you've always got.
I mean, you had fun last night, right?
With the dare?
I mean, I guess.
Up until I found out a group of French students
was about to descend on me,
and I told their teacher everything was gonna be fine.
What do I do?
- What you always do in a crisis:
come up with something.
So Gabriel is super cute.
- He's pretentious and a quitter.
- What? At the bar you said that you--
- And he's such a know-it-all.
He blames me for this whole misunderstanding
when it was actually entirely his fault.
Yeah, that's a bummer, but...
No. No.
I retract my participation in this insane idea of yours.
- Excuse me! This is not insane!
This is a super cute
holiday experience/present.
- Read the room, Chelsey. I can't do this right now.
Well, that's a shame.
The people on social media think it's a great idea.
(soft music)
What is that?
- I started a Swiftygram to track your dares.
Fun, right? (chuckles)
- You just can't help yourself, can you,
with this whole social media thing?
- My reputation-- - Needs a makeover!
Look. Look at this.
We already have 150 likes on that photo.
And look at the comments.
Scroll, 'cause there's a lot.
"This is so inspiring."
"This post made me miss an old friend and reach out."
"Wanna get rich? Buy my--"
No, that, that's a bot.
Chelsey, delete this. Now.
- I'm not gonna post anything embarrassing.
Plus, you're gonna like this next dare.
No.
- Fine. (clears throat)
"11 Pipers Piping:
Go to the school fundraiser and decorate a gingerbread house."
Get it? 'Cause the piping and the icing and little...
- Yes, Chelsey. I get it. I understand.
But I don't have time for this, okay?
I have to go to an emergency meeting with the school board,
so thank you, but no thank you.
- Yeah. - I am not going to be
playing your silly little game.
I don't have time. Not playing.
Sorry, love, you mean it. Wish me luck.
- Bye! - Love you! Good luck!
(door slams)
(sighs)
Thank you all so much
for coming together on such short notice.
Yeah, um, what's so urgent?
- Oh, okay. (nervous chuckle)
Well, there's been a slight change of plans.
Um...
Allow me to introduce you
to our exchange teacher from Saint Nuelle,
Mr. Gabriel Beaufoy.
(applause)
Um...
So, there's been a, um...
tiny little minor, not a big deal at all,
miscommunication between the two of us
and a small group of students from Saint Nuelle
are already set to arrive.
(sighs) (clears throat)
- Yeah, um, the program hasn't been approved yet.
We need to take a vote.
- (nervous chuckle) - I know. Uh...
(angry whispers)
Oh!
(bells rings)
Look, we take full responsibility.
- (Gabriel clears throat) - We?
Yes, we.
I have a full plan
for the program all laid out
in an itinerary laid out in front of you.
Elara, I prepped the board
after your soft pitch yesterday.
This idea needs more work.
The school does not have the resources.
- Right. Well, I am already working on a program
that is even more interactive for the students.
Extra Christmassy.
Something that will give our visitors a sense of Ashby Falls.
Something fun and bold.
(indistinct chatter)
Yeah...
Uh...
(bell rings)
Okay, okay, okay.
Oh...
(quirky music)
All I ask is that you give us a chance.
Consider this a test run of the program.
I will find a way to raise more funds,
and by Christmas, we will have the best itinerary ever.
Gabriel's gonna help me figure that out. Right, Gabriel?
- I can only speak from my own experience,
but when I moved to France,
I didn't know anyone.
But the people that took me in, the friends I made,
they're like family now. And we want the students coming
to have the opportunity to have those same experiences.
(overlapping chatter)
Elara, your eyebrows look like two surprised caterpillars.
- (forced laugh) - Uh...
Yes to what Gabriel said. (nervous chuckle)
To friendship.
(clears throat)
(bell rings) (chuckling)
So, um...
in case you're wondering, that didn't go well.
- Yeah, thank you, Captain Obvious.
- Hey, you're welcome. (Elara sighs)
But at least they heard us out
and voted to give us a chance.
You seem confident.
- Well, Christmas joy hangs in the balance.
(scoffs)
Did you mean what you said in there?
About the people who took you in becoming like family?
Sure. But mainly, I just said
what I needed to, to get the yes.
- (scoffs) - Typical.
Charm them with whatever they wanna hear,
no follow-through.
- Okay, so what's your big plan then?
Because the parents' confidence in you
is as brittle as an old baguette.
- I don't have a plan yet, but I will think of something.
Just need to get more eyeballs on that fundraising link.
- Yeah. - Can't argue with dollars and cents.
Wow, 600?
- What are you doing? - Uh, nothing.
I'm just thinking.
Sometimes doing something with my hands
just allows my brain to relax
and I can put all the pieces together.
Look, come on!
(Elara exhales)
Great.
(gentle Christmas music)
- Okay, I don't see how this is--
Oh, if you're worried that
you've lost your competitive edge after moving to France,
and will therefore build an inferior house to mine,
I completely understand.
- Excuse-moi?
Okay.
Gloves off.
I just don't see how decorating gingerbread solves our problem
of creating an entire exchange program in 11 days.
- I will come up with a plan to win everyone over.
This program is happening no matter what.
- You do know that you can't talk your way
out of every problem, right?
Says you. Here.
(scoffs)
Okay...
Oh, boy.
(♪♪)
Have you never actually made a gingerbread house before?
You look like you're struggling.
- Is that a real question or just a backhanded comment?
I... Just asking. Look.
You need to handle it gently, okay?
You wanna build a strong foundation,
while holding it all together.
- You do your students' homework for 'em too?
Fine. Do it yourself.
- Fine. I will. (Elara sniffs)
(sighs)
(gingerbread house clatters)
Voilà.
C'est fini.
C'est tragique.
- It's avant-garde.
- If you say so. - I do.
- Alright, let's find some board members
- to mingle with. - Okay.
Oh, wait.
We have to put our names on these for the auction.
They sell them off for a few dollars. - Oh, no, no, no.
Let's escape before anybody sees it.
(scoffs)
- Okay... (sighs)
(camera clicks)
(exhales)
- (Gabriel): You coming? - Coming!
You know, it wouldn't hurt
if you turned up the charm just a little bit.
Get people excited.
I saw the parents totally buy into your whole suave,
mysterious expat thing.
- So you think I'm suave and mysterious?
I said the parents.
- Hmm. Attends. (phone rings)
That's my boss, Victor.
Probably looking for an update. Yay.
- Oui, allô? - Elara.
- Rita, hi! - What was that?
You couldn't have warned me?
You should have called me immediately
when you knew there was a problem.
- That was our mistake, I know-- - I don't think
I need to tell you what's riding on this.
Your promotion? It's not looking good.
I've stuck my neck out for you.
- Oh, okay. I know that it's a mess,
but I truly believe that I can pull this off.
The legality of it all.
- So that was my boss, Victor.
- I called Principal Bronson after the meeting.
He's...
upset.
Can you blame him?
I don't know what you two have cooking,
but I hope it doesn't go off in smoke.
Everybody will be watching closely.
Okay, thank you, Rita.
"Love the pic. Uploaded."
(groans) Chelsey!
- 500 likes? - What are you doing?
Ooh! Oh, nothing.
- So this experience isn't going exactly as I planned it.
Same here.
- So why was it that you wanted to start the program in the first place?
- Well, ever since I can remember,
I wanted to spend Christmas in France.
- Hmm. - Just always seems so magical.
And that's what I want for my students.
To have a magical Christmas in France.
I think you're idealizing it.
They just have better pastries.
- So it's not just a Christmas time bah humbuginess,
you're just overall a Debbie Downer?
- Excuse you. I'm from Oregon, where it rains constantly,
yet we maintain a positive and upbeat persona
in spite of challenges and mud.
- Ah. - Yeah.
- Yeah, you don't exactly strike me
as somebody who likes to look on the bright side of things.
More like somebody who likes to look at the problems.
I think I'm just realistic.
Hmm.
So why did you wanna do the exchange?
- I wanted my students to be able to communicate with others.
(scoffs)
Funny then, the miscommunication between us.
- Oh, you mean your miscommunication?
- Debatable. (Elara chuckles)
So, why you?
Why are you the one to set all this up?
- You mean, besides the obvious answer
that I'm the French teacher and you're the French school?
Touché.
- I don't know. I guess I'm always the person
to step up and take charge.
With my family, my sister.
I see. I see.
So if someone can't build their own gingerbread house,
you'll just build it for them?
Wow.
You know, did anybody ever tell you
you're actually supposed to be nice to people
around Christmas time? It's kind of a thing.
- Huh. No. - Hmm.
- Missed that. - Yeah, makes sense.
- If I may, why do you love Christmas so much?
It's not this... moment magique.
- It absolutely is this moment magique.
Christmas is the season of coming together.
It's the perfect time to do the exchange, n'est-ce pas?
No ornaments.
- Oh, it's an Ashby Falls tradition.
We wait until Christmas Eve to decorate the tree.
Everybody brings a homemade ornament.
Ooh! That's actually a perfect thing
we can do with the students when they arrive.
See? The good ideas are already flowing.
Why don't you come by my place tomorrow
- and we can discuss it further? - Hmm. I don't know.
Might be pretty busy looking for problems.
Plus, Debbie the Downer's in town, and...
(Elara chuckles) you know, she keeps me
pretty busy, so...
Tu es impossible.
(scoffs)
(birds chirping)
(doorbell dings)
Um, one second!
(gentle music)
Hm.
(sighs)
Oh, Chelsey.
"10 Lords Leaping:
Start and win a snowball fight."
(chuckles)
(exhales)
Hey, Chelsey,
not doing any more of these dares.
Too much work.
(text message dings) (sighs)
(phone vibrates)
(sighs)
"Check the Swiftygram, we have 400 new followers"?
What?
"This is the funniest example
of open-to-interpretation." (chuckles)
"Anyone have the fundraiser link?
I'd bid on this house for sure."
(curious music)
(chuckles)
(doorbell dings) Uh, coming!
(satisfied sigh) Okay.
- Finally! Took you long enough. - Well, not really my fault.
I could barely find the door with all this...
- Fun? Oh, I know. How awful. - Hmm.
- A bit excessive. (Elara scoffs)
- Someone's extra cranky this morning.
Did you not sleep?
- No, actually. There was a leak in my hotel room.
They moved me to another.
Oh. Must be the old plumbing.
- Well, if there was another accommodation option,
- I would take it. - Well, Ashby Falls is a small town.
Some might even say charming.
- Oh, is that what "some" might say?
- They would. Come in. - Thank you.
(♪♪)
- I can take your coat. - Thank you.
Bienvenue chez moi.
- This is a whole lot of Christmas.
- Well, you can never have too much Christmas.
- You sure? (Elara sighs)
Yes. Come here.
(Elara grunts)
Alright.
I've collected data on the test results
of six graduating classes.
Look. Students who were involved
in our extracurricular language courses
scored a minimum of 10% higher than those who weren't.
- May I? - Uh-huh.
- I'm just not seeing anything in here
about the activities for the students.
You know, nothing about a strategy
to get the town more involved?
- (scoffs) - Well--
No, you know I'm right.
(Elara scoffs)
- You know, even when you are trying to be helpful,
you are so smug.
- I'm leaving. - Wha... what?
Okay, what's happening? (confused chuckle)
- I am storming out. In frustration.
Of your own house?
Hey!
I thought you wanted my help!
Oh...
(scoffs)
- Oh, you have no idea what you just did.
You know I was the captain of the handball team
at the University of Bordeaux, right?
I don't know what that is.
You're about to find out.
Oh!
(Elara screams) (Gabriel laughs)
Rude! (exclaiming)
Just started!
(laughing)
- Oh! No! - Oh, careful!
Ah!
(panting)
(tense sentimental music)
Um...
You okay? (nervous chuckle)
Uh... (panting)
- You know, I haven't had this much fun in a really long time.
Me too.
- But I will say, no teacher from my school would
ever start a snowball fight with a visiting guest.
- Well, uh, normally, I wouldn't either,
but A, you were frustrating me,
and B, I kinda had to.
- I'm sorry, you had to hit me in the face with a snowball?
Let me show you something.
(chuckling)
(footsteps approaching)
(fire crackling)
So, my very sweet but annoying sister
started all of this.
She saw this typo in my presentation
that said "dares" instead of "days"
and thought she'd have some fun with me. - Hmm.
- They're all loosely based on that song,
so it's been impossible to guess which one each dare will be.
- This is why you were walking around at the tavern
asking all those guys if you could give them your number.
- Mm-hmm. - I just thought
you were desperate.
- Wow, and I thought all teachers had hearts.
Glad I learned something new.
So, your sister asks you to do
something new and Christmassy every day?
Yes, and it got me thinking,
what if we planned the activities
around holiday-spirited things?
- I like it. - You do?
Je suis choquée. (both chuckling)
I also had another idea inspired by Chelsey.
(sharp inhale) Look.
Chelsey is a social media whiz.
And so, she put together this Swiftygram account
to follow all of the dares.
And then, people started following and commenting,
asking about donating.
So, I got on this fundraising website
and created a link with a goal of $10,000.
Put it right there in the Swiftygram bio.
Thought it might be a really good way
to raise extra funds for the program.
- (clicks tongue) - That is a really good idea.
- Yeah? - Yeah.
Hm. Thank you.
I'll help.
You will?
Is that so surprising?
Um, yes.
- Wel-- (laughs)
We need your board behind us ASAP,
plus, it's my students coming.
So, what's the next dare?
I actually don't know yet.
She just gives them to me one day at a time.
But if you're serious about helping,
maybe you wanna tag along?
We can meet up and open the dares together
while we figure out what to do with the students.
- Of course. - Mm-hmm.
Sure. Yeah.
Okay.
Oh, I need to take a picture of each dare.
Um, maybe we could get one of the snowballs?
- Oh, you are very trusting of me in this weather,
considering how badly I beat you.
How about a rematch?
Don't ask 'cause I will.
Bring it.
(both laughing)
A little higher.
Move to the right. A little more.
(Elara squeals) (camera clicks)
- Ooh! - Ah!
Now that is a photo.
- Oh, that cannot be the shot. (laughs)
That's terrible! One more, one more, one more.
No.
(laughing)
(giggling)
(upbeat Christmas music)
- Oh, Chelsey, you little sneak.
(grunts)
"Nine Ladies Dancing: Get ready to dance on ice."
Oh, boy. Okay.
(♪♪)
- Here you go. - Thank you.
(groans) And, uh, yeah,
I definitely don't think that we should include ice skating.
- Yeah, I just had no idea you'd be that bad at it.
The skates were faulty.
Right. But I will say,
you do have some good ideas.
Ooh! Like this welcome basket thing.
Genius. Very Christmassy.
- Thank you. Yeah, I thought it would be nice to have
for when the students arrive.
Something to celebrate the season.
I already ordered it,
so they should be arriving in a few days.
You know, I'm very impressed.
Maybe you're not such a cold-hearted,
runaway-at-the-first-sign-of- trouble guy after all.
Hmm.
The classic Elara Smith backhanded compliment.
(playful music)
I don't know how to take that.
- (chuckles) - Now while I don't love your communication style,
I do really like the hashtag idea.
I'm glad you like it.
A little long.
- Okay, I don't think it's that long.
"Hashtag festivity in Ashby Falls" has a nice ring to it.
Oh, it's our next dare! (grunts)
(soft music)
Okay...
You sure you're up for it, Mr. Elbows?
Alright.
"Eight Maids-a-Milking: Eggnog-making."
- I take it the school makes eggnog for the fundraiser?
- Very good. And there should even be
some parents and board members there,
so it'll be the perfect opportunity
to keep talking about the program.
- Now, you know, I really, I don't think I should go.
This injury is really bad.
- No, no, no, no. You are not getting out of it that easy.
Mmm.
(festive Christmassy music)
(Rita): Alright, everyone, partner up
and step in a little closer so you can see what's going on.
- So I suppose, if I partner with you,
you'll just do it all for me?
- Hmm. And I suppose, if I partner with you,
you'll just walk away if it isn't what you expected?
- Hmm. (Rita): Now the first step is
to separate the egg yolks from the egg whites.
- Okay... - Alright...
(curious music)
Oh! (Gabriel snorts)
- I pierced the yolk. - Yeah, that's why
you just buy premade eggnog.
- Okay, now I know you're still American at heart.
Alright, you try, smarty-pants.
Okay.
(egg breaks)
- Show off. (chuckles)
- I thought we were actually supposed to be here
talking to the parents.
(Rita): And in a separate bowl,
measure all the sugar. (Gabriel): Alright.
- Uh, uh, uh, uh! She said measure.
No, I don't work from recipes.
It's all about instinct, intuition.
- Hey, we are going to get this right. Measure.
Fine.
- There. - Is that good?
- Hmm. - Okay.
- So what's next? - You whisk together
the yolk and the sugar.
- Alright, so this is the cinnamon, yeah?
- Yes. - Take a little bit of that...
- Okay. - Boom, a little extra
for good luck and to annoy you.
Thank you. Great.
(whisking)
I'll pour this in here.
- There you go. - Thank you.
- C'est pour toi. - Merci.
Santé!
(chuckling)
- Hmm. - Wow. That, uh...
- That's actually really good. - That is really good.
- Mm-hmm. - See? I knew we would
get it right if we just followed the recipe perfectly.
- Wait, so you like it. - I love it.
You like it. Okay, good.
So you're not gonna be angry to learn that I...
that we, because we're a team,
that we forgot the nutmeg.
- You forgot the--
- Hey, no, no, no! Hey, you said you liked it.
(sighs)
- Who needs nutmeg? - Aah. Cheers.
Cheers.
Alright, picture or didn't happen.
Okay. (chuckling)
(camera clicks)
(satisfied sigh)
- Alright, let's leave before we have to clean anything up,
- shall we? - Yeah, good call. Okay.
Alright. (Gabriel laughs)
(birds chirping)
(gentle music)
- Hey, Chelsey! - Hi!
(door closes)
What, do you work here?
- Just helping out. - Yeah, no,
Troy looks like he can use all the help he can get.
- No, actually, we've been selling a lot off the website.
I've just been doing what I do best,
- creating an online presence. - Oh, hey, you should use
the new hashtag that she just created.
It's um, "hashtag festivity in Ashby Falls."
(Elara clears throat) And it's really great 'cause
it's driving a lot of people to the fundraiser--
(impact) (Elara clears throat) Ah!
- Interesting. Yeah, the uh, Swiftygram
that you hated in the beginning?
Uh...
(phone rings)
- Gotta take this. - Yeah, convenient.
(nervous chuckle)
- Principal Olsen! (Rita): Elara.
I heard people are more interested in the program
since you two have been hobnobbing.
Oh, that's great news.
I'm actually with Gabriel right now.
I'll put you on speaker. She says we've been
getting people interested in the program.
- Yeah, actually, people are really interested,
especially when we tell them exactly what the students
are gonna get in return.
- Mm-hmm, yes, well, we'll see how it goes.
- Uh, also, Elara and her sister,
they've been doing these dares,
and they've been documenting them on Swiftygram
with a hashtag, and it's actually sending
a lot of traffic to the school's website for fundraising too.
- I see. Well, this might explain
the extra donations on the school website.
(uplifting music)
- Yeah, actually, the whole thing has been inspiring
a revamp of my itinerary,
with getting the kids out of the schools
and into town activities.
- Not something I would have thought of.
Let's see how the school board feels about all of it.
- Okay, thank you so much, Principal Ols--
(call ends)
- Did she just hang up on you? - Yeah, no, she's a real--
(Chelsey clears throat) Oh.
Okay, tomorrow's dare.
"Seven Swans Swimming:
Do the annual Christmas polar bear plunge."
No.
For the fundraiser...
No!
Absolutely not!
I can't believe you convinced me to do that this morning.
- Oh, admit it. You had fun.
It was an experience.
But not one I think the students should have.
- Fair enough. Not all the dares will work for the students.
- Hmm. - Maybe we could have them do
ice sculptures or something.
- Sounds good. - Hm.
(paper crinkles)
- Yeah, you know what? I could just do this one.
- I thought we're supposed to make our own ornaments
for the Christmas tree.
- (inhales deeply) - Fine. Do it wrong.
Thank you.
I will. (Elara chuckles)
How did you...?
Practice makes perfect.
- Hey, have you heard anything about the... about the inn?
The leak? I just...
I noticed a few more rooms had been closed off.
Do you think they have it under control?
- I haven't heard anything, but I'm sure it's fine.
(phone dings) (Elara gasps)
I bet that's the Christmas basket delivery service.
Should be getting here any min--
- (gasps) - What?
- They cancelled the order! - Why?
- They said something about lack of stock?
But the students will be arriving in six days!
- Well, is there something else we can order?
This close to Christmas?
Um...
Maybe we can make our own welcome baskets
with things we find around town, local items?
We could do it ourselves, it'll be great.
(Gabriel groans) I know.
I just really want everything to be perfect.
We can do this. We got it!
(quirky music)
Come on, Gabriel, keep up!
Don't drop anything!
(blows raspberries)
(soft Christmas music)
(Gabriel chuckles)
- Whoo! (both guffaw)
(Gabriel sighs)
Well, I now have a newfound respect
for gift wrappers, and um, elves.
(chuckling)
- Okay, I think it's time for a break.
- Hmm. - Are you in the mood for some tea?
- Sounds good. - Okay.
(phone rings)
- Oh, Victor, I will call you back.
- There you are. - Oh, thank you.
So look what I found.
Chelsey is getting really good at planting these.
Hmm. What day are we on now?
- "Six Geese a-Laying: Lay out under the stars
and watch a Christmas movie."
Aw. We used to have so much fun doing that as kids.
When we were little, our parents used to bring
a blanket out into the backyard with this little projector
and just cozy up in the cold.
- In Portland, we would sip coffee,
listen to live music against a backdrop of mountains,
and talk about the latest obscure book we've read.
- Okay, pretentious pants. (chuckles)
(laughing)
- Should we go? - Let's go.
- Okay. (laughing)
(birds chirping)
(enchanted music)
(Gabriel chuckles)
- Hi. - Hi.
- This is amazing. (chuckling): Right?
- Okay. (groans)
So, got us a couple of coffees. I wasn't sure what you wanted.
And apparently, in Ashby Falls, you can't get something
as simple as a café au lait.
I got a peppermint mocha
and something called the Grinch,
which I don't even know what to expect from that.
Which would you like?
- Well, I think you should definitely keep the Grinch,
Mr. Grinch.
- (chuckling) - Here.
Thank you.
Oh, and I got us...
matching sweaters!
No.
No, no, no.
No, I've lived in France too long
to wear anything that...
well, whatever that is.
- Okay, well, I tried. (chuckling)
- Actually, I have something better.
Oh.
- I got this from one of the fundraising booths.
Handmade.
I love how much you support
the local arts and businesses here.
- Hmm. Well, all the artisans that I've met,
they really care about their craft.
And that is a very French attitude.
- Well, that's why I think the exchange
between Ashby Falls and Saint Nuelle is so perfect.
They have so many things in common.
I really do think I should try
and make a trip out to France soon.
(sentimental music)
France would love to have you.
- Sometimes, you have to be bold, right?
Right.
(movie soundtrack playing on TV)
- Um... (chuckles)
Welcome to your first outdoor movie experience
in Ashby Falls. I know,
Chelsey really tried with the stars, huh?
(nervous laugh)
(TV playing)
Only a few more days until the students arrive.
We may actually pull this off.
- And I think we should include this too, for the students.
It's great.
Yeah, you like it?
It's perfect.
(sentimental music)
(Gabriel clears throat)
Okay.
So, what is this guy's deal?
(birds chirping)
(bright Christmas music)
- Oh. - Ah. There you go.
- Thank you. Those are heavier than they look.
- (chuckles) - I know, the students
are gonna love 'em. (both chuckling)
(phone dings)
Oh, Chelsey texted. (gasps)
We raised $4,000!
That's amazing!
- She also said to look under the couch.
(curious music)
(Elara grunts)
Found it!
- I think we deserve to open that.
I think so.
Okay.
"Five Golden Rings:
I dare you to run around town and find
the five Christmas bells I've hidden around Ashby Falls."
- Okay, but how are we gonna find them?
- I think this is a clue. (gasps)
What if it's a scavenger hunt?
It's a riddle!
"I cannot speak, but I tell a story.
My home is filled with cheer and mirth."
What is mirth, anyway?
- It's Christmas joy. - Oh.
(pensive music)
Long shot, but isn't there that bust statue thing
on the mantel at the tavern?
Yes!
Oh! Perfect, well done!
- Cheers. - Cheers!
(chuckling)
Found it!
(chuckling)
"I'm the place you go to make thoughts grow."
- The school. - Ah!
- I think your sister might need a little lesson in pun making.
That's fair, she tries.
(snort laugh)
(♪♪)
- Okay, how are we gonna know which tree?
Because there are so many.
- I think I know which one it is.
It's our meeting tree.
When we were kids, it's where we'd wait
for our parents to pick us up.
- It's wonderful how close you and your sister are.
And not to pry...
what happened to your parents?
Car accident.
My last year of high school.
I inherited the house and tried really hard to keep it.
I wanted to stay in Ashby Falls to give Chelsey
a sense of stability.
It was the right thing to do,
even if it did throw off my plans to study abroad.
Where were you supposed to go?
Paris.
- And now I understand why this exchange program
is so important to you.
You know, dreams change.
You can't always control what comes into your life,
so I just tried to make a difference here
in Ashby Falls.
Oh! (chuckles)
(gentle music)
Alright.
"If you grab the handle and take a swing,
the last two bells will make a ring."
Ding!
Creamery.
(chuckles)
Now is there a prize
for who gets there first?
- I don't think so, but if there is...
- Hey! Cheat! (Elara chuckles)
(playful music)
(door chimes jingling)
- Hi, guys. (Chelsey): Hey!
- Hey! - You found the last bell.
- We did. - Perfect timing.
(chuckling) Just in time for your surprise.
Oh, what's the surprise?
- Oh, the Elara Smith Hazelnut and Spice Float.
- You named a float after me? - It's sweet,
but it packs a punch. Just like you.
- Very funny. - It is so popular
- that we've almost sold out. - Mm-hmm.
Oh, sold out?
Uh, not to be rude, but there's nobody here.
- Oh, no, no, no, no. It's all about online now.
Hashtag festivity in Ashby Falls.
- No way! (Chelsey chuckles)
- Okay, so your usual table, sir, madame.
- Mm, okay. - Merci!
(gentle music)
- I can't believe they named this float after me.
I feel so honoured. (both chuckle)
- That's good. - Mm-hmm.
Uh, by the way, guys,
we are sponsoring the fruitcake competition
at the fundraiser tomorrow.
Chelsey is gonna be running it.
She is the new face of the revamped creamery.
- The winning bold flavour is gonna become
a permanent fixture at Ashby Falls Creamery.
- Right, Troy? - Yeah! Uh-huh!
(soft chuckle)
- That's a great idea. - Oh, I'm full of 'em.
(Troy): Huh.
- You know, I will never understand
why people are so obsessed with fruitcake.
- So you won't be joining us then?
There's gonna be a lot of people there.
Might be the perfect opportunity
to keep schmoozing with the parents.
Or a trial run for the students.
Nope, I'll be there.
Between my resourcefulness
and your fastidious recipe following.
- You know, I might start to believe
that you're actually enjoying yourself.
What gave it away?
(laughing)
(birds chirping)
- Hey. - Hi!
- Let myself in. Hope you don't mind.
- Oh. No, not at all. - Okay.
Um... So last night,
I binged a ton of cooking shows
and this is always how they do their cute little spreads.
- (Gabriel chuckles) - Okay, well,
I've actually been doing some brainstorming too,
and I have an idea for the fruitcake.
- Okay. - What do you think...
pear and blue cheese?
Uh...
- No? Not sold. Ah, alright.
Well, hope nobody else steals that idea.
Well, I guess we're gonna go with my back-up,
which is cherries and plum.
Uh...
We can make it like a French clafoutis.
- Perfect! As long as there's a recipe online we can follow.
- Oh, no, no. There's not gonna be a recipe for that.
No, we're just having fun. We're mixing cultures.
Plus, any recipe I use isn't going to include nutmeg,
so we should be fine.
(Elara giggles) Alright.
- Here you go. - Oh!
Your little apron.
It's dainty.
(laughs)
Okay, what first?
- I don't know, it's your recipe, you tell me.
- Let's go for some eggs. - Okay.
Oh!
- No, put that-- no! Oh, my God! No!
(Elara laughs)
♪ Deck the halls with boughs of holly ♪
♪ Fa la la la la La la la la ♪
♪ Fa la ♪
♪ La la la la ♪
♪ Deck the halls Deck the halls ♪
♪ Deck the halls ♪♪
- That looks pretty good! - Thank you.
- Are you ready to try our masterpiece?
- Mm-hmm, yeah. I'm actually kind of nervous about it.
- Oh, are you? - Yeah.
- Don't be nervous. (both chuckling)
- Mmm! That's actually really good.
Oh, it is really good.
- Yeah! - Mmm!
- Here, give me another piece. - Mm.
(uplifting music) (camera clicks)
(satisfied sigh)
- I didn't realize how much people loved fruitcake.
Hey, how'd yours turn out?
- We went a little off recipe. - And?
It was really fun.
And how was baking with Troy?
Actually, he, um...
he offered me a partnership.
- What?! - It's not a totally stupid idea.
I mean...
I think I'm gonna stick in Ashby Falls for a while.
(gasps) Oh, stop.
Maybe I'm tired of getting no respect or credit in the city.
You know, maybe I like someone listening to my ideas
and seeing real tangible results.
I know the feeling.
Yeah. People change.
- Okay. So now, this is pear and blue cheese.
I just would like to remind you who said
that was gonna be a good idea. Oh, that's right.
It was me. This is so good.
(laughs) Here, try this.
Here's a fork for you.
(laughing): Thank you.
- Who is he? - Yeah, I do not know. (laughs)
- Now this one, c'est guimauve et cerises.
Uh, this is cherries and marshmallows.
- So good. - Okay. Well,
while you sink your teeth into that... (Elara): Mmm.
- Sink your eyes into this. (carollers laughing)
- Ooh, another one. - Aw, I love Christmas carollers.
(Chelsey): Oh, I know.
Alright. Here.
Okay, dare #4.
"Four Calling Birds: sing a Christmas carol
in front of a crowd"?
Chelsey, you know I don't sing in front of people.
- Well, okay. The whole point of these dares
is to help you grow. Push yourself.
Right. You can't quit now.
- Hmm. - Uh...
(Chelsey giggles)
Fine. (heavy sigh)
(Chelsey giggles)
Oh.
Thanks.
(exhales)
(sighs)
- Hi. Hello. Hi. - Hi!
- (nervous chuckle) - Oh, thank you.
Let's go with this one.
Alright.
♪ We wish you a merry Christmas ♪ - She's good.
♪ We wish you a merry Christmas ♪
- Shall I? - Yeah.
♪ We wish you a merry Christmas ♪
♪ And a happy new year ♪
♪ Good tidings we bring ♪
♪ To you and your kin ♪ (phone dings)
♪ Good tidings for Christmas ♪
♪ And a happy new year ♪
♪ We wish you a merry Christmas ♪
♪ And a happy new year ♪♪
(fire crackling)
So... you're an alto.
(Elara laughs)
Would have pegged you as a soprano.
- Guess I'm full of surprises. (laughing)
I feel like I just jumped out of an airplane.
(laughing) (Gabriel): No parachute.
- (Elara): Oh! Principal Olsen! - Well!
I'm glad to see you have time to relax
while your program is falling apart around you.
I'm sorry?
- You seem to be spending an awful lot of time, uh,
singing, baking, updating social media.
I'm surprised with the inn having completely flooded today.
What exactly is your back-up plan for your students?
- The inn flooded? - The whole bottom floor.
I've been trying to reach you.
What do we do?
That's it, then.
Ooh, what about the board?
Maybe they'd be willing to act as host families?
This close to Christmas?
(scoffs) Big ask.
- Ah, there's gotta be something we could do.
Would you maybe be willing to take some kids?
This is your mess.
You clean it up.
- Alright... What was that all about?
The inn flooded.
I feel like my happy balloon just popped.
It's one problem right after another.
- Okay, no. You need to care less about
what she and everyone else thinks,
and just focus on what you do best.
(both): Solve the crisis.
- (sighs) - Thank you.
Ooh! I see some parents I can ask.
- Okay. Wish me luck! - Go!
- Hello? Hi! Mrs. Robertson! - Hey.
Don't let her dim her light.
She's been so excited for the Saint Nuelle students.
She just needs to keep overcoming these little bumps.
- Yeah, but are you sure she's gonna want
to keep going after this?
- Trust me. She wants to finish this.
It's for tomorrow. Can I trust you?
Yeah. I won't let her quit.
I promise.
Thank you.
(hopeful music)
- Elara, this really is a great idea.
(Elara chuckles)
- Alright, uh... Fabian, what are his hobbies?
Oh, he goes mad for football.
He also loves photography
and um... oh, he loves dogs.
- Oh, you know who he'd be really great with?
My student Scotty Ash. They have the same interests.
Good. Oh, perfect.
- You know, with these little information packets,
I think we'll find some families in no time.
- I don't think I've ever met anyone
with a more positive attitude.
- Well, if the gingerbread house won't stay,
just use more icing, right?
- (laughs) - Didn't work for me.
(laughing)
(birds chirping)
- (Elara sighs) - I'm exhausted.
- I just can't believe you found a placement
for two of the three kids in less than 24 hours.
(chuckles) It's incredible.
- Thank you. I just can't stop thinking about what Rita said.
She doesn't see all the hard work.
She only sees the problems. Like someone I know.
Well, don't worry about her.
She will be impressed.
Especially when she sees how much money you raised.
- What are you up to now? - 9,000.
Just one more thousand
and we can cover all this ridiculousness.
Mm.
(Elara exhales)
I just feel so bad.
- Well, since you can't do anything about that now,
how about...
- Is this why you dragged me out here?
Hm, it wasn't a hard sell.
You're pretty much the craziest person
about Christmas I've ever met.
That's true. Gimme.
- Alright, dare #3. "On the third day of Christmas,
my little sis gave to me three French hens.
Hens sit.
Therefore, I dare you to sit on Santa's lap
and make your Christmas wish."
Wow, she is really stretching
- these dares, huh? - Mm-hmm.
(people laughing)
- Have a good Christmas. - Thank you.
(sweet music)
- It's your turn. - Yeah, uh...
- can you hold my purse? - Sure.
Okay.
- Hi, Santa. - Hello.
- (nervous chuckle) - Okay.
- Don't forget to tell him your wish.
Yeah. I'm thinking about it.
- Hi, Santa. - Hi.
- I actually don't know what I want my wish to be. - Hmm.
I thought I knew.
I've been working so hard on this project,
and not just because I want to be vice principal,
but because I really want my students
to have the experience that I never had.
But now...
I think I'm starting to wish for more.
I want the handsome prince
and the romance with a happy ending.
I just don't know that one person
can have all those things.
- Um, usually, kids just ask me for a bike.
- (chuckles) - Oh.
But... here you go.
- That'll do. Thanks. (Santa chuckles)
- Okay. Photo? - Oh, okay.
(chuckling)
- Ho, ho, ho! (Elara giggles)
(camera clicks)
(♪♪)
And... done.
There.
It's perfect.
I love how you've added all the pictures
of our activities. Look at that.
Look at... (both laugh)
- Yeah, I don't know. I was feeling really weird
about putting myself into the presentation.
- What? No, you are the presentation.
All your energy, your passion,
plus all those activities that you thought up and then planned.
Um...
I'm really proud of you.
I just... wish we could have...
Something more?
Yeah. Huh? Oh!
Um, no, I'm good. (awkward chuckle)
- Okay. Here you go. - Oh, here we are.
(Chelsey clears throat) Okay, "Two Turtle Doves."
- (Chelsey): Mm-hmm. - "Turtle doves represent friendship.
I dare you to extend the Christmas spirit to someone
and Christmas-ify their house"? Chelsey?
- Okay, well, your house always looks so great
that I thought it might be fun to bring the joy
to someone else this season.
Is there anyone in town you can think of
who you might wanna make feel special for the holidays?
- Uh... well, there is someone I can think of.
Oh, you are testing me.
- (laughs) - What else are sisters good for?
- Christmas treats? - Oh, thank you.
Well, if I am gonna do this,
I'm gonna need a lot of help. This one's a biggie.
Well, I'm in. Let's do it.
- Always here to help. (Chelsey chuckles)
- We are going to Christmas-ify the heck out of the house.
- Okay. - Yeah, uh...
but where are we going?
To principal Olsen's.
- Oh... - Oh.
(curious music)
(overlapping chatter) (giggling)
- I really hope she likes it. - Of course she will.
It's thoughtful and fun.
Just like you.
Hey, we're all set.
- I just wanna make sure it's perfect.
- Oop! - Ooh!
(sentimental music)
- Uh... (clears throat)
You guys ready? (clears throat)
Uh, so if we get caught, um...
is this illegal? (nervous chuckle)
- Well, you can't really get in trouble
for being too Christmassy, right?
- (giggling) - Right.
- I hope not. (chuckling)
Alright, Troy, light her up.
(bright music)
Merry Christmas, Rita.
To turtle doves and friendship.
- We should really add Christmas-ifying a public space
to the kids' itinerary.
(Elara chuckles)
C'est très beau.
(door opens)
(whispers): Oh.
Wha...?
- They're not gonna send me back to France, will they?
- Well, if they do, you're taking me with you.
Okay.
Whose idea was this?
Um...
(light chuckle)
(soft chuckles)
- Well, it's perfect. Just perfect.
I've been so busy lately and a little stressed out.
But...
it finally feels like Christmas.
(satisfied sigh)
- Well, how about some Christmas treats on me?
- Elara, a quick private word? - Okay.
(soft music)
I want to apologize.
I'm sorry.
Every challenge that's come your way, you faced it.
Every opportunity to get out there
in front of the parents, you took it.
Now the board still needs to approve this, but...
I want you by my side.
I want you as my vice principal.
(Elara): Really?
Yes.
I'll catch up with you guys.
(chuckles)
(Rita): I really believe that you're finally up
for this additional challenge.
- Cheers to Christmas-ifying Rita's house.
- Cheers! (laughing)
There she is! Ms. Vice Principal!
You guys cheersing without me?
- Oh, we'll get you one in a second.
- I still can't get over Rita's face.
- Oh, I know. (laughing)
(door chimes jingling) (door closes)
Victor?
(revealing music)
Qu'est-ce que vous fa... What are you doing here?
- I should ask you the same thing.
- Oh. Uh, je suis vraiment désolé.
Can we speak in private?
Of course.
(Chelsey): Well, he does not look happy.
- (door chimes jingling) - No, he does not.
Are you alright?
Uh, no. Not really.
He wants them to turn around as soon as they arrive.
- That's a bit harsh. - No, it's true.
From the very beginning, I should have just
listened to my gut and reimbursed the students
and tell them that the program was off.
He went to the inn, and he saw that it was flooded.
I tried to explain to him about the homestays
and the families, but...
Elara, I need to ask you something.
Instead of using the fundraising money for the program,
can we use it to buy new tickets home for the students?
What about the program?
Try again next year.
(phone vibrates) Please?
- I can't believe you wanna give up at this final hurdle!
- (gasps) - What? What?
It's the fundraiser link.
Ah, I just kept getting all these e-mails, but...
I didn't read the fine print. How can I be so stupid?
What does it say?
- It says that if we don't raise all of the money
within the next 12 hours, we won't get any of it.
I was in such a rush when I set this up,
I just made the amount 10,000
because it was a nice, round number,
but we're $1,000 short.
I don't have that kind of extra cash lying around.
- Do you? - On my salary?
No, no, that's it.
Gabriel!
- No, first it's a miscommunication,
then the inn floods,
then the students don't have a place to stay.
- I have been the one to try and find solutions
every single time, while your attitude
has just been to throw your hands in the air
and say, "I'm gonna walk away."
- Oh yeah? One minute you're saying,
"Oh, I need to go to France and I need to make a change,"
then the next you're jumping on the vice principal job
like nothing has changed!
I thought you were supposed to be bold!
- And I thought you were supposed to be on my team,
but I guess not.
- This was a mistake from the beginning.
- The only mistake here was putting my faith in you.
Gabriel.
(door chimes jingling)
(door slams)
(gentle music)
(Chelsey inhales deeply)
(Chelsey): Mmm...
Smells pretty good in here.
Gotta say I'm conflicted.
'Cause I do feel bad for you, but...
I love it when you make your sad stew.
I'm not making my sad stew.
I'm making my regular winter stew.
- Oh, yeah, right, right, right, right, right. Yeah.
Do you wanna talk about what happened?
Nope.
(spoon clatters)
I don't think I'll ever get the exchange program approved,
not after what a disaster this has all been.
Well...
it's almost midnight, so...
technically, basically Christmas Eve.
- This whole thing has brought me nothing but trouble, Chelsey.
- That is such a strange way to look at all this.
Okay, look, I know that you're upset,
but come on!
I know it's been hectic, but it's been wonderful too.
Just look at the Swiftygram.
We now have over 20,000 followers.
What?
- People from all around the world
have been inspired by your courage.
They donated, they got invested.
They're all waiting to see what the final dare is.
Aren't you just the least bit curious?
- (sighs) - Fine.
♪ On the last day of Christmas my little sis gave to me ♪
♪ A partridge in a pear tree ♪♪
"I dare you to have a hot cocoa
in our old fort on Christmas Eve."
Just like when we were kids.
It's been a while.
Let's go. (soft chuckle)
- It's not ready yet. - Okay, okay, okay.
(♪♪)
Looks so pretty at night.
- Yet somehow it just feels a little smaller.
It does, right?
Oh, you got the fire going.
Oh, yes. I was prepared.
- Remember when we used to bring out marshmallows out here?
- Oh, speaking of marshmallows. - Yeah?
Oh! (laughing)
Hot cocoa made by yours truly.
- Ah, you always make the best hot cocoa. - Mm.
(both): Mmm...
- The tour is not over. - Oh!
- Right this way. - Yeah.
(sniffles)
Ah, you're the best!
All my favourite snacks!
(laughing) (Chelsey clears throat)
- And that's not all. - Hmm?
Look what I found.
- I haven't seen this in forever! Oh!
(laughing)
It was a simpler time back then, way less complicated.
Well, I don't know.
Sometimes, complicated can be...
- interesting. - Hmm?
Okay, I, uh...
I have something to tell you.
Okay.
Gosh. Uh...
So Troy asked me out and I said yes.
- Really?! (squeals)
- (laughing) - Calm down, calm down.
It's just one date,
or maybe it's two. I don't know.
We've been spending a lot of time together.
He really likes me.
You guys are so cute together!
(laughing)
Oh, you brought up my cookies that I just made.
- Oh, of course. I wouldn't leave these behind.
They're my favourite.
- Well, I made that batch just for you.
Mmm.
- Did you...? - Add chili powder, yes, I did.
- Mmm. (Elara laughs)
So good.
- I, uh... have a little something for you.
- You made me a card? - I did.
You're so cute!
(Chelsey hums)
"Deed... to the house."
(soft music)
Elara?
What is this?
- Something I should have given you years ago.
Seems like you and Ashby Falls have some unfinished business.
Is this piece of scrap paper
with your chicken scratch handwriting legally binding?
Give me a break, okay?
The lawyer's offices were closed.
It's a holiday, but yes, it's real.
- Best sister ever. (both chuckling)
(grunts) I love you.
- It makes me so happy your heart is happy.
- (sniffles) - Yeah?
- Mm-hmm.
And what about yours?
What about mine?
- I know this whole thing has been kind of rough, but...
I've never seen you as happy as when you've been with Gabriel.
Yeah, well...
not every story is a fairytale that ends with the girl...
getting her handsome prince.
It's okay.
(school bell rings)
(indistinct chatter)
- I'm sorry I reacted so strongly.
You did your best for our students.
Let's just clarify the situation with Principal Olsen
and I can be on my way.
Victor, wait, hold on.
It wasn't just me.
Because if it had been, I probably would have
jumped ship and run home as soon as I arrived
if it hadn't been for Elara.
But I'm proud of Elara.
She brought this community together.
I really think the kids would have liked the homestays.
And everything we planned and organized.
But can I show you something?
- Qu'est-ce que c'est? - It's Elara's Swiftygram.
The 12 Dares of Christmas.
It sort of became a blueprint... (Victor chuckles)
...for everything we'd have the students do while they were here.
And I witnessed firsthand
how it brought Elara out of her shell.
I underestimated her.
At the end of the day, I just want what's best
for our students.
Let's go see Principal Olsen, shall we?
Oui.
(birds chirping)
(sighs)
(Chelsey): Hey, is everything okay, Elara?
- (whispers): Hey. - Oh...
my palms won't stop sweating.
- Oh, you'll figure out what to say.
Not this time, Chelsey.
All the parents I convinced,
all the students they're expecting to meet,
all the money I failed to raise.
- Well, have you checked the fundraiser?
No, I couldn't.
I don't wanna know how close we almost got.
Deadline's already passed.
Stop driving yourself crazy.
(bright music)
Wait, what?
It says we made the final target.
Who made the final donation?
"Ashby Falls Creamery, $1,000."
Troy?
- Has made so much money off the hashtag that you made.
It brought attention to his artisanal flavours,
and with a little help from a social media genius, aka...
(clicks teeth) business has been thriving.
So you go in there
and tell them that you figured it out.
Convince Gabriel to let the students stay.
Yeah, sure, okay. It was last minute, but...
you did it.
They have to hear you out.
You are our Vice Principal Smith, after all.
Thank you, Chelsey.
I love you.
(sniffles)
(chuckles)
(panting)
Oh! Oh, oh no!
Oh... (pants)
- There you go. - Gabriel.
It happens to the best of us.
- You have to let the students stay into the exchange.
I know that everything went wrong, and it was
one disaster after another, but we did it!
- We raised the money! - Elara.
Victor and I talked.
And we want the students to experience
the program that you created.
- You do? - That's why we're all here.
- What? (door opens)
(indistinct chatter)
- I'm sorry. Do you... smell that?
No, what?
I think it's...
Christmas spirit.
(laughing)
Come on. We're gonna be late. Come on!
- Thank you all so much for coming here today.
I know we've asked a lot of our community
over the past two weeks.
So it is my pleasure to introduce our students of Saint Nuelle
and explain the program that I've developed
with the help of Mr. Beaufoy.
The 12 Dares of Christmas program is designed
to help our students grow.
"How?" you may be asking.
That's me, a previously uptight perfectionist
doing various festive activities.
Gingerbread making competition,
sitting on Santa's lap.
Singing Christmas carols and...
generally humiliating myself all over town.
(chuckles)
But through these experiences,
I've developed a program I'm really, truly proud of.
One that will help our guests
fully experience the holiday spirit.
And helped me realize that this is exactly
the type of opportunity that we need now more than ever.
That it's okay to dream.
And it's okay to dare.
(soft chuckle)
The success of this program
and everything that went into it
has made this Christmas extra special for me,
and one that I will never forget.
(applause)
(hopeful music)
(indistinct chatter)
(nervous breathing)
Elara! There you are.
Thank you for your dedication to this project.
The way you've brought the community together.
I just wanted to say, well done.
Thank you.
- Now we should make our way down to the town Christmas tree.
Okay.
Great job, vice principal.
(gentle music)
- Hi, Miss Vice Principal. (Elara chuckles)
You did great in there.
Thank you.
- And I hear there's one more tradition.
Should we follow them?
That's perfect! Let's go!
- So... made you something. - You did?
(both laugh)
It's pretty bad. (laughing)
Fine!
But you know,
not everything has to be perfect
for it to be good.
I learned that from
a smart, dedicated,
unique person.
- Gabriel, I shouldn't have blown up at you like that.
- I'm sorry. - No, I'm sorry.
When I first came to Ashby Falls,
I didn't support you.
And I should have.
The way you are with the students,
the school, the program...
- You never gave up. - But you were right.
I do need a change.
It's time I explore further than Ashby Falls.
All these dares,
the way we inspired people to dream bigger.
I need to do that.
And if this program is really gonna work,
I think I need to come to France.
For a semester.
I would love nothing more.
- Since you missed the last dare,
I thought I'd bring you a last dare of my own.
(Gabriel chuckles)
Well...
I dare you.
(music swells)
(bright music)
(Chelsey and Troy giggle)
(all laughing)
Subtitling: difuze