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Our lead, Hannah, is a travel agent. This travel agency office is filled with lots of REAL definitely NOT STOCK PHOTOS of tropical locations. Her boss pulls her aside to talk about cold weather vacations. This agency normally focuses exclusively on tropical vacations. I think the name is actually “Tropical Vacations Travel Agency” or something creative like that. Her boss tells her they want to expand to cold weather vacation packages and Hannah may just be the girl to lead the new division. So, she is getting sent to “The Ice Hotel.” There is, of course, a real hotel with that very generic name. It’s in Sweden. However, as we continue with this movie, you may find this, as I did, quite puzzling. Hannah doesn’t want to go because she hates the cold. Also, she planned a tropical cruise with her family. So she can’t go. Her boss lets her know that she’s in line to be “manager” so she really needs to cancel her vacation and head to the ice hotel. And obviously she has to go RIGHTTHISMINUTE. It can’t wait until after her week of vacation.

While packing for the trip, Hannah’s recently dumped friend, Phoebe decides to tag along. I love how everyone in Hallmark movies can just drop everything and go on an expensive trip at the last minute.

The girls pull up to the hotel and guys. It looks SO COOL. Literally and figuratively. Inside there are ice slides, ice sculptures. Again, like SO COOL. Would I want to sleep there after seeing what I’ve seen? No probably not. As you’ll see, they still have to sleep in their coats and stuff.

Hannah gets bumped out of line by someone. It turns out to be someone she has booked travel for frequently! What a coincidence. Peter (?) I think, gets a complimentary room upgrade just for being there. The girls are in separate rooms. And like, not even close to each other. That is kind of a bummer I think? For a friend vacation? I would have asked to be next door or maybe even to turn my room into two queens at least. I mean, don’t get me wrong, I like my privacy but if the point is the hang together then I wouldn’t want my friend on the other side of the hotel. Hannah gets lost on her way to her room. She runs into a guy sculpting right in the middle of the hallway. (Our lead, Ben) Also, this was totally meant to be a winter movie.

OMG. This ROOM. It looks so so cool. Ben says she’ll get the best night sleep of her life there. Why am I freezing? Also why doesn’t anyone sound Swedish? Guys, not a single person in this movie, who alleges to live in or around the Ice Hotel is Swedish or even pretending to be Swedish.

Later the girls sit outside in a hot tub with jackets on! I feel like that doesn’t make a difference? I’ve sat in an outdoor heated pool in the Winter in a regular swimsuit. I don’t get the jackets. I just don’t feel like an extra layer really adds anything in the water unless it’s an actual wet/dry suit…? Someone explain! Hannah’s friend drops her phone in the water and runs to find rice for it. These are straight up hot tubs. Hannah gets out and can’t figure out which robe is hers? And she is way too calm about standing outside in that temperature. Like WAY. Phoebe at least danced around and pretended to be cold. Ben helps her get her robe on and again, I must reiterate that she is way too calm about the temperature.

Later, Hannah video calls her mom who is DEFINITELY on a cruise on a tropical beach.

The next morning, Hannah discovers that Ben is the co-owner of the hotel. Ben, as I’m sure I’ve mentioned, is NOT SWEDISH. Bridget, the front desk lady (also not Swedish) tells Ben that Peter is actually a hotel reviewer. I think she likes Ben also.

Then the girls have breakfast. Phoebe tells Hannah she is going to spend the whole day talking on the phone to her ex boyfriend Sean. Hannah calls her a wet sandwich to her face. Hannah tells Phoebe she plans to go on a tour of the ice hotel with Ben. She’s already admitted that she likes him too! Despite the fact that Hannah sat down mere moments ago, Phoebe decides not to eat any of her breakfast and runs off to her room.

Now it’s time for the tour. Ben talks Hannah in to sliding down the ice slide. I can see their breath but they are being so chill about being cold. I apologize for the pun. I have witnessed real life ice slides and as my children can attest, they are in fact, very fun. I love everything in the hotel! The rooms all have a different theme with different carvings into the walls and stuff. However, the rooms don’t have doors. Just curtains. So that’s weird. No one is worried about their valuables? Also, where do you shower? Or use the bathroom? Surely you can’t do any of those things in your hotel room? I tried to look up the hotel online to see how they managed these logistics and the website kept freezing. Again, no pun intended.

Hannah tells Ben she is a travel agent but she’d love to be managing a hotel. Then Hannah finds out that Peter is the super secret hotel reviewer.

The next day, the girls go cross country skiing. They somehow end up right where Bridget is unloading a kransekake for the traditional Nordic dinner that night. Then obviously, Hannah knocks it over with her skis. Because of course Bridget is trying to set up outside where everyone is cross country skiing even though later we see that the dinner is inside.

Inside, Bridget and Ben are wondering what to do about the cake. Apparently their chef can only make pudding. Shall I repeat this-THEIR CHEF CAN ONLY MAKE PUDDING. Okay. So LUCKILY, Hannah seems to know everything about Nordic desserts and offers to make ebelskivers. I thought those were breakfast items, but what do I know?

Ben obviously helps her make them. This is so insane. It is just Ben and Hannah making dessert for the hotel guests that evening. Not another person in sight. Hannah shares that she’s always wanted to manage her own hotel. She did manage a hotel once but it flooded so she got fired and became a travel agent. As you do.

That night at dinner, Hannah catches Phoebe up on the day. Where was Phoebe though? Shouldn’t she should have helped with all the baking?

They bring out the ebelskivers…which actually looks like a French wedding cake. Is that also how ebelskivers are presented? Again, not in my experience but what do I know? Peter loves it. Apparently he is putting on an American accent for the hotel to be super sneaky. He loved the dessert! Like he had never in his life had such a thing. It’s basically a donut hole dude. Get a grip!

Phoebe heads back to her room to talk to Shawn. How many different ways can I spell this guy’s name? Doesn’t matter. Meanwhile, Hannah and Ben hang out over specialty cocktails. They start with homemade cider. Hannah says the cider is better than any tropical drink she’s ever had. But like, that’s totally circumstantial! You don’t want a tropical drink when it’s freezing, right? So when you’re cold, cider is definitely going to taste better than a cold fruity drink. Cider is definitely another signal that we were meant to view this in winter though, right? Then Hannah facetimes her boss. She’s up for the big promotion still so that’s good news..

The next morning. Hannah runs into Peter and suggests he try snow shoeing. But, UH OH. All the snow they got stopped staff from getting to work. So there is no one to lead the tour. Does Bridget live there then? So, Hannah offers to lead the snow shoeing tour. With Phoebe. Because apparently you need one person at the front and one at the back but other than that, there are no requirements of a snow shoe tour guide. Luckily, Phoebe is like a fitness instructor so that’s all the same thing, right? Bridget points out that they don’t know the trails but let me argue that they are presumably…trails? Right? So you could probably figure it out? Then Ben is like, I’ll go too to help them. He offers to CLEAR HIS WHOLE DAY to help facilitate a snow shoe tour rather than tell Peter the weather has impacted the activity. And also, if Ben is going, then surely they don’t need all three people? Ben could probably just handle it on his own. No matter. Hannah goes to break the news to Phoebe. Phoebe is reluctant to help but Hannah gives her some lame sob story about how she always screws everything up and she needs to redeem herself so Phoebe agrees.

Phoebe dives right in to instruction and they hustle these people along the trail. Also, Hannah is right next to her so what was all that “someone stays in the back” talk? They get to a point where Ben is not sure where they’re going. So then they get lost. Poor Peter looks like he is about to have a heart attack. Good thing Ben was there to navigate!

They see a house and stop in to ask directions. The home owners are NOT SWEDISH. These guys invite the WHOLE TOUR GROUP in for tea. The tour group has no idea that this isn’t a planned stop. They learn these home owners are glass artists. The husband shows them how to make glass and they each get a turn rolling the glass around. Then the husband asks if the guests want to try their hand at glass art as well. So this has really turned into a great tour.

They finally make it back. Bridget is not as freaked out as I thought she might be about them being gone because the guests all loved it. They said they should officially add that stop to the hike “next year.” Do they only do that once a year? Hannah suggests they make a brochure and Ben is just out of his mind about that idea. Like no one’s thought to do a brochure. Not a single brochure in this entire hotel apparently. He is ready to hire her to manage their brand new ice hotel in Finland. Bridget seems a little miffed by that. Then they walk around a beautiful lighted path and find their way to the “maple syrup party.”

Then Ben shows her how to make maple syrup. All the guests ten learn how to make maple taffy. I remember reading about this in Little House on the Prairie and I’ve always wanted to try it!! Hannah gets so excited she flings her little taffy sucker up and it sticks to Peter’s hat. Apparently it is HIS FAVORITE hat from some very specific place. Then Peter gets taffy stuck in his hair. Hannah just feels like she keeps screwing everything up. But also, she totally is.

The next day, Phoebe and Hannah wait for Shawn to arrive. Because he can just drop everything and fly to this hotel. Hannah finds Ben ice sculpting. Ben invites Hannah to help him sculpt the block of ice he’s working on. Hannah suggests a…seashell. He lets Hannah etch the design. Ben asks her about the whole hotel flooding business. It’s boring. Who cares. Ben encourages her generally.

Wow. They do a great job on the sea shell. Phoebe and Shawn arrive, arm and arm.

Hannah and Ben go on a carriage ride later.

Bridget catches Ben and relays a message from his dad-they closed on the Finland hotel. Like Ben’s dad would relay that message through their manager to him. Geez Louise. Bridget invites Ben out that night to celebrate. He has plans with Hannah already. Then Ben spills to Bridget about Hannah’s flooding dilemma. So Bridget googles ” New York hotel incidents” and THE FIRST HIT is a ridiculous picture of Hannah and something that says “New York Hotel Floods” or something like that. I don’t even want to type that phrase into my search engine. I guarantee a flooding incident from several years ago would not be top of the list. Also, I SWEAR to you earlier when she tells this story, she was managing a hotel in the Bahamas. Am I wrong?

After dinner they run into some guy that helped get the hotel set up. He said he makes time to help in between hockey periods to help out but that’s not how that works so what? Then he tells them they can see the Aurora Borealis. Wait are they not in Sweden? WHERE ARE THEY? This hockey reference plus the complete lack of accents makes me think it’s supposed to be Canada but why would the NEXT location be Finland? Then Hannah tells Ben she has a surprise for him the next day.

They head to the glass studio the next morning. They make a mini glass ice hotel. Hannah suggests that they give the guests each one to take home. OR SELL THEM FOR LIKE $50 each in the gift shop. Doy. They inexplicably have live music in the lobby and ol Peter jumps in on the keys. Hannah and Ben get up to dance. Then Shawn steals the mic from Peter. He gives a pretty weird speech but then proposes to Phoebe. Yay.

Ben asks Hannah if she wants a job in Finland. Poor Bridget has been BUSTING HER BUTT and he’s going to give the job to Hannah?! Because Hannah suggested they print a brochure with suggests activities on it? I am not sure honestly what Hannah has done aside from tell Ben she wants to manage a hotel to deserve to BECOME a hotel manager. Then Bridget arrives and is like, so Hannah are you going to bed right now? YOU DEFINITELY SHOULD.

Bridget stops by Hannah’s room and basically reminds her what a screw up she is and that she better not mess up Bridget’s chances in Finland…Delores Umbridge style. Then Hannah promptly drops and breaks her cup. So maybe Bridget is right.

The next morning after the girls check out, Hannah tells Ben she is not going to take the job. Peter creeps on this exchange from around the corner. And then she’s like, well okay BYE! We’ll get email addresses later.

Oh my gosh, Hannah’s mom’s house is GORG. And totally decorated for WINTER. Her mom knows something is up with her. Hannah tells her mom she is scared of screwing things up again. Her mom is like GURL get it together.

Meanwhile, back at the hotel, Ben catches up with Bridget who is setting up at a wedding. He offers her the Finland job. Bridget wonders if he really wants her there. He’s like, well not really, but I don’t really want to go through the hassle of interviewing anyone. Plus the girl I was trying to impress rejected the job and you’re the only warm body left. IRONIC choice of words for an ice hotel employee, I know.

Then everyone reads Peter’s review. It is GLOWING. Is that a pun too? I guess I just can’t help it.

Hannah finds out that she got the management job at the travel agency. And then Peter shows up? At Hannah’s work? WHY? From where? Since when is he so invested in her? He gives her the glass ice hotel. He tells her “safe travels.” But Ben already gave the job to Bridget!

Later, Bridget tells Ben she wants to stay at the current hotel and admits she scared Hannah off of the job. Then Hannah shows up and gives her speech. She’s like, yes I want to start a new romantic relationship and also be your employee! And then they kiss. So this is going to work out just fine.

Guys, my view of this movie is elevated because of the ice hotel moments. But otherwise, I find it unsurprising that this is a filler movie. It is full of nonsense. It is mostly fun nonsense though so I didn’t mind. I will say that I really do hate the trope of the two leads beginning both a romantic and work partnership as that would likely end in disaster. But it is what it is. What did you think?

A busy chaotic weekend almost made me miss “Hearts Down Under.” But have no fear, dear Hallmark friends. I watched it. Let’s get after it.

We begin with a very…unmodern cooking prep montage. Our lead, Caroline, is a no-nonsense, busy business woman chef. Her…mom? Or boss is wearing a GIGANTIC flower on her dress. I honestly don’t hate it. Caroline is also an extreme micromanager. She is prepping an engagement dessert and only she knows how to do it. She takes the plate from presumably her sous chef Molly and does it herself. PS the music is WILD. Like very 90s New York type show music. The whole staff creeps from behind a wall like they’ve never seen an engagement happen at a restaurant. Caroline is only bummed that the newly engaged woman didn’t appreciate the dessert after her boyfriend JUST proposed. She doesn’t have TIME for ROMANCE OKAY?

Oh, good. Caroline’s mom opens some random piece of mail to discover that Caroline has INHERITED a café in Australia from a long lost aunt. They didn’t even go to her funeral. She hasn’t seen her since she was 10. Her mom talks her in to making a trip down to check out the café. YOU GUYS. This aunt had no one to give this to? Or any plans to make sure that the café would be able to continue to operate after her death? Honestly.

Then, Nathaniel stops by. This is Caroline’s former fiancé. He makes some kind of snippy comment about the restaurant actually doing well. So now we get a back story. He wasn’t supportive earlier but now I guess he is because things are going so well for Caroline. He wants to get back together. She suggests they catch up when she gets back from Australia. He looks to be a solid decade older than her, or am I off? Also, what is that restaurant called? Labratorie? Does NOT sound appetizing.

Anyway, Caroline makes it to Australia. I guess her mom isn’t coming with her. She is greeted by a VERY GOOD PUP. She talks to the dog for a really long time. Then Simon, the owner of the house, creeps up from behind her and introduces himself. Caroline is vague about her intentions for being in Australia.

Guys this MUSIC. It is so wild. I hardly ever notice the music in these movies but I can’t handle this. Caroline pulls out a paper map but just then realizes that the café is right across the street. It is open and busy. None of the workers know who she is and she just wanders around surveying the place. She sits down and a waitress, Beth comes over to take her order. She keeps saying Australian slang like Caroline will finally understand what she’s talking about. Caroline essentially gets one of everything and takes notes. She doesn’t tell anyone what she’s up to. What’s the end game here? Caroline has notes on EVERYTHING. Simon walks up and she tells him all the problems with the menu items. Turns out, HE is the cook at this restaurant. So that is awkward.

Back at home, “Dale” arrives to talk to Caroline, presumably about the restaurant. He is maybe the executor of Doreen’s estate? Or manager of her finances? I’m not sure. Dale says that Caroline’s aunt Doreen talked about her ALL the time. How is that possible if they hadn’t seen each other in over 20 years ago? If that’s true, and Caroline and her mom couldn’t be bothered to ever see this woman in DECADES, what is going on.

Dale talks to her about potential buyers. Their best option is someone who wants to turn it into a race car themed restaurant. No talk about prices or anything. Dale gives her the run down of all the problems with the restaurant. It needs a new roof, namely. She seemingly needs to be there for all of that. I can’t imagine why.

She video chats her mom, who is dressed fabulously again. Caroline tells her about the buyer. She doesn’t see how she could run both restaurants. I mean, I guess that’s fair. Oh and Nathaniel is sniffing around again. Caroline tries to micromanage the restaurant from Australia.

Dale and Caroline stop by the restaurant to tell the staff about the sale. Dale seems to like the head server, Marla. She tells them that she is selling the place. Marla is like, do you really think Doreen would have wanted that? And honestly, Doreen probably should not have surprised Caroline with the burden of a restaurant in her WILL. It is not the gift Doreen thinks it is. Especially a relative who lives all the way across the world that she hasn’t spoken to about this at all.

Meanwhile the restaurant staff panics. Rightly so! Doreen and her family are kind of screwing over all of these people by not having a plan in place for this restaurant.

Caroline chats on the phone with a couple of bags of groceries. Simon happens to be swimming midday at the beach. He notices Caroline. Simon offers to show her some of Doreen’s recipes. Simon mentions Doreen’s dream. Guys. If her DREAM was for Caroline to move to Australia and take over this little café after not seeing her for over 20 years then Doreen is insane.

Anyway, Simon seems to know how to do ALL the repairs around the restaurant so he is going to do it. Why doesn’t he do it in exchange for owning the restaurant? He asks her to meet him at 4 AM the next day.

She shows up in her little chef’s outfit but Simon arrives with fishing poles. She gets to carry them now. They head to a boardwalk and Caroline has wisely ditched the chef’s outfit. It is now fully daylight and Simon has finally offered Caroline coffee. What is Caroline’s hounds tooth pant situation? Would you even want to cook in those?

Caroline catches a fish so she and Simon have a MOMENT while they try and reel it in. Caroline has caught…a HAT. How did that bend the rod like that? Caroline the good sport takes a picture of her first catch.

Well, those two bozos must have caught enough fish for the restaurant and they do some taste testing in the kitchen. Caroline messes with his seasoning. Marla thinks Simon is up to something to save the restaurant. He says he isn’t. BUT HE DEFINITELY IS RIGHT?

Caroline learns that Beth kind of likes to cook too. Them Simon realizes that Caroline has reorganized the kitchen a little. He isn’t super stoked about that. He lets Caroline know that all the repairs will be done by the end of the following week.

Later, and by later I mean MIDNIGHT, Caroline can’t sleep. She blames jet lag. But she’s been up since 4 so shouldn’t she just be tired enough to go to sleep at a normal Australia time? Maybe I don’t get how jet lag works. She digs into a casual plate of macarons on the counter.

Then Caroline decides to do some baking. And somehow BURNS a pan of bread. There is no smoke and yet the smoke alarm is going off. Very touchy apparently. Simon runs in to turn it off, which startles Caroline even more than the smoke alarm. Caroline is experimenting but nothing is working. Simon says sometimes less is more. I guess this time he’s right. I don’t really know what he did aside from dip a berry into a bowl of powdered sugar but I guess that settles that.

Simon is about to ask her something when Caroline’s mom calls to facetime. Doesn’t realize it’s 1 AM in Australia. This mom as per usual has NO CHILL. He shows up on facetime and introduces himself. The mom tells her that the inspection of her New York restaurant is next week. They apparently only have this one date next week or not until NEXT YEAR. What about the original date? Ugh. That makes no sense.

The next day, Caroline stumbles in to Simon baking her aunt’s bread recipe. She jumps in to help him. Caroline tells Simon that she has to go back to New York early so HE NEEDS TO START THE ROOF TODAY. Apparently some kids are coming to the restaurant that day too so Caroline makes them entirely TOO fancy of sandwiches. She’s serving KINDERGARTNERS lettuce, tomato and cheese sandwiches on WHEAT buns. What is she thinking.

She heads out to give Simon some iced tea and he asks what she’s doing later. Apparently it is restaurant related. I’m not so sure! Caroline hopes they’re not going fishing. Apparently they only had fish at the restaurant that one day.

Simon and Caroline take that little pup, “Spatch” on a walk. Glad he is getting more screen time. Simon has decided to take Caroline “clamming” but he uses the Australian word for it. Caroline tries raking or whatever and falls back and Simon catches her. WHAT A MOMENT. Then we learn that “Spatch” was Caroline’s Aunt Doreen’s. Simon took him when she died. Caroline asks Simon what he will do when the cafe is sold. Spatch lays down in the mud and whimpers. Simon doesn’t have a solid plan.

Then Simon shares an unconventional approach to clamming. Caroline gives it a try. I could never. SO MUCH MUD. I’m dying. Spatch couldn’t be happier. Oh good, now a splashing fight. Mud and water and splashing while wearing regular clothes. My nightmare.

Later, Beth tells Caroline the clams she made her a big hit. And then Simon asks Caroline on a date! Beth makes up an excuse about…washing her cat. I do love that. Why is everything Caroline wears straight out of the Babysitter’s Club movie?

Anyway, that night, Simon takes Caroline to his house boat, where he lives when he rents out the cottage. Which is apparently HIS OWN HOUSE. Is he really hurting for money? I mean, he has this boat. Why rent out his entire house?

Caroline shares how much she loves New York. They have a moment and I kind of tune out. They are about to kiss but Caroline pulls away. She doesn’t think this is a good idea. Well what was all this about then, Caroline!! He recovers quickly and asks if she wants ice cream. What a good sport.

They sneak into the restaurant to get some ice cream. But Marla overhears them and comes in. They pretend they are cooking and not looking for ice cream? I am not sure how that is any better. Marla and DALE are also hanging out watching a movie. So what’s up with that? Anyway, all that commotion has blown a fuse and now the whole breaker box has to be repaired? But we can’t call that one guy because his wife just had a baby. So they’ve got to figure something else out I guess.

The next morning, the Seagull is having a straight up backyard bbq. Caroline needs to blend her bronzer a teensy bit. Simon decides to repaint the restaurant’s sign right in the middle of where everyone is eating. Then Simon pitches letting the existing employees run the restaurant instead of selling. Honestly, like, why can’t she do that? Then Caroline and Simon argue over the flavors of meat pie. I think it will probably be gross, regardless.

Then Caroline rage cooks in the cottage kitchen while she vents to her mom.

Later, Marla, Dale, Caroline and Simon are all headed somewhere dressed very nicely. I think they are having a party. I don’t remember anyone mentioning the purpose of this party? Are they just having a party for the sake of having a party? Marla and Dale head off to dance. Caroline is holding a small basket of maybe 10 meat pies so like, who all is coming to this party? Caroline suggests they don’t talk about work and then Simon asks her to dance. I thought she said them dating was a bad idea? Also, need to point out this wild music again. Caroline hears it too and she says she loves the song.

At the dinner portion of the party, Beth gives the toast. She is wearing a very cute space-inspired dress. Caroline eagerly awaits Simon’s reaction to her meat pies. She does need to blend that bronzer a teensy bit again. Everyone else loves them. Simon agrees. He thinks Doreen would have liked them too. Later, Simon plates everyone’s cheesecake. What a disappointment. I mean, it’s fine. But I’m never just dying for cheesecake. Caroline realizes that Simon used her cheesecake recipe.

After all of that, everyone is just dancing and having a good time. Then a slow song comes on. Simon and Caroline slow dance. The music is SO LOUD. Just me? They are just staring at each other. Is it weird? I think it’s weird. Then Simon tells Caroline he made her something. It is a GIANT shell necklace. It is pretty I think but it’s also giant. It seems like they might kiss; like their noses are even touching. When NATHANIEL arrives.

THE BOYS! The BOYS are going to Bali so Nathaniel had the jet drop him off in Australia to talk to her. Dude what is this guy’s deal. He says he misses her. Then she says she misses him too. But does she? He seems like a giant tool. Somehow, Simon overhears this from outside! Like dude give her a minute to talk to this guy, sheesh. Anyway, he obviously only hears her say she misses him but doesn’t hear the rest of the speech. But he basically admits he wants to get back together because she has the trendiest restaurant in town. She’s like, girl bye. And he’s like, I don’t have anywhere to stay. That was a pretty presumptuous.

Caroline catches up with Simon outside. He doesn’t want to talk to her about any of it. Spatch decides he wants to stay with Caroline that night. What a good boy. Then Caroline looks through her aunt’s recipe book. This poor old woman saved newspaper clippings of Caroline, saved old photos…I mean, how sad? And neither Caroline or her mom see this woman in decades? Then Caroline appears to get an idea.

Caroline sprints down the stairs the next morning in the first cute shirt I’ve seen so far. She has finally decided to keep the restaurant and let the gang keep running it. Caroline overhears Marla talking about trying to trick her into keeping the restaurant. So then she comes in all huffy. She has now changed her mind and is selling the place. Caroline asks to get a walk through and then Marla locks Caroline and Simon in the pantry.

Guys, I am not a fan of these high waisted pants. Caroline gets mad at Simon for trying to trick her into keeping the place. But he wasn’t! Marla was but she did a terrible job. Oh great. Now they’re having a food fight. Oh I hate this. I hate food fights. They are going to make such a mess. Oh no. Not the flour. Ugh. It’s going to get everywhere.

Caroline gathers herself in the bathroom. Okay is she done with her little temper tantrum?

Caroline walks out and talks to the gang again. She tells them she isn’t going to sell. So there you go. Caroline tells Beth she wants to see a new dessert menu next month. I thought we kind of all agreed that Beth’s ideas were bad? I guess not. Then Marla apologizes for her mischief.

Then Caroline and Simon finally get to talk again. She apologizes to him. And then she’s like, okay well I guess I’ll see you later.

Caroline is back in New York. Caroline studies the prepared sample plates back at the restaurant with her mom and Molly. She tells poor Molly that everything is correct, but it’s all wrong! They need last minute specialty items and to rework the menu. Are we talking for THAT NIGHT? Or what?

Suddenly the kitchen is just TONS of fun. We have some truly wild music happening and even mom’s hair is a little looser. Then Caroline lets Molly plate the dessert with her! WOW. Big moment for Molly. Doing more smoke infused desserts. Honestly, so weird. Then they both peek at the reactions of the guests. Are these inspectors or critics? Why would they be inspecting the food? I don’t know what is going on here.

Later that night, Caroline and her mom split a tiny plate of food. Guys, I hate this restaurant. It looks like each plate is just a tiny slice of something with a bunch of inedible garnish on the edges. Oof I’d be so disappointed at this restaurant. Caroline’s mom tells her she is back mentally. So that’s good I Guess. As they prepare to dive into this tiny plate of weed scraps, she sees the clam shell necklace on the plate. Then Simon pops out! Always SO DRAMATIC. Honestly.

He is finally ready to tell her how he feels. So he gives her his speech. How will they make it work though?! He wants to keep going with his speech but they kiss instead!! WILD MUSIC again. The whole kitchen staff peeks from behind the curtain again. Then the picture of Caroline as a child and her aunt Doreen comes to life. So that’s weird. And also-no plan in place for making this relationship work. So yeah, I don’t see this working out.

Whew. Guys. I don’t know about this one. I really don’t. I liked parts of it. But dang there were some really dumb moments too. I think this had the potential to be a super cute destination movie but I just don’t think they quite pulled it off. What did you think?

Like many, I was anxiously anticipating this one. It is the only Hanukkah movie of the year and of course it stars BEN SAVAGE. However, after last weekend, I tried really hard to keep my expectations in check. So, did it meet my expectations for a Hallmark Hanukkah movie? Let’s find out.

Our lead, Christina is celebrating her first Christmas without her mom. Her friend, Janet tells her she looks just like her mom; even though she’s adopted. Her friend is very sweet to her. Christina is coping by doing tons of decorating and going all in on her mom’s recipes at her restaurant. Christina took over her mother’s Italian restaurant when she died.

While out grocery shopping, Christina tells Janet she wants some family and people to love for Christmas. I AM NOT CRYING YET. She is dreaming of having a big family because it was always just her and her mom. Then Christina tells Janet she took a DNA test to see what her heritage is. This conversation is interrupted by a phone call informing them is an emergency at the restaurant. There is a water leak and the restaurant is going to be closed for 2-3 weeks. Christina asks Eddy, the contractor to promise her that they’ll be back open in time for Christmas Eve.

Later, Christina eats dinner alone in her beautiful kitchen.

The next day, Christina reveals that she ended a “four year engagement?” With a phone call? What in the world? Anyway, she got her DNA test results back. She is 50% Jewish and 50% Italian. Her reaction is…underwhelming in my opinion.

Our lead is allegedly overwhelmed with learning about a new culture but so excited about meeting some new family. Oh I am really trying to keep it together. Then she immediately gets an email from a DNA match, Becky. This DNA match wants to meet her! Christina is nervous and afraid Becky won’t like her.

Christina meets Becky. They both agree that meeting is a big deal. Becky has been trying to meet DNA matches for a while but none of them have agreed. Well, okay. That’s a little suspicious, right? Why is she so eager to meet DNA relatives? Is she trying to commit a crime? Then Becky introduces Christina to her brother, Scott. They both own restaurants. Then BEN SAVAGE arrives. His name is David in this movie. David meets Christina. So David is a food critic. Becky and Scott try to get his opinion on new stuff they make at their restaurant. Christina recognizes his name because David actually wrote a review of her restaurant and said the food was “predictable.” So OOPS, David.

Scott has a couple of “fun” takes on latkes he wants David to try. While he’s trying the latkes, David looks over at Christina again. Scott’s restaurant is named “Lenny’s” after their dad, who died. So they have so much in common!! Then Becky invites Christina to brunch the next day so she can meet her mom and maybe fill in the blanks about how they’re related. That’s a normal thing to do with someone you just met and that might be related?

The next day, Becky and her mom talk about a collector’s dreidel. Then Becky drops the “Christina” news on her mom cold. Becky’s husband is not going to brunch because the kids have sports practices. Seems like a bad time to schedule family brunch!

Outside Christina arrives at the same time as David for brunch. David is staying with Becky’s family. Christina makes a little joke about cannolis. David promises not to tell her if they are predictable.

David says she couldn’t do better than this family for meeting online.

As everyone sits down to brunch, Christina spills about David’s review. Everyone kind of laughs about it. Silly David, not liking Christina’s food. Then David shares that he is on his way to Europe at the beginning of the year. David’s dad and Lenny were best friends. When Christina shares that she was adopted, Ruth gets really interested. She gives her a look and kind of zones out as Christina shares about the day she was born. So Ruth is definitely her mom. Scott asks Ruth what’s wrong. Then David asks. Ruth gets very quiet. Then she spills the beans. She was an exchange student in Italy and got married but got it annulled right afterwards. Then she found out she was pregnant when she got back to the United States.

Christina’s reaction is…underwhelming. But the siblings kind of freak out…as you would when you find out your mom had another child over thirty years ago! Despite how Christina is behaving, she tells everyone that this is too overwhelmed and decides to leave. She is not giving us ANYTHING here. Outside, she just sits in her car for a few minutes. David runs out to check on her and offers to drive her home. Okay, I just noticed that they have lights on their house. And then Ruth says, I don’t even know her but I already love her. SO NOBODY CRIES ABOUT THAT AT ALL.

The next day, Eddy and Janet check in on renovation progress. The friend invites Eddy to Christmas Eve dinner so OKAY. Then Christina tells Janet that she met her bio mom and half sister. Christina and her friend talk about it all. Her friend is so encouraging. I still find Christina’s reactions to everything very underwhelming. I don’t know what I’m expecting….but what I’m getting is not it. Her words say one thing…her face says…nothing.

Ruth and her kids talk too. Ruth tearfully gives them more information about her history before their dad. They wish she had told them sooner. But they are very understanding. And their reactions all seem appropriate!

Back at the restaurant, Christina doesn’t want to change anything because it all reminds her of her mom. Janet meets David. Everyone knows him now as the guy who didn’t like her lasagna. Christina is a little sassy with him. Or at least, I think she’s trying to be sassy. David says that Ruth was worried about her. Janet plays a GREAT wingman. She tells her to just “whip up” some lasagna for David. They eat at the bar 4 hours later. David tells her it’s really good. She tells him the review came out a few weeks after her mom died so I bet your feel REAL BAD NOW, DAVID. Christina learns a little about David and how he became a food critic. He says he’s going to write a book but he keeps getting distracted.

That day, Christina is having a statue placed in the courtyard to honor her mom. David says the nicest thing he did for his mom was a golf cart. But I think that’s nicer than anything I’ve given my mom.

Christina thanks David for stopping by. He encourages her to call Ruth. David is just hamming it up. And he is getting absolutely NOTHING BACK.

Later, Christina decides to call Ruth. They meet in person again. Ruth tells Christina about her father. Christina seems happy that he’s Italian because her mom is Italian. Ruth tried to contact him after she was pregnant but couldn’t because he was in the army. Ruth says she always wondered about her. Christina tells her she was happy and loved with her mom Sofia. NOBODY CRIES AT ALL. NOT ME, CERTAINLY. Then Ruth invites her to their first night of Hanukkah. Christina accepts. Well this is all VERY SWEET and I CAN’T HANDLE IT. Then ol David shows up. Christina excitedly tells him that she’s going to the first night of Hanukkah. He is excited about that as well. But neither of them move out of each other’s way. David continues saying goodbye in a bunch of different languages. He is just KILLING IT.

Christina packs up a little dessert for Hanukkah. She is greeted by everyone right at the door. Christina meets Phil and her nephew and niece Max and Molly. Aren’t they the most polite children? The brother’s fiancé is with her family in London. SURE JAN.

So then they all explain Hanukkah to her. They sing a song before they light the first candle. Phil gives David some unsolicited life advice. I am sure it’s very appreciated. Eyeroll. Oh, Phil is a real estate agent so he’s just trying to sell houses. The kids give Christina some Hanukkah information as well. Then Ruth tells Christina about her dreidel collection and explains what the marking on the dreidel mean. Then they look at a photo album. Then Christina invites them to her house for the last night of Hanukkah.

The next day, Christina wears a lovely sweater. David stops by her restaurant and says he thought of her while he was outlining his new book. He suggests she try some kind of artichoke dish but she totally freaks out. She apologizes because she just said everything in the restaurant just reminds her of her mom. Then she invites him to go with her to get a Christmas tree.

They haul the tree back to her house. He comments on her lawn ornaments. Inside, David doesn’t recognize the music playing. He is not familiar with the musician. I actually am not either. Lee Monty?

The next day, Ruth and Becky are out shopping and wonder what they should get for Christina…and for Hanukkah or Christmas. Then Ruth and Becky gossip a little about Christina and David.

Christina and David go to a very Christmas-y store. Christina wants to buy more Christmas decorations. They must be at an indoor market thing. They go to a Chinese stand to eat lunch. David says he knows how to make kugel and he usually makes them with his dad. Christina says she doesn’t know anything about her dad. They read their fortunes and decide to switch. Then David says he likes that their futures overlap. Well he is just trying SO HARD. And truly getting nothing back.

Ruth pulls David aside later to DEFINITELY NOT MEDDLE like she promised. Oh, she asks David what she should get her for a gift. And also his intentions. David suggests something related to her dad. Ruth seems excited about helping her connect with her dad.

Christina and Janet walk and shop on the same street as Becky and Ruth did earlier. Christina wants to get her new family really great presents. She struggles with wanting to get perfect gifts.

Later, David goes to Christina’s house and makes “noodle kugel.” He says that kugel is actually popular in Italy too. Then he tells her about his book. Christina gives him some good advice about his book. Then David has a surprise for her. She walks with her arm in his. He takes her to the city Menorah lighting. Is that a thing? I mean, you can’t have a Hallmark movie without some kind of public illumination event. David pushes his way to the front where the rest of the family is. Look at all those people just packed into that place, touching each other and not wearing masks. What a wonderful magic land that would be! Not for me though, obviously. I didn’t like those types of activities BEFORE COVID. Anyway, they invite her to brunch the next day. Dang Hallmark is obsessed with brunch. Also, the whole family is excited about David and Christina! ME TOO.

The next morning, the whole gang builds a snowman. Becky tells Christina how they keep their dad alive-through sports stuff. Christina says she feels the same way doing things for her mom. Then Christina says, this must be what it’s like to have a sister. AND NO ONE CRIES ABOUT THAT EITHER OKAY.

Outside, David wants to take a family picture with Ruth and all her kids. Christina tries to walk out. But they all force her to stay. Then David takes one with just Ruth and Christina. So that’s nice.

David helps Christina decorate her restaurant Christmas tree. Wow that is a big tree. And then the power goes out. It is apparently out all over the city. Then, they hold hands in the dark. David teases that she made the power go out to hold his hand. Then they have a lovely dinner with a bunch of candles. Then they chit chat and get to know each other. David says he loves to travel. And he doesn’t want a typical 9-5 job. Oh, so maybe this relationship wouldn’t work out. WE WILL JUST SEE, WON’T WE?

The next day, I think Christina makes latkes with Ruth. She says she wanted to make them together. NOBODY CRIES EVERYONE IS JUST IMPACTED BY THE ONIONS THEY’RE CHOPPING.

David tells Becky and Scott that he was able to track down Georgio, her dad. Later, David gives Ruth Georgio’s number. Ruth decides to call Georgio. Wow she doesn’t even need to take 3 days to psych herself up or anything. GEORGIO ANSWERS. He seems happy to hear from her. She finally spills the beans. This poor man.

Christina and David decorate ANOTHER Christmas tree. She puts the topper on the tree and David helps her down the ladder.

Later Janet and Christina go grocery shopping. Christina is stressing about all the meals she has to prepare. Janet gives her some SPOT ON GOOD FRIEND advice. Then Christina gives herself some good advice, thinking that Janet would say it anyway.

Later, David stops by with a gift. He gives her an Italian menorah for the following evening when she will host the last night of Hanukkah. I notice that she already has two light up menorah’s on her mantle so that’s cute. And a Happy Hanukkah banner too. Then David tries to teach her the prayer.

The next night the whole family is there and make noises when she says David got her the menorah. Then she leads them in the prayer/song and lights the candles. Phil has to take their kids to his parents for dessert. Becky says the latkes? or the donuts? Not sure, anyway they’re as good as Ruth’s! Then Christina says she found the right family.

Then it is gift opening time. She got the kids personalized jerseys and tickets to a Cavalier’s game. Christina got Scott a signed baseball from his favorite baseball player. Well dang Christina is a good gift giver. She gave David the special bottle of wine that he got from his parents. And he asks if she wants to open it with him in 21 years!! Her reaction is so cute. And then she gives Ruth a lovely dreidel.

Now it’s Becky’s turn to open gifts. They got her framed pictures of her new family. So that is just so sweet. Oh and then one of her dad in his military uniform. Then Becky asks what he was like. She lines up all her new pictures on her coffee table. Then Ruth gives her his phone number. SO NOBODY IS CRYING OR WHATEVER THIS IS DUMB. Then Christina invites them all to her restaurant for Christmas Eve.

At the restaurant, Ruth stares at a recipe from a recipe box. She and Janet have a nice heart to heart about all the things she’s feeling. And Christina says she really likes David. So she is feeling overwhelmed. Also I think someone should fire Christina’s make up artist because her eyebrows do not look even at all.

David stops by the restaurant. He invites her to do something fun that night. She says she’s too busy. She kind of barfs up all her feelings to him. She says she’s not ready. Her heart can’t keep up with all the changes right now. He is understanding. BUT I’M NOT.

Ruth and David have some kind of hot beverage on her front porch. David says he and Christina aren’t going to be seeing each other anymore. Ruth is like, you idiot. She’s just scared. PS, they’re drinking tea if you were still wondering. Ruth says that Christina might be “the one” for him. Ruth gives him really good advice! She tells him to just be her friend and give her time. I actually think that’s great.

Later, Christina and her crazy eyebrows tell Janet that David asked her out and she said no. Maybe it was for the best. NO. IT IS NOT.

Christina stares somberly at the photo of her and David on her mantle. David shows up at her house! He forgot to say something earlier. He needs her to know how much she matters to him. He says he’ll be back in six weeks and then he’s going to buy a house and write his book. He wants to be wherever she is! And then they kiss! She says this holiday is turning out really well. And that makes me tear up a little because she originally thought this would be a really sad and lonely one.

Then Christina calls Ruth and asks for some help to call her father for the first time. He is just waiting by the phone for her call. OKAY NOBODY IS CRYING. He invites her to Italy. She agrees to go. Maybe she should go with David?

Then it’s Christmas Eve dinner time. She tells David about her call with her dad! Then Christina gives a speech. And then David and Christina just KISS in front of everyone! Sheesh. And again! Geez Louise.

Well, so this was pretty cute. I normally don’t like to criticize acting because, who am I? But I felt like some of Christina’s reactions just did not line up with what was happening around her. I don’t really know what was going on but like, when Ruth says she’s her mother…I don’t know…her reactions and face just didn’t seem to line up with the words she was saying. But, overall, I liked this movie! I would love to see more Hanukkah movies thrown in the mix next year. What did you think?

So here was the version of this movie everyone was asking for…Right? Time for US to come home? Except none of the people in this movie actually went home for Christmas. Are we going to do this again next year? Time for THEM? For those guys over there? To come home? Or are we done? (Sigh.) Let’s dive in.

Sarah, our lead, shares some good news about the outcome of a lawsuit with a store owner. Maybe he’s a tree lot owner. I’m not sure. It sounds like Sarah’s mom died recently and this was her case. The tree lot owner is so pleased, he just hands her a Christmas tree. THANKS! How is she going to get that home now?

Miraculously, she made it home with that tree. She chats won the phone her boss and telling him about her progress tying up all her mom’s loose ends. She has a little bit left to do before she heads back to Seattle. She tells him she is going to be all alone for Christmas this year. Walter is like okay that’s sad. But the firm is sending her a little something! Then she gets something in the mail. It is an invitation to spend Christmas at the Snowfall Inn.

Sarah decides to head to the Inn. She thinks it’s from her boss which honestly solves my main outstanding question from the preview. Why would you accept a stay at a hotel if you didn’t know who sent you. She runs into another woman outside. Her name is Karen. The Snowfall Inn is VERY LOVELY. The front desk manager asks Sarah if she’s stayed there before. She says Sarah looks very familiar. Nope! Or maybe yes? MYSTERY. Okay Sarah’s ROOM. Giant French doors and a Christmas tree.

Sarah runs into a little girl in the lobby that wants to hear the clock chime. Sarah moves the time up so the clock will chime. Then the Inn owner, Ben introduces himself. He gives her A Christmas Carol to read. She counts watching “A Muppet Christmas Carol” as reading the book. Ben book shames her for that.

Then Ben’s sister, Bess (yes, that is the name they gave her) arrives at the Inn. Ben is a busy Inn boy. They seem stoked to be roommates at the Inn. Look, I would…not be. Sarah meets Jasper? I think. He has a bunch of instruments. He says the trip is a gift from his wife. She must be dead.

Ben talks to Bess about…I don’t know, a Christmas party? He says buying the Inn is the best decision he made. He needed a change. Bess asks if he’s going to make gingerbread cookies with peppermint icing. I nearly spit out the chocolate peppermint cookie I’m eating to say “gross!” Because that sounds awful.

Ben slurps his soup in the lobby and realizes he’s grossing Sarah out. Sarah is sitting at the counter reading A Christmas Carol because that is the most comfortable place to read a book. Ben asks why she came to town. He invites her to participate in some of the Inn’s Christmas events. Sarah shares that her mom has the same ornament tradition as the Inn. Ben says he and his family used to come to the Snowfall Inn every year. So when it came up for sale, he just had to buy it.

Jasper plays guitar in his room and looks at a picture of his wife.

Sarah gets a voicemail from her boss. He’s like, no we got you a buy one appetizer get one half off coupon to Applebee’s. We would definitely not get you a multi night stay at a Christmas Inn. So Sarah heads down to the front desk to ask who made her reservation. So now we have a “And Then There Were None” situation. So Sarah must have been responsible for someone’s death and now it must be avenged…AT CHRISTMAS. Or a Secret Santa; what Ben said.

The next morning, Sarah remains unconcerned about who spent hundreds of dollars on her. She makes ornaments with Karen, who shares that she got divorced earlier this year. Ben arrives with some gold glitter. Karen says she stayed at the Inn thirty years ago. MORE MYSTERY?

Another guy, Owen arrives at the hotel with his daughter, Cassidy. He asks her if she thinks the hotel is LIT? She is not amused. He is stoked about the snow because he grew up around here. Cassidy seems a little down. Her mom must have died.

“Frenchie” arrives to chat with Ben at the front desk. She used to own the Inn and she sold it to Ben. She seems to be doing well for herself. The ancient cash register is jammed. Frenchie fixes it. She also brings Ben an old angel tree topper. Thank you…Ben says awkwardly.

Ben brings some extra blankets up to Jasper. He talks to Ben about his wife. He got the same invitation that Sarah did! Ben tells Sarah. Ben tells Sarah there is an Inn wide field trip to a Christmas Tree Farm where she can chat with Jasper. Jasper is sure that his wife made his hotel arrangements even though their cards are the same.

They go to a massive tree farm. The Inn guests have a lovely time. They’re pounding s’mores and laughing by the fire. That poor dad is trying so hard to connect with his daughter. She is texting with her friends. Her dad gets them hot chocolate.

Bess is ready for Ben to GET BACK OUT THERE. They take empty cups away from the hot chocolate stand. Cassie’s dad overhears her talking to her mom. She says she wishes she was with her mom. But her mom encourages her to have a good time with her dad. So she’s NOT DEAD.

Sarah makes suggestions for which tree Ben should get for the Inn. He tells her he used to be in finance. Then Sarah tells Ben she is a lawyer just like her mom. She planned to work with her mom but she took a job at a big firm in Seattle.

Sarah apologizes to Jasper. He apologizes too. He felt like his wife was still with him and that she planned this for him. So that is sad. Karen notices the card in Sarah and Jasper’s hand. She got one too! She thought she won a sweepstakes because she gives her personal info to anyone who asks for it apparently. Karen is not concerned about her identity getting stolen apparently. Also, who did all of these people murder, I wonder? Karen is still eating cookies by the time they get back to the Inn to investigate. Then another guy shows up. Ted. Karen seems to recognize him.

Sarah asks Karen how she knows Ted. They used to date in college! They got snowed in AT THIS LODGE. She thought they were going to get married but he got a job where he travelled ALL the time so it didn’t work. Karen thinks their time has passed.

Ben catches up with Sarah. He went through the last three months of reservations. There is one other mystery guest. Owen and Cassidy of course! Owen thought his brother got it for them. Sarah tries to help him connect with his teen daughter. Sarah suggests he just ask his daughter what she wants to do. PROBLEM SOLVED.

Sarah runs Bess. It still makes me angry that her name is Bess. Are parents really doing “Ben and Bess?” Then Sarah helps Bess decorate the tree.

Karen does some shopping in town and sees Ted holding a dog. She smiles but turns around and walks the other way. So what was that all about? WE NEVER KNOW.

Sarah and Ben play chess later. Sarah asks why he’s still at the Inn? Like instead of at home. Ben says he was engaged but she called it off. Sarah and Ben look at all the pictures in the hallway. There are lots of Ben and Bess as kids. Then Sarah sees a photo of HER MOM! And she is pregnant with Sarah presumably.

They sit outside by the fire and Sarah is not wearing a jacket. She is so shocked that her mom’s picture is on the wall. Ben offers to make her some tea inside. She opts to sit outside with no coat instead. He puts his gloves on her. That’s plenty!

Owen shows Sarah his identical invite. Sarah heads to the post office in town. She sees Ben. Sarah thanks him for the night before. Sarah notices the postmark in the postal shop is the same one on all the letters. So they were definitely mailed in town. Is that a thing? Ben is picking up boxes of lights for the tree lighting…but they look like presents…not light boxes.

Cassie stumbles through the piano in the lobby. Jasper stops by and helps her a little. Cassie says she’s been trying to teach herself to play. Jasper sings along. Owen is so happy that Cassie seems happy. He asks Jasper to give her lessons. Jasper thinks Cassie should teach Owen instead.

Later everyone helps decorate the tree. Ben gets cranberries for Sarah because she mentioned cranberries one time. Sarah shows Ben the ornament she made. It’s a cat for one of her mom’s cases she helped wrap up. Then Lacey starts singing a song. Then Jasper joins in. BECAUSE HE WROTE IT. The Inn has one of Jasper’s Christmas albums too! MYSTERY.

The next morning, Ted and Karen both reach for the coffee at the same time. Ted also got a mystery invite. OH TED AND KAREN are so cute. She invites him to the tree lighting that night.

Ben shovels the driveway. He doesn’t want Bess’s help. Bess is like, dude this Inn is hemorrhaging money. You are buying Christmas lights the most inefficient way possible. When are you going to give this all up?

Sarah wanders around the Inn looking for more pictures of her mom. That Christmas album was released the same year her mom was at the Inn. They go to look for more pictures. Sarah tells Ben about her mom. Sarah said she never missed a Christmas with her mom, until last year. She was just too busy with work that year. But then her mom died. Then they discover a group photo. Sarah and her parents, Jasper’s wife and Ted and Karen were all there. And baby Owen is in the picture too! For some reason, Sarah makes Jasper look at the picture outside. Jasper says he met Sarah’s parents! They drove his wife to him. Oh and his wife’s name was Sarah. So they named her after Jasper’s wife. That is really cute.

Karen recognizes the last person in the picture. Peter something. She can’t remember his last name. Then Karen takes Sarah shopping for a dress for the Christmas party. Karen tells her how things are going with Ted. Sarah finds a cute dress and makes it clear she doesn’t want to look nice for Ben. Karen asks if Sarah saw Ben in that sweater… WHICH ONE KAREN!!! Sarah says she has to go back to Seattle after Christmas so nothing’s happening.

At the Inn, Owen has a surprise for Cassie…Cassidy? He got a room set up for Cassie and her dad to play some music together. He says he wants to be part of something she loves. Oh cute. They play a little song together.

Karen and Ted catch up as they walk to the tree lighting. Ben and Sarah walk to the tree lighting. He complains that his gingerbread order fell through. Hmmm.. Sarah may know a thing or two about baking large quantities of gingerbread cookies. They all have a lovely time at the tree lighting. Sarah suggests looking at the books from 1984. They find Peter Sanderson and do a quick Quandary check. Ben remembers June Sanderson owns a bakery in town. Ben can’t go with her. He’s too busy.

Jasper films Cassie and Owen playing music together. So that is super cute. Owen asks Jasper to play with them at the Christmas party. But Jasper isn’t ready to perform again. At the bakery, one of the workers says Peter is her uncle. He will definitely be at the party. Karen does not care who paid for her entire week’s stay at the Inn.

Ben arrives into the kitchen to see all the guests making gingerbread cookies. Of course, Karen has a great gingerbread recipe. I figured this would call back to Sarah saying she baked gingerbread cookies for the whole neighborhood as a kid. They do not. This looks ALOT different than when my boys help make gingerbread cookies. Then they all have to get ready for the party.

It’s Christmas party time. Sarah and Ben have a nice moment dancing. Ben says he’s been thinking a lot about “us.” And then she sees Peter Sanderson. She asks him about the invitations. He got one too but he had to decline. Then he’s like OKAY BYE. So that all amounts to nothing. Sarah is pretty upset about all this. Literally no one else seems to care. Ben tells her how grateful he is that she’s there though. Sarah is like, thanks! But I’m leaving. She can’t leave her job Ben! She can’t make a living helping people in NYC for no money. Karen steps in to comfort Sarah.

Then Karen sees Frenchie, the old Inn owner. Sarah just wanders over to her. Frenchie decides to share what she did. She talks about the Inn that night in 1984. The Inn hadn’t had any guests in weeks and then all these people arrived because of the weather. So that night changed her life! Frenchie wanted to recreate some magic for Ben by inviting family of the same people. This whole reveal…I’m like, coming to terms with how all this actually went down and well… I don’t know what to say. I’m, disappointed? I’m confused? I HAVE REMAINING QUESTIONS. But I don’t care enough to ask them. Frenchie tells Sarah’s mom started the ornament tradition at the Inn! Frenchie tells Sarah that she stayed in touch with her mom.

Karen and Ted dance at the party. Ted keeps telling Karen how lovely she looks. Ted tells Karen that he’s been thinking a lot about her lately! He wants to have a second chance with her! Then Ben gives a speech and introduces Owen and Cassie. Cassie tries to coax Jasper up on stage. He decides to do it. Owen practically pees his pants in relief. So they all seem to know this Christmas song I’ve never heard of. Jasper totally saves poor Cassidy and Owen who are basically brand new to their instruments. So, good job Jasper.

Bess and Ben have a nice sibling moment. Ben says he talked to Sarah and it didn’t go well. Sarah finds Ben outside. He immediately gives her his coat. Also, I don’t like that. I don’t want to wear someone’s coat that’s too big for me. So then Sarah gives him a little speech. Then they head inside and then THEY KISS. So wait, what’s her plan? Is she going to quit her job in Seattle? Is she going to kind of just step in and take her mom’s old clients or firm? Oof I don’t care.

Okay so we are basically 0 for 2 this weekend. Nobody came home for Christmas. So there’s one problem. “US” is a bunch of people who don’t know each other. Can we be done with this? And also, can we have some actual compelling mysteries? Would a Christmas murder mystery be so bad? Would a Christmas remake of “And Then There Were None” be so bad? Come on you guys! Anyway, that’s that. Let’s rate it I guess. Only 3/20 unless I forgot something?

1. Christmas Tree Lighting
2. Christmas Baking
3. Christmas puns

Okay so Christmas in Evergreen PART 4. This is actually the story I wanted more of last year. So, I’m very pleased about this. I liked the first movie. I liked the second movie. I did not care for the third movie at all. So, here we are. Let’s get into it.

Hannah is narrating and gives a quick background of the last three movies. I don’t actually think you need to watch them to watch this one. Hannah is wearing a great sweater. She and Elliot are running a cute little store-Turner Tinker Shop. Apparently business is BOOMING. People are clamoring for Elliot to fix their crappy old toys. Or, what does he do there? Hannah encourages Elliot to change the name; since it’s her parents’ name. Hannah reluctantly leaves Elliot at the shop to go to the Inn. Hannah runs into NOT SANTA, Nick. Nick turns into the rabbit from Alice in Wonderland as he looks at his pocket watch and then he scampers off.

Hannah heads to Kringles and meets with Carol and Michelle. Michelle is wedding planning. She and Thomas are planning a small wedding on the 23rd. Michelle is concerned about her dad getting there though. Michelle shares that she’s looking to hire a manager for the Evergreen Christmas Museum.

Hannah books it over to the Inn finally. The Inn is FULL because of that Christmas museum. Sure, Jan. Hannah gets her Christmas bonus from the Inn owner. She works about 5 different jobs it seems. Elliot is also at the Inn decorating. He seems up to something. Elliot asks Hannah about the tinker shop. He seems very focused on the future…of the tinker shop. Then Ezra, the former mayor, returns for Christmas and the wedding. Things have not worked out very well for Ezra since he stepped down as mayor, unfortunately. Then Ezra spills that Elliot applied for money to open a second shop…in Boston. Elliot has big career dreams. Hannah does not seem to be on board.

Outside, Hannah runs into Allie. Allie has a big reunion with everyone in the street, Michelle, her parents….you know, the whole gang! Though I wonder if she and Michelle actually filmed that scene together.

That night the town has choir practice. Hannah spills all her purse contents on the ground. She asks Carol how the town views her. Carol tells her she does too much though. Hannah says “yes” to everything. So Hannah is just like her mom. Hannah starts leading practice. They are terrible, for real.

Then Hannah wanders into the very narrow building that is supposed to be the town Christmas museum. She looks at some old photos as Michelle approaches. So the town used “all that money” from last year to…BUILD A CHRISTMAS MUSEUM?! NO. NO! What a waste! Seriously that is so dumb.

Anyway, Michelle and Hannah talk about all the buzz the town is getting for how they do Christmas. Then, Michelle asks if Hannah knows anyone to run the Christmas museum.

Then Hannah tells Elliot that she decided to start managing the Christmas Museum. Hannah thinks she can make her mark on the town through the museum. They are both very excited about everything happening in their lives.

The next day, Michelle and Hannah walk through the museum and talk strategy. Elliot shows up and gets involved. HE HAS SO MANY TRINKETS to sell at the museum. They talk about the creepy photo at the entrance of the museum. Then Michelle’s sister Sonya arrives. She’s great.

Sonya dares to ask if Kringles has anything besides gingerbread. I mean. WHAT. Sonya doesn’t like the candy cane in her hot chocolate either. Sonya then tries to talk Michelle into making a bigger deal about her wedding. Michelle is frustrated that her dad won’t commit to his travel plans.

That night, Hannah stops by the Cooper sisters’ house to pick up some music. They are twins. But I don’t remember them from the other movies.

Hannah arrives at Elliot’s…LATE. She is just SO BUSY ALL THE DANG TIME. Well they are very cute. Wait, they’re making their gingerbread house before eating dinner? That bums me out.

The next day, Hannah and Elliot pick up a tree. Michelle and Sonya are there…Sonya seems to find the tree lot owner interesting. Michelle says they are having their rehearsal dinner at the tree farm.

At the museum, Elliot and Hannah take the creepy old photo down. They think about maybe having the town mural painted there instead. Then a guy shows up to the museum and is like…what are you doing to this old hat factory! And where are the Cooper sisters!

Then Michelle talks to Thomas. He actually might not make it for their wedding. Then Michelle asks Sonya what is going on with their dad. Michelle threatens her sister with glitter and wrapping paper to figure out what is going on. Well, he and Sonya had a small falling out I guess.

Then, that guy shows up at the INN. His name is Jeb Cooper. He is the Cooper sisters’ brother and he is very angry about them giving up the hat factory to turn it into a museum. He is a big old grouch. Dude I am also angry they spent all that money on a CHRISTMAS museum.

Hannah runs into Carol outside. She is giving the Cooper sisters her cookbook. Elliot points out that he and Hannah met right outside. Then Elliot throws a snow ball at her. A SNOWBALL FIGHT ensues. Then they build snow angels.

Carol reminisces about the hand bell choir and piano lessons with the Cooper sisters.

Then Hannah and Elliot make cookies with…everyone; with a subtle Nestle ad. And then Hannah feeds a piece of a cookie to Elliot and that just bums me out. Elliot gets a phone call and then leaves briefly. Elliot got the money! Hannah puts on a brave face and then heads to the museum.

Then Thomas calls Michelle. He is trapped at the logging farm. So he is going to miss the rehearsal.

Elliot shows up at the museum to talk about all his ideas for the new store in Boston. And he came up with a great new name! Elliot wants Hannah to join him in Boston. She really wants to stay in Evergreen. Then Jeb Cooper shows up. He is still his angry grouchy self and says he owns 1/3rd of the building and didn’t give his permission to give the building to the town.

The next morning, Elliot shows up at Hannah’s house. She is stress knitting. Elliot has something urgent to talk about but is interrupted.

Hannah talks to Michelle and Sonya about all the DRAMA. Sonya says this town has some very unique sadness. And that makes me laugh out loud. Hannah says she’s loved working on the Christmas museum all by herself. Then Michelle’s dad shows up. So, Michelle’s dad has brought…BEA. Sonya doesn’t seem happy about their dad having a girlfriend.

Hannah chases down Carol. She asks Carol to take over the choir. Carol accepts. She’s very excited to take it over!

Thomas has only bad news to share with Michelle. He doesn’t think he can get out even by Christmas. Michelle is incredibly patient.

At the museum, Elliot is ready to have a heart to heart with Hannah. Hannah really doesn’t want to leave Evergreen. He thinks she needs to get out of the town. She wonders if they want different things. She wonders if they should spend some time apart to think about what they want. What are you going to do Hannah? Run this museum that’s completely subsidized by the taxpayers of Evergreen and visited by no one? Make maybe $8/hour?

At home, Hannah reminisces about all her memories with Elliot. She wakes up to her sweet little nephew making her some coffee.

Later, Hannah runs into Elliot at Kringles. It’s kind of awkward. She sees Sonya and her dad. They seem to be getting along. But then Sonya says that Christmas has not been her and her dad’s “thing.” The town nearly murders them.

Michelle arrives and wonders if they should just have the party for her wedding anyway. Sonya is just all on board with all of this all of a sudden. Then Hannah runs into grouchy mc grouchster and invites him to the party. He is like, hey quit being so nice. It’s not going to change anything. She stays the course. He’s upset that the hat factory closed and there’s no industry in Evergreen. Well, Christmas is the industry now Chief!

Outside, Sonya doesn’t know the words to the 12 Days of Christmas. It for real makes me laugh out loud.

We see a couple weird cuts of Hannah and Elliot before it’s time for choir practice. Carol wants to add bells to their performance. Everyone is on board.

It’s time for the Christmas party at the tree farm. Carol asks Hannah what’s going on. Hannah asks to talk about it later. Oh wait, maybe this is not the party. This is a wreath making party. Poor Michelle finally breaks down. Oh geez she is pushing the wedding back an entire year. Then a snowball fight breaks out. ANOTHER ONE? The tree lot owner and Sonya have a MOMENT. Elliot and Hannah team up. They are having a great time. They forget they’re taking time apart.

Hannah and David do interviews of the town. I think this is for some audio visual presentation for the museum. They end by interviewing the Cooper sisters. David suggests surprising Jeb Cooper. She gets inspired when David puts on his hat.

She decides to stop by the tinker store to see how the mural is going. Hannah loves it. Elliot asks Hannah to go to Michelle and Thomas’s wedding whenever it is, whatever they are.

Hannah runs into grouchy grouch again and he needs to make sure the museum is up to his standard. Hannah has a surprise!

Sonya complains to Michelle about “It’s a Wonderful Life.” Then Sonya asks Michelle to try on her wedding dress. She refuses but Sonya says they should all get dressed up for dinner. She has SOMETHING UP HER SLEEVE. The choir people all show up with decorations. So, Michelle’s idea of getting dressed up for dinner is much different than mine. I would have put on black jeans. She is dressed up like she’s going to the prom. David is playing the piano in a little suit and tie. Then David tells her he has one more surprise. Thomas is on Zoom outside. Thomas gives her a sneak peak of his wedding vows. Oof. This is rough.

Hannah walks into the beautifully decorated church. Elliot is playing the piano and invites her to sit down. She starts playing with him. Then they KISS. Hannah says she doesn’t want to do long distance. Elliot is worried they really do want different thing. Hannah says a good friend wouldn’t stand in his way. HANNAH JUST GO TO BOSTON THOUGH FOR REAL.

At Kringles the next day. Allie throws some keys at Hannah. Allie wonders if Mr. Cooper will be convinced by all of Hannah’s shenanigans. Carol offers her cherry strudel to sweeten the pot. Hannah decides to make another wish on the snow globe. Outside she runs into NICK. Who is NOT SANTA. He gives her some regular NOT SANTA person advice.

At Michelle’s house, poor Bea tries to invite Michelle and Sonya to do things together. Sonya shuts her down HARD.

Hannah meets Mr. Cooper at the Christmas Festival. He has ONE HOUR HANNAH.

Michelle catches Sonya watching It’s a Wonderful Life again. Michelle wonders if Sonya is being to rough on Bea. Sonya knows she’s being childish. Michelle give Sonya some good sister advice. Then Bea joins Sonya on the couch with the SAME ISSUES with the movie.

Elliot arrives at his store to see a hand panted sign with the new store name from Hannah. Then he puts a gift in a box I think.

At the museum, Hannah excitedly shows Mr. Cooper the hat display she made. HE HATES IT. Jeb kind of gets way personal with Hannah. Hannah kind of gives him a talking to. She tells him what he NEEDS TO HEAR. It doesn’t work. Wow he is a very irrational lunatic. No wonder the business went under while he was at the helm. Elliot just misses Hannah as she leaves with Jeb to take him to the train station.

The fancy red truck dies on their way to the train station. Santa arrives but Jeb doesn’t think they need help. He thinks he can fix the truck himself. He says he will go back to the museum to get some tools. When he goes back, his sisters’ interview is playing on a screen inside. THAT seems to grow grinchy Jeb’s heart three sizes.

Hannah and Santa have a heart to heart while they wait for Jeb. Then the Cooper sisters arrive. Jeb walks back basically a completely different person. The siblings hug. Santa hands Hannah the contract for the building that he just happens to have because Jeb is ready to sign. He lets the town keep the admission fees and the gift shop proceeds. Then Santa disappears.

Everyone hangs out at the Christmas museum that night. It is very cute but honestly is this idea sustainable? There are just so many better ways to invest that money right? Like tax cuts or some kind of scholarship fund for kids? Anyway, Jeb is now leading tours to uninterested children.

Allie and Zoe have some news for her parents! Allie is having a baby! Yay. I assume it’s for the camera because Allie looks straight ahead the whole time. Hannah finds the present Elliot made for her and heads to the gazebo to open it. It’s a ceramic glove holding a snowball. Then Elliot arrives and gives her a little speech about how he loves her. Elliot says he’s going to keep the flagship store in Evergreen and Ezra is going to take care of the store in Boston so…THAT ALL WORKED OUT. He asks Hannah if they can try this again…and also MARRY HIM?! WHAT? He’s really not going to propose? Then they give an interview for the museum? That’s what they’re doing right? Then they all have Christmas dinner. Tree lot owner is there, sitting next to Sonya. OKAY FOR REAL. He really didn’t propose? OKAY THAT’S IT.

I am pretty upset about how this all went down. I have to assume that Covid ruined the plans to make this a wedding centric edition of this line of movies. I mean, Thomas was on video chat the whole time so that might explain a lot. However, it does not explain why Elliot didn’t PROPOSE at the end of this movie?! Like, why not? Are we going to have to wait another year for this proposal? Or are we just not going to get to see that? I waited all year to hear what these two got up to for heaven’s sake. But also, I do think we are probably GOOD on Evergreen Christmas movies. Let’s just let these people be probably? Can we all agree? Anyway, since this is 4 in a series and not focusing on a new relationship, it just is not going to have the typical Hallmark tropes so I’m not going to rate it against the checklist. So that’s that!

I was really looking forward to this movie. And well, it did not disappoint. I am not going to have many notes. However, I found myself scratching my head numerous times at the notion of basing an entire festival around cranberries. Do we really want a week of only cranberry desserts? Are we really putting cranberry syrup in our coffee? Is that something we should be getting excited about? I’m not sure it’s enough to drive an entire Christmas festival with its own Tree Lighting and Christmas Dance. So, let’s get after it.

My husband planned to watch at least part of this movie. But, as the opening credits began, he announced that he already hated this movie and left the room.

Nikki Deloach is rocking bangs and I begin to wonder if bangs are back in? My sister texts me an old picture of me in bangs to remind me that, no, bangs are not back for me. But they sure work for Nikki, so you do you girlfriend. Her character, Dawn, is on an…Oprah (?) maybe Martha Stewart type show with a woman named Pam. They fight over who deserves to be crowned “Queen of Christmas.” Nobody wins. She is talking about Christmas crafting, her company Cranberry Lane, and her husband Gabe. Gabe isn’t there because he’s so busy at the farm and also, he doesn’t want to.

He IS watching it on TV though! His dad catches him and he pretends like he wasn’t watching. We get a little preview of their marriage trouble. Gabe really likes farming cranberries and Dawn likes capitalizing on the cutesy name to build a Home and Lifestyle brand. They decided to take time apart these past few months to see what they both want.

After the show, Dawn arrives at her sister’s house. We get a little background on the sister-she’s trying to date but keeps cancelling. I missed the backstory here so I don’t know if she’s divorced or widowed. Either way, there is zero mention of this former husband/father to her child. Lauren does not share her sister’s homemaking gene though, because apparently her cookies taste terrible. Lauren is rocking a casual braid and I get mad because I never look that cute in a braid. Alice gets a candy cane in exchange for making a cute Christmas card display which bums everyone out.

Dawn decides to sneak home to grab more clothes. Well, unfortunately for her, Gabe is home. The house is TOTALLY decorated for Christmas. If I was gone for 3 months, I can assure you, there would likely be very few Christmas decorations up upon my return. But Gabe did forget ONE CRUCIAL decoration: mistletoe. But that (alone apparently) seems to be her job.

Dawn heads to the Cranberry Festival to start setting up. She runs into her in-laws and they all seem very happy to see each other. So that’s nice. They have a booth for baked goods. Dawn’s grandma also sells jewelry. So we just have a family of little hustlers.

Then, Dawn runs into Gabe again. They are very surprised to see each other. He thought she would be too busy to plan the festival and she thought HE would be too busy. So, I want to make sure I understand. They decided to take a 3 month separation, knowing that separation would end at the beginning of the festival, and did not decide beforehand who would be responsible for what. Oh wait, I get it. THESE TWO HAVE COMMUNICATION ISSUES.

Alright so they will just do everything together. That will be fine, right? Then Dawn helps a volunteer get set up with the Christmas ornaments. Because you KNOW there’s gonna be a TREE LIGHTING y’all. Are we 6/6 on these movies having Christmas Tree Lightings? I think yes, we are. But PROBLEM. All the ornaments are inexplicably broken, which is a huge bummer because the town has been collecting them for years.

Then Pamela calls. She wonders if she might feature the Cranberry Festival on her show? She has time. And she really wants to feature Mr. and Mrs. Cranberry Lane working together, being happily married. So that should be no problem. Then we get perhaps the worst news of all. There will be NO frozen hot chocolate booth this year!!! What a disaster. Then she talks to Gabe about the possibility of the festival getting featured on Pam’s show. They decide that this is probably not the right time to do the show.

Then Gabe talks to his parents. They ask him how Dawn took…the news. What news? He tells them they said no to Pam’s show. They essentially call him an idiot. They convince him to allow Pam to do the show.

Later, Gabe shows up at Lauren’s to talk to Dawn. Dawn invites him in for hot chocolate. So that’s nice. Gabe surprises Dawn by saying they SHOULD do the show. It would be so nice for the town.

The next morning, Dawn is up early and we learn that she has stress decorated and baked. Lauren shares that she’s been trying to get their grandma to move in with her and her daughter. The grandma does not want to. Lauren thinks the grandma needs to be around people. She asks Dawn to talk their grandma into it.

Then Dawn heads to her own house to meet the camera crew. She notices a for sale sign next door. Well, that is interesting, isn’t it? The camera crew is ready to go and they want to start at the farm. They really want to focus on Gabe and Dawn together. As they wander through the farm Dawn says some nice things about Gabe. Gabe gives Dawn a backhanded compliment when he says she is the dreamer and he is the “Doer.” Kind of harsh, Tai!

We also get some background on their lives. They’ve known each other basically their entire lives. They got married ten years ago but were too busy to buy wedding rings? I guess Dawn wanted to design her own so they just didn’t get around to it? I don’t know about all that. Unless she’s just not a jewelry person.

Then they get roped in to doing a big family tree decorating event that night for the cameras. That sounds fun. Then we learn Dawn’s grandma has her own Instagram. I DOUBT IT.

Their family has a seemingly cute idea for their annual tree decorating evening. They make their own ornaments and use their old family ones too. Eh I am going to guess they are all pretty crafty so the ornaments probably look fine. But let me just say, that if this were a tradition in my family, our tree would be filled with ornaments that look like a 2nd grade art project. Dawn and her niece, Alice, are working their way through an advent calendar of Christmas activities. Tonight is sleepover night, which means Dawn gets to sleep on those hardwood floors right next to the tree. I wouldn’t even do that for my own children, let alone a niece or nephew.

As Gabe leaves, he chickens out telling Dawn the big important news.

The next morning, there is a flurry of activity at the festival. Lauren is still hounding Dawn to convince their grandma to move in with her. Gabe got the frozen hot chocolate booth back so Christmas is saved. And THEN PAMELA SHOWS UP. Hasn’t Dawn like, checked her phone at all today? So anyway, Pam just wanted to come to the festival and film some of her own stuff there because she doesn’t have any Christmas programming planned at all. So Pamela wants to film some of her show at their tree lighting. Dawn and Gabe look super uncomfortable but then Gabe decides to ask Pam to stay and do her show. OH and Pam showed up there with no hotel arrangements. So, Gabe offers to let Pam stay with THEM! SO not awkward.

In the morning, Dawn is up and ready to go and has made Pamela a cappuccino. SO FANCY. But she put…cranberry syrup in it. YUCK. Oh I would be so bummed that she ruined a perfectly good cappuccino. Remember, its peppermint mocha or its nothing. Then Pam wants to go see where the syrup is made.

Gabe is already out there making all kinds of disgusting cranberry things that no one would want-syrup, extracts, juice…okay well cranberry juice is fine I guess. But extract? What are you making with cranberry extract? Pam asks about their five and ten year plan and they have no plans. They just see what happens. Well guys, MAYBE THAT IS WHY YOUR MARRIAGE IS IN TROUBLE. But, they do say, they just want to end up sitting on rocking chairs together on their porch.

After Pam swipes some jelly, they decide to head to the festival. Grandma’s jewelry is just flying off the shelves. Gabe and his parents freak out a little about Pamela being there. Gabe still hasn’t found the “right time” to tell Dawn his NEWS.

Now it’s time for the tree lighting. Dawn’s big idea for this, in light of the broken ornaments, is to have all the festival attendees quickly make some ornaments to hang on the tree. They all audibly grown and head off to do this chore. But they’re making cran-lemonade out of broken ornaments as the old saying goes.

Finally, Gabe decides this is the appropriate place to tell Dawn that he put an offer on the property next door. Oh, and he doesn’t want to be part of the Cranberry Lane side of the business either. Dawn is very shocked. And they don’t really talk about it anymore.

Later, Gabe has another heart to heart with his dad. His dad is like, you honestly just need to work on your communication skills in general. Inside their house, Gabe and Dawn hug. I am surprised by this because they had been so awkward before. But now it seems like they’re just getting along again. Pam the third wheel comes down and interrupts their little moment. She’s decided she would like to stay for the whole festival. Gabe and Dawn are both very uncomfortable. Pam is like, oh yeah that is super inappropriate of me to invite myself to stay at your house for several more days. But then they are like, no… no….it’s fine. We definitely want you to stay. Pam is like, don’t have to tell me twice! I’ll go put all my stuff back in the drawers in your guest room.

Then Lauren drops Alice off to bake cookies. Alice does not care about any of Dawn’s baking tips. Then we learn the cookies at the festival’s cookie competition have to be cranberry inspired. Why don’t we just have a raisin festival for heaven’s shake. Only cranberry cookies? How disappointing.

Pamela doesn’t seem to mind because she is just pounding cookies at the festival. Gabe’s mom is so pleased. Gabe approaches Dawn to talk again. At the festival! So appropriate.

They have a nice, very mature conservation about their issues. This is surprising considering that their strategy thus far has been to just avoid difficult conversations. He apologizes for making a huge financial/business decision without her input. She says she wants to be part of his dreams.

Now it’s time for the winner of the sad cookie contest. Gabe’s mom wins with the only cranberry cookie flavor I’ve ever actually heard of. Her recipe will be featured on Pamela’s website! But what if Mary uses a recipe from Pinterest like everyone else on Earth? Mary has no chill when it comes to Pamela.

Later, Dawn makes cookie butter out of all the leftover cookie competition cookies. And well, that is A REALLY GREAT IDEA. I am definitely going to do that the next time I have too many cookies left over and don’t want to be forced to eat them before they go bad. Dawn’s grandma gives Dawn some really good advice about marriage. It is truly shocking though, that ten years in, along with running a business together, Dawn still expects things to be easy? Anyway, this conversation seems to make Dawn feel a lot better so that’s all that matters. And Dawn decides she doesn’t want to give up.

Dawn heads outside and finds Gabe. They end up chatting and strategizing about the potential expansion of their farm. it is a very lovely moment. He says he likes getting to be the dreamer in the relationship. He didn’t think they both could do that. That is a little sad.

They decide to skip the festival that day and watching Christmas movies. So that is nice. Gabe tears up at the end.

Pamela returns from the festival and is just having the time of her life. She pulls Dawn aside to tell her that she wants to create a new show with Dawn and Gabe on her network about Cranberry Lane. At this point, my dad pops in to the living room and gives some spot on marriage advice to Gabe and Dawn. They ignore it for now.

At the festival, people continue to go crazy for Dawn’s grandma’s jewelry. Dawn, of course, hasn’t told Gabe about the television program. Pam comes by and wonders why Dawn isn’t excited about the show. Dawn shares she really wants to prioritize her marriage. Pam is very understanding and shares that her career ended one of her relationships early on.

Then they have a little fun at the festival with all the little janky carnival games. Dawn is wearing a cute little conservative dress. Gabe and Dawn say they miss each other and take a little photo together.

Later, Gabe is outside whittling. I guess he is getting ready for smores. Again, I don’t think smores are a Christmas thing but I guess that’s my own personal problem.

Gabe tells Dawn that their offer was accepted. Dawn is genuinely very excited about it. They both say they want to do everything together. Then they kiss! But they’re married so it’s okay.

Okay so is this the same day? It’s the day of the Festival Dance I think. Pam pulls Dawn aside to ask if she’s made any decisions about the show. Pam says she needs an answer by tomorrow. She shares more about her regrets in life. After Dawn leaves, she makes a phone call.

Dawn comes home to find two rockers on their back porch. So that’s cute. Then they get all dressed up for the dance. Gabe says a lot of really nice things to Dawn and they head to the dance.

At the dance, Dawn tells Lauren she is going to turn down the show without talking to Gabe about it at all. She knows he would make her do it and then they would be in the same situation or worse! And she knows she’ll regret missing out on all the time with her family. Then Pam blabs to Gabe’s mom about the show idea. Mary immediately runs to Gabe and is like, why did you turn down the show! OOOH Boy. DRAMA.

So then Gabe pulls Dawn aside and is like so, what’s up GF?!! So Gabe of course doesn’t want her to give anything up for him. And he feels like maybe they are just growing apart. And Dawn is like, oh here we go again with this! And Pam creeps in the background and overhears. SO AWKWARD.

The next morning, Pam and Dawn are talking at Cranberry Lane HQ. Dawn is wearing a great green dress. Dawn tells Pam she is going to turn down the show. Pam tells Dawn she’s inspired her to spend Christmas with her family and hopefully reconnect with her long lost love!!

Dawn goes over to Lauren’s and finds her grandma. Grandma decided to move in with Lauren after all. Then she abruptly leaves to deliver a Christmas present. Dawn tells Lauren she doesn’t want to give up on Gabe.

Now it’s time for Grandma to give Gabe some good advice. She is just working overtime this movie!

So now it’s like Christmas Eve dinner maybe? Gabe’s parents arrive. And then Gabe arrives and he and Dawn go outside and talk. And then my husband starts yelling up from the laundry room asking me whether certain items can go in the dryer and at what temperature and I nearly throw my coffee mug at him to be quiet until the movie is over.

They have a really nice convo that definitely doesn’t make me tear up. Surprise, surprise, he has a new ring for her that he designed and her grandma made. It is a really pretty cranberry ring. He re-proposes to her and again, nobody tears up about any of this so it’s fine. Alice ruins the moment by telling them it’s time to eat.

Is this whole meal cranberry themed? How much cranberry can a person eat for heaven’s sake.

So this movie is still not over. The next morning, Dawn comes downstairs and can’t find Gabe. He’s sitting on their porch rockers freezing his buns off with that light little blanket. He has some news. INSTEAD OF TALKING TO DAWN FIRST, he pitched a different show idea to Pam. It would be about them expanding the farm on the new property. Luckily Dawn is thrilled. Then she sees he hung the mistletoe she made outside above the rockers and thus far it has not been damaged. They kiss and nobody learns any lessons about communicating any differently.

Okay so I loved this one. It will probably end up being one of my favorites of the season. Nikki Deloach is one of my faves and I loved Benjamin Ayres in Blue Ridge Mountain Christmas. All the characters were very fun and I liked the idea of Hallmark showing two people falling in love again after going through a difficult time. So, this is definitely worth a watch! Let’s see how it did on the checklist. Since we didn’t have two “new to each other” leads, we missed out on a lot of common tropes! Maybe that’s why it was so good. 4/20.

1. Cranberry Festival
2. Christmas Tree Lighting
3. Christmas Baking
4. A sassy and wise friend (Grandma!)

Alright, the last Valentine’s Day movie. What is next? Spring? A break? Or is the whole month of February Valentine’s themed? I’m fine with that.

Erin Cahill, Kelly, walks her little dog around the neighborhood. His name is George. Kelly agrees to make two dozen lemon bars for her neighbor. She just leaves her dog to roam around inside her house. She heads into the bakery. Everyone is at work. Really beautiful cakes and cookies and stuff. She does a quick taste test. She sets her purse down in the front of the store. How nice it must be to come into work well after all the employees are there. That is the main downside of owning a bakery-that you’d have to basically get there in the middle of the night to get stuff ready for the day. But not Kelly. She let’s her employees do that so she can take her dog for a leisurely walk before work. Inside, a customer can’t seem to make up her mind. Oh, no she goes back to her usual. Girl, I’d be struggling too. That bakery truly looks phenomenal. I’d be going there every day.

She asks if there are any messages, because apparently there are no cellphones and people still take messages. She reminds her employee that she is happy being single. Someone important named Dawn called too and needed a last minute order for Andrew’s homecoming…oh, her ex fiancé. She seems pretty chill about it.

She waves across the street to maybe…her parents? The diner across the street has America’s favorite cooking show on. Kelly brings over a bunch of cakes or baked items over in a little wagon. The lead shares that she orders pizza and organizes her closets on Valentine’s Day. Sounds fun! Her parents share that they are selling their restaurant to retire. And Kelly is too busy with her own business to take over her parents’ place. Then she shares that she heard Andrew is going to be in town. Apparently their plan was to run her parents’ diner. But Andrew must have blown that all up.

Kelly brings a fabulous cake over to Andrew’s welcome home party. His sister is SHOCKED that Kelly isn’t going to stay. I mean, duh? Oh, it’s a surprise welcome home party. On the drive to the house, Andrew suspects there is a surprise party in the works. Andrew gets a call from A VERY FRENCH PERSON named Francois. There is an emergency at the French restaurant where he works? He must be coming from Paris? Wow. Dawn, the sister, keeps stalling to keep Kelly there. These Hallmark people work harder than EVERYONE. And it works. Andrew walks right in the door as Kelly is trying to leave. They see each other. The room is silent.

Later, Andrew catches up with his mom and sister. He is obviously surprised to see Kelly there. She stays and serves the cake. Andrew is only in town for a few days. Quick stop over on the way to New York to help open a friend’s restaurant. Very busy, very important. Andrew says Kelly’s cake is a slam dunk, even though it is lavender flavored. Oh wait, no, it’s honey ALMOND. Actually, that is probably pretty good. Andrew’s mom volunteers him to drive Kelly home so she can stay. If I had been Kelly I would have rather died.

He is surprised by the house she lives in. Their initials are carved into the tree out front. And she must have done some renovations at this house. Guess what, WE NEVER HEAR MORE ABOUT THIS. We never learn the significance of this house to them. Just that tree. Andrew is the executive pastry chef somewhere…in Paris, obvi. He decides to walk her to her door. What a gentleman. She says George is probably waiting for dinner. She makes it seem like George is a man which is great. A VERY GOOD BOI runs right to the door and says hello. He hopes to run into her more while he’s in town. But she’s SUPER BUSY OKAY?

The next day, a camera crew just shows up into the bakery. Kelly has a panic attack. I’m panicked that they started filming without asking her permission! But Kelly got selected to be in some Valentine’s baking show. She can’t believe it. She’s so stoked. Someone nominated her. But they can’t tell her who nominated her. It’s very serious and secret. The show host needs a red velvet cupcake. She charges her $5.

The producer goes over everything with her. Ten days in New York. But what about the bakery?Figure it out, Kelly. A lot of money is on the line. So, the show a HUGE SECRET. She can’t tell anyone she’s going except one person. And none of the contestants know who each other is. So, okay. Andrew is definitely also a contestant, right? But she’s close with her parents. So, like, what is she supposed to tell her parents? She’s supposed to be like, okay well I’m going on a solo vacation for ten days but don’t worry about it, okay?

Later, Kelly brushes up on some old recipes. Kelly shares that she really wants to tell Andrew…to like, rub it in his face. Same, girl. Kelly does some practice baking that night after the bakery closes. Andrew shows up. He would love a tour. He said he couldn’t sleep. WHAT TIME IS IT? What now, this was a ribbon factory before a bakery? What in the world? A tiny little ribbon factory? I can’t. I don’t have time.

I’m disappointed. She was making cranberry orange muffins. She’s not going to win with that recipe. He offers to help and suggests a cinnamon glaze. That might work. Still not going to reach for that over something else. Andrew is wearing a great sweater. He shares that he felt horrible about how things ended. She’s like, well I’m over it. He’s like, okay, bye then!

The next day she starts to spin the web that gets her to sneak to New York. She tells her mom she’s going to Atlanta and her mom is like, oh I’ll come! And she’s so excited. And Kelly’s homegirl backs her up. She can’t come. Only room for one lady at that bakery retail conference. Her parents are way too concerned for a a woman in her… late thirties? To be traveling alone.

Wow, Kelly got to fly first class! And seems like she has a sort of like, assistant? She has a phenomenal hotel room. The producer says she can’t take any pictures of the view because of her NDA. But um, she could take pics? Just can’t share them until later. Geez Louise, lady.

Andrew strolls along NYC with a lady. She wants to eat but he doesn’t. He says he misses his hometown, the North Carolina one; not the Paris one. Ooooooooh.

The next morning, Kelly seemingly doesn’t set an alarm and wakes up to a phone call from the producer telling her she’ll be there in 30 minutes. THAT’S NOT ENOUGH TIME TO GET READY.

Regardless, she gets there in time. She gets a little red chef top with her name on it for the show and her own little studio kitchen. The producer explains the ground rules again. AH! They just like START! I’m so panicked for her. No practicing? No tips on how to be on TV?!! AHH. Andrew’s totally there, right?

Maneet, the show host, explains the rules. She has to make something for a 50th wedding anniversary. How about sugar free chocolate pudding? Or a plain banana? Instead she needs to make something with chili peppers and chocolate. No 70+ year old is eating chili peppers in dessert, lady!!!

Kelly seems to know immediately what to make. She makes one of those cute decorated cookie cakes in the shape of “50”. I LOVE IT. So great. It looks gorgeous. The producer comes down to get her when the time is up.

She and her producer walk around. And SHE SEES Andrew. Uh oh. So that other lady is also a producer I’m guessing. They walk over and say hi. She scrambles to come up with an excuse for being here. Brenda and Lori pretend not to know each other. Andrew suggests they all eat together. Kelly suggests a place and Lori is like, girl good luck. Andrew makes a call and they get right in. Andrew IS WEARING A TURTLENECK. I can’t focus on anything else. They’re talking about their childhood or whatever but all I can see is Andrew’s turtleneck.

From above the turtleneck he says he’d rather own a restaurant than be a pastry chef. Lori gets a ding and says she has to leave. And well, so does Brenda and Kelly.

Back at the contest, Kelly shares what she made. It sounds awesome. The judges share what they think. The first judge LOVES it. The second judge is that dopey guy from one of the Christmas movies. He loves it too. But the third judge says she wasn’t daring enough. But he still loved it.

On the way back to the hotel, Brenda asks about Andrew. Brenda thinks Andrew still has a thing for her. Kelly decides to call him in the car to say thank you again. And then, she asks to keep catching up if he’s not too busy. DAAAANG GIRL. Get it. They’re going to have dinner. And now we know what I knew already. HE IS ALSO ON THE SHOW. Well, duh.

Back on the show the next day, Kelly panics about getting eliminated. There is a plate on their tray saying whether or not they will move on to the next round. Kelly and Andrew both got tickets. Kelly and Andrew are shocked about who got eliminated. After the day, yhe producer is too wiped to hang with Kelly. But then, Kelly’s phone pings. Andrew wants to hang! Brenda doesn’t seem bothered that they are both contestants and might find out…

Later, Kelly checks in with her friend and employee. Kelly says she’s just looking for closure with Andrew. The friend shares that her mom told her they are close to closing on the restaurant. Francois, who is DEFINITELY FRENCH, OKAY? Is not pleased with Andrew being gone again. He wants to fire the assistant Andrew left in his place. He and Kelly meet in a park. He has an idea. Oh sad. He is taking her to a hot dog stand. Look, I’m in. But I’m still going to be hungry. They sit outside in the freezing cold and eat their hot dogs. Why do they actually film these in the winter but not the Christmas ones? She shares that her parents are selling the restaurant. He’s so bummed.

The next day, Kelly shares with Brenda that she was hoping for closure but that was not what she got last night. Brenda is just HUSTLING for these two. I want to see Kelly bake more stuff! So, this time they have to make something for a kid’s birthday party….using things kids would NEVER eat-rose petals and nuts. There is no birthday party in America using nuts. Maneet walks around and talks to the contestants. Kelly is smartly making cake pops. Andrew is making some kind of French version of the same thing… oh no, he’s making cream puffs. She made edible roses too. I’m confused. The third contestant made puppy cupcakes. That seems like the only kid appropriate dessert. One of the judges is like, oh Andrew the thing you made is not practical for a kid’s birthday party. Duh. Neither is Kelly’s! All the judges had something critical to say to everyone! Ah. I’m in suspense. It’s dome time.

Kelly gets to advance to the next round. And so does Andrew. But poor puppy dog cupcakes does not. Kelly can’t believe it. Later, Kelly and Andrew do an interview for the show. Kelly shares a story about her first Valentine’s Day. Andrew says there IS someone he would want to call if he won.

Later, Brenda and Kelly toast and decide to go get cheesecake. But then Brenda gets a call and has to do work. She tells Kelly to go by herself. Sad. Oh Lori and Brenda are SCHEMING. Why didn’t they call each other to hang out that night anyway? Kelly sits down and loses her mind about the world’s greatest cheesecake. Is this a real place in NYC? I didn’t know! And then, Andrew shows up. Koinky dink!

Kelly asks the owner about the cheesecake. They chat and he ends up saying that her bakery is his favorite place in the world. Kelly is way to eager with the taxi. Andrew asks if they can continue this later. Kelly is like, well no. You’re going to Paris and I’m going back to North Carolina! And he’s like, oh yeah. I forgot.

The next day, Brenda gives her a pep talk. Andrew tells his producer that this money could be a fresh start for him. Oh, so he’s going to win and buy Kelly’s parents’ diner.

Maneet shares they have a surprise. Her producer gets to help! Okay, now they have to make a tall proposal cake. She comes up with a pretty bland idea for a design. But she decides to make her classic cake. Andrew comes up with an idea too. I wonder if they decide to make the same cake. Maneet wanders around and is very unhelpful. The time is runnng out . Andrew’s cake LOOKS way prettier. Oh wait, no, I like Kelly’s. Andrew’s looks like a wedding cake.

The judges are sampling the cakes. And NOW THEY GET TO SEE WHO THEY ARE COMPETING AGAINST. They bring Kelly out first. Lori and Brenda giggle. They look at each other and smile and laugh. Maneet asks if they’re dying to know who nominated them. Maneet reads the nomination. They were nominated at the same time with the hopes that they get together. Oh, his sister. So what about those other two contestants. Were they just pawns? The judges say they are stumped because they made the exact same cake. The judges can’t tell the cake apart. Maneet gets to break the tie. Kelly seems confused by this.

Later, Kelly is mad. She says it’s HER recipe. Andrew is like, no we made that cake recipe TOGETHER. They kind of get in to it. He asked her to come, he left and her home is in Bailey’s Fork. Eh. They’re both wrong. But she should have gone to Paris.

Maneet brings them back and is ready to announce the winner. Kelly wins! Oh Andrew is a good sport but gets pushed out of the way by everything and just fades away. Her cake was prettier. Kelly goes back to her dressing room. Brenda says they have lots of press to do now. Oh, I love Kelly’s sweater too. Andrew is actually still in the building. He was hoping to catch Kelly. Now all of a sudden, Brenda is not working it for Kelly and Andrew? Oh maybe not. Kelly left her jacket and Andrew offers to bring it to her. They run into each other in the hotel lobby.

Kelly is off to the airport. She’s late. Andrew tells her to have a safe trip home and they have a weird hug. Then he tells her why he never comes home to visit. He says that he knew if he saw her, it would be too hard to leave again. AND IT WAS TOO HARD. He still has feelings for her. He misses Bailey’s Fork every day because she’s there. And that’s why he made that cake. It reminds him of home and her. He says he couldn’t leave without telling her how he feels. They never stopped loving each other. Oh he grabs her hands but he’s wearing leather gloves so she is horrified and runs away. She is like no we can’t be together. But it’s for different reasons than you wearing those weird driving gloves. She tearfully walks away.

Back in his hotel, Andrew talks to SUPER FRENCH Francois on the phone. He is exasperated. His ride is there but his suitcase is still wide open. Then he makes another phone call.

Back at the Cake Factory, that lady who always orders the same thing, decides to change it up. The lady shares that it’s her anniversary, so Kelly gives her the order for free. Her friend is like, let’s go watch your show. The whole town is assembled in Main Street Cafe to watch the finale. Kelly thanks Dawn for the nomination. Dawn congratulates Kelly’s parents on the sale of the restaurant. But this is news to Kelly. Then she gets a text from Andrew. It is very direct. She texts back, where are you? But why doesn’t she just call him? Anway, he’s outside her house by their tree. He tells her again that he has to talk to her. SHE’s MISSING THE FINALE WITH THE WHOLE TOWN.

They go inside and Andrew says he’s moving back. He’s very sure. Ugh They should go to Paris. She asks what he’s going to do for work. He’s like, you just won 100k and run a bakery. I don’t need to work, girl!! Just kidding, he’s buying her parents’ diner. And then they kiss. And then she remembers that the finale is on. Geez Louise. So they make it back just in time. Everyone cheers for Kelly. Andrew is humiliated all over again. Oh, one year later!

Kelly walks out of her shop and over to the diner. Both places are decorated for Valentine’s Day. Great blush coat. Andrew is handing her cupcakes and then hands her a ring box. RIGHT IN THE RESTAURANT. Right in front of everyone. Great ring. I don’t love that as a proposal though. Pretty rushed and anticlimactic. Oh well. That’s it! We DID IT.

Here we go. I have high hopes for this one. I have to believe that it’s better than last week! It’s on me at this point though. Let’s give it a go.

Our very tall lead, Julia is jogging in the park with her friend, Madison. Sounds like they’re wedding planners. Oh good. Haven’t had a wedding planning plot in a while. A very good pup runs up to them. They are on the outside looking in on a dog park. Oh, apparently they run by the dog park every day and there is always a dog adoption event happening there. A VERY GOOD GIRL approaches them at the fence to say hi. But Julia can’t take on a dog. She is too busy. Madison is being a GREAT friend and tries to talk her into getting a dog. Julia has a lot of great, logical reasons for not impulse buying a living animal. But Madison is like well I got married thanks to taking a risk like this so maybe just get the dog. And the lead is like, what? That’s not the same thing. Your husband wouldn’t sit alone in your apartment all day trying not to poop his pants waiting for you to get home to let him outside? And surely, your husband wouldn’t chew up all your furniture because he’s bored home alone all day? Or split his ear on some barbed wire while you’re out on a leisurely stroll by the lake and then make your bathroom look like a crime scene while you’re trying to get him cleaned up? I could go on. And I say all of this as a dog person. She waves at the dog and they wander off.

Julia heads into work and a coworker is reading an article about a guy who tells people to stay single if they want to be successful. Oh they are a matchmaking company. Madison was just PLANNING her wedding and used the matchmaking service and that’s how she and Julia became friends. Got it. They have a new employee, Timothy. Julia is supposed to let Timothy shadow her, even though he is not doing matchmaking. He is doing marketing. Regardless, Julia takes Timothy along to a restaurant. They are meeting Alexis, a new client. She is the chef. Alexis wants to do some restaurant prep while they talk.

Julia asks her about why she wants to try matchmaking. It looks like Alexis is doing some pancake art. It is her signature dessert. Pancakes are not a signature dessert you guys. Pancakes are MANY WONDERFUL THINGS, but they are not dessert. I would be so disappointed if someone said, and for desert, PANCAKES! Now, if someone said, and for dinner, PANCAKES! SIgn me up. I’m there 5 days a week. But after dinner? No. But what about a really thin Scandinavian waffle with ice cream and jelly? Absolutely. Yes. Okay where were we? Yes, Alexis’s dating profile. Julia asks lots of great questions. Alexis says her perfect date wouldn’t be food related. Timothy helps himself to the pancake sample.

Back at the office, they talk about the company Valentine’s Party. Oh I love Julia’s shirt? Or dress? I can’t tell but I’m here for whatever it is. The owner doesn’t want to change anything about the party. It’s not broken, don’t fix it. It sounds like a stuffy boring party.

Julia and Timothy head back to the restaurant with a sealed envelope. It’s got all the date details and all Alexis gets to know is the guy’s name is Jeremy. It has to be a blind date. Apparently that helps? Then they send someone to spy on them. The date goes well and it seems some amount of time passes and Julia gets lots of picture updates. It sounds like it is all working out for Alexis! Great job.

Later, it’s Julia’s friend and coworker, Gwen’s birthday. She has been in some stuff. Can’t remember what. She runs into Madison. Julia says she will be at the engagement party tomorrow. Julia stands at the bar and observes a nice guy help a woman with her scarf. A creepy guy is also observing the scene also. Now they both comment on others in the restaurant, including a couple who are both on their phone. The guy makes a little dig about matchmaking and then she hands him her card. And then he feels bad. Julia is like in case you want to be matched up. He’s like, a matchmaker? I would rather die. No offense.

Julia is wearing a lovely pink coat. I should really try to make my outfits more seasonal like Hallmark does. All I want now are some blush pinks. But it’s already the week of Valentine’s Day so I’ve wasted the entire winter blush pink season haven’t I?

She is at her parents’ flower shop. They seem to do the floral arrangements for all the events at the matchmaking agency. OOOOH, Daniel walks in. He is opening up a pet adoption place down the street. Doesn’t he just mean dog rescue? They have that awkward..oh, do you two know each other? Oh, it’s a pet project of his. Great. So just a side gig. Again, I think it’s just called a dog shelter or rescue?

Daniel is like so your parents own a flower shop and you’re a matchmaker eh? Julia is judgy about Daniel not being on board with matchmaking. Why is she so aggressive about that? She’s like, you have my card!

At the office, she talks to her boss about attracting more appealing clients and competing with apps. Elizabeth wants HIGH ROLLERS, like the good old days. Yeah, how does anyone use a traditional matchmaking service that seemingly has over 20 employees? In 2020? Oh, another article from Mr. Stay Single. So now they want to find HIM a date. Why would a guy even be doing that? Writing articles about encouraging others to stay single? Oh no. Guess who Mr. Stay Single is? It’s Daniel. Wow. I did not see that coming.

Later, Julia heads to Madison’s engagement party. Her fiancé OWNS the building with his business partner which I’m pretty sure is Daniel. Yep, he’s there at the party. Yep. He just admitted to it. Julia shares that she read his article. He’s like, oh yeah that whole stay single thing? I kind of just said that in passing. It should definitely not be the theme of this entire movie. And Julia is like, yeah I’m single too! It DOES make my career easier. Ya, doy.

Then the engaged couple gives a speech. Julia shares they were a 91% match. Then Matt gives Daniel a coupon for the matchmaking service. Seems like that means he’s now FORCED to participate? I’m not sure that’s how coupons work.

The next day, her boss, Elizabeth shares that her husband just got a job in Paris but she isn’t sure she can go with him. She’s like, this matchmaking job is just TOO IMPORTANT to live in Paris with her husband while he does his dream job. Julia is like, are you insane? Julia shares that she got Mr. Stay Single to agree to a free consultation.

Later, Julia stops by the rescue to drop off the flowers from her parents and sees her pal, Luna. She is a VERY GOOD GIRL. Daniel is like, why don’t you just adopt the dog? Julia says that Matt paid for his consultation. DUDE. That is SO AGGRESSIVE. Julia is like, yeah it’s really easy! There is just a really long online form and and questionnaire to fill out! He’s like, yeah I’m leaning towards…HARD PASS. She’s like, okay how about just the in person interview?

So, they head to a restaurant he likes. He shares that his passion is other people’s passions. Helping other businesses be successful. Quick question, do Hallmark stars drink hot chocolate year round or do they switch it up in the spring and summer? Then Daniel shares what he wants in a date or whatever. And now he’s gotta fill out that dang questionnaire. She shares that she has filled it out too just to test it? Oh guess what’s going to happen? They are going to be like a 100% match.

Oh, I think Gwen is in Christmas on my Mind…? Is that what it was called? Also, Liz, the boss, is on vacation so Julia decides to change EVERYTHING about the party. And now, a double NOT DATE with Madison and Matt and Daniel. Matt agrees to let Julia host the Valentine party at their venue for free. Matt and Madison head to dance class. Julia and Daniel decline to join them. They’re like, we don’t have that non Groupon dance class money?

Julia keeps pushing him to use the matchmaking service. Does she work on commission? Dang girl. Chill.

Julia stops by her parents’ flower shop again. Her dad shares that he’s been thinking about getting out of the flower shop game. He’s tired of all this floral arranging. What is that mom on? Oh and Julia is changing all the flowers too! Her dad is like, isn’t Liz going to be SUPER PISSED? Julia is not bothered.

Later, Daniel and Matt walk some dogs in the middle of the day. Daniel complains about the questionnaire. Matt tries to have a nice heart to heart bro moment with him. I’m truly just sympathetic about filling out such a tedious form.

Back at the office, they have a meeting to reveal Daniel’s matches. This seems totally unnecessary. But how else is everyone going to reveal they have a 100% match? Oh, Julia goes on and on about how great Daniel is. Oh, and now she wants to take a risk and match this skeptic with someone who is only a 75% match. Boy she has really let this two week acting manager thing go right to her head!

At the pet rescue, she sees poor Luna again. WHY HAS NO ONE ADOPTED THIS SWEET GIRL.

She pops her head back up and barks. She is a VERY GOOD GIRL. WHy is she still there?! Alright so Daniel has a date with a 75% Match. They go to a stargazing class. That does sound cool. Who pays for the dates?

Later, Julia walks alone at night and sees a bunch of happy couples. It is so IRONIC that Mr. Stay Single was like, sure set me up! And here she is, all alone.

The next day, Julia is at a painting class. Gwen says that she’s getting lot of “No” RSVPs for their company party. Julia thinks maybe they should invite all their clients; not just the success stories. Julia shares that part of her goal with the painting class is scouting for new clients. She seems to have snagged the owner of the painting class. After the class, they run into Daniel. And GUESS WHAT, he was not a match with Miss 75%. But he is open to another match, though. Seems like the Mr. Stay Single thing has kind of fizzled. Julia tells him they are on their way to do some chocolate sampling. Gwen takes the hint and BOLTS.

They head to the chocolate shop. Okay, I’m in on this activity too. A chocolate tasting? It is called “The Romantic Ride.” Oh yuck. The employee suggests that everyone hold hands as they walk to each station. Pass.

They chat about where they came from. I don’t love the sweater she’s wearing. She likes that her parents like to work together still. And then they talk about love. They keep being pushed to the next station! At one station, Julia has nothing on her face but we are made to believe she does and Daniel wipes it off for her. I would die. They leave with like 6 pallets of chocolate. On the way home, they see a (homeless?) guy playing the guitar and people are dancing. Daniel asks if she wants to dance but she declines, as I would. She suggests he come by on Monday morning so she can try again with his matches. She wanders off into the park…alone…at night. She is abducted and murdered.

Just kidding. She goes onto her computer and runs a check of Daniel’s questionnaire against her own name. I don’t see the results. She immediately shuts her computer though. Timothy is like SUPER eager and has put together a whole campaign about finding Daniel a match. Oh no. Daniel walks in and sees the marketing materials. But he was actually coming in to say he doesn’t want a matchmaker anyway. Probably because he likes her! Julia is just desperate for that commission though.

Later, Julia FaceTimes with her boss, which is not at all a weird thing to do…It seems like maybe she’s going to stay in Paris. She asks about the Stay Single guy. Julia hedges. Gwen lingers creepily in the doorway. Gwen is like, oh so you’re going to keep lying to your boss? Hope you know what you’re doing!

Later, Daniel and Matt walk even more dogs. They talk about his time out with Julia. Matt is like, oh you like Julia. DUH. Oh and he shares they’ve gotten 12 dogs adopted. And then Matt decides he’s going to take one.

Julia stops by her parents’ flower shop again. Both her parents seem worn out by the floral biz. Julia stops by the pet shop and sees Luna. The best girl with her little tail wagging. Okay, Julia this is just heartless. Julia is still all in on the business. Only wants to talk about matches. Daniel suggests she just start her own business. Daniel says he will come back to the business but they can’t use him in any advertising. And he wants her to adopt Luna. This poor beautiful pup! She’s like the only dog left!

Later, Julia talks to the art class teacher about her date. Hey, she’s in the same Christmas movie as Gwen. Oh, she’s setting her up with Daniel. Is she just throwing all the algorithms out the window? Ugh. I feel bad this art teacher is just thrown into middle of this mess. She deserves an actual nice guy even though I don’t even know her.

Julia stops by the pet shop. There is a guy taking pictures of the dogs. Hey, he should be set up with the art teacher instead. Daniel got his photography business off the ground. Oh! Now we have a dog photo shoot montage. I love it. She asks the photographer to attend the party and she hands out her business card. SHE IS HUSTLING. Oh and they’re going to add a little pet adoption to the party. Great idea.

Later, Julia and Daniel chat more over coffee. She says she wouldn’t use a matchmaking company right now. She shares that she was engaged once already. Poor Daniel says one of the great things about being single is sitting around all night in his sweats. What does that have to do with being single? I do that now? Then she hands Daniel his date card info. Daniel shares that he saw the spy on his last date. They are not exactly covert.

Julia heads to her spy appointment. Oh Gwen arrives to help. Oh it’s Daniel and Chloe. Dumb Timothy gave her the wrong assignment. Daniel and Chloe are a 91% match! Julia is not stoked that they are hitting it off and she decides to leave.

Julia and Madison go running again. The friend wonders if she’s avoiding Daniel. She’s like, it’s okay to like him, even if he’s a client. They’re wearing too weird of clothes for running. And why aren’t these people putting their hair up when they run? Am I the crazy one here?

Julia and Gwen chat about the party. Gwen noticed that they hadn’t updated older, seemingly yet to be matched clients’ questionnaires so the results might be skewed. Okay, now we will discover they are a 100% match. Julia gets a text from the caterer. Apparently they just realized they can’t accomodate the larger venue and guest list.

Timothy is at Julia’s flower shop having a nice heart to heart about his career with Julia’s mom. Daniel arrives. He saw Julia through the window and wanted to say hi. And thanks because he had a great date. Oh, he wants to take her on a second date. Oh sad. She shares about her caterer dilemma. He says, utilize resources you already have. Good idea.

Julia heads to Alexis for help. Alexis really doesn’t want to do it. She wants to celebrate Valentine’s Day with Jeremy. Alexis mistakes Julia and Daniel for a couple. Great. A fancy Valentine’s party with pancakes. They hug and immediately feel awkward. He reminds her to stop by and see Luna. Literally, Luna’s story line is a TRAGEDY. She has been wasting away at that rescue for WEEKS? MONTHS? AND NO ONE HAS ADOPTED HER? And she’s still just so happy with her tail wagging? I can’t.

Julia and Daniel both drop in on the engaged couple’s dance class. They dance together and seem to like dancing.

Julia meets Gwen at her parents’ flower shop to do her interview. She shares why the flower shop is her favorite place. She doesn’t want to share why she “signed up” for the service. Obviously. She didn’t sign up. Gwen makes her answer anyway. Daniel sees her in the window with all his dogs.

Back at the office, Gwen shares that they realized they hadn’t done the work to not match people up again…like accidentally match ex boyfriends and girlfriends to each other. Julia realizes that the photo booth guy, Henry CAN’T be matched with Chloe because they dated already. Oh, that’s probably why Elizabeth only invited matched successful clients. Elizabeth arrives and is kind of passive aggressive PISSED that Julia made ALL KINDS OF CHANGES to the party.

Julia stops by to see Luna, who is out on a walk. Daniel asks if she’s avoiding him. She admits she’s been avoiding him. I hadn’t noticed. She says they have to cancel the photo booth because it would be too awkward for Henry to be working at a party where his ex girlfriend is attending. Because this is apparently a junior high dance. Daniel already knew and he and Henry talked about how Daniel is now dating his ex girlfriend and everyone is going to this party. Henry is fine with all of it apparently and just wants that paycheck!

Then Daniel admits he wanted to ask Julia out! Get it girl!! Wow. Then Chloe walks in after walking Luna. Wow. Daniel says he just took the hint that Julia is not interested because she was being SO AGGRESSIVE about the matchmaking. Then Chloe and Daniel tell Julia they aren’t going to the party. Poor Chloe. Always playing second fiddle.

Julia stops by the flower shop again. Her parents announce that Timothy is going to help out at the store. He finally found something he loves. They give her some generic career advice.

It’s party time! Everyone looks great. Elizabeth tries to be a good sport about all the changes. And then Julia shares that Daniel isn’t coming. Elizabeth gets an alert that, surprise surprise, Julia is a 100% match with Daniel. Wow. Did not see that coming. SUCH a surprise. Julia hides in the coat closet. Elizabeth’s husband finds her. He shares that the reason the party was always the same was because it was just like the party where he and Elizabeth met for the first time. That seems like a story worth sharing with her employees? He tries to get Julia to rejoin the party but she declines.

Out at the party, Julia of course has to give a speech. She thanks Elizabeth. Oh good, she didn’t work out her feelings in the speech. I was worried that was where we were going. Elizabeth catches her and says that she wants Julia to take over the firm. She is going to support Colin in Paris. Great idea Liz!

Julia sees Gwen taking a picture with a big fluffy cat. Then Luna arrives. Oh Luna. You poor baby. FINALLY. Julia is ready to get her. Then Daniel arrives. They look over and see Chloe dancing with Henry. So those two worked it out. And then Daniel says he came for Julia. He says he wonders what their algorithm would be. She says when she checked, it was 48%. He’s like, oh dang, that’s really bad. And then she continues…based on her answers from five years ago. Then she shares what their NEW compatibility is, which is, as we know 100%. And then, they KISS. And poor sweet Luna FINALLY gets a home. I really hope that Julia takes good care of her. They flash to all the party attendees and even Timothy found someone!

What did you think? Better than last week? Better than WinterFest?

Here we are! The next series of movies. Do they get better or worse? Which is the worst season of Hallmark movies, in your opinion?

Our lead is coaching a chef shooting some kind of something. Oh, looks like a TV series. Our lead is the host, Natalie Simmons. She and the chef do a take. It is TERRIBLE. The director gives zero bothers on either performance. Natalie seems pretty nit picky. Oh if she says “roulade” like that one more time….I swear. And then Natalie complains about three inch heels. Giirrrrrrl. Ted called by the way. He has to talk to her today. Uh oh.

She is FIRED. Her boss is like, girl, open your eyes. This show sucks. You suck. You’ve lost your edge and you’re no fun.

Back at her house, she has a mental breakdown and does jumping jacks. Her boyfriend seems like an angel by offering her chocolate ice cream. She’s like, I don’t like chocolate ice cream, remember? Wait, isn’t she supposed to be the protagonist? I’m rooting for her boyfriend now. He suggests she call her mom.

On the phone, she’s running and her mom is painting. Natalie can’t seem to stop exercising. I wish that was my problem. Trade out that chocolate ice cream for a giant box of Honey Comb and that’s me, girlfriend. Her mom wants her to come home…of course. For a Valentine’s Festival. Sh is co chairs with Natalie’s ex boyfriend’s mom.

The presumed ex works at a hardware store. His coworker asks how his date went last night. Not good apparently. Then the coworker’s wife lets him know how disappointed she is. They seem like a gross happy pair. Oh, this guy owns a hardware store AND is an artist.

At Steve’s Diner, the two moms work on the festival. Oh they are going to have a puppy kissing booth! I’m so there. Natalie’s mom mentions that she is coming home for a few weeks. Sue, the other mom is like oh. Neat. Natalie’s mom is like, what’s up? Sue is like, okay I have to tell you something. But then we don’t know what it is!

Outside, Sue says it was Zach’s secret to tell. Oh now these ol birds start scheming. They decide to try to get Natalie and Zach back together.

In the rental car, Natalie listens to a self empowerment audio book. And Natalie’s mom apparently goes ALL OUT for Valentine’s Day. She hung a giant weird collage over Natalie’s bed. Was it her high school vision board? This is the second movie this year where a high school vision board was saved and displayed by a parent. Natalie says she needs to go to the hardware store for festival supplies.

Her mom is like, in that? She’s dressed all fancy but tells her mom she’s wearing weekend heels. Wasn’t she just complaining about wearing three inch heels? Natalie’s mom calls Sue to fill her in.

Sue calls Zach and is like, girl you need to head to the hardware store ASAP. I need something. He drops what he’s doing at the art studio to to go the store.

Natalie arrives and recognizes the coworker, Eric. They catch up very briefly. Natalie is cagey about how she’s doing. She hands the coworker her list of items. Zach arrives and starts looking for his mom, I guess. And keeps missing Natalie. I do love Natalie’s outfit. Even if she is way too fancy. But I’d wear that outfit to work for sure. Natalie hears how the coworker met his wife. They met at the store.

Sue arrives pretending to be in a huff. She’s great. Dang, Natalie’s total is $92. Finally Sue tracks her down. And Zach sees her too. And then Sue asks Eric to help her with some grommets. So great. She’s just going to let the two of them catch up. What is Natalie doing here, he wonders? Natalie asks what brings him back…too? Oh, he lives here. She thought he would be “off doing his art.” He shares that he bought this hardware store a few years ago. She is really confused. And then she tries to be polite about it. and then they get really awkward.

She tries to take everything out to her car and Zach lets her… What is happening? He should insist. I would die. That COULD NOT have gone worse, for either of them.

At home, Natalie tells her mom she ran in to Zach. I’m loving her mom’s capes by the way. Oh and Natalie doesn’t want to talk about Zach anymore. But then she keeps talking about him. Natalie says her boyfriend Brooks is amazing. But her mom is like, we wouldn’t know. We’ve never met. Then Sue calls Natalie’s mom. They want her to help with auction items for the festival. Natalie doesn’t want to be helpful at all while she’s here. She’s fired? What difference does it make? Natalie agrees to help with the auction. Oh boy, And Zach is helping too. What a coincidence!!

Natalie freaks on her mom for pairing them up. Zach freaks out also. Sue is stealing the show. Actually I would rather watch a movie about these moms’ friendship. Then she meets Jess, who is married to Eric. Oh! Jess is in “It’s Time for YOU to Come Home for Christmas.” Then the moms set Zach and Natalie on a double date with Jess and Eric. Jess learns that they all go WAY back. Everyone is wearing jeans and Natalie is wearing tights and a skirt. Eric is on the mom’s team and says they don’t have room in their car for her. Okay. New plan. I want to watch a movie about Jess, Eric and the moms. Don’t care about these two.

On their way out to the car, Natalie yaps away to Zach about her dumb old job and immediately mentions the boyfriend. Who again, I’m rooting for over Natalie as well. At the car, Natalie asks how he’s doing. No girlfriend for poor old Zach.

They all head to Steve’s Diner. Natalie kind of complains. It’s not Jenny’s anymore? But don’t worry, the burgers are the same. Is Natalie too good for burgers? They talk about the festival. Oh, Eric and Jess have lost me. They asked for a “ fry bite” and like interlock arms and eat a fry. Gross. Is Natalie not eating? Is she too good for burgers? Oh, she almost has a panic attack? Why are only Jess and Eric eating?

Zach joins her outside and reminds her that this is where they had their first date. Natalie says he doesn’t have to do the “sensitive artist” thing. They agree to still help on the auction. Everyone is being real weird.

Natalie and Jess head to get twinkle lights.

Eric is like, Zach this is so painful. I’m having a hard time watching this. Why did you break up, anyway? Zach is like, oh it didn’t end well.

Natalie tells Jess that he went to art school instead of marrying her. They were about to get married and she had just gotten this job and he got into this art program. And she was willing to move but he said he wanted to just focus on art and not get married at all. So yeah, I might have flipped a table if I learned that he now owned a hardware store. Or laughed hysterically.

At home, Natalie talks on the phone with Brooks. He does not get up from the restaurant table he’s at to talk to her. Oh weird. She says she’ll talk to him next week. Are they not very serious?

Back at Steve’s, Natalie and Zach go over the auction items. They’re not great. Zach is judgey about her using a spreadsheet. They start arguing about the options. Aren’t they sort of limited to like, what people are willing to donate? They both finish their milkshakes and Zach tries to give her the rest of his and he dumps it all over her coat. She is really annoyed. Guess what, I believe that these two DON’T LIKE EACH OTHER. They genuinely seem miserable being around each other.

Zach suggests they donate a quilt with hearts on it. He knows a guy. The guys he knows is obviously an elderly woman. She does make beautiful quilts and I would definitely bid on one. Zach gets some shortbread cookies from her kitchen. The lady tells Natalie that whoever locks Zach down is going to be a lucky girl. As they leave, Natalie continues to be a grouch. Zach finally asks what’s wrong. And then Natalie just UNLOADS years of anger on him. Zach doesn’t know what to do with that information. He just stares at her dumbly.

They drive off in silence. Natalie turns on the radio in a huff. He drops her off and Natalie is still annoyed. She sees that Brooks has delivered flowers to her…Lillies; which she is allergic to. She inhales them anyway and sneezes. Would you sneeze with an allergy like that or would your throat close up? Inside, she has her dad throw them away.

Later, Suse and the mom are gabbing away in the kitchen. The mom drops a bomb. They haven’t met Brooks and Natalie’s been dating him for TWO YEARS. That is actually unacceptable. Meanwhile, Natalie is outside complaining to Brooks about Zach. Brooks has to run. He’s late for a meeting.

Back to Suse and the mom. They’re panicked that their little scheme isn’t working. Natalie heads out. She’s wearing a super cute skirt. Zach is waiting for her and brought her something. Oh bummer, Zach tells her to change into jeans. He has a surprise for her. And then she says she’s fine getting dirty in what she’s wearing. I would not be fine.

When they arrive at their destination, she decides that she does want the little snack that Zach got her. He got her the carrot cake as an apology for making fun of her boyfriend. And then he makes fun of Brooks’ name. Great work. They arrive at a barn.

The guy in the barn asks if they’re ready for some pickin’. Oh! Like the show American Pickers. Except in this movie, everything is organized and beautifully arranged and easy to find. They find old books and old Valetine’s cards. I hate this movie. It’s all I can do to finish it. Oh now Natalie is creating a back story for the pair attached to the Valentine’s cards. And to tell the story, they both have southern accents. It would be cute if I wasn’t already so annoyed by this leading lady. Then Natalie gets sad because this reminds them of how they used to be. She shares that she used to be more comfortable in her own skin and that she’s been accused of being inauthentic.

They leave with boxes of stuff. Zach shares that he’s really into “picking”. Then Natalie asks how he got started at the hardware store. He is like duh, I wasn’t making a living as an artist? So he started just working there. The previous owner asked Zach to clean out all the junk in the attic of the store. There were all kinds of treasures up there. I’m not sure if he sold them on his own or what? But I think that’s how he found the hobby and also enough money to buy the store? It’s unclear. Then Brooks calls. Total buzzkill.

At his workshop, ol Suse suggests that Zach tell Natalie the truth. ABOUT WHAT! I couldn’t care less honestly. Zach doesn’t see the point in digging up the past now. I mean, she has a boyfriend that her parents haven’t met. It’s SUPER SERIOUS.

The Fab Four start arranging auction items, I think. Or they’re just going through everything? The friend who’s name I forgot now asks if she and Zach are getting along. And Natalie is like, oh no I have a boyfriend. And it’s super serious but I actually don’t like him that much, now that I think about it.

Natalie is surprised that Zach still does art as a hobby. Natalie wants to see it. It’s pouring rain so poor Zach takes his sad little jacket and covers them with it to get to the car or to his workshop or whatever. It shouldn’t work but it does. Natalie is blown away at his artwork. I’m indifferent. Then she asks if he remembers the mug he made her. He calls it the first piece of art he ever made. Ugh. She asks why he never did anything with his art. Zach says he’s too practical for his own good. But like YES ZACH, you made the right choice okay? Then he asks if he can buy her a hot chocolate.

They start setting up for the festival. Zach asks if she ever misses their small town. She says what would she even do there? Then Zach says he watched all her shows. She admits that she got fired. She just lost her passion or something? Oh, burnt out. Yes. Thank you Zach.


Oh here we go, Zach needs to tell her something. Of course, Eric or Derek or whatever his name is interrupts. It was too early in the movie for the reveal anyway. Oh no, all the auction items are ruined because of the rain.

Natalie’s dad catches her running. EXCEPT HER HAIR IS DOWN. There is NO WAY she just went on a run without putting her long hair in a pony tail? Is she insane? But now she and her dad have a nice chat and stroll but I don’t really care what they’re talking about.

Later it’s time for the festival. It looks super cute and I think I would attend. Especially for the puppy holding booth? Oh geez. They’re so cute. Oh you don’t actually have to kiss the dogs right? Oh gross. No don’t charge people for that. Dog+a bunch of random other people’s germs? Everyone is going home sick.

Now it’s auction time. Natalie is TERRIBLE at this. Oh Zach is terrible too. Nobody wants to buy this quilt. Why isn’t this a silent auction? This is stupid. Oh and now Natalie wants him to make up a back story. Zach knows some stats about quiltmakers. Oh geez. This quilt has pieces of her grandmother’s handkerchief? Why is she selling it? Oh that backstory really got people going. This is stupid. Addy seems pleased that her quilt sold for $100. I don’t think that’s enough for a handmade quilt. Somehow these idiots doubled last year’s donations with their horrible disorganized approach to auctioneering.

The interesting couple heads out to dance. Zach asks Natalie to dance. This wordless dance scene is WAY TOO LONG. What is going on? Addy finally interrupts them. Addy says they made quite the team. Zach agrees with her. And oh, even Natalie agrees. They’ve been coming to this dance since she was 14. Oh, Zach drops a bomb on her. He never went to art school or Europe. He never sent the application in. He just didn’t want to leave his hometown but didn’t want to hold her back. Yikes. That is pretty insane. She understandably storms out. He didn’t want to hold her back. And she’s like, no you were scared. And he’s like oh yeah that makes more sense. And wow, ol Brooks shows up. Little late for that. He has really great news! He got her a meeting and booked her a flight for the next day? That seems weird that he would do that?

Oh wow. Brooks thinks getting her a meeting for a job is the best Valentine’s present ever. And he only showed up because it was close to where he was for work. What happened to the sweet guy offering chocolate ice cream from earlier?

The next day, Suse and Derek give him some advice after the disaster of last night. Derek’s wife and her parents are like hey he did this for you. And I am actually siding with Natalie here? Her dad thinks she should follow her heart. And then Brooks shows up again. I do actually think they are a better match. Like how could Zach moving to San Francisco and supporting her be holding her back? He just didn’t want to move? That is just so insane.

Oh good, Zach shows up to the house. He has a gift for her. And now we get a little speech from Zach but then Brooks interrupts again! So then Zach gives up and heads out.

Brooks and Natalie sit in the nicest airport waiting area I’ve ever seen. She finally decides to open Zach’s card. It says “loving you always and forever. I never stopped.” Instead of rolling her eyes so hard they fall out of her head, Natalie seems touched. Brooks is catching up on his shows. Now she looks in the box and it is that metal mountain sculpture she noticed in Zach’s workshop. I do like that as a gift. Obviously she is now in quite a quandary.

Back in San Francisco, Natalie interviews for a new job. The interviewer basically tells her all the reasons he likes her is all the reasons she got fired from her last job. And this seems to really trouble her. It truly sounds like a great opportunity but of course she is not sure.

Back at home, she tells Brooks she turned it down. She wants to be authentically herself and do something she’s proud of. Brooks is like, nobody wants to see who you really are. But apparently the guy she turned down did want that for her so they just changed the program I guess for her. So great. And then Natalie sees the mug Zach made for her. Then she starts quizzing Brooks. He actually doesn’t know anything about her which is weird because they’ve been dating two years. He doesn’t know her birthday. But I truly don’t fault him for not knowing that her favorite color is “mustard yellow.” That is a terrible favorite color so she’s wrong about that.

Natalie decides to rush to the airport to get back home I guess. Oh no. They won’t let her on the flight. So then she gives the flight attendant the whole story. And well, what do you know? Zach shows up. And hears her whole insane speech. The flight attendant tells her to turn around and well there you go. And now it’s Zach’s turn to give a little speech. And he asks her to be his Valentine and I throw my iPad across the room. And then they kiss. Finally. It took me an entire week to get through this movie it was so terrible.

Flash to them making a new TV show. Oh! It’s American Pickers but with these two. Alright, I might watch this show. Then the moms take credit and I’m fine with that.

Whew. We did it. I think we’ve got one more of these Valetine’s movies? I hope the next one is better.

Love in Winterland premiered on January 11 on the Hallmark Channel.

The movie begins with three girls watching NOT the Bachelor. Apparently one of the girls, Ally is actually on the show right at that time. But she’s only on it to promote her hotel. Apparently, they just film each episode each week and then air it?

CMM, (Brett) is shoveling at an Inn. Two workers micromanage him while he shovels.

At wok, Ally is going over interior decor with her boss. Another boss named Trish, asks about not the Bachelor. Apparently Ally’s not held captive while the show is filmed.

Later, Ally face times with her mom. Brett is over there helping her dad with something. Ally’s mom hands Brett the phone so he can face time too. They sort of bicker in a way that makes me wonder if they’re supposed to be siblings. But I know they’re not because it’s Chad Michael Murray!!

Hey that guy! Her dad pops in to say hello. He’s one of the great Hallmark dads.

The next day, Ally arrives at the bachelor mansion to get ready for the final date. This guy is perfect as NOT the Bachelor host. She sees the Bachelor. They chat formally. She keeps plugging the hotel while she’s talking. He’s like the cameras aren’t rolling. So she stops. Then they chat about how weird this whole thing is.

That night, the bar at the Winterland Inn is airing the NOT Bachelor. Brett hears a lot of commotion and he wonders if there is a sports game on. No, it’s the NOT Bachelor. He stands there watching and gets teased because his ex girlfriend is on the show.

Tanner picks Ally in the final round. Lauren, the producer, shares that for the final round, they are going to spend a week in her hometown. Ally panics a little.

Ally and her producer arrive at her parents’ house. They are going to do some filming for the show at her parents’ house. They go over some of the details. Molly, the mom gives Lauren the producer a handmade sweater. What is she? Mrs. Weasley? Ally’s parents seem to have had a Hallmark romance themselves. He was a Wall Street big shot and gave it up to run a ski shop in Vermont.

Molly has turned Ally’s room into a weight room. Which is amazing. For some reason, they left up a poster for the HEARTTHROB BOYZ on her wall and are the Hallmark set decorators laughing about that as hard as I am? What a gift.

Tom arrives, and meets Lauren And here comes Brett. Ally’s old flame. Ally is not staying with her parents apparently. She is staying at the Winterland Inn which maybe Brett owns or runs? And Ally is staying in the Snowbird Suite which she named herself. Ally’s parents are truly fantastic. That mom.

Later, Molly pours everyone a gallon of hot chocolate. They say they’re excited to meet Tanner. Apparently ol Tom is real big into NOT the Bachelor. That reminds Ally of cake, because obviously. And now she just goes after it with a fork instead of cutting a slice.

Later, Lauren and someone else work on some edits or something. Brett stops by with a package. He can’t help but watch some of the footage they’re editing. Lauren tells Brett she saw Ally’s high school vision board and Brett was ALL over it. For some reason Lauren is concerned. Brett stands in the hallway and wonders about the vision board himself.

Ally arrives at the Inn and sees Walter. She is surprised Walter still works there. HE gives her a cookie and it tastes just like she remembers. Brett is inside rage watching clips of Not the Bachelor. The Bachelor guy is hilarious. They’re like, he used to be in the coffee business, he’s a chef, and a pilot! How is he still single? It’s great.

Brett helps Ally up to her room. He asks if she really could see herself with this guy? And is she working so much that she doesn’t have time for love? They overhear EXTREMELY loud clips playing from Lauren’s room. Thy clip they overhear is her saying she’s not that excited to see Tanner. Then they fight over who will hold her suitcase. They fight so furiously that it falls over and somehow splits open?!! Girl is it time to get a new suitcase?

Then we hear what happened with them. They were supposed to leave together and he didn’t show up when it was time to leave or something? And she’s still mad about it? Girlfriend, hasn’t it been probably almost 20 years at this point?

In the morning, Ally calls her coworker and friend. There is a knock at Ally’s door. She thinks it’s Tanner but it’s Brett with a gift from Tanner. He comes in and she opens it. It’s a big snowflake. Brett helpfully returns her HEARTTHROB BOYZ CD to her. She left it in his truck ten years ago and of course he’s had the same car for ten years. He apologizes for everything. Then she apologizes too. She says he was right not to show up. Then Ally asks him to show her what he’s done to the Inn. Chad is just doing a great job in this movie.

Ally shares that she got into the hotel business because of his dad. Chad shares that his dad’s dream was to light up all of Main Street with candles. Weird dream. Walter brings Ally some hot chocolate. NONE for Brett. He can get his own. Ally says she misses hanging out in hotel lobbies. And she moves around a lot. The hotel biz, man.

They decide to go sledding. When are they filming the show? Where’s Tanner? Brett and Ally sled right into a crowd of people. Uh oh. Then Tanner arrives. Brett tells Tanner he’ll get him checked in. Is he British?

Tanner and Ally walk around the hotel or downtown? Not sure. She sees that a souvenir shop went out of business. She sees the owner leaving. The owner says it’s not the same without their long winters. She sees Mean Helene and tells Tanner not to make eye contact. Tanner is like, she seems nice. And Ally is like no. She’s the worst.

They go into a restaurant and Tanner uses the word “brilliant” so he must be British. And Brett is there of course. It’s still breakfast? Brett knows her breakfast order. My own husband wouldn’t know my breakfast order.

Tanner gives her a koala charm bracelet. Brett helpfully shares that the polar bear is her favorite animal. Jay suggested that my favorite animal is a meerkat. He’s not totally wrong.

Lauren, the producer shows up and asks if she’s ready for Tanner to meet her parents. Lauren kind of subtlety asks about Brett. Ally shares that she didn’t come on the show for the right reasons but that Lauren won’t succeed in stirring up drama with Brett. Nothing there.

In the hotel, Tanner is puttering around in the kitchen. Brett thinks it’s all an act. Tanner shares that he’s making his mom’s recipe of rhubarb pie. He doesn’t know if he likes it because he’s never eaten it but he wanted to do something impressive. Brett decides to help him and suggests he make French Silk pie, which is actually way more time consuming than what he was making. But obviously a better choice.

They arrive at Ally’s parents’ house. She is surprised that Brett knew her favorite kind of pie. OMG Lauren put up some photos of Ally and Brett. So great. Molly gets out some old photos for Brett.

They all have dinner. Tom helpfully shares that he knew he wanted to marry Molly right away. Oh boy. Brett arrives with s’mores from the Inn. Apparently Lauren ordered them. And then Lauren suggests that Brett stay. Oh boy. Ally gulps her wine.

Then, they all sit outside and roast s’mores. Tanner shares that his friend signed him up for the show. Ally says she can’t believe Tanner picked her. Brett, who is still there is like, why not! I picked her. She’s good enough for you! Which is kind of nice but also weird. Then Ally and Brett argue about which one of them asked the other out first.

Ally gets annoyed with Brett and asks to talk to him privately. They have a kind of heated conversation where Brett yells, how is he good at everything! And then she says the only person who ever hurt her was Brett so she’s good. They sit back down and oh boy this is awkward. Why doesn’t he just go home? Tom burns a marshmallow.

At the end of the night, Tanner says some nice things to Ally. They are about to kiss and then Ally realizes that everyone can see them and the camera is rolling. But the camera is rolling from inside the house and they’re outside. So what is the point of that?

In the morning, Ally finds Brett and says he owes her an apology. He’s sorry. Then they have a snowball fight. I LOVE her sweater. They go into a house that’s on the property that he must live in? They talk about his love life for a moment. Oh I like Brett’s sweater too.

Her dad helps her get all suited up for skiing. I like her overall snowpants. Ally grabs stickers from her dad’s shop. She is just a marketing wiz. Tom asks to see Tanner’s tax returns from the last two years. He panics. Then Tom laughs. Oh that’s great. Great dad joke Tom!!

Tanner and Ally chat while on the gondola about his past relationships.

Brett hate watches more NOT the Bachelor in the lobby. His coworker catches him. Apparently Brett also doesn’t believe in advertising and has all kinds of other difficulties. He agrees to go get another dog. Good idea Brett! That’s what this talk was about.

Tanner and Ally have a great ice on the slope. She sees a sign that says “Al’s run”. Apparently it’s been up all these years. It’s a very hard run but Tanner is up for it.

They walk around at a winter outdoor chili competition. Yes it would definitely be outside in the winter! Her boss calls. She wants Ally to run the new hotel in Phoenix. Yay! More hours! Ally hangs up because she sees that Brett entered the chili contest with MEAN HELENE. Oh no he didn’t. They get to work. Good luck cooking OUTSIDE IN THE WINTER. Also why are they putting carrots in chili? Have any of these people tried cooking outdoors in the winter? They’re just like using stove tops? It has to probably be like 20 degrees? Ally and Brett have a cute little fight over the chili. Tanner notices.

It’s time for the winner. Walter wins! Walter gives Ally some advice after his win. Tanner is chatting up Mean Helene.

Ally does some work.

Brett does some cooking at the restaurant. He says he’s putting a bunch of onions in the food in case Tanner tries to kiss Ally again.

At the diner the next morning, Ally shows up and interupts a bunch of olds eating breakfast. She has prepared a little presentation for everyone about how to revitalize the town tourist industry. She’s like did you guys know there are other seasons besides winter? People could go hiking and canoeing in the summer and stuff. Wow.

Later, she walks around with Brett. She shares that she’s moving to Phoenix for the job. She shares that she feels lonely in her job. Brett shares that he did actually show up in California a few months after she left. He had a whole speech planned out. He saw her with her friends laughing. She looked so happy and he didn’t want to get in the way. Oh he says he broke his own heart too. He presses on. He can’t spit it out before Lauren shows up. She wants him to finish what he was saying but Lauren doesn’t leave so he doesn’t say anything else and leaves.

They get her all miked up. Lauren gives her a little pep talk. She tells her to follow her heart.

It’s time for the Festival of Lights. It looks so pretty actually! Ally and Tanner sit around a campfire on camera. Tanner bends down and it looks like he might propose. Ally panics. And he’s like, what? It’s just my microphone flew off of me. She gives him her present. He’s like oh weird. We’re not looking at the camera in any of these. Then Ally is like why don’t you tell me what happened with your old girlfriend?

He shares about her. It’s boring. Right as they’re about to kiss, the lights all go out. The town’s circuits overloaded. What are they going to do? Ally has an idea. All the candles in the Inn’s basement like Brett’s dad wanted to do. Brett is there too. They get all the candles and pass them out. Brett gives a little speech. Oh yikes. Apparently once Ally said all you need for a good winter night is candlelight and friends. Oh yuck.

Ally gives a candle to Mean Helene. Helene apologizes to Ally for being mean as teens. Where is ol Tanner?

Tanner and Ally go into a building and talk. Ally says he’s really great but they don’t work. Tanner is like no we’re definitely not a match. He shares his real last name. They hug. Brett sees and misinterpets. Brett thinks he waited too long. He walks off.

Lauren tells them that they have to break up on camera. Hahah Ally says she’s not crying, it’s all the onions in the salad which are inexplicably by the campfire they’re sitting at. Hahahaa oh that’s great.

Later, Ally asks if she can hitch a ride home from Lauren. Then Lauren tells her she edited out several of her crying episodes.

Brett walks out of his house somberly.

Ally arrives at her parents’ house. She tells them she turned down the promotion in Phoenix. She’s going to stay in Winterland! She has big plans for the town! But she pauses to smell the stew her mom made. So great.


Ally is walking around outside and she gets a video message from Brett where he pours out his heart to her. And then the screen just goes black. Not how phones work but okay. She arrives at Brett’s and says she’s looking for someone like him AND A PUPPY. He looks like THE BEST BOY. His name is Buddy and I love him. Ally says Tanner wasn’t her happily ever after, which is the name of the NOT Bachelor on this show. ANd then they say a bunch of cringeworthy nonsense to each other. And then they are about to kiss and Brett asks if they’re on camera. She says no and they KISS. And Buddy just sits next to them and stares at them.