Holiday Touchdown: A Bears Love Story (2026) Movie Script
1
[audio logo]
[cheery music]
MAN (ON RADIO): And will receive
Yes.
Popcorn.
[cheery music]
[crowd chatter]
Get your popcorn here.
[cheery music]
Darlene?
Bernie?
Hi.
[laughter]
Have you been waiting long?
No.
No, no, no.
I just arrived.
[laughs]
Um, this is for you.
Oh.
I was gonna bring
flowers, but--
Oh, no, no, no, no.
This is-- this is
lovely, honestly.
And it doesn't need water.
Thank you.
- Well, should we--
- Are you--
- Sorry.
T- Sorry..
- Well, should we--
What were you gonna say?
Um, it's-- it's
almost kickoff,
so should we find our seats?
[laughs]
[cheery music]
BERNIE: Here we go.
I got tickets right here.
[cheery music]
I got ti[cheering]t here.
[cheery music]
[cheering]
[cheery music]
Well, I think we had them.
We had them up until the fourth.
And that fumble should
never have been blown dead.
I mean-- [sighs] What?
Nothing.
I'm glad you had a nice time.
You did, right?
It's-- it's so different
being there, you know?
Like, in the crowd, it's--
it's electric.
My grandfather would
Ltake me to see the Bears-
at Wrigley every Christmas.
Some of my best memories
are from those games.
Do you have a favorite?
Game?
Mm-hmm.
The next one with you.
[DONNY HATHAWAY, "THIS
CHRISTMAS"]
Hang all the mistletoe
I'm gonna get to know you better
HangThis Christmasetoe
The fireside is blazing bright
We're caroling through the night
And this Christmas
Will be a very special
Christmas for me
AMerry Christmasas
[bell ringing]
AVERY: Thank you so much.
Oh, thank you.
AVERY: Welcome.
Home for the holidays?
Oh, no, just visiting.
Merry Christmas.
Merry Christmas.
OK, here you go.
Anybody else need anything here?
I'll take a hot
toddy or a hug.
[screaming]
[laughs] I was supposed
to pick you up at the airport.
AVERY: I know.
I caught an earlier flight
to so I could surprise you.rt.
Oh, well, that's
my kind of surprise.
I caught an earlier flight
to so I coCome here.se you.rt.
Oh, I miss you so much.
Hi, mom.
Merry Christmas.
Merry Christmas, sweetie.
Wow.
MeDon't you look sporty?.
Oh, yeah.
It's-- it's game day.
- Oh.
- Oh.
And the Bears are
It'on a hot streakay.
since I started wearing these.
I didn't realize you
were so into football.
Oh, yeah.
RON: She's giving me
a run for my money.
Oh, honey, look who's here.
Hey, Avery.
How you doing?
Hey, Ron.
Hello.
Hey, Avery.
RON: [laughs]?
Hi.
Yeah.
- Thank you for having me.
- Well, of course.
It wouldn't be Christmas
without you, kiddo.
- Oh.
- You find the place OK?
Yeah, yeah.
Perfect.
JODY: Oh, shoot.
Here comes the rush.
I'm so sorry, honey, but my
bartender called in sick, so--
I'm--
- Yeah, take your time.
- OK.
- Yeah.
I'm--
- Yeah, taOK.your time.
I brought a book.
So excited.
Hey.
Best seat in the house--
- OK.
- --right next to the coach.
- OK.
COMMENTATOR (ON TV): Third
in the league right now.
This Bears team
has been explosive.
COMMENTATOR (ON TV): Third
Forget about efficiency.
This head coach won
explosive again, churning
out big chunks of play.
- Hey, can I get two more, Jody?
- Oh, yeah.
You bet.
MATT: Thank you.
COMMENTATOR (ON TV):
--to the left boundary.
Caleb Williams inserts--
MATT: Think they'll
go for it on fourth?
Caleb WillHmm? inserts--
I mean, it's
still early, but we
got to come away from this
drive with points, right?
Oh, I don't--
I don't know.
I don't really watch football.
[crowd groans]
I come here
for the peace and quiet.
So I won't be impressing
you with my in-game analysis?
Are you trying to impress me?
Well, I'm
at a disadvantage now that I
know you dislike football.
I don't dislike football.
I'm an impartial observer.
Completely neutral?
Switzerland.
CIt's like eggnog.?
I understand why
it's some people's
favorite at Christmas time.
But personally, I prefer cocoa.
favorite at Hmm.stmas time.
But persI like eggnog.er cocoa.
Is that strike 2?
Well, now you're
just mixing metaphors.
You should give it a shot.
No, it's too sweet.
It's like drinking dessert.
I meant football.
Oh.
Sadly, my forty's too slow.
Nothing like being at a Bears
game surrounded by thousands
of people, so cold, you can
barely feel your fingers,
watching athletes
at their absolute
best duke it out
for a chance to steal victory
from the jaws of defeat and--
I've lost you.
No.
I appreciate the passion, even
when it involves face paint.
Mm-hmm.
[laughs] Whatchu you reading?
I figured I'd read
something distinctly Chicago
while I'm in town.
Hmm.
Sinclair's The Jungle
not festive enough?
Hmm?
So you're not
from Chicago then?
New York.
I'm here visiting my mom.
I'm just here through New Years.
Hmm.
You got two weeks to see
what you're missing.
MAN: Yo D, we're up.
You MATT: All right. see
what yo- Hey.issing.
MAN: YoEnjoy.'re up.
Thank you, Jody.
Hey, are you really opting
for a book over the game
because you're not
interested in football,
or are you secretly a Jets fan?
Switzerland, baby.
[playful music]
RON: Hope you're ready
for a genuine Chicago Christmas,
the Christkindlmarket,
ice skating at the Ribbon,
zoo lights at Lincoln Park.
Babe.
He's been making a list.
And checking it twice.
Now, if anything strikes your
fancy, you just let me know,
and we will take you there.
Oh.
It's an actual list.
JODY: Maybe you packrats
could bond by emptying
your boxes in storage together.
Sounds like a great
stepfather-daughter activity.
your boxes You too.ge together.
In my defense, it's
20-odd years of life
crammed into a spare room.
Oh, come on.
RON: But I did promise
your mom that we would
turn it into a crafting area.
No, just eat the fries, honey.
It's OK.
turn it intNo, no.fting area.
I can't afford the extra
calories while I'm in training.
Are you training
for a marathon?
Christmas Market
Cornhole Tourney.
He's been on a strict
regimen for weeks now.
RON: Excellence requires
training and dedication,
hitting my daily
macros, also resistance
bands for your core and gluteus,
and a morning sudoku.
Do not underestimate
mthe mental component.e
He's so cute.
So did you go to Boston
and eat clam chowder?
I did.
So did you go to Boston
and eThe little--der?
The little oyster
crackers on top.
I love that.
AVERY: So good.
I thought you said
she was in Delaware.
I lovOh.hat.
Last month, right?
Yeah.
Life as a freelance
reporter, I never sit still.
I'll be in Spokane
after the new year.
Hmm.
I couldn't do it.
I'm a man of routine.
Got to wake up in my own bed,
have a strong cup of coffee,
and kiss my wife good morning.
I usually insist
on the kiss before the coffee.
[chuckles]
[phone vibrating]
It's Shaun.
He and Avery dated
a few years ago.
Oh.
Do we like him?
Mm-mmm-mm.
Yes, we like him.
No.
YeWe're friends..
He's on the Chicago
Herald city desk.
And when he heard I was
in town for Christmas,
he offered to introduce
me to his editor.
- Oh, that's nice.
- You're working?
You just got here.
- No.
- No, it's justce.
to make a connection.
I already did a few pieces
for them in the past.
COMMENTATOR (ON TV):
Here's the handoff.
Kyle Monangai off left guard.
He's in for the touchdown.
[cheering]
RON: They did it again!
[cheering]
[playful music]
[cheery music]
I'm so excited
for you to see it.
It's beautiful, Mom.
I'll take your bags upstairs.
Oh, you don't have to--
OK, thank you.
JODY: Come on in.
Well?
JODY: CWow.on in.
Oh, you haven't started
the family tree yet.
We were waiting for you.
RON: We were waiting
for the branches to fall.
[laughs]
Ron is very particular
about his trees.
We drove up to Palatine
to cut our own.
And we just walked up and down
that Christmas-tree farm
for hours.
But when we saw
this one, we knew
she was coming home with us.
[sentimental music]
Oh.
That was our trip to Maine.
Ron taught me how to fish.
I caught one on my first try.
AVERY: What?
You are full of surprises.
RON: This is for you.
You can open it if you like.
Now?
Oh, well, yeah.
It's from Ron.
RON: I hope it's the right size.
We got tickets to the game
before Christmas.
Now you're gonna fit right in.
AVERY: [inhales] Wow.
Thank you so much.
[laughs]
Should I get the lights
down from the attic?
Oh.
Should I get the lights
Avery's had a long day.
Oh, I'm never too
tired to trim a tree.
I'm assuming there'll
be cocoa involved.
Absolutely.
Bring on the tinsel.
All right.
Here we go.
JUNE: All right.
Bring [laughs]insel.
[serious music]
AVERY: No, I promise
you the best pain au
chocolat you will ever have--
Dallas Fort Worth, Terminal C.
Aves considers herself
an airport connoisseur.
Well, My mom
Dallaswas an Army nurse,nal C.
so I basically spent my entire
life living out of a suitcase.
You know, it's papers
like the Herald
that have always helped
me feel grounded,
connected because no
matter where you are,
you can always find
one on the newsstand.
coWell, I've admired
your work for a while.
you can always find
one oAVERY: Aww.tand.
MILES: I particularly
enjoyed your Everglades
piece for the Herald.
- Thank you.
MILES: Yeah.
So one of our reporters
is out on maternity leave.
And I was wondering
if you might be
interested in writing something
for us while you're here.
A local woman is about
to attend her 500th Bears game.
AVERY: Ah.
And I need
someone to cover it.
I don't really have any
experience covering football.
You won't be doing
color commentary.
It's a human interest.
You're great at that.
MILES: Yeah, feel-good profile
just in time for Christmas.
Her grandson's been
emailing us since October.
Very persistent guy.
I could take a look at it.
MILES: Wonderful.
I'll set you up with
the grandson's contact info.
His name is--
Matt Donnelly, station
the g46, ladder 21-23. info.
You had something
to do with this.
I may have thrown
your name out.
You know, sports is not
exactly in my wheelhouse.
You'll adapt.
You always do.
AVERY: Hmm?
Are those Mama
Jody's sugar cookies?
I wish.
Gingerbread from the bakery
across the street.
I thought you two baked
those every Christmas.
You know, I still dream
about those cookies.
Don't worry.
I'm sure mom will rope me
into frosting duty at some point
while I'm here.
You love frosting.
Hey, be nice, and maybe
I'll save you some.
I'm always nice.
Hey.
We should get coffee while
you're here, catch up.
- Text me.
- Yeah.
[cheery music]
Hey.
Excuse me.
I am looking for--
Switzerland?
[intriguing music]
Hi.
How'd you know I worked here?
I didn't.
Oh, you thought I
was here for you?
No.
No.
But can I help you
with something?
That's very
presumptuous of you.
Safety inspection?
Cat stuck in a tree?
Yeah, I don't
even know your name.
It's Matt.
Matt.
Matt Donnelly?
Yeah.
Your name's Matt Donnelly?
That or I stole his uniform.
Well, I'm here to cover
your grandmother's
story for the Chicago Herald.
Really?
Yeah.
Wow.
I started to lose hope
after my fifth email.
Wait.
I thought you said that
you were from New York?
Freelance reporter.
I go where the story is.
Oh, OK.
FreelanCool.porter.
Well, look, I'm sure that
you are a fantastic reporter.
And I really appreciate you
coming down here, but I'm--
I'm just not so sure that you're
yothe right person for this..
Dad, I'm heading out.
Swing by the store.
Your gran could use a hand
with a window display.
Sure.
And why not?
Well, 500 games is
a huge accomplishment.
And I think it should be
memorialized by someone
Well, 500 games is
who understands that..
Well, I might not
be a big football fan,
but I am a professional.
Mm-hmm.
Look, you can
turn me away, but
there's no guarantee that
they're gonna send someone else.
If you want the story
to be told, you got me.
Let's start over.
I'm Avery Clark, Chicago Herald.
Matt Donnelly.
Eggnog enthusiast.
Well, you can't know that
if we're just now meeting.
Of course.
Well, you can't know that
if we're jYeah.ow meeting.
So when can I meet
the woman of the hour?
Well, you can't know that
I can take you right now..
Oh.
Great.
And so, Avery
Clark, for the record,
you were actually here for me.
Yeah.
Yeah.
[cheery music]
Here we are.
[laughs]
Oh.
One last thing-- she
doesn't know about this.
She hasn't even
agreed to the story?
I thought it'd be
a fun Christmas present.
[cheery music]
Oh.
Hey, Mom.
Hi, sweetie.
Matthew.
Is everyone
behaving themselves?
Just barely.
Is everyone
Avery, this is my mom, Sarah.
Hi.
Nice to meet you.
These two firecrackers
are Bonnie and Sheila,
Gran's best friends and 2/3
of the Gramma Bears.
Gramma Bears.
Go, Bears.
GramBears.rs.
Go, Bears.
Is Gran in?
She's getting more
tinsel from the back.
Oh.
All right.
[cheery store music]
You have any
shopping left to do?
I do need a gift
for my mom's husband.
OK.
What's he like?
- I don't know.
I'm still getting to know him.
He and my mom had sort
of a whirlwind romance.
IDo you have gift cards here?.
That feels
a little impersonal.
It's practical.
That feels
Less likely to be returned.
Yeah, but it's
the thought that counts.
Well, I thought he
might like a gift card.
Did you?
Yeah, I'll keep looking.
Well, hello.
Gran.
I would like to introduce
you to Avery.
I didn't know you
were seeing someone.
Oh, no.
It's not like--
Aren't you pretty.
Oh.
Thank you.
I really love your jacket.
And so polite.
Matt, why haven't
we met her sooner?
How long have you been dating?
BONNIE: Is she
coming to Christmas?
Do you have any food allergies?
I do you have
a sensitivity to tree nuts.
Yeah, Avery is with
the Chicago Herald.
And she's here to write
an article on you.
On me?
MATT: Yeah.
What for?
- You're about to hit 500 games.
- Oh.
Well--
It's a milestone that
not many people reach.
We'd love to share
your story with the readers.
It's a milestone that
I am hardly newsworthy.
What?
Yeah, but we could shine
a light on the community and--
and highlight all those
charities you work so hard for.
You should do it.
Mm-hmm.
Well, what would I need to do?
Well, I just want to observe
your world, you know,
visit meaningful
Well,places to you, maybeo do?
learn some game-day traditions,
just spend time with you.
Well, all right.
Wonderful.
We can start tomorrow
if that works for you.
Oh, I have a Christmas
reading at the Boys
& Girls Club at 1:00.
You and Matt can meet me there.
Me?
Well, this is your idea.
He can show you around.
I'm not as nimble
as I used to be.
Oh.
That's news to me.
DARLENE: Well, I still have
half of a shopping list.
I've got Christmas
market and Bears Care.
Wait.
What's Bears Care?
That's the team's charity.
And Bears Care is hosting
a fundraiser at Halas Hall.
And I'm helping
with the auction.
Well, I--
I can't do a profile
about you without you.
Oh, of course, you'll have me.
But Matt here, he could give you
some context, some background.
Well, you were always
saying that you were going
But to lose those vacationve you
some condays that werekground.
banked by the end of the year.
And so-- right?
Right.
Yeah, I-- I suppose
I can pitch in.
Great.
Yeah, I-- I suppose
ISee you there.
[cheery music]
Matt, post office
doesn't go there.
Why not?
Next to the jolly chocolatier.
Think of the parking nightmare.
Next to th[laughter]ocolatier.
That reporter seemed very nice.
I was wondering
how long it was
gonna take you to bring her up.
Is she seeing anybody?
Well, Gran, I don't
know because we just met,
and I am not looking to get into
another relationship right now.
Well, you can't
stay on the sidelines
forever if you're
not in the parade.
You watch the parade.
Yeah.
YouAnd that's life.e.
You remember you
got me this one?
You were, what, eight?
MATT: Yeah.
Every town needs a fire station,
even the miniature ones.
Have you talked to your dad?
No.
I still don't even know if I'm
gonna request a transfer.
Well, if you're ready
to move on, he'll understand.
Just be honest with him.
Yeah.
Yeah.
I'll talk to him.
Yeah?
After Christmas.
[grunts] OK.
[laughs]
AVERY: Oh.
What about, like, a tea
of the month subscription?
I've never seen Ron drink tea.
OK, well, you got
to give me a lead.
I'm at a total loss.
Honey, this
vacation is about you
two getting to know each other.
Three weeks under the same
roof, you'll know his shoe size.
So you're telling
me he needs shoes?
JODY: Aww.
Look.
JSo cute..
Hey, Mom, just
between you and me,
don't you think all this rah-rah
fan stuff is a little bit much?
Team spirit is like
Christmas lights.
You can never have enough.
That is your entire
holiday philosophy.
If you aren't blinded
by cheer, you aren't trying.
That is your entire
holid[laughter]phy.
So I'm thinking tonight,
me, you, caroling just
like the good old days.
I'm so sorry, honey.
I've got to shift
to cover tonight.
But we're hosting Christmas
karaoke later in the week.
[laughs]
I don't know why
I always assumed
you'd spend retirement
playing pickleball,
not running a sports bar.
At first, I would just
pitch in occasionally.
But then I got
to know the regulars.
And there's this real
sense of community.
AVERY: Hmm.
Just enjoyed
spending my time there.
It's been this crazy,
wonderful surprise.
Aww.
And we play pickleball
on Tuesdays.
Hm.
Hey, Santa.
Hello.
Merry Christmas.
Merry Christmas.
So tell me more
about this story.
I'm doing a profile
on a woman who's about to attend
her 500th Bears game, Darlene--
Donnelly?
You know her?
Yeah, I know her whole family.
They live a few blocks from us.
YeaHer son is Ron's friend.ly.
Oh.
YeaHer soSmall world.riend.ly.
They'll be
at our Christmas party.
You'll meet all of them.
Have you talked to Darlene yet?
A little bit.
She's hard to pin down.
Yeah, she is.
DARLENE: He delivers
She'the final giftsown.
to Logan Square
in Michigan Avenue, waves
goodbye to the lake shore,
and laughs a jolly ho,
ho, ho for everyone to hear.
Heading back home to his cozy
workshop at the North Pole,
Santa hopes each child is extra
good next year because he can't
wait to come back to Chicago.
The end.
[cheering]
Any questions?
Yes?
Does Santa like football?
You didn't hear it from
me, but Santa is a Bears fan.
[cheering]
SANTA: I'm going to have
to expand my nice list.
Ho-ho-ho.
[laughter]
There you are.
Oh, Merry Christmas.
Ho-ho-ho-ho-ho.
Matt.
Avery.
Hi.
What a nice surprise
to see you both here.
Christmas really does
bring people together.
Gran, you invited us.
And you came.
GranWell, so long.us.
Wait.
What?
What about the interview?
Oh, I apologize.
The reading ran
long, and I've got
to get my last-minute
Christmas gifts
before the stores get too busy.
OK.
Well, I can go
shopping with you.
No, I can't have that.
You're on the list.
Really?
We just met.
DARLENE: So?
I like you.
Aww.
I'll probably
have time tomorrow.
In fact, I'll text you.
Does Matt have your number?
Yes.
Wonderful.
What do you think
of scented candles?
Well, I said too much already.
OK.
[laughs] Sorry about that.
I didn't know
she'd be this busy.
Candy cane?
Yes.
CanYeah.ne?
[playful music]
[coughs]
Oh.
What is that?
Malort.
It's a rite of passage
for anyone new to the city.
[groans] Don't put
it on the brochure.
Matty, your dad
ready for Saturday?
[groans] Don't put
You know what Dad says?
When you stay ready--
--you don't have to get ready.
Ron and my dad are partners
for the bags tourney.
Defending champions
of the bags tourney.
Ron and my dad are partners
for theMm-hmm.ourney.
Bags?
Cornhole.
Didn't realize that
was such a popular sport.
Oh, yeah.
Didn't realize that
was suchYou play?r sport.
Never tried.
Oh.
Thank you for the cocoa, Ronald.
And a Merry
Christmas to you all.
That guy's everywhere.
Nice guy.
Comes by every December.
Hm.
This seems like
a summer sport.
This is
a drink-in-hand league.
You got to have at least one
drink in your non-throwing hand.
If a bag stays on the board,
it's worth one point.
You gAny bag that fallst one
drink through the hole,ing hand.
that's gonna be worth three.
Now, set up north by northeast
so that Chicago wind
won't play favorites.
It's all about stance,
swing, follow-through.
You want to aim low
because that bag will slide.
They're gonna tell
you all about things.
They're gonna say that it's
babout your release point,e.
but they would be wrong.
It's all in the spin.
Oh.
Makes sense to me.
OK, repeat it.
I think he explained it
perfectly the first time.
[playful music]
I think he explained it
perfectly [thud]rst time.
Ah.
[laughs]
Hooow?
[thud]
Ha-ha!
Wow.
We need to foster this talent.
I'm getting the training bags.
Yeah.
This is fun.
You seriously never
played this before?
No.
Must be beginner's luck.
[thud]
MATT: What?
[laughter]
She's a prodigy.
[cheery music]
CHIEF: Hey.
Great job out there, guys.
ALL: Thanks, Chief.
I got a date tonight.
- With Bethany?
- Yep.
It's our third.
I'm taking her
skating at the Ribbon.
Hope I'm not on call
when he sprains a wrist.
[phone ringing]
Hey, Gran.
What's up?
Hey.
Are you here to see Gran?
Hi.
I am.
Huh.
That's a funny coincidence.
She just called me about
her garbage disposal
making a weird noise.
And that is not
a coincidence at all.
No, it's not.
And that is not
a coinciRight.at all.
Well, are you two
coming in or not?
If you have plans with
Avery, I can come back later.
No, no, no.
I'm worried about
that exhaust fan.
You mean about that
garbage disposal?
Yes, of course.
That's what I meant.
There's a rattling.
Hi, Darlene!
Oh.
Afternoon, Betty.
Lovely weather we're having.
Are we still
on for cards tonight?
You betcha.
Grandma had me pick up some
pretzels and dip at the store.
Wonderful.
See you then.
I keep all my tickets
in this album.
Oh, 1982, the Bears' first home
game against the Detroit Lions
I keep all my tickets
after the strike.
We won 20 to 17.
Disposal sounds
fine, but I did
change the light over the oven.
Disposal sounds
fOh, thank you.
So helpful.
Handsome and handy,
don't you think?
Standing right here.
Handsome and handy,
Well, why don't you join us?
Oh, come on.
Handsome and handy,
Well, why No, no.ou join us?
There's more room next to Avery.
Is there?
Yeah.
[playful music]
[clears throat]
Why the Bears?
Well, I always enjoyed
watching the games
with my family on television.
But the first game that I
went to at Soldier Field
is when I truly fell in love
with the Bears and the man
that I would marry.
I was introduced
to Bernie through friends.
He was the sweetest
man I had ever met.
May I?
[sentimental music]
DARLENE: After that game, I
just knew that I was gonna spend
the rest of my life with him.
[cheering]
We went to every game-- to
preseason, road games, playoffs.
[cheering]
Those teams were special.
And we felt a part of it.
7, 6, 5, 4, 3, 2, 1.
[cheering, screaming]
[sentimental music]
[cheer[cheering]ming]
Of course, there were years it
wasn't easy to be a Bears fan.
[crowd groaning]
There was a lot of heartbreak.
Bernie never gave
up hope, though.
He always believed
things could get better.
[groaning]
Bernie passed eight
years ago, but
I still wear his favorite
blue scarf to the games.
I'm so sorry.
IWell, it's kind of likee
he's still there with me.
So when did you
realize that you were
about to hit your 500th game?
When I reached the last page.
I could hardly believe it.
Time is moving so quickly.
It kind of gets away from you.
Do you have a favorite game?
Oh.
I don't think I could choose.
No.
Each holds a memory.
There's a lot of life in there.
I'd like to show you something.
[mysterious music]
There is a signed
jersey of the 1985 team.
There's Refrigerator
Perry, Walter Payton.
And there's Mike Singletary.
The only Bears team
to win a Super Bowl.
A season, we are
soon to repeat.
MATT: Mm-hmm.
Now, did you know
that the Bears are one
of the two original NFL teams?
No.
Oh, we've come this
far on grit and hope.
It's got to be
our time again soon.
That is a winning attitude.
Well, that's the spirit
of a Bears fan--
resilience, optimism.
You know, if there's
still time on the clock,
there's always a chance.
Are you getting this?
Oh, yeah.
Spirit of a Bears fan-- time
on the clock, resilience.
OK, then let me tell you
about October 21, 1985.
We are playing the Packers,e
on and we have just--nce.
[sentimental music]
We are playing the Packers,e
on aWait, wait, wait.nce.
Seriously.
Let me get this straight.
You've covered Titans
of industry and
corrupt politicians, and yet
your most challenging subject
has been a sweet grandmother?
She is giving me
a run for my money.
But you know me.
I love a challenge.
No, she's-- she's amazing.
She's spunky and interesting.
I think I might have
a real story here.
You're always
gonna find it, Aves.
There's never any doubt.
How are you enjoying the city?
You know, it's-- it's
actually really growing on me.
Hm.
You know, there might be a staff
position on the city desk
opening up in the new year.
I can let Miles know
you'd be interested.
You mean stay in Chicago?
Every think about staying
in one place for a little while?
Ooh.
I got to get back
to the newsroom.
Think about it.
Yeah.
Yeah?
[serious music]
Hm.
[mellow music]
MATT: Hey.
Hey.
Peppermint mocha
or double chocolate?
Oh, double chocolate.
Where's Darlene?
She's finishing up
inventory at the store.
Said she'd meet us here.
Uh-uh.
I promise, this
Saiis not some thinlyre.
veiled matchmaking attempt, OK?
She really is working.
- OK.
And besides,
the sleigh ride cruise
is one of her favorite
Christmas traditions.
She never misses it.
is oYou get to seerite
the harbor all lit up.
It's really pretty spectacular.
She'll be here.
Hmm.
Maybe I'll call just
to see if she's close.
[intriguing music]
And I think I just
got sent to voicemail.
Well, we better get going.
Boat's about to leave.
You still want to go?
What can I say?
You sold me on it.
Nice.
YouHey, Santa. it.
Oh.
Hot cocoa?
Oh.
Merry Christmas.
Merry Christmas.
Hmm.
Peppermint.
[horn blowing]
MATT: My dad used to always talk
about how he was so proud to put
on the uniform, but I
never really understood
that until I got my turn.
And I-- I like going
to work knowing
that, at any given moment,
I can have a positive impact
on someone's day.
It must be nice
working with family.
on somYeah.s day.
What?
I got the top slot in our
lieutenant promotion exam.
Congratulations.
Thanks, but I am
considering transferring
to a different station.
Why?
Because, for my entire
career, I've worked for my dad.
And sometimes I wonder
if I've really earned it.
Well, did your dad
grade the lieutenant exam?
[peaceful music]
No.
Well, there you go.
[laughs]
OK, best gift you ever got.
- Am I being interviewed?
- Yes.
I take my job very seriously.
Of course.
Matt Donnelly, Darlene's
Igrandson, local firefighter.
Great conversationalist,
devastatingly handsome.
Matt Donnelly, Darlene's
IgPlease don't editorialize..
Fifth grade, I got a red
double-kick skateboard.
You skateboard?
Not even a little.
But for those brief few
hours Christmas morning,
anything was possible
until I sprained my wrist.
Ooh.
Yeah.
My second-favorite gift was
the helmet that came with it.
Well, that makes sense.
Yeah.
How about you?
Eighth grade, a pair
of silver earrings that--
I had been shopping with
my mom months before.
And I saw them on display.
I didn't even tell
her that I liked them.
And they weren't even
Andparticularly fancy.lay.
But I don't know.
There was just
something about them.
I loved them.
And she-- [sighs] she noticed.
It meant a lot that
she had remembered.
Here.
Oh.
Come here.
[romantic music]
Thank you.
[phone vibrating]
Hi, Mom.
Hi.
What's up?
She's where?
ALL: (SINGING) Deck the halls
with boughs of holly
Fa, la, la, la,
la, la, la, la, la
Tis the season to be jolly
Fa, la, la, la,
la, la, la, la, la
Don we now our gay apparel
She stopped by to pick up
the donation box, and she
said the "vibe" wasn't "merry".
(SINGING) Troll
the ancient yuletide carol
Fa, la, la, la, la, la, la
This is them
there third encore.
It's so cute.
Nice, Mom.
Oh, wait.
Everybody, I see some elves
here who want to help us.
JODY: Yes.
Right here.
Right here.
- Mom.
No, no, no.
We're not-- we're not singers.
Matt, don't leave your grandma
hanging at Christmas.
SANTA: That's how you'll
Wwind up on the naughty list..
[laughter]
[cheering]
Hit it, Mojo!
You got it, Darlene.
(SINGING) Deck the halls
with boughs of holly
Fa, la, la, la, la,
la, la, la, la, la
Tis the season to be jolly
Fa, la, la, la, la, la, la, la
Don we now our gay apparel
Fa, la, la, la,
la, la, la, la, la
Troll the ancient yuletide carol
Fa, la, la, la, la, la, la, la
[cheering]
All right, Darlene.
Here you go--
two Chicago fizzes.
Thank you, Mom.
Oh, thank you.
Cheers.
Cheers.
Your singing was lovely.
Thank you, Betsy.
I sang too.
Tough crowd.
Was I really that bad?
The big question
is, did you have fun?
Surprisingly, yes.
Good.
Life is precious.
You got to fill it with
as much joy as you can.
And just how were
you planning on getting
this to the firehouse?
With your help, of course.
Of course.
Great singing, Gran.
DARLENE: Thank you.
I sang too.
DARShe was good.ou.
I was.
You were.
[cheery music]
[laughter]
All right.
This one's ready to go.
Oof.
Ooh, what happened to you?
MATT: He had a date.
I'm not gonna say
OohI told you so, but--ou?
MATTMild sprain.ate.
I'm not gonna say
OohI tolWorth it. but--ou?
Love always is.
Light-up walkie-talkies.
Gee, who's more excited
for these toys, you or the kids?
All these go
to local hospitals?
MATT: Yeah.
We bring them in the truck,
put on a whole show for them.
You want to see inside?
Yeah.
Go on.
I got it.
[mellow music]
All right.
So that's our radio.
That's how we get
all of our calls.
This gives us the map so we
know where we're going.
Santa has nothing on this.
Oh, no.
Makes a heck of a statement.
We really put
on a show for the kids.
We do the lights,
the sirens, all of it.
We really put
Is that how you turn it on?
Yeah.
Not now.
Spoilsport.
I'll make it up to you.
Promise?
[door squeaks]
All packed up.
Time for elf duty.
[playful music]
OK.
RON: I'm headin' to the bar.
OK.
[jingles bells]
[laughs]
RON: But I'll be
back for the party.
And I got those
eggs you asked for.
- Oh, thank you, honey.
back f- Eggs?party.
Are we finally gonna make
your famous sugar cookies?
JODY: Oh, no.
I'm making gingerbread cookies
for the Christmas market.
I'm helping at one
of the booths.
So you and Matt have been
spending a lot of time together.
Yes, he's helping
me with the story.
Hmm.
So is there anyone
back in New York?
You can tell me
things, you know.
I miss talking to you.
I have been on a few first
dates, fewer second dates.
But you know, I--
I think I'm finally
in a place where I'm
ready for something serious.
What about Shaun?
We're better as friends.
Hmm.
How did you know
Ron was the one?
[sentimental music]
How did you know
[giggles] Oh, um.
When I started missing
him when he wasn't there,
I would offer to help at the bar
just to be around him.
WhenSome people justng
him wsneak up on you.ere,
And then one day, you
realize you're better
together than you were alone.
I just want to be with
someone who makes me feel--
[squeals]
Mm-hmm.
Yeah.
He's out there.
Thanks, Mom.
He is.
ThanHi. Mom.
Come on in.
Good to see you.
Merry Christmas.
You look so-- I love your hair.
CHIEF: I've been
sneaking in some practice
behind the station.
And it's just like
last year, split custody.
The trophy spends
two months with me.
And then it's going to be
back to you for two months.
You're gonna love it.
Oh, I love your sweaters.
Sheila can make
you one to match.
Oh, absolutely.
More than happy to.
I would love that.
Oh, you mean now.
Mmm.
I'm so happy you're
writing about our Darlene.
It's time she had
her moment in the sun.
I was afraid to ask.
Yeah?
Who do you root for?
My friends and family.
No, no.
Who's your team?
I don't have one.
We'll make a Bears
fan of you yet.
Perfect timing.
This is our year.
We say that every year.
And we mean it.
When you've got the Iceman on
your team, anything is possible.
Yes.
Go, Bears.
Go, Bears.
Go, Bears.
ALL: Go bears
Who wants Italian beef?
[cheering]
Who wYes, protein.beef?
No bun.
Don't judge me.
SARAH: Dipped or dry?
Oh, she wants
it double dipped.
You'll love it.
Oh, pass it down.
[clamoring]
DARLENE: Oh, my god.
You're going to love it.
JOHN: Here it goes.
[crunch]
That's a bite.
[cheering]
That's a bite.
JODY: So good.
[laughter]
You want some help?
Quick.
Get in here before my mom sees.
Are we washing the dishes
or stealing them?
Well, it's the good silver.
How big are your pockets?
No, seriously, if she saw
us, she'd want to help.
And she deserves
to have a good time.
Oh.
OK.
Yeah.
Thanks.
[laughter, cheering]
So far ahead.
No problem.
No problem.
The mom, the dad,
three kids, and the dog.
And I just go blank.
I mean, I don't remember
any of the words.
Isn't it just, "We wish you a
Merry Christmas" over and over?
I mean, I don't remember
I was five, but yes.
Isn't i[giggles] Afterh you a
Merrthat, my mom insisted over?
I mean, I don't remember
we bring the lyrics book.
Do you guys still go
caroling every year?
No.
Not anymore.
Things are different now.
Say more.
Well, we're in a bit
of a transition.
My mom's remarried.
She's in a new city, a new
house, running a sports bar.
She's fishing?
She's so settled.
And I'm just not totally
sure where I fit into it all.
Have you told
her how you feel?
[cheery background music]
I think it might be silly to
expect things to stay the same.
People change.
Yeah, but just because your
relationship looks different
now doesn't mean it can't be
wonderful in its own new way.
You know, when old
traditions fall away,
now doesn't mean it can't be
it creates space for new ones.
[cheery background music]
[sentimental music]
I liked your piece on the
Everglades Restoration Project.
You read that?
MATT: Yeah.
You're really talented.
Thank you.
It's not just words on a page.
You know how to make the reader
really feel something.
I am really glad that
you're the one who
You know how to make the reader
came by the station that day.
Well, look.
You two are under the mistletoe.
Oh, no, you don't have to--
Well, it is tradition.
[calm music]
OK, you got to cool it
with the matchmaking, Gran.
There is nothing wrong
with a gentle nudge.
You can't keep pushing
Avery and I together
just because you like her.
- I'm not.
I'm doing it
because you like her.
We're only spending time
together because of the article.
Oh, do not lie
to your grandmother.
It's Christmas.
Yes, ma'am.
["o christmas tree" playing]
O, Christmas tree
O, Christmas tree
How lovely are your branches
O, Christmas tree
O, Christmas tree
What a wonderful evening.
Thank you so much.
And Nicole tells me
that you're doing
a piece on Darlene Donnelly.
Yes.
500 games is
a tremendous achievement.
Indeed.
Do the Bears ever do
anything special to recognize
that kind of milestone?
We have
fan-appreciation games and
even an annual Fan of the Year.
I know this is
super last minute,
but I think Darlene would
be a really great contender
for something like that.
I agree.
Let me see what I can do.
Thank you.
Do you mind if I get
a quote for my article?
Of course.
Do you mind if I get
a quote fGreat.article?
Nicole Bower, head of event
planning for the Chicago Bears.
Tell us a little bit
about Bears Care.
The Bears believe in giving
back to the community
that gives us so much.
We work with not-for-profit
partners across Chicagoland
to extend our reach
to children and families
in neighborhoods,
where our resources
can make a significant
positive impact on their lives.
This time of year is
to help spread cheer
to families facing
significant hardship
during this holiday season.
That's perfect.
Thank you so
Mm-hmm.
Enjoy.
ALL: (SINGING) Joyful
all ye nations rise
Join the triumph of the skies
With angelic hosts proclaim
Christ is born in Bethlehem
Hark the Herald angels sing
Glory to the newborn king
[cheering]
[laughter]
She really does just make
friends wherever she goes.
She has that effect on people.
Last-minute
Christmas shopping?
Maybe.
Let's see.
Ooh.
Your colors.
Understated.
I like it.
Hey, have you had
a chance to check out
the Lincoln Park Zoo lights yet?
It's one of my favorite
places in the city,
especially at Christmas.
You never miss
their tree lighting.
Yeah.
You never miss
How did you know that?
Your grandma.
Ugh.
I also know all
of your favorite foods and
your high-school superlatives.
Yeah.
I am sorry about that.
She's definitely--
Persistent?
Romantic.
But you know, still, she
doesn't even know if you're
seeing someone or not.
Well, it's hard
to build things,
you know, when you're never
in one place for too long.
It takes a toll
on relationships.
Is there a reason behind
her matchmaking campaign?
Oh, you know, boy meets
girl, boy loses girl,
boy buries heartache
at work, perceptive
grandmother intervenes.
boy buries heartache
at work,Oh.rceptive
Yeah.
My ex and I were
together for a long time.
And then she got a job
offer in San Diego
that she couldn't pass up.
And I didn't want her to.
It was a great opportunity.
Couldn't survive the distance.
It hurt, but she was right.
You know, it wasn't practical.
I guess, some obstacles
are too big to overcome.
Yo[mellow background music]al.
[background chatter]
Tell you what-- some
of these kids are gonna
put you players out of a job.
Yeah, but I'm good, right?
Right?
[muffled conversation]
[background chatter]
Well, you asked,
why the Bears?
This is it.
Well, I know it,
can seem silly, you
know, from the outside--
the jerseys,
and the tickets,
and the pictures.
But it brings people together.
There's an awful lot
of love in this room.
[sentimental music]
RON: Avery?
Oh, hey.
Come on.
Oh.
Hey, Ron.
What are you doing in here?
RON: Just going through all
this stuff for your mom.
Mm-hmm.
Oh.
You look so proud.
That was the day I
bought the Irish Nobleman.
It's a cornerstone
of the neighborhood.
You know, Coach Ditka
owned it for a while?
It's - Whoa.rstone
of - Yeah, yeah.ood.
YoAnd when they werea
owselling it again,e?
I just couldn't stand the idea
of it closing for good, so I
scraped up every penny I
had, borrowed a few more,
and the rest is history.
And you were in sales
before that, right?
Yeah.
Yeah.
Thought I always would be.
That seems like
something you'd be good at.
I was, but sometimes, you
just don't know what you're
missing until it shows up.
This is the best thing
that ever happened to me.
It gives me a sense of
fulfillment, gave me your mom.
Well, I thought you
guys met at a Bears game.
Oh, we did, technically,
fulin the concession line.mom.
Well, I thought you
guys met aYeah?ears game.
I got so flustered.
Well, I thought you
gThose hazel eyes, right?
I spilled my drink all over her.
Well, I thought you
gThose hazYikes.s, right?
Yikes, indeed.
I was so embarrassed,
I didn't ask
for her phone number, regretted
it the entire ride home.
And the next day, she
comes walking into my bar.
[intriguing music]
Of all the gin joints.
Christmas miracle.
[laughs] What you got here?
Homework from Darlene.
Oh.
How's the article coming?
Pretty good, actually.
I got a whole 30
uninterrupted minutes with her
before she had to run
to her pottery class.
She is a spark plug.
before she had to run
to hThat is true.ass.
RON: [laughs] Hey, Avery?
Yeah?
I'm really glad
you're here with us.
Me too.
[sentimental music]
[cheery music]
JODY: Hey.
AVERY: Hey, Mom.
Need any help?
AVYeah, sure.om.
[sniffs]
Oh.
I remember this Christmas.
We were in Grafenwoehr.
AVERY: Oh.
You knit that sweater for dad,
the snowflake sweater.
AVEOh. Oh.
I had just learned.
AVLook.Oh.
The sleeves are
different lengths,
but he insisted
on wearing it all day.
Oh.
Gosh, I miss him so much.
Yeah, I know, honey.
So do I. Oh.
Look at you
in your little apron.
How come you haven't
asked me to make frosting?
We used to make sugar
cookies every Christmas,
and you haven't
even mentioned them.
We uWell, I didn'tgar
cothink you wanted to.s,
You've been so busy.
We uWell, I didn'tgar
I would have made time.,
[sentimental music]
Everything is so different now.
It's-- [sniffs] it's like a
whole other life in these boxes,
you know?
I just don't really know
what that means for us.
How long have
you felt like this?
[sentimental music]
Since Ron?
Yeah.
I mean, it's not
Ron's fault, you know?
It's no one's fault, really.
I think being here,
I realized that we're
not as close as we used to be.
Oh, no.
Avery, I love you so much.
There is no one more
important to me than you.
Mm.
I've really loved being here.
Well, this is your home
too, even when you're off
jetsetting across the country.
[sniffs]
OK?
OK.
Shaun said that there might be a
full-time position at the Herald
for me if I want it.
Do you?
I love the freedom
of freelance reporting,
but I think it's time
for something new.
Yeah.
butHow do you knowime
that you're exactly
where you're supposed to be?
Well, in my experience,
you can never go
wrong following your happiness.
I'm trying very hard not
to influence your decision.
Thanks, Mom.
I appreciate it.
[laughing]
You know, I think
I've got everything
we need for sugar cookies.
What about
the gingerbread cookies?
Oh.
You can never have
too many cookies.
Did I hear
somebody say cookies?
[playful music]
We'll make a double batch.
RON: I can't eat them,
but I can make them.
["winter wonderland" playing]
Sleigh bells ring
Are you listening?
In the lane
Snow is glistening
A beautiful sight
We're happy tonight
Walking in a winter wonderland
Gone away is the bluebird
Here to stay is a new bird
To sing a love song
We stroll along
Walking in a winter wonderland
Later on, we'll conspire
As we dream by the fire
LaOh, A face unafraidire
I can't tell you how
excited your mother
has been that you were gonna
come here for the holidays.
She's talked of nothing
else at book club.r
It's true.
It's the best Christmas present
I could ask for, even if it's
only for a little while.
It'Well, I got to go warmresent
Iup my arm, my pitching arm.s
Oh, yes, you do.
Good luck.
It's in the finesse.
You got to finesse those things.
IGood luck to you.e.
See you later.
IGood luBye.o you.e.
Hi.
See anything you like?
Grandma, half dozen.
JODY: Oh.
Half dozen gingerbread
coming right up.
They seem so close.
Oh, they are thick as thieves.
Grandma moved in next
to Darlene about two years ago.
My grandpa died a few
years before that.
And I think she needed a friend.
Maybe they both did,
especially with grandma
going through treatment.
Maybe they both did,
espeMerry Christmas.dma
Merry Christmas.
How much do I owe you?
It's on the house.
Thank you.
See you later.
Bye.
Hey.
AVERY: Hey.
You want to explore
the market?
AVEYeah.ey.
I got this.
Go have fun.
[jazzy music]
Best dip-- mustard
or cheese sauce?
Cheese sauce?
No.
Mustard, for sure.
I was worried you were
gonna say cheese sauce.
Hey, where'd you
get those pretzels?
I was worried you were
gonna say Oh.ese sauce.
You see over there
by that woman?
- You talking about Darlene?
- Yeah.
You see over there
You know her??
Of course.
She volunteers every year
at the Bears Family Fest.
Yeah, she's my grandma.
What?
COLSTON LOVELAND:
YeaWell, we're gonnama.
stick around for the cornhole
tourney, so we'll go say hey.
OK, great.
DAN HAMPTON: See you then.
Did your voice
just drop an octave?
Did it?
I think I just blacked out.
That was Colston Loveland
and Dan "Danimal" Hampton.
And they know your grandma.
[gasps]
SHAUN: Avery.
Hi.
What are you doing here?
I'm here with
my sister and niece.
Oh, how old is Kara now?
Nine.
Oh, I see you won her a prize.
She won it for me.
This is Shaun.
We went to journalism
school together.
This is Matt.
This is Darlene's grandson.
I've heard a lot
about your grandmother.
Keeping Aves on her toes.
Yeah, Avery can handle it.
No doubt.
Hey, nice meeting you.
Likewise.
SHAUN: See you later.
Nice guy.
Baby, it's OK.
We'll figure something out.
What am I gonna do?
What am I gonna do--
AVERY: Hey.
Everything OK?
It's great.
It's just that the cornhole
tournament is about to start,
and John got called
into the station.
So the timing's not great.
The timing's not great.
I'll do it.
Really?
Yeah, as long as you
don't mind a newbie.
Are you kidding?
It would be my honor.
Does she know how to play?
She's a cornhole savant.
What?
Once more, dear Bears.
Unto the boards once more.
Once[cheery music]ars.
That's my daughter
right there.
And that's my husband.
Oh.
Now we know who to root for.
Let's go, Midway Monsters.
[cheering]
[cheery music]
[cheering]
OK, Muscles.
[whoosh]
That's it, Ron!
[cheery music playing]
Time.
Time.
It's like Papa Bear Halas
said, nobody who ever
gave their best regretted it.
Deep breaths.
gave theStay centered.ted it.
DeAll right?.
gave I think I got this.d it.
Girl, I'm talking to myself.
You got this.
Three more points,
and it's ours, OK?
- OK.
- All right.
Hey, hey, hey.
You know, I'm shocked
that we got this far.
So everything is gravy to me.
All that matters is
we did it together.
Thank you, Ron.
I believe in you.
[cheering]
Now show 'em what you got.
[suspenseful music]
[cheering]
That's my stepdaughter.
[laughs]
It's all in the spin.
Yes!
[cheering]
[calm music]
Excuse me.
Are you cornhole
champion Avery Clark?
Please, no autograph.
Are you cornhole
champOh, my gosh.ark?
Even for your biggest fan?
It's gone to my head.
They look so happy, don't they?
Yeah.
They do.
[calm music]
RON: Well, is the mantle
the right place for the trophy?
It needs more light.
You know what?
There's a better
window in the study.
I'm going to take care of it.
[laughs]
I think you made
his whole Christmas.
Oh, no.]
It was fun.
He was so nervous.
But no, he's a pro.
No, about your visit.
Oh.
Mm-hmm.
He really wants you to like him.
I do like him.
And I like him for you.
I dReally?him.
Yes.
Mom, you're so happy with him.
I will be honest.
I didn't really
know what to expect.
But I think it's wonderful.
This is the best Christmas
gift I could ask for.
RON: Nope.
This is the best Christmas
gift I cNope.ask for.
Absolutely not.
Absolutely not.
Stashed away in the study?
Come on.
People need to see this.
Oh, it's perfect.
Oh.
The mantel it is.
People will know.
[laughs]
Donnelly, aren't you off?
Yeah, but it's Garrett's
night to make dinner.
Oh, bless you.
Well, since you're here,s
come draw for secret Santa.
Let's go.
Well, since you're here,s
come drawOK, guys.et Santa.
Shake it up.
Well, since you're here,s
come draStart it up. Santa.
Nice.
Martinez?
Let me pull again.
No do-overs.
Why not?
- It's against the rules.
- Come on.
You know Martinez is
impossible to shop for.
Please.
CARLA: No.
GARRETT: Please.
CARLA: No.
Donnelly, let's switch.
CASorry.o.
Cap, can I get
a mulligan on secret Santa?
It's against rules.
Rules are rules.
Ha-ha.
Garrett, give me--
[grunts]
GARRETT: Help!
You love it here.
It's written all over your face.
I know you said you wanted
to pave your own way,
but are you sure this isn't it?
Hey, what do you
think about balloons?
Like, in general or--
I was just thinking about
having some sent to Gran's house
or maybe, like, a cake.
I just want this game to be one
she'll never forget, you know?se
Not another ticket in the album.
I think I have something
better than balloons.
NICOLE: Avery filled me
in on your grandmother's story.
That kind of loyalty
is inspiring.
We'd like to be a part
of her special day.
We were hoping to put
together a video for halftime
to let the whole stadium
in on the celebration.
Could you get us
some photographs?
Absolutely.
Yes.
Great.
[bright music]
This field house is amazing.
Agreed.
We named it after
Walter Payton, and
we're very proud of it,
which reminds me,
the Bears would like
to have your family
as our guests for the game.
We'll provide a suite and
everything that goes with it.
That-- that's incredibly kind.
My grandma's gonna love it.
[phone vibrating]
- Ooh.
Give me one minute.
And then we'll talk menu.
- Great.
- OK.
Menu--
AVERY: Thanks.
That's pretty cool, huh?
Oh, my--
[laughter]
Avery, thank you
so much for everything
you're doing for Gram.
This is really important
to you, isn't it?
Yes.
She's always doing
things for others.
And I just-- I just want
her to know how proud
we all are of her.
Yeah.
She's the strongest
person I know.
"One day at a time" is
embossed on her ticket album.
What does that mean?
That's her story to tell.
[sentimental music]
There you go.
Oh, thank you.
So I have pretty much everything
I need for the article.
Great.
There is one thing
that I wanted to ask you.
Ah.
The album cover.
Oh, don't be surprised.
You're a very good
reporter, Avery.
I expected it was coming.
It's OK if it's too personal.
We used to keep our ticket
stubs in a shoe box.
It was tucked up in the bedroom
closet for years.
So what changed?
I found out I was sick.
Breast cancer.
The doctor said we caught it
early, but it would be a fight.
[solemn music]
I thought it was
about time we took
them out of that old shoe box.
[solemn music]
There's room for 500.
We're more than halfway there.
Bernie, I'm scared.
One day at a time.
OK.
And then we celebrate.
OK.
You'll do this, sweetheart.
Yeah.
OK.
I know you're gonna
beat this thing.
I know you will.
I love you.
I I love you.ll.
So that's what we did.
We took it one day at a time.
Every ticket stub that we
added, it felt like a milestone.
Oh, Bernie, he gave me
Wa beautiful gift that day--.
hope.
Oh, Life rarely goesme
Wa beauthe way we plan.day--.
But it can't stop
you from living.
All the impossible can
seem within reach when
we have someone in our corner.
Bernie was always in mine.
Thank you for sharing
that with me.
DARLENE: You're welcome.
[solemn music]
JODY: Here you go.
Honey, is everything OK?
Baby.
[sniffles]
[calm music]
It's September 19, 1985
and the Bears are trailing
the Vikings 17-9 Jim McMahon has
been sidelined with an injury.
A loss seems all but certain.
But like Christmas, football
has it's share of miracles.
McMahon comes off the bench
and leads the team to victory.
I got the papes.
McMahon comes off the bench
and leads tPage 3. to victory.
My stepdaughter wrote it.
Page 3.
How you doing?
Page 3.
Ladies, page 3.
Page 3.
Belief is a powerful thing.
It can unite a city.
It can give us
the strength to keep going,
even when things seem dark.
You're never truely
out when you've
got people cheering you on.
As long as there's time on the
clock, anything is possible.
Tomorrow, Darlene Donnelly will
attend her five hundreth game.
AsShe'll cheer on her Bears,he
cthrough the good times and.
the bad, like she's
done for years.
AsBecause that's what you dohe
ctwhen you love something.d.
Darlene's story begins
on a chilly December morning
at Soldier Field
and a first date.
DARLENE: I found a spot
for it right by da coach.
I'm honored.
I just want to thank
you so much, Avery.
This is a wonderful gift.
Aww.
This last week with you
has been so special.
Honestly, I've been
feeling a little lost.
And this time with you has
given me a lot of perspective.
Thank you.
I'm so glad.
And I want you to know that
you have a friend for life.
[bright music]
Are you excited for tomorrow?
I am.
The big game.
Yes.
I just have a really
good feeling about it.
Go, Bears.
Go, Bears.
Go, Bears.
[chatter]
What's up, Ron?
Matty.
Is Avery around?
Oh, no.
She got out of here
early this morning.
Oh, which reminds me, page 3.
Sloane, did you see page 3?
Yes.
You made me read it
twice, proud stepdad.
Avery's pretty amazing.
She's the best.
It's gonna be tough
saying goodbye.
This trip just flew by.
Yeah.
Has she talked about coming
to visit you guys more often?
RON: Her job takes her all over.
It's gonna be hard to wrangle
her for more than a weekend
here and there.
Hm.
You-- you want me
to tell her you came by?
You know what?
I will-- I'll catch her
at the game tomorrow.
See ya.
See ya.
[bright music]
Here's your card, Miguel.
And Merry Christmas.
[sighs] Do you want
to tell me what's wrong?
Nothing's wrong.
Well, you've been
staring at that regulator
hose for 10 minutes.
Avery's leaving.
Oh.
I see.
Yeah.
And I knew that.
And yet, I still--
Did you talk to her?
MATT: Wouldn't change anything.
This was always
Dtemporary for her.?
DARLENE: Well, if she
means something
to you, if she's made
her way into your heart,
you have to tell her.
You make it sound so simple.
Well, that part is.
Then you have to fight for it.
[heroic music]
[cheering]
[crowd chatter]
[heroic music]
[thud]
Come on Ron.
You got this!
Yes.
Come on!
[shouting]
AVERY: You got this.
JODY: Come on.
Come on.
[cheering]
Next year's tournament,
you two are mine.
Bring it.
Next year's tournament,
you [laughter]ne.
Hey.
Everything OK?
Avery.
Hey, you guys, let's pack up.
Oh, we got to clean up.
Game's starting.
Looks like
the weather's gonna hold.
We'll rough them
up either way.
Hey, has anyone
heard from Gran?
BONNIE: She should
be here by now.
The game's about to start.
Maybe we should call her again.
I texted her, but she
hasn't responded.
Maybe she got held
up at the store.
Oh, no, she's off.
Yeah, Ma never
works on game day.
This is so unlike her.
No way she misses the 500th.
I'll try her again.
[phone vibrating]
- Hey.
This is her.
Oh.
Shh.
Hey, Gran.
Everything all right?
You almost here?
Wait.
What?
Now?
Where is she?
[suspenseful music]
The Bears got this
game in the bag.
Tell me about it.
Against the Packers?
Absolutely.
And we have a special
Ateams advantage.rs?
Our punt return is
vastly underrated.
I agree.
[knock at the door]
I Oh.ee.
Oh, what a nice surprise.
What are you doing here?
That's my question.
You're supposed
to be at the game.
Oh, Anna got stuck
at the hospital.
And I wasn't gonna
let Betty watch alone.
Oh, Anna got stuck
Well, come on in.
We've got pretzels.
Pretzels.
JEFF JONIAK (ON TV): --to win
against this Packer defense.
Tanks and goes back
to throw, under pressure.
JEFF JOSpins away from-to win
agaipressure to his right.e.
[cheering]
DARLENE: Oh, hey.
Oh, hi, sweetie.
Sorry I'm late.
I got held up at the hospital.
What's everybody doing here?
For Betty.
Oh.
Thank you for staying with me.
You're a good friend.
Now, go get your 500th.
OK.
Do you think we can make it
before the end of the half?
With game-day traffic?
Actually, I
might have an idea.
[emergency alarm]
Thanks for doing this, buddy.
When you got to get
grandma to the game,
you got to get
grandma to the game.
You ladies doing OK back there?
This is great.
Hey, can we do the horn?
Yeah, we can do the horn.
Hit it, G.
[fire truck horn]
Hang on, ladies.
[bright music]
[laughs]
[cheering]
[whistle blows]
[cheering]
[serious music]
[horn blows]
[triumphant music]
Hi, there.
Hi, there.
There we go.
Hi,Yes.re.
Thank you.
Was the horn really necessary?
Yes.
You promised.
Thanks, buddy.
Go get them, Grandma D.
And we're sure
she's still coming?
Oh.
Yeah, yeah, yeah.
OK.
She's there.
She's here.
She's here.
Surprise.
[cheering]
Happy 500th game, Gran.
[chOh.ing]
Oh.
I am so honored, Mr. Singletary.
Thank you for being
the Bears' number 1 fan.
Oh.
Thank you for being
thOh, and Mr. Peanut.an.
Yes, ma'am.
You are the real MVP.
Oh, thank you.
Yes, ma'am.
JOHN: Wow.
I never thought I'd see
the day, Ma at a loss for words.
Thank you, thank
you, thank you.
I love you all, friends,
especially you guys.
[laughter]
Oh, let's go watch
some football.
[cheering]
Let's go, Bears.
[grunting]
[cheering]
[muffled conversations]
[sentimental music]
[thud, grunt]
And everything.
Everything.
Everything come out?
That's good, right?
JARRETT PAYTON:
Ladies and gentlemen,
will you please join
us in celebrating
one of our Bears
family's biggest fans?
will Excuse me. join
us in Gran.rating
Gran.
Look at the jumbo there.
What?
JARRETT PAYTON: Attending her
500th game, Darlene Donnelly,
please turn your attention to
the video program for a special
JARRETT PAYTON: Attending her
500message from number 18.ly,
Darlene, your love for the
Bears never goes unnoticed.
Thank you for always
being in our corner.
[cheering]
JARRETT PAYTON: Let's take
a look back at how she got here.
[emotional music]
Merry Christmas,
and go, Bears.
[cheering]
ALL: Go bears!
[bright music]
You're all invited back
to the bar for dinner.
Where's Matt?
Oh, he just left.
He asked me to give this to you.
Oh, hThanks.left.
Hey.
You coming, Ma?
Oh, you go on ahead.
I'll catch up.
[sentimental music]
You were right, sweetheart.
We did it.
Merry Christmas.
Aves.
Hey.
AHey.
What a game, huh?
I'm glad I ran into you.
I get to deliver some
good news in person.
Miles wants you
I'mto join the staff.ou.
I think you should consider it.
[bright music]
I tThat's a lot of candles. it.
Oh, it's OK.
I'm a professional.
[laughs]
What is all of this for?
You.
The article was
really beautiful.
Is this a thank you?
MATT: No.
It's a question.
What are you doing
New Year's Eve?
Are you asking me out?
Yeah.
Avery, I really like you.
And I don't want
whatever this is to end.
I know that we live
in different cities,
but there's texting,
email, FaceTime.
I know that we live
I will come visit you.
I know it'll be hard,
but I don't care.
I am willing to do
whatever it takes for you.
Well, I just got offered
a job at the Herald.
Are you going to accept it?
I already said yes.
I-- I start in the new year.
[happy music]
Seriously, how long
did this take you?
How long would impress you?
Are you trying to impress me?
Oh, yeah.
[happy music]
OK, what's next?
Oh.
This one's for you, honey.
And this one is from Matt.
Hmm.
[happy music]
Aww.
He remembered.
OK, this is from me.
I hope you like it.
Yeah.
Here we go.
Oh, come on.
No.
You did not.
Oh, they're beautiful.
We could use them
in the January tourney.
What do you say, partner?
I'm in.
[laughter]
RON: Come here.
I'm in.
I'm in.
RON: [laughing]
[happy music]
Hey, Santa.
Merry Christmas.
Oh, Merry Christmas.
Oh.
And if I don't see you
again, before you go,
have a safe trip home.
It turns out this is home.
Ho, ho, ho.
It Sweet home Chicago.ome.
Ho-ho-ho-ho-ho.
[cheery music]
Could you use some help?
Yes.
Thank you.
How are you?
Good.
How are you?
Merry Christmas.
Merry Christmas.
Merry Christmas.
Hi.
DARLENE: I'm so--
- Hey.
Hey.
Thanks for having us.
This could be the start
of a new tradition.
(SINGING) So baby, come home
DARLENE: Let's eat,
everybody Merry Christmas.
(SINGING) So baby,
please come home
Can't spend the holidays alone
Come home
[bright music]
[audio logo]
[audio logo]
[cheery music]
MAN (ON RADIO): And will receive
Yes.
Popcorn.
[cheery music]
[crowd chatter]
Get your popcorn here.
[cheery music]
Darlene?
Bernie?
Hi.
[laughter]
Have you been waiting long?
No.
No, no, no.
I just arrived.
[laughs]
Um, this is for you.
Oh.
I was gonna bring
flowers, but--
Oh, no, no, no, no.
This is-- this is
lovely, honestly.
And it doesn't need water.
Thank you.
- Well, should we--
- Are you--
- Sorry.
T- Sorry..
- Well, should we--
What were you gonna say?
Um, it's-- it's
almost kickoff,
so should we find our seats?
[laughs]
[cheery music]
BERNIE: Here we go.
I got tickets right here.
[cheery music]
I got ti[cheering]t here.
[cheery music]
[cheering]
[cheery music]
Well, I think we had them.
We had them up until the fourth.
And that fumble should
never have been blown dead.
I mean-- [sighs] What?
Nothing.
I'm glad you had a nice time.
You did, right?
It's-- it's so different
being there, you know?
Like, in the crowd, it's--
it's electric.
My grandfather would
Ltake me to see the Bears-
at Wrigley every Christmas.
Some of my best memories
are from those games.
Do you have a favorite?
Game?
Mm-hmm.
The next one with you.
[DONNY HATHAWAY, "THIS
CHRISTMAS"]
Hang all the mistletoe
I'm gonna get to know you better
HangThis Christmasetoe
The fireside is blazing bright
We're caroling through the night
And this Christmas
Will be a very special
Christmas for me
AMerry Christmasas
[bell ringing]
AVERY: Thank you so much.
Oh, thank you.
AVERY: Welcome.
Home for the holidays?
Oh, no, just visiting.
Merry Christmas.
Merry Christmas.
OK, here you go.
Anybody else need anything here?
I'll take a hot
toddy or a hug.
[screaming]
[laughs] I was supposed
to pick you up at the airport.
AVERY: I know.
I caught an earlier flight
to so I could surprise you.rt.
Oh, well, that's
my kind of surprise.
I caught an earlier flight
to so I coCome here.se you.rt.
Oh, I miss you so much.
Hi, mom.
Merry Christmas.
Merry Christmas, sweetie.
Wow.
MeDon't you look sporty?.
Oh, yeah.
It's-- it's game day.
- Oh.
- Oh.
And the Bears are
It'on a hot streakay.
since I started wearing these.
I didn't realize you
were so into football.
Oh, yeah.
RON: She's giving me
a run for my money.
Oh, honey, look who's here.
Hey, Avery.
How you doing?
Hey, Ron.
Hello.
Hey, Avery.
RON: [laughs]?
Hi.
Yeah.
- Thank you for having me.
- Well, of course.
It wouldn't be Christmas
without you, kiddo.
- Oh.
- You find the place OK?
Yeah, yeah.
Perfect.
JODY: Oh, shoot.
Here comes the rush.
I'm so sorry, honey, but my
bartender called in sick, so--
I'm--
- Yeah, take your time.
- OK.
- Yeah.
I'm--
- Yeah, taOK.your time.
I brought a book.
So excited.
Hey.
Best seat in the house--
- OK.
- --right next to the coach.
- OK.
COMMENTATOR (ON TV): Third
in the league right now.
This Bears team
has been explosive.
COMMENTATOR (ON TV): Third
Forget about efficiency.
This head coach won
explosive again, churning
out big chunks of play.
- Hey, can I get two more, Jody?
- Oh, yeah.
You bet.
MATT: Thank you.
COMMENTATOR (ON TV):
--to the left boundary.
Caleb Williams inserts--
MATT: Think they'll
go for it on fourth?
Caleb WillHmm? inserts--
I mean, it's
still early, but we
got to come away from this
drive with points, right?
Oh, I don't--
I don't know.
I don't really watch football.
[crowd groans]
I come here
for the peace and quiet.
So I won't be impressing
you with my in-game analysis?
Are you trying to impress me?
Well, I'm
at a disadvantage now that I
know you dislike football.
I don't dislike football.
I'm an impartial observer.
Completely neutral?
Switzerland.
CIt's like eggnog.?
I understand why
it's some people's
favorite at Christmas time.
But personally, I prefer cocoa.
favorite at Hmm.stmas time.
But persI like eggnog.er cocoa.
Is that strike 2?
Well, now you're
just mixing metaphors.
You should give it a shot.
No, it's too sweet.
It's like drinking dessert.
I meant football.
Oh.
Sadly, my forty's too slow.
Nothing like being at a Bears
game surrounded by thousands
of people, so cold, you can
barely feel your fingers,
watching athletes
at their absolute
best duke it out
for a chance to steal victory
from the jaws of defeat and--
I've lost you.
No.
I appreciate the passion, even
when it involves face paint.
Mm-hmm.
[laughs] Whatchu you reading?
I figured I'd read
something distinctly Chicago
while I'm in town.
Hmm.
Sinclair's The Jungle
not festive enough?
Hmm?
So you're not
from Chicago then?
New York.
I'm here visiting my mom.
I'm just here through New Years.
Hmm.
You got two weeks to see
what you're missing.
MAN: Yo D, we're up.
You MATT: All right. see
what yo- Hey.issing.
MAN: YoEnjoy.'re up.
Thank you, Jody.
Hey, are you really opting
for a book over the game
because you're not
interested in football,
or are you secretly a Jets fan?
Switzerland, baby.
[playful music]
RON: Hope you're ready
for a genuine Chicago Christmas,
the Christkindlmarket,
ice skating at the Ribbon,
zoo lights at Lincoln Park.
Babe.
He's been making a list.
And checking it twice.
Now, if anything strikes your
fancy, you just let me know,
and we will take you there.
Oh.
It's an actual list.
JODY: Maybe you packrats
could bond by emptying
your boxes in storage together.
Sounds like a great
stepfather-daughter activity.
your boxes You too.ge together.
In my defense, it's
20-odd years of life
crammed into a spare room.
Oh, come on.
RON: But I did promise
your mom that we would
turn it into a crafting area.
No, just eat the fries, honey.
It's OK.
turn it intNo, no.fting area.
I can't afford the extra
calories while I'm in training.
Are you training
for a marathon?
Christmas Market
Cornhole Tourney.
He's been on a strict
regimen for weeks now.
RON: Excellence requires
training and dedication,
hitting my daily
macros, also resistance
bands for your core and gluteus,
and a morning sudoku.
Do not underestimate
mthe mental component.e
He's so cute.
So did you go to Boston
and eat clam chowder?
I did.
So did you go to Boston
and eThe little--der?
The little oyster
crackers on top.
I love that.
AVERY: So good.
I thought you said
she was in Delaware.
I lovOh.hat.
Last month, right?
Yeah.
Life as a freelance
reporter, I never sit still.
I'll be in Spokane
after the new year.
Hmm.
I couldn't do it.
I'm a man of routine.
Got to wake up in my own bed,
have a strong cup of coffee,
and kiss my wife good morning.
I usually insist
on the kiss before the coffee.
[chuckles]
[phone vibrating]
It's Shaun.
He and Avery dated
a few years ago.
Oh.
Do we like him?
Mm-mmm-mm.
Yes, we like him.
No.
YeWe're friends..
He's on the Chicago
Herald city desk.
And when he heard I was
in town for Christmas,
he offered to introduce
me to his editor.
- Oh, that's nice.
- You're working?
You just got here.
- No.
- No, it's justce.
to make a connection.
I already did a few pieces
for them in the past.
COMMENTATOR (ON TV):
Here's the handoff.
Kyle Monangai off left guard.
He's in for the touchdown.
[cheering]
RON: They did it again!
[cheering]
[playful music]
[cheery music]
I'm so excited
for you to see it.
It's beautiful, Mom.
I'll take your bags upstairs.
Oh, you don't have to--
OK, thank you.
JODY: Come on in.
Well?
JODY: CWow.on in.
Oh, you haven't started
the family tree yet.
We were waiting for you.
RON: We were waiting
for the branches to fall.
[laughs]
Ron is very particular
about his trees.
We drove up to Palatine
to cut our own.
And we just walked up and down
that Christmas-tree farm
for hours.
But when we saw
this one, we knew
she was coming home with us.
[sentimental music]
Oh.
That was our trip to Maine.
Ron taught me how to fish.
I caught one on my first try.
AVERY: What?
You are full of surprises.
RON: This is for you.
You can open it if you like.
Now?
Oh, well, yeah.
It's from Ron.
RON: I hope it's the right size.
We got tickets to the game
before Christmas.
Now you're gonna fit right in.
AVERY: [inhales] Wow.
Thank you so much.
[laughs]
Should I get the lights
down from the attic?
Oh.
Should I get the lights
Avery's had a long day.
Oh, I'm never too
tired to trim a tree.
I'm assuming there'll
be cocoa involved.
Absolutely.
Bring on the tinsel.
All right.
Here we go.
JUNE: All right.
Bring [laughs]insel.
[serious music]
AVERY: No, I promise
you the best pain au
chocolat you will ever have--
Dallas Fort Worth, Terminal C.
Aves considers herself
an airport connoisseur.
Well, My mom
Dallaswas an Army nurse,nal C.
so I basically spent my entire
life living out of a suitcase.
You know, it's papers
like the Herald
that have always helped
me feel grounded,
connected because no
matter where you are,
you can always find
one on the newsstand.
coWell, I've admired
your work for a while.
you can always find
one oAVERY: Aww.tand.
MILES: I particularly
enjoyed your Everglades
piece for the Herald.
- Thank you.
MILES: Yeah.
So one of our reporters
is out on maternity leave.
And I was wondering
if you might be
interested in writing something
for us while you're here.
A local woman is about
to attend her 500th Bears game.
AVERY: Ah.
And I need
someone to cover it.
I don't really have any
experience covering football.
You won't be doing
color commentary.
It's a human interest.
You're great at that.
MILES: Yeah, feel-good profile
just in time for Christmas.
Her grandson's been
emailing us since October.
Very persistent guy.
I could take a look at it.
MILES: Wonderful.
I'll set you up with
the grandson's contact info.
His name is--
Matt Donnelly, station
the g46, ladder 21-23. info.
You had something
to do with this.
I may have thrown
your name out.
You know, sports is not
exactly in my wheelhouse.
You'll adapt.
You always do.
AVERY: Hmm?
Are those Mama
Jody's sugar cookies?
I wish.
Gingerbread from the bakery
across the street.
I thought you two baked
those every Christmas.
You know, I still dream
about those cookies.
Don't worry.
I'm sure mom will rope me
into frosting duty at some point
while I'm here.
You love frosting.
Hey, be nice, and maybe
I'll save you some.
I'm always nice.
Hey.
We should get coffee while
you're here, catch up.
- Text me.
- Yeah.
[cheery music]
Hey.
Excuse me.
I am looking for--
Switzerland?
[intriguing music]
Hi.
How'd you know I worked here?
I didn't.
Oh, you thought I
was here for you?
No.
No.
But can I help you
with something?
That's very
presumptuous of you.
Safety inspection?
Cat stuck in a tree?
Yeah, I don't
even know your name.
It's Matt.
Matt.
Matt Donnelly?
Yeah.
Your name's Matt Donnelly?
That or I stole his uniform.
Well, I'm here to cover
your grandmother's
story for the Chicago Herald.
Really?
Yeah.
Wow.
I started to lose hope
after my fifth email.
Wait.
I thought you said that
you were from New York?
Freelance reporter.
I go where the story is.
Oh, OK.
FreelanCool.porter.
Well, look, I'm sure that
you are a fantastic reporter.
And I really appreciate you
coming down here, but I'm--
I'm just not so sure that you're
yothe right person for this..
Dad, I'm heading out.
Swing by the store.
Your gran could use a hand
with a window display.
Sure.
And why not?
Well, 500 games is
a huge accomplishment.
And I think it should be
memorialized by someone
Well, 500 games is
who understands that..
Well, I might not
be a big football fan,
but I am a professional.
Mm-hmm.
Look, you can
turn me away, but
there's no guarantee that
they're gonna send someone else.
If you want the story
to be told, you got me.
Let's start over.
I'm Avery Clark, Chicago Herald.
Matt Donnelly.
Eggnog enthusiast.
Well, you can't know that
if we're just now meeting.
Of course.
Well, you can't know that
if we're jYeah.ow meeting.
So when can I meet
the woman of the hour?
Well, you can't know that
I can take you right now..
Oh.
Great.
And so, Avery
Clark, for the record,
you were actually here for me.
Yeah.
Yeah.
[cheery music]
Here we are.
[laughs]
Oh.
One last thing-- she
doesn't know about this.
She hasn't even
agreed to the story?
I thought it'd be
a fun Christmas present.
[cheery music]
Oh.
Hey, Mom.
Hi, sweetie.
Matthew.
Is everyone
behaving themselves?
Just barely.
Is everyone
Avery, this is my mom, Sarah.
Hi.
Nice to meet you.
These two firecrackers
are Bonnie and Sheila,
Gran's best friends and 2/3
of the Gramma Bears.
Gramma Bears.
Go, Bears.
GramBears.rs.
Go, Bears.
Is Gran in?
She's getting more
tinsel from the back.
Oh.
All right.
[cheery store music]
You have any
shopping left to do?
I do need a gift
for my mom's husband.
OK.
What's he like?
- I don't know.
I'm still getting to know him.
He and my mom had sort
of a whirlwind romance.
IDo you have gift cards here?.
That feels
a little impersonal.
It's practical.
That feels
Less likely to be returned.
Yeah, but it's
the thought that counts.
Well, I thought he
might like a gift card.
Did you?
Yeah, I'll keep looking.
Well, hello.
Gran.
I would like to introduce
you to Avery.
I didn't know you
were seeing someone.
Oh, no.
It's not like--
Aren't you pretty.
Oh.
Thank you.
I really love your jacket.
And so polite.
Matt, why haven't
we met her sooner?
How long have you been dating?
BONNIE: Is she
coming to Christmas?
Do you have any food allergies?
I do you have
a sensitivity to tree nuts.
Yeah, Avery is with
the Chicago Herald.
And she's here to write
an article on you.
On me?
MATT: Yeah.
What for?
- You're about to hit 500 games.
- Oh.
Well--
It's a milestone that
not many people reach.
We'd love to share
your story with the readers.
It's a milestone that
I am hardly newsworthy.
What?
Yeah, but we could shine
a light on the community and--
and highlight all those
charities you work so hard for.
You should do it.
Mm-hmm.
Well, what would I need to do?
Well, I just want to observe
your world, you know,
visit meaningful
Well,places to you, maybeo do?
learn some game-day traditions,
just spend time with you.
Well, all right.
Wonderful.
We can start tomorrow
if that works for you.
Oh, I have a Christmas
reading at the Boys
& Girls Club at 1:00.
You and Matt can meet me there.
Me?
Well, this is your idea.
He can show you around.
I'm not as nimble
as I used to be.
Oh.
That's news to me.
DARLENE: Well, I still have
half of a shopping list.
I've got Christmas
market and Bears Care.
Wait.
What's Bears Care?
That's the team's charity.
And Bears Care is hosting
a fundraiser at Halas Hall.
And I'm helping
with the auction.
Well, I--
I can't do a profile
about you without you.
Oh, of course, you'll have me.
But Matt here, he could give you
some context, some background.
Well, you were always
saying that you were going
But to lose those vacationve you
some condays that werekground.
banked by the end of the year.
And so-- right?
Right.
Yeah, I-- I suppose
I can pitch in.
Great.
Yeah, I-- I suppose
ISee you there.
[cheery music]
Matt, post office
doesn't go there.
Why not?
Next to the jolly chocolatier.
Think of the parking nightmare.
Next to th[laughter]ocolatier.
That reporter seemed very nice.
I was wondering
how long it was
gonna take you to bring her up.
Is she seeing anybody?
Well, Gran, I don't
know because we just met,
and I am not looking to get into
another relationship right now.
Well, you can't
stay on the sidelines
forever if you're
not in the parade.
You watch the parade.
Yeah.
YouAnd that's life.e.
You remember you
got me this one?
You were, what, eight?
MATT: Yeah.
Every town needs a fire station,
even the miniature ones.
Have you talked to your dad?
No.
I still don't even know if I'm
gonna request a transfer.
Well, if you're ready
to move on, he'll understand.
Just be honest with him.
Yeah.
Yeah.
I'll talk to him.
Yeah?
After Christmas.
[grunts] OK.
[laughs]
AVERY: Oh.
What about, like, a tea
of the month subscription?
I've never seen Ron drink tea.
OK, well, you got
to give me a lead.
I'm at a total loss.
Honey, this
vacation is about you
two getting to know each other.
Three weeks under the same
roof, you'll know his shoe size.
So you're telling
me he needs shoes?
JODY: Aww.
Look.
JSo cute..
Hey, Mom, just
between you and me,
don't you think all this rah-rah
fan stuff is a little bit much?
Team spirit is like
Christmas lights.
You can never have enough.
That is your entire
holiday philosophy.
If you aren't blinded
by cheer, you aren't trying.
That is your entire
holid[laughter]phy.
So I'm thinking tonight,
me, you, caroling just
like the good old days.
I'm so sorry, honey.
I've got to shift
to cover tonight.
But we're hosting Christmas
karaoke later in the week.
[laughs]
I don't know why
I always assumed
you'd spend retirement
playing pickleball,
not running a sports bar.
At first, I would just
pitch in occasionally.
But then I got
to know the regulars.
And there's this real
sense of community.
AVERY: Hmm.
Just enjoyed
spending my time there.
It's been this crazy,
wonderful surprise.
Aww.
And we play pickleball
on Tuesdays.
Hm.
Hey, Santa.
Hello.
Merry Christmas.
Merry Christmas.
So tell me more
about this story.
I'm doing a profile
on a woman who's about to attend
her 500th Bears game, Darlene--
Donnelly?
You know her?
Yeah, I know her whole family.
They live a few blocks from us.
YeaHer son is Ron's friend.ly.
Oh.
YeaHer soSmall world.riend.ly.
They'll be
at our Christmas party.
You'll meet all of them.
Have you talked to Darlene yet?
A little bit.
She's hard to pin down.
Yeah, she is.
DARLENE: He delivers
She'the final giftsown.
to Logan Square
in Michigan Avenue, waves
goodbye to the lake shore,
and laughs a jolly ho,
ho, ho for everyone to hear.
Heading back home to his cozy
workshop at the North Pole,
Santa hopes each child is extra
good next year because he can't
wait to come back to Chicago.
The end.
[cheering]
Any questions?
Yes?
Does Santa like football?
You didn't hear it from
me, but Santa is a Bears fan.
[cheering]
SANTA: I'm going to have
to expand my nice list.
Ho-ho-ho.
[laughter]
There you are.
Oh, Merry Christmas.
Ho-ho-ho-ho-ho.
Matt.
Avery.
Hi.
What a nice surprise
to see you both here.
Christmas really does
bring people together.
Gran, you invited us.
And you came.
GranWell, so long.us.
Wait.
What?
What about the interview?
Oh, I apologize.
The reading ran
long, and I've got
to get my last-minute
Christmas gifts
before the stores get too busy.
OK.
Well, I can go
shopping with you.
No, I can't have that.
You're on the list.
Really?
We just met.
DARLENE: So?
I like you.
Aww.
I'll probably
have time tomorrow.
In fact, I'll text you.
Does Matt have your number?
Yes.
Wonderful.
What do you think
of scented candles?
Well, I said too much already.
OK.
[laughs] Sorry about that.
I didn't know
she'd be this busy.
Candy cane?
Yes.
CanYeah.ne?
[playful music]
[coughs]
Oh.
What is that?
Malort.
It's a rite of passage
for anyone new to the city.
[groans] Don't put
it on the brochure.
Matty, your dad
ready for Saturday?
[groans] Don't put
You know what Dad says?
When you stay ready--
--you don't have to get ready.
Ron and my dad are partners
for the bags tourney.
Defending champions
of the bags tourney.
Ron and my dad are partners
for theMm-hmm.ourney.
Bags?
Cornhole.
Didn't realize that
was such a popular sport.
Oh, yeah.
Didn't realize that
was suchYou play?r sport.
Never tried.
Oh.
Thank you for the cocoa, Ronald.
And a Merry
Christmas to you all.
That guy's everywhere.
Nice guy.
Comes by every December.
Hm.
This seems like
a summer sport.
This is
a drink-in-hand league.
You got to have at least one
drink in your non-throwing hand.
If a bag stays on the board,
it's worth one point.
You gAny bag that fallst one
drink through the hole,ing hand.
that's gonna be worth three.
Now, set up north by northeast
so that Chicago wind
won't play favorites.
It's all about stance,
swing, follow-through.
You want to aim low
because that bag will slide.
They're gonna tell
you all about things.
They're gonna say that it's
babout your release point,e.
but they would be wrong.
It's all in the spin.
Oh.
Makes sense to me.
OK, repeat it.
I think he explained it
perfectly the first time.
[playful music]
I think he explained it
perfectly [thud]rst time.
Ah.
[laughs]
Hooow?
[thud]
Ha-ha!
Wow.
We need to foster this talent.
I'm getting the training bags.
Yeah.
This is fun.
You seriously never
played this before?
No.
Must be beginner's luck.
[thud]
MATT: What?
[laughter]
She's a prodigy.
[cheery music]
CHIEF: Hey.
Great job out there, guys.
ALL: Thanks, Chief.
I got a date tonight.
- With Bethany?
- Yep.
It's our third.
I'm taking her
skating at the Ribbon.
Hope I'm not on call
when he sprains a wrist.
[phone ringing]
Hey, Gran.
What's up?
Hey.
Are you here to see Gran?
Hi.
I am.
Huh.
That's a funny coincidence.
She just called me about
her garbage disposal
making a weird noise.
And that is not
a coincidence at all.
No, it's not.
And that is not
a coinciRight.at all.
Well, are you two
coming in or not?
If you have plans with
Avery, I can come back later.
No, no, no.
I'm worried about
that exhaust fan.
You mean about that
garbage disposal?
Yes, of course.
That's what I meant.
There's a rattling.
Hi, Darlene!
Oh.
Afternoon, Betty.
Lovely weather we're having.
Are we still
on for cards tonight?
You betcha.
Grandma had me pick up some
pretzels and dip at the store.
Wonderful.
See you then.
I keep all my tickets
in this album.
Oh, 1982, the Bears' first home
game against the Detroit Lions
I keep all my tickets
after the strike.
We won 20 to 17.
Disposal sounds
fine, but I did
change the light over the oven.
Disposal sounds
fOh, thank you.
So helpful.
Handsome and handy,
don't you think?
Standing right here.
Handsome and handy,
Well, why don't you join us?
Oh, come on.
Handsome and handy,
Well, why No, no.ou join us?
There's more room next to Avery.
Is there?
Yeah.
[playful music]
[clears throat]
Why the Bears?
Well, I always enjoyed
watching the games
with my family on television.
But the first game that I
went to at Soldier Field
is when I truly fell in love
with the Bears and the man
that I would marry.
I was introduced
to Bernie through friends.
He was the sweetest
man I had ever met.
May I?
[sentimental music]
DARLENE: After that game, I
just knew that I was gonna spend
the rest of my life with him.
[cheering]
We went to every game-- to
preseason, road games, playoffs.
[cheering]
Those teams were special.
And we felt a part of it.
7, 6, 5, 4, 3, 2, 1.
[cheering, screaming]
[sentimental music]
[cheer[cheering]ming]
Of course, there were years it
wasn't easy to be a Bears fan.
[crowd groaning]
There was a lot of heartbreak.
Bernie never gave
up hope, though.
He always believed
things could get better.
[groaning]
Bernie passed eight
years ago, but
I still wear his favorite
blue scarf to the games.
I'm so sorry.
IWell, it's kind of likee
he's still there with me.
So when did you
realize that you were
about to hit your 500th game?
When I reached the last page.
I could hardly believe it.
Time is moving so quickly.
It kind of gets away from you.
Do you have a favorite game?
Oh.
I don't think I could choose.
No.
Each holds a memory.
There's a lot of life in there.
I'd like to show you something.
[mysterious music]
There is a signed
jersey of the 1985 team.
There's Refrigerator
Perry, Walter Payton.
And there's Mike Singletary.
The only Bears team
to win a Super Bowl.
A season, we are
soon to repeat.
MATT: Mm-hmm.
Now, did you know
that the Bears are one
of the two original NFL teams?
No.
Oh, we've come this
far on grit and hope.
It's got to be
our time again soon.
That is a winning attitude.
Well, that's the spirit
of a Bears fan--
resilience, optimism.
You know, if there's
still time on the clock,
there's always a chance.
Are you getting this?
Oh, yeah.
Spirit of a Bears fan-- time
on the clock, resilience.
OK, then let me tell you
about October 21, 1985.
We are playing the Packers,e
on and we have just--nce.
[sentimental music]
We are playing the Packers,e
on aWait, wait, wait.nce.
Seriously.
Let me get this straight.
You've covered Titans
of industry and
corrupt politicians, and yet
your most challenging subject
has been a sweet grandmother?
She is giving me
a run for my money.
But you know me.
I love a challenge.
No, she's-- she's amazing.
She's spunky and interesting.
I think I might have
a real story here.
You're always
gonna find it, Aves.
There's never any doubt.
How are you enjoying the city?
You know, it's-- it's
actually really growing on me.
Hm.
You know, there might be a staff
position on the city desk
opening up in the new year.
I can let Miles know
you'd be interested.
You mean stay in Chicago?
Every think about staying
in one place for a little while?
Ooh.
I got to get back
to the newsroom.
Think about it.
Yeah.
Yeah?
[serious music]
Hm.
[mellow music]
MATT: Hey.
Hey.
Peppermint mocha
or double chocolate?
Oh, double chocolate.
Where's Darlene?
She's finishing up
inventory at the store.
Said she'd meet us here.
Uh-uh.
I promise, this
Saiis not some thinlyre.
veiled matchmaking attempt, OK?
She really is working.
- OK.
And besides,
the sleigh ride cruise
is one of her favorite
Christmas traditions.
She never misses it.
is oYou get to seerite
the harbor all lit up.
It's really pretty spectacular.
She'll be here.
Hmm.
Maybe I'll call just
to see if she's close.
[intriguing music]
And I think I just
got sent to voicemail.
Well, we better get going.
Boat's about to leave.
You still want to go?
What can I say?
You sold me on it.
Nice.
YouHey, Santa. it.
Oh.
Hot cocoa?
Oh.
Merry Christmas.
Merry Christmas.
Hmm.
Peppermint.
[horn blowing]
MATT: My dad used to always talk
about how he was so proud to put
on the uniform, but I
never really understood
that until I got my turn.
And I-- I like going
to work knowing
that, at any given moment,
I can have a positive impact
on someone's day.
It must be nice
working with family.
on somYeah.s day.
What?
I got the top slot in our
lieutenant promotion exam.
Congratulations.
Thanks, but I am
considering transferring
to a different station.
Why?
Because, for my entire
career, I've worked for my dad.
And sometimes I wonder
if I've really earned it.
Well, did your dad
grade the lieutenant exam?
[peaceful music]
No.
Well, there you go.
[laughs]
OK, best gift you ever got.
- Am I being interviewed?
- Yes.
I take my job very seriously.
Of course.
Matt Donnelly, Darlene's
Igrandson, local firefighter.
Great conversationalist,
devastatingly handsome.
Matt Donnelly, Darlene's
IgPlease don't editorialize..
Fifth grade, I got a red
double-kick skateboard.
You skateboard?
Not even a little.
But for those brief few
hours Christmas morning,
anything was possible
until I sprained my wrist.
Ooh.
Yeah.
My second-favorite gift was
the helmet that came with it.
Well, that makes sense.
Yeah.
How about you?
Eighth grade, a pair
of silver earrings that--
I had been shopping with
my mom months before.
And I saw them on display.
I didn't even tell
her that I liked them.
And they weren't even
Andparticularly fancy.lay.
But I don't know.
There was just
something about them.
I loved them.
And she-- [sighs] she noticed.
It meant a lot that
she had remembered.
Here.
Oh.
Come here.
[romantic music]
Thank you.
[phone vibrating]
Hi, Mom.
Hi.
What's up?
She's where?
ALL: (SINGING) Deck the halls
with boughs of holly
Fa, la, la, la,
la, la, la, la, la
Tis the season to be jolly
Fa, la, la, la,
la, la, la, la, la
Don we now our gay apparel
She stopped by to pick up
the donation box, and she
said the "vibe" wasn't "merry".
(SINGING) Troll
the ancient yuletide carol
Fa, la, la, la, la, la, la
This is them
there third encore.
It's so cute.
Nice, Mom.
Oh, wait.
Everybody, I see some elves
here who want to help us.
JODY: Yes.
Right here.
Right here.
- Mom.
No, no, no.
We're not-- we're not singers.
Matt, don't leave your grandma
hanging at Christmas.
SANTA: That's how you'll
Wwind up on the naughty list..
[laughter]
[cheering]
Hit it, Mojo!
You got it, Darlene.
(SINGING) Deck the halls
with boughs of holly
Fa, la, la, la, la,
la, la, la, la, la
Tis the season to be jolly
Fa, la, la, la, la, la, la, la
Don we now our gay apparel
Fa, la, la, la,
la, la, la, la, la
Troll the ancient yuletide carol
Fa, la, la, la, la, la, la, la
[cheering]
All right, Darlene.
Here you go--
two Chicago fizzes.
Thank you, Mom.
Oh, thank you.
Cheers.
Cheers.
Your singing was lovely.
Thank you, Betsy.
I sang too.
Tough crowd.
Was I really that bad?
The big question
is, did you have fun?
Surprisingly, yes.
Good.
Life is precious.
You got to fill it with
as much joy as you can.
And just how were
you planning on getting
this to the firehouse?
With your help, of course.
Of course.
Great singing, Gran.
DARLENE: Thank you.
I sang too.
DARShe was good.ou.
I was.
You were.
[cheery music]
[laughter]
All right.
This one's ready to go.
Oof.
Ooh, what happened to you?
MATT: He had a date.
I'm not gonna say
OohI told you so, but--ou?
MATTMild sprain.ate.
I'm not gonna say
OohI tolWorth it. but--ou?
Love always is.
Light-up walkie-talkies.
Gee, who's more excited
for these toys, you or the kids?
All these go
to local hospitals?
MATT: Yeah.
We bring them in the truck,
put on a whole show for them.
You want to see inside?
Yeah.
Go on.
I got it.
[mellow music]
All right.
So that's our radio.
That's how we get
all of our calls.
This gives us the map so we
know where we're going.
Santa has nothing on this.
Oh, no.
Makes a heck of a statement.
We really put
on a show for the kids.
We do the lights,
the sirens, all of it.
We really put
Is that how you turn it on?
Yeah.
Not now.
Spoilsport.
I'll make it up to you.
Promise?
[door squeaks]
All packed up.
Time for elf duty.
[playful music]
OK.
RON: I'm headin' to the bar.
OK.
[jingles bells]
[laughs]
RON: But I'll be
back for the party.
And I got those
eggs you asked for.
- Oh, thank you, honey.
back f- Eggs?party.
Are we finally gonna make
your famous sugar cookies?
JODY: Oh, no.
I'm making gingerbread cookies
for the Christmas market.
I'm helping at one
of the booths.
So you and Matt have been
spending a lot of time together.
Yes, he's helping
me with the story.
Hmm.
So is there anyone
back in New York?
You can tell me
things, you know.
I miss talking to you.
I have been on a few first
dates, fewer second dates.
But you know, I--
I think I'm finally
in a place where I'm
ready for something serious.
What about Shaun?
We're better as friends.
Hmm.
How did you know
Ron was the one?
[sentimental music]
How did you know
[giggles] Oh, um.
When I started missing
him when he wasn't there,
I would offer to help at the bar
just to be around him.
WhenSome people justng
him wsneak up on you.ere,
And then one day, you
realize you're better
together than you were alone.
I just want to be with
someone who makes me feel--
[squeals]
Mm-hmm.
Yeah.
He's out there.
Thanks, Mom.
He is.
ThanHi. Mom.
Come on in.
Good to see you.
Merry Christmas.
You look so-- I love your hair.
CHIEF: I've been
sneaking in some practice
behind the station.
And it's just like
last year, split custody.
The trophy spends
two months with me.
And then it's going to be
back to you for two months.
You're gonna love it.
Oh, I love your sweaters.
Sheila can make
you one to match.
Oh, absolutely.
More than happy to.
I would love that.
Oh, you mean now.
Mmm.
I'm so happy you're
writing about our Darlene.
It's time she had
her moment in the sun.
I was afraid to ask.
Yeah?
Who do you root for?
My friends and family.
No, no.
Who's your team?
I don't have one.
We'll make a Bears
fan of you yet.
Perfect timing.
This is our year.
We say that every year.
And we mean it.
When you've got the Iceman on
your team, anything is possible.
Yes.
Go, Bears.
Go, Bears.
Go, Bears.
ALL: Go bears
Who wants Italian beef?
[cheering]
Who wYes, protein.beef?
No bun.
Don't judge me.
SARAH: Dipped or dry?
Oh, she wants
it double dipped.
You'll love it.
Oh, pass it down.
[clamoring]
DARLENE: Oh, my god.
You're going to love it.
JOHN: Here it goes.
[crunch]
That's a bite.
[cheering]
That's a bite.
JODY: So good.
[laughter]
You want some help?
Quick.
Get in here before my mom sees.
Are we washing the dishes
or stealing them?
Well, it's the good silver.
How big are your pockets?
No, seriously, if she saw
us, she'd want to help.
And she deserves
to have a good time.
Oh.
OK.
Yeah.
Thanks.
[laughter, cheering]
So far ahead.
No problem.
No problem.
The mom, the dad,
three kids, and the dog.
And I just go blank.
I mean, I don't remember
any of the words.
Isn't it just, "We wish you a
Merry Christmas" over and over?
I mean, I don't remember
I was five, but yes.
Isn't i[giggles] Afterh you a
Merrthat, my mom insisted over?
I mean, I don't remember
we bring the lyrics book.
Do you guys still go
caroling every year?
No.
Not anymore.
Things are different now.
Say more.
Well, we're in a bit
of a transition.
My mom's remarried.
She's in a new city, a new
house, running a sports bar.
She's fishing?
She's so settled.
And I'm just not totally
sure where I fit into it all.
Have you told
her how you feel?
[cheery background music]
I think it might be silly to
expect things to stay the same.
People change.
Yeah, but just because your
relationship looks different
now doesn't mean it can't be
wonderful in its own new way.
You know, when old
traditions fall away,
now doesn't mean it can't be
it creates space for new ones.
[cheery background music]
[sentimental music]
I liked your piece on the
Everglades Restoration Project.
You read that?
MATT: Yeah.
You're really talented.
Thank you.
It's not just words on a page.
You know how to make the reader
really feel something.
I am really glad that
you're the one who
You know how to make the reader
came by the station that day.
Well, look.
You two are under the mistletoe.
Oh, no, you don't have to--
Well, it is tradition.
[calm music]
OK, you got to cool it
with the matchmaking, Gran.
There is nothing wrong
with a gentle nudge.
You can't keep pushing
Avery and I together
just because you like her.
- I'm not.
I'm doing it
because you like her.
We're only spending time
together because of the article.
Oh, do not lie
to your grandmother.
It's Christmas.
Yes, ma'am.
["o christmas tree" playing]
O, Christmas tree
O, Christmas tree
How lovely are your branches
O, Christmas tree
O, Christmas tree
What a wonderful evening.
Thank you so much.
And Nicole tells me
that you're doing
a piece on Darlene Donnelly.
Yes.
500 games is
a tremendous achievement.
Indeed.
Do the Bears ever do
anything special to recognize
that kind of milestone?
We have
fan-appreciation games and
even an annual Fan of the Year.
I know this is
super last minute,
but I think Darlene would
be a really great contender
for something like that.
I agree.
Let me see what I can do.
Thank you.
Do you mind if I get
a quote for my article?
Of course.
Do you mind if I get
a quote fGreat.article?
Nicole Bower, head of event
planning for the Chicago Bears.
Tell us a little bit
about Bears Care.
The Bears believe in giving
back to the community
that gives us so much.
We work with not-for-profit
partners across Chicagoland
to extend our reach
to children and families
in neighborhoods,
where our resources
can make a significant
positive impact on their lives.
This time of year is
to help spread cheer
to families facing
significant hardship
during this holiday season.
That's perfect.
Thank you so
Mm-hmm.
Enjoy.
ALL: (SINGING) Joyful
all ye nations rise
Join the triumph of the skies
With angelic hosts proclaim
Christ is born in Bethlehem
Hark the Herald angels sing
Glory to the newborn king
[cheering]
[laughter]
She really does just make
friends wherever she goes.
She has that effect on people.
Last-minute
Christmas shopping?
Maybe.
Let's see.
Ooh.
Your colors.
Understated.
I like it.
Hey, have you had
a chance to check out
the Lincoln Park Zoo lights yet?
It's one of my favorite
places in the city,
especially at Christmas.
You never miss
their tree lighting.
Yeah.
You never miss
How did you know that?
Your grandma.
Ugh.
I also know all
of your favorite foods and
your high-school superlatives.
Yeah.
I am sorry about that.
She's definitely--
Persistent?
Romantic.
But you know, still, she
doesn't even know if you're
seeing someone or not.
Well, it's hard
to build things,
you know, when you're never
in one place for too long.
It takes a toll
on relationships.
Is there a reason behind
her matchmaking campaign?
Oh, you know, boy meets
girl, boy loses girl,
boy buries heartache
at work, perceptive
grandmother intervenes.
boy buries heartache
at work,Oh.rceptive
Yeah.
My ex and I were
together for a long time.
And then she got a job
offer in San Diego
that she couldn't pass up.
And I didn't want her to.
It was a great opportunity.
Couldn't survive the distance.
It hurt, but she was right.
You know, it wasn't practical.
I guess, some obstacles
are too big to overcome.
Yo[mellow background music]al.
[background chatter]
Tell you what-- some
of these kids are gonna
put you players out of a job.
Yeah, but I'm good, right?
Right?
[muffled conversation]
[background chatter]
Well, you asked,
why the Bears?
This is it.
Well, I know it,
can seem silly, you
know, from the outside--
the jerseys,
and the tickets,
and the pictures.
But it brings people together.
There's an awful lot
of love in this room.
[sentimental music]
RON: Avery?
Oh, hey.
Come on.
Oh.
Hey, Ron.
What are you doing in here?
RON: Just going through all
this stuff for your mom.
Mm-hmm.
Oh.
You look so proud.
That was the day I
bought the Irish Nobleman.
It's a cornerstone
of the neighborhood.
You know, Coach Ditka
owned it for a while?
It's - Whoa.rstone
of - Yeah, yeah.ood.
YoAnd when they werea
owselling it again,e?
I just couldn't stand the idea
of it closing for good, so I
scraped up every penny I
had, borrowed a few more,
and the rest is history.
And you were in sales
before that, right?
Yeah.
Yeah.
Thought I always would be.
That seems like
something you'd be good at.
I was, but sometimes, you
just don't know what you're
missing until it shows up.
This is the best thing
that ever happened to me.
It gives me a sense of
fulfillment, gave me your mom.
Well, I thought you
guys met at a Bears game.
Oh, we did, technically,
fulin the concession line.mom.
Well, I thought you
guys met aYeah?ears game.
I got so flustered.
Well, I thought you
gThose hazel eyes, right?
I spilled my drink all over her.
Well, I thought you
gThose hazYikes.s, right?
Yikes, indeed.
I was so embarrassed,
I didn't ask
for her phone number, regretted
it the entire ride home.
And the next day, she
comes walking into my bar.
[intriguing music]
Of all the gin joints.
Christmas miracle.
[laughs] What you got here?
Homework from Darlene.
Oh.
How's the article coming?
Pretty good, actually.
I got a whole 30
uninterrupted minutes with her
before she had to run
to her pottery class.
She is a spark plug.
before she had to run
to hThat is true.ass.
RON: [laughs] Hey, Avery?
Yeah?
I'm really glad
you're here with us.
Me too.
[sentimental music]
[cheery music]
JODY: Hey.
AVERY: Hey, Mom.
Need any help?
AVYeah, sure.om.
[sniffs]
Oh.
I remember this Christmas.
We were in Grafenwoehr.
AVERY: Oh.
You knit that sweater for dad,
the snowflake sweater.
AVEOh. Oh.
I had just learned.
AVLook.Oh.
The sleeves are
different lengths,
but he insisted
on wearing it all day.
Oh.
Gosh, I miss him so much.
Yeah, I know, honey.
So do I. Oh.
Look at you
in your little apron.
How come you haven't
asked me to make frosting?
We used to make sugar
cookies every Christmas,
and you haven't
even mentioned them.
We uWell, I didn'tgar
cothink you wanted to.s,
You've been so busy.
We uWell, I didn'tgar
I would have made time.,
[sentimental music]
Everything is so different now.
It's-- [sniffs] it's like a
whole other life in these boxes,
you know?
I just don't really know
what that means for us.
How long have
you felt like this?
[sentimental music]
Since Ron?
Yeah.
I mean, it's not
Ron's fault, you know?
It's no one's fault, really.
I think being here,
I realized that we're
not as close as we used to be.
Oh, no.
Avery, I love you so much.
There is no one more
important to me than you.
Mm.
I've really loved being here.
Well, this is your home
too, even when you're off
jetsetting across the country.
[sniffs]
OK?
OK.
Shaun said that there might be a
full-time position at the Herald
for me if I want it.
Do you?
I love the freedom
of freelance reporting,
but I think it's time
for something new.
Yeah.
butHow do you knowime
that you're exactly
where you're supposed to be?
Well, in my experience,
you can never go
wrong following your happiness.
I'm trying very hard not
to influence your decision.
Thanks, Mom.
I appreciate it.
[laughing]
You know, I think
I've got everything
we need for sugar cookies.
What about
the gingerbread cookies?
Oh.
You can never have
too many cookies.
Did I hear
somebody say cookies?
[playful music]
We'll make a double batch.
RON: I can't eat them,
but I can make them.
["winter wonderland" playing]
Sleigh bells ring
Are you listening?
In the lane
Snow is glistening
A beautiful sight
We're happy tonight
Walking in a winter wonderland
Gone away is the bluebird
Here to stay is a new bird
To sing a love song
We stroll along
Walking in a winter wonderland
Later on, we'll conspire
As we dream by the fire
LaOh, A face unafraidire
I can't tell you how
excited your mother
has been that you were gonna
come here for the holidays.
She's talked of nothing
else at book club.r
It's true.
It's the best Christmas present
I could ask for, even if it's
only for a little while.
It'Well, I got to go warmresent
Iup my arm, my pitching arm.s
Oh, yes, you do.
Good luck.
It's in the finesse.
You got to finesse those things.
IGood luck to you.e.
See you later.
IGood luBye.o you.e.
Hi.
See anything you like?
Grandma, half dozen.
JODY: Oh.
Half dozen gingerbread
coming right up.
They seem so close.
Oh, they are thick as thieves.
Grandma moved in next
to Darlene about two years ago.
My grandpa died a few
years before that.
And I think she needed a friend.
Maybe they both did,
especially with grandma
going through treatment.
Maybe they both did,
espeMerry Christmas.dma
Merry Christmas.
How much do I owe you?
It's on the house.
Thank you.
See you later.
Bye.
Hey.
AVERY: Hey.
You want to explore
the market?
AVEYeah.ey.
I got this.
Go have fun.
[jazzy music]
Best dip-- mustard
or cheese sauce?
Cheese sauce?
No.
Mustard, for sure.
I was worried you were
gonna say cheese sauce.
Hey, where'd you
get those pretzels?
I was worried you were
gonna say Oh.ese sauce.
You see over there
by that woman?
- You talking about Darlene?
- Yeah.
You see over there
You know her??
Of course.
She volunteers every year
at the Bears Family Fest.
Yeah, she's my grandma.
What?
COLSTON LOVELAND:
YeaWell, we're gonnama.
stick around for the cornhole
tourney, so we'll go say hey.
OK, great.
DAN HAMPTON: See you then.
Did your voice
just drop an octave?
Did it?
I think I just blacked out.
That was Colston Loveland
and Dan "Danimal" Hampton.
And they know your grandma.
[gasps]
SHAUN: Avery.
Hi.
What are you doing here?
I'm here with
my sister and niece.
Oh, how old is Kara now?
Nine.
Oh, I see you won her a prize.
She won it for me.
This is Shaun.
We went to journalism
school together.
This is Matt.
This is Darlene's grandson.
I've heard a lot
about your grandmother.
Keeping Aves on her toes.
Yeah, Avery can handle it.
No doubt.
Hey, nice meeting you.
Likewise.
SHAUN: See you later.
Nice guy.
Baby, it's OK.
We'll figure something out.
What am I gonna do?
What am I gonna do--
AVERY: Hey.
Everything OK?
It's great.
It's just that the cornhole
tournament is about to start,
and John got called
into the station.
So the timing's not great.
The timing's not great.
I'll do it.
Really?
Yeah, as long as you
don't mind a newbie.
Are you kidding?
It would be my honor.
Does she know how to play?
She's a cornhole savant.
What?
Once more, dear Bears.
Unto the boards once more.
Once[cheery music]ars.
That's my daughter
right there.
And that's my husband.
Oh.
Now we know who to root for.
Let's go, Midway Monsters.
[cheering]
[cheery music]
[cheering]
OK, Muscles.
[whoosh]
That's it, Ron!
[cheery music playing]
Time.
Time.
It's like Papa Bear Halas
said, nobody who ever
gave their best regretted it.
Deep breaths.
gave theStay centered.ted it.
DeAll right?.
gave I think I got this.d it.
Girl, I'm talking to myself.
You got this.
Three more points,
and it's ours, OK?
- OK.
- All right.
Hey, hey, hey.
You know, I'm shocked
that we got this far.
So everything is gravy to me.
All that matters is
we did it together.
Thank you, Ron.
I believe in you.
[cheering]
Now show 'em what you got.
[suspenseful music]
[cheering]
That's my stepdaughter.
[laughs]
It's all in the spin.
Yes!
[cheering]
[calm music]
Excuse me.
Are you cornhole
champion Avery Clark?
Please, no autograph.
Are you cornhole
champOh, my gosh.ark?
Even for your biggest fan?
It's gone to my head.
They look so happy, don't they?
Yeah.
They do.
[calm music]
RON: Well, is the mantle
the right place for the trophy?
It needs more light.
You know what?
There's a better
window in the study.
I'm going to take care of it.
[laughs]
I think you made
his whole Christmas.
Oh, no.]
It was fun.
He was so nervous.
But no, he's a pro.
No, about your visit.
Oh.
Mm-hmm.
He really wants you to like him.
I do like him.
And I like him for you.
I dReally?him.
Yes.
Mom, you're so happy with him.
I will be honest.
I didn't really
know what to expect.
But I think it's wonderful.
This is the best Christmas
gift I could ask for.
RON: Nope.
This is the best Christmas
gift I cNope.ask for.
Absolutely not.
Absolutely not.
Stashed away in the study?
Come on.
People need to see this.
Oh, it's perfect.
Oh.
The mantel it is.
People will know.
[laughs]
Donnelly, aren't you off?
Yeah, but it's Garrett's
night to make dinner.
Oh, bless you.
Well, since you're here,s
come draw for secret Santa.
Let's go.
Well, since you're here,s
come drawOK, guys.et Santa.
Shake it up.
Well, since you're here,s
come draStart it up. Santa.
Nice.
Martinez?
Let me pull again.
No do-overs.
Why not?
- It's against the rules.
- Come on.
You know Martinez is
impossible to shop for.
Please.
CARLA: No.
GARRETT: Please.
CARLA: No.
Donnelly, let's switch.
CASorry.o.
Cap, can I get
a mulligan on secret Santa?
It's against rules.
Rules are rules.
Ha-ha.
Garrett, give me--
[grunts]
GARRETT: Help!
You love it here.
It's written all over your face.
I know you said you wanted
to pave your own way,
but are you sure this isn't it?
Hey, what do you
think about balloons?
Like, in general or--
I was just thinking about
having some sent to Gran's house
or maybe, like, a cake.
I just want this game to be one
she'll never forget, you know?se
Not another ticket in the album.
I think I have something
better than balloons.
NICOLE: Avery filled me
in on your grandmother's story.
That kind of loyalty
is inspiring.
We'd like to be a part
of her special day.
We were hoping to put
together a video for halftime
to let the whole stadium
in on the celebration.
Could you get us
some photographs?
Absolutely.
Yes.
Great.
[bright music]
This field house is amazing.
Agreed.
We named it after
Walter Payton, and
we're very proud of it,
which reminds me,
the Bears would like
to have your family
as our guests for the game.
We'll provide a suite and
everything that goes with it.
That-- that's incredibly kind.
My grandma's gonna love it.
[phone vibrating]
- Ooh.
Give me one minute.
And then we'll talk menu.
- Great.
- OK.
Menu--
AVERY: Thanks.
That's pretty cool, huh?
Oh, my--
[laughter]
Avery, thank you
so much for everything
you're doing for Gram.
This is really important
to you, isn't it?
Yes.
She's always doing
things for others.
And I just-- I just want
her to know how proud
we all are of her.
Yeah.
She's the strongest
person I know.
"One day at a time" is
embossed on her ticket album.
What does that mean?
That's her story to tell.
[sentimental music]
There you go.
Oh, thank you.
So I have pretty much everything
I need for the article.
Great.
There is one thing
that I wanted to ask you.
Ah.
The album cover.
Oh, don't be surprised.
You're a very good
reporter, Avery.
I expected it was coming.
It's OK if it's too personal.
We used to keep our ticket
stubs in a shoe box.
It was tucked up in the bedroom
closet for years.
So what changed?
I found out I was sick.
Breast cancer.
The doctor said we caught it
early, but it would be a fight.
[solemn music]
I thought it was
about time we took
them out of that old shoe box.
[solemn music]
There's room for 500.
We're more than halfway there.
Bernie, I'm scared.
One day at a time.
OK.
And then we celebrate.
OK.
You'll do this, sweetheart.
Yeah.
OK.
I know you're gonna
beat this thing.
I know you will.
I love you.
I I love you.ll.
So that's what we did.
We took it one day at a time.
Every ticket stub that we
added, it felt like a milestone.
Oh, Bernie, he gave me
Wa beautiful gift that day--.
hope.
Oh, Life rarely goesme
Wa beauthe way we plan.day--.
But it can't stop
you from living.
All the impossible can
seem within reach when
we have someone in our corner.
Bernie was always in mine.
Thank you for sharing
that with me.
DARLENE: You're welcome.
[solemn music]
JODY: Here you go.
Honey, is everything OK?
Baby.
[sniffles]
[calm music]
It's September 19, 1985
and the Bears are trailing
the Vikings 17-9 Jim McMahon has
been sidelined with an injury.
A loss seems all but certain.
But like Christmas, football
has it's share of miracles.
McMahon comes off the bench
and leads the team to victory.
I got the papes.
McMahon comes off the bench
and leads tPage 3. to victory.
My stepdaughter wrote it.
Page 3.
How you doing?
Page 3.
Ladies, page 3.
Page 3.
Belief is a powerful thing.
It can unite a city.
It can give us
the strength to keep going,
even when things seem dark.
You're never truely
out when you've
got people cheering you on.
As long as there's time on the
clock, anything is possible.
Tomorrow, Darlene Donnelly will
attend her five hundreth game.
AsShe'll cheer on her Bears,he
cthrough the good times and.
the bad, like she's
done for years.
AsBecause that's what you dohe
ctwhen you love something.d.
Darlene's story begins
on a chilly December morning
at Soldier Field
and a first date.
DARLENE: I found a spot
for it right by da coach.
I'm honored.
I just want to thank
you so much, Avery.
This is a wonderful gift.
Aww.
This last week with you
has been so special.
Honestly, I've been
feeling a little lost.
And this time with you has
given me a lot of perspective.
Thank you.
I'm so glad.
And I want you to know that
you have a friend for life.
[bright music]
Are you excited for tomorrow?
I am.
The big game.
Yes.
I just have a really
good feeling about it.
Go, Bears.
Go, Bears.
Go, Bears.
[chatter]
What's up, Ron?
Matty.
Is Avery around?
Oh, no.
She got out of here
early this morning.
Oh, which reminds me, page 3.
Sloane, did you see page 3?
Yes.
You made me read it
twice, proud stepdad.
Avery's pretty amazing.
She's the best.
It's gonna be tough
saying goodbye.
This trip just flew by.
Yeah.
Has she talked about coming
to visit you guys more often?
RON: Her job takes her all over.
It's gonna be hard to wrangle
her for more than a weekend
here and there.
Hm.
You-- you want me
to tell her you came by?
You know what?
I will-- I'll catch her
at the game tomorrow.
See ya.
See ya.
[bright music]
Here's your card, Miguel.
And Merry Christmas.
[sighs] Do you want
to tell me what's wrong?
Nothing's wrong.
Well, you've been
staring at that regulator
hose for 10 minutes.
Avery's leaving.
Oh.
I see.
Yeah.
And I knew that.
And yet, I still--
Did you talk to her?
MATT: Wouldn't change anything.
This was always
Dtemporary for her.?
DARLENE: Well, if she
means something
to you, if she's made
her way into your heart,
you have to tell her.
You make it sound so simple.
Well, that part is.
Then you have to fight for it.
[heroic music]
[cheering]
[crowd chatter]
[heroic music]
[thud]
Come on Ron.
You got this!
Yes.
Come on!
[shouting]
AVERY: You got this.
JODY: Come on.
Come on.
[cheering]
Next year's tournament,
you two are mine.
Bring it.
Next year's tournament,
you [laughter]ne.
Hey.
Everything OK?
Avery.
Hey, you guys, let's pack up.
Oh, we got to clean up.
Game's starting.
Looks like
the weather's gonna hold.
We'll rough them
up either way.
Hey, has anyone
heard from Gran?
BONNIE: She should
be here by now.
The game's about to start.
Maybe we should call her again.
I texted her, but she
hasn't responded.
Maybe she got held
up at the store.
Oh, no, she's off.
Yeah, Ma never
works on game day.
This is so unlike her.
No way she misses the 500th.
I'll try her again.
[phone vibrating]
- Hey.
This is her.
Oh.
Shh.
Hey, Gran.
Everything all right?
You almost here?
Wait.
What?
Now?
Where is she?
[suspenseful music]
The Bears got this
game in the bag.
Tell me about it.
Against the Packers?
Absolutely.
And we have a special
Ateams advantage.rs?
Our punt return is
vastly underrated.
I agree.
[knock at the door]
I Oh.ee.
Oh, what a nice surprise.
What are you doing here?
That's my question.
You're supposed
to be at the game.
Oh, Anna got stuck
at the hospital.
And I wasn't gonna
let Betty watch alone.
Oh, Anna got stuck
Well, come on in.
We've got pretzels.
Pretzels.
JEFF JONIAK (ON TV): --to win
against this Packer defense.
Tanks and goes back
to throw, under pressure.
JEFF JOSpins away from-to win
agaipressure to his right.e.
[cheering]
DARLENE: Oh, hey.
Oh, hi, sweetie.
Sorry I'm late.
I got held up at the hospital.
What's everybody doing here?
For Betty.
Oh.
Thank you for staying with me.
You're a good friend.
Now, go get your 500th.
OK.
Do you think we can make it
before the end of the half?
With game-day traffic?
Actually, I
might have an idea.
[emergency alarm]
Thanks for doing this, buddy.
When you got to get
grandma to the game,
you got to get
grandma to the game.
You ladies doing OK back there?
This is great.
Hey, can we do the horn?
Yeah, we can do the horn.
Hit it, G.
[fire truck horn]
Hang on, ladies.
[bright music]
[laughs]
[cheering]
[whistle blows]
[cheering]
[serious music]
[horn blows]
[triumphant music]
Hi, there.
Hi, there.
There we go.
Hi,Yes.re.
Thank you.
Was the horn really necessary?
Yes.
You promised.
Thanks, buddy.
Go get them, Grandma D.
And we're sure
she's still coming?
Oh.
Yeah, yeah, yeah.
OK.
She's there.
She's here.
She's here.
Surprise.
[cheering]
Happy 500th game, Gran.
[chOh.ing]
Oh.
I am so honored, Mr. Singletary.
Thank you for being
the Bears' number 1 fan.
Oh.
Thank you for being
thOh, and Mr. Peanut.an.
Yes, ma'am.
You are the real MVP.
Oh, thank you.
Yes, ma'am.
JOHN: Wow.
I never thought I'd see
the day, Ma at a loss for words.
Thank you, thank
you, thank you.
I love you all, friends,
especially you guys.
[laughter]
Oh, let's go watch
some football.
[cheering]
Let's go, Bears.
[grunting]
[cheering]
[muffled conversations]
[sentimental music]
[thud, grunt]
And everything.
Everything.
Everything come out?
That's good, right?
JARRETT PAYTON:
Ladies and gentlemen,
will you please join
us in celebrating
one of our Bears
family's biggest fans?
will Excuse me. join
us in Gran.rating
Gran.
Look at the jumbo there.
What?
JARRETT PAYTON: Attending her
500th game, Darlene Donnelly,
please turn your attention to
the video program for a special
JARRETT PAYTON: Attending her
500message from number 18.ly,
Darlene, your love for the
Bears never goes unnoticed.
Thank you for always
being in our corner.
[cheering]
JARRETT PAYTON: Let's take
a look back at how she got here.
[emotional music]
Merry Christmas,
and go, Bears.
[cheering]
ALL: Go bears!
[bright music]
You're all invited back
to the bar for dinner.
Where's Matt?
Oh, he just left.
He asked me to give this to you.
Oh, hThanks.left.
Hey.
You coming, Ma?
Oh, you go on ahead.
I'll catch up.
[sentimental music]
You were right, sweetheart.
We did it.
Merry Christmas.
Aves.
Hey.
AHey.
What a game, huh?
I'm glad I ran into you.
I get to deliver some
good news in person.
Miles wants you
I'mto join the staff.ou.
I think you should consider it.
[bright music]
I tThat's a lot of candles. it.
Oh, it's OK.
I'm a professional.
[laughs]
What is all of this for?
You.
The article was
really beautiful.
Is this a thank you?
MATT: No.
It's a question.
What are you doing
New Year's Eve?
Are you asking me out?
Yeah.
Avery, I really like you.
And I don't want
whatever this is to end.
I know that we live
in different cities,
but there's texting,
email, FaceTime.
I know that we live
I will come visit you.
I know it'll be hard,
but I don't care.
I am willing to do
whatever it takes for you.
Well, I just got offered
a job at the Herald.
Are you going to accept it?
I already said yes.
I-- I start in the new year.
[happy music]
Seriously, how long
did this take you?
How long would impress you?
Are you trying to impress me?
Oh, yeah.
[happy music]
OK, what's next?
Oh.
This one's for you, honey.
And this one is from Matt.
Hmm.
[happy music]
Aww.
He remembered.
OK, this is from me.
I hope you like it.
Yeah.
Here we go.
Oh, come on.
No.
You did not.
Oh, they're beautiful.
We could use them
in the January tourney.
What do you say, partner?
I'm in.
[laughter]
RON: Come here.
I'm in.
I'm in.
RON: [laughing]
[happy music]
Hey, Santa.
Merry Christmas.
Oh, Merry Christmas.
Oh.
And if I don't see you
again, before you go,
have a safe trip home.
It turns out this is home.
Ho, ho, ho.
It Sweet home Chicago.ome.
Ho-ho-ho-ho-ho.
[cheery music]
Could you use some help?
Yes.
Thank you.
How are you?
Good.
How are you?
Merry Christmas.
Merry Christmas.
Merry Christmas.
Hi.
DARLENE: I'm so--
- Hey.
Hey.
Thanks for having us.
This could be the start
of a new tradition.
(SINGING) So baby, come home
DARLENE: Let's eat,
everybody Merry Christmas.
(SINGING) So baby,
please come home
Can't spend the holidays alone
Come home
[bright music]
[audio logo]