(dramatic music) (gentle, whimsical music) Captions were made with the support of NZ On Air. www.able.co.nz Copyright Able 2021 (gentle music continues) - (sighs) (car tooting) - Hey there, Bob. - Hey, morning, Jo. How you doing? Are you OK? I saw a little trip there. - Yeah, the sidewalk just keeps getting worse. - Yeah well, you know that old tree is just gonna keep making things worse and worse. When are you gonna chop it down? - I know, I know. It's on my to-do list. It's just at the bottom of it. - Understood, understood - Hey, you got one of those newspapers for me? - Yep, here you go. Make sure you check out page two. That little sister of yours, she sure can write. - Yeah, well, we know where the talent landed in the Mason family. - I don't know about all that. It's not easy running the cultural event centre of Daisy Hills the way you do. - Well have a nice day. - You make it a great day. - See you tonight. - Take care. (upbeat music) - (sighs) (upbeat music continues) (gentle, twinkling music) (door opens) - Anybody home? - Hey, over here Carol. Guess what? - It came in? - It wasn't easy. I was able to round some up from a wholesaler. - Do you think we need more? - I don't. But go on, take the truck and you can bring it back when we're done. - What did it come out to? - Almost double the last. It's getting harder to find. - I really need it, but double? - Well, they keep raising the prices on us. You know what, just take it for now and we can work it out once you sell your plants. - Are you sure? - Dad and I will figure it out, yeah. - Oh, thank you, Jo. Oh, that means so much. - You know, it's like my mom always said, 'You can always find what you need at the Daisy Hill store.' All right, you got this. Hey, Sof. - Hi, Sofi. - Hi, Carol. - No, I got it. You go ahead. I have it. - OK, thanks. Have a good day. - OK. - Sunglasses, where are they? - Oh, what is that? - What, they published it? - Mm-hmm. 'Nothing monumental can be accomplished alone. 'It's with the full support of the community...' - You know I'd really rather- - '...that the next generation will flourish. 'And with the love of our families, both blood and chosen, that we can truly succeed.' My baby sister, a published author. I am so proud of you. - The valedictorian writes an article every year and it's just the local paper. - Hey, it is a start, Sof. And you are so talented. - Oh, there they are. You know what? By the way, you're my sister. You kind of have to think I'm amazing by law. Oh, Sof, wait. This came for you this morning. - What is that? (gentle music) I... I can explain this. - Doesn't Iowa University have the best writing programme in the country? Looks like I'm not the only one who thinks you're amazing. Well, go on, open it. (gentle music) Though usually a big envelope means... - Oh my God! Jo, I got in! It's just because I... I didn't think I'd get in... because I applied just for fun. - Yeah, that does sound like fun. Does Dad know that you applied? - No, I, uh... I didn't want to upset him. Remember how mad you got when Blake left. - Hey, hey, that... That was completely different. This is Dad, and Blake was not my sister. - You know that probably made him just like a little bit easier to date for you. - OK, I just want what's best for you, but what is it that you want? (contemplative music) - It's nice to know I got into Iowa, but I also heard back from Hopewell University, and I remember you saying how great it was. - I loved it there. - I know. And it's closer. I can stay with you and Dad. And it` it'll be a lot easier for everyone. - OK, well,... just think about it. - Yeah. I gotta go. - Can I look through those? You know, live vicariously through you. - Yeah, just don't let Dad see it. No need to worry him. - OK. Oh, hey and don't forget your party is seven p.m. sharp tonight. OK, make sure you're ready. - She'll be fine. You worry too much. - You are up early. - I had to take care of a few things. - Oh, OK, well, same goes for you, Dad. Do not be late to your daughter's party. And when you're done with that, you wanna come in here and help me for a minute? - I'm almost done. - OK. - Sorry about that, Blake. - Hey, no worries, Mr. Mason. So what were you saying? - Well, we could use a whole new plan to catch up with the times. - I might only have a few days, but would it help if I come out there? - You'd do that for us? - Yeah, of course. You were always there for me as a kid. You're like my second family. - How are your folks, by the way? - They're doing great. I'm definitely jealous of all of the sun they're getting in Florida though. - Yeah, I bet. - So about the store,... How bad is it? - The truth is,... we may need to shut down. - OK, well, let's make sure that doesn't happen then. I'll hop on the next flight out of JFK. - That's wonderful. That's wonderful. And listen, if you get here by tonight come by the store. We're having a little birthday party for Sofi. - OK. I'll see you then. - All right, take care. - Bye. (phone ringing) Blake Harris here. - Mr. Harris, we just got your email and wanted to confirm you made the next round of interviews. - That's great news. Thank you. I'm actually gonna be out of town for the next couple of days though. - Well, we can always do the interview by phone. - Perfect. I'll talk to you then. - Thank you. - Thank you. - Bye - Bye. - Sorry about that. This for Carol? - Yeah. Well, she'll be back in a bit. You know, Henry came looking for you earlier, but you were already gone. What were you doing anyway? - Just a last minute thing for tonight. - OK, I don't know what that means, but it better not involve any extra cheese. You know, I was thinking about cancelling the ribs for the party after your last lab results. - And here I thought that children were supposed to honour and respect their parents. - Just make sure you eat something green at the party. You know, I still can't believe that Sofi is almost finished high school. - I can hardly believe you've already graduated high school. Where does the time go? - Yeah, well, if it was up to me, I'd keep it from going so fast, that's for sure. - What's this? - Don't you mind about that. It's not for you. But these... are. - Lights, electricity, suppliers. - I'm stocking up on a few things that people can't get online. Maybe that'll get people in here. - Yeah, I've been seeing those delivery trucks around town more and more, people clicking instead of coming in here. Should we get a website, Jo? Catch up with the times? There's nothing wrong with change. - Well, maybe. But, Dad, does that mean that you're changing your attitude about those ribs? - I'm serious, Jo. - I know, Dad. Isn't the point of the store to have a place where people can just walk in? If we have a website, why even bother? - We'll figure something out. (door opens) - Hello. - OK, we have a customer. - Customers usually pay. Let me give you a hand there, Carol. - Duke, I wasn't expecting to see you here. What a pleasant surprise. - Well it's nice to see you too, Carol. How's that fertiliser treating you? - Oh, it's a lifesaver. Ever since the distributor discontinued it, you finding it at that wholesaler has really kept me afloat. I can't thank you enough. - Well, we're happy to help. - Oh, I don't know what I would do without this place. - OK, come on, you two. Let's get the rest of this out to Carol's car. - I'm really excited about tonight, by the way. Will Bob be here? - Not if Jo has anything to say about it. - What's a party without ribs? - OK, OK, you guys. I get it. Sheesh. - (Duke laughing) (RAPS) # Now this is a story all about how # Fast food got flipped, turned upside down # I took one huge bite of that foot-long bread # And said, "Yo, skip the grease and Eat Fresh instead!" # (GROOVY HIP-HOP MUSIC) - I'm assuming everyone's ready, so we can go and get to the party on time. - SOFI: Five more minutes. - Hey, Jo, there's something that I've been meaning to talk to you` - Dad, can you go ahead and bring this to the party? Because I have a feeling we're gonna be a bit longer than that. - Sure, I'll take care. I'll make sure everything is under control. Guests will be fed and entertained. - Oh, wait, Dad. - You girls always manage to be late for your own parties. And you know, your mother was late for our wedding. You're becoming more and more like her every day. - You know, Dad, there's some mornings when I'm opening up the store, and I know this sounds crazy, but I feel like she's there with me. - That's not one bit crazy, Jo. She put everything she was into that place. I better get to those ribs before they're all gone. - Hey. - SOFI: Just five more minutes. - You said that five minutes ago. - What were you and Dad talking about? - About me growing up, you growing up, stuff... (gentle music) - OK, which one? What do you think? - I would've liked you to have chosen an hour ago. - Come on, which on? - The one on the right. - OK. - And please hurry. What the? - OK, ready. What do you think? - Would ya look at that? Dad was right ` you look just like Mom. - Do not make me cry tonight. - All right, let's go. Do you think it's gonna rain? - Nah. - Ooh. Oh, no. You said it wouldn't rain. - I know. Hey, hey, hey, hey, hold on. I just, I want you to know... that I'll support you no matter what you choose in life and so will Dad. - Thanks, Jo. (soft music) So, you know I'm officially late because of you, right? - OK, go on. (upbeat music) Have fun. - Thanks, Jo. Hey, Shawn. - Mrs. Hayes, you made it. Thank you for coming. Hey, Dad. Hey, Carol. Hey, Bob. - You're here. Does Sofi like what we've done? - Oh, she loves it. Thank you so much for setting it up. - Oh, it's my pleasure. And don't you look lovely tonight. - You do too. - Well, you do` you do too, Carol. Yes, thank you for helping. It's very... helpful. Listen, Jo, I` - One delicious pulled rib sandwich just for you. - Thank you, Bob. - Thank you. It's nice to get together with the community and see everyone. - I don't remember the last time I went out just to have fun. - Well, as long as the store is around, this town will have a place for things like this. What's up, Dad? - Excuse us for a second. - What's going on? - OK, listen. I didn't know how to bring it up, and I didn't want to upset you. - What is it? - So, a special guest is coming tonight. - A special guest? - SOFI: Blake? Oh` Oh my goodness, Blake! - Hey. - Jo, it's Blake. When did you get here? - Right now. - Come with me. Are you just staying for the party or are you moving back? Please tell me you're moving back. - Nice to see you, Blake. How... unexpected. - Good to see you too, Jo. But first ` I got this for you. Happy birthday, Sof. - Wait. How did you know that I needed a new laptop case? This is exactly what I needed. - Good. - Thank you, Blake. Do you mind if I go show my friends? - Go for it. - OK. - So, you two,... what's happening here? - Wait, does she not know that...? - Know what? - Well, there's, uh... There's a short answer and a long answer. - Your choice. - OK, well, why Blake is in town is the long answer, which I think is best we discuss after you have a beverage. - Which` I can help with that. Let me help with that. - Now why Blake is here tonight is easier. He was such a big part of Sofi's life growing up I thought, since he was already in town, he should be here for it. Trust me that I will fill you in later, OK? You two go on and catch up. Go on. - So... Hello... - Hi. - You know I didn't know I was surprising you, right? - Well, it's not like I'm mad. Why would I be mad? - Why would you be mad? - Well, I can be mad since you said you'd be back, what, like, a decade ago? - Uh, I never said that. You were supposed to come to Brooklyn. - Yeah, like that was ever gonna happen. - It was supposed to happen. - Yeah, and then you just like stroll on in here all like` - This isn't some stroll. - OK, well, it's a strut at the very least. - Maybe it is. - Yeah, you strut in with this, like, ridiculous look. - This is an expensive suit. - With no explanation. - I have an explanation. - Well,... it's long overdue. - I meant for tonight. And maybe NYU actually. - I'm sure you do. - It's not like I practised the strut or anything. You like the suit. You do. It looks nice. - OK. OK. This is insane. Let's just start over, OK? - Yes. - So,... how you been? - Let's see ` I still live in Brooklyn, own my own consulting company and I've been back for five minutes and it feels like I never left. You? - I never left. - It's treating you well. - So, uh... How badly do you want one of Bob's rib sandwiches right now? - Pretty bad. - Right? - Yeah. - Shall we? - Yes, please. - OK. No, no, no, no, that is not true. - It is true. You ran out of that graduation party, and I had to chase you all the way out to that field. - Are you kidding me? I remember chasing you. - No. Not a chance. - Yes. - Hey Blake, I just wanted to thank you again for this. I love it. - Oh, I'm sure it'll come in handy. - So I can't believe that you're here. Can you tell me, like, about living in the city? - Well, I live in Brooklyn, so that's technically not the city, but` - But like Brooklyn's more chic, right? - I suppose so. But I still love these barbecues here and those ribs, but there's a lot of delicious food there too, like Asian fusion barbecue. And there's this great place in Astoria I can recommend. - Can you? - Mm-hmm. - Can you recommend a place in Astoria? - Is it so loud that you can't sleep? - Sometimes. - OK, so, is it` - Sof, that's enough questions for right now. - One more. Is it true that places never close, like stores and stuff? - They do close, but super, super, super late, like 4am sometimes. - That is so cool. - Yeah. - OK, wait. Add me as a friend that way I can just see all your adventures and everything. That one? - That's me. - OK. - Nice. How about you, Jo? You haven't sent me a friend request. - She doesn't do social media. I made her an account and everything and she doesn't even use it. - Don't I know it. - What does that mean? - I sent you a friend request a while ago and you never responded to it, that's all. - Well, I just think friends are people you talk to in real life. - How can you keep up with all your friends then? - I just have events like this. I invite them to come over and we talk. - How do you let them know about the events? - Well, I tell them with words when I see them. - I honestly don't know what year you live in. - Oh, there we go, here. We are friends, thank you. - Friends, nice. See? She's awesome. I can tell she's gonna love living in the city. - Well, we're not sure where she's gonna go just yet. - She's not gonna go to school? - Oh she is, we just don't know where. - She has to go to the city. - Has to? - Well, yeah, I mean, that's where she belongs. - Come on, you've been here what four minutes and you already know where Sofi belongs? - I can tell and you can tell. - Are you telling me what I should think? - No, I'm just trying to explain that` - Oh yes, yes. Please explain to me what I should think. - There are some people that like small towns and some people that need to get out. - Well, let me explain to you. There are some people who think they know best for other people when in fact they don't. - I think I know a little bit about this. - Wow, that is literally what a know-it-all would say. - I don't have to be a know-it-all to know more than you. - You know, I've been meaning to tell you, I often think to myself, 'Gosh, I miss Blake and his ego.' Oh no, wait, I never think that. And while we're on the subject, why are you here? - I don't know. - You don't know? - No. - Listen, Blake, I don't really know what you had in mind coming back here, but seeing as your attitude hasn't changed, I don't know why mine should. You do not- - Jo, help! It's Dad. - Breathe, breathe. - Jo, please hurry. Dad, it's OK. - Dad, hey, hey, what's going on? - It's OK. - Blake, call an ambulance. - Jo, what's happening? Dad? Dad? - It's OK, we're here, we're here. Hey. Hey, it's OK. He's doing better. It's just a scare really. We just need to make sure that he's taking better care of himself from now on. - Is he still awake? - I think so. - I'm gonna go see him. - OK. - You OK? - Yeah. Thanks for, uh, staying with Sofi. - How's he really doing? - Well, he just needs to avoid some stress, stay away from work. Other than that, he should be OK. - Listen, Jo, you're gonna have to change a few things around here. That's the real reason I came. - You know what, Blake? The truth is is that I'm not crazy about you being here. - I didn't mean to` - I appreciate you staying with Sofi, but I think it's time for you to go now. - OK. (sombre music) I'm gonna be taking in the old sites tomorrow if you want to talk or anything. (sombre music continues) - (sighs) - Hey, Dad. - Hey. - Brought you a snack. - Uh... Guess I better get used to this being called a snack from now on, huh? Sofi go to bed? - Yeah. In case you haven't noticed, it's been a long night. I, uh, ran across this downstairs. - It's` It's nothing. It's nothing. Look, Jo, it's just something I was reading about. I know what the store means to you, to me and Sofi, to the whole community. I have to do something to keep it open. It's not the right time to retire. - In a few weeks from now, Dad, when all the bulk of the bills are due, were are you planning on paying them with your savings? - We had, uh, a real scare... today. When I got home, I realised I should help out as much as I can while I still can. - I'm` I'm working on some stuff Dad, OK. I've got the new line and I'm working with the suppliers. The savings are for you, OK? You can't sacrifice that. - That's what family does. They sacrifice when they have to. - That's why Blake is here, isn't it? - I'm sorry I didn't tell you beforehand. I didn't know how to. Look, he saves businesses for a living, Jo. I figured we could use his help. - We don't need him, Dad. We can figure it out on our own. - Jo, when your mom got the smart idea to open up a store, I thought she was nuts. But she wanted to plant roots in the community. She wanted to connect with people, to help them out. I have to try everything to save that store. That's what she would want. And if Blake can help us... - He only thinks about himself, Dad. I mean when was the last time you even saw him? - At your mom's funeral. - What? - I know you think he didn't show up, but he did. I don't know why he didn't talk to you, I'm sure he has his reasons, but he was there. He cared enough to come. He cares about us, Jo. Let him help. (soft, contemplative music) - You were listening? - You can't do this on your own, Jo. - I'm not doing it on my own. Dad` - He won't be able to work for a while. You're gonna need help. I've been thinking, what if I defer going to Hopewell U for a little while? - What about Iowa? - I told you I applied just for fun. - Hey, you don't need to make a decision just yet. - That's what family does. They make sacrifices. (birds chirping) (gentle music) - I thought I'd find you here. I'm sorry about yesterday. I shouldn't have snapped. It was all just too much ` seeing you, Dad's scare, Sofi growing up so fast. - Remember the last time we were here? - It was the morning of graduation. - Yup. - And... I ran away. - Everyone was so busy, and when I turned around, you were just gone. But I knew this is where you'd be. - I was just so worried that it was my last chance to... I don't know. - Duke asked me to come, Jo. - He told me. Why didn't you tell me that you came to my mom's funeral? - I meant to. But when I saw you, you were being so strong for your dad and Sofi. I hadn't talked to you in years. I really didn't think you needed anything else going on. I have to be upfront with you, Jo. I might be leaving in a few days. I'm waiting to hear back on this job, and if I get it, I'm going back to New York. - Sounds nice. - Yeah. Maybe. I don't know. Something's been missing for a while now and... I tried so many things sort it out, but nothing works. I honestly think helping out with this store will be really good for me. - Well, I'm glad to know it'll be good for one of us. - (laughs) OK. - OK, fine. You can help out with the store. But there's gonna be some rules. - Oh, you're in charge. I do what you say and you have the final word. - Oh, well, I'm glad you're aware of the rules. - Now, I know how you feel about change, but... - You're already starting with a but? - You just have to keep an open mind. - OK. - OK. - All right, well, I will see you tomorrow morning at the store. - Good. - I'm, uh, glad you came. It's nice to know that you care. Tomorrow morning, 7am sharp. 7.02 and all bets are off. (soft, stirring music) We are absolutely not doing that. - Jo, we've been back and forth on this for hours. I told you it was gonna be drastic. - Drastic I can handle. You want to restructure the traffic ` fine. You want to change the toner suppliers ` not a problem. But we are not redesigning the structure of the building. - That's not what I said. I said replace the windows, that's all. - The windows are fine the way they are. - Look at these. These things are old. - They are beautiful - But they're old. They're leaking like crazy. You're wasting so much money because it's an outdated building. If you replace them with more modern things` - Cold. - Efficient. - Eyesores. - Look I've already explained this. income's important, but it's fluid. Expenditures are something you can control. - I know. I get it. - Then why are you fighting me on this? - Because some things just can't be changed. - Look, Jo, you're gonna have to try to come out of your comfort zone for this one because it's much better to change something now that you might like then having to change something in the future that you're definitely gonna hate. - Let this one go. - OK, fine. How about we take the candy from the front of the store` - Nope, can't do it. - Oh, come on, why not? You only make money on low cost items if you sell a lot of them. You have to keep them near the register to take advantage of the customer's impulse tendencies. - Trust me, that is not a good idea. And have you listened to yourself? 'Taking advantage of the customers.' - You know that's not what I'm saying. You're not listening. OK. You have 10 different types of pens for sale. - Those are nice pens. - How many have you sold in the last month? - (huffs) - That's what I thought. You know why? There's too many options. - People like options. - No, they don't. They like to buy what's there. And if there's too many options, it's overwhelming. - Whatever book you got that from, that's not how things work in the real world. - You are the most stubborn person` - And it's not like we've never sold any of the pens. I'm stubborn? You're Mr. Know-it-all! Are you kidding me? I'll, uh, just add that to your tab. - Was that Ms. Hayes? - Yup. - She looks good for her age. - She does. She comes in here every day. She opens that door, she grabs her favourite candy and leaves. That is the highlight of her day. And now you want me to have her walk all the way to the other side of the room just so that you can, what was it that you said about it? Oh, so that I can take advantage of the customer's impulse tendencies. - It's possible some of the theories need to be adjusted to this town. - Yes. And we are not some online conglomerate whose bottom line are shareholders. She is our bottom line. And so is Carol, who sometimes has trouble finding her plant feed, or Henry, who uses a special fishing tack that he can only find here. Is it silly to hold some of these things in stock? Of course it is. But who else will take care of this community? Who else will have just what they need? If we take away all that, what will we be left with? - A profit. - (groans) - Look, Jo` Wait, wait, wait. You're not wrong. - Oh, is that how they say someone is right in Brooklyn? - No, because I'm not wrong either. Maybe you could squeak by for the next couple of months by doing what you're doing, but you're gonna have to make a compromise if you want to move past this. - OK, we'll find a compromise. - It physically hurt you to say that, didn't it? - Yeah, a little bit. - Yeah, I can tell. (chuckles) All right, uh... You know what? We'll think better on a full stomach. - I'm in. Oh, coat. - Think fast. - Thank you` Oh. - And you're buying. - Uh, I'll consider it. for the small business owner - like loading up your personal credit card, earn reward points, and be rewarded with a toaster. VOICEOVER: Out with the old and in with Prospa - New Zealand's small business lending specialist. Think of all those... Try today's way to borrow. Apply in 10 minutes, get a fast decision, and funding possible in 24 hours, so you can put your plastic away. Talk to our dedicated lending specialists, the flying-through-the-air pair. We could all use a second pair. (WHIMPERS) At Specsavers, get specs and shades for $169, including single-vision lenses. Business restructure consultant? Did you just wake up one day and decide to do that full time? - Sort of, yeah. After I graduated business school, I got this sweet corporate job in the city, but I guess it never felt right. I wanted to help people, so I went off on my own. And it's been great, but... - But something's missing? - Yeah. I mean, I guess. I love my job and I love my work, it's just... sometimes it feels like... Is that your`? - Dad! What the heck? Dad, what are you doing? You're not supposed to be eating this stuff. - I'm just here for the company and the smell. - OK, good then. Sorry, I thought that` - I know. I'm taking care of my health. - OK. - Why are you here? - Blake here needs some real food. Right? - Yeah, I'm really hungry. I'm gonna go stand in line. - OK. - How's it going at the store? - It's good, you know. We're getting there. You just need to rest, Dad. - Going OK with Blake? - Yeah. He's trying. It's nice. It kind of feels like before he left, you know? - OK, then... we should, uh` We should head back. I'm, uh... I'm feeling tired. - What? - Are you almost done, Sof? - Just like one more minute, OK? I just want to finish my chips. - I'll go start the car. - OK. - Hey, we still need to talk about Iowa University, Sof. - Oh, is that where you're going? It's one of the best writers workshop in the country. - You know what? I'm just focusing on helping out right now. I can think about school later. - Yeah, she's not certain where she's gonna go yet. - DUKE: Hey, Sofi. You coming? - Uh... Yeah, I'm gonna` I'm gonna go. - OK, see you later. - I'll see you later. - What was that about? - I'll fill you in over these delicious sandwiches. Thanks, Bob. You've done it again` What? (both laughing) - Then the sprinklers went off. And then the tests got all wet and it took a week to retake them. - And then Principal Herman was like, 'What do you have to say for yourself, Blake?' And you're like, 'I love it when a plan comes together.' - Hey, we had a lot of good times in high school. - Yeah, we did. - Hey, do you ever wonder...? Nevermind. That's... - Wonder what? - Nothing. - Do you... ever wonder? - Yeah, all the time. I constantly think what life would be like if you got on that train. Why didn't you tell me you weren't gonna come? - I, uh... I tried, but... You know. - Yeah. (gentle music) I'm sorry I didn't call you about your mom. I wanted to when I heard about her illness, but... I don't know. I didn't think you wanted to hear from me. - It would've been nice to hear from you. The first year was the hardest. The few years after that weren't any better. So I moved in with my dad and Sofi just to make sure that they were OK. And I've just been there ever since, taking care of the store, taking care of both of them. - You did a great job stepping in for your mom. - You know,... my mom designed everything about that store. If we change everything, what will be left of her? - Is there anything you don't like about the store? - The sign. You know, I never liked that sign. - Me neither. - All right, we'll do what you said. - What's that? - Compromise. (gentle music continues) Deal. - Deal. - I don't think I'm doing this right. - No, it's great. Once that dries, we'll paint over it and it will be perfect. You know, I love this compromise because you get to keep your amazing windows and stop haemorrhaging costs. - Does that mean we make a good team? - Yes, but you might want to keep that in mind for this next part. But it's good, I promise. Now, we've maximised our usage of the shelves, but now we have this big empty corner in there and we need to figure out how to leverage that. - Hello! - Oh, Carol, over here. Hi. - Oh good, you're sprucing up the colour. - What was wrong with the other colour? - Oh, it was bland. Is that the colour you're going with? - Yeah. - Is Duke here? - Oh no, he's at home resting. I'll make sure to send him your best. - I'll just leave the money on the` - Oh yeah, mm-hmm. OK, bye, Carol. - That's a great colour and it matches everything. I swear everyone in this town has an opinion. - Wait, what did you just say? - It matches everything. - No, no, about Carol having an opinion? What if` I mean everyone has an opinion of the store. What if we pick their brains and ask them what they think could make the store better for them? - A focus group. That's a great idea. We should be gathering data on what they think. So... - Who are you calling? - Well, we should start calling people right now. We can't waste time. - Wait, let me get this straight. You are gonna call some people in town, right now, during the day, to save time? - Yes. - Uh... I don't think you understand. - OK, Jo, I went to business school in New York City, and I know you think we're just stuffed up suits, but we just might know more than you think and maybe we know a little bit more than you. - OK, New York. Sounds like you're right. You better get calling. You know what? I'm gonna help you out. - Sure, please do. - Here is Ms. Hayes number. She'll be your best bet to get a quick conversation. - Great. - There you go. - And I'm gonna use some of the marketing tools that I learned in school. - Huh, there you go. - Hey, Ms. Hayes. It's Blake Harris from Daisy Hills. I was` Yeah, Waylon's son. Yeah, I was wondering if` Brooklyn, yes. No, I got the braces off a long time ago. I` I was` No, they don't call me that anymore. No, I haven't seen Jonathan. I just got back. (gentle music) Yes, thank you, Ms. Hayes. It was very nice chatting with you also. OK, yep. Yes. OK then. OK. Bye. - So, how's Ms. Hayes doing? - She's good. She's got a new apple pie recipe that's really working out. - Oh, well, that only took about two hours. How many people do you think we need in our focus group? - Please never make me do that again. - Quick calls to people we haven't spoken to in a while isn't really something we do around here, Blake. That's what I was trying to tell you and your big New York city education. - I deserve that, I do. But I still think the focus group's a good idea. Is there any way we can, like, text everyone or something? I don't know. - Do you really think asking people questions will help you figure out how to move forward? - I know it will. - OK, then tomorrow we will do what we should have done today. (upbeat music) (car tooting) - Hey there, Bob. - Is Bob still doing the paper route? - Well, not everyone likes change, Blake. - You know the roots of that tree are tearing up the sidewalk, right? - Yes, they are. - Has anyone ever asked you to cut down that tree? - Yeah, they have. - And, let me guess, you said that that's not really an option because your mother loved that tree. - Nah, I like to keep that part to myself. - You ready? - Can't wait. So, are you sure what we need to do? - Yeah, well, it was my idea to talk to people in person, right? - Yeah, yeah. I just want to make sure we get the answers we want. - Is your girlfriend OK with you being such a micromanager? - Are you trying to find out if I have a girlfriend? - No, I'm just making small talk. - Oh, well, I bet your boyfriend hates small talk. Oh, wait, that's right. I don't think you have a boyfriend. - I might have a boyfriend. You don't know that. - Uh, I talked to Ms. Hayes forever on the phone yesterday. So there's nothing about this town I don't know. - You didn't answer my question. - Well, if I did have a girlfriend,... which I don't, she would love that I'm detail oriented. - Oh, detail oriented. - Yeah, that's right. - MOCKING VOICE: If I had a girlfriend. (gentle music) - So people around town are really gonna be OK with taking time out of their busy day to talk to us face to face? - Yeah, Blake, I may have left out a very important part. (cows mooing) - We're doing chores, aren't we? - You said you wanted a face to face with people, right? - Yeah, no, this` this is brilliant. The more we help them, the more they help us. - Hey, guys. - Hey Henry. Hope we're not too late. - Right on time. Come on. - OK. - Well, it's kinda been hard for a while, I guess. Getting through all the work seems to take longer and longer these days. - Everything seems to get slower every year, doesn't it? - Ain't that the truth? - You know, Henry, you're always whittling away at your wood. Do you have any finished pieces I could see? - Actually, uh... Yeah. - This is amazing. - You like it? - Are you kidding? Look at your workmanship. Henry, you're an artist. - It's just something` Come on. - Hey Blake, come over here and see this. - One sec, let me finish this. - Guess you can take the man out of the country, but not the other way around. - Yeah. - What's up? - Look at this. - What's this? - Henry's hobby. - Wow, really? - You know, if you like that, you should see the barn. - Yeah. - Wow. Henry, this.... - Whoa. (soft music) - This is incredible. You made all of these? - Well, I got to do something with my off time. - You ever heard of the internet? - I'm a multi-tasker. - Hey, thank you so much for talking with us. - Oh, you don't have to go so soon. I got a whole bunch of other chores I'd rather Blake do. - Next time. - Yeah, we got to meet Carol. - Well, yeah. It sure is good to see you two back together. You should come back again. - We're not. - Um... Should we just...? - Yeah, yeah. There she is. - Yeah. - Oh, hello. - Hey, Carol. Sorry we're late. - Hey. - Oh, no. (car beeping) - Good to see you. Yeah, it does that sometimes. - Well, what do you think? - I think you should come over and help me garden more often. - I'm wearing this correctly, right? - You fit right in. Great job, Blake, you really do have two green thumbs. - Well, you'd be surprised how much gardening there is in Brooklyn and beekeeping and there's yoga` - Bees? In the city? Don't they have enough trouble down there? - These are just gorgeous, Carol. Some of the most beautiful flowers I've ever seen. How'd you do it? - Well, you know, Blake, it's like everything else in life ` the more you put into something, the greater the results. But it really helps when you have people around you can rely on, like Jo here. You made a good move coming back for her. I'm glad to see the two of you getting back together. Now would anyone like some tea? I've got some in the house. - No, no, no, no, we're not, uh... - Oh no, I've got plenty of tea. How's Duke doing? Does he need a little visit? - Does Ms. Hayes know we're coming? - Yeah, she just wants us to go through a couple of records. - Nice. - OK, so don't go downstairs because Mrs. Hayes said that she didn't finish telling you the whole story about her cousin when you guys were on the phone yesterday. - Well, at least she doesn't think we're dating again. - She absolutely thinks that we're dating again. In fact, she said that I should come up here to have some, uh, time alone with you while you organise her records. - Well, get ready to be shocked because she's got everything. This collection's huge. Jazz, big band, classic rock, disco, kids pop. - Are you kidding me? I love this record. (upbeat music plays) Oh yeah. - Oh no, no, no, no, no. That is way, way, way too much. I think that goes off. - Oh, remember they played this at our prom? - I do remember that. Can you still do the thing? - Which thing? - You know the thing. You can do it. - Oh, the thing. OK. (giggling) Should we, uh... - Yeah. - Yeah, I think that we're done for today. (music stops) - Yeah, yeah. I'll keep organising and put those over there and you go on and... Boy, sitting in front of a computer does not make you feel like this. - You just need a good night's sleep. - I'm not tired. Well, I am tired. I'm fulfilled. When I first moved to Brooklyn, there is nothing that I thought I'd miss about small town living. Calloused hands, working out in the rain and the smell of fresh fertiliser on the ground. Just... What you take for granted is the things you end up missing the most. - Fresh fertiliser, huh? That's what you missed the most? - Well,... not as much as other things. (upbeat music) - Well, this was a great day, Blake. I will, uh, see you tomorrow. - Yeah, yeah. - OK. Bye. - Bye. Oh, hey, I have a thing tomorrow morning, so tomorrow afternoon. - OK. Bye. - Bye. (phone ringing) Blake Harris. - Hi, Mr. Harris It's Five Burroughs Consulting. We're just confirming tomorrow's final interview. We look forward to it. Thanks. - Great. - Hey. - Oh, hey. Where's Dad? - He went to bed. I just wanted to finish working on this piece. - Oh, what are you doing? - I'm not really sure yet. It's about our town. - Yeah. Can I read it? - When it's done. How was today? You seem smiley. - I'm not smiley. - Mm-hmm. - Is that the bag Blake gave you? - Yeah. - It is super nice. - Yeah, I love it. It's like he knew exactly what I needed. - Yeah, he does that. Hey what's this? - It's my rejection letter to Iowa. - Your rejection letter to Iowa? I thought you were gonna think about it. - I did think about it and I can't just up and leave you. You didn't leave Mom. - Sofi,... I didn't stay here for Mom or Dad. I stayed here for me. Some people have to leave their hometowns and some people don't. You have to do what's best for you. - OK. - Hey, you, uh,... hungry? Hmm? - Yeah. - Mmm, I am starving. OK, let's go. So I just turned on the record player and it was the song that played at our prom. So I just, you know, I started showing him my moves. - That's so cute. I can't believe you guys just started dancing. - It was really nice. Hey! - All right, ladies. Here you go. - Oh yeah. - These are the last of them. You guys came right on time. - Thank you. Looks delicious. Hey Bob, why don't you take a load off and join us, huh? would you like to join our Daisy Hills focus group? - Oh, would I? - Good. Great. Can I ask you a few questions? - Absolutely. - OK. - It's the lack of space that really kills me, you know? - It must be tough trying to find a new location every day. - Well, you know, sometimes I luck out and I get a permit. Other times, not so lucky, so I got to wait it out. But it's all good, you know? - Why go through all the trouble? - Cos I love feeding people, Jo. I love it. What else am I gonna do? What I wouldn't give... for a permanent location, you know? I would make any spot work and work that spot. (upbeat music) - Whoa, whoa, wait. Wait! Sorry, Sof. Yeah. Yeah! (upbeat music continues) Oh wait, wait, wait, wait, wait. Close your eyes. Close your eyes. Close 'em. - OK. - OK, put that down right there. - What's going on? - So, last night, Sofi and I were starving after you dropped me off and so we decided to grab a bite at Bob's. - Oh, he was still open? - Yeah, he works late, just in case he doesn't know where or if he'll have a spot the next day. - You know you guys should consider joining forces because that could benefit everyone. - Oh, wow, that is a good idea. - Tada. - Good thing I thought of it first. - You're a genius. - Wait, what was that? Could you say that louder for everyone to hear? - She's a genius. - Ah, yes, yes, yes. And Bob is gonna use his truck as the kitchen. And I was thinking he could stock some things just back here and we can maybe put some tables and chairs back there, that way everyone will know where Bob is all the time. It's a win for everyone. - Win, win, win. - I love it. This is amazing. - Ooh, was he surprised? - Yes, of course. - OK, we got to post this. Come here. - Ooh, yes. - Hey, you gotta get in here too. Come on. - Come on. - OK, ready? - Come to Bob's Ribs at the Daisy Hills Store. - Come get your grub on. - There we go. Here make sure you tag me so I can repost it, OK? - OK, all right. What should we do? #countrylife #bobsribstand? - Ribstand. - Yeah, there you go. - You sure you two don't want to enjoy this in real life? - You're just gonna have to get used to it 'cause we're gonna have an account up real soon. - Oh, really? - That's actually a good idea. - Hey, why don't we go all virtual? Like who needs walls and human interaction? Hey Bob, do you think we can have one of your sandwiches through social media? Is that possible? - Working on it. - Good call. - Hey, we're gonna get there. Baby steps. - Oh, are we? #virtualreality #bobsburgers on social media. - Place looks great, Jo. Hey, is this a Bob's new place for the week? - No, sir. This is Bob's permanent spot. - Right here. - Yup. - Well that will make things easier. - That's the point. Make sure that you share the news. That's old school for social media. So what's going on? Can I get you anything? - Actually I've got something for you, for both of you. I wanted you to have this for helping out yesterday. - Oh, it's beautiful. - Well, thank you. - We can't take this. - Of course you can. I love making those, but the real pleasure's in sharing them. - Why didn't we think of this? We could sell the woodwork here. - Yes. - Uh, sell my woodwork? - Yeah. - Your beautiful woodwork. - Oh, I don't know. Who'd even want to buy these? - I'd definitely buy something like this. - She's just being polite. - No, wait this is actually really, really nice. Yeah, I'm gonna go show Bob. - Yeah, we all like it. You said it yourself, you love sharing this with everyone. - Yeah, but` - Give everyone a chance to get one for themselves. - How would that even...? - How about this ` whatever we sell, you take 60, you take 40? As long as that's fair. - Yeah. - Fair would be 50/50. - OK, Henry. You got yourself a partner. - Thank you. Wow, this is... - There's a lot of talented people here. - I know. (gentle music) (rooster crowing) (whimsical music) (people chatter) - Um, can we put Ms. Hayes records just over there? Thanks. - Are you OK if I move this up against...? - Of course, yeah. Were you expecting me to put up a fight or something? - Hey, you are handling this remarkably well. - Well, Two-Weeks-Ago Jo would have been freaking out, but Today Jo is` - What about those? Do you mind if I get rid of them? - Whatever you need, Carol. I'm super proud of you. You're doing great. - Well, I think that there are those who love what they know and those who know what they love. And if you're lucky enough to figure out which one you are, you can do something about it. It's not about changing the store. It's about finding the root of the store. - Well, the hardest part is over. And moving forward, it's gonna be nice and easy. - How about the display? Do you mind if I just shift it? - Yes, Carol. Yeah. - Yeah, I think it'll be smooth sailing from` - (glass breaking) - Whoops. - I'm gonna go help Carol. - Yeah, that's a good idea. (gentle, whimsical music) - It'll be great once the display case is set up. - But what exactly are designer cupcakes? - Oh, they're different colours and they have stuff on top. She makes them herself. - So they're cupcakes? - No, Dad, they're not just cupcakes. - They are cupcakes. - No, they're not. - Hey did you know, we are selling designer cupcakes now? - It's an all new store here now, Dad. - Yeah. - You've done something really special here, Jo. Your mom would be so proud of you. - You're gonna make me cry. - Well, I'm still gonna say it. I couldn't be more proud. (gentle music) - Thank you. - There's just one more change. - You did this? - Well, Henry asked if we might need any new signage for the store and I swear someone said we did. - Yep, that was me. It's... It's perfect. I love it. (cat meowing) (gentle music) What is this? - Well, I talked to some guys and turns out you don't have to cut down the tree. You just build the sidewalk around it. Just` It might take a little bit. What? - When did you do this? - I told you I was busy yesterday. Do you like it? - It's wonderful. Care for a swing? - You did an amazing job, Jo. - We did, Blake. Listen, I know that I was hesitant at first, but you've really helped us out, so... thank you. - You're welcome. - What? - Why didn't you ask me to stay? - If you love something, let it go. I had to let you go, Blake. I always knew that I wanted to stay in Daisy Hills and that was best for me, but it wasn't best for you. I wish that we could have stayed together. And I often think... what would have happened if I would have followed you to NYU. But I can't think of what would have happened if I asked you to stay. That would have led to a life of regret. (gentle music) - I spent a lot of time in New York trying to figure out who I was or what I was doing, and I think I'm still trying to figure that out. But what I was looking for, it wasn't in New York. You're right. I would have regretted staying here. - I should go. - Hey. And I should have done this a long time ago. (music swells) - I'll see you tomorrow. Goodnight. (sighing and chuckling) - You totally made out with Blake. - What? No I` - Mm-hmm. - Why, did you see us? - OK, wait. Wait, what? No, I was kidding. You need to tell me everything. - Why are you still up? - I really want to finish up the story. OK, wait. Tell me, please. - OK, well... I'll tell you in five years. Goodnight. - OK, wait, I actually have a question. Please, it's not about that, it's about the store. I've been thinking, do we even have an advertising plan? - What do you mean? - Well, a lot of the community is invested in the store now, right? So how are we even gonna get people from outside of the town to know about it? - That's why we're gonna have a meeting tomorrow morning. - We are? - We are now. Goodnight. - OK, goodnight. - I don't see how that's old fashioned. I mean, a billboard was good enough for my daddy and his daddy before him. - And you don't see how that's old fashioned, Dad? OK, I got two words for you ` viral marketing. - That's a great idea, but you can't force those things. They have to be natural. I mean, how about we buy a` - OK, stop right there. We only have $500. And now we have $475. What can we even get for that? - A big old sign on the 163. Bring in folks off the main highway. - Well, can we even get a sign for less than $500? - Go talk to Brent. - The billboard guy. Eh, what the heck. Come on, Sof. You guys OK keeping at eye on the store? - We got it. - All right. (phone ringing) - Oh, I got to take this. Blake Harris speaking. - Mr. Harris, great news. We'd like to offer you the partnership at Five Boroughs. - That is great news. - We'd like you to start tomorrow morning. - Wow, that soon? - We're very excited to introduce you to the board. - Great. I'll give you a call later. - Sounds good. - OK? - OK. - Thank you. - Bye-bye. - Everything all right there, son? - I got the job. They want me in New York tomorrow morning. - Well, that seems like an opportunity. - It is. You ever get queasy making those big decisions, though? - Yeah. Yeah, I have. It just comes down to one or the other. Life is just one choice after another, and you don't know how it's gonna turn out. But as long as you're true to yourself, you're making the right decision. - You're right. I guess I got to take care of business then. (gentle music) - Hey, Dad. Have you seen my cell phone? - Uh, no. No, I haven't. - Is, uh... Where did Blake go? (sombre music) - He got the job. They want him to start tomorrow. I'm so sorry, Jo. - There's no apology needed. It's his dream job, after all. I, uh,... only wish he would've said goodbye. - Well, I'm sure he'll come see you before he leaves. - Won't that just hurt more? (sombre music continues) (sombre music) - I don't get it. Why didn't we get the billboard? - What if this is all just overboard? Maybe things were better for everyone the way they were before. - For everyone or for you? - Do you want to go to Iowa, Sof? - I can go to Hopewell U. It's a` It's a great school. - Yeah, but Iowa has the best programme for writing, right? - Yeah, but whatever, it's` it's fine. - Listen, Sof, if you don't follow your heart, one day you might wake up and wish you had, and it might be too late. - You and Dad are my heart too. - Dad and I want what's best for you. We'll be fine. - TEARFULLY: It's late. Can we go home? - SOFTLY: Yeah. Why don't you go out there? I'll meet you. - OK. (sombre music) - I'm gonna turn in, Sof. - I'm gonna stay up for a bit and finish my story. - You want to tell me what it's about? - What you were saying before ` life, choices, everything. - Well, I can't wait to read it. - Hey, where's Blake by the way? I haven't seen him in a while. - Uh... He's gone. Back to New York. - Wait, without saying goodbye? - Goodnight, Sof. (soft, plaintive music) (soft music continues) - SOFI: 'More than three decades ago, my mother pursued a dream, 'one she nurtured and cultivated. 'With my father's help, she designed, built and for many years, ran The Daisy Hills Store, 'a general store that became the heart of my hometown, 'a place where folks shopped, gathered and shared news.' (phone buzzing) (buzzing stops) (soft music continues) 'SOFI'S VOICE: As we grew, my older sister and I 'watched our mother pour her love into the store and the community. 'She taught us many lessons. 'These I cherish the most ` 'family first, 'every neighbour is family, 'and every member is responsible to the whole. 'When someone needs help everyone pitches in. 'When our mother became ill and finally let go of this world, all of Daisy Hill suffered. 'Recently, as I prepare to embark on my own adulthood, 'I've watched my sister shake off her pain and embrace change, revitalising the Daisy Hill Store. 'As the new store emerges, I hear my sister's words, '"Some folks love what they know and others know what they love. '"If you give yourself permission and enough space, you'll discover which one you are, '"hopefully in enough time to do something about it, in time to begin your journey." 'From me, I hope you'll swing by these parts and visit the new Daisy Hill Store. 'Let us welcome you to our family's second home, 'because in Daisy Hill's everyone's family.' (gentle music) (soft, intriguing music) - Hi, this is Jo. I` I'm calling in regards to my sister, Sofi Mason. Uh... You know, this is` this is really weird talking to the voicemail, but hopefully you can just call me back tomorrow. Listen, Sofi is the best writer that you have accepted into your programme. And she is` she is good. And she has rejected your acceptance because of me and because of my Dad and because of this town. You have to reject her rejection and you have to accept her and... Don't take my word for it. In fact,... I am going to send her amazing, incredible, heart-wrenching story to your page right now and you will see. Please, please, please read it. We cannot let this girl fall through the cracks, not for me, not for anyone. And I know that when you read it, you will call me back. Again, my name is Jo Mason. My number is 555-3721. Thank you. (sighs) Hi, this is Jo Mason. I think I missed a call from... Iowa University. Oh. Oh my goodness. Yeah, that was me. Look, I'm really sorry about the` You did? You do? Really? Yes, I` I meant it. Yeah, she's here... somewhere. Can I get her to call you back? Yes, today, for sure. OK, thank you so much. OK, bye. - Jo, you shared my story? - Look, I had to. It was perfect. - You don't understand what you just did. - No, you don't understand, Sofi. I love you, and I am your sister... - (groans) - ...and I think you can do no wrong, but that is not why I shared it. Look, you are insanely talented and by the time I was done reading your story, I was moved to tears, and I couldn't not share it. You want to go to Iowa. You have to go to Iowa. It's what's best for you. - Jo, stop, OK! It wasn't even finished, It was a work in progress, and now two million people have seen my draft. - Wait,... two million people? - You shared my story with the University of Iowa last night. You didn't private message them. You posted it to their page And it sort of went viral. - That means they liked it. - Yeah, 2.1 million people,... to be exact. - Oh my goodness. Oh my goodness, that explains the phone call. - What phone call? - Where have you been? I've been calling you all night. - What are you doing here? - I had to come here because you won't answer your phone. Is it broken or...? - No, I` I was just ignoring it. I didn't know what to say to you. - What? Why? - Dad said that you were leaving. - He said what? OK, that doesn't matter. I have to` - No, you know what? It doesn't matter. The point is I want you to know that if you need to go to New York again, then that's OK. I just` I couldn't hear your voice. I'm sorry. It just` It made me feel too sad. - Jo, I'm not going to New York. - What? - You made me understand that that's not what I want, that's not what I'm missing. - Well, that was easy. - I was never gonna take the job. Well, not never, but you made me realise that... I've already found my missing piece. And it's not some big job. It's you. And it's always been you. And when I told your Dad that I had to take care of some stuff, I think he misunderstood. I had to get my stuff shipped here. I'm moving to Daisy Hills. Well, as long as you'll have me. - SOFI: Kiss her already. Come on. (soft, romantic music) - Oh, wait, I came here for a reason. I have to show you guys something and we got to go now. - What? Where are we going? - Yeah, right now. Let's go. - Like literally right now? Why? - Come on. Let's go. - Why are you` What is happening? We just had a nice moment and this is what you do? - We'll have more. OK, so you shared Sofi's story last night. - Yeah, we know. - You did a great job by the way and a lot of other people think so too. - Yeah, we're way ahead of... What the...? - Are you? - Do you see this, Sof? What in the world is happening? - This is what I've been trying to tell you. People have come from all over. Everyone who read that story wants to see Daisy Hills community. They want to be part of it. - This is amazing. - Jo, Sofi, there you are. - Hey. - People will come here and buy what the community makes as long as we keep making it. - That... 'we' part of the sentence sounds extra nice. - It's been like this all morning. They just` They just keep coming. Heck, Carol sold enough this morning to cover a month's worth of feed. It's` It's incredible. And your story brought them here. It was` It was wonderful, sweetheart. I didn't realise` I mean, heck, everyone says they're a good writer, but you? You're amazing. - That's the power of your words, Sof. That's why you need to go to Iowa. - Wait a minute, Iowa University? - I'm sorry, Dad. I applied just to see if I could get in, and then I did. I'm not gonna go. - You should go. Look around. I mean, you have a talent. Just look at what your writing's already done. - You should go. - What about you? What about Dad? Who is gonna help you run this? - I, uh... I think Blake and I have this under control. - We sure do. - Blake and I will take care of this place, Dad will finally retire, and you,... you will be able to do what's in your heart. - But I can't. I already sent them the letter telling them I don't accept. - Well, I talked to them this morning, and, uh, they are eager to ignore the letter. And it's clear why. Yeah. - Do it, sweetheart. - (squeals excitedly) (all laugh) - I have to go tell my friends. I'm going to Iowa. Oh my God. - Well let's go sell everything we got. - OK. - You'll be done before dinner, though, right? - I sure will, Carol. She` She` She asked if she could... cook me up a healthy meal, and you know, I gotta... keep watching what I eat. - Oh yeah. So, um, you really think you're gonna stay? - I think I decided that the moment I saw you at Sofi's party. (gentle, romantic music) Captions were made with the support of NZ On Air. www.able.co.nz Copyright Able 2021