- [School Bell Rings] - [Excited Chattering]
[Boys] We rock! We rock!
[Boy #2] I am outta here!
[Chattering Continues]
Dear Sara
Thanks for being so special
Toodles!
Fiona
- So my mom took away my iPod - No way
Can you believe it? For a whole month I don't know how I'm gonna live without it
- Rachel? - But you still have your Blackberry, right?
- Yeah - Rachel?
Do you think you could sign my yearbook?
- Don't have a pen Sorry - Right
- I can't believe she just asked me that - [Giggles]
- Thanks, Fiona - Have a super summer
Next
Aubry? Could you sign my yearbook?
Oh, I'll have to get back to you on that
Right
Uh, Sara, could you please just give me a mercy signing?
[Sighs] Fine
- Who are you? - Moondance Alexander
- What grade are you in? - Ninth
I'm just really short
Thank you Well, have a good summer
See you later
[Rachel] Oh, there's Fiona
- Hey, girls - Hey
Megan, my gum is stale
And I'm supposed to do what?
Duh! Kleenex
- Don't have one, Fiona - Don't look at me
- Hey, Moonwalk - Hi Well, it-it's Moondance, actually
Whatever Do you want me to sign your yearbook?
Yeah Yeah, that'd be great
- Cute shirt, Moondance - Oh, totally
- [Moondance] Thanks - [Girl] Is it vintage?
Um, I don't think so Why?
I had one just like it when I was 12
- There you go - Thanks
Hey, josh Did you sign Moondance's yearbook?
Um, no, not yet
- Oh, no - Oh! That's foul
- [All Laughing] - What a freak!
Hey, Moondance Is it true your middle name is Uranus?
Hey, man!
[Woman] (music) Can't hold on to the words
(music)I seem to be so ordinary
(music)Not like I've ever heard
(music)It seems to be the same old story
(music)No more waiting patiently
(music)For you to make a fool of me
(music)So I can't hold on
(music)So I will finally walk away
(music)And call it a day
(music) Call it a day
[Sniffles]
Hi, Daddy [Sniffles]
School's out today and I made a complete idiot of myself again
I won't go into all the gory details, but trust me
It was really horrific
And, in case you were wondering
my friend roster is at an all-time low
I don't mean to complain It's just
[Sighs] You're the only one I can tell
Mom would only flip out and try to fix it
She keeps saying that I'm different because I'm destined for something special
Only wish I knew what that something was
That way it could start happening
Like now
Maybe you could put in a rush order for me?
Well... [Sighs] I gotta go
but thanks for listening, Dad
You always make me feel better
I love you
- Hi - Hello
[Bell Rings On Door]
Hi, Mr. McClancy
Oh, hello, Moondance
Well, I see you got through another year of school
Yes, thank goodness I don't think I could have lasted another day
Oh Well, you've got the whole summer ahead for fun
- You got any big plans? - No
- I think I'm just gonna focus on my work - Your work?
Well, that... that's good Well, I got a couple of deliveries here for you
One of 'em goes to your mama's studio
And these are horse supplements that, uh, go to this address
Now, it's on the edge of town, so I drew a little map for you on the back of the receipt
- Okay - And you can drop it off there
If there's no one around, you can just drop it in the mailbox, okay?
Sounds good Thanks, Mr. McClancy
Yeah
- Yes, yes - [Bell Rings On Door]
Let's see Oh
Very nice, Rose
But I'm still sensing some anger in your work
I tried to soften the eyes a little
Yes, and that... and that helped
I would just love to see you branch out a little
Maybe try a more uplifting subject matter
I paint what I feel
Okay then Oh, Ben, that is really very nice
- Oh, uh, thank you, Gelsey - That was great choice of colors
- Hey, Mom - Oh, hey, honey
- I got your supplies - Hey, would you like to stay for our visualization exercise?
- The subject today is fruits of the garden - Uh, no, thanks
I think I know what a tomato looks like
I still have another delivery to make, but I will make sure I am home by dinner
Okay Don't be late I'm making something special
- Special? - Mm-hmm
Miso-baked tofu with Cambodian-style pineapple glaze
Cambodian pineapple?
It sounds wonderful
It is
It really is
Okay, Mom, I'm gonna go
- Okay - I'll see you later
You know, with the sweet and then the spicy
- it's just a really interesting combination - Yeah
- Hi there - Hi, Moondance
Hmm? Well, this must be the place
- [Twig Snaps] - [Gasps]
[Rustling]
Hello?
Who's there?
Is anyone there?
[Rustling]
[Pounding]
[Neighing]
[Grunts]
Hey there
You just about gave me a heart attack
Where's your owner?
Are you alone out here?
You look like you could use a good brushing
Or a bath
Or both Where do you live?
[Laughs]
Well, what am I supposed to do with you?
It's getting dark out
And I can't just leave you here in the middle of the road
[Sighs]
I think you're gonna come home with me
It's okay I'm just gonna put this around you
Easy
You ready? Come on [Clicks Tongue]
Come on
- Mom - Yeah?
- Stop cooking - Why? What's the matter?
- I need you to come with me - Well, w-w-wait Moondance
- Honey, where are we going? - You'll see
Moondance, why are you being so mysterious?
Don't worry It's all good
- I hope it's all good - It is
- Ta-da! - What am I looking at?
- Well, he was just right here - Who was?
- There you are - It's a horse!
- It's a pinto - It's eating my organic apples!
Can you believe it? I found him
- What do you mean, you found him? - Well, I was doing a delivery
You know, the one right after I saw you
I was on this really creepy road and I thought that somebody was following me
But then he jumped out and I thought that he was a possible stalker
But he's a horse You can obviously tell that he's neglected and really hungry
So I couldn't just leave him there in the middle of the road
Mom, I think he's homeless
[Scoffs] Moondance, this horse is not homeless
He's gotten out somehow and now he's lost
But we don't know that
Well, you know what? We'll call Mr. McClancy
I'm sure he can help us find the owner No!
Sorry, Mom
Ah
Okay, Buck Yeah, thank you very much I really appreciate all your help
We'll talk to you tomorrow Bye-bye
Mr. McClancy said that there are only a few farms in that area
So he's gonna make some calls and get back to us tomorrow
I never made my other delivery
You'll have to do it first thing in the morning, after you find the horse's owner
- That stinks - Well, that's life
Why don't I finish dinner and you go say good night to your temporary visitor?
Oh, and whoa, whoa Here
- Give him this and tell him to lay off my art - Thanks, Mom
Hi there Oh, your forelock's all dirty
Want some apple? Yeah
There you go You like that, don't you?
I wonder who your owner is
Well, whoever they are, they should be flogged, 'cause you're a mess!
See, if I were your owner, I would take really good care of you
And you know what else? L... I would name you Checkers
- I think you would like Checkers - [Nickers]
Well, then, I think Checkers it is
My name is Moondance Alexander
[Checkers Nickers]
(music)(music) [Humming]
- [Loud Banging] - Whoa!
[Moondance Grunts]
[Grunting]
[Gasps, Groans]
That was a little painful, but fun Yeah, old buddy?
- Moondance! - Come on Let's do it again
Moondance! Young lady, what do you think you're doing?
Um, nothing just going for a little workout
No, you're not! Get down off that horse right now!
- But, Mom, can't... - Moondance Alexander, this is not your horse
Now get off I'm not gonna tell you again!
- Why are you freaking out? - I just saw you flying through the air like Wonder Woman
I mean, thank goodness you're not hurt You're not hurt, are you?
- No! - Look, honey, you don't know this horse
He-He could have trampled you to death
and goodness knows whatever else a wild animal like this is capable of
- Checkers isn't wild - Checkers?
L-I named him temporarily
[Horn Honks]
Mr. McClancy is here to get the horse
- I'm sorry, sweetheart - That's all right
I guess all good things must come to an end
No Come on, Checkers
Hi there
- Well, I take it, uh, this is the escape artist, huh? - Yes, sir
Well, good thing you caught him No telling what kind of trouble he'd gotten into
- [Chuckles] - Who's he belong to, Buck?
A guy over at, uh, Tumbleweed Stables
Would you mind if I went with you to drop him off?
I think you have that delivery to make this morning
Oh, right I'm sorry about that, Mr. McClancy
Well, that's all right You can make it up to me if you help me load the horse
Yeah I'd like that
Come on, Checkers
[Checkers Neighs]
- [Buck] Well, that does it - Thanks again for everything, Buck
No problem No problem at all
[Door Opens]
[Neighs]
Bye, Checkers
Don't worry, honey We'll find something fun for you to do this summer
Sure, Mom
[Neighing]
- [Air Hissing] - Whoa!
[Screams]
[Crash]
[Groans]
Oh, well, this is just perfect
Tumbleweed Stables? No way!
[Neighing]
Hello? Is anyone here?
[Horse Snorts]
Checkers? How are you?
They got you locked up, don't they?
- Well, can't say that I blame them - [Door Opens]
- Who are you? What do you want? - Oh, um, I'm the one who...
- Speak up - Well, l-m-I'm...
- I'm trying - You're trespassing
You know that, don't you?
I'm the one who found your horse
You found my horse?
Yes, sir Um, I was just coming by to check and make sure that he's okay
He's fine
Right Well I can see that
Can I ask you what his name is?
- Tinkerbell - Tinkerbell? But he's a boy
Mm-hmm
Well, I was wondering How did he get out?
That's for me to worry about
Okay I guess I'll be leaving then
Can I ask you just one more thing?
What?
Do you need any help around this place?
- I mean, I was looking for a second summer job - I'm not hiring
Right Well, you don't have to pay me
- How about a trade? - What kind of trade?
I could clean out the stalls and feed the horses
and in exchange, you can let me ride Tinkerbell
What's your name?
Moondance Alexander
Hmm Good name
Thanks Nobody's ever said that before Well, except my mother
I'm Dante Longpre
It's nice to meet you, Mr. Longpre
So, what do you say? Is it a good trade?
Sorry
- Well, is... is that a "no"? - [Snorts]
- I'm thinking - Right! No You... You think
Check that out
It was off the wall Loved it
Nice pants
You know, Moondance, we do have this new thing called dry cleaning
- I had an accident - That's more than we needed to know
I'm just curious Do you ever look in the mirror before you leave the house in the morning?
L... I never really thought about it
- You should try it sometime - Yeah, it's actually offensive
that we have to experience your fashion disasters on a daily basis
Well, then... then don't look
- Like we have a choice - Whatever
Oh, my God That is such a great shot
Oh, my gosh
[Grunting]
Oh, I gotta get this
- Freddie, you're such an oaf! - [Camera Phone Clicks]
This is going straight on the Internet
Hey! Megan, Fiona, check this out
[Groans]
- [Gasps] I'm sorry - Sorry
Well, it looks like you ate it
Yeah It... It was really intense
- What happened? - I hit a rock
- Oh - Yeah, guess it's really stupid, huh?
Nah You're bleeding
I am? Oh, yeah, I am, I guess
I got this skateboarding yesterday
- Oh, that looks like it really hurts - Ah, no biggie
Right
'Kay Well, see you around
Yeah I'll...
- [Bell On Door Rings] - I'll see you, josh
[Door Closes]
[Mr. McClancy] Well, what do we have here?
- Do you think you can fix it? - Oh, I don't know
Looks pretty serious
- I think I can fix it - Thanks
I'm working on some really big plans for this summer So I need to be pretty mobile
- Oh, big, huh? - Yeah
- There's just one more hurdle I have to get over - Well, what's that?
- My mother - Oh
Mom, I need you to put down your paintbrushes and just breathe for a second
Moondance, I have a class in five minutes
Well, then clear your chi or cleanse your chakra
or whatever it is that you have to do to have a fresh perspective
Mom, please
[Inhales, Exhales]
Okay, I'm as ready as I can be on such short notice
Okay I'm going to clean stalls and work around the barn for Mr. Longpre
and in exchange he's going to let me ride Tinkerbell
I'm sorry Can you run that by me again? Who's Mr. Longpre?
He's the owner of Tumbleweed Stables
Well, what were you doing there? I thought you had that delivery to make this morning
Yeah, and I did That's how I found the place
See, all I need is to have your permission
- Who's Tinkerbell? - That's Checkers
- Moondance - Mom, please Think about it
This is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity
I mean, it'll help me build valuable life skills
- Cleaning stalls? - It'll help build my character
I think your character is big enough
Oh, and it'll teach me humility
Oh, you know what? You just stop quoting me
- What about your job with Mr. McClancy? - Well, I can do both
[Sighs]
Before I say anything, I want to meet this Mr. Longpre
Great! Thank you We can go after your class Thank you, Mom!
[Squeals]
[Clears Throat] So, Mr. Longpre
what exactly do you expect from my daughter?
- Mom, I already told you... - Excuse me I would like to hear it from Mr. Longpre
- What time do you want her to start in the morning? - 6:30, sharp
Did you hear that, Moondance? She's really not a morning person
I am too Well, I will be for this
And I don't want any of your noisy friends around here
- No problem there Don't have any - Well, that's not true
Yes, it is Mom, come on
It's time that you face reality
Anyway, about her riding, I really must insist that she wear a helmet
And I don't want her doing anything crazy when no one's here
- Mom, I don't need a babysitter - And about that horse
Is there something you can do to settle it down before she gets on it?
The two of them were just tearing around our yard like maniacs this morning
Look, I don't need your daughter's help
She came to me, she asked for a fair trade
I agreed She works hard, she gets to ride
And that's all I expect out of her
Here
You can borrow this
[Clears Throat] Well, um, great
That's... That's all I needed to know
Well, here you go I thought I'd jazz up our veggie burgers with soy cheese
- What I would give for a Big Mac right now - [Clears Throat]
Well, you used to let me eat them
Well, that's before I saw Super Size Me Do you want some amino acid?
No, thanks I'd rather die
You know, honey, you said something today that was a little upsetting
Yeah? What was that?
That you don't have any friends
Oh Yeah, that
Well, what happened to Mary Powell? Did you guys have a falling out?
Uh, no She was my math tutor You paid her to come over
Oh Well, how about Ernie Shmelding?
- Uh, he moved - He did?
Yeah, like last year
Wow Oh! You know that Veronica from my art class?
Now, she seems like a really nice girl Maybe we could invite her over for tea
Mom! She's old She's like 20
Well, then I don't know what to say
You don't have to say anything I mean, I've come to grips with my situation
And besides, I've got a new four-legged friend
Just promise you'll be careful out there
I will Don't worry I'll even wear that funky helmet
Thank you Now eat your dinner
Yeah, that, uh, soy cheese really kicks it up a notch
- [Laughs] - I don't know why you make me eat these
- Kids should not have to eat veggie burgers - It's not that bad
Mom, it's not beef I love beef
[Laughs]
[Woman] Tired of waiting Gets so frustrating
- [Ringing] - (music) Well, it's time to move
(music) Gonna make changes Some rearranging
(music) Got nothing to lose
(music)I've been lost it seems most all the time
(music)Now on my own and I don't mind
- (music) The sun's about to shine - Hot!
(music)It only gets better from here
(music) Clouds are starting to clear
(music) There'll be no more stormy weather
(music)It's gonna get better than this
Hi there, big boy
- How are you doing this morning? - [Neighs]
I have a treat for you if you promise not to tell my mom
[Door Opens]
Good morning, Mr. Longpre
You may as well start with Tinkerbell's stall
- You gonna help? - Here
Probably need that too
- (music)It's a long road home - Tinkerbell
(music)And I'll get there
(music) When I do I'll be so aware
(music)Every time that someone cares
(music)It only gets better from here
(music) Clouds are starting to clear
(music) There'll be no more stormy weather
(music)It's gonna get better than this
(music) 'Cause now I insist
(music)I've got my life together
(music) The time is finally here
- (music)It only gets better - [Gasps]
Wait Wait
(music)lf you never take chances you will never know
- Okay - (music)It's a wonderful feeling
(music) To finally let go
- Okay - Through all this confusion you'll find you'll be
Well, that... that was supposed to be my job
- Okay Okay - Have at it
[Grunts]
(music)It only gets better
Yeah Good, huh?
(music) There were times I thought I never should
- (music)Somehow I felt I understood - [Clears Throat]
- Sorry - [Coughing]
I'm gonna come back later
(music)It only gets better from here
(music) Clouds are starting to clear
(music) There'll be no more stormy weather
(music)It's gonna get better than this
(music) 'Cause now I insist
(music)I got my life together
(music)My time is finally here
(music)It only gets better
I'm finished, Mr. Longpre
- Did you give Fireball his supplements? - Yes, sir
What about the water trough in the pasture? Did you check it?
I filled it to the brim and made sure that I locked the gate behind me
Okay, go into the tack room
get that little western saddle with the striped blanket
- I'll be in there in a minute - Yes!
Sorry I won't make any more noise
Give a good tug on the cinch like that
and the rabbit back through the hole, got it?
Got it Now, how often do you wash the saddle blanket?
- Don't worry about the saddle blanket - Okay
- You can get on now - Okay
- Uh-uh Wrong side - [Neighs]
Don't be darting around Horses are unpredictable animals
You gotta think before you move Get on the box
Here Come on, Tinkerbell
Whoa
And always get on from the left
- How come? - Stop asking so many questions
- Sorry - And stop apologizing all the time
- Okay - Put your helmet on
- Right - All right Good
- You've got a natural seat - I do?
Yeah Sit up straight Good
- Keep the weight on the balls of your feet and your heels down - Okay
- Can I ask you one more question? - If you must
How did he get the name Tinkerbell?
He, uh... He came with that name when I bought him
Well, I don't think he likes it Does he look like a Tinkerbell to you?
- No - I think that he should be called Checkers
[Sighs] Call him whatever you want
Take him in the ring
Checkers
Good name
- [Gelsey] Sweetheart? - Mm-hmm?
Sweetheart, have you, uh, seen my car keys?
No Did you check your purse?
Oh, no Where is my purse?
I'll help you find it
Oh, where did I put it?
- I wonder if I left it upstairs - Ah, here it is
Oh, thank you Thank you very much
- Ah - What's going on, Mom?
Um, nothing
- You look pretty - Well, thank you
I mean, you always look pretty It's just that today you look extra pretty
Well, remember I told you, I'm going to that poetry reading
And that's it?
All right If you must know, I'm... I'm meeting someone there
Oh, you are? Well, who?
It's no big deal I mean, it's just a casual thing
No big deal? Well, when were you planning on telling me this?
Well, who is it, Mom? L-I need names
Names? How many people do you think I'm going out with?
So it is a date It's that guy from the juice bar, isn't it?
No, it's not the guy from the juice bar His name is Ben
Ben, your student Ben? The one with the tie and the button-down?
Well, yeah, but why do you say it like that?
Just be prepared
- For what? - I think that he's a meat eater
Well, I ju... Okay, you know what? Just hold on Why?
Why are you being so negative?
Because you've tried this before and it's never worked
You know, I've... I've gone on four dates in the last three years
- Oh, no, I'm missing a button - See? He's already got you all off-kilter
No, he hasn't You have
I just don't understand why you can't be happy with the way things are
Why do you have to go and change everything?
Sweetheart, I'm not changing anything
I'm going to a poetry reading Oh, and now I'm late
So go
Well, I don't feel good about leaving you like this
Mom, I'm fine
- I don't believe you - I am
- Really - All right
- Well, how do I look? - You look great
- Thanks Okay, I'll be home before 9:00 - Okay
- And, um, I have my cell phone if you should need me - Mom, just go
Okay I'm going
- I'll be fine - Okay
[Footsteps Approaching]
[Sighs]
There you are
[Sighs]
I wish you were here, Dad
- [Knocks] - Hey
I just wanted to let you know I was home
Mmm How'd it go?
It was very nice
That's good
Is that Daddy's sweater?
Yeah
Sweetheart, I want you to know something
You're the most important thing in the world to me and nothing would ever change that
I know that
And I will always love your father
No matter what happens, I would never try to replace him
You understand that, don't you?
I'm trying to [Crying]
I know
I know it hurts
But it's gonna be okay
Really, it is
I love you, Mom
I love you too
[Neighing]
[Birds Twittering]
Moondance Hi
- You trying to wear a hole in that leather? - No
- Sorry - You know what time it is?
Around 8:00?
No It's time for your one-month evaluation
- It is? - Mm-hmm
- What evaluation? - To see if you and Checkers are ready to go out on a trail
- A trail? - Yeah And you passed
So saddle up
This is a really pretty area
And I can tell Checkers likes it too
You're a good match for that horse
- It's funny how we met each other, isn't it? - Yep
- Some might call it destiny - That's what my mom says
So, how long have you been riding, Mr. Longpre?
If you're gonna keep up with the questions, you may as well call me Dante
Okay How long have you been riding, Dante?
- Pretty much my whole life - Oh, wow
That's a long time You're really lucky
I think Buddy's picked up something in his hoof
- Well, is that bad? - No, I'll just have to pry it out
Hey, while you do that, can I go trot Checkers around that bend and bring him back?
Yeah, okay Just don't go too far
Okay [Clicks Tongue]
Come on, Checkers
[Chuckles]
Hi, Megan Hi, Fiona
Hi, Moondance I didn't know you rode
- Yeah I just started this summer - What kind of a horse is that?
This is Checkers He's a pinto
I've never seen one at Devonshire
- Because we don't ride that breed - Why not?
Because pintos can't jump
Come on, Megan Let's get out of here
- You know them? - Yeah They're friends from school
Hmph They don't seem very friendly
No, I guess we're more like rivals
Well, they shouldn't talk about things they don't know anything about
Why? What don't they know?
- Checkers is a very good jumper - He is?
Excellent, as a matter of fact
How do you think he keeps getting out?
Wait! Well, Dante!
When were you planning on telling me this? Dante! Wait for me
[Snorts]
Checkers, I don't know what I'm doing, so I'm just gonna follow you
- [Neighs] - Hyah!
Whoa! [Grunts]
[Groans]
Checkers, you were great
- I can do better - Moondance!
Uh-oh
- What are you doing? - Oh...
You see... Oh, well, um
Checkers and I were just testing out his jumping capabilities
Not like that you're not Come on
But, it... it was just our first attempt
I'm sorry, Dante Look
Just-just don't... don't be mad at me
- Why were you riding bareback? - Well, I read that the western saddle is too heavy for jumping
Well, that's right But that's still no excuse
I know it was stupid I'm sorry
If you're gonna jump that horse, do it right
Here
This is an English saddle
- The girth's right there - Oh
Hey, this is you!
- Yeah So what? - You never told me that you jumped
- You never asked - Well, can you teach me?
- Nope - Why not?
'Cause that part of my life is over
What do you mean by "over"?
If you know how to jump, then why not teach?
I mean, why do you live in this place all alone? Where are all your customers?
That's enough!
What I do with my life is none of your business
[Door Slams]
[Sighs] I'm sorry
I didn't mean to ask so many personal questions
You don't need to apologize
They were good questions Deserve an answer
You want to know why I don't have any customers?
[Sighs] I made some
bad choices in my life
and it's affected my reputation
And once you've lost that, it's hard to get back
I think everyone deserves a second chance
- You think so, huh? - Yeah
I mean, you're a cool dude and have a lot to offer
"Cool dude"
- I've never been called that before - Well, it's true
And all you need is one spunky, hardworking student who believes in you
and the word will get out
[Sighs] And just where do you think
I'm gonna find this spunky student?
Drop your weight in your heels
You want to stay perfectly balanced
Extend your arms
Good
Okay, take the reigns
That's good
Very good Anticipate his every move
Good
[Chuckles]
And... [Laughs]
[Whinnies]
Soft hands Good
Right leg Good
Good!
Uh-huh
- [Horse Whinnying] - Ah-ah-ah-ah! Keep your eye on the jump
Soften your hands
[Grunts] Sorry, Dante
Good [Chuckles]
Here, Checkers
Are you ready? Come on!
- [Whinnies] - [Laughs] All right!
[Giggles] I'm over here! Now I'm over here!
Wanna see this one?
- [Whinnies] - Come on, Checkers!
[Laughs] Whoo!
Oh! Yea!
- [Whinnying] - Up! Up!
Whoo!
Mom, I'm home
Mom?
[Man, Woman Chattering, Laughing]
We're pretty good eaters
Moondance There you are
Uh, gentlemen, this is my notoriously late daughter, Moondance
- Honey, this is Ben - So nice to meet you officially, Moondance
And I think you already know Ben's son, josh
Hey, Moondance
- Hi - Nice crash helmet
Oh Right
Um, I'm... I'm sorry, but would you please e-excuse me for a moment?
Well, uh, we could all use a little more iced tea I'll be right back
Moondance!
Moondance, wait up!
- I cannot believe that you did this to me - Did what?
I told you Ben and his son were coming for dinner The least you could've done was been on time
I think you owe me an apology
I'm sorry I was late I completely forgot
- Are you sure you didn't forget on purpose? - No! I promise!
All right You're forgiven
I can't believe he saw me like this
I don't understand why you're being so dramatic
Because you never told me that Mr. Button-down's son is josh Wilson
Now he's here in this house and I look like this Thank you!
First of all, his name is not Mr. Button-down It's Ben, and he's wearing a V-neck
Well, whoop-di-la-da-do!
[Gelsey] Well, if you're done, I'll take your plates
That was a, um... a wonderful and very innovative dinner
I could've sworn that eggplant was chicken
Mom can make anything taste like chicken
Well, I'm glad you liked it, Ben
Uh, um, yeah Thanks That was... It was really good
[Chuckles] You're welcome
Mom, let me help you with the dishes
- Oh, no, I'll get it - We'll be right back
Okay
[Laughs, Sighs]
I hope you have a fire extinguisher, because I think I'm going down in flames
It wasn't that bad, was it?
Yeah, you're right
Ben, I'm sorry
Nah, don't be We all just have to get to know each other
Well, I found out that Josh is definitely not an eggplant man
[Both Laughing]
But it's good for him to expand his palate You should try it sometime
- Me? - Uh or maybe not
Uh, y-your mom seems pretty cool
She is
I mean, besides her recent obsession with tofu, she's awesome
Yeah, I guess my dad really likes her
Where's your mom?
Uh, she took off to Miami with her boyfriend
Yeah He's a jerk
I'm really sorry
It's okay
This is weird, huh?
Definitely
Hey, Moondance
So, are you gonna go watch the Bow River Classic?
Um, I'm not sure Are you?
[Laughs]
- You're kidding, right? - Fiona won the Classic last year
[Fiona] And Megan came in fourth
- Third! - Sorry! Third
Hey, I have an idea
Since you like being around horses, you could volunteer as one of our grooms
Love it!
- You don't know how to tack up a horse, don't you? - Of course she does
Remember, Megan She rides that little Indian pony
What's his name? Crackers!
- It's Checkers - [Fiona] Whatever
- And he's actually jumping now - Really?
In that case, why don't you enter him in the competition?
- [Car Horn Honks] - Oh Gotta run Toodles
- [Car Door Shuts] - [Engine Revs]
- What's this? - Checkers and I want to enter the competition
Don't be ridiculous
Checkers can't compete in the Bow River Classic
Why not? He loves to jump
It's not his place
But it is That's why he kept jumping out of the paddock
He was trying to tell you something
And that's how we met each other
- Hmm - See? It's his destiny
I don't care how well he jumps
The fact is
Checkers isn't a blue-blooded thoroughbred
But that's why he's so special
He won't be judged fairly
- Well, they have to at least give him a shot - They won't
It's the unspoken rule
I'm sorry
But that's just wrong
Think about all the pinto ponies that can't compete just because they're the wrong color
Checkers can out jump those fancy horses any day
It's impossible
Be up against some of the best trainers in the country
Are you afraid that Checkers won't be judged fairly
or that you won't?
Maybe both
Well, then you both have something to prove
People are never going to change unless you give them a reason
[Sighs]
All right, fine
Let's see if we can give 'em a reason
- Like that? - You rushed it a little
- [Sighs] - Try it again
Come on [Clicks Tongue]
Was that good?
- Better - [Checkers Snorts]
[Moondance] Where are we going?
- Walk the course - Wh-What about Checkers?
Leave him Five, six, seven, eight
Okay, I counted eight paces
Checkers' stride is three
How many strides are you gonna make
if you add two for the takeoff and landing?
- You mean we have to do math? - Yep
Well, can I go get my pocket calculator?
- Kidding! - Well, get serious
You entered into the Hunter division
And that means you can't just run around clearing jumps
The judges are going to be looking for finesse
- They are? - Yes, ma'am
And if you know how many strides you're taking
then you and Checkers will be in sync
So, how many times does three go into eight, minus the two extra?
- Two - Good!
Did you hear that, Checkers? We got a "good"!
That was for the math, not your riding
[Sighs]
By the weekend, you need to be practicing in your show boots
- But I don't have show boots - You'd better get some
- Get Checkers tacked up - Yes, sir
Hurry up!
Let me see Ladies riding boots
There's, uh... Oh, here we go Here we go
Oh, those are lovely
Except that they're $549
Oh, my goodness!
[Laughs] You could buy a whole horse for that!
There must be something cheaper in here Let's see if we can find it
Oh, you know what? Those are better... 185
Mom, have you forgotten about our little financial situation?
Ah Got a winner
I think I got a winner
How about ladies rubber riding boots
- 2999 - Perfect!
- Did you say they were rubber? - How soon can you get them?
I can get those in a couple of days
All right! What about the riding jacket?
Uh... [Clears Throat]
Th-they start at 275
Oh, man
Secondhand coat?
- Sounds great - Oh, yeah!
- Good choice - Yeah
Hey there, Fireball
Lunch is coming right up
- Checkers? - [Whinnying]
- [Groaning] - Checkers?
- What's the matter, boy? - [Groans]
Oh, my goodness
Dante!
Something's wrong with Checkers!
[Checkers Groaning]
- [Whinnies] - Easy, big boy
Easy
What's wrong with him, Dante?
Looks like a colic
Hand me that lead over there
I've got to get him up
- Easy Easy - [Whinnying]
Easy Easy
Go call the vet
- [Whinnying] - I gotta keep him moving
Go on The number's on the phone
Good boy Good
Well, thanks for coming out, Tom
- Wish I could do more - We tried to keep Checkers walking as long as possible
That was the right thing to do
But Checkers doesn't want to walk anymore right now
Only thing you can do is let him rest and try again a little later
Yeah
I don't want to paint a hopeless picture
but if that horse doesn't get back on his feet tonight
there's slim chance he'll make it through till morning
- I understand - I'm sorry
- I'll check in on you later Call me if there's any change - Will do
[Engine Starts]
Well
we're gonna let Checkers rest for a while
I talked to your mom She's bringing some supper over
Checkers has to get better, Dante
He just has to
Well, we're not gonna lose hope
That horse has got a strong spirit
Just like the little girl who rides him
[Gelsey] Sweetheart, you're not eating
I can't
Just take a couple bites
May I go see Checkers now?
May as well let her go
Sure
Thanks for bringing dinner, Mom
I'm so sorry
I know that this is a difficult time for both of you
For her
Hi there, Checkers
[Grunts]
Checkers, l... I know you're tired
and I know you don't feel like walking, but
can you please just try and get up now?
Y-Y-You don't even have to walk You could just...
You could just try and stand up
[Exhales]
Come on, Checkers l...
I know you can do it
If you could just try, please
[Sobbing] I love you so much
You're my best friend, and...
and I don't know what I'd ever do without you
Please don't give up
Please I will help you
If you could... you could just... just try, Checkers
Just try
[Sobbing Continues]
(music)[Wind Chime]
[Whinnies Weakly]
Checkers?
- Checkers - [Snorts]
That's it, boy Come on l-I know you can do it Please?
Come on, Checkers You can do this
Try moving your foot again That's it
Come on, Checkers l...
Lift your head up Come on! Come on, Checkers Come on!
- There you go, boy - [Whinnying]
Checkers
Come on, Checkers
Oh, yeah!
That's right! Come on!
Checkers! Oh, Checkers!
Dante! Mom!
Come see!
It's so good!
[Whinnies]
He did it!
Attaboy
That's incredible
Ah, you're looking strong
Let's see if he'll eat some warm bran
Wait a minute
Oh! He's hungry
- Well, that's a good sign - That's the best sign
That means in a few days he'll be good as new
Be the strongest horse in the competition
[Chuckles]
That taste good, Checkers?
Wow This is posh
Well, don't be intimidated by it It's just a barn like any other
Yeah Just fancier
Name, please
I got Moondance Alexander from Tumbleweed Stables
- And Checkers - [Chuckles] A-And Checkers
Okay, you can go on through
Huh Well...
Moondance, I want you to take Checkers into his stall
- Buck and I'll bring the tack - Okay Come on, boy
Good job
- [Girl #1] What's that pinto doing here? - [Girl #2] Who knows
[Snorts]
Mm-hmm Here we go
[Snorts]
- This is nice, huh? - [Nickers]
It's like a four-star hotel
Ooh! With room service
Thank you!
Ohh Say it isn't so
Hey, Checkers, don't get too chummy with this one
He's the defending champion
[Dante] Right there [Grunts]
- Good job - Hey!
What do you got in there? Gold bullion?
- Well, we have to be prepared - Yeah
Why don't you go sign in, get your number
- We'll get Checkers ready - Okay Thank you
- Hey, Mom! - Hey!
Oh, this is so exciting!
Isn't it amazing?
- Hi, Mr. Wilson - Hi
- Hi, josh - Hey
- We're really looking forward to watching you ride today - Oh, thank you
[PA Announcer] The warm-up ring is now available for the Hunter division
Well, that's me I gotta go
- Okay Don't forget your jacket - Oh That's right
- Good luck - Uh, hey, Moondance
I just wanted to, uh, wish you good luck
Thanks
l-I'll see you later
Great You haven't painted his hooves yet?
Can you please do it now?
Hi!
Moondance?
You're showing today?
Yeah l-I took your advice and I entered my pinto
Really!
That's amazing
You'd better get ready They just called our division
l-I'll be ready
- Checkers? - [Nickers]
Oh, my goodness!
You look so handsome!
You guys are awesome
Well, Team Tumbleweed at your service
- Better get your boots on - Okay
- Hey - Hey
- Is that Moondance? - Can you believe it?
- [Scoffs] - Oh, my gosh
- Please tell me she isn't putting on rubber boots right now - No way
- She is! - [Fiona Laughs]
I can't believe she's gonna show in those
[Fiona] Who cares?
It'll just make us look better
Don't let them get to you
You know why they're putting you down, don't you?
- Why? - 'Cause they're not sure of themselves
- Get Checkers warmed up - Yes, sir
I'm gonna go get myself a good seat
Good luck, darlin' Knock 'em dead
We're sure gonna try
Okay
Let Checkers get used to his surroundings
Then once he settles in, take him over to that jump a couple of times
- All right - Okay
- Hey! - Slower horses stay on the outside
[Whinnies]
Dante, surprised to see you here
Not as surprised as I am
[Both Laughing]
- That has got to be your pinto - Yep
Moondance
You have got to settle down, girl
- Right - That turn was way too sharp
Checkers can feel your energy, so if you're focused, he'll be focused
- Okay - Remember
You're a team
Right We're a team
- Good Try it again - Okay
That's an unusual choice for a hunter
Uh, any room over there?
Oh, yeah Right here
- [Chuckles] Yeah There we go - There you go
- Good to see you, Buck - You too
- Where'd you get that hot dog? - I got it over there
[Both Laughing]
What... Did I miss somethin'?
I'll tell you later
- Hey, guys Hi - Hey
This should be a riot Check out the guy in the monkey suit
Freddie, if you're just gonna bash everyone, sit somewhere else
- Chill, dude - I'm serious
Fine I'll go bash where I'm wanted
Good move
- Hey, hot stuff - Hey Josh is being moody again
- Oh, forget him - Yeah
[Chattering]
Ladies and gentlemen, welcome to the 10th Annual Bow River Classic
- [Cheering, Applause] - Joining us today from REV Sports TV
our friends Joe Cipriano and Mike Weir
[Cipriano] Well, thank you, Kirk
It's starting I'm so nervous
She's gonna do great
I love this I really love this [Laughs]
We're starting with Junior Hunters
Our first entry, from Sonata Farms, number 230
Shannon McGinnis riding Uptown Girl
[Cipriano] Mike, Shannon is coming off a big win in Indio
in the modified Hunter Classic
[Weir] I really think this horse suits her style
[Cipriano] They are moving nice and quiet down this line Very good
Aspen should be so much fun!
Megan, you're next
[Cipriano] Now approaching the brown oxer
[Weir] She took off a little close
[Cipriano] She's gonna have to pick up the pace
- Good luck with your lead changes - Thanks for reminding me
[Giggles]
[Cipriano] Now coming up to the final jump
Oh, that's a very solid ride for Miss McGinnis!
- [Applause] - [Announcer] Next entry, from Devonshire Farms
number 246, Megan Montgomery riding Avalon
[Weir] This is a new horse for Megan
[Cipriano] That's right He's a terrific Irish thoroughbred
Ooh, good takeoff there
This horse could give her the edge she needs with the judges
Get off the phone, Fiona
Hey, I gotta go
I'll call you later Bye
- [Beep] - Do you wanna go over the course one more time?
[Sighs] Please I can do this blindfolded
[Cipriano] So far, this is a stylish presentation
- I am very impressed - Okay
All right, you see this combination here?
- Mm-hmm - That's gonna be tight
You want to be nice and quiet going into it
- Okay Nice and quiet - Yeah
- [Applause] - [Weir] Great ride for Megan Montgomery!
- Yeah! - Whoo!
[Cipriano] She might have had a slight bobble in her last lead change
But she was in that far corner... I'm not so sure the judges even saw it
[Weir] If that's the case, it would put her in the running for the top five
Checkers, no, no You cannot eat the flowers
[Cipriano] We're watching Ted Michaels now
He's an impressive competitor, always in ribbons
- Nice ride - I missed my lead change
- Well, besides that - Don't worry, Megan It was just a hop
Judges probably didn't even notice
[Cipriano] Trained by his father, James Michaels
who is a former Olympic champion, of course
That takeoff was a little rushed there
The one thing you can count on from Ted is that he always remains cool and confident
- Remember, you're the champion - I know
[Applause]
Next entry, from Devonshire Farms
and last year's Bow River Junior Hunter Champion
number 251, Fiona Hughes, riding Monte Carlo
- Yes! - Yea! Whoo!
[Cipriano] Everyone has their eyes on this young lady
She is the one to beat
[Weir] Let's not count out Shannon McGinnis or Megan Montgomery
They both had excellent rides today
Monte Carlo is a six-year-old Hanoverian gelding with a championship pedigree
[Cipriano] So far she is riding this course perfectly
Mike, you were asking me what the judges are looking for Well, this is it
Exquisite horse, superb equitation
Perfectly turned out Rider elegant... coat, custom boots
I mean, it's the whole package
They are flawless
[Weir] Coming up to the last line
[Cipriano] She'll need to slow it down to make this tight combination
And what a performance by Fiona Hughes!
[Weir] Absolutely beautiful Joe, do you think it was enough to win it?
- [Cipriano] You never can tell which way the judges will go - You rock! You rock!
[Cipriano] But that was outstanding!
- That was a lovely ride - Yeah, it's a fancy horse
[Cipriano] And now we're down to our last competitor
- That was perfect - What did you expect?
That was a really good ride
- Oh, thanks - This is a new name on the circuit, Mike
I don't know too much about her or her horse, for that matter
Okay, take a nice, deep breath
[Cipriano] I'll update you as soon as we have more information
You might want to exhale
- [Exhales] - [Chuckles]
All right Got the course visualized?
Yes
Okay You're ready
Thank you, Dante
Go get 'em
[PA Announcer] Our last entry, from Tumbleweed Stables, number 224...
- There she is - There she is
Moondance Alexander riding Checkers
- All right, Moondance! - All right!
This ought to be interesting
- Hey, Moondance, the rodeo was last week! - [Laughing]
[Weir]Joe, have you ever seen a pinto entered in this division?
[Cipriano] Not in a major classic like this one
[Freddie] Hey, why don't you get a real horse!
[Exhales]
Okay, Checkers We can do this
[Nickers]
Oh! Oh, she made it! She made it!
- Breathe It's only the first jump - Yeah!
[Weir] He seems to be moving well so far
[Cipriano] He certainly does Pintos usually have a much shorter stride than this horse
Look at that!
[Weir] Moondance is trained by Dante Longpre
[Cipriano] Now, there's a name we haven't heard in quite a while
Dante fell out of the scene after one of his young riders crashed through a jump
and was seriously injured
- It wasn't certainly anything Dante could have prevented - [Weir] Nice to see him back
[Cipriano] Wow! This little horse can really jump!
I can't help wonder what the judges are thinking right now
[Weir] And Moondance seems very relaxed for her first time in a major competition
Dante is known for his strict conditioning of his riders We're seeing the result today
Easy
[Weir] She's approaching the single oxer
I can't watch!
[Cipriano] It's been giving riders trouble all day
- [Cipriano] It's no trouble for Moondance - Yes!
- Did she make it? - Keep your eyes open You're gonna miss the whole thing
[Weir] The most challenging part of the course is still ahead
[Cipriano] Beautiful lead change right there
Quiet him down, Moondance
[Cipriano] She needs to down-shift around this corner
- Easy, boy - She's heading in way too fast
They're gonna crash and burn on this combination
[Cipriano] This is where experience really comes into play
which is something this young lady just doesn't have yet
Come on Come on
[Cipriano] This is it The final combination
But can Moondance maintain her focus and composure over these last two jumps?
[Weir] This little horse might have a big enough heart to take her all the way!
[Cipriano] If they can just keep this last stride into the final oxer
- [Cipriano] Unbelievable! They've done it! - [Applause]
- What an amazing event this has turned out to be! - Yes!
It's this kind of talent that makes this sport so exciting and so unpredictable
Way to go!
Yeah! She made it! How was it? Was it all right?
It sure was
I can't believe she made it through with no mistakes
There's still no way she can win Not on that horse
[Cipirano] These two underdogs, Mike, have come out of nowhere
Checkers, you were brilliant
[Whinnies]
A good boy Let's go
- Oh - [Laughing]
I am very, very proud of you
Thank you Wasn't Checkers amazing?
You both were Good job, buddy
But was that good?
- It was great - Oh, yea!
- [Laughing] - Checkers! We got a "great!"
Thank you, Dante
Now what's happening?
Well, now we have to wait for the results
[Cipriano] There seems to be a heated conversation going on at the judges' table
- It's a pinto - It's a horse
- When was the last time we had a pinto in this... - What seems to be the problem?
- We're having a disagreement about the black-and-white horse - What kind of disagreement?
- We don't know where he fits in - He doesn't
A pinto doesn't fit in the Winner's Circle of the junior Hunter Classic
- I disagree - You need to make a decision We've got to announce a winner
I'm not budging on this
[Cipriano] Moondance and Checkers might be forcing them to consider
a more diverse playing field than they're used to
[PA Announcer] While we're waiting for a decision from our judges
could we have the Junior Hunter division trot into the ring, please?
- [Applause] - Well, win or lose, you gave 'em something to think about
All right
[Applause Continues]
- [Shouting, Cheering] - All right, Moondance!
[Girl] Let's go, Megan!
[Freddie Shouting, Indistinct]
And now for the results of the junior Hunter Bow River Classic
Sixth place goes to Jill Blake riding Hot Tamale
Fifth place goes to Katie Harrison riding Tango Dancer
- 4th place goes to Olivia Kay riding Sophie's Trophy - Congratulations
Third place goes to Ted Michaels riding Alexandra
Congratulations Another good ride
Second place goes to Shannon McGinnis riding Uptown Girl
- Congratulations - Thank you very much
And for first place
we have a tie
Our Bow River Junior Hunter Classic champions are
- Fiona Hughes riding Monte Carlo... - Whoo!
[Applause, Cheering]
And Moondance Alexander
riding Checkers!
- We won? - [Together] What?
Yes!
Yes! Yes! Yes!
- Are you kidding me? - [Gasps]
We won, Checkers! We won! Oh, good job, boy!
- [Checkers Whinnies] - Oh! They won!
I'll be right back I will be right back
Congratulations once again Very good ride
- There we are - Thank you
Not a bad little horse you got there, Dante Not bad at all
Congratulations This was a very good victory for you and your horse
Thank you! But we did have a lot of help
We'd like a photograph in a moment
Oh, sure! Certainly!
Oh, good job, Checkers
[Judge] Let's put the blanket on the horse
Hey, um, Fiona, congratulations
- Thank you - Oh, you're welcome
I really like your horse
Oh! Thank you! Yeah, he's a pretty good boy
I've actually been looking for a new place to ride How is Tumbleweed Stables?
Well, it's nothing fancy, but you really get a lot of personalized attention
- Sounds great I'll have to check it out - Moondance!
Can you hold this for just one second? Thank you
[PA Announcer] Let's give a hand to our Junior Hunter Classic champion Fiona Hughes!
Well, that was the most fantastic and hair-raising experience of my life
- You were amazing! - Thank you!
- Looks like you're going to the winner's banquet - You mean we're going
Moondance! They're ready for your photo!
I gotta run
Hey, Mom, um, do you wanna invite Ben to come with us?
Really?
Yeah, I mean, I was thinking
Ben may be different, but he still deserves a chance
What about Josh? Is he invited too?
Yeah, sure Why not?
[Whinnies]
[PA Announcer] Ladies and gentlemen
- let's hear it for our Bow River Junior Hunter Classic champion - [Applause]
Moondance Alexander and Checkers!
[Applause, Cheering]
[Whinnies]
Thanks, Daddy
Oh, and don't worry about me and Mom
We're gonna be all right
- Welcome - Thank you
How do you do?
- Let's have a look at that pony - [Giggles]
[Checkers Whinnies]
[Woman] (music)I choose you
(music)From the billions and billions
(music)I will be changed from the moment I do
(music) Yeah, I'll choose you
(music) When the clouds part
(music)A thousand guitars start
(music)I choose you
(music) Choose me too
[Woman] (music) You were there for me
(music)Someone kind and gentle
(music)But like stars in the night
(music) You slipped away
(music)I wish you could be
(music) With me on this journey
(music)All my fears inside
(music) Would fade away
(music)lf I could find
(music)A place of mine
(music)For memories
(music)And secret dreams
(music)And hopes that never die
(music)lf I could see
(music)My destiny
(music)Be my guide
(music)And I won't hide
(music)From life's uncertainties
(music) Time moves on
(music)I hold on
(music) Try to wait patiently
(music)Must be strong
(music) What could be in store
(music)For me
(music) Ohh-ohh
(music)lf I could find
(music)A place of mine
(music)For memories
(music)And secret dreams
(music)And hopes that never die
(music) Ohh-ohh-ohh
(music)lf I could see
(music)My destiny
(music)Be my guide
(music)And I won't hide
(music)From life's uncertainties
(music)lf I could
(music) Oh, if I could
(music)lf I could
{{{the end}}}