🎬☀️ New This Labor Day Weekend: "Crossroad Springs," 'The Wedding Arrangement,' & 'Catch of the Day' -- Which One Will You Catch First? 🐟

( click to enlarge image ) 

Happy Labor Day Weekend, Friends!

I hope you’re able to slow down a little on this extended weekend, soak up some rest, and enjoy a bit of well-deserved downtime.

I'm planning to do a little extra yard work while the weather is still nice and warm, and share some time with my family out in the sunshine, and later in the cool evenings we'll likely gather around the fire pit.

If your weekend’s looking busy, don’t forget to set your DVR for the brand-new series premiere on Great American Family, “Crossroad Springs”! The first episode airs Saturday night. (I streamed it early on PureFlix - see my review below!). This heartfelt show invites us right into the heart of ranch life... full of warmth, family drama, and all the ups and downs that come with it.

And if you’re in the mood for something romantic, Great American Family also premieres a lighthearted movie titled 'The Wedding Arrangement'! (See my review for this below, too!)

The Hallmark Channel wraps up their *Summer Nights* with 'Catch of the Day,' a seaside romance that may be the perfect last splash of the season! 

I hope you’ll enjoy some of these heartwarming stories this weekend. If you do, I’d love to hear which ones you liked most, so please share your thoughts in the comments below!


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Saturday, August 30, 2025:

Catch of the Day

Storyline: On the eve of becoming a NY executive chef, Sophie returns home to help her family's flailing restaurant and runs into Cam, an old crush who makes her question everything.

Catch of the Day

Premieres Saturday, August 30, 2025

at 8pm/7c. on the Hallmark Channel

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Saturday, August 30, 2025:

Crossroad Springs

(Episode 1)

When Pastor James returns to Crossroad Springs, the Hamiltons rediscover the ties that bind through changing seasons, quiet reckonings, and the grace of starting over.

Crossroad Springs

(Episode 1)

Premieres Saturday, August 30, 2025

at 8pm/7c. on Great American Family

Episode 1 - Review:

“Crossroad Springs” is such a heartwarming look at life on a family ranch. You really feel the love, hard work, and sense of community. It was comforting to watch the characters face challenges and lean on each other. Episode one does a wonderful job of introducing us to the Hamilton family, those in their community, and their neighbor/rival, Daniel Newman. (By the way, Jesse Hutch plays the character very well!) I loved all of the little touches of faith, and I’m looking forward to the next episode! -Net


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Saturday, August 30, 2025:

The Wedding Arrangement

Storyline: When botanist Violet needs help with a wedding floral arrangement, nature photographer Jack comes to save the day as they bond over a mythical plant.

The Wedding Arrangement

Premieres Saturday, August 30, 2025

at 9pm/8c. on Great American Family

*Click Here* to see my movie review for this film. It’s family-friendly overall, though there are just a couple of little notes you may want to keep in mind.


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Labor Day Weekend Highlights:

Great American Family - Along with the new premieres, "Crossroad Springs" and 'The Wedding Arrangement' mentioned above, see rom-com movie classics throughout Saturday, Sunday, and Monday, including 'Swing into Romance,' 'A Thread to Your Heart,' and more.

Hallmark Channel - Along with the new premiere, 'Catch of the Day,' see rom-com movie classics throughout Saturday and Sunday... and something extra special on Monday... see details below!

Hallmark Mystery - Catch a marathon of 5 'Murder, She Baked' movies on Saturday and 7 'Hannah Swensen Mysteries' on Sunday.

Hallmark Family - Enjoy a marathon of four 'Signed, Sealed, Delivered' films on Sunday.

UPtv - Classic rom-com movies return to UPtv on Sunday!


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It's *Lacey Chabert Day* on the Hallmark Channel this Labor Day!

See the first season of her reality show, "Celebrations with Lacey Chabert," along with classic rom-coms/dramas!

NOTE: Season 2 of "Celebrations with Lacey Chabert" premieres Monday, September 15th!

Hallmark Channel's Labor Day Schedule -

Monday, September 1, 2025:

(Eastern Standard Time)

Moonlight in Vermont - 6am
The Color of Rain - 8am
All of My Heart: The Wedding - 10am
Celebrations with Lacey Chabert (season 1) - 12pm to 10pm
Sweet Carolina - 10pm


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Well, what a fun mix this weekend brings…an ocean-side romance in ‘Catch of the Day,’ the start of a heartfelt new country journey with “Crossroad Springs,” and the blooming love story with ‘The Wedding Arrangement.’

I hope you enjoy these uplifting stories this weekend, and if you’d like, please share your thoughts or reviews in the comments below…I always love hearing from you!

May your weekend be filled with little reminders of God’s love in the everyday moments.

Blessings to you all,

Net

☀️ SHINING HIS LIGHT: ☀️

The premiere of “Crossroad Springs” brought these scriptures to my mind; they remind us that with family, friends, and God at the center, even the toughest days can feel lighter....

“Commit your work to the Lord, 

and your plans will be established.”

Proverbs 16:3

“Two are better than one…

for if they fall, one will lift up his fellow.”

Ecclesiastes 4:9-10

♫ Laura Osnes and GENTRI's New Enchanting Music Video - "All I Ask of You"

Laura Osnes & GENTRI team up for a breathtaking remake of the powerful song, "All I Ask of You"!

If you’re looking for something beautiful to listen to, this will surely make your day!

Broadway star (and Hallmark/Great American Family favorite!) Laura Osnes has joined voices with the powerhouse musical trio GENTRI for a stunning new music video "All I Ask of You" from "The Phantom of the Opera," and it’s every bit as magical as you’d imagine! ✨

Laura’s sweet, enchanting voice pairs perfectly with GENTRI’s soaring harmonies, creating a version of this classic that feels both timeless and brand new. It’s elegant, heartfelt, and just one of those performances you can’t help but watch (and listen to) on repeat! I've embedded the video below!

For weeks, Laura and GENTRI have been giving us little sneak peeks from behind the scenes of this gorgeous music video, and I’m so excited to finally see it come together. Now that it’s out officially, I’m thrilled to share it with all of you!

If you love music that makes your heart happy, this is one video you’ll want to check out. Trust me, you’ll be swept away!!!

Enjoy this beautiful video here...

"All I Ask of You" feat. Laura Osnes | GENTRI




Wasn’t that just spectacular? Truly a beautiful performance that stays with you long after the last note.♫

I’ve been hoping we might see Laura Osnes and Casey Elliott (from GENTRI and Great American Family movies) star in a musical romantic-comedy together. While this isn’t quite that, watching them bring so much heart and beauty to this performance gives me renewed hope of that potentially happening some day!

Blessings to you all,

Net

Christmas Movie News: 'A Christmas Angel Match' Starring Meghan Ory and Benjamin Ayres

images via: Hallmark Media

The Entertainment website People has officially announced that Meghan Ory and Benjamin Ayres are teaming up for Hallmark Channel's A Christmas Angel Match! (And There Are Puppies!)

According to their article, Meghan Ory ("Chesapeake Shores") not only will star in the film, but she also wrote it!

Meghan Ory and Benjamin Ayres will play Christmas angels Monica and Michael, who are tasked with bringing soulmates together.

image via: Meghan Ory Instagram

Hallmark Media also revealed in their plot that these angels typically work alone; however, "when the Christmas Connection Department faces the threat of downsizing, Monica and Michael are unexpectedly paired to ensure Daisy and Patrick fall in love before Christmas. The partnership isn’t without its challenges: Monica is a by-the-book traditionalist who follows every heavenly rule, while Michael embraces spontaneity and delights in earthly joys like hot chocolate, snowball fights, and holiday dancing. Their clashing styles — and the undeniable spark growing between them — complicate their mission. As Christmas Eve draws near, Monica and Michael worry their differences will keep them from completing their mission in time. But just when it seems all hope is lost, a surprising turn of events changes everything — leading to a Christmas connection no one saw coming."

Look for A Christmas Angel Match to debut during Hallmark Channel's 16th annual Countdown to Christmas.

Stay tuned for more 

Christmas movie news!

Net🎄

"Crossroad Springs" Cast Officially Announces More Episodes & Shares Beautiful Music

Before the Facebook Live Event on Tuesday night, three members of the "Crossroad Springs" cast, Jonathan Stoddard, Brittany Underwood, and Emily Alatalo, officially announced that 4 more episodes are coming for season 1... so there will be 10 episodes in all! (We can expect to see the four additional episodes in the new year.)

Here's the announcement...

Great American Media CEO Bill Abbott also mentioned during the Facebook Live something about Season 2; however, that is yet to be officially announced, but it sounds VERY promising!!!

If you haven't seen the "Crossroad Springs" Facebook Live, yet, then you're in for a special treat! There are many wonderful clips shown of the series, and several excellent songs, too, at 55 minutes in, 1:41 hour/minutes, and then 1:50 hour/minutes! 

Plus, there's also something very sweet at the end. I've embedded the video below... so enjoy!

When and Where to Watch "Crossroad Springs":

🎬 Stream Thursday, August 28th on Pure Flix

📺 Premieres Saturday, August 30th at 8/7c on Great American Family & GFam+

Blessings to y'all,

Net

Great American Family Christmas Movie Photos + Reminder: “Crossroad Springs” Live on Facebook TONIGHT

( photo credit: Alicia Josipovic / Great American Media )

From the new series "Crossroad Springs" to New Christmas Movies... lots of exciting things are happening at Great American Family!

The image above is from a photoshoot for the new Great American Family movie 'Christmas in Midnight Clear' starring Alicia Josipovic and Jon McLaren.

( photo credit: Great American Media )

This lovely photo taken inside a church is 'A Belle Christmas' starring Julia Reilly, Ash Tsai, Marshall Williams.

Both of these Christmas movies will premiere during Great American Christmas 2025!

Just wanted to add a quick reminder that you can catch the "Crossroad Springs" Facebook Live Event *TONIGHT* Tuesday, August 26th at 8/7c on Great American Family's Facebook Page!

Join these cast members: Jonathan Stoddard, Brittany Underwood, Kate Drummond, Emily Alatalo, Jon McLaren, Erin Agostino, and Jillian Cardarelli, along with Great American Media CEO Bill Abbott and host, Cameron Mathison.

It should be a wonderful time... getting exclusive information from the cast and perhaps, some clips of the show and of course, behind the scenes details!

RSVP at https://bit.ly/4fKboeJ

I hope to see many of you there!

Net

New TV Series "The Sunshine Murders" Coming to UPtv!

A new mystery series, with 10 episodes, is coming to UPtv, beginning Thursday, September 4th. On the premiere night, UPtv will show 2 episodes. 

See the details for the new sister sleuthing series, "The Sunshine Murders," below...

The Sunshine Murders

Starring: Dora Chrysikou, Emily Corcoran, Peter Andre, Marina Sirtis, Christopher Sciueref, Chloe Stannage, Constantine Andronikou and Whare Mihinui

The series also stars British pop star Peter Andre

Details via UPtv:

The Sunshine Murders is a new original series about an unlikely crime-fighting duo made up of two very different sisters. Shirley, a farmer from New Zealand and in search of her father, travels to Athens and meets her half-sister & detective, Helen. Shirley soon starts to help Helen solve crimes with her ‘bush’ wisdom and wit while they try to find their missing father.

Promo Clip via UPtv:




Are you game for giving this new mystery a try? Please share in the comments below.

Happy Sleuthing!

Net

🎄✨ Happy 4 Months ’til Christmas Day!!! ✨🎄 (See Which Christmas Movie I Chose To Mark This Day & Share Your Pick!)

Today is August 25th, which means...

🎄✨ Happy 4 Months ’til Christmas Day!!! ✨🎄

It’s time to *Mark the 25th* as part of our monthly Countdown to Christmas celebration!

Not only are we *4 MONTHS away from CHRISTMAS DAY*... but the Christmas movie season is just *2 months away*... beginning in late October! 🎅📺 Can you feel the excitement building, too, as each day goes by!?!?!

Here at *It’s a Wonderful Movie*, we love celebrating the 25th of each month with something festive, whether it’s a Christmas movie, a classic holiday cartoon, or anything that brings a little Christmas cheer into our day. It’s such a fun way to keep that joyful spirit alive all year long.

If you’re watching something Christmassy today (or sometime this week), please share in the comments below your pick... I always love hearing your movie choices!

🎥 My Christmas movie pick is… "Hearts of Christmas," starring Emilie Ullerup and Kristoffer Polaha. It’s such a heartwarming story about service, the gift of life, and giving to those in need.

Hearts of Christmas - image: Hallmark Media

Hearts of Christmas - image: Hallmark Media

And in case you haven't heard... Kristoffer Polaha is currently filming his brand-new Hallmark Christmas movie, "A Grand Ole Opry Christmas," alongside Nikki DeLoach and Sharon Lawrence! How wonderful is that? Sharon Lawrence, of course, also co-starred with Kristoffer in "Hearts of Christmas," so it’s a special reunion.

Plus, we know Country Singer Brad Paisley will also be in "A Grand Ole Opry Christmas," and it was revealed on the Today Show just this morning that these Country Music stars will also make a cameo appearance: Megan Moroney, Bill Anderson, Jamey Johnson, Rhett Atkins, Dailey & Vincet, Drew Baldridge, Maggie Baugh, Suzy Bogguss, Mickey Guyton, Riders in the Sky, Tigirlily Gold, Pam Tillis, and more!

A Grand Ole Opry Christmas on set - image: Kristoffer Polaha

Meanwhile, Kristoffer Polaha's "Hearts of Christmas" co-star, Emilie Ullerup, has an all-new (non-holiday) movie premiering this Saturday on the Hallmark Channel, titled "Catch of the Day," with Michael Rady! It looks like such a sweet and fun story, definitely one to add to our weekend watchlist!

Catch of the Day - image: Hallmark Media

And since we’re talking about Michael Rady, I’m tempted to sneak in one of his Christmas movies this week, one of my all-time favorites, in honor of his upcoming premiere this weekend. Longtime followers here at It's a Wonderful Movie might already know which one I mean… here’s a little hint: its title reflects one of the truest gifts of the season! Any guesses which one it is? 🎄

We have so much to look forward to in the weeks ahead! Shouldn't be too long now 'til we start hearing those full Christmas movie announcements from each channel... stay tuned!!!✨

Wishing you a day

that is truly…

Merry & Bright!🎄❤️

Net

🍨🍨 Sweet Summer Nights: "Double Scoop" and More To Savor

( images via: Hallmark Media - click to enlarge
edit via: itsawonderfulmovie.com )

Happy Weekend, Friends!

Are you ready for two scoops of romance?🍨🍨

This weekend is serving up the sweetest *Summer Nights* treat on the Hallmark Channel with the premiere of “Double Scoop,” starring Taylor Cole and Ryan McPartlin. This ice cream-inspired romance is sure to melt hearts!

Plus, what a treat to have Chonda Pierce (Roll With It), Elisa Donovan (Clueless), Jacklyn Collier (The Engagement Plot), and Patrick Muldoon (A Boyfriend for Christmas) also in the cast!

(By the way, in case you didn't know, Chonda Pierce is a Christian comedienne; I've seen her performance in person and she is fabulous!!! She's hilarious and so down-to-earth. Her testimony and joy for Jesus truly touched my heart! I can't wait to see her role in “Double Scoop”!)

And for your second scoop of romance this weekend... it’s time to say “cheese” with the Great American Family network premiere of “As Gouda As It Gets”!

It’s a double helping of delicious-themed fun movies!

See all of the details below...


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Saturday, August 23rd, 2025:

Double Scoop

Storyline: Nora discovers the best ice cream and hopes to land them as a client. Her sweet dreams hit a snag when her former colleague James has the same idea. Old sparks begin to melt the frosty tension.

Double Scoop

Premieres Saturday, August 23rd, 2025

at 8pm/7c. on the Hallmark Channel

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Saturday, August 23rd, 2025:

As Gouda as it Gets

Storyline: Brie Belanger is the maître fromager and owner of Brie’s Cheese, a cute artisan cheese shop located in picturesque Vermont. Looking to boost her business presence and sales, the town’s annual Cheese Festival arrives just in time with a $50,000 first-place prize. Up against her biggest competitor, Brie’s vintage smoked gouda is considered a frontrunner-so much so that Jacob Wolfe, a former chef and influential cheese blogger, approaches about profiling her delectable creation, leading their friendship to take a turn for romance. Complications arise when Matt Lambert, the handsome and charismatic new CEO of Lambert Farms (and Brie’s largest competitor) starts to show his interest in acquiring her shop. Racing against the clock and a disastrous power failure, Brie and Jacob must recreate a prize-worthy entry if she has any hope of keeping her shop and potentially winning more than she initially hoped for.

As Gouda as it Gets

Premieres Saturday, August 23rd, 2025

at 9pm/8c. on Great American Family

Movie Review:

🎬 "I'm glad that I recorded it. Happily, what was missing was the bickering as in Christmas on the Menu. That was nice to see and with no back story to overcome." ~Namegirl

🎬 I saw "As Gouda as it Gets" when it first premiered on BYU in 2021. I remember it being lighthearted and family-friendly, and since it was Kim Shaw and Clayton James' second movie together, they had good chemistry. ~Net

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Weekend thoughts...

For those of you on the East Coast, my heart and prayers are with you as you’ve endured the effects of Hurricane Erin. While I am grateful to hear this storm was not as severe as some in the past, I know it still brought uncertainty, flooding, and damage. May the Lord continue to watch over you and provide safety.

I'm wishing everyone a peaceful, joyful weekend. May the new movies bring comfort to you all, and perhaps you can also enjoy a simple treat, like a scoop of ice cream, to make your movie night a little sweeter!!!🍨🍦

If you’d like to share your thoughts or a review after watching either movie, please feel free to share in the comments below... I always love hearing from you!

By the way, in case you missed it, you can see my take on As Gouda as it Gets and my sweet friend Namegirl shared a movie review - both posted above, under the movie's info.

And if you missed the premiere of Mystery Island: Play for Keeps last week on the Hallmark Channel, you can catch it's premiere Friday night, August 22nd on Hallmark Mystery at 8pm/7c. and another encore Sunday, August 24th at 6pm/5c.🔎🔎

Paula (who is also a great friend and contributor here at It's a Wonderful Movie) recently shared this review with us... “Mystery Island Play for Keeps” - surprisingly I really enjoyed it! The others were not bad, they just fell flat for me, like I kinda got lost and didn’t pay as much attention as I normally do…. **spoiler alert*** This one however kept my attention with the mystery cheating suspicions and how she seemed to have a spark with her ex fiancé. I still didn’t guess the killer at the end though Lol" ~Paula

Happy Movie-Watching, Everyone!

Blessings to you all,

Net

☀SHINING HIS LIGHT:☀

“Taste and see that the Lord is good; 

blessed is the one 

who takes refuge in him.”

– Psalm 34:8

"Crossroad Springs" Facebook Live Event

Great American Media invites their followers to "Join the cast, the conversation, and the countdown — Don't miss the Crossroad Springs Facebook Live Event next Tuesday, August 26 at 8/7c for an exclusive Crossroad Springs event you won’t want to miss! 🎥"

RSVP at https://bit.ly/4fKboeJ

Sponsored by HarperCollins Christian Publishing


As you can see in the image above, most of the cast of Crossroad Springs will be joining this Facebook Live Event, including Jonathan Stoddard, Brittany Underwood, Kate Drummond, Emily Alatalo, Jon McLaren, and Erin Agostino, along with Great American Media CEO Bill Abbott and host, Cameron Mathison.

Be sure to tune into this chat a week from today - Tuesday, August 26th!

Blessings on your day,

Net

In Case You Missed It: "Ainsley McGregor" Premiere Date Has Been Announced

image: Great American Media

Hey, Sleuthers...

I’ve shared this premiere date before, but in case you missed it, I wanted to make sure everyone saw the latest, official word from Great American Media.

The next "Ainsley McGregor" mystery "A Case for the Yarn Maker," starring Candace Cameron Bure, is on the way soon to Great American Family, and here’s the press release with all of the details...


PRESS RELEASE:

CANDACE CAMERON BURE

STARS IN SECOND INSTALLMENT OF

‘THE AINSLEY MCGREGOR MYSTERIES,’

A CASE FOR THE YARN MAKER

GREAT AMERICAN FAMILY

ORIGINAL MOVIE

PREMIERE, OCTOBER 4

NEW YORK, NY – August 18, 2025 – Great American Media, America’s top destination for faith and family programming, announced the second installment of the company’s first mystery movie franchise, “The Ainsley McGregor Mysteries”: A Case for the Yarn Maker, starring Candace Cameron Bure (Aurora Teagarden Mysteries, My Christmas Hero) and Aaron Ashmore (“Ginny & Georgia”) have its linear cable premiere on Great American Family, Saturday, October 4 (8 p.m. ET). The Ainsley McGregor Mysteries: A Case for the Yarn Maker is adapted from bestselling novelist Candace Havens’ novel.

In The Ainsley McGregor Mysteries: A Case for the Yarn Maker, Ainsley McGregor (Bure) a former Chicago criminologist, has moved back to her hometown of Sweet River, Texas, to teach criminology at the local university while also being the owner/operator of Bless Your Arts, a shop for community artists. Bless Your Arts is honoring a true Yarn Goddess, heiress of Real Wool, Ellie Mitchum who arrives with a cold demeanor before turning up cold, as in dead. At stake in the mystery is the future of Ellie’s Fortune 500 company and her feuding family angling for control. As always, Ainsley relies on her brother, Sheriff Ryan, her boyfriend, fireman Jake (Ashmore), and the eccentric band of sleuthers who masquerade as a Book Club to solve the crime. Whatever the mystery, Ainsley McGregor is always on the case.

The Ainsley McGregor Mysteries: A Case for the Yarn Maker is a Syrup Studios production in association with Candy Rock Entertainment. Costa Vassos serves as Producer and Martin Wood directs a screenplay written by Robin Dunne and based on the Candace Havens book of the same name. Executive producers include Candace Cameron Bure, Ford Englerth, Jeffery Brooks, Eric Jarboe, Holly A. Hines, Gerald Webb, Martin Wood, Jim Head, and Trevor McWhinney. Supervising producers include Catherine Kretz and Michael Shepard with Jonathan Shore and Doran S. Chandler serving as Associate producers.

ABOUT GREAT AMERICAN PURE FLIX

As the streaming service of Great American Media, Great American Pure Flix provides quality family-friendly programming that celebrates faith, family and country. With affordable flat-rate pricing, families can stream a prolific offering of unlimited movies and shows on demand. Great American Pure Flix features inspiring, uplifting and entertaining content the entire family can enjoy together, with new original and exclusive titles added every month. New customers can enjoy a 7-day free trial by visiting GreatAmericanPureFlix.com. Watch Great American Pure Flix https://signup.pureflix.com/signup/c3e/email

ABOUT CANDY ROCK ENTERTAINMENT:
Candy Rock Enterprises is a joint venture between award winning actress, producer and New York Times bestselling author Candace Cameron Bure and the full-service development and execution team behind Redrock Entertainment, Ford Englerth and Jeffery Brooks. Candy Rock’s Entertainment division develops, produces, and distributes television projects, lifestyle programming and feature length films with an emphasis on family-friendly content. Instagram: @CandyRock.Entertainment

ABOUT SYRUP STUDIOS:

Syrup Studios is a Canadian deficit-financing studio focused on exceptional films, series, and international co-productions for global audiences. Syrup’s highly tailored approach to developing, financing, producing, and distributing content through entrepreneurial business models brings each compelling story to life.

MEDIA CONTACT:

Pam Slay
Network Program Publicity
818.415.3784
pamslay@gacmedia.com
media@crosswindpr.com

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I hope many of you will enjoy this mystery when it premieres Saturday, October 4th, on Great American Family.

If you'd like a few extra details with no spoilers, you can check out my review of "Ainsley McGregor Mysteries: A Case for the Yarn Maker" here: https://itsawonderfulmovie.blogspot.com/2025/06/movie-review-ainsley-mcgregor-mysteries-case-for-the-yarn-maker-candace-cameron-bure.html.

Happy Sleuthing,

Net🔎

🌟 Your Cozy Weekend Summer Movie Guide: From the Heart to the Island & Mystery Buzz

Happy Mid-August Weekend, Friends!

Enjoy a cozy weekend of fresh stories and familiar faces!

Great American Family is premiering to their channel for the first time the heartfelt film, "A Thread to Your Heart," and I’ve shared my review below so you’ll know exactly why this love story is worth falling for.

Over on the Hallmark Channel, adventure awaits with a dash of mystery in "Mystery Island: Play for Keeps," the latest chapter in their tropical whodunit series.

Whether you’re in the mood for romance or a little intrigue, there’s something special waiting for everyone this weekend.

One more thing...

Are you dreaming of a little Christmas in August? Friday night’s line-up delivers several wonderful Christmas movie options, plus two fan-favorite actors whose on-screen chemistry has made them a beloved duo. And, at the end of this post, there’s a special note about a certain mystery series fans can’t stop talking about!!!

Keep scrolling for more details...


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Friday, August 15, 2025:

Christmas Movie Classics

Friday night's line-up includes two favorite stars: Jill Wagner and Kristoffer Polaha. Plus, I've included a special note at the end of this post on their mystery series, Mystery 101.

Friday, August 15, 2025:

Next Stop, Christmas ... Hallmark Channel ... 6pm
Destined 2: Christmas Once More ... Great American Family ... 6pm
A Biltmore Christmas ... Hallmark Channel ... 8pm
My Christmas Hero ... Great American Family ... 8pm
A Christmas Miracle for Daisy ... Great American Family ... 10pm
Destined 2: Christmas Once More ... Great American Family ... 12am
My Christmas Hero Great American Family ... 2am
A Christmas Miracle for Daisy ... Great American Family ... 4am


Want more Christmas... check out the Christmas TV Schedule.


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Saturday, August 16, 2025:

A Thread to Your Heart

Storyline: The owner of a quaint New Zealand yarn shop, Sophie Dale, gets her world flipped upside down after learning her top supplier of yarn, King Farms, is stopping production. Much to her surprise, the charming yet stuck-in-his-ways Samuel King has traveled all the way from New York to audit the business model of the farm. Desperate to keep her shop going, Sophie convinces Samuel to give her two weeks to learn the ropes of yarn spinning and raise enough money to buy the mill herself. With Samuel’s help, Sophie comes up with a fundraising plan to host a “knit-off” and auction at the local makers market. However, when the two weeks come to an end Sophie finds herself at the crossroads of business and romance. Could she have misinterpreted Samuels growing romantic interest in her as just business all along?

Movie Review:

🎬 The setting of this story is in New Zealand - and the countryside there is absolutely beautiful. Breathtaking! The owner of the local yarn shop, Sophie, is quite likeable; she's an American who inherited the shop from her late Grandmother. Sophie brings many people of the town together to knit and enjoy time sharing, along with her best friend, Rose, who is a lot of fun. Everything seems tranquil for Sophie, until she knits a sweater for her boyfriend, Chris. Everyone in the knitting group teases that "it's the curse of the knitted sweater" and they predict in a joking way that she and Chris will surely break up. They actually do, but Sophie has more important things to worry about - she must save the local mill where she gets her yarn and convince the owner's handsome son, Samuel King, who is visiting from New York, to sell it to her before he leaves. The lambs in the movie are all sooo adorable - you'll instantly fall in love with them. At times, the movie can be a bit predictable and cheesy, but it's still a sweet family friendly story, and I personally enjoyed watching it. Even the knitted sweater gets redemption in the end. If you know someone who likes knitting, then this is most definitely THE MOVIE for them. ~Net

A Thread to Your Heart

Premieres Saturday, August 16, 2025

at 9pm/8c. on Great American Family

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Sunday, August 17, 2025:

Mystery Island: Play for Keeps

Storyline: Mystery Island hosts a corporate retreat with a guest being Emilia's ex-fiancé. Old feelings become complicated, tensions run high, and allegations arise when a guest is found dead.

Mystery Island: Play for Keeps

Premieres Sunday, August 17, 2025

at 9pm/8c. on the Hallmark Channel

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And now for the mystery news...

Throughout this week, the Hallmark Mystery channel has been airing mini-marathons of the Mystery 101 series, starring Jill Wagner and Kristoffer Polaha, which isn't that unusual. However, on social media, it has become standard for Hallmark to only show pictures of Kristoffer when promoting the series, and never any promos with Jill. Well, that changed yesterday, and fans definitely noticed.


Before we get to that, let's take a step back - for a minute.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Hallmark Mystery (@hallmarkmystery)

As the series ran throughout the week, fans took to social media once again with messages like:

⬤ Bring this back!! We need closure! 👏 - sammyjones57

⬤ I miss these movies so much😭 can‘t understand why they canceled them… - julssss95

⬤ Y’all left us on a real cliffhanger. I fear I’ll never get over it - omarlieee

⬤ Looooove this series. Bring it baaaaaaaaack. 😭 - bendieshome


You get the picture. Comments like this continued on and on for several days... all under pictures of Kristoffer Polaha. In one picture (seen above) he is running after a suspect and looking quite dashing and in the other pic, he is simply carrying a file of papers under his arm while investigating one of the cases.

So, what happened yesterday, you might ask??? Well, Hallmark Mystery posted to their socials an actual video promo of one of the previous Mystery 101 movies, and yes, the video showed Jill Wagner!!!! And, as I said, fans, including myself, noticed right away. One fan wrote, "You actually showed Jill? Wow!"

And not only did fans notice, but Kristoffer Polaha noticed, too!!!

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Hallmark Mystery (@hallmarkmystery)

Here's what Kristoffer wrote under the post:

⬤ polahaha: Looks like Amy is back in the case with Travis…

How funny would it be if after all this time we finally got some closure?


Here are some of the random responses:

⬤ please!!!!! You two are my favorites! ❤️❤️ - joynoelle

⬤ You're killing me, Smalls! But yes, please!! - bendieshome

⬤ DON'T TOY WITH ME, KRISTOFFER! (All caps means shouting, yes, but it is a hopeful shout!) - kelli_b_83

⬤ I hope you’re coming out with more episodes! The series was abruptly ended on a huge cliffhanger!! It was extremely disappointing! It would be appreciated if you provided closure to Amy and Travis’ storyline. - kelly_stel1

⬤ Could this be a clue @polahaha AKA Detective Travis!!! 🔎🔎 - itsawonderfulmovieblog

⬤ @hallmarkchannel, you are killing us! 😭 You’re running the mystery marathon back-to-back, but there was never an ending to the storyline. We were all waiting, and then the show wasn’t renewed. So after I watch this again, I’ll still be left wondering what happened… The least you can do is give us an ending. We promise we won’t bother you about this again. - hallmarkluv

⬤ More of these please - heartiesteamnathan

⬤ PLEASE...give us back our favorite mystery series, and our favorite crime solving duo!! Ratings would skyrocket and faith in hallmark would definitely be restored SO much!!! - tonyahoward258

And there are many, many more comments just like this!!! 

So, what's your take? Have you given up hope on "Mystery 101" or does this give any of you sleuthers a sliver of hope that this series could return one day, especially now with Michelle Vicary back as head of programming at Hallmark? Please share in comments below.


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Have a great weekend, everyone!

Enjoy these warm Summer days. Sometimes you've got to just stop and smell the roses!

Blessings to you all,

Net

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SHINING HIS LIGHT:

"The heavens declare the glory of God; the skies proclaim the work of his hands."

PSALM 19:1

This weekend's scripture inspiration:

Our local meteorologist said we would have a meteor shower this week, so I stared up at the stars for a little while. Unfortunately, I never caught the shower of stars (perhaps, too much outdoor lighting around), but I did marvel at the Creator of our universe and how beautiful each star in the sky is, the work of His mighty hands. I stood in awe and amazement at how great our God truly is!!! 🌟🌟🌟

And since this weekend's movie on GAF is about sheep, I just had to include these sriptures, too...

"What do you think? If a man owns a hundred sheep, and one of them wanders away, will he not leave the ninety-nine on the hills and go to look for the one that wandered off?

And if he finds it, truly I tell you, he is happier about that one sheep than about the ninety-nine that did not wander off.

In the same way your Father in heaven is not willing that any of these little ones should perish."

MATTHEW 18:12-14

Isn’t it amazing to know how deeply God treasures each person, and how far He will go to bring them back to Him? He would leave the 99 to come and rescue you or me!

May your weekend fill you with that same awe-struck wonder I had while staring at the stars... Enjoy the little moments! God bless!!!🌟

🎄✨ Ash Tsai, Marshall Williams & Julia Reilly Star in a Heartwarming Holiday Tale, “A Belle Christmas,” on Great American Family

( Photo credit: Great American Media 2025 ) 

The latest Christmas movie news from Great American Family has arrived! Let's welcome their brand-new holiday film, “A Belle Christmas”!

Below, you’ll find all the merry details straight from the official Great American Media press release, and don’t stop there! At the end of this post, I’ve sprinkled in some heartwarming reactions from GAF fans on social media. So keep on scrolling, and be sure to share your thoughts, too, in the comments below! 


Great American Media Press Release:

Great American Media

Announces A Belle Christmas

New, Original Movie,

Starring Ash Tsai,

Marshall Williams,

and Julia Reilly,

Premiering on
Great American Family,

Streaming on
Great American Pure Flix,

Premiering on GFam+,

Part of 5th Anniversary

of Great American Christmas

NEW YORK, NY – August 14, 2025 – Great American Media announced production is underway for the new, Original Movie, A Belle Christmas, starring Ash Tsai (Journey to Christmas), Marshall Williams (Jingle Bell Jubilee, “Glee”), and Julia Reilly (“County Rescue”). This film is currently being shot at Great Point Studios in Buffalo, New York, and is set to premiere as part of the 5th Anniversary of GREAT AMERICAN CHRISTMAS in 2025. The beloved programming event will begin airing in October on Great American Family, GFAM+, and streaming on Great American Pure Flix. A Belle Christmas joins a new, all-star lineup for Great American Christmas 2025, celebrating faith, family, love, joy, and hope. Christmas as it is meant to be.

In A Belle Christmas, Belle Carter (Tsai), dedicated but exhausted head of beloved local nonprofit, Bedford House, has devoted her whole life to making Christmas bright for those in need. But with the holidays just days away, donations are down, time is running out, and Belle feels her efforts are slipping away. When the town’s Mayor announces a new nonprofit consultant, Clara James (Reilly) will be joining Belle to help, Belle fears she’s being replaced in the role that has defined her for years. Annoyed at first, Belle unexpectedly finds space for joy she has long ignored. The season brings another surprise: the return of Marine Sgt. Will Mattinson (Williams) who is welcomed home from military service. As old feelings stir, Belle struggles to release responsibility and open her heart to possibility. With Christmas fast approaching and the community’s hopes hanging in the balance, Belle discovers believing in the best of people is the greatest gift of all.

A Belle Christmas is A Belle Christmas production. Tom Vitale and Bob Rich are executive producers. Mac Cappuccino produces. Oliver Friedman directs from an Original Screenplay by Summer Israel Johnson.

ABOUT GREAT AMERICAN MEDIA

Great American Media is home to a family-friendly portfolio of brands including Great American Family, Great American Pure Flix and Great American Faith & Living. As the flagship linear TV network, Great American Family features original Christmas movies, rom-coms and classic series that celebrate faith, family and country. Great American Pure Flix is a leading faith and family streaming service that inspires, uplifts and entertains with content that you can confidently stream with the entire family. Other platforms include, Great American Faith & Living, the unscripted companion to Great American Family that celebrates faith, family, and country every day and every season; Great American Adventures and Pure Flix TV, FAST channels (free ad-supporting streaming TV). Great American Media was established in June 2021 by Bill Abbott and a group of US-based family offices.

MEDIA CONTACTS:

Pam Slay
Network Program Publicity & Talent Relations
818.415.3784
pamslay@gacmedia.com
media@crosswindpr.com

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Social Media Reaction:

"Getting so excited to see all the new movies. GAF is my go to❤️🙏 Thanks for the best family and Christ centered tv❤️" - Janice (Facebook)

"Love all 3 Actors. Cannot wait to watch this. I am sure it will be another one of my favorites" - Annette (Facebook)

"Awesome. Looking forward to all the new movies ❤️ thank you GAF" - Julie (Facebook)

"So excited!" - actingash (Ash Tsai on Instagram)

"Awesome. I was wondering if @actingash would be doing another Christmas movie. She's becoming one of my new favorite actresses in recent yrs. I think she going be up there in the Jen Lilley, Danica, Candace" - jeff85owens15 (Instagram)

"Can’t wait" - juliagracereilly (Instagram)

"Can't wait to see this one, too! I'm really hoping @juliagracereilly will get to be the leading lady in a movie in 2026." - morelikeahopefulromantic (Instagram)

"More great news from GAF! I am counting down to Great American Christmas 2025!" - blessedgigi23 (Instagram)

"Great cast! This looks like a wonderful Christmas movie! I love that this story will honor our military and giving to those in need!🎄✨❤️🎬 Thank you @greatamericanfamily for celebrating the true ❤️ of Christmas!!!" 🎄 - itsawonderfulmovieblog (Instagram)

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And now I'd love to hear from you! Please share your thoughts on this movie or Great American Christmas in comments below!

Have a Blessed Day!

Net