Hallmark announces some "Christmas Joy"

Danielle Panabaker - image via Hallmark Crown Media

Hallmark Press Release:

DANIELLE PANABAKER
AND MATT LONG
STAR IN
‘CHRISTMAS JOY,’

A HALLMARK CHANNEL ORIGINAL MOVIE,
PART OF THE TOP-RATED
COUNTDOWN TO CHRISTMAS PROGRAM EVENT

Film is Based on the Bestselling Novel by Nancy Naigle


STUDIO CITY, CA – April 24, 2018 – Hallmark Channel announces Danielle Panabaker (“The Flash”) and Matt Long (“Timeless”) are set to star in “Christmas Joy,” a Hallmark Channel Original Movie World Premiere for Holiday 2018. “Christmas Joy” is part of the network’s #1-rated program event, COUNTDOWN TO CHRISTMAS. Hallmark Channel is historically the #1 television network in all of Q4.

“Danielle Panabaker is known for quality work in a number of genres, and we are especially grateful to have her on our air this Christmas,” said Michelle Vicary, EVP, Programming & Publicity, Crown Media Family Networks.

“Danielle and Matt Long deliver lively performances in this romantic comedy about love in a small town at Christmastime, all while capturing the theme of Nancy Naigle’s bestselling novel which is that the magic of Christmas will open your heart and bring you everlasting joy,” Vicary concluded.

In “Christmas Joy,” Joy Holbrook (Panabaker) is a keenly intelligent market researcher with an eye on her company’s top account and garnering a sweet promotion just in time for the holidays. Just as Joy is capturing the attention of the account’s CEO, she receives a call from her Aunt Ruby’s best friend back home in Crystal Falls, NC. Ruby has broken her ankle and needs surgery. Though the timing couldn’t be worse, Joy immediately comes to her Aunt’s bedside only to be reunited with former crush, now hospital administrator, Ben Andrews (Long), son of Ruby’s best friend Shirley. Joy also must navigate Ruby’s stubborn determination to be in control of everything, including the town’s legendary annual Cookie Crawl, a walking home tour where owners display holiday decorations and treat each other to Christmas cookies all while vying to win the prized Golden Wreath Award. To keep Ruby focused on healing, Joy volunteers to take her aunt’s place as chair of the Cookie Crawl much to the amusement of Ben who knows Joy has no idea of the Herculean task before her. Though Joy initially refuses Ben’s attempts to “co-captain,” she begins to soften and let him in, all the while remembering that there truly is no place like home for the holidays.

Christmas Joy is a Silver Bells Production Ltd. Vicki Sotheran and Greg Malcolm are Producers. Monika Mitchell directs from a script written by Jennifer Maisel and Tracy Andreen. “Christmas Joy” is based on the bestselling novel by Nancy Naigle.

Royally Ever After - a Hallmark Channel Royal Movie starring Fiona Gubelmann and Torrance Coombs

MOVIE REVIEW

Movie: Royally Ever After

Network: Hallmark Channel

Original Air Date: May 19, 2018

CAST:

Fiona Gubelmann ... Sara
Torrance Coombs ... Daniel
Carmen du Sautoy ... Queen Patricia
Barry McGovern ... King Edmond
John Faulker ... Jackson
Rebekah Wainwright ... Fiona
Fiona Bell ... Marie
John Guerrasio ... Bert
Aideen Wylde ... Lena
Shashi Rami ... Chef
Kimberly Leemans ... Caitlin
Sadhbh O’Donovan ... Willa
Donna Anita Nikolaisen ... The Countess
Tessa ... Louisa Dolan
Terry Trebicki ... Gavin
John Carty ... Gardener

PLOT:

Storyline via Hallmark: Sara’s dream of finding the perfect mate is realized when boyfriend Daniel proposes marriage, but there is one tiny hitch. It turns out he is the real-life prince of a small European monarchy, and his marriage requires the approval of his royal parents. Commoner Sara will have to do more than simply impress the in-laws-to-be. If she wants to become Daniel’s wife, she’ll have to prove she’s got all the makings of an honest-to-goodness princess.

Movie Review:

Coming...


See or Skip:

Coming...


--
*images via: Hallmark Crown Media Family Networks
Credit: Copyright 2018 Crown Media United States LLC/Photographer: Steffan Hill

Heartbreaking. My Review of “When Calls the Heart” Season 5 Finale. #Hearties

Please note: Spoilers included below.

Throughout the week, since we were given the news that Jack was possibly gone at the end of episode 9, I didn’t want to believe it was true. I couldn’t. I didn’t. For those of us who are (or who have been) devoted “When Calls the Heart” fans, Hearties, we have invested 5 years and seasons in Jack and Elizabeth’s love story… and this is the Hallmark Channel, after all, famous for romantic tales and happily-ever-after endings. Week after week, we faithfully watched their show, we gave our time and energy, tweeting along or sharing on other social media sites, etc… to support the actors, actresses, “WCTH,” and the joy and promise we felt when we turned on our TV and returned each week to Hope Valley.

After the abrupt, shocking end to episode 9, I kept reading… just wait, wait until you see the finale. That gave me a sense of hope once again; enough hope to believe that somehow everything was going to be okay, that five seasons of watching the romance of Elizabeth and Jack slowly develop on “When Calls the Heart” would not be the end. But when Lori Loughlin came on at the beginning and warned of viewing the finale episode with children present, I was actually filled with dread… as I was sure I was not going to see the happy outcome I had hoped for, the one all fans of “When Calls the Heart” deserved.

Sadly, as I stated before, and Lori Loughlin confirmed by her statement, “When Calls the Heart” is no longer a television show the entire family can sit down on a Sunday evening and joyfully watch together, and I am sad that Hallmark used to be a place we could always trust to come to in the past– to feel uplifted in this uncertain world we live in today. Unfortunately, it is no longer that refuge. The finale left me feeling cheated, as well… as Clara as Elizabeth stated, cheated of the love story I felt viewers were promised. I know things like this, sadly, do happen in real life, but Hallmark, as we all know, is not real life, it’s supposed to be a happy place, a place families can trust, a place where if you visit for an hour or two-your soul feels rejuvenated in the goodness of life and people, and you can go about your evening or day and feel good inside. Since watching the finale of “When Calls the Heart,” I have not felt that same sense of peace about the program. The writers have no idea of the pain they’ve caused so many. After viewing this season’s end, I would not want any of the children in my family to watch and feel the same sadness I did.

I have skimmed social media to gauge reaction, and there’s definitely a mix of emotions among viewers. Some are outraged and done watching the series altogether, while others are sad, yet loyal, through and through. I think this is deeply heartbreaking, how these last episodes of Season 5 have divided loyal fans and viewers, in an hour that was typically meant for entire families to watch together.

If Daniel Lissing had other projects he wanted to do,... fine. His contract was up. But, instead of killing off Jack, why not replace him, instead? This is the decision that hurts most of all. Writers and Producers collaborated together and thought this would be an emotional, bombshell way to end the season… and give them the opportunity to have Elizabeth open up her heart to love again, possibly in season six, and bond with the other numerous widow ladies of Hope Valley.

My Momma reminded me that if they can replace John Boy Walton (Richard Thomas) on The Waltons when he decided to leave the show, they can surely replace anybody. And, later on, in reunion movies, Richard Thomas returned to that role that made him originally famous and so well known. I even believe I recall reading that he regretted leaving the show when he did; fortunately, for him... the door was still left open for him to return.

As for “When Calls the Heart,” I now feel disconnected, let down, and disenchanted with these characters – I had once loved so dearly. The only spark or glimmer of hope for me… was sweet Rosemary and Lee! Without their charm and beautiful smiles, I would have never made it through the finale. And sweet Clara, I definitely felt her heart.

At the end of this episode, as we all saw… Abigail came to the conclusion that Elizabeth was expecting. I found it rather odd that Dr. Shepherd hadn’t concluded this earlier during her checkup at his office. That was rather peculiar. Beyond that… there is, of course, great joy in the promise of new life, but from here on out, Elizabeth’s story will always be bittersweet, and tinged with sadness.

How do I feel about the new, upcoming season of “When Calls the Heart?” I must admit, as much as I have loved this show, and the books that inspired it, by Janette Oke… I do have great, enormous trepidation and hesitation, of giving my time and heart to these characters once again.

Please share your thoughts and hearts in comments below…

Blessings to you all, Net

"Let not your heart be troubled..."

~John 14:1

My "When Calls the Heart" Birthday Celebration - before the Finale!

As Season 5 of “When Calls the Heart” comes to an end, with all of its emotions, drama, and suspense… I thought this would be a good time to share my very HAPPY “When Calls the Heart” birthday celebration – from earlier this month!

It is my birthday wish that you enjoy this special look at my celebration and it fills you with “hope” …

From my cake and decorations… to my very “Elizabeth” looking dress…

Let’s begin with my “When Calls the Heart” birthday cake…

My Momma, Sister, and I had such fun making it together! (A.K.A. Abigail, Rosemary, and Elizabeth!)

The cake featured two layers, with gold frames picturing cast members, and small items that represent each character, by occupation, interests, and lifestyle. For instance, near Bill Avery you will find a guitar, type writer, and magnify glass… near Rosemary you will find a tea set, and next to Elizabeth, books, Jack, a red lantern, Abigail, an apron and mixing bowls, Opal, a bear named Brownie (of course!), Lee, a stack of wood and saw, Dr. Carson and Nurse Faith, a stethoscope and nurse’s hat, Clara, a sewing basket, and the children, a baseball bat & glove and a doll.

My sister, who is very much like Rosemary, found all of these amazing pieces; my absolute favorites are the beautiful white dress form and the Ford Model “T”! (I can just hear Rosemary (Pascale Hutton) in my mind saying… “Oh, Lee… You bought a car!”)






On the very top of the cake is the Hope Valley Church with a wagon and horses, and a grapevine heart to symbolize all the love in their little town. The second layer is covered with a quilt made of edible fondant and wafer paper, which was kind of interesting to piece together, at first, but in the end, I was amazed at how it came out so beautifully!




For the party, the cake was left intact and cupcakes (see below) were served… my Great-Grandmother’s Million Dollar Pound Cake… it’s a white cake, and most delicious! The recipe has been handed down -generation after generation! Come to think about it… this particular cake was most likely baked around the era represented in “When Calls the Heart,” by my Great-Grandmother, or perhaps, even her Mother! That very idea – makes it all the more special!

In each of the cupcakes, as you can see below, are cupcake-picks I simply printed out of various characters from “When Calls the Heart,” in heart-shaped cupcake wrappers - which you can get at Michaels craft store!

I just loved these little party tea cups - made of paper! They would be perfect for a little girl's tea party, too!





Here’s a bit closer look of the cake and the characters featured from “When Calls the Heart…”

All the ladies who attended the party wore beautiful white dresses, and the men, white dress shirts and casual pants. Two of the children surprised me by specially dressing up… one in a prairie girl costume, just like Opal, and the boy, a Mountie, just like Jack… with the red jacket, Canadian Mountie hat, and everything! It was so sweet! I loved and cherished every minute!

The moment I saw the dress I wore for the party, I simply fell in love with it! Thankfully, I was able to shop around a bit, and I found it at an incredibly reduced price! It was perfect... I felt just like I borrowed my dress from “Elizabeth’s” closet for the day and stepped right into Hope Valley!

These exquisite party plates (yes, they are paper!) and napkins were the perfect elegant touch for a “When Calls the Heart” celebration!

One of my birthday gifts was a sweet teddy bear, in honor of sweet Opal’s bear, Brownie! Isn’t he just adorable?

I also received the “When Calls the Heart” devotional and journal, a “When Calls the Heart” Christmas DVD my collection was lacking, the latest “Signed, Sealed, Delivered” DVD release “Truth be Told,” a canning jar by Pioneer Woman, a Royal Fine Bone Old Country Rose Heart Music Box, a China Tea Cup, with Lid, Magnetic Dart Board game, Little Blue House by Hatley Teacup PJ’s, and a Hearties “When Calls the Heart” t-shirt & tank from Zazzle.

#Hearties - When Calls the Heart White and Red Tee

by Hallmark_Channel

This sweet country church painting titled "Sunday Go To Meeting" (with actual lights that light up by timer every day - in each church window!) reminded me of the Hope Valley church, and not only was it beautiful décor for the party, but a truly lovely piece of artwork and conversation piece.

This church window below, made of wood and corrugated galvanized metal, from Hobby Lobby, is a wonderful magnetic board. I had such fun choosing which “When Calls the Heart” pictures to clip to the display!

A scripture of “hope” for Hope Valley and all of us each day…

“May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace
as you trust in Him,
so that you may overflow with hope
by the power of the Holy Spirit.”
~ Romans 15:13

My Momma and Daddy's old-fashioned distressed black frame, with gold hearts in each corner, was an ideal display for this cast picture of “When Calls the Heart.”

And, an overall look of the entire "When Calls the Heart" party table… with a chalkboard - where my sweet sister, who is a fantastic artist, wrote "Happy Birthday" so beautifully in chalk.

"From chalk dust to eternity"
~Elizabeth Thatcher

Thank you all who visit here and give me the gift of your presence! I am blessed by your friendship, your warm-hearted comments, and all of our discussions on family movies and shows, like “When Calls the Heart.” I would have loved to have shared this birthday with all of you! So, I hope you have enjoyed this little taste of the celebration!

Blessings to you all, Net

Watch the "When Calls the Heart"

Season 5 Finale

Episode 10: "Close to my Heart"

Sunday, April 22, 2018

9pm/8c. on the Hallmark Channel

Click Here to Watch "When Calls the Heart" Season 5 -
by Episode or Season Pass.

"When Calls the Heart" Season 5 Finale is Here!

We've waited an entire season for this incredible moment, and now... here it is upon us! Most of the time we never want "When Calls the Heart" to come to an end, but this time around, we just desperately want it to begin and answer all of our week-long burning questions from the sudden end to episode nine.

(Please read my updated review
of the Season 5 Finale - HERE!)

"When Calls the Heart" Season 5 Poster - via: Hallmark Crown Media

Many have been asking, "Can children watch this finale episode?" Without question, we've all considered "WCTH" to be a family show before, one special time each Sunday when all ages could typically come together and share an hour of entertainment.

I sincerely hope there is a positive outcome ahead in the finale, but since none of us know what news will be revealed next, we cannot be certain if young viewers should be watching. The abrupt end to episode nine broke many Hearties hearts, young and old alike. Daniel Lissing should be quite honored that his character means so much to all the "WCTH" fans.

I've heard many parents say they will be previewing before their young children see this episode, which I think, sadly, is a good idea. At this time, we cannot trust that the show will be appropriate for family viewing, for all ages, but I do hope our faith will be restored. We watch the Hallmark Channel, "the Heart of TV," to escape reality for a little while, to be uplifted, and encouraged... let's hope season 5 ends with more of these themes.


Throughout this season of "When Calls the Heart" we've all felt a gamut of emotions...

Blessed

...when "When Calls the Heart" returned in February for Season 5.

Forgiveness

...when Abigail testified on behalf of Henry Gowen.

Patience

...when Elizabeth missed Jack while he was in the Northern Territory.

Optimistic

...when Abigail convinced the railroad to build its depot in Hope Valley.

Proud 

...when Julie Thatcher came to Hope Valley
and announced she was going to be a teacher, too, just like Elizabeth.

Jealous

...when Clara thought she might be loosing Jesse to Julie.

Tension

...when the Bank could not pay out any funds.

Sad

...when sweet Phillip had trouble seeing and needed to go to the children's hospital.

Faith

...when Pastor Frank returned to Hope Valley, but felt a calling to return - to help the children.

Joy

...when Jack returned to Hope Valley and he and Elizabeth decided to get married.

Determination

...when Rosemary helped Elizabeth plan their wedding in such a short time.

Confident

...when Jack visited Elizabeth's Father and asked for his blessing.

Concerned

...when the children accidentally set the church on fire, practicing for the wedding ceremony.

Grateful

...when Jack rescued Opal from the fiery flames.

Admiration

...when the town came together to rebuild the church.

Love, beyond measure

...when Jack and Elizabeth exchanged vows on their wedding day.

Promise

...when Jack and Elizabeth talked about their future, children, and building their home.

Suspicious 

...when A.J Foster returned - turning herself into Sheriff Bill Avery.

Enthusiastic

...when the children of Hope Valley followed business leaders for the day.

Honored
...when Cody decides he wants to be a businessman, just like Lee.

Troubled

...when Bill Avery protects A.J. and is bitten by a snake.

Betrayed
...when it appeared Henry Gowan was going to return to a life of crime.

Pride
...when Jesse admitted to Clara he hadn't finished the 8th grade,
but was still trying to learn.

Optimistic

...when Dr. Carson Shepherd successfully performed his Sister-n-Law's operation.

Victorious
...when Abigail finds and secures a sound investor for Hope Valley.

Amused
...when Cody and Robert drop Dr. Shepherd's birthday cake
and try their best to bake another one.

Shock
...when the Mountie delivered sad news to Elizabeth
(presumably about Jack).

Surprised

...when this news was delivered at the end of the episode,
leaving us waiting an entire week to find out what really happened.

Apprehension

...as we await the Finale of this season.

Hope

...as we most assuredly "hope" that Season 5 ends, somehow,
with everyone's hearts happy once again!

While I was most definitely shocked, like many of you, on how episode 9, "In My Dreams" ended and somewhat hurt they would play on our emotions so strongly, I am still filled with great hope... it is Hallmark and Hope Valley, after all.

I am hopeful there will be a positive conclusion to this season, it's just a feeling I have, possibly like Rosemary's woman's intuition! However, we shall all have to wait and see how this season finishes out... we definitely need some hope before Season 6!

Watch the "When Calls the Heart"

Season 5 Finale

Episode 10: "Close to my Heart"

Sunday, April 22, 2018

9pm/8c. on the Hallmark Channel

Click Here to Watch "When Calls the Heart" Season 5 -
by Episode or Season Pass.