I have watched this movie every Christmas since it was first on in 2011. In fact, I'm watching it now.
I have a fond memory of this movie because I watched it the first year that it was on with my mom. That was 6 years ago. My mom passed away in December 2015. So, it reminds me of us sitting in her living room watching it. Mom thought that it was a good old fashioned sentimental movie that did make our eyes a little misty. I remember her saying that Kristy Swenson was a pretty girl. Mom was 91 at the time, so Kristy was a girl to her. Mom had some tough times too and she related to her character.
I like it because of the same reasons. It is about kindness to people struggling, but trying to improve their situation and hope that things will get better. I thought that the acting was realistic. Kristy was great, Edward Hermann gave a good performance, as usual. Page Petrucka who plays Lola is a hoot and a half. The only thing, and it's minor, the time line of the story is a bit rushed. But, they had to fit a lot of story in less than 2 hours.
If you like old fashioned, sentimental Christmas fare, this is for you.