Young at Heart

Songwriter Alex Burke arrives in Strafford and becomes part of the musical Tuttle family. His easy charm and talent draw immediate attention, unsettling the household and foreshadowing a tangle of affections.

Alex's personality resonates with Laurie Tuttle, and the pair seem made for each other. Their growing bond unsettles Laurie's sisters and spices up family dynamics as the romance develops.

Barney Sloan, a friend of Alex, comes to assist with the musical arrangements. His bleak outlook contrasts with Alex's optimism, prompting Laurie to try to pull him toward a more hopeful outlook.

Fran becomes engaged to Bob, while Amy also harbors strong feelings for Alex. The three sisters' affections create a complicated web of romance around the growing relationship with Alex.

Alex asks Laurie to marry him and she accepts, solidifying plans that drive a wedge through the family and set the stage for upcoming weddings. Fran's engagement to Bob remains in the background as a counterpoint.

Amy is devastated by Laurie's engagement and the looming wedding. Aunt Jessie notices Amy's secret love for Alex, hinting at unspoken heartbreak beneath the smiles.

On the eve of the wedding, Barney confesses that Amy loves Alex and that Laurie doesn't believe him at first. The truth becomes clear only when Laurie returns home and sees Amy crying.

Laurie confronts the wedding choice and ultimately leaves Alex at the altar, eloping with Barney. The move shatters the expected family harmony and alters everyone's plans.

At Christmas, Laurie and Barney return home. Laurie tells Amy that she loves Barney and that she is pregnant, though she has not yet told Barney. Amy has since fallen in love with Ernie, adding to the holiday tensions.

Alex has found career success during the holidays. Barney agrees to go with Bob to the train, transporting Alex for the next phase of his life while grappling with his own decisions and looming heartbreak.

In a moment of despair during a snowstorm, Barney drives into oncoming traffic with windshield wipers off. He survives the crash, which cements a turning point as he begins to reclaim life with Laurie's support.

Surviving the crash gives Barney a renewed sense of self-worth. He writes the song he had been working on and finds new purpose in life and in his relationship with Laurie and their baby.