Ep 9. Not a Creature Was Staying

One Day at a Time Season 9 Episode 9 - "Not a Creature Was Staying"

In this heartwarming and festive episode of One Day at a Time, titled "Not a Creature Was Staying", the Alvarez family gears up for their annual holiday tradition of hosting a Christmas party at their home. As the snow falls outside and the smell of freshly baked cookies fills the air, the warmth and love within the walls of the Alvarez household is palpable.

The episode opens with Penelope (Justina Machado) organizing the final details for the party, ensuring that everything is picture-perfect for their guests. She enlists the help of her daughter Elena (Isabella Gomez) and her son Alex (Marcel Ruiz) to decorate the house and prepare the scrumptious holiday treats. With each ornament carefully hung and every strand of lights delicately placed, the house transforms into a winter wonderland.

As the preparations continue, the Alvarez family faces their fair share of challenges. Penelope juggles her work as a nurse while trying to create a magical Christmas experience for her loved ones. Meanwhile, Lydia (Rita Moreno), Penelope's exuberant mother, adds her own flair to the festivities as she shares stories of her own holiday adventures from years past. Always the life of the party, Lydia's infectious energy brings an extra dose of joy to the celebrations.

Schneider (Todd Grinnell), Penelope's lovable landlord and friend, eagerly lends a hand, helping to set up decorations and providing his own unique brand of humor. His commitment to being part of the Alvarez family's traditions serves as a reminder that family goes beyond blood. Penelope's best friend, Dr. Leslie Berkowitz (Stephen Tobolowsky), also joins in on the fun, offering his assistance and adding his own dose of comedic relief.

As the guests begin to arrive, old and new faces alike grace the doorstep of the Alvarez home. Carmen (Ariela Barer), Penelope's friend and co-worker, arrives with her energetic younger sister, Estrellita (guest star Gina Rodriguez). Their presence injects an extra layer of excitement into the celebrations as they join the rest of the family in laughter, conversation, and delicious food.

Throughout the episode, the spirit of love, understanding, and acceptance resonates, highlighting the importance of community and togetherness during the holiday season. Each character faces their own personal challenges and growth, but they find solace in the warmth and support their chosen family provides.

In "Not a Creature Was Staying," the holiday spirit is not confined to just the Alvarez family home. The episode explores the characters' efforts to give back to the less fortunate, reminding viewers of the true meaning of the season. Acts of kindness and charity are woven into the fabric of the story, emphasizing the importance of extending love and compassion beyond one's immediate circle.

As the night draws to a close, this heartwarming episode concludes with a poignant reminder of the power of tradition, family, and the bonds that hold us together. The Alvarez family, along with their extended family and friends, discover that the holidays are not solely about the gifts or the decorations, but about the love and connection they share.

"Not a Creature Was Staying" is an emotionally charged and uplifting episode that captures the essence of the holiday season. With its relatable and endearing characters, this installment of One Day at a Time reminds viewers of the joys of family, the importance of community, and the beauty of creating lasting memories during the most wonderful time of the year.