Brotherly Love

December 24, 1986
6:00 PM EST
Family Ties Universe

'So are you done with your Christmas shopping?' Skippy Handelman asked his best friend, Alex Keaton. 'I would like to buy something for Bethany Newman, but I'm not sure what I should buy her. Maybe I could get her a big box of Banquet fried chicken and mashed potatoes for a gift. Maybe I could also buy some applesauce for her.'

Alex sighed, as he put his hands on Skippy's shoulders. 'Uh, look, Skippy,' Alex said, gently, 'if you really want to impress Bethany, buying her groceries is not the way to go. Groceries is what people give away for charity. You know, for charities like The Salvation Army. People don't give away groceries as presents. It's just not proper.'

'Alex is right, Skippy,' chimed in Winston Schwartz. 'If you want to impress the girls, you buy them hygiene products. You know, buy them things like soap and shampoo. Women really dig that kinda stuff. They can be rather obsessed with cleanliness.'

'Winston, you're not being very helpful,' Alex said, sighing. Then, turning to Skippy, he suggested, 'Gifts I would recommend for women would be perfume or bath beads. Maybe they might like some nail polish - or perhaps they might like some make-up.'

'Isn't that what I just said?' Winston asked, defensively. 'How are the gifts you just suggested different from what I suggested. Maybe just buy her a box of chocolates.'

'No, that I would not recommend,' protested Alex. 'Many women tend to be on diets - and the last thing they would like is a box of chocolates. Look, I should start heading home, now. I have to finish wrapping up my presents, and get them under the tree.'

'So are you looking forward for tomorrow?' asked Skippy. 'I'll probably be up early.'

'Yeah, Christmas is the most wonderful time of year,' Alex gushed. 'I must say that I'm real concerned for Mallory, though. She wants to take up wrestling, and I'm just concerned that she might get hurt. I just can't stand to see her injured, you know.'

'Just tell her how you feel,' suggested Winston. 'Just tell her that you don't want her to be harmed. I can't imagine I would ever take up wrestling, you know. It seems to me like a rather dangerous sports. Really, what's the the point of wrestling, anyway?'

'You know, I'm not sure,' replied Alex. 'The one problem is, though, Mallory does not take very well to advice. She can be very defensive over things like that. Anyway, I bet that, a month from now, she won't be interested in wrestling anymore. She tends to be a bit fickle like that, you know. Anyway, I really don't want to hurt her feelings.'

'She doesn't seem too worried about hurting my feelings,' grumbled Skippy. 'It hurts that she doesn't like me. I don't understand what she sees in Nick, anyway.'

'I really don't understand her infatuation with Nick, either,' Alex said, sighing. Then, turning to Winston, he added, 'I'll maybe stop by again tomorrow night. I'm going to drive Skippy and I home now. Take care of yourself, Winston, and Merry Christmas!'

'Have a Merry Christmas yourself,' replied Winston. 'Take good care of yourselves!'

oooooooooo

As Alex was driving Skippy home, he was thinking of his best friend. Skippy always did have bad luck with the opposite gender. Most of the time, Skippy had a crush on Mallory - who most decidedly did not love him back. Alex then sighed, as he thought of Mallory. He thought Skippy would be a better match for Mallory than Nick Moore - whom nobody else in their family was too fond of. He then turned into the driveway.

'It's been nice spending time with you, Alex,' gushed Skippy. 'Thank you for all of the advice. You're a great friend. Have a great evening, and Merry Christmas to you!'

'Merry Christmas to you, too!' Alex called out, cheerfully. 'Good night, and take care!'

As Alex pulled into the driveway of his own home, something really shiny had caught his eye. As he stepped out of the car, he picked up the stone and gazed at it. It was the most colourful stone he had ever seen. It was so beautiful, he was mesmorized.

As Alex stepped into the house, he saw that the only one that was in the house was Mallory. He decided now was maybe a good time to express his concerns to Mallory.

'Say, uh, listen, Mallory,' Alex said, gently, as he walked into the living room. 'There is something I would like to talk with you about. You have a minute or two to spare?'

'Yeah, sure, I guess,' mumbled Mallory. 'So what is it that you would like to discuss?'

'Well, uh, Mallory,' Alex said, taking a deep breath, 'I must say that I'm really a bit concerned for you. I'm not sure if it's really a good idea for you to take up wrestling. It is a rather dangerous sport - and, well, you see, I just don't want you to get hurt.'

'I'll be fine, Alex!' Mallory protested, defensively. 'What is it you're concerned about, anyway? Is it the fact that I'm a woman, and you think wrestling is a man's sport?'

'Uh, well... No! No! It's not what I'm saying at all!' Alex was quick to reply. 'Well, I'm not sure! Maybe it is the case, sort of. Many of these men who take up wresting can be very tough and strong - and, well, I just can't stand to see you being injured. You are my sister, and I really love you - even if I do sometimes give you a hard time.'

'So you are saying that wrestling is a man's sport!' Mallory insisted, raising her voice. 'You're not fooling me at all with your false concern for me. Just come right out and say it, Alex! Just go right ahead and tell me that you believe wrestling is a sport for manly men - and that I, as a weak woman, am unworthy to partake in that sport!'

'You really think that's how I feel, Mallory?' Alex asked, quietly. 'I personally could not give a damn about wrestling myself. I just never understood that sport. Listen, Mallory, I just don't want you to be hurt. That's all I'm really trying to say to you. I swear that you tend to take everything out of proportion. I really do care about you.'

'Yeah, sure, Alex!' Mallory spat out, angrily. 'So you really expect me to believe that? You expect me to believe that you're being discouraging out of real concern for me?'

Alex watched on, stunned, as Mallory stalked off to her bedroom. Alex was blinking back tears, as he thought of the way his sister misunderstood him. Granted, Alex had been known to tease his sister for her ditsiness - but he did love his sister dearly. He really had not meant to hurt his sister, but she could be so overly sensative at times.

With a heavy sigh, Alex headed to his bedroom. He took the stone from his pocket to admire its beauty. Alex wanted to show the stone to Skippy, but he was afraid that Skippy might end up dropping and breaking the stone. It was something to treasure.

As the stone began to glow in Alex's hand, his eyes grew big. He gently set the stone on the floor, as a whirlwind began to form on the stone. Alex watched the whirlwind as it grew bigger. Suddenly, Alex felt himself being sucked into the whirlwind.

Sibling Rivalry

December 24, 1986
6:00 PM PST
BTTF Universe

'I must say,' Kevin Maxwell was saying, 'you boys sure do have a lot of talent. You know, if I worked for a major record label, I would definitely sign you guys on.'

'Thanks so much, Kev,' Marty McFly gushed. 'Your support really means a lot to me. So you really have an uncle who works for a record label? That is totally awesome.'

'That's correct,' Kevin said, smiling. 'I will definitely put in a good word for you and your band. I mean, you guys totally rock! Screw all the audition judges who say that you guys are too loud! They just don't know what they're talking about. Just don't pay any attention to those naysayers, and keep your chin up. Just take it from me.'

'Yeah, these guys just don't appreciate our kind of music,' said Zach Nelson, rolling his eyes. 'With Strickland in charge... Well, how old is Strickland, anyway? Not that I have anything against old people in general - but what would Strickland know about what's good and what isn't? Heck, he's even older than my Grandpa Sam, you know.'

'Actually, speaking of grandpas,' Marty said, nodding, 'it's hard to believe this now, but Strickland actually did used to be friends with my Grandpa Arthur. My parents are thirty years older than me - and my grandparents are sixty years older than me.'

'So what happened between Strickland and your grandpa?' asked Joey Landvatter. 'It must have been something quite major? I wonder if Strickland even has any friends.'

'Well, I don't want to dwell on this, too much,' Marty said, sighing. 'Truth to be told, my grandpa was the one at fault. They were in high school during The Prohibition, and my grandpa was desperate to be popular. So, in order to join the club, he had to do some mean things to his friends. As a result, Strickland had never forgiven him.'

'Whoa, that sounds awful!' gasped Kevin. 'I would guess, though, that Strickland had been a pretty disagreeable person even before that. Well, I'm glad I didn't go to high school here in Hill Valley. The principal we had at our school wasn't quite so bad.'

'Well, you were lucky, then,' Billy Winterson said, with an envious sigh. 'It always did seem like Strickland really had it in for us. Although, to be fair, Marty did sometimes bring it on. He used to have this tendancy of always being late for school, after all.'

'Did you have to bring this up, Billy?' Marty groaned. 'I have not had the problem since January - and I did graduate from high school, didn't I? It's in the past, now.'

'Sorry, Marty,' Billy said, blushing. 'I didn't mean to make you feel bad. It's just that I remember how Strickland threatened to forbid you to perform - which meant that we would have had to kick you out, and it would've been pretty hard to find another talented guitarist like you. You really are a valueable asset to our group, you know.'

'I used to have difficulty with punctuality, too,' offered Kevin. 'My stamina was pretty bad, back when I was in high school. I would try to make it to bed at 10:00 every night, but I would still be so tired in the morning. That's why I work afternoon shifts.'

'Well, everyone,' suggested Marty, 'should we head out to Francesca's Italian Diner for dinner, tonight? I'm really in the mood for some Italian food. I love eating stuffed shells.'

'Well, actually,' Kevin said, sighing, 'I was going to head home to change my clothes, and then pick up your sister for a date. We were going to eat out, then see a movie.'

'I promised my parents I would be home by seven,' added Billy. 'I have to babysit my sisters, so that my parents can do their last minute Christmas shopping. I'm not really looking too forward for this, but a promise is a promise. So I'd better leave.'

'Zoe and I have a date tonight, too,' added Zach. 'I also have to finish my Christmas shopping. I need to think of some good presents to pick up for my grandparents.'

'Speaking of grandparents,' added Joey, 'I was going to go to my grandma's house with my family. I also have to be home soon. Nothing like spending Christmas with Grandma. She's a wonderful and fun lady to be with. She's only 67 years old, too.'

'Jennifer was going to spend Christmas with her grandma's, too,' Marty said, sighing. 'Well, I guess I might as well head home. I really have nothing else to do, tonight.'

oooooooooo

Marty was feeling cheerful, as soon as she arrived home. She found a very colourful stone in the driveway of the McFly's home. He felt a bit silly, getting all excited over a little stone - but it was the most beautiful stone he had ever seen. He had to find a good place to keep the stone, and make sure he didn't lose it. He slipped the stone inside his pocket, as he stepped inside. He then saw Linda sitting in the living room.

'Marty,' Linda said, a bit firmly, 'come in here and sit down. I really need to talk with you about Kevin. I don't like the way you've been spending so much time with him. He is my boyfriend. I don't like the way the two of you hang out like buddies.'

'Hey, what's the big deal?' Marty asked, defensively. 'He always keeps his dates with you, doesn't he? Listen here, Linda, have I ever made him late to any of your dates?'

'That's not the point, Marty!' Linda insisted. 'The point is, I do not want you being buddies with my boyfriend. You stay away from him? Do you understand me?'

'You're sounding like a jealous girlfriend,' Marty groaned, in frustration. 'I'm not gay, Linda. There is nothing going on between Kevin and I. We're just buddies. That's all!'

'Did I say you were gay, Marty?' Linda snapped. 'No, I did not! You are completely missing my point, Martin Seamus McFly! The point is, think of what this can do for my reputation! What do you think people would think of my boyfriend being buddies with my kid brother? There are certain lines you don't cross. You crossed over that line!'

'Well, gee, Linda!' Marty spat out, blinking back tears. 'I'm so sorry that I'm such an embarassment to you that I can't even be friendly to your boyfriend! Would you like it better if I hated his guts, and called him all kinds of names? I'm sure you wouldn't.'

'Marty, you are being so childish!' shouted Linda, as she stalked off to her bedroom.

'No, Linda, you're the one who's being childish!' Marty shouted back, as he headed to his own bedroom. He couldn't believe how unreasonable Linda was being. It's not like his sister could dictate who he can or can't be friends with.

As he blinked back tears, he reached into his pocket for the stone. As he began to admire the stone, it let off a bright glow of light. Marty then set the stone on the ground. The glow then got bigger, as it formed a whirlwind on top. Out of curiosity, Marty stuck his hand into the whirlwind. The vortex immediately sucked him through. Marty felt a bit panicked.

Old Friends Reunite

December 24, 1986
7:00 PM PST
Land of Colour Universe

Marty felt a bit dizzy, as he landed on the ground. He stretched his arms, and then he discovered he was lying in a grassy area of a countryside. It was a bright clear night, and it was fairly warm. Marty gazed a bit into the stars, as he sat up. He could also hear a chorus of crickets chirping. He took a deep breath, and blinked a few times.

How the hell did I get here? Marty thought, to himself. He remembered that he was admiring the colourful stone that he found - and then, some way or another, that stone must have formed some kind of portal that led into this strange world. Marty sighed a little, as he looked around a bit. Where is Doc, when you need him?

Ever since Dr. Emmett Brown, whom Marty affectionately called 'Doc', had revealed to him the DeLorean that he had converted into a time machine a little over a year ago - Marty has had many adventures through the fourth-dimension. In fact, it was a result of being sent back to 1885 that Doc met his wife, Clara - and they since had three children together. Jules and Verne were both born back in the Old West - while their youngest child, Haven, was born just a little over a month ago. In fact, much to their amazement, Haven was born exactly 31 years after the night of the famous Hill Valley lightning storm - which was a day of particular significance to Marty and Doc.

Then, as Marty stood up, he found himself staring at a young man who looked just like him. This wasn't exactly a new occurence to him, as Marty did meet quite a few people who looked like him - which included his future son, Marty Jr, and even other versions of himself from other dimensions. He wondered who this person could be.

'You look just like me!' Marty gasped, to his doppelganger. 'What is your name - and where did you come from? I'm not even sure I got here. I was in my bedroom just a few minutes ago - and then, suddenly, poof! I find myself here in the countryside!'

'That is so funny!' replied the doppelganger, stunned. 'You know, this is exactly what happened to me. I'm wondering if I must be dreaming. Anyway, I'm Alex Keaton.'

'Alex Keaton?' Marty asked, stunned. 'It's amazing to see you here! I'm Marty McFly!'

'Marty McFly?' Alex asked, stunned. 'Say, just forgive me if this sounds like a strange question, but have I met you before? Were you in our universe a few months ago?'

'Yes!' Marty gasped, stunned. 'That was me! I was the one who was trying to check out Roanoke Island - and, by accident, I landed in your universe. So how are you doing, buddy? You still have plans to work at Wall Street? How is little Andrew doing?'

'Oh, working at Wall Street is my dream!' gushed Alex. 'Andy is certainly growing to be a fine strong boy. He's such an adorable young thing. You know, if I ever do end up getting a job at Wall Street, I really will miss Andy. I'll certainly miss Jennifer, too - and I'll even miss Mallory. We don't always get along, but I do care deeply for her.'

'Linda and I don't always get along, either,' Marty said, nodding with understanding. 'Can you believe that she got mad at me for being buddies with her boyfriend? Don't you think that's a little bit unreasonable. Would you mind if Mallory dated one of your buddies? I guess I don't understand what the big deal is. I still love Linda, though.'

'Mostly, I would just be surprised if Mallory wanted to date one of my buddies,' Alex replied. 'I would much prefer that over her dating Nick Moore, you know. Some of Mallory's friends have had crushes on me, and Mallory never seemed to really mind.'

'Well, I know Skippy has always had a thing for Mallory,' commented Marty. 'Also, I know that Skippy once had a crush on Mallory's friend, Jane - but Jane seemed to have a thing for you instead. In a way, Skippy reminds me of my father as a teen.'

'Yeah, your father was pretty shy around girls, wasn't he?' asked Alex. 'Gee, this is so freaky, you know - that we've watched each other on TV. Say, in your universe, are they still filming new episodes of Family Ties? I must say it's a little bit creepy.'

'Yeah, they are,' Marty said, quietly. 'However, for some reason or another, they did age your little brother by a few years - and the two of you are definitely real close.'

'Why would they do that?' Alex asked, stunned. 'It's not like they aged Michelle a few years on Full House. Well, I guess I'm actually relieved - as the idea that my life is still being film on TV is a bit creepy, to say the least.'

'Well, the idea that they might film sequels for Back to the Future in your universe is a bit creepy to me,' replied Marty. 'Well, let's just try to put this out of our minds.'

'Yeah, you're right,' Alex said, sighing. 'Let's see if we can find our way out of here. I know this sounds a bit strange, but there might be a reason why we were sent here.'

'I wonder what, though,' Marty said, stunned. He then started to walk forward, as Alex followed him. 'I see some houses down there, and I see some Christmas lights. So it must be Christmas in the world, too. It's pretty warm here, so I wonder where we might be. Even in Hill Valley, it's not quite this warm. Granted, Hill Valley is in the northern portion of California. Well, I can't imagine that this world would be too bad.'

'Well, ordinarily, I would say that Christmas isn't really Christmas without snow,' Alex said, sighing. 'However, considering that I'm not exactly dressed for cold weather, this is pretty nice. The question is, though - where on earth are we going to stay?'

'Yeah, I'm a bit worried, too,' Marty said, quietly. 'I mean, we can't exactly knock on the door of some stranger's home - and ask if we can stay with them.' Just as Marty and Alex stepped onto the dirt road, Marty continued, 'Look at all these Christmas lights! This is so beautiful! I suppose we could walk around a bit, to look at the lights.'

'Wow!' breathed Alex, with amazement. 'It looks like every single house has lights up. Yeah, we could walk around and admire the decorations. Where are we going to eat and sleep, though? Anyway, we can't stay here forever! I would miss my friends and family. I won't be able to earn my college degree, and I won't be able to work at Wall Street. Besides, I'll bet that you and I don't even have any real identities here.'

Just then, Marty and Alex gazed to their right, as they a short thin woman walking up towards them. Marty could swear that the woman had purple skin and yellow hair.

'Hello,' the woman said, cheerfully. 'Are your names Marty McFly and Alex Keaton?' Marty and Alex both gasped, as they were stunned. 'My name is Victoria Greenwood. We were expecting the two of you to come here. Why don't you guys come inside?'

'Yeah, thanks, Mrs. Greenwood,' Alex said, quietly. 'Maybe you could explain to Marty and me what is going on here. Maybe you can tell us a little bit about this world.'

'All in good time,' replied the woman, 'and please just call me Victoria. We have a lot of sugar cookies inside, and I could make you guys some hot cocoa, too. So just come inside and make yourselves feel comfortable.'

Land of Colour

December 24, 1986
7:00 PM PST
Land of Colour Universe

Linda McFly was stunned, as she found herself lying on a carpeted ground. She could not figure out how she got here. She was in her bedroom, sulking over Marty being friendly with her boyfriend. Then, suddenly, this colourful stone she found started to glow brightly - then, the next thing she knew, she was no longer in her bedroom on her bed. Perhaps this was all a dream. This was the most logical explanation for this.

'Hey, uh, hello,' stammered a girl who was lying next to Linda. 'Who are you? Where am I? Maybe you can tell me how I got here? I was in my bedroom trying to take a rest, then I ended up here! Maybe it has something to do with the stone that I found.'

'That's exactly what happened with me!' exclaimed Linda. 'My name is Linda McFly. I was so angry with my brother. I can't believe that my brother could be so insensitive to me! Kevin is my boyfriend. I don't like my brother being buddies with him.'

'Yeah, brothers!' the brunette said, rolling her eyes. 'Believe me, Linda, I can tell you all about annoying and insensitive brothers! My own brother is down on me because I want to take up wrestling. He won't admit it, but he thinks wrestling is a man's sport - and he doesn't want me to take up wrestling. Anyway, my name is Mallory Keaton.'

'Your name's Mallory Keaton?' Linda asked, stunned. There was something about that name that seemed so familiar to her. 'We'll let's try to get acquainted with this place.'

'Yeah, that's a good idea,' suggested Mallory. 'By the way, did you say your name is Linda McFly? You know, your name sounds a bit familiar to me. Have we met before?'

'Your name sounds a bit familiar to me, too,' Linda said, nodding. 'I'm not sure if we ever did meet, though. So where did you come from? I live in Hill Valley, California.'

'Oh, I have never been to California,' replied Mallory. 'I live in a suburb in Columbus, Ohio. I have an older brother named Alex, and a younger sister named Jennifer. We also have a baby in our family, named Andrew. You said you have a brother, right?'

'Actually, I have two brothers,' replied Linda. 'I have an older brother named Dave, and a younger brother named Marty. I guess, deep down inside, I love my brothers. Sometimes I just can't stand Marty, though. Sometimes he acts like he's so hot - just because he looks like this famous actor, Michael J Fox. He's the one who insists on being buddies with my boyfriend, Kevin. Why can't he understand how I feel?'

'I have the same problem with Alex,' Mallory said, nodding. 'He also looks a lot like the actor, Michael J Fox - who, by the way, I think is so overrated. Granted, he can be very supportive and caring at times - and I do love him. Other times, though, he can be so down on my choice of interests. He can be quite a bit arrogant at times.'

'Well, enough about annoying brothers,' Linda said, sighing. 'Let's take a look around, and see if we can make sense of what's going on around here. Not that any of this is making much sense to me. Hey, Mallory, pinch me! I wonder if this is some dream!'

'I almost think this has to be a dream!' Mallory agreed. 'I mean, it sure doesn't make sense to me that a stone could form some portal that leads into another dimension.'

'Well, my father writes science fiction stories,' explained Linda, 'and he claims that an alien named Darth Vadar came to visit him from a planet called Vulcan - and that the alien threatened to melt his brain, if he didn't ask my mother out to the Fish Under The Sea Dance. I can't say that I ever believed that, though. There is science fiction - and then there is reality, you know. I think Dad sometimes gets the two confused.'

'Actually,' Mallory said, quietly, 'the idea of a stone creating a portal to another world is more fantasy than science fiction. I guess, for some reason, we're both dreaming.'

Just then, a short teenage girl with pink skin and yellow hair walked towards them.

'Well, where did you girls come from?' the pink girl asked. 'Why don't you girls come join in the fun? The dance will be starting shortly, and we have lots of refreshments.'

'Uh, well,' Linda stammered, 'it's nice of you to offer, but I don't have any money.'

'Oh, that's all right,' the pink girl said, smiling. 'By the way, my name is Rose. I don't believe I've ever seen you girls around before. You girls must be new around here.'

'Yeah, I guess you could say that,' replied Mallory. 'Anyway, it's so nice to meet you, Rose. My name is Mallory Keaton - and this is Linda McFly. Thanks for inviting us!'

'Yeah, thank you so much, Rose,' added Linda, smiling. 'It's so nice to meet you, as well. Do you think you could maybe show us around, after the dance? We would like to explore this place a little more, you know. This seems like a nice place, you know.'

'Oh, sure!' replied Rose. 'That won't be a problem at all. In fact, I'm pretty sure that my folks won't mind - if you spend the night with us. Let's head to the dance room!'

Linda glanced from Rose to Mallory, and back to Rose. She and Mallory then followed Rose to the dance floor. As soon as they had entered the dance floor, Linda was so astonished by what she saw. She did see people there of the usual races. She saw a bunch of people there that were different colours of the rainbow, too. It was almost as if she had stepped into the set of Sesame Street. She saw a few colourful furry muppets lingering around, as well. Linda began to decide that this must be a dream.

'Hey, are you girls feeling all right?' Rose asked, concerned. 'What are you gawking at?'

'Oh, uh, I'm sorry,' stammered Linda. 'I was just looking at the beautiful Christmas decorations that you have in here. I just think the lights are so pretty, you know!'

'Oh, that's perfectly all right,' Rose said, with a warm smile. 'I was just worried that something was out of place here. Just help yourselves to some juice and snacks. We have plenty of them go around. Later on, we'll be having pizza. Do you like pizza?'

'Oh, absolutely!' gushed Mallory. 'Is there going to be any veggie pizza? I'm not too much for sausage or pepperoni. I also don't care for just plain cheese. It's boring!'

'Yeah, I like veggie pizza, too,' agreed Linda. 'Of course, if it's not available, then I'll just make do with what we have. Hey, this is pretty nice music you have in here!'

'Aw, yeah, this should get you into the Christmas spirit!' gushed Rose. 'Yeah, we'll have all kinds of pizza here, to appeal to all kinds of tastes. Then, after the pizza, we will have ice cream. We will have ice cream that comes in all flavours, you know.'

'Oh, that sounds awesome!' gushed Linda. 'Well, thanks again for inviting us. It looks like we'll be having so much fun tonight, you know. Everything around here is lovely!'

'Hey, that's not a problem at all!' Rose said, smiling. 'The more the merrier, you know.'

One Happy Family

December 24, 1986
7:30 PM PST
Land of Colour Universe

Marty was feeling a little nervous, as he slowly followed Victoria into the house. How had she known his name? Was she the one behind the fact that he and Alex ended up in this world? As soon as he entered the house, though - the delicious scents of cinnamon and spice put him at ease. This place couldn't be too bad, Marty thought.

'Hey, boys,' called out Victoria, as she put her arms around a man with blue skin and red hair, 'I would like you to meet my husband, Todd.' Then, as four small girls came up to her, Victoria added, 'These are our four daughters. Our oldest child is named August. These are May and June - and our youngest one is April. Go ahead and help yourselves to some sugar cookies. Go ahead and make yourselves feel at home.'

'So, Victoria or Todd,' Marty said, with a sigh. 'Don't get the wrong idea. I think this is a nice place and all - but can you tell us why we're here? I think our own families will miss us. I mean, I may be 18 now, but I still like to spend Christmas with my family.'

'Same with me,' Alex said, nodding. 'I initially wanted to go to Princeton College - but I'm glad I picked a college closer to home. Mallory and I may not always get along - but she is my sister, and I do love her. I'm just a little concerned for her right now.'

'You boys needn't worry,' Victoria said, smiling. 'When you boys return to your world, you will return to the moment that you left. So just relax and enjoy yourselves. You are both very fine young men, and you both deserve to have a little fun. So how do you fellows enjoy being in our world so far? This is a pretty nice place to be, isn't it?'

'Oh, absolutely!' gushed Marty. 'Of course, alternate realities is really nothing new to me. My friend, Dr. Emmett Brown, had created a time machine out of a DeLorean - so I have taken many trips through the fourth dimension. Some of them were quite a bit unpleasent - like in the world where Biff Tannen was very rich and very corrupt.'

'I guess you would already know this,' Alex added, 'but Marty and I have come from two different universes. He came into our universe not long ago, when his DeLorean time machine had malfunctioned. It's so amazing to think of all the things we have in common - and all the things we don't have in common. What's amazing is that we're considered fictional characters in each other's world - and our characters are played by an actor named Michael J Fox. The one real ironic thing is, I never even met him.'

'I never met him, either,' Marty said, nodding, 'although I must say that he is one of my favourite actors. It's not just because I look like him, either. He is a great actor.'

'Another ironic thing is,' Alex added, 'is that I happen to be a big fan of US President Ronald Reagan - while, in Marty's world, President Reagan is a big fan of me, even if I am just considered a fictional character there. So who is the US president here?'

'Robert Redding is the president of our country,' Todd said, as he lifted up a framed photograph of a red man with orange hair. 'I must say, he is a very good leader.'

'So where are we, anyway?' asked Marty. 'I mean, what city, state or province, and country are we in. This world seems a little like ours - but it's also a little different.'

'This is the city of Orangeville,' explained Victoria, 'in the state of California, here in the United States of America. We actually live about fifty miles south of Los Angeles.'

'So where did you people come from, anyway, if you don't mind me asking?' asked Alex. 'I mean, in our world, we only see colourful people in children's programs like Sesame Street. I guess the reason why I'm asking, is because I'm a big history buff.'

'We came here from a planet called Juniper,' explained Todd. 'It's not to be confused with Jupiter from this solar system. It's located way on the other side of the galaxy.'

'We arrived on this planet back in 1885,' explained Victoria. 'Our ancestors were so shocked by how racism had been so rampant in the Southern States, among other areas. Coming from a colourful world ourselves, it just never made sense to us that people would be judged and treated differently just because their skin was a different colour. In addition to racism, we were also disgusted by how wars and poverty was so rampant in this world. However, being the optimists that our people are, we saw that there were lots od kind-hearted and decent people in this world - many of whom were, unfortunately, victims of the not-so-decent people. So that's why we stayed.'

'So are you saying that there is now global peace and harmony in this world?' asked Alex. 'If so, maybe you guys could come to our world next - and fix everything up.'

'Well, actually,' Victoria said, quietly, 'inter-dimensional travel is not the same thing as travel through physical space. I mean, we are able to create wormholes so that we can easily travel between Earth and Juniper. However, there are many risks that can come from inter-dimensional travel. Most people in this world don't know about other dimensions - and it could be very dangerous, if they did. We must take certain precautions, to avoid creating rips in the space-time continuum. Know what I mean?'

'Yeah, I understand,' replied Marty. 'I know Doc is always lecturing me about how we must be careful, when we're travelling through time. Some time travel stories that I read don't deal with time paradoxes - but, the reality is, it can be possible to create a time paradox. I remember how I was nearly erased from existence, the first time I travelled through time, and ended up being stuck in 1955. I accidentally interfered with my parents' first meeting - so I had to spend the whole week getting them to fall in love with each other. That has to be the most stressful week of my life, you know.'

'Yeah, I understand what you're saying,' Victoria said, nodding. 'There are different risks, though, that can go with interdimensional travel. So that's why we cannot come to your world and try to fix everything for you - as much we'd really want to do so.'

'Well, I just thought I would ask,' Alex said, smiling. 'I must say it's so nice spending time here. Your children look so adorable. Maybe, tomorrow, you guys could show us around town. It would be so nice to see how this world compares to ours, you know.'

'That won't be a problem at all,' replied Todd. 'Say, why don't we come into the living room and light up some scented candles. We have some soft and comfy bean bag chairs there for you to sit on. Then I could put on some nice Christmas music for us.'

'That sounds awesome, Todd!' replied Marty. 'I almost would like to move here - but, then again, I would miss all my family and friends. I really have a life there to live.'

'I totally concur,' agreed Alex. 'Sometimes my family does drive me crazy, but I sure wouldn't trade them in for any other family. I love everyone in my family so dearly.'

'Yeah, family is very important,' Victoria said, smiling. 'There is nothing like spending the holidays at home with your dearly beloved family. Our daughters may not always get along - but they do love each other. They would defend each other, whenever it's necessary. Most of the time, though, our little girls can be so sweet and charming.'

Marty and Alex looked at each other, as they were concerned for their own sisters.

Love Is In The Air

December 24, 1986
8:30 PM PST
Land of Colour Universe

Mallory was walking around and admiring all the Christmas decorations that adorned the walls, as she tried to take her mind that the fact that she might be trapped in this strange world. She thought of how she might miss everyone in her family, including Alex. She had to admit that she did look up to her big brother, and that she did often turn to him for support. Still, he could sometimes be so down on her for her interests and hobbies. Just then, she was approached by a tall boy with blue skin and red hair.

'Hello,' the boy said, huskily. 'Are you new around here? My name is Robert Thomas.'

'Hello, Robert,' Mallory said, smiling. 'It is nice to meet you. Yeah, I guess I'm pretty new around here. My name is Mallory Keaton. I was admiring these pretty Christmas decorations. The pizza and juice is really delicious, too. Everything here is awesome!'

'I'm so glad you're really enjoying yourself, Mallory,' Robert said, smiling, as put his hands on Mallory's shoulders. 'I was wondering if you would like to dance with me for awhile. I think you're a very sexy girl. Is Santa bringing you anything for Christmas?'

'Well, Robert,' Mallory purred, 'I would like some new cassettes for Christmas. I love rock music a lot. Can you believe that my brother doesn't like rock music? I really do not understand how anyone can not like rock music. The music really pumps me up!'

'Well, different people have different tastes,' Robert said, gently. 'Could you imagine how boring this world would be, if we all like the same things? Variety is the spice of life, you know. My twin brother, Jimmy, and I are very close - but we don't agree on everything all the time. Like, for instance, I prefer football - while he prefers hockey.'

'I see,' Mallory said, smiling. 'So what is it like having a twin? I sometimes wish I had a twin, you know. My brother, Alex, is two years older than me - and we don't always get along. He can sometimes be a bit arrogant about his intelligence, which bugs me.'

'Yeah, I can imagine that it would be pretty annoying,' Robert said, sympathetically. 'Actually, Jimmy and I don't really look alike - but we're usually pretty close friends.'

'In all fairness, though,' Mallory said, sighing, 'he does have a pretty big heart. Still, I sometimes worry that he might be too obsessed with money. Could you imagine that he has big dreams to work at Wall Street someday. Also, his favourite show to watch on TV is Wall Street Week, believe it or not. I guess I shouldn't be so critical of him - but I sometimes wonder if we're even from the same planet, let alone from the same family. Well, all things considered, I'll always love him. Blood is thicker than water.'

'You know,' Robert said, laughing, 'I sometimes feel that way about my own family. I don't always understand them, either - but I guess it's just a part of life. At any rate, it's like what I said before. Variety is the spice of life - and all of us have our quirks.'

'So what are your plans for Christmas?' Mallory asked, changing the subject. 'Do you and your family have special plans? What is your favourite part about the season?'

'I think I would say spending time with the family,' replied Robert. 'I also like looking at all the pretty Christmas decorations - and, of course, the presents are nice, too.'

'Yeah, I think we all like to receive presents,' Mallory said, laughing. 'I would have to say that I like the family togetherness the most, though. It's the nice warm feeling.'

'I dunno about you,' Robert said, huskily, 'but our home always smells really nice on Christmas Day. There's nothing quite like the smell of cinnamon and spice, y'know.'

Mallory smiled, as she could relate. She then began to worry if she would ever make it back home again. Then she realized there were many worse places she could be.

oooooooooo

Linda began to wonder if she maybe was a bit hard on her brother. Was it really that big of a deal if her brother was buddies with her boyfriend? After all, it was probably better than if they were enemies and disliked each other. As nice as this place was, she began to miss her friends and family back home. After all, where was she going to stay here? Just then, she saw a tall boy with green skin and red hair approach her.

'Are you new around here?' the boy asked, huskily. 'My name is Jimmy Thomas, and I was just wondering if you wanted to dance with me. So are you enjoying yourself?'

'Hello, Jimmy,' Linda purred, as she realized the boy was so cute. 'My name is Linda McFly - and, yeah, I'm pretty new around here. Y'know, the food and music is really nice - and the decoratiions are so pretty, too. Are you looking forward for tomorrow?'

'Oh, most definitely!' gushed Jimmy. 'It's the one time of year that I get up early. It's nice being able to get together with the family, and the food is really scrumptious! It is my absolute favourite holiday of all time! I wish it could be Christmas all the time!'

'Well, if it was Christmas all the time,' Linda said, smiling, 'then Christmas would not be very special, would it? Yeah, I really do enjoy getting together with the family for Christmas. My mother makes very delicious fruit soup, you know. It's my favourite!'

'So, do you have any brothers or sisters?' asked Jimmy, softly. 'I have a twin brother named Robert, and I have a younger sister named Rose. I would say that I get along with them most of the time. We do tend to have our disagreements at times, though.'

'I actually have two brothers,' replied Linda. 'I have an older brother is named Dave, and I have a younger brother named Marty. I guess we do get along more often than not, but they sometimes really irritate me. Deep down inside, I really do love them.'

'Well, you know how the old adage goes,' Jimmy said, huskily. 'Blood is thicker than water. Sometimes our siblings might do things to really irritate us - but, deep down inside, we always will love them. Anyway, it is important to really value your family.'

'Yeah, you're right,' Linda purred, as she rested her head on Jimmy's shoulder. She then felt a pang of guilt, as she realized she might be cheating on Kevin. At any rate, she had gotten so mad at Marty for being buddies with Kevin. Just then, she began to wonder if she would ever see Kevin again. She still wasn't sure how she got here, or if she would ever go home again. Maybe this was just a dream, and she would soon wake up and find herself back in her bedroom. She tried to relax and enjoy herself.

'Are you feeling all right, Linda?' Jimmy asked, with concern. 'Let's see if they have some ice cream, now, shall we? I am in the mood for something nice and creamy.'

'That's a good idea,' agreed Linda. 'I wonder if they have chip and mint ice cream. It is my favourite flavour, you know. I could really eat a heaping bowl of it, you know.'

'I prefer chocolate chip cookie dough,' replied Jimmy. 'I also like eating plain cookie dough, you know. I must say I like them better than the actual cookies. I could eat lots of dough, you know. Well, anyway, let's check out all the flavours of ice cream.'

'Gee, now you're making me so hungry,' purred Linda. 'Well, well might as well go.'

Innocence of Childhood

December 25, 1986
8:30 AM PST
Land of Colour Universe

'Hey, wake up, you sleepyheads!' a small pink girl with purple curls called out. She appeared to be about five years old. 'It's Christmas, and Mommy wants to take us out for breakfast. You should try out the fruit soup at Larry's Diner. It's so delicious!'

'Okay, uh, I'm getting up,' mumbled Marty, as he stretched his arms. Then, after he sat up, he added, 'I'm still a bit tired, but I love fruit soup. My mother makes it, too.'

'I'm getting up, too,' mumbled Alex. 'I'll have to try some fruit soup. It sounds good!'

'It's very delicious!' assured the little girl. 'Hurry up and get dressed, so we can go!'

'Are they getting up, April?' asked another pink girl, as she walked into the room with a purple girl. Then, turning to Marty and Alex, she asked, 'Why do you sleep so late?'

'It's because we don't have the same stamina as you little ones do,' replied Marty.

'What does stamina mean?' asked the purple girl. 'Come on! It's Christmas morning!'

'Yeah, rise and shine!' insisted April. 'Don't you want to open your presents, too?'

'Come on, April and June,' prodded the purple girl. 'Let's let these guys get dressed.'

Marty watched, as the three little girls left the bedroom. Then he searched for some clothes to wear. He then felt somewhat bad that he hadn't bought any presents for the kids. Marty then felt a pang of nostalgia, as he found himself wishing he could be a kid again. The life of being a kid seemed quite simple, without being under so much stress. He then realized the irony of how so many kids - even himself - couldn't wait to grow up. It like you don't realize what you have, until it's gone. Marty then sighed.

'Are you feeling all right, Marty?' Alex asked, concerned. 'You seem to have a lot on your mind, like you're worried about something. It's Christmas morning! You should be feeling cheerful! Would you like to talk to me about what's troubling you, Marty?'

'Uh, okay, sure,' Marty said, sighing, as he sat down on the bed. 'I guess I just find myself missing my childhood. I wasn't as much under stress back when I was a kid.'

'Why are you feeling so stressed, Marty?' Alex asked, as he sat on the bed and put his arm around Marty's shoulder. 'Is it maybe all the time travelling you've done?'

'Well, that's part of it,' replied Marty. 'I don't want to offend you, since I know you're a bit passionate about politics - but thinking about political tensions tends to stress me out a bit. It's sad to think about all the wars that are going on in the Middle East.'

'No offence is taken, Marty,' Alex said, softly. 'In an ideal world, everyone would be making at least 500,000 dollars a year. We would not have to deal with poverty in certain parts of the world. I also am no big fan of war, but sometimes wars do have to be fought to fight against the injustice. Like, take World War Two, for example. It was a very awful time in history. Adolf Hitler was a very evil man, and we needed to intervene - because all those poor Jews and other types of people Hitler hated were being tortured. Have you ever read Anne Frank's Diary? I must have cried buckets over that book. She had so much hope and joy in her, then her life was taken away.'

'Oh, please, Alex,' Marty said, sniffing a little bit. 'You're going to make me cry. It's Christmas! It's like what you told me just a little while ago. We should be cheerful.'

'I'm so sorry, Marty,' Alex said, softly, as he used his index finger to wipe a tear that rolled down Marty's cheek. 'I guess I am just explaining to you why it is important to think pragmatically. Some people call me pessimistic, but I don't try to be that way. I would want nothing less than to have global peace and harmony. However, in order to acheive that, it requires that one thinks pragmatically. I wish that others would see where I'm coming from. We need to take action to fight against the evil in the world.'

'I see what you're saying, Alex,' Marty said, softly. 'Being politically moderate myself, I try to understand both sides of the political spectrum. I agree with you that we do need to take action to fix what is wrong in the world. We can't just sit back and hope that everything will change by itself. Anyway, you would make a very role model to represent the conservative side. You are a very thoughtful person, and that's good.'

'Thanks so much, Marty!' Alex said, as he gently squeezed Marty's shoulder. 'I think it's important to be politically informed, and it would be nice if more of our generation cared about politics. One day, it will be up to us to make a difference in the world.'

'Well, you're right, Alex,' Marty said. 'Still, sometimes I wish I could be a kid again.'

'Yeah, well, we all have to grow up,' Alex said, gently. 'My sister, Jennifer, just wants to be a kid - and I sometimes worry about her. Well, anyway, let's go into the living room. It is Christmas, and we should be cheerful. So are you feeling better, now?'

'Yeah, Alex, thanks,' replied Marty, as he hugged Alex. 'You're such a good buddy!'

oooooooooo

Marty was feeling cheerful later on, when he and Alex had stepped into Larry's Diner with the Greenwood family. The restaurant had a sweet and festive smell, while the walls were adorned with Christmas decorations. The speakers were also pumping out traditional Christmas music. Oh Little Town of Bethlehem was currently being played.

'Now this is what I call real Christmas music,' exclaimed Alex. 'Not this Nat King Cole or Bing Crosby crap! Screw songs like Chestnuts Roasting On An Open Fire!'

'I agree with you, Alex,' Marty said, nodding. 'This is my idea of Christmas music, too - Christmas carols sung by a choir and played by an orchestra. This is festive music!'

'Wow!' exclaimed Alex, smiling. 'You actually agree with me! You know, this seems to be one of the very few things that my whole family can agree on! Maybe it's because this is such a festive time of year. Usually, Mallory and I tend to fight over music!'

'How would you guys like to sit here?' suggested Victoria. 'Here we can look out the window, and look at all this beautiful scenery. Look at all these gorgeous flowers!'

'Oh, yes!' gushed Alex. 'These are beautiful! Maybe we can pick some of them later!'

'Oh, I didn't bring any flower pots along,' Victoria said, apologetically. 'One rule we have in our family, is that we don't pull up flowers. We dig them up by the roots and put them into a flower pot. That way, we don't kill them! We should respect nature!'

'You're absolutely right, Victoria!' exclaimed Marty. 'I guess I've never really thought about that before. It is pretty hypocritical to gush over a pretty flower - only to pluck it out and kill it. Just imagine if we treated people of the opposite gender that way!'

'My parents feel the same way, too,' explained Alex. 'I have to agree that it is being disrespectful to nature to kill the precious creations. Many just don't get it, however.'

'I guess you guys have a very good point,' replied Marty. He then looked at who was sitting a few tables over, and he was shocked by the sight he saw. 'Linda? My sister?'

'Wait a minute!' Alex said, stunned. 'That looks like Mallory over there! How did she get into this world?' Turning to Victoria, he added, 'You've brought our sisters here?'

'Yeah, I did,' Victoria said, quietly. 'I wanted them to appreciate the value of family. I knew they were angry with you guys, and I thought I should teach them a lesson.'

'Oh, poor Mallory!' Alex said, quietly. 'She must have been frightened to find herself so far away from home - but it's amazing she ended up together with Marty's sister.'

'Oh, gee, what are we going to say to Linda?' asked Marty. 'She doesn't know about Doc's time machine - and I'd prefer if she didn't know about it. What shall we say?'

'Well, we didn't get here through Doc's time machine,' commented Alex. 'Maybe we could find a way to convince our sisters that this is all a dream. What do you say?'

'I have no objections to the idea,' responded Marty. 'We really do not want them to worry, though. They'll be wanting explanations, and we can't exactly them that they are just dreaming. Maybe we will think of something. Well, at least they seem fine!'

Family Matters

December 25, 1986
10:30 AM PST
Land of Colour Universe

Linda couldn't believe her eyes, as she glanced a few tables over. It looked like there were two Martys sitting at that table. Linda nearly fainted from shock. It was surreal!

'Gee, do you see that, Linda?' whispered Mallory, stunned. 'It looks like there are two Alexes sitting over there! You know, I'm not sure if this is a coincidence or not. There is something rather unsettling about this, though. Why on earth would we be warped into this strange world, with two people who happen to look exactly like my brother? This is giving me the creeps! Maybe this is just a really freaky dream we're having!'

'I think you mean two Martys,' replied Linda, quietly. 'Wait a minute! Didn't we both say that our brothers looked like Michael J Fox? Maybe it could be both our brothers!'

'But how could this be possible?' Mallory asked, shocked. 'Maybe someone really has a thing for our brothers - and, somehow, we ended up being dragged into this. I am beginning to really resent my brother! I wonder if they brought Michael J Fox into this world, too? This is unreal! Maybe I've been knocked out unconscious or something.'

'That would certainly explain why we both cannot wake up,' Linda said, sighing. 'Oh, here come Rose and her brothers. We should not be talking about this around them.'

'How are the two of you doing?' Rose asked, as she joined them at the table. 'Would you girls like some pancakes with strawberries and whipped cream? They serve very delicious pancakes at this restaurant. They have very delicious orange juice, as well.'

'Oh, I really love pancakes!' gushed Linda. 'You really ought to try the pancakes that my mother makes. She makes them right from scratch, and they're very delicious!'

'So, where do you girls come from,' asked Rose, 'if you don't mind me asking you.'

'Well, I come from a suburb in Columbus, Ohio,' replied Mallory. 'It's a nice city, but I would much rather live in California. The winters are so much warmer here, after all.'

'I come from Hill Valley,' added Linda, figuring that it wouldn't hurt to be honest. 'It is in the northern part of the state. I like it better here in the southern part of the state.'

'Well, we came here from Wisconsin,' said Robert, 'and I really miss having snow for Christmas. I guess there's just something about snow that makes Christmas festive.'

'Well, the people in Australia have Christmas at the beginning of summer,' remarked Linda. 'I wonder if they do the Santa Claus thing in the land down under. Perhaps, in Australia, Santa Claus is thinner - and Santa wears swimming trucks and carries the presents on a flying raft pulled by thirteen swans. Would that seem a bit plausable?'

'Well, we have some friends who live in Australia,' explained Jimmy, 'and we can tell you that they don't have their own version of Santa Claus. I suppose growing up with snow has sort od spoiled me a little bit. They would, no doubt, be shocked that songs like Sleigh Ride and Winter Wonderland are considered Christmas songs. Those two songs really do make no references to Christmas, if you have ever really noticed.'

'I cannot say that I ever really cared for those songs,' said Mallory, sighing. 'To me, real Christmas songs are songs like Silent Night and Joy To The World. Those are the songs that convey the true meaning of Christmas. The holiday's not all about winter!'

'Well, I guess you have a point,' replied Robert. 'Although, I have an appreciation for all kinds of Christmas music. I know many might disagree with me, but I'm always in the mood for Christmas music. It really creates the warm festive feeling, you know.'

'One song I have always hated is Have Yourself A Merry Little Christmas,' remarked Linda. 'To me, that song has such a depressing melody. It is not a Christmas-y song!'

'I totally agree agree with you, Linda,' chimed in Mallory. 'Whoever wrote that stupid song should either get his ass kicked or be given a very good slap upside the head!'

'Now don't you think that's a little harsh, Mallory?' chided Robert. 'I personally am not too fond of that song myself, but we all do have our personal preferences. I bet I am one of the very few people around who likes Grandma Got Run Over By A Reindeer.'

'But that's such a stupid song!' groaned Linda. 'It's a bit morbid, too - I must say. The song is totally inappropriate for the joyful season. I actually cried when I first heard that song, because I didn't want to think about Grandma Stella meeting such a fate!'

'I know that is what everyone else says,' Robert said, sighing. 'I love my grandma a lot, too - but I just take this song in the humour that it was intended for, you know.'

'I am sorry,' protested Mallory, a bit loudly, 'but I see nothing at all funny about poor grandma being run over by a reindeer! That has got to be one of the sickest songs I have ever heard of! I would so like to beat the crap out of whoever wrote that song!'

'Okay, Mallory,' Robert said, sighing, 'Forget that I ever brought that up. Let's just try to calm down now, and get ready to order our food. Enjoy the pretty music, all right?'

'I'm sorry, Robert,' whispered Mallory. 'I'm not mad at you or anything. It's just that the song makes me feel real angry. Anyway, the music in here is certainly beautiful!'

'I'm sure we all can agree on this,' said Linda, smiling. 'They really do have this place decorated up nicely. I must say that I also enjoy the scents of cinnamon and spice.'

oooooooooo

'I'm wondering if we should come up to them and say hi,' suggested Alex. 'It appears that they recognize us. They must be so shocked to see that Marty and I look alike.'

'Fortunately, Linda does not watch Family Ties,' replied Marty, 'so she maybe would not recognize your name. This is going to be the very last thing she needs right now.'

'Mallory believes Back to the Future is a stupid movie,' added Alex. 'Still, the problem is, McFly is not exactly a common name in our world. In fact, I am not sure if it even is a real name in our world. Maybe Robert Zemeckis and Bob Gale, who are the ones who write the screenplay for the movie, have even made up that name. I understand this is probably going to give you a great shock, but I have a hunch that is the case.'

'I do not believe this,' Marty gasped, stunned. 'I remember that your mother did say that she wasn't sure McFly was even a real last name, but I can't believe that my last name was made up by two people in your world. I think I am going to go into shock!'

'Just take a deep breath,' urged Alex, 'and try to relax. I was just trying to explain to you why Mallory might suspect that you're from a movie. Everything will be all right.'

'I always took such pride in my last name,' Marty said, quietly, 'even when, in the old timeline, Strickland would cruelly insist that no McFly would ever amount to anything.'

'I am so sorry, Marty,' Alex said, gently. 'You could still take pride in your last name, though. I thought Strickland was a pretty nasty guy. Just try not to sweat it so much!'

'Yeah, you are right, Alex,' replied Marty, sighing. 'It is just that Keaton is still a real name in our world. It is not like Gary David Goldberg just made up that last name.'

'Are you two going to be all right?' Victoria asked, concerned. 'You should maybe not talk about that anymore. We really don't want to have anyone going into shock here.'

'You are so right, Victoria,' replied Alex. 'We should just enjoy our fruit soup and the music that is pumped over the speakers. I think we should go over and talk with our sisters, though. We don't want them to be worried sick that they might be stranded.'

'How about after we're done eating,' suggested Victoria. 'Those people they're eating with do not know anything about our powers, and it is better that they don't find out.'

'I totally understand,' replied Marty. 'Well, thank you for taking us out to eat. This is such a nice treat. I must say, it's really awesome spending Christmas with you guys.'

'Yeah, thank you!' added Alex. 'As long as you promise us that we're in our world for Christmas, too - this is really lovely. I really could use this vacation - and I am sure Marty could, as well. This morning, he told me that he was feeling real stressed out.'

'Oh, Marty, you really should relax,' Victoria said, soothingly. 'I want you to get rid of everything that is troubling you out of your mind, and just throw it away. We brought you two here as a Christmas present. We figured you two might really enjoy it here.'

'Oh, I love it here!' gushed Marty. 'Thank you so much for thinking about us. The kids are all so adorable, and you guys are such wonderful people! This is like paradise!'

Comfort and Joy

December 25, 1986
11:00 AM PST
Land of Colour Universe

Alex was feeling a bit nervous, as he and Marty walked over to the table where their sisters were sitting. He hadn't meant to hurt his sister's feelings. He was just worried that she might end up being injured, as he figured that men often had a tendancy to be violent in that sport - and his sister was not exactly the strongest woman around.

'Hey, Mallory?' Alex asked, a bit nervously. 'It's me, Alex. Why don't you come with us? Everything will be fine, and the family we're staying with are wonderful people!'

'Are you sure?' Mallory asked, nervously. 'Do you know how we got here? I have to admit that I'm scared. This is a nice place, don't get me wrong. Still, this isn't home.'

'Hey, who are you men?' asked a pink woman, as she came to the table. 'I must say, you two really do look alike. Are you twins? You guys certainly are very handsome!'

'Uh, no,' replied Alex. 'We're actually more like cousins. Mallory is my younger sister, and Linda is Marty's older sister. It might be hard to believe, but I am actually three years older than Marty. Victoria and Todd Greenwood invited us to spend Christmas with their family, and they wanted Mallory and Linda to join us. So we should maybe get going pretty soon. Maybe we could come over to visit you folks later on tonight.'

'It's such a pleasure to meet you, Alex and Marty!' the pink woman said, warmly. 'My name is Rose Thomas - and these are my brothers, Robert and Jimmy. We met your sisters at the Christmas Dance, last night. They've told us a little bit about you folks.'

'We'll see you a little later,' Linda said, warmly. 'You've all have been really great. I would like to thank you once again for letting us spend the night with you. Thank you for the breakfast, as well. Have a Merry Christmas! Hope you have a wonderful day!'

Linda and Mallory then joined Marty and Alex, as the four of them headed outside of the restaurant. Alex was a bit worried that Mallory would yell at him again. His sister did have a bit of a temper at times. He was very happy to see her here, nonetheless.

'Uh, Alex,' Mallory said, quietly, 'I would like to apologize to you. I'm sorry for yelling at you last night. Maybe you're right, and wrestling really isn't for me. I just thought that I would want to try something a little different. I guess I wanted to impress Ted.'

Alex then threw his arms around his sister, and whispered, 'It's all right, Mal. I wasn't meaning to sound discouraging. It's just that, well, you are my little sister - and I am sometimes worried about you. I know I sometimes give you a hard time about your intelligence, or tease you about your friends. I love you with all of my heart, though.'

'I love you, too, Alex,' Mallory whispered. Then, as tears filled her eyes, she asked, 'Oh, Alex, are we going to be stuck here forever? I know this is a nice place and all, but...' Mallory began to cry, as she continued, 'but I'll really miss my family, and my friends. We don't belong here, Alex! What happened to us? How did we end up here?'

'Everything'll be all right, Mallory,' Alex said, soothingly, as he stroked Mallory's hair. 'Todd and Victoria just sent us here for a nice vacation. They promised us that we'll be back home in time for Christmas. So please don't fret, Mallory. We'll be all right!'

'Are you sure about that, Alex?' Mallory asked, worriedly. 'How do we know we can trust them? What if they sent us here, so that they can eat us for dinner? What if...'

'Just trust me, Mallory,' Alex said, softly. 'I have a good judgement of character, and they strike me as very trustworthy folks. I think you watch too many horror movies.'

'Yeah, maybe I do,' Mallory admitted, as she wiped her eyes. 'Anyway, I must say it is really good to see you here. I guess I'll just try to relax, and enjoy our stay here.'

'Atta girl,' Alex said, smiling. 'Well, let's go join the rest of the family now. They have such adorable kids, even if they can be a bit impatient at times. They are sweeties!'

oooooooooo

Marty had some mixed feelings about seeing his sister here. Despite the arguements that they might have at times, he really did love his sister. Still, he was worried that she might yell at him some more about being buddies with her boyfriend. Marty could not understand why that was such a big deal to her. He was so scared to face Linda.

'Hey, Marty,' Linda said, a bit nervously. 'I am sorry about the fight we had last night. You're right! I was being very unreasonable, and I didn't mean to hurt your feelings. I guess I was being pretty self-centred, wasn't I? I hope you aren't too mad at me.'

'Naa, I'm not mad at you,' Marty said, smiling a bit. 'I must say that my feelings were hurt quite a bit, but I do forgive you. I mean, nobody is perfect. Listen, Linda, I know you and I may fight from time to time - but I always will love you. I mean, you have come through for me on a few occassions - and I greatly do appreciate it, you know.'

'Aw, that's sweet of you to say, Marty,' gushed Linda, as she threw her arms around her brother. 'It may not always seem that way - but I really love you, too, Marty. In fact, you really have encouraged me on many occassions. I mean, there have been times that I was down on myself - and you were there to encourage me. I think that my life may have been very different, if it wasn't for you. I really do mean it, Marty!'

Marty bit back a smile at the irony of his sister's words. Instead, he gave his sister a tender squeeze and stroked her hair a bit. It was so nice to see his sister here, too.

'I don't know where we are, Marty,' Linda continued, 'or how we got here. Either way, though, I'm really happy to see you here. Do you think we'll ever make it back home again? This seems like a lovely place, but I would really miss my family and friends.'

'Don't worry, Linda,' Marty said, softly. 'Todd and Victoria are very nice folks, and we were sent here to enjoy a nice vacation. They'll send us back home, eventually. The kids are all so wonderful, too. I hope to have kids like that someday, myself. So why don't we go join the rest of the family, now? You should see how nice their home is.'

'It sounds wonderful, Marty!' gushed Linda. 'Anyway, I'm so glad you are not mad at me about the fight we had yesterday. I feel bad about it, now! That was very wrong!'

'Try not to sweat it, Linda,' Marty said, as he gently squeezed Linda's shoulder. 'We'll let bygones be bygones! After all, this is Christmas Day - and we should be cheerful!'

Joy to the World

December 25, 1986
12:00 PM PST
Land of Colour Universe

Linda was feeling somewhat apprehensive, as she was riding home with her brother, the Keatons, and the Greenwood family. Despite the fact that she did not always get along with her brothers, she always valued family time. She was also missing her big brother, Dave, as well as her parents. She couldn't, for the life of her, figure out why the name Mallory Keaton sounded familiar to her - as did the name Alex Keaton. She was stunned to discover that Alex Keaton looked exactly like her brother, Marty. Still, she was quite certain that they weren't related - or else, if they were, then they were very distantly related. She had to admit that this world was a rather nice place to be.

'All right, everyone!' called out Todd. 'We are home, now! Later on, our relatives will be stopping over for Christmas dinner. Then we can open up our presents. So, Linda and Mallory, just make yourselves feel right at home. I'm sure your brothers will be happy to show you around. Feel free to help yourselves to the Christmas snacks, but see to it that you don't eat too much. You'll want to save room for dinner later today.'

'Thank you so much for inviting us over, Todd and Victoria,' Linda gushed, as soon as she entered the house. 'This house really looks nice and festive! It smells so nice, as well! I must say that your children are so adorable! I hope to have children like that!'

'I'm glad you enjoy being here,' Victoria said, warmly. Then, turning to her children, she added, 'Why don't you kids entertain our guests, and make them feel welcome?'

'Sure, Mom,' replied the oldest girl, August. Then she said to the four visitors, 'Would you guys like to go outside and play Helicopter, Helicopter, Over My Head? It's a fun game to play. You mention what you're thinking about, then you spell out the word.'

'Oh, cool, I'm sure I remember that game,' Marty said, smiling. 'Would you like to go first, August? I haven't played the game in ages, so I need my mind to be refreshed.'

'Oh, sure,' gushed August, as she grabbed the skipping rope. 'Stand back, everyone!' Then, after everyone stood back, she was swinging the rope over her head, as she called out, 'Helicopter, Helicopter, Over my head! I'm thinking of a colour, and the colour is orange.' Then she lowered the rope to the ground, and she spelled out the word. Then Alex was next one to go.

'All right, everyone,' called out Alex, as she took the skipping rope from August and swung it over his head. 'Helicopter, Helicopter, Over my head! I'm thinking of a US President, and the US President is Richard Nixon.' Then Alex lowered the rope to the ground, as he spelled out the name. Marty was then the next one to go.

'Helicopter, Helicopter, Over my head!' called out Marty. 'I'm thinking of a rock band, and the rock band is Huey Lewis and The News.' Marty then lowered the rope to the ground, as he spelled out the band's name. Then April was the next in line to go.

'Wow, you picked a long word, Marty!' April said, impressed. 'Helicopter, Helicopter, Over my head! I'm thinking of a shape, and the shape is a circle.' April then lowered the rope to the ground, as she correctly spelled out the word of a shape.

'You are a very smart girl!' Linda said, impressed, as she grabbed the rope. 'All right, here we go! Helicopter, Helicopter, Over my head! I'm thinking of a singer, and the singer is Lionel Ritchie.' Linda then lowered the rope to spell out the singer's name.

'Here we go,' gushed June, as she took the rope from Linda. 'Helicopter, Helicopter, Over my head! I'm also thinking of a singer, and the singer is June Greenwood.' With a little smirk, June lowered the rope to the ground and spelled out her own name.

'You cannot do that, June!' Marty protested, sticking his tongue out. 'You have to use the name of a professional singer!'

'Says who?' countered June. 'Since when was that a rule, huh?'

'All right, it's my turn!' called out Mallory, grabbing the rope from June. 'Helicopter, Helicopter, Over my head! I'm thinking of a rock band, and the rock band is Styx.' Then Mallory lowered the rope to the ground, as she called out the four letters that made up the band's name.

'Hey, that's not how you spell sticks!' protested May. 'It's spelled S-T-I-C-K-S!'

'You're a very smart girl,' Mallory said, impressed. 'However, the band's name is spelled with a Y and an X.'

'Then the members of that band don't know how to spell,' insisted May.

'I guess that means the members of Def Leppard don't know how to spell either,' Linda said, laughing. 'Or Led Zeppelin.'

'Actually, Led Zeppelin is spelled correctly,' Marty said, smiling. 'That is, if you use the word led to mean the past tense of lead. They dropped the A from their name, because they didn't want people pronouncing the band's name as Leed Zeppelin.'

'I thought led didn't have an A in it,' April said, confused.

'Well, it does,' Marty explained, 'when you refer to the thing that is inside of pencils.'

'Okay, now I'm all confused,' April said, sticking his tongue out at Marty.

'Why don't we play something else now,' suggested June. 'Why don't we play school?'

'Well, actually, I think we should...' Marty started to say.

'Hey, now that is a very good idea!' gushed Alex. 'How about I be the teacher?'

'I don't think so, Alex,' protested Mallory, sticking her tongue out at her brother. 'I remember how you played teacher when we were kids. These kids don't need that.'

'What's wrong with the way I play teacher?' Alex asked, innocently.

'Let's just say that not everyone is blessed with your intelligence,' replied Mallory.

'Yeah, you've certainly got that right, Mal,' Alex said, smirking.

'Hey, come on now, you two,' protested Marty. 'We don't need another fight, now.'

'A fight?' Alex asked incrudulously. 'Well, I was just, uh...' Then, realizing that Marty maybe did have a point, Alex turned to Mallory and said, 'I'm sorry, Mallory! I guess I shouldn't be giving you a hard time - especially since today is Christmas. I really do love you, Mallory.'

'Well, uh, Alex, I, uh...' Mallory stammered, stunned.

Alex then threw his arms around his sister and drew her close. 'Just relax, Mallory, okay?' whispered Alex. 'I'm sorry I get carried away sometimes. I really do care for you, Mallory. If anyone lays a hand on you, that person will have to answer to me!'

'Oh, Alex,' murmured Mallory, as she threw her arms around her brother.

Linda then threw her arms around Marty and held him close. Marty hugged his sister back. Linda realized just how precious her younger brother was to him.

'Okay, everyone,' suggested August, 'why don't we go pick some berries? We have lots of delicious berries in our patch over there.'

'That's a good idea!' gushed Marty. 'Do we have to worry about bramble bushes? I really don't want to end up getting all scratched up.'

'Me neither,' added Alex. 'Picking berries sounds like fun, though. I have to say that blueberries and raspberries are my favourite.'

'Those are my favourites, as well,' added Marty, smiling.

'What about strawberries?' asked Mallory. 'I really love strawberries.'

'We have all of them,' April said, smiling. 'So come on, everyone! Let's go!'

Linda felt herself bursting with joy, as she went to join the kids. She was amazed by how many berries the Greenwood family had. She wanted to bring some of them home with her. She began to really enjoy being in the world a lot.

Goodwill Towards Men

December 25, 1986
3:00 PM PST
Land of Colour Universe

Alex was really enjoying himself. He was amazed by how all the children have taken a huge liking to him. He felt it would be so wonderful if he could, somehow, move his whole family into this world. Considering that the geography of this world was more or less the same as the world he came from, he could still have a chance of working at Wall Street. There would be the issue of getting an identity in this world, however.

'Hey, Alex,' said August, 'would you like to make some sun-catchers later today? We have a lot of sun-catcher kits. I really love watching the crystals harden in the oven.'

'That is very fun, isn't it?' Alex asked, smiling. 'Hey, look at this necklace I made for you. I hope you like it. It's so colourful and beautiful. I even put the colours in order of the rainbow. You know, I really haven't done this since I was a small boy myself.'

'Don't you want it, Alex?' August said, smiling. 'You make very pretty necklaces. You should look at the one I made last week. This is made of all the pink shells I found at the beach. If the weather is nice out, tomorrow - we should maybe go to the beach.'

'Oh, yes, that would be lovely,' gushed Alex. 'It's amazing to think it's so warm in this part of the world. It almost seems kind of surreal. I realize Christmas is not all about snow - but there is something quite festive about having snow for Christmas. Maybe it is just because that's what I grew up with. The cold weather I tend to not like quite so much - but I think the snow looks beautiful against the colourful Christmas lights.'

'We had snow, back when we lived in Michigan,' explained a small orange girl named Lucy. 'I have to admit that I do miss the winter festivities. Still, it is lovely that it's not so cold down here. It's nice that I don't have to bundle myself up so much. I mean, I never liked having to wear a coat. I'd rather wear a short-sleeved shirt with shorts.'

'Are you kids all having fun?' asked Marty, as he walked into the room. 'Wow! These necklaces look beautiful. I remember I used to make these when I was a small boy.'

'Oh, there you are, you sleepyhead!' teased Alex. 'I thought you were going to sleep the whole day away. Why don't you come in here, and join in on the fun? I must say, these kids are all so cute and adorable! They've really taken such a big liking to me.'

'Are you Alex's twin brother?' Lucy asked, smiling at Marty. 'I mean, you look exactly like him! I'll bet the two of you often have so much fun pretending to be each other.'

'Actually, we're not really twins,' explained Marty. 'We are actually more like cousins. We do look so much alike, though, don't we? I think it would be great to have a twin.'

'I have two friends who are twins,' explained Lucy. 'Their names are Marla and Marta - and they do everything together. They'll often switch places and pretend to be each other. Sometimes it is really hard to tell them apart. They are both so nice, though.'

'Marty and I have different preferences in outfits,' Alex explained. 'My tastes tend to lean far more conservatively.' Then, with a wink towards Marty, Alex added. 'I guess I wear what Marty would call a zoot suit. I often don't feel fully dressed without a tie.'

'My dad is like that, too,' Lucy said, smiling. 'He really loves his ties. He has ties that come in all different colours and patterns. He has a purple tie with pink polka dots on it. That one is my favourite, as it's pretty. I really wish he would wear it more often.'

'I really don't think I would look good in pink or purple,' Alex said, laughing. 'I mean, I think girls look very pretty in those colours - so I don't really dislike them. I just do not believe they would look real becoming on me. I really do enjoy bright colours as much as the next person does - and I have yet to meet someone who does not enjoy Christmas lights. Well, actually, I met a Jehovah's Witness once - so he really did not like anything that was related to the Christmas season. I don't know too much about that religion - but it sounds boring to me. I mean, Christmas is my favourite holiday.'

'I have some friends who are Jewish,' added August, 'and they really don't celebrate Christmas, either. They still enjoy looking at Christmas lights, though. In fact, one of them even decorates their house with blue and white lights. I think it is really pretty.'

'Yeah, I have a Jewish friend, too,' Alex said, smiling. 'Their family always decorates their home with blue and white lights and Chanukah decorations. They even keep an electric menorah in their kitchen window, so that it could be seen from outside. It has got to be one of the most beautifully decorated houses in our neighbourhood, in fact.'

'My friend, Joey Landvatter, is also Jewish,' explained Marty. 'He plays the keyboards in our band, called The Pinheads. His family does the same thing, also. Some of their relatives consider that to be a bit un-kosher, but Christmas lights really don't have to be used only for Christmas. In the UK, they are called fairy lights - and they could be used for other purposes. It is also a good way for them to display their Jewish pride.'

'I think the Jewish people are so lucky!' June said, smiling. 'They have eight days for receiving presents. It must be really lovely for them. I sometimes wish I was Jewish.'

'Well, Christmas is not just about receiving gifts,' Alex explained, as he remembered his lesson from several years ago. 'It is also about giving to others, spending quality time with your family, and celebrating the birth of Jesus Christ. I am sure Chanukah is not all about receiving gifts, either. In fact, I don't believe they always exchanged gifts. If I understand correctly, they celebrate Chanukah rather differently in Israel.'

'Alex is correct,' added August. 'Trisha has some relatives who live in Israel. Judaism is the dominant religion there - and Chanukah is actually a legal holiday over there.'

'Okay, kids!' called out Victoria, as she walked into the room. 'Are you kids all ready to open up your presents? Let's go into the living room, and gather around the tree.'

Alex was feeling rather nervous, as he followed everyone into the living room. He did not have any presents to give to anyone, and he hadn't arrived in this world with any money. As much as he loved money, he did not wish to seem like a greedy person.

oooooooooo

'All right, Alex,' said Victoria, 'it is your turn to open up your present. We really hope you enjoy what Todd and I bought for you.'

Alex smiled, as he reached for his present. He peeled back the wrapping paper, and then he opened up the box. Inside the box, there was a brown tuxedo - with a tie!

'Oh, thank you so much!' gushed Alex. 'It's so nice to have another tuxedo. I love the tie, too. I'll have to wear this on my first day back at college.'

'You're very welcome,' replied Victoria. Then, handing a package to Marty, she said, 'Now, Marty, it's your turn. I hope you enjoy your present, as well.'

Alex watched on, as Marty opened up his present. Marty had receive another pair of Guess jeans with a denim jacket.

'This is just what I wanted!' gushed Marty. 'I guess you knew what brand jeans I really like. I'll have to wear this when I return to week after New Years Day. Thank you very much! You are the greatest!'

'I'm glad you like your present, too,' Victoria replied, smiling. 'Now, Mallory, it's your turn to open up your present.'

Alex turned to his sister, as he watched her open up her present. She had a pair of pink sweatpants, with a matching headband. Alex smiled warmly at his sister.

'Thank you so much, Victoria!' gushed Mallory. 'I really love the colour pink, and the headband goes really good with the sweatpants. You've got just what I liked.'

'I'm so happy you loved your gift, too, Mallory,' replied Victoria. Then she grabbed for the last package, and said, 'Now, Linda, here is your present.'

Alex watched on, as Linda opened up her present. Linda also received a pair of pink sweatpants and a matching headband. Just like my sister, Alex thought, smiling.

'These are cool!' gushed Linda. 'Thank you, Victoria! Maybe Mallory and I should wear these tomorrow!'

'That's a good idea, Linda,' Mallory agreed, smiling.

'Well, I'm glad you've all liked your presents,' Victoria said, smiling.

Alex was bursting with joy, as he helped everyone else clean up the wrapping paper. It looked like everyone got just what they wanted for Christmas.

Countryside Bonding

December 26, 1986
1:00 PM PST
Land of Colour Universe

'I don't know about you,' Mallory was saying, 'but I am feeling so bored. The kids are all at the roller rink - and, unfortunately, only children who are under ten are allowed to skate there this afternoon. This is a lovely place, but it's not like any of my friends are here. Well, I mean, you guys are great people - but I really do not know my way around this town. It is my understanding that the children won't be back until dinner.'

'Maybe we could take a walk through the countryside,' suggested Marty. 'I mean, it is so beautiful out there - and this would be such a great opportunity for us all to bond.'

'That is a very great idea, Marty,' agreed Alex. Then, turning to Mallory and Linda, he added, 'You girls really should check out the countryside. I am rather certain it would be even more beautiful by daylight, than it was when we first arrived there at night. I mean, we might see some really beautiful flowers over there - and, perhaps, we may also spot some real pretty butterflies. So would this sound like a plan with you girls?'

'Hey, yeah,' Linda said, smiling, 'it sounds like a very excellent idea! I still feel rather bad about the fight I had witth Marty the other day. He's really a great brother, and I am ashamed to admit that I don't always appreciate him like I should. Taking a stroll through the countryside would certainly be a fabulous way to really uplift our spirits.'

'Yeah, I suppose we could do that,' Mallory agreed, perking up. 'I have to say Alex is such a great brother, also - even if I might not always agree with his views. He really has come through for me many times, and he certainly cares deeply about all of us.'

'I realize I do rib you quite a bit, Mallory,' Alex said, gently, 'and I guess I sometimes do tend to take things a little too far. The thing is, though, I do care a lot about you - and I guess I sometimes worry about your relationship with Nick. I do want you to be happy - and I try to tolerate Nick, for your sake. Sometimes it is really hard, though.'

'I sometimes do not understand why you're such friends with Skippy,' Mallory sighed, shrugging, 'but I guess you just have a really big heart. I don't exactly hate him, as I do not exactly believe in hating anyone. It's just that it really bugs me that he follows me around a lot, and won't take no for an answer. I really don't want to be so mean.'

'I try to explain to him that his pushiness only drives you away,' explained Alex. 'The thing is, though, I do feel real bad for him. I do not wish to hurt his feelings, because he can be so sensitive. To put this frankly, though, I just can't imagine he ever would be able to keep a boyfriend for long. I think a little bit of professional help might help him out plenty - but I wouldn't know how to suggest this, without hurting his feelings.'

'Well, nobody wants to hear that they need to see a shrink,' Marty said, gently. 'Let's face it! There is a bad stigma placed on that kind of stuff. I almost felt like suggesting that to someone I know real well, but it would only put that person on the defensive.'

'I think I know who you are talking about,' Alex said, with a knowing smile. 'I agree it would've been very counterproductive, and it would have complicated your mission a lot. Anyway, in regards to Skippy, all I can really do is continue to be his friend. I do not want to play councillor to him. I may be intelligent, but I make a lousy councillor.'

'Oh, I don't think so, Alex,' Marty said, softly. 'Remember that pep talk you gave me yesterday morning? You really did help me to feel a lot better. You're a great friend!'

'Thank you, Marty,' Alex said, smiling. 'However, there is a difference between being a great friend and being a great councillor. A great councillor sometimes has to be a bit frank with you - and not always tell you just what you want to hear. Sometimes I do end up being frank with Skippy - and then he always gets his feelings hurt, then I feel so bad for him. Anyway, why don't we start heading out to the countryside? It is such a sunny day outside, and I don't want to be cooped up inside the house all day.'

'Yeah, I want to head outside, too,' agreed Linda. 'I would love to see the countryside that you guys are talking about. It's amazing how warm it is here. So, yeah, let's go!'

oooooooooo

Marty was feeling very cheerful, as he followed the three visiters into the countryside - where they saw some pretty butterflies of different species. It felt a lot more like a very warm spring, then it did the beginning of winter. He was stunned by the sight of all the beautiful flowers blooming. Alex was correct about the countryside being more beautiful by daylight. The grass was very green, as well. Everything was wonderful!

'These are such pretty butterflies, eh?' gushed Mallory. 'I have to say, it's rather nice being away from the cold and frigid winters. I wouldn't mind moving our family here.'

'Well, I would miss having snow for Christmas,' replied Alex. 'Yeah, I understand that Christmas is not all about snow - but I always felt that it made the season so festive.'

'I never was a big fan of snow myself,' countered Linda. 'In my opinion, I think snow is very overrated. Anything below 60 degrees is just too cold for me, in my opinion.'

'Oh, gee, you are such a wimp!' teased Alex. 'If you lived where we lived, you would consider 30 degrees to be a mild winter day. Besides, there is a lot of fun things you can do in the snow. I love going on the snowmobile and going dog-sledding. It's nice to sit in front of the fireplace while sipping on hot cocoa or apple cider. You really do not know what you are missing, Linda. You are only thinking about the temperature!'

'Well, Alex does have a point,' Mallory admitted. 'Still, I do agree that I really am no fan of freezing cold weather. Putting on all those layers of clothing could be a pain.'

'I usually wear three or four layers of clothing during the cooler months,' said Marty. 'I usually put on a tee-shirt for my first layer. Then I put on a button-up shirt over it. Then, over that, I put on a denim jacket. Then I have the puffy reddish-orange vest that I like to wear over that. Some people actually thought that was a life preserver!'

'So what are you studying in college, Alex and Mallory?' asked Linda. 'I really would like to be a news anchor, someday. I am now a reporter for our college newspaper.'

'Well, I take anything having to do with economics,' Alex explained. 'That always has been one of my biggest passions - and I really would like to work for Wall Street.'

'I'm taking a major in pop culture,' said Mallory. 'I especially love music. What we're currently studying, though, is rather boring. We are studying about the doxologies.'

'So what exactly is a doxology?' asked Linda. 'The words sounds a bit familiar to me.'

'To put it simply,' Mallory said, sighing, 'a doxology is a short hymn of praise to God.'

'Gee,' muttered Marty, 'I don't think I would want to study paradoxologie... I mean...'

Alex and Mallory both burst out laughing. 'A paradoxology?' Alex sputtered, as he was laughing so hard. 'Where do you get paradoxology from, huh? You're too funny!'

Marty almost went into shock, as he could see a familiar ripple moving towards him.

Author's Note: Just read the chapter for an explanation of the time in Doxopolis.

Gateway of Doxopolis

Day 489 of 246,786
15:00 DT
Doxopolis

'Whoa!' gasped Mallory. 'What the heck is happening here? I just saw this very weird, uh, ripple. It looks a little like how a lake would ripple after you throw a stone into it.'

Marty was feeling rather worried, as he was more than a little bit familiar with what it meant to see a ripple. From his past experiences, he knew that they were officially in a different dimension. The four of them were no longer walking in the Land of Colour.

'It appears we're now in a different dimension,' Alex said, stunned. 'I would guess, in some way or another, we've somehow entered a different world. This is so amazing!'

'Just so you know,' Linda said, as she looked around, 'paradoxology is a real word. It is the study of paradoxes, you know. It is a fascinating branch of science, you know.'

'Yeah, I knew what paradoxology meant,' insisted Alex. 'It is a branch of science that I would be very interested in. I mean, it's very interesting to study about paradoxes.'

'Haha! Yeah, right, Alex!' scoffed Mallory. 'You did not really know what paradoxology meant! Why don't you just admit it, Alex? You do not know everything! Nobody does!'

'But I was being honest!' protested Alex. 'I was just rather surprised that Marty would confuse that word with doxology. I mean, they don't quite mean the same thing! How could Marty believe that you were talking about a study of paradoxes, when it has no relation to music? That is why I thought it was very funny that he said paradoxology.'

'Hey, I guess I just happen to be more familiar with the word paradox, all right?' said Marty, in a rather defensive tone. 'It is a word I hear all the time from Doc, all right?'

'Don't worry, Marty,' Mallory said, gently. 'Alex just did not want to admit that he was not familiar with the word. He acts like he has to know everything. He's just like that!'

'You did not need to get so defensive with me, Marty,' Alex insisted, softly. 'I was just ribbing you a little bit. You shouldn't be so tough on yourself. I just found it so funny!'

'So how about you take your own advice, Alex?' countered Mallory. 'You should admit that you don't know everything. You tell Marty that he should not be tough on himself - yet, you know, you defended yourself at his expense. Do you think that's real fair?'

'Look, let's not fight, okay,' protested Alex, quietly. 'Instead, why don't we just take a look around here? See all these pretty flowers? I must say, I really have not seen so many flowers before in my life. How many species would you say there are? I gather there must be thousands of them. Let's look at all the pretty butterflies around here!'

'Yeah, it's almost like we have entered paradise!' gushed Linda. 'Maybe we really are inside of paradise! Hey, I can see just about every species of bird around here. Take a look at how green the grass is here. I must say, I really wouldn't mind living here!'

'Well, I am sure we would miss our family and friends,' Mallory said, softly. 'Perhaps, if we could have them here with us, it would be really awesome. This is so gorgeous!'

'Well, I wonder if heaven is anything like this,' suggested Marty. 'Do you think it may be possible that we've all died and went to heaven? It certainly does seem that way.'

'The sunlight is very gorgeous,' Mallory gushed. 'I must've seen just about every bird that is in existence - well, of the colourful variety, anyway. I don't believe we've seen any crows around here. No ducks or chickens, either. I could see a parakeet, though. Hey, and I see some canaries, as well. I also see some bluebirds and some bluejays. I can see robins and sparrows as well. I would really have to check the bird book, as soon as we get back home. Yeah, all the butterflies and moths are so beautiful, too!'

'I can recognize several hundred different species of birds,' exclaimed Linda. 'I admit that I love to go bird watching, but none of my friends know about this. I mean, they would think I'm a bit of a geek or something. I have a reputation to uphold, after all.'

'Hey, how do you folks do?' asked a bipedal humanoid green being. He also had two antennae sticking out from the top of his head. He looked like the way Martians were often portrayed. 'Welcome to Doxopolis! I should introduce myself. My name is Fred.'

'So this is Doxopolis, eh?' asked Alex. 'Can you tell us a little about this place? I'm not even sure how we came here, even though this is most definitely a lovely place.'

'This is a gateway in the middle of the space-time continuum,' explained Fred. 'This is a place that links between various dimensions and time periods. Anyone who's a time traveller or an inter-dimensional traveller can access this location. All you have to do is see to it that you are in an open countryside, and you utter the word paradoxology three times. That's the magic word that you utter to open up the portal to Doxopolis.'

The four visitors all gasped, as they were stunned and speechless. Whoever could've guess that Marty's little mistake could be responsible for landing them into this world?

'Great Scott!' gasped Marty, as he subconsciously used Doc's habitual expression. 'I mean, this is heavy! What you are saying, Fred, is that all we need to do is walk into a countryside and say the word paradoxology three times? That is heavy duty, Fred!'

'Well, it only works when you are outside of your time or dimension,' explained Fred. 'So why don't you folks come join us for a picnic lunch. This is a popular spot where time travellers and inter-dimensional travellers like to meet. I work there during the night shift. So is there anything you folks would like to learn about this dimension?'

'Well, what time is it right now?' asked Alex. 'What's the overall climate like? How big is this dimension? Do a lot of people live here? Can we access other dimensions from here? Gee, I guess I'm asking lots of questions! Well, we've never been here before.'

'It is currently 15:25 on Day 489 of the year 246,786,' explained Fred. When the four visitors all stared at him, puzzled, he continued, 'Our days have thirty hours in it. We think 24-hour days are too short. Sunrise is always at 7:50, while sunset is always at 22:50. Furthermore, our hours have 100 minutes in it - and our years have 500 days in it. This is currently year 246,786 of the existence of Doxopolis. With regard to the climate, the temperature is always 75 degrees Fahrenheit with a mild wind. We don't have rain here, as the precipitation comes up from the ground. So the plants always have enough water to thrive on. Does this answer two of your questions pretty well?'

'Whoa, this is heavy!' breathed Marty. 'Well, I guess the having no rain is great. It is certainly a lot more convenient, you know. I wouldn't mind staying here, you know.'

'While people can access Doxopolis from various different times and dimensions, you can only go back to the dimension you came here from,' Fred explained. 'If you stay here longer than ten days, then going back would be a more intricate process. Some visitors end up staying here, because they enjoy this place so much. The people you see who look like me are native to this dimension, however. Doxopolis is 888 square miles big. By stepping outside the walls, you step back into the dimension you came here from, at the exact moment you left - providing that you do so within ten days.'

'So what happens after ten days has passed?' asked Alex. 'Do we end up stepping in limbo or something? That would be a very scary idea. Sorry about all the questions.'

'No, that's all right!' Fred said, smiling. 'You would just step right back into Doxopolis from the other end. If you stay here for 100 days, then you become a citizen here - and then you have your choice of dimensions that you would like to enter. This would continue to remain your home, though. Well, here we are now. Just follow the trail.'

Marty smiled, as he and the other visitors stepped into trail to walk over to Stephen's Lodge. There it looked like a typical house in a countryside with lots of picnic tables - and there was a huge lake nearby, too, with some people swimming in it.

Doc From The Past

Day 489 of 246,786
16:00 DT
Doxopolis

Marty was feeling rather nervous, as he and the other visitors strolled over to where the food was being served. What if they served food that he was real unfamiliar with or that looked rather unappetizing? He didn't want to seem rude, and he was hungry.

'I guess you folks must be pretty new here,' chirped a middle-aged woman. 'Are you feeling hungry? Just help yourselves to our food. You might want to try our pancakes with strawberries and whipped cream. We have tuna fish and chicken sandwiches, as well. To drink, we have some orange juice, some grape juice, and some fruit punch.'

'How much does the food cost?' asked Marty. 'We really do not have any currency for this dimension. We have American currency from the dimension we came here from.'

'That will work,' the woman said, smiling. She then got out her calculator and figured out the price. 'It will just cost two dollars and 37 cents for each of you. You folks can eat all that you like. How are you enjoying yourselves so far? This is a great place to be, isn't it? I lived here for a little over thirty years. My life was not that good before.

'Well, we have a fairly good life where we come from,' Alex said, smiling. 'Still, this is a nice place to have a little vacation. We came here entirely by accident, but I am so happy we came here. I must say I haven't seen so many different species of birds in my life - except for in a bird book. The flowers and butterflies are also real beautiful.'

'I have to admit I don't really appreciate nature as much as I should,' Mallory sighed. 'Sometimes it is easy to get so caught up in all the technology we have in our world.'

'I'm guilty of the same thing,' agreed Linda. 'I mean, it's quite nice to have advanced technology - but it is important to remember to appreciate the beauty of nature, too.'

'Well, the two can exist in harmony together,' Alex said, smiling. 'I should admit that I sometimes worry about what the future will be like, though. Still, this really doesn't have to be a case of where we have to choose one over the other. It's about how all things should be in moderation. Anyway, maybe we should go serve ourselves, now.'

'Talk to you folks a little later,' the woman said, smiling. 'I must say that you folks do look so adorable. Just be sure that you folks enjoy your youth while you still have it.'

'She is right, Alex,' Mallory insisted, as she looked at her brother. 'You sometimes do take life so seriously. You really need to kick back and relax, sometimes. In a way, I sometimes miss being a kid - and I sometimes envy Jennifer. Being an adult really is not all that it's cracked up to be. I sometimes do feel a bit old at nineteen years old.'

'I am twenty years old,' added Linda, 'and I can really relate to what you're saying. I mean, I'm no longer a teenager. I can barely believe Marty is already eighteen. He is the baby of the family, and even he is an adult now. Really, where does the time go?'

'Hey, what about me?' protested Alex. 'I am 21 years old, and I am the oldest of our family. Sometimes I look at Andy, and I think of how great it must be to be an infant - and not have a care in the world. You know, being the smartest kid in your class is not always all that it's cracked up to be. I mean, I remember how Mrs. Leahy would always single me out in front of whole class - and she'd always point out how smart I am. I guess she meant well, and she thought I would be flattered. The thing is, I was only seven years old - and I really didn't like the way she would often pressure me.'

'I guess I had never really thought of it that way,' Marty said, sighing. 'I'm quite sure if you attended our high school, you would be one of the few students that Strickland wouldn't consider a slacker. I sometimes do wish I had your intelligence, you know.'

'Well, I'm not really complaining,' Alex said, with a small smile. 'I have to admit that my sister is right, and I maybe do sometimes take life too seriously. Some might be a little surprised to hear me say this, but I admit that I sometimes wish I didn't care so much about politics. Life would be a bit easier if we didn't have to worry so much about world events. Still, I guess it's important to care - and life is sometimes hard.'

'I see what you mean,' replied Marty. Then he caught a glimpse of a man who was a bit familiar looking. 'Doc?' Marty gasped. 'The Doc is here?' Turning to Alex, he said, 'Come on! Let's go! I think this might be my friend, Dr. Emmett Brown! It looks a lot like him. I wonder what he's doing here, though. We should stop over and say hello.'

'All right then,' replied Alex. Then, turning to Linda and Mallory, he added, 'You girls just wait right here. Marty and I will be back soon. Do not go anywhere without us.'

Marty and Alex then walked over to the man who looked like Doc. As the man turned his head, his eyes grew really big. Marty then knew that the man was his friend, Doc.

'Doc?' Marty asked, stunned. 'Hey, Doc, is that you? It's me, Marty! I'm Marty McFly!'

'Marty!' called out Doc, cheerfully. 'What a surprise to see you over here! I've really missed you a lot. I mean, I really have not seen you in over a year. Clara and I are married, now. We have a baby. His name is Jules. Guess who we named him after.'

'Your favourite author, Jules Verne,' replied Marty, stunned. 'So where did you come from? Or, rather, when did you come from? You must still be living in the Old West.'

'Precisely,' replied Doc. As he saw both Marty and Alex, he gasped, 'Great Scott! How could there be two of you? How in the name of Sir Isaac H Newton did that happen?'

'Uh, Doc,' stammered Alex. 'I mean, Dr. Brown, my name is Alex Keaton. I'm really not sure of how to tell you this. I'm really not just another version of Marty, though.'

'It's all right, uh, Alex,' said Doc, waving away Alex's concern. 'Don't tell me anything about where you two came from. It could have terrible replications on the space-time continuum. I came here from December 26 of 1886. Because I really don't belong in that time, I can come here whenever I like. Clara cannot, though - because she does belong in that time. I'm not certain about Jules, though. Jules was born in that time - but I am his father, and I am from the future. Jules is chronologically older than me.'

'Time travel can be rather confusing,' Alex said, smiling. Then, as he began to shake Doc's hand, he said, 'It's nice to meet you, Dr. Brown. Marty told me so much about you. I heard you might be even smarter than I am. Is that sometimes hard for you?'

'Oh, yes, very much so,' replied Doc, grimacing a little bit. 'It's tough when so many people in your town regard you as a nutcase. I still remember the pain of, back when I taught third grade, there were parents who would pull their kids out of my class. At least my former student liked me, and they still remember me so fondly. It's rather sad to know that many of the kids are more tolerant of you than certain adults are. I mean, we really do hold adults to higher standards - and we expect them to be more mature and to be above the childish silliness. I enjoy it better living in the Old West.'

'Maybe we just don't give kids enough credit,' Alex said, shaking his head. 'It's a bit ironic how much more openminded many kids are over certain adults. The sad thing is, it's certain adults who'll teach their kids to hold prejudices about certain people.'

'Fortunately, our family taught us to love everyone,' Marty said, sighing. 'There have been many occassions that I felt like challenging adults about their prejudice of people like Doc - but, as children, we get taught to show respect for our elders. Just because one is older, though - it doesn't mean they are always right. We really could learn a lot from the children. They're really not as dumb as we make them out to be.'

'So have you boys eaten yet?' asked Doc. 'The food here is wonderful. Being a father myself, I most definitely will raise our children to be openminded people. I started building a time machine. I really did miss you a lot - and I really miss Einstein, too. So are you taking good care of him? You remember he only likes canned dog food.'

'Well, actually, uh...' Marty started to say. Then, realizing he shouldn't say too much of Doc's future, he said, 'Right, of course! I can assure you that Einie is in very good shape and is very healthy. He gets walked twice a day, too. I guess Alex and I should grab something to eat. We wouldn't want our sisters to be worried about us. They don't know about your time machine - so, after we go back home, we'll have to convince them that this was just a dream. It was nice seeing you here, Doc!'

'I really enjoyed meeting you, too, Doc,' Alex said, warmly. 'Good luck with your new family. I know you'll make a great father. Don't let the negativity of other people get you down. Life can sometimes be tough, but it's best to make the most out of it.'

'Thank you for the great words of encouragement,' replied Doc, as he threw his arms around Alex. 'It's been a great pleasure to meet you as well, Alex. I guess we'll have to move back to your time eventually - but I really love living in the Old West.'

'I would love to visit the Old West, too,' replied Alex. 'I would certainly miss some of the modern conveniences that we tend to take for granted - but it was certainly a wonderful time before all the pollution, and there was more emphasis on the family.'

'I think Clara would be horrified by how superficial many people in the 1980s have become,' Doc said, sighing. 'In many ways, though, she is ahead of her time.'

'Take good care of yourself, Doc,' Marty said, as he threw his arms around his friend. 'Tell Clara I said hello. Also, take good care of the baby. I'll see you soon.'

'I'll really miss you, Marty,' Doc said, as he squeezed Marty. 'By the way, I'm glad that you've made it safely home. I really meant to send you back to eleven at night!'

'Oh, it's all right, Doc,' Marty said, gently. 'I understand you would never mean to put me in harm's way. You've really been a great friend to me, and I am glad that you're happy. I can tell Clara really cares a lot about you. I send good wishes your way.'

'I wish you could stay in the Old West with me,' Doc said, warmly. 'However, I know you have a life in your own era - and it wouldn't be fair to keep you out of your era.'

Marty and Alex both waved to Doc, as they went to look for their sisters.

Paradise Picnic

Day 489 of 246,786
17:00 DT
Doxopolis

'So how is Dr. Brown doing?' asked Linda, as soon as Marty and Alex had returned to the table where the girls were sitting. 'How did he end up in this world, anyway? Gee, I believe I might be waking up from this any minute now. This seems rather surreal.'

Marty was somewhat uncertain of how he should answer. 'It's possible he might have found a magic stone, as well,' Marty suggested. 'Anyway, he said he was feeling real wonderful. He said it was a really swell vacation for him, to get away from the hustle and bustle of normal life. I would love to stay here, but I would also miss my family.'

'You really should try some of these pancakes,' suggested Mallory. 'I must say, these pancakes are even better than the kind that Mom makes. Please do not tell her I said that, though. I really find the food here to be swell. I greatly enjoy watching the birds and the butterflies flying around the sky. I really wonder how this world would look at night. It would probably be rather heavenly! I suppose we cannot stay and find out?'

'Well, to be honest,' Alex replied, sighing, 'as nice as this place is, I am kind of a little anxious to return to the Land of Colour. I mean, that world is such a swell place, too.'

'I have to agree with Alex,' added Marty. 'The Greenwood family has been wonderful to us, and I really would like to spend more time with them. The kids are all so cute!'

'I can hardly wait until Andy starts talking,' Alex said, smiling. 'I mean, he is a really gorgeous little baby - but I wish he could talk back to me. That will be the one major drawback of working at Wall Street. I won't be able to see my little brother as much as I really would like to. I will make it a point to visit around the holidays and such.'

'Sometimes I wish I had a little brother,' Marty said, sighing. 'It sure does suck some of the time to be the youngest in your family. At times, my parents still treat me like I'm still a little boy. I mean, I'm an adult now, for crying out loud! Give me a break!'

'Well, in your parents' defense,' Alex said, gently, 'I could imagine it would be difficult to see your child all grown up. Also, it could be the empty nest syndrome setting in. I mean, you did say you were the youngest in your family. It must make your parents a little bit sad. I mean, obviously I'm not a parent yet - but I could imagine how that would feel. Sometimes, I tend to regard Andy as being my son. Know what I mean?'

'Well, I can understand Marty's frustration,' Linda said, nodding. 'I mean, when I had decided to leave the house and rent my own apartment - my parents did not take to that so well, either. They kept begging me to stay, and it tends to get so frustrating.'

'My parents are kind of like that, too,' Mallory said, sighing. 'Although, I suppose it is better than the other extreme - where a few of my friends' parents would practically kick them out of the house as soon as they turn 18. I mean, that is not right, either.'

'You do have a point, Mallory,' Linda said, sighing. 'It doesn't exactly make it any less frustrating, too. Maybe I'll understanda little better when I become a parent myself.'

'I can imagine that becoming a parent would really change your perspective on many thi