 The episode was written by executive producer Mindy Kaling , who also portrays Kelly Kapoor on the series , her 24th writing credit for the series . This marks her first writing credit as an executive producer . Before this , it was speculated that she might not return to the series as a writer , before she confirmed that she would be writing the Christmas episode . She has also written the previous two Christmas episodes : " Secret Santa " and " Classy Christmas " . The episode was directed by cast member Ed Helms , making his directorial debut . The episode also marks the fourth appearance of Lindsey Broad who plays Cathy , Pam 's replacement during her maternity leave . She appeared in a recurring role for the season and she initially appeared in " Pam 's Replacement " . Due to Jenna Fischer 's actual pregnancy , Pam did not appear in the episode . The Season Eight DVD contains a number of deleted scenes from this episode . Notable cut scenes include shoots of several of the staff member 's Christmas wishes being revealed , Dwight and Jim 's pranks start turning on Cathy , and Meredith hitting on a newly single Robert . 
