Can't Love Christmas

Twenty One

Ash: 

Can I ask you for a favour today?

The Grinch: 

You can ask.

Ash: 

Can we use your truck?

The Grinch: 

Of course.

Ash: 

Thanks!

Wear an older coat if you've got one.

And make sure there isn't too much stuff in the truck bed. We might need the space.

The Grinch: 

Just curious, is any part of today an indoor activity?

Ash: 

Yes. See you at 10!

Rowan's truck rumbled up to Ash's house just before ten. She threw on her old ski jacket and headed down to meet him before he made it up the stairs.

"So, where are we going?"

"We are heading just outside of town. I've got the directions on my phone."

"Okay. Let's go." They climbed into the car and followed the tinny voice from her phone to a Christmas tree lot just outside the town limits.

"What are we doing here?"

"Getting my Christmas tree obviously! Then we are going home and we'll decorate it! You could get one for the bar if you want too!"

"I'm not killing a tree to do this. If anything, the world needs more trees, and shouldn't waste them on things like this."

"So, it's the tree cutting you are opposed to, not the symbolism or the act of decorating a tree or anything like that?"

"Pretty much. I like artificial trees more."

"Aren't they worse for the environment?"

"I don't know. But they last for years and years so it's a one time thing, and you don't cut down a new tree each year. Also, way less of a fire hazard. So if I was forced to put up a tree, that's what it would be. And that's what the bar will do if I ever pull it out of the attic."

"But tree farms replant more trees than they sell, and the new trees clean the air. Making fake trees pollutes it."

"But tree farms can displace natural ecosystems too."

Ash sighed. "I don't think we will find common ground with this."

"What do you do with a real tree once you take it down?"

"We've always just stuck it on the curb for pickup."

"When you're done with it, let me know. I'll come get it for firewood."

"Okay. But let's stop talking about burning the tree before I even get it, yeah?"

"Sorry."

When they finally hopped out of the truck, the attendant met them at the gate. "Hi folks, what can I help you find today?"

"I'm looking for a six or seven foot fir."

"You want a seven foot tree!" Rowan's eyes boggled.

"Yeah? I have eight foot ceilings."