Dead Shrub in the House

Quote of the day:
“How can I compromise when she doesn’t do what I say?”
--Rene Balcer and Eddie Feddiman, from a script for “Law & Order.”

We had a lot of fun getting a Christmas tree yesterday.

It was 60 degrees--a little nippy for San Diego (get out the ear muffs)--and a crisp, clear, sunny day. There were a few other shoppers at the tree farm, but it was far from overrun. And there were a few requisite barnyard animals in attendance.

After about 30 seconds of becoming overwhelmed at having to choose among so many trees, Merrie said, “Let’s get this one!” And we did.

The helper was right there to carry it to the shaker (a mighty fine invention), the bundler, the sawer, the cashier, the car.

Then there was putting into the Scion hatchback, which happens to be one of the very smallest cars on the road.

But there we were, driving home with 7 feet of tree in the car, with the hatchback closed. The tippy-top of the tree separated Merrie and I in the front seat. It smelled good.

Then out of the car and into the living room, in almost one continuous motion. The animals were fascinated. Translation from kittyspeak: “For ME?”

It’s Christmas, I guess.