This was an interesting story. I liked Jase's idea to find Noah a very unique gift for his birthday. It was nice seeing Jase not really like Dave, his rival. After a while, the re-planting of the Douglas Fir got a bit tedious. My heart went out to Dave when he realized that Noah only wanted to be friends. Then my heart went out again to Dave when he realized that he was falling for Jase. I definitely think Noah had feelings for Jase so I was surprised and disappointed when Jase ended up with Dave. I never saw when Jase fell for Dave. Yes we were told, but I didn't believe it. Also it would have been nice to see Noah's reaction to the Douglas Fir and realize how much work Jase put into it. Also I would have wanted to see Noah's reaction when he found out that Jase and Dave were a couple now because Noah definitely has feelings for Jase. I wanted Jase and Noah together and I feel we got cheated. I love Anyta Sunday's style, her boy-next-door characters (ups, in this case it is the next-door neighbour) are always lovable without being too perfect. So this is a really enchanting short story. And even the two question, that had bothered me, couldn't prevent me from liking it a lot. But I still wonder "What had happened to the other 47 douglas firs and how did he pay for them if he had to?" and "Why do parents allow their 12y old son to have christmas with his older brother instead of having both at home?"These two questions wouldn't have prevented me from giving 5 stars, no, it is something else: The lovestory was much too short. I mean, I get all worked up about Noah, I can see what a great guy he is, I like him a lot. Then I meet Dave, who, is also pining for Noah. Yes, he seems to be nice, but hey, he is competition. Yes, I didn't even like him in the beginning. He became okay for me after he kept his mouth shut about the firs, but still.... and then everything happened too fast. The swimming lessons, the sudden realization that Jason had fallen in love with Dave and vice versa. I had no time to get invested in them as a couple. That is the reason that it's 4 stars. :)But btw. nice touch with the phone call at the end, like closing a circle.
What do You think about The Douglas Fir (2013)?
Why no, I'm not freaked out AT ALL that Xmas shorts are being released already *freaking out*
—Hannah
A cute read to make you feel good this holiday season.
—cookie
