Life is tough and confusing and weird. We all need help sometimes, and when you need an expert opinion, you turn to an expert opinion-giver like Robin Halper. Whatever problem you’re facing in life, Robin will have a solution. The Cascade cannot guarantee the effectiveness of Robin’s unique approach to life, but if you’re in a jam, get some advice by writing to halp@ufvcascade.ca
Tree talk
Dear Robin,
My roommate asked me if I want to buy a Christmas tree with him for the holidays — like a pre-lit, plastic one. We’ve only been living together for a few months, but this question makes it seem that he wants to live together for a long time. He’s fine, I guess, but I’m hoping to move out sometime next year, and Christmas trees are pricey, so I’m not sure how to tell him no. How should I handle this?
Sincerely,
Tree Trapped
Hey,
I know it may seem like fake Christmas trees are insanely expensive because of shops like Michael’s and Canadian Tire selling them for well over $500, but the truth is, you can pop into a second-hand shop for one of these for a fraction of a price. Worst comes to worst, buy a little real tree from a farm nearby. It’s super cheap and it’ll die in a month or two, so you don’t have to worry about who’s going to get the tree when you move out.
Robin
Family feuds
Dear Robin,
I’m absolutely dreading hanging out with my family for Christmas this year. Usually it isn’t too bad, but when I visited during Thanksgiving weekend, things were all tense and everyone was salty with each other. I don’t even know why. I feel like they’re all keeping something from me, or everyone has just reached a point in their lives where they stop caring about each other. I have no idea what to do.
Sincerely,
Homebody Here
Hello,
Families are complex, but only when you let them be. This year, I suggest getting drunk before you join your family so when they start being jerks to each other, you can easily join in, without second guessing yourself. Someone in your apartment building will have a flask you can borrow that will be helpful for loading up in the taxi on the way to see your family. Just knock on some doors, people will be sympathetic. I find a cheap tequila is the most effective for times like these. Hopefully you don’t remember any of it the next day so you can go home guilt-free.
Robin
