The holidays are back and looking for a Christmas tree doesn’t have to be difficult. McKinney has three tree lots, which make the search for the perfect tree more convenient.

Steve Bell owns all three McKinney tree lots. The lot on the corner of El Dorado and Ridge has 15 workers, including senior Robert Ewing.

“I get paid five dollars an hour,” Robert said. “I like the job because of the tips. That’s where I get most of my pay.”

The lots sold 70 trees the weekend after Thanksgiving break, making for a busy couple of days.

“How much I work depends on the day,” Robert said. “Customers are very friendly and tip well, and that’s why I love this job.”

Robert found the job from his friend and works the lot each winter.

“I took the job because my dads best friend owns the company,” Robert said. “It’s an easy job for me and it pays great.”

They have different methods in which they set up and sell the trees to customers.

“We drill a hole through the base of the tree, hammer a stand through that hole, put it through a Baylor, then tie it to the top of the customer’s car, and they leave happy.” Robert said. “We also sell yard art, angels, and wooden reindeer.”

Tree prices range from $60 to $280 and the heights range from 5 to 11 feet in stature.

“I’m glad I have this job,” Robert said. “It puts me in the mood for the holiday spirit of Christmas.”

Written by Khalil Webb