I wrote about our too-big tree. I decided I wanted to replace it with a Dogwood. I assembled the paperwork and submitted it to our HOA (Home Owner’s Association). I thought I could get the tree swap done in a couple of weeks. Wrong. The HOA rejected the application and provided wording that would meet their requirements. I modified the application to include their words, which included the requirement that the tree should be at least 8 feet tall (along with some other requirements). I figured a new application made the swap a sure thing. While waiting, I called a couple of tree specialists. They told me nobody sells an 8 foot Dogwood. A large one is 4 to 5 feet. I went to the HOA meeting and explained the problem. They said “Nope. It’s gotta be 8 feet”. If I want an exemption, I should have the tree specialist write a letter. Plus, I should take a picture of the tree I propose to buy. And by the way, there’s a specific specialist who works with a specific company I might consider consulting. Whatever. It’s clear I can’t get the tree done quickly. I didn’t want have my front yard dug up while construction was going on in the kitchen. I will wait until spring, gird my loins, and re-approach the board. There’s one silver lining. While going through all this, I found another tree that is even better. An Eastern Redbud is on the HOA acceptable tree list, it has a root structure that is less aggressive, and it doesn’t drop as much stuff.

We saw Downton Abbey movie. It was nice, but not compelling.

My hearing aid company came out with new devices that do a better job of cutting background noise. I’m skeptical, but I got a trial pair at no cost. In two weeks I’ll decide whether to keep them.

That’s it for this week. I hope everybody is doing well.