I put up some cobwebs and fake skeletons for Halloween, and my neighbor Irene complained to the HOA about them. She was at my door pleading for assistance less than a day later. What caused the abrupt change of heart? You will find out soon enough!
My name is Wendy, a retired schoolteacher and grandma, and apparently, public enemy number one in our neighborhood.
“Wendy! What are you doing?” Irene yelled, hands on hips, when she spotted me decorating.
“It’s Halloween, Irene! Same as I’ve done for 30 years.”
“But it’s so… GARISH!” she exclaimed.
I chuckled. “It’s supposed to be a little garish.”
7 days later, I received an HOA letter about my decorations. Guess who complained? I called the HOA, and they said I had to remove my decor in 48 hours or face a fine. Not happening!
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Willie, Irene’s grandson, was running about the next morning with one of my pumpkins on his head, claiming to be the Headless Horseman.
“Remove that!” Irene yelled. “Miss Wendy’s yard is the coolest!” objected Willie.
Later, Irene approached me, looking smaller and unsure. “Wendy, I need to apologize. I shouldn’t have complained.”
I listened when she explained how her grandson loved my decorations, especially during his tough family times.
“Can you help me decorate my yard?” she asked, hope in her eyes.
Of course! Together with Willie and my grandson Carl, we decorated her yard the following day by hanging cobwebs and carving pumpkins.
Irene confided in me about her fear of change and loneliness while we were working. Life is too short to stress over appearances, I reminded her.
Irene thanked me for everything on Halloween. Feeling the warmth of new friendships, I remarked, “This may be the beginning of a lovely tradition.”
As we headed inside for pie, I suggested planning our Christmas decorations next.
“Let’s show this neighborhood real holiday spirit!” Irene laughed.
Willie chimed in about real reindeer and a huge Santa.
Who knew a few decorations could lead to such joy? Life’s too short not to enjoy some spooky fun! Happy Halloween!