The thirteen pine trees in my backyard have me cringing every time the weather person hints of a coming storm. Two of the pines have limbs overhanging my house, they drop an uncountable number of needles and cones on my roof, and their shade contributes to the growth of mold and mildew on already aging shingles. In March when the winds whistle through, the boughs sing me goosebump-inducing melodies.
The thought of having them cut down stirred the naturalist in me. Where would the nesting wildlife go? Did I want to be one of those people who raped the land to suit myself? Last week I buckled and had three of the pines felled. Each one measured more than ninety feet. One had a hollow spot filled with water, compliments of several pileated woodpeckers.
So now as I sit here this Tuesday evening with the news full of Hurricane Matthew warnings, I feel much less anxious with the two trees nearest the house removed. And at least where I live is not in the eye of the storm although it will be close enough that shelters have been opened. It's expected to pass through in the early morning hours unless it stalls.
Hopefully, we won't lose power but it is sort of a given. All my techy stuff is charged up and the pantry is full of canned stuff for me and Mopsy. I'll update after and if you're inclined to say a prayer, it will be much appreciated.
