My neighbor Irene reported me to the HOA over my Halloween decorations—a few plastic skeletons and cobwebs. Less than a day later, she was at my door, begging for help.
At 73, I’ve seen my share of neighborhood dramas, but nothing quite like this. I’m Wendy, a retired schoolteacher and proud grandma, and apparently, public enemy number one to Irene.
One day, while decorating, she confronted me, declaring my decorations “garish” and saying they were ruining the neighborhood’s tone. A week later, I received an HOA complaint—thanks to Irene. Determined not to let her win, I kept my decorations up despite the threat of fines.
The situation escalated when I heard her grandson, Willie, playing with my pumpkin. “Look, Grandma! I’m the Headless Horseman!” I couldn’t help but smile. Irene, however, was furious and told him to take it off.
