My neighbor, Irene, reported me to the HOA over some plastic skeletons and cobwebs I put up for Halloween. Less than a day later, she was at my door, begging for help. Why the sudden change of heart? Well, you’ll soon find out!

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!

The following morning, I saw Irene’s grandson, Willie, running around with one of my pumpkins on his head, declaring himself the Headless Horseman.

“Take that off!” Irene shouted. But Willie protested, “Miss Wendy’s yard is the coolest!”

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.