A Close Encounter

For months I’ve been hearing a creaking noise coming from the gigantic tree on the south side of the house, but couldn’t figure out what was causing it. Then the other day, in preparation of showing the house, I decided to wash the windows upstairs. I stood there looking out and thought to myself, “Huh, I don’t remember that tree being so close to the house.” Of course, trees just don’t get up and move so I didn’t think much of it and moved on to scrubbing toilets.

Then, yesterday, we had another 40 mile-an-hour wind day here on the prairie. It blew the bark right off the old tree in the back that was hit by lightning last summer.

I was wanting some bark to use for dying yarn, but this is a bit excessive.

As I stood there inspecting the bark, I heard the creaking noise again. Remembering my thoughts while washing the window I decided to investigate. Sure enough, I was right, the tree IS closer to the house than it used to be. A huge branch is dangling precariously. Rather close to the house too, I might add.

The large branch is suffering from some sort of stress fracture.

Needless to say, I cancelled all my plans for this morning and we are all sitting around waiting for a tree guy to show up.

“I hope he gets here soon,” said Thelma. “I was supposed to get a pedicure today.”