backyard clean-up

When we were househunting there were no leaves on the trees, so there was a clear view of the water from the house. But, as the leaves filled in this summer we had no view of the river. So, we had some clearing done (as much as we are allowed. there are strict restrictions on what you can take down along the water. we even found out that they have video of all of the shoreline and review it to see if things have been removed!) Here is the "before" shot from our patio.
Carter was in heaven watching all of the action for 2 days.
The "after" shot. Now you can see the water and walk down to the dock without dodging tree limbs!
We must have disturbed this guy's home. He's a little thing, but Jon hates snakes! So, I e-mailed him the picture at work :)