On another note, about trees and bushes that took such a beating for hours and hours and many lost leaves. I can see new growth already on the plants and trees originally planted on our lot. They chose well. They are durable and hardy and hurricane strong.

They make a mess. In my opinion, they are wonderful in parks but shouldn't be allowed anywhere near houses or other buildings.

One of my neighbors behind me has one in his backyard and it makes a mess in my backyard. My patio is all stained from the crap that this tree constantly dropped.

If I had realized it, I never would have bought this house.

Living thing as in a plant? Not really. The dirt was a living thing at one time as well.

It's bad enough that some people think that we shouldn't kill animals. Are we now going to elevate plants to that status?

I think if a plant is on your property you should have the right to remove it.