[fintstone]

Originally Posted by jwasbury

^I think this is all good advice for dealing with a rational individual.

We have done nothing to change the character, in fact we specifically worked to preserve it. The exterior of the house is virtually unchanged, only reversed about 30 years of neglect by the prior owner. The neglect was apparently a sore spot for these neighbors. We do understand the renovations were disruptive. We sent letters to all the neighbors with our phone number and our appreciation for their patience as we restore our old house prior to commencing the project. Many times apologized in person for the dust and debris and thanked for patience.

Her husband ("the doll" according to the Mayor) has praised the work we have done and has said multiple times that we now have the nicest block in the town.

If you really want a solution, it is all about her perception, not yours or those who are not concerned. Treating her poorly or without respect will only make things worse. She likely has nothing better to do than engage in a lifelong pissing contest with you. Do you have the time to play that game?

Keep playing nice and be the "bigger man"...the only one who risks losing new neighborhood friends and sleep is you if you are perceived to be bullying an old lady. She apparently is already past that concern. How you treat those who are not your equal or superior often strongly colors how you are perceived (and usually not fairly).

Honey always works best. Especially with women. If a guy, you could just offer to kick his ancient old arse..."get off my lawn!!!" I did that once to a young, fat, doughnut eating cop neighbor of mine...and it worked quite well...but tryin to go crazier is not often the bast response.