We trimmed and removed bushes and trees with a total of 17 large garbage bags, 3 large trash containers and 4 large wardrobe packing boxes full of yard waste. Luckily M's mom came up and helped and guided us in trimming and hacking the eyesore that once was...now it looks great! 
Several neighbors have commented on how nice it looks and that they are so glad that someone who cares now lives here. 
We were also told that it was amusing to watch the previous owners try to use a shovel in the winter. K is right at home and is ready to be potty trained we think. That is our next big task. To have her out of diapers before she becomes a big sister! She is definitely interested and probably couldbe trained by this point, but we weren't ready with all that was going on! Molly also has a new friend, a fellow golden retriever named Roscoe. they get along great! :)
