Tree Decision: Keep'em or Cut'em?

We are big fans of trees being used as landscape elements to add detail or shelter to your home. But many times the tree begins to overstay it's welcome and the branches become unmanageable or the roots pull up the pathway or lead to damage to your foundation.

But in this homeowners situation she's got two big trees in her backyard that just aren't working with the activities they have planned in the yard and they also give the spatial impression that her yard is smaller than it is. A few of the commenters have suggested she take down the trees but to be cautious of birds and small animals living in the trees as well as considering re-planting the trees in a more suitable location. What wood you do?