With any work like this Ted the main thing is the accuracy of the selections and tree/foliage interface to the sky which is critical.
Whilst I rarely 'modify' images other than 'adjust' existing data in specific areas I have found that luminosity masks make this a doddle in examples such as yours.
Here's two minutes work with one luminosity mask on your original, something that would have been near on impossible using global adjustments, standard selection methods or manual brushing.
Learning the techniques has kept me busy during these times that I can't get out shooting new pics.