Q.Water Ponding on Lawn
I removed some large trees and the lawn around that area is mostly compressed clay full of weeds. After heavy rains, I get ponding of water in those areas. Because of large areas of roots, I want to prep that soil to grow ground cover plants since I am not strong enough to dig deep holes to plant shrubs. Do I mix sand & top soil to cover the areas before planting?

Certified GKH Gardening Expert
I would not mix sand into your soil. It sounds like you have some clay issues and sand and clay make concrete. Instead, just focus on adding top soil and organic material. These articles will help you as well:
https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/garden-how-to/soil-fertilizers/yard-drainage-problems.htm
https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/garden-how-to/soil-fertilizers/how-to-improve-clay-soil.htm