movingon's Profile

I always go back and forth on this in my mind. If I did what I truly wanted to, I'd never speak to anyone nor would they to me and we just help each other if needed. But, I know that's rude and so I do say hello to people and have meaningless chit chat with them when I can't avoid it. That being said, I have found almost every time when you start talking to someone, it never ends. And the conversation is almost always about other neighbors, complaints about wherever you live and so forth. And for me, I have also been put upon by neighbors calling me, knocking on the door, etc. once I've started talking to them just to be nice. I think they feel if you live alone you have no life and they want to insert themselves into yours not realizing that you want your peace and quiet. After working all day, I want to be left alone. So, I think a polite hello, how are you is the right thing to do and then move on. And move on quick. Beyond that can get too much - people can't help themselves. Some communities whether apts, townhomes, homes (and I've lived in all) are friendlier than others. I say if your neighbors don't talk to you, while insulting, don't fret it, stop saying hi and just move on.

I don't think it was mean of grandma to say that at all. I just went through this situation myself. I have lived alone for years and have my house just as I want it, too. Brand new carpet upstairs and I want shoes off inside - friend doesn't always remove shoes. I too, keep the lid down on the toilet - friend doesn't. I also like everything clean - friend doesn't seem to care as much. Not to mention that said friend ate all my fruit, drank my wine, didn't bring shampoo, a hairdryer, socks, bandaids and well, as much as I love her dearly, I was happy to see her go home. She's already talking about next year and bringing her husband and toddler over - to my house with a dog who does not like kids - I might just have to be out of town. I'm glad for this post - made me feel a bit more "normal" seeing I am not the only one who feels this way.