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sharon
07-11-2011, 07:57 PM
Anyone moved to The Villages and don't like some of the people around you in the Neighbourhood you live in. I had family and friends down for July 4 weekend, the neighbour across the street seem to get very upset. There was 2 cars parked on the street just for a short time to unload the car and truck. Everyone was gone most of the day and at the Square at night. We have only moved in for 3 months now the person across the street wont speak and just stand there and looks at you. On 4th of July my friends were in a golf cart and the same person across the street was in the car as we passed he turn around and drove by us and then turn around and came back just looking at us. We have never been in a Neighbourhood that no one talk to anyone only a few people. The ones that do talk said they have never lived in a place where the neighbours don't talk much. We are ready to find a new place to go......

Pturner
07-11-2011, 08:04 PM
Hi Sharon,
Sorry to hear you've had a bad experience. Is it possible that your neighbor thinks that you are the one who never speaks? Sometimes, both people wait for the other to make the first move.

Next time you see him, why not go over and introduce yourself? Maybe he's shy. Maybe he imagines you are a renter and won't be there long. If you haven't spoken with him, there are a thousand maybes. Try to get to know him before you write him-- and your whole neighborhood-- off. What could it hurt?

Welcome to you. And all best wishes.

Pturner

Bill-n-Brillo
07-11-2011, 08:06 PM
Hi Sharon - welcome to TOTV!

Sorry your neighbor doesn't seem overly pleasant. Have you tried going across the street, introducing yourself to the neighbor, and striking up a conversation with them? Maybe even take them over a plate of cookies or a pie or something.

Just a thought........

Again, welcome to TOTV!!

Bill :)

sharon
07-11-2011, 08:16 PM
We have said hello to him about four time, he doesnt seem to want to speak, a few other neighbors said the same thing. We have rented for a year in the The Villages and we had great neighbor everywhere on the street, up the street and down the street.

Tom Hannon
07-11-2011, 08:21 PM
I find 99% of the people in the Villages very friendly. Of course you come across one clown every once in a while but as the others before me answering this post, maybe try breaking the ice and saying hello. Perhaps attend the Crispers gathering on Friday. You will meet other Village people and see for yourself how friendly everyone can be.

Bogie Shooter
07-11-2011, 08:30 PM
I conclude from your posts that there is only one neighbor who seems to give you the cold shoulder. Continue to try to engage with him. If this doesn't work just pass him by and get to know your other neighbors. Look into your villages social club, go to their events. You will find there are a lot of friendly people in your neighborhood and in the greater Village.
There are some like him everywhere so don't feel alone.
Welcome to The Villages, we are glad to have you.

Bill-n-Brillo
07-11-2011, 08:39 PM
........Of course you come across one clown every once in a while .......

Thanks for the plug, Tom!! :jester: :1rotfl:

Bill :wave:

Trish Crocker
07-11-2011, 08:58 PM
hmmm..let's see...84,000 people in the Villages...1 won't speak...really not seeing a problem there! As everyone has said, I would try to engage him in conversation, possibly starting with "it seems that I have offended you somehow"...if he doesn't respond it's his loss, he's probably a very unhappy person. I would definitely not consider moving, there are too many other really great people.

missypie
07-11-2011, 09:15 PM
He could be a person that has an illness. We never know why people behave the way they do.

Bosoxfan
07-11-2011, 09:41 PM
Some folks are grouches before they move here!You would think that living in a place like this would cure that but apparently it doesn't with some.Hopefully all the wonderful experiences you'll have here will far outweigh senor grumpy! Welcome & Enjoy!!!

jebartle
07-12-2011, 03:05 AM
that happens a lot in a retirement village.....Sounds like they are missing a great opportunity to meet great people....When that happens to me, I make it my mission to make them smile....A plate of cookies was a great idea!....By the way, welcome to the Villages

hedoman
07-12-2011, 03:44 AM
What neighborhood, what village? We'll all come over and have a block party and make him smile! :thumbup:

graciegirl
07-12-2011, 05:36 AM
hmmm..let's see...84,000 people in the Villages...1 won't speak...really not seeing a problem there! As everyone has said, I would try to engage him in conversation, possibly starting with "it seems that I have offended you somehow"...if he doesn't respond it's his loss, he's probably a very unhappy person. I would definitely not consider moving, there are too many other really great people.

Or like some folks that I know well, he didn't put his "hearers" in this morning after his shower. AND some people are PAINFULLY shy. Most people become more comfortable in the light of smiling faces and cheerful conversation.

I didn't wait to see if my neighbors came to me when we moved into Hadley three years ago, I went around a couple days after we moved into new house and introduced myself and invited them to coffee. I asked them to bring their own cup since we hadn't outfitted ourselves for company yet. Went to Publix and bought several of their lovely sweet rolls and some paper plates and forks...and enjoyed meeting all these nice people who soon became our friends and hopefully will continue to be our friends in our new home being built right now.

I hope that you find the secret to unlocking Mr. and Mrs. "Staring's" smiles. I think the BEST thing about TV is the people who have traveled down life's highway for at least five decades and have so many adventures to share.

I welcome YOU and hope that you find happiness, and peace, and health here in Lower Paradise for a thousand years.

Hugs,
Gracie

BlueHeronFan
07-12-2011, 06:38 AM
By your description of the individual it sounds more to me of some sort of dementia. I have heard of a similar issue and that is what it was. For some, a mean streak comes from the health issue. Unfortunately, in a retirement community, issues of the elderly can be seen more close up.

PennBF
07-12-2011, 06:59 AM
I would seriously suggest you ignore him and go about your life. He either has a health problem, is just unhappy with life, has family problems, etc. None of these are yours to accept any form of ownership. As long as he does not harass you in direct terms, (at which time I would call the Sheriff) I would just go about your business. He is looking for attention and I would not give it to him. We are so fortunate to have terrific neighbors. I guess I will appreciate them more after reading your note.:mornincoffee:

jaspal
07-12-2011, 07:11 AM
I am so sorry that you are experiencing a bad neighbor. Buttonwood Hgts has the best neighbors. I have not meet an unfriendly neighbor yet.

Talk Host
07-12-2011, 07:14 AM
We had a neighbor with diabetes. He didn't do much to take care of himself. His personality would change day to day. Some days he would be a good neighbor. Some days he would be silent. There were times that he actually came out and screamed at other neighbors.

For a while, he was my golf buddy, then suddenly he was no longer friendly.

My wife and I actually came into his house at least four times and saved his life when he was in diabetic shock, but he never thanked us or even commented about our actions. (we could hear him moaning or thrashing about and went in to investigate)

Ya know, even though we knew he had a serious illness, it was still kind of irritating to be thrust into a role of care giver to a stranger who didn't display any gratitude. But we knew it was the right thing to do, so we did it.

2BNTV
07-12-2011, 07:51 AM
Thanks for the plug, Tom!! :jester: :1rotfl:

Bill :wave:

Thanks for the laugh. :mademyday:

Joe :wave:

LI SNOWBIRD
07-12-2011, 08:14 AM
[Q.
Welcome to The Villages, we are glad to have you.[/QUOTE]

Hang in there buddy.. the rest of us are friendly and caring.
:BigApplause:

JenAjd
07-12-2011, 08:16 AM
There will always be "that one" who can make it miserable for others. However, I'd just ignore his behavior and get to know your other neighbors. In the meantime...if you bake.....make some banana bread or similar item and take it over. Maybe he just needs someone to "break the ice".

To let one individual disturb you enough to want to move...gives him all the power!!!

2BNTV
07-12-2011, 08:22 AM
Anyone moved to The Villages and don't like some of the people around you in the Neighbourhood you live in. I had family and friends down for July 4 weekend, the neighbour across the street seem to get very upset. There was 2 cars parked on the street just for a short time to unload the car and truck. Everyone was gone most of the day and at the Square at night. We have only moved in for 3 months now the person across the street wont speak and just stand there and looks at you. On 4th of July my friends were in a golf cart and the same person across the street was in the car as we passed he turn around and drove by us and then turn around and came back just looking at us. We have never been in a Neighbourhood that no one talk to anyone only a few people. The ones that do talk said they have never lived in a place where the neighbours don't talk much. We are ready to find a new place to go......

sharon:

I'm so sorry you find yourself with this dilemna. It's a shame that one neighbor is being a grouch due to hearing or medical problems, etc. I can understand your being upset as everyone wants a happy carefree experience TV has to offer.

You have received good advice. I would approach him in a way that you are comfortable with to determine if it is really you or he's mad at the world in general. If he is mad at the world, then don't let rent space in your head. Don't let him become your own personal nightmare. Ignore him or come to a understanding of what his problem actually is. I would not want to move as there are so many people you can have a good time with. JMO.

Best wishes for future happiness.

Freeda
07-12-2011, 09:06 AM
There are any number of reasons, as mentioned above, for his behavior; could be some dementia, medication effects, hearing problem, negative personality, mourning, etc. If you try to break the ice by going over and initiating a conversation, or inviting him over for a visit, you may end up with a great friend or at least a good neighbor. If not, just take the higher road and handle the situation in a way that keeps your own attitude good whenever you see him - just always smile and wave or nod; and just tell yourself that, whether or not he ever lets you know, you may have made his day, but at least you kept your own day positive. TV's lifestyle attracts people who for the most part, in addition to all of the other perks, want to build new and lasting relationships.

Walt.
07-12-2011, 09:32 AM
Maybe... just maybe... there is no problem at all. Maybe he's not sick, hard of hearing, a grouch, or anything at all.

Is there some sort of rule that everybody has to like everybody here? If somebody doesn't wave, or give you a big smile you have to make cookies, or a nice cake or something? How about handing him an envelope full of cash?
If he's throwing stuff on your lawn, bad-mouthing you around the neighborhood, or peeking in your window... you have a problem. Otherwise...

I have nice neighbors on both sides, across the street, and up and down the block. The guy directly across... not so much. Am I concerned? Nope... who cares? Did you like everybody at school, at work, everywhere?

On TOTV a while back a lady was upset that when riding her golf cart she waved to 75 other carts and only a few waved back... Give me a break.

graciegirl
07-12-2011, 09:56 AM
Sometimes what feels normal and right depends on where you are from and what you are used to. The Villages doesn't feel much friendlier than Ohio to me...but it is a little. (Ohio is pretty friendly)

Were you wearing a cat in the hat hat?

(You said they were staring)

Did you remember to tie the back strings of your bikini?

One never knows what is on another persons mind.

I always assume they would like a friendly hello...and if that doesn't work...well there are 80,000 other folks who might like a friendly hello..

Just sayin'............

Boomer
07-12-2011, 10:09 AM
Maybe... just maybe... there is no problem at all. Maybe he's not sick, hard of hearing, a grouch, or anything at all.

Is there some sort of rule that everybody has to like everybody here? If somebody doesn't wave, or give you a big smile you have to make cookies, or a nice cake or something? How about handing him an envelope full of cash?
If he's throwing stuff on your lawn, bad-mouthing you around the neighborhood, or peeking in your window... you have a problem. Otherwise...

I have nice neighbors on both sides, across the street, and up and down the block. The guy directly across... not so much. Am I concerned? Nope... who cares? Did you like everybody at school, at work, everywhere?

On TOTV a while back a lady was upset that when riding her golf cart she waved to 75 other carts and only a few waved back... Give me a break.


WALT!

Hey!

I am sitting in a McDonald's in Cincinnati. I am between appointments this morning, and I just stopped here to wolf down an Egg McMuffin. (i know they are not good for me, but I like 'em.) BUT, you, sir, just made me snort coffee out my nose and I just missed getting it all over my iPad.

Then I looked at where you are from, and I just gotta tellya I have never met a New Yorker that I did not like. Seriously. I mean that. In fact, if I ever get to TV from Ohio, I intend to try to sneak into one of the clubs with the New Yorkers. You New Yorkers tell it true. And with terrific humor. I must start practicing now so I can get the accent down.

Now, please send that envelope full of cash to me at my home address:

Boomer B. Boomer
60-ish Boomer Blvd.
Boomerville, Ohio

BobKat1
07-12-2011, 10:29 AM
Maybe... just maybe... there is no problem at all. Maybe he's not sick, hard of hearing, a grouch, or anything at all.

Is there some sort of rule that everybody has to like everybody here? If somebody doesn't wave, or give you a big smile you have to make cookies, or a nice cake or something? How about handing him an envelope full of cash?
If he's throwing stuff on your lawn, bad-mouthing you around the neighborhood, or peeking in your window... you have a problem. Otherwise...

I have nice neighbors on both sides, across the street, and up and down the block. The guy directly across... not so much. Am I concerned? Nope... who cares? Did you like everybody at school, at work, everywhere?

On TOTV a while back a lady was upset that when riding her golf cart she waved to 75 other carts and only a few waved back... Give me a break.

Walt, what you say makes a lot of sense. TV is no different than any other city of +80k population except the ages of the residents are fairly close. Not everyone will like everyone else or be friendly.

Although fresh cookies does sound good.....

eweissenbach
07-12-2011, 10:55 AM
Or like some folks that I know well, he didn't put his "hearers" in this morning after his shower. AND some people are PAINFULLY shy. Most people become more comfortable in the light of smiling faces and cheerful conversation.

I didn't wait to see if my neighbors came to me when we moved into Hadley three years ago, I went around a couple days after we moved into new house and introduced myself and invited them to coffee. I asked them to bring their own cup since we hadn't outfitted ourselves for company yet. Went to Publix and bought several of their lovely sweet rolls and some paper plates and forks...and enjoyed meeting all these nice people who soon became our friends and hopefully will continue to be our friends in our new home being built right now.

I hope that you find the secret to unlocking Mr. and Mrs. "Staring's" smiles. I think the BEST thing about TV is the people who have traveled down life's highway for at least five decades and have so many adventures to share.

I welcome YOU and hope that you find happiness, and peace, and health here in Lower Paradise for a thousand years.

Hugs,
Gracie

Better yet have Gracie come to his house with cookies. He will melt and become a teddy bear! And remember: No one can ruin your day without your permission.

Barefoot
07-12-2011, 11:04 AM
Maybe... just maybe... there is no problem at all. Maybe he's not sick, hard of hearing, a grouch, or anything at all.

Is there some sort of rule that everybody has to like everybody here? If somebody doesn't wave, or give you a big smile you have to make cookies, or a nice cake or something? How about handing him an envelope full of cash?
If he's throwing stuff on your lawn, bad-mouthing you around the neighborhood, or peeking in your window... you have a problem. Otherwise...

I have nice neighbors on both sides, across the street, and up and down the block. The guy directly across... not so much. Am I concerned? Nope... who cares? Did you like everybody at school, at work, everywhere?

On TOTV a while back a lady was upset that when riding her golf cart she waved to 75 other carts and only a few waved back... Give me a break.

Sharon ... perhaps you remind your neighbor of his ex-wife who cost him millions in a divorce settlement.

Walt ... I have to tell you that I love your response. Some people just like to be left alone. Bringing them cookies and bread probably isn't going to change that. On our street we have one set of "hermit" neighbours. I call them the Kranks. And that is OK, they don't bother anyone, and no-one bothers them!

There are zillions of ways to make friends in TV. The neighborhood pool, block parties, sports, rec centre activities. I say, concentrate on the positive and don't let the kranks get to you.

texasfal
07-12-2011, 11:15 AM
Walt I loved your response. I have a neighbor across the street who is agorophobic. If she comes out of her house, it is to put the garbage on the driveway and then she runs like the wind back inside. I also have a neighbor 2 blocks over who thinks she runs the neighborhood social club because she's been the treasurer for 10 years. She's just plain nasty. We just laugh. People are people. What are you going to do except keep your friends close and ignore the others. IMHO

Freeda
07-12-2011, 11:19 AM
Even in TV, we're not going to befriend everyone, but since the poster's problem was with someone so near - right across the street - who will probably be seen often, and they were acting so oddly (ie, not just being avoident) for no obvious reason, to me it would be worth it to at least make an effort to try to be neighborly or find out if there is perhaps a misperception or misinterpretation about something, rather than just writing them off based on a possibly mistaken assumption.

Perhaps there was a problem between him and people who lived there before and he was trying to figure out if the poster was someone different - you just never know!

I think it's worth it to make an effort to be on at least cordial terms with nearby neighbors; but then I'm a little bit southern, except that I don't (can't) bake, but would share a beer or glass of wine! :beer3:

2BNTV
07-12-2011, 11:20 AM
Your not going to be everyone's favorite person. That's just the way it is.

As I was born and raised in New York, your reality is sometimes ingrained with that thought. However, some people are more sensitive than others and I like cookies. :)

I also can't wait to move to TV as I want to experience the friendliness of many people, (not all, as it's not realistic).

I sure hope Boomer likes me as a friend she hasn't met yet!

tony
07-12-2011, 11:51 AM
I think Boomer is everybody's Favorite English Major, even when she is willing to accept Walt.'s envelope of cash. I didn't know English majors did that.

Boomer
07-12-2011, 01:15 PM
I think Boomer is everybody's Favorite English Major, even when she is willing to accept Walt.'s envelope of cash. I didn't know English majors did that.


Dear Mr. Tony, Mr. Admin, Sir:

Here you go again with that English major thing. I do not know why or where in the world you ever got such an idea in your head. You are always trying to catch English majors hanging out here.

Wellllllllll, how could I possibly be an English major?

If I were an English major, i would be able to read between the lines and conclude that when you said, "everybody's favorite English major," you were damning with faint praise, at best, or being oxymoronic, at worst.

Hah! You cannot catch me. I did not know that. So how could I be an English major?

Like I have said before, you are lookin' a lot like Wile E. Coyote when you try to trap English majors.

Beep Beep Boomer

Bill-n-Brillo
07-12-2011, 01:36 PM
All -

Just an FYI - I am the absolute worst neighbor anybody could ever have. Soft chocolate chip cookies (light on the chips) could perhaps sway me to improve my "neighborly demeanor". Sandy and I will be back in TV in early September.

Thank you -

Grumpy Neighbor Bill :)

:jester::jester::jester: :wave:

diskman
07-12-2011, 01:45 PM
Anyone moved to The Villages and don't like some of the people around you in the Neighbourhood you live in. I had family and friends down for July 4 weekend, the neighbour across the street seem to get very upset. There was 2 cars parked on the street just for a short time to unload the car and truck. Everyone was gone most of the day and at the Square at night. We have only moved in for 3 months now the person across the street wont speak and just stand there and looks at you. On 4th of July my friends were in a golf cart and the same person across the street was in the car as we passed he turn around and drove by us and then turn around and came back just looking at us. We have never been in a Neighbourhood that no one talk to anyone only a few people. The ones that do talk said they have never lived in a place where the neighbours don't talk much. We are ready to find a new place to go......

Suggest you throw one of those driveway parties and personally invite the close neighbors to get to know them. Or knock on their door and introduce your selves, you may just need to break the ice!chilout

Trish Crocker
07-12-2011, 02:06 PM
Walt I loved your response. I have a neighbor across the street who is agorophobic. If she comes out of her house, it is to put the garbage on the driveway and then she runs like the wind back inside. I also have a neighbor 2 blocks over who thinks she runs the neighborhood social club because she's been the treasurer for 10 years. She's just plain nasty. We just laugh. People are people. What are you going to do except keep your friends close and ignore the others. IMHO

Your post reminded me of a skit I saw on Saturday Night Live years ago. A woman had agorophobia and claustrophobia....the entire skit was of her coming out on her front porch...screaming..then walking back into the house..screaming. Too funny!

2BNTV
07-12-2011, 02:53 PM
All -

Just an FYI - I am the absolute worst neighbor anybody could ever have. Soft chocolate chip cookies (light on the chips) could perhaps sway me to improve my "neighborly demeanor". Sandy and I will be back in TV in early September.

Thank you -

Grumpy Neighbor Bill :)

:jester::jester::jester: :wave:

How about a truckload of popcorn to help your neighborly dispostion? :jester:

Joe :wave: :popcorn:

rubicon
07-12-2011, 04:16 PM
It may not be a personal thing against anyone as some folks just prefer their privacy.

On the other hand I have had neighbors who are totally clueless and not aware that they , their children or the pets are throwing their neighbors fits.
Some refused to mow their lawns, or shovel their driveways so as to get their cars off the streets so the plows could come through. Some let their dogs go wild and neighbors end up shoveling their grass before they can mow. these are thoughtless acts and yet I'll bet they wonder why neighbors would not speak to them? Or maybe they did it intentionally for that same reason.

Pturner
07-12-2011, 06:44 PM
All -

Just an FYI - I am the absolute worst neighbor anybody could ever have. Soft chocolate chip cookies (light on the chips) could perhaps sway me to improve my "neighborly demeanor". Sandy and I will be back in TV in early September.

Thank you -

Grumpy Neighbor Bill :)

:jester::jester::jester: :wave:

:1rotfl::clap2::1rotfl:

Bettiboop
07-12-2011, 07:06 PM
All -

Just an FYI - I am the absolute worst neighbor anybody could ever have. Soft chocolate chip cookies (light on the chips) could perhaps sway me to improve my "neighborly demeanor". Sandy and I will be back in TV in early September.

Thank you -

Grumpy Neighbor Bill :)

:jester::jester::jester: :wave:

Duly noted...Just in case I end up your neighbor :D

katezbox
07-12-2011, 08:41 PM
I conclude from your posts that there is only one neighbor who seems to give you the cold shoulder. Continue to try to engage with him. If this doesn't work just pass him by and get to know your other neighbors. Look into your villages social club, go to their events. You will find there are a lot of friendly people in your neighborhood and in the greater Village.
There are some like him everywhere so don't feel alone.
Welcome to The Villages, we are glad to have you.

:BigApplause:

katezbox
07-12-2011, 08:44 PM
I think Boomer is everybody's Favorite English Major, even when she is willing to accept Walt.'s envelope of cash. I didn't know English majors did that.

And she must be an English major after all, her breakfast was on an English muffin...Unless of course she hails from Cincy via the UK...

tony
07-12-2011, 09:00 PM
Oh, gee.

I never got the connection to the English muffin. I missed it entirely.

Boomer really is an English major.

Boomer
07-12-2011, 09:46 PM
And she must be an English major after all, her breakfast was on an English muffin...Unless of course she hails from Cincy via the UK...

Oh, gee.

I never got the connection to the English muffin. I missed it entirely.

Boomer really is an English major.



That Kate! She's a tough un,
Pointed right to that muffin.
Does Boomer have egg on her face?

Forsooth and forthwith,
Might Boomer be pithed?
Major rumors all over the place.

:024:

tony
07-12-2011, 10:07 PM
I think that was poetry. English major stuff.

Barefoot
07-12-2011, 11:52 PM
Your post reminded me of a skit I saw on Saturday Night Live years ago. A woman had agorophobia and claustrophobia....the entire skit was of her coming out on her front porch...screaming..then walking back into the house..screaming. Too funny!

I like your sense of humor. :thumbup:

MrMark
07-13-2011, 04:01 PM
Hi Sharon - welcome to TOTV!

Sorry your neighbor doesn't seem overly pleasant. Have you tried going across the street, introducing yourself to the neighbor, and striking up a conversation with them? Maybe even take them over a plate of cookies or a pie or something.

Just a thought........

Again, welcome to TOTV!!

Bill :)

I like the pie idea. Make it Boston Cream and stick it in his face just like Art Linkletter in the old Truth or Consequences tradition! Probably need to do this before he starts calling the police to complain that you are parking illegally across from his house.

Pturner
07-13-2011, 05:26 PM
Say... whatever happened to Sharon?

She must not like us very much. :posting:

swimdawg
07-13-2011, 05:34 PM
Say... whatever happened to Sharon?

She must not like us very much. :posting:

Yeah....she's kinda MIA.

Ya win some and ya lose some:shrug:

BobKat1
07-13-2011, 07:32 PM
Maybe she made positive contact with the guy across the street (maybe took him some cookies:))...

Pturner
07-14-2011, 11:30 AM
Maybe she made positive contact with the guy across the street (maybe took him some cookies:))...

BobKat, you devil. You were just holding out for cookies? :girlneener:

2BNTV
07-14-2011, 12:24 PM
Anyone moved to The Villages and don't like some of the people around you in the Neighbourhood you live in. I had family and friends down for July 4 weekend, the neighbour across the street seem to get very upset. There was 2 cars parked on the street just for a short time to unload the car and truck. Everyone was gone most of the day and at the Square at night. We have only moved in for 3 months now the person across the street wont speak and just stand there and looks at you. On 4th of July my friends were in a golf cart and the same person across the street was in the car as we passed he turn around and drove by us and then turn around and came back just looking at us. We have never been in a Neighbourhood that no one talk to anyone only a few people. The ones that do talk said they have never lived in a place where the neighbours don't talk much. We are ready to find a new place to go......

Hi Sharon;

Welcome to TOTV!!!

I was concerned about how you are doing with the neighbor. I sincerely hope find you still upset and have come to some sort of viable resolution on this situation.

Best wishes.

senior citizen
07-14-2011, 01:11 PM
Maybe... just maybe... there is no problem at all. Maybe he's not sick, hard of hearing, a grouch, or anything at all.

Is there some sort of rule that everybody has to like everybody here? If somebody doesn't wave, or give you a big smile you have to make cookies, or a nice cake or something? How about handing him an envelope full of cash?
If he's throwing stuff on your lawn, bad-mouthing you around the neighborhood, or peeking in your window... you have a problem. Otherwise...

I have nice neighbors on both sides, across the street, and up and down the block. The guy directly across... not so much. Am I concerned? Nope... who cares? Did you like everybody at school, at work, everywhere?

On TOTV a while back a lady was upset that when riding her golf cart she waved to 75 other carts and only a few waved back... Give me a break.

I liked your answer. It was spot on. In Vermont it takes years and years for the "locals" to accept a newcomer. No NEWCOMER goes around making cookies for the OLD LONGTIME NEIGHBORS.

Usually, it would be ONE outgoing member of the neighborhood who comes to welcome the newcomer.....and only one. Seriously, guess New England just isn't that friendly??? WE also lived in New Jersey and it was exactly the same way. People mostly keep to themselves.....until you get to know them slowly and find a common interest. Raising children together seems to do it when one is younger....school activities, etc.

One does make good friends, and neighbors who when needed will be there for you, but not the first day or month they arrive.

Maybe it's just a regional thing. Some people may want to retire to a nice sunny location but really don't want to be that sociable morning noon and night 24/7. It may just be his or her personality or shyness as one writer put it...........or, perhaps they are indeed hard of hearing or suffering from dementia in its early stages. I can see that theory. Personalities change.

As others have said......if one person doesn't seem as welcoming, there certainly appears to be many other happy villagers who would be totally opposite. So, don't sweat it. However, I would not label the person negative and unfriendly. He could just be caring for a sick spouse or feel under the weather himself...........or again, just be shy with poor social skills.