DEAR ABBY: Our neighbors, “Wanda” and “Bob,” have agreed to care for our house and cat when we vacation. We told them we’d like to pay them for their troubles, but Wanda says they want to do it for free. Bob just smiles.
Judging by her body language, Wanda seemed offended when I asked her how much she’d like to be paid. You see, I’m sure we can return the favor if they leave town, but we have the means and time to vacation more often than they do. I don’t want to offend but neither do I want to take advantage. In our area, there aren’t any house-watching services. I’m stumped. What’s a neighbor to do in this instance? — GETTING AWAY IN OREGON
DEAR GETTING AWAY: It appears that Wanda and her husband prefer to enjoy the benefits of practicing the good neighbor policy rather than focus on monetary reward. Approach Wanda and tell her you appreciate her willingness to watch your place while you travel and reiterate that you would be pleased to do the same for her and her husband when the opportunity arises. While you are away, if you see an item you think they would enjoy, present it to them upon your return. (I’m thinking something characteristic of where you have been.)
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Stories by Abigail Van Buren
Dear Abby: I only meant to visit friend in the hospital, I had no idea I was intruding on his last moments
Dear Abby: Husband insists on continuing ‘charade’ of a long-distance friendship; I’m over it
Dear Abby: I know my allergy is tough, but surely I’m worth more than a baked potato
Dear Abby: Am I the last to realize that my marriage is more like a business partnership?
Dear Abby: Younger generation has no interest in my stories; they are going to lose their history
Dear Abby is written by Abigail Van Buren, also known as Jeanne Phillips, and was founded by her mother, Pauline Phillips. Contact Dear Abby at www.DearAbby.com or P.O. Box 69440, Los Angeles, CA 90069.
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