Pet Peeve
Q My neighbor cuts his lawn with a power mower every Sunday at 7 A.M. I appreciate his nice-looking yard, but I hate being awakened at that hour. Is it rude to ask him to mow later?
Propose a reasonable solution. Say something like, "Wow, Phil, your lawn looks great. But can I ask you to wait until 9 A.M. to mow on Sundays? It's my only day to sleep in. Thanks!" If he ignores your request, try recruiting other sleep-deprived neighbors to speak up. Chances are you're not the only one suffering.
Q Whenever we go out, my friend seems to be strapped for cash. So she "borrows" a few bucks -- but never pays me back. How do I tell her I'm sick of being shortchanged? Have a talk with her before your next outing together. You might say, "I really enjoy spending time with you, but things are tight for me right now, so I can't afford to spot you if you need to borrow money. Instead of going out, why don't we just get together over here or at your place?"
WHAT WOULD YOU DO?
Should you confront a partying parent?
One of the dads on your kid's soccer team drinks booze out of plastic cups at games Even though he's discreet, you still think he's out of line. Should you say something?
Yes
" I would tell him he's setting a bad example for our children." Ilene Davison, 62, NY
No
"As long as he's well behaved and not driving, I'd give the guy a break!" Sarah Hill, 27, CA
Yes
" But I would approach the coach or league manager, not the dad." Gari Cowan, 50, TN
PEGGY SAYS Yes. But it's a serious accusation, so be sure before you speak up. Most youth-sports programs have an explicit "no alcohol" policy. Report what you've seen to the program's governing body, asking that they tell the father to stop drinking at games. You could ask other parents to report the problem, too.
Pop Quiz
Q Your son's teacher sent you a back-to-school supply list -- and some items, such as a fancy calculator, are too pricey for your current budget. Should you:
A Call the school for advice. They may be hearing the same thing from other parents
B Ask the moms in your social circle if they'd pool their money and buy the calculator for your kids to share
C Buy the stuff. Education always comes first