DEAR ABBY: I live in a hot climate. I have the only swimming pool in the area. My neighbors and their children have taken an invitation to swim on a particular day as an opportunity to use my pool whenever their hearts desire.
Abby, I don't want people in my pool on a daily basis. Maintenance is expensive, and I want my privacy.
How can I politely let people know that my pool is not open all the time and still maintain friendly relations with my neighbors? -- PRIVATE POOL OWNER
DEAR POOL OWNER: Let your neighbors know that your pool is open to them from ( ) to ( ) on a specified day and that children must be supervised by parents at all times.
If a regular schedule is not acceptable, do what other readers have done: Buy a decorative flag and let your neighbors know that when they see the flag is flying, visitors are welcome as long as children are accompanied by parents.
You have a right to your privacy, but you must assert that right or it will be ignored.