DEAR ABBY: I have a dilemma with my neighbors, a young couple who moved into our neighborhood a couple of years ago. They are a very nice couple and we became friendly. But over the last several months, they have been spending an inordinate amount of time in our home.
They show up unannounced and often stay for more than two hours! My husband and I have two children and full-time jobs, so we don't have a lot of free time as it is. But when these two show up, we can't accomplish anything. They don't pick up on hints or gentle nudging when we try to get them to leave.
I dread the sound of the doorbell these days because I know it will be them. Sometimes it seems like they are watching to see when we come home. How can I tell them we need some space without hurting their feelings? I like them, but these unannounced visits are starting to take a toll on me. -- TRAPPED IN MY OWN HOME, FRONT ROYAL, VA.
DEAR TRAPPED: Your neighbors do not respect boundaries because you have set none for them. The next time they show up, do not let them in. Tell them you have chores you must do, and ask them to call before coming over in the future to see if it is convenient for them to visit. To speak up is not rude -- it is self-defense, which you have a right to practice when your home is being invaded.