DEAR ABBY: My husband and I are friendly with our neighbors. We're all smokers, but they don't smoke inside and we do.
It seems like they have decided that coming to our house every day to hang out is acceptable, which normally wouldn't be a problem. But they come in, sit on our couch and don't say a word to us. Their eyes are glued to their tablets or cellphones instead. They respond to our attempts at conversation with grunts, never looking up from their entertainment. They'll stay for an hour or so, then leave.
I have the feeling they're using our house as a "smoking room" so they won't have to stand in the cold or be away from their entertainment. My husband is going to say something soon because he's not happy and our "hints" haven't been acknowledged. Is this as rude as I think it is? -- PUFFING MAD IN MAINE
DEAR PUFFING MAD: Yes, it is. Although you and your neighbors are all smokers, it appears you have little else in common. You say your husband is going to say something "soon." I recommend he speak up the next time these people show up and "suggest" that they leave their electronic devices at home. What boors!