The area I live in is what most would call 'borderline' — it's safe, but has a definite element of sketchiness. I would characterize my neighbors in much the same way.

For example, when we bought new furniture, Neighbor Tom knew, even though we didn't tell him. He asked us if our paver patio was put in, even though supplies for it were well out of view and in our backyard.

His knowledge of the goings-on at our house is a little creepy, but on the other hand, it's kind of reassuring. At least I know someone's on the lookout for the sketchy element, and he'd be the first one to let us know if there was trouble brewing.

If Neighbor Tom were weirder than he is, I might worry that he was a crazed stalker. But, as it is, he's just an overly observant and chatty neighbor.

And he can be a time-consuming distraction. He comes out of nowhere while I'm doing yard work and stands there with his beagle dog, just waiting to strike up a conversation. That conversation will last a minimum of 30 minutes, and I'll learn all about my other neighbors and what they're doing. Then I'll be thrown off my house-chore groove and wrap things up prematurely.

Or, if I see him coming, I'll sometimes run into the house just to avoid the 30-minute gossip session. Still, it's an interruption to the mission.

Mostly, I don't mind. He's harmless and means well — I think.