Let’s talk about the people who know your schedule better than you do. You know the type—peeking through the blinds at 7:03 a.m., clocking your every Amazon delivery, and somehow always outside the moment you step out with a new haircut. Yep. Them.

The nosey neighbor.

When I moved into that neighborhood, I met mine before I’d even unpacked a single box. My moving van had barely hit the curb when she appeared, introduced herself, and gave me a full rundown of every neighbor on the block—names, habits, and which ones might borrow a cup of sugar and your peace of mind. I smiled politely and thought, Ohmygoodness… she’s gonna be a problem.

But she seemed nice enough, so I decided to wait and see.  Six years later, I can tell you this: I’m so glad I did.

This so-called “nosey neighbor” turned out to be an absolute godsend. Completely unsolicited, she:

• Took in my packages when I wasn’t home

• Closed my gate every time the wind blew it open

• Helped stop two potentially bad situations (we think burglars, but who knows what’s in a bad guy’s mind?)

• Patched up a window a neighborhood kid accidentally broke—while I was out of town

• Babysat my 5 spoiled rotten pooches like they were royalty

• And—most importantly—alerted me to a near fire in my home

Was she a little much sometimes? Sure. But she also looked out for me in ways I didn’t even know I needed.

And when I moved away, I cried—because I knew I’d miss her. Not just her watchful eye or the way she protected my space, but her presence. Her care. Her constant.

It’s been so long now that I’ve even forgotten her name…But I’ll never forget her.  Pest? I don’t think so.

So… Nuisance or Gold?

The truth is, “nosey” can look a lot like “caring” when it’s done right. It’s all about the balance. You don’t have to be best friends—but a neighbor who pays attention, who notices when something’s off, who shows up when it counts? That’s a win.

Just set kind, clear boundaries. Smile. Say thanks. And when all else fails—bring cookies. Trust me, it helps.

Because the best neighborhoods aren’t made of houses. They’re made of people.