Although Americans are very friendly, they are also rather private. You may be surprised to know that very often people don’t even know their neighbors. In a big city, it’s very possible that people living in the same apartment building won’t know the people next door. In the suburbs, it’s not unusual for neighbors to wave from their cars or to say “Hi” across their yards, but not to know their neighbors’ names. Have you noticed how many houses have fences around them? It may seem strange, but it’s really just an example of how much Americans value a sense of privacy, especially at home. Friendly, but private—now that’s tricky! Of course, some neighbors just like to party all the time. Hoo, boy! That can be a problem.
Lia: Hi. I’m Lia Chen, your neighbor from around the block. We’re having a barbecue Saturday, and we thought you might like to come. Lots of the neighbors will be there. Jae and Ramon are coming, too. They’re your neighbors across the street.
Alan: It’s nice to meet you, Lia. I’d like to come, but I’ll be working all weekend on a big project for my job.
Lia: Well, if you change your mind, come on over. You’re welcome to come, and I think it will be fun for you to meet all the neighbors.
Alan: Thanks. By the way, I’ve been meaning to talk to you. I hope my dog’s barking doesn’t bother you.
Lia: Actually, I wanted to talk to you about that. When you’re gone during the day, the dog barks all the time. It’s driving me nuts.
Alan: I’m really sorry! I’ll keep the dog in the house when I’m gone.
Lia: Thanks so much. I hope you’ll come over for some burgers and dogs on Saturday. And drop by our house to visit anytime!
| Tip 3 |
When people are trying to be friendly, they may ask you to “drop by anytime.” Don’t believe it! This is a way of being friendly, but most people don’t like unexpected visitors to drop by. It’s always a good idea to call first and ask if the person is busy. |
| Tip 4 |
If you are invited to a party or barbecue, it’s polite to bring something. Before you go you can ask, “What can I bring?” Even if the host says, “Nothing,” you should bring something. It can be a special food treat from your culture or some flowers. Other kinds of gifts are not usually given. |
Fun Fact!
Many neighborhoods have a “block party” during the summer. All the neighbors bring some food and drinks to share, and everyone has a great time.
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VOCABULARY
barbecue (also called a cookout): an outside party where food is cooked on a grill
barking: dog talk!
block: in a neighborhood, the area from street to street
burgers and dogs: hamburgers and hot dogs
change your mind: make a different decision from your first one
driving someone nuts (or going crazy): doing something very annoying (or being annoyed)
drop by: go to someone’s house without an invitation
host: person who invites others to a party
lots of: many
meaning to do something: intending or planning to do something
next door: the apartment or house right next to yours
suburbs: neighborhoods just outside the city
value: think something is very important
yards: small gardens around houses
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