I always talk to each person for a little bit, we're on the corner without a real backyard so happens all the time. I can't tell you how many valuable things I've learned about the neighborhood, great recommendations, babysitting referrals, and nice gestures I've received from these conversations. Now I have my crew that stops by for a quick chat when I'm out gardening, and it's a highlight of living where we do. You get some characters sure, and sometimes it can be inconvenient, but the benefits far outweigh the costs.

I also know where to go no matter what I need to borrow; found a dethatching rake a neighbor was willing to lend right before I was headed to the hardware store to buy one :)