DEAR ABBY: I’m irritated by my neighbors, and I don’t know quite how to approach it. I live in a densely populated, but quiet, neighborhood. New neighbors moved in a couple of years ago, and after moving in, they hung a wind chime on their front porch. This isn’t your average wind chime. If I had to guess, the chimes are at least five feet long.

At first, I didn’t think much of it. These whimsical little melodies you hear every time the wind blows can be cute, I guess. But it gets quite windy here, and I’m constantly distracted by the loud, clanging chimes. I don’t want to be the type of person who knocks on their door and tells them how I feel. I was hoping you could chime in. — DISTURBED IN RHODE ISLAND

DEAR DISTURBED: Make it your business to find out what the noise ordinances are in your neighborhood. Then BECOME the type of neighbor who knocks on their door. When you do, wear a smile and bring along a small gift.

Explain that you don’t want to appear to be a complainer, but could they please modify those wind chimes, because on windy days the constant banging gives you headaches. If they are good neighbors and cooperative, be grateful. However, if they aren’t, you may have to pursue legal means.

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Dear Abby is written by Abigail Van Buren, also known as Jeanne Phillips, and was founded by her mother, Pauline Phillips. Contact Dear Abby at www.DearAbby.com or P.O. Box 69440, Los Angeles, CA 90069.