Dear Abby: My family bought our dream house – our jealous friends no longer invite us over

DEAR ABBY: My husband and I have been friends with another couple for 15 years. We saw each other once or twice a week, alternating at each other’s houses, and occasionally went out for dinner, where we took turns paying the bill.

Three years ago, we bought our dream house and since then, our friends stopped inviting us to their house. We have invited them countless times as we enjoy their company, but they have stopped coming back. They’re also less likely to pick up the tab when we go out.

Once, we went three months without seeing each other. I wanted to see how long it would be before they reached the hand. They never did, so I relented and invited them. They gladly accepted the invitation and we did well.

We spare no expense on food, alcohol and sweets when they come, which we are happy to do, but this has become extremely unfair. It’s not about money – they earn the same amount as us.

We have fun together, but I’m starting to seriously resent them for not putting effort into our friendship. I’m starting to wonder if they aren’t really good friends and I just have to let go, which really makes me sad. Do you have any tips? — LEFT FROM FRIENDSHIP

DEAR MOVED: You stated that for over a decade you and this couple lived in similar homes until you moved out and upgraded your lifestyle. Has it ever occurred to you that the reason these friends no longer invite you over may be because they are embarrassed by the comparison? They can also be jealous.

Consider telling them you’ve always enjoyed visiting them and would like to do so again. Then cross your fingers and hope they take you on. You stated that this couple has the same income as you, but it is unwise to count other people’s money.

DEAR ABBY: I walk with a stick and have difficulty walking since I had a serious accident. Our building has a laundry room for everyone. I went to put my clothes away. There are two middle washers. One was over. Empty rejected my laundry card, so I emptied the other guy’s clothes into a cart.

The new neighbor came back and was upset that “I touched his laundry and didn’t wait”. When he apologized, I said, “Write a note on the board.” I feel no obligation to teach a grown man what is right. Your thoughts? – IN THE NEWS IN NEW YORK

BELOVED IN LAJE: Your neighbor is territorial about his things. Some people are. Even though it came back in a reasonable amount of time, you had no idea how much it would be and, because the other dishwasher wasn’t working, you were right to do what you did. You may have defused this impasse by giving him the apology he asked for. you should write a note to the board, informing them that one of the machines in the laundry room needs servicing.

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