Dear Annie: A set of neighbors used to live across the street from me. When they did, I thought they were really nice, but I found out later — too late — that they were meth addicts who stole anything that wasn’t nailed down, including from me. I discovered they would watch when I’d leave and go into my house. I’m 74 and from the era when we didn’t lock our doors, much to my detriment.

Eventually, they moved away but kept and still own that house. It was bliss having them gone. They rented out the house for a while until it burned down one evening. The man decided to rebuild it himself, and now the stealing has started again. Two days ago, two packages were stolen from just outside my gate. I know in my soul this man did it, but I don’t have proof. I’m poor and don’t have enough money to buy surveillance cameras.

I’m afraid of having these people back in my orbit. I don’t know what to do. Do you have any advice? — Frightened in Eugene, Oregon

Dear Frightened: The only side of the street you can control is your own — so keep it clean and protect yourself. Report every theft to the police. Even if you can’t prove it now, documenting what’s going on will show a clear pattern of behavior and build credibility later. Ask if your precinct has neighborhood patrols or a watch program that can keep an eye out at your address; if your neighbors are as shady as you say, you’re probably not their only target.

For packages, request a signature upon delivery or use a secure pickup locker instead of leaving them at your gate. You’re right that cameras can be pricey, but if you can start saving now for a basic model or an alarm system even, every penny will be worth the peace of mind.

You can’t stop this behavior, but you can stop being an easy mark.

Dear Annie: My younger sister “Annie” constantly borrows my clothes without asking. Sometimes they come back stained or stretched out, and when I bring it up, she laughs it off. I feel disrespected but no matter how many times I bring it up, she brushes me off, saying sisters are entitled to each other’s clothes. How do I set boundaries? — Frustrated Big Sister

Dear Frustrated Big Sister: Borrowing is one thing, but damaging? That’s a boundary no one is entitled to cross, sister or not. Put a lock on your closet to stop to her nonsense. Your closet, your rules.

Follow Annie Lane on Instagram at @dearannieofficial. Visit http://www.creatorspublishing.com for more information. Send your questions for Annie Lane to dearannie@creators.com. COPYRIGHT 2025 CREATORS.COM