So, next to this palatial summer cottage we've (my parents-in law) rented for this week, a cranky old guy spends a few hours every day, apparently building a house on the lot next door.

I suggest he's cranky because he's never dropped by to say 'Hello' or even waved or smiled from a distance when our whole crew was scattered about the various patios and decks.

Not so bad, you might say. Some people just aren't that extroverted or are shy or quiet. Fair enough.

Then my sister-in-law's dog trotted into the old man's yard. My SIL sheepishly scooted over to retrieve the dog, smilingly offering apologies.

"Get your damned dog off my property or I'll shoot him twice!"

My first thought was to reply: "Why will you have to shoot him twice? Are you afraid you're not man enough to do it with just one bullet?"

I guess my people skills could be better.