Loud officemates warrant a funny timeout

DEAR AMY: I work in a cubicle across a narrow hall from the water cooler, restrooms and kitchen. Co-workers tend to congregate in this area and carry on conversations on all topics, work-related and otherwise. I have on occasion asked the offenders to keep it down. Usually, they're apologetic. Others take it as a personal affront and storm off. No one in a position of authority is willing to take on this issue. I'd like to post a sign on the exterior wall of my cubicle reminding people that their co-workers are, in fact, trying to work and to kindly keep it down. Humor seems to work with this crowd. Any suggestions on what to say?Reluctant EavesdropperDEAR EAVESDROPPER: Some offices don't allow humorous cubicle art, but if yours does, how's this: "We all know we don't really work around here, but let's keep this secret from our clients and customers. Shhhhhh!" I'll happily run tips from other readers who spend their days in cubicle farms.

DEAR AMY: There has been a spirited discussion in your column about young people who dropped in on their grandparents unexpectedly. Both of my grandparents are gone now, but the lessons I learned from them will be with me forever. The door to my grandparents' home was always open to my brothers and me. They gave us unconditional love. We always knew there were goodies in the refrigerator. After my father died, it was my grandparents who helped buy food and clothing. I saw two people of modest means give generously to others. Neither went to college, but they were able to pass on their wisdom: appreciate life's gifts. One day I hope to be as good a grandfather to my grandchildren as my grandparents were to me. They will be able to drop in on me anytime.

Michael from Wyncote, Pa.

DEAR MICHAEL: I have a feeling your grandparents would be very proud of you.