You’ve waved at them for a year. You still don’t know their name.

You recognize their coat before their face. You know which dog is theirs.

Somehow, introducing yourself now feels stranger than it would have on day one.

“We keep seeing each other, and I realized I never introduced myself.”

It can be that simple. Let the other person decide how much conversation they have time for.

The CDC includes getting to know neighbors among its ideas for building social connection.

Not every relationship has to begin with a major common interest.

If they mention a plant, a local shop, or tomorrow’s weather, you can start there.

There is no requirement to turn a first hello into a lasting friendship.

Their name. The dog’s name. That they’re moving in this week.

If you forget, you can ask again instead of avoiding them.

When the moment feels welcome, say hello with your name attached.

A small connection is still a connection.