What gets on your last nerve? Gum smacking? Running late? That driver who turns a four-way stop into a confusing game of “No, YOU go”?

Before one of our Rules of Engagement book launches, my co-author and best friend, Susan M. Baganz, and I sat down at her home in Wisconsin to answer questions readers had asked us.

This question took us beyond writing and straight into everyday life: What are your pet peeves?

Naturally, we had a few things to say—and a few laughs along the way.

Smacking, Licking, and One Very Innocent Dog

My list started with sounds. People smacking their gum or making smacking noises while eating? Those sounds can send me looking for a quieter corner.

Apparently, dogs licking their bones belong on my list, too.

Susan’s dog, Cooper, had been happily enjoying his bone the night before. He was simply being a dog. Meanwhile, I was discovering that my patience had a soundtrack—and that wasn’t it.

Poor Cooper. He didn’t know he was helping us prepare for an interview.

When Pet Peeves Point to Something Deeper

Susan shared that disrespect bothers her, whether it’s directed toward her or someone else. That led us to another pet peeve: chronic lateness.

She made an important distinction. A delayed arrival because of little children, an accident, or a train is one thing. Life happens, and those moments call for grace.

A pattern of arriving late to everything feels different to her. Being on time is one way she shows others that their time matters.

Susan also likes arriving a little early so she can settle in before a conversation. That certainly sounds better than rushing through the door with your “hair on fire,” as we joked in the video.

It’s interesting how an everyday irritation can reveal something we value. Underneath Susan’s frustration with lateness is a desire for respect and thoughtful connection.

The Four-Way Stop Standoff

I don’t generally struggle with road rage, but a four-way stop can test my good intentions.

You know the moment: someone waves for you to go when it isn’t your turn. Then the waving becomes more insistent while you’re trying to follow the proper order.

I appreciate kindness. I also appreciate knowing whose turn it is!

Tailgating made our list, too, along with Susan’s frustration with drivers who linger in the highway’s left lane when they have room to move over.

Of course, she acknowledged that she has occasionally realized she needed to move over herself. Sometimes we’re the person having the pet peeve. Sometimes we’re the person inspiring it.

That thought can keep us humble.

Friendship Leaves Room for Differences

Susan described herself as a slow-burn person who doesn’t get angry quickly. I described myself as a recovering hothead—and I’m thankful for the progress!

Our reactions aren’t identical. Neither are the things that bother us. Yet we can talk about those differences, laugh together, and learn a little more about each other.

As friends and co-authors, we enjoy these chances to let readers meet the women behind the Rules of Engagement military romance series. Sometimes that means talking about books. Sometimes it means talking about gum, punctuality, and a dog with a bone.

Connection often begins in those ordinary conversations.

Your Turn: What’s Your Pet Peeve?

Now we’d love to hear from you!

What everyday thing gets on your nerves—and why? Is there a funny story behind it, or does it connect to something you value?

Share in the comments. Keep it kind, and remember: Cooper was unavailable to defend himself. 🐾

Want to spend more time with our stories? Explore the Rules of Engagement books at DeeDee’s store.