Dear Annie: I can never get a word in edgewise with my chatty friend

Dear Annie: I have a friend I’ve known for over 20 years. As young marrieds, we lived around the corner from each other when our kids were growing up. Life put us in different states, but we continued to stay in touch by phone. However, I’ve noticed that when I call her, she continuously talks and talks about EVERYTHING — why her husband painted their garage floor this color instead of that color, every detail of her sons’ lives, conversations her grandkids have with others, etc.

It goes on and on for over two hours. After a while, my hand falls asleep. I don’t get a word in edgewise. I must admit, when I see her phone number pop up on my caller ID, I hesitate to answer because I know I will have to hear every detail of whatever is going on in her life. What should I do? — Chatty Friend

Dear Chatty: Sounds like she’s lonely, or maybe she sees you as a good person to vent to. Whatever the reason, learn to take control of the conversation. Give her a call with a conversation topic already in mind and say, “I really wanted to talk to you about X.” See where it goes. If she diverts to the same old self-indulgent small talk, you might have to be more assertive — or less available.