I’m hitting a phase where normal, everyday sounds are officially turning into aggravating noise.

I’m not talking about my constant companion, tinnitus. And I'm not talking about understandable stuff like a grandkid crying.

It's the mundane, background stuff: cars and bikes cruising up and down the street, the endless weekend symphony of leaf blowers and chainsaws, doors closing (not even slamming), and neighbors shouting for their kids.

Even the school bell down the road, the local golf course’s weather siren, emergency sirens in the distance, the ducks squawking at the lake a block away, and dog barking (including my own dogs!) are suddenly grating on my nerves.

But here’s the irony. I still have to turn the TV, music, and sports commentary way up just to hear the dialogue.

Selective hearing? Aging ears? I don't know, but I just want some peace and quiet. Tell me I'm not the only one.