I know what you mean exactly. I was brought up to respond to "inquiries", etc., and it seems rude to ignore pings.
But unless someone is specifically asking me a question or answering a question that I asked, I often don't respond.
Thank you for the advice. :) I needed it!
Okay hubby is running around cleaning and is clearly growing irritated that I'm on the pc and listening to news and not helping. I'd better go help "do stuff." :)
Of course, later, he'll be playing F.E.A.R. for a long time while I make dinner and pick up. ;)