I know IABU so please don't come at me. Looking for advice more than anything.
DH & I have lived in flats in cities for a decade or so (where nobody had much to do with their neighbours, in my experience). We've now bought our first home, a 3-bed detached, as youngish professionals in our 30s in a leafy suburb where most people around us are at least double our age. I'm sure the neighbours are retired - theres a fence & bush separating our backgardens, and have on occasion heard them have their dinner outside this summer.
Now for the awkward bit - I have never spoken to them. The longer it gets, the more awkward I feel. For context, we moved in beginning of this year so its been about 6 months (but they may think its been longer, the previous owners moved out about 9-10months ago and were close with the neighbours). DH cuts the grass with headphones in but has said hello (he also doesn't get my issue). For months, I genuinely didn't see them. Not hugely surprising as I work awkward hours (night shifts etc) and therefore often sleep most of the day. Its not a good time to stop and chat before/after a 12hr shift so admittedly I walk straight to/from the car (though I dont think I saw them on these quick dashes). I do recall seeing them once however but this was a day I finished work mid-afternoon and drove home in tears, they were in their front garden and I didnt want that to be our first meeting so I genuinely drove past my own house, went to get petrol, wiped the tears and came home by which time they werent there (bad day, work-related). I'm fine in social situations but lack the confidence to go knock and say hi - I genuinely find this hugely awkward.
The issue now is, whilst both of us were at work, I've had a note to say a parcel has been delivered to #26. Looked this up, wanted it to be anyone but them, but its them.
What do I do now? I know the obvious thing would be to go knock on their door but I cant tell you how awkward/anxious this makes me feel (completely unreasonable I know). Any suggestions? DH is currently away, not back till Monday, I could ask him but I want to be able to deal with what is really a minor non-issue. Advice? Please be gentle.