I figure I may have to call in someone to check on the pool. I dont feel like I should impose on the neighbors this much though. And if they dont know squat about pool water then they probably will be somewhat reluctant to take on this responsability.I just dont know if it is too much to ask.

Keeping the pool covered is going to be mandatory as the leaves would surely clog the skimmer up in short order. That is unless I enlist the neighbor's services. I sometimes clean the leaves from the skimmer 3 times daily.

Im not yet defeated on this working but it sure seems like a lot of ifs here on my situation. I appreciate all the advice chem geek! I have not done any water testing today yet. Will get to that though soon.