In a message dated 3/9/99 8:51:49 AM Central Standard Time,
[log in to unmask] writes:

<< We
 drive into our garages or stay at our separate jobs and shop in anonymous
 mega-stores where we don't see anyone we know.  >>
This is one reason I love where I live,, and whyI tell moms that one of the
best things they can do for themselves, is at least once every day, leave the
house, and go down the street to a store where someone knows them, wearing
their baby, so someone can tell them how nice it is to see them, how wonderful
the baby is, and how he/she is growing over time. Shopping in small
neighborhood stores where we are known ties us into the community, links us
with other adults, and reduces stress, IMHO. I did this every day with my
firstborn in the carrier at the start of the "witching hours". Now almost 13
years later store owners who see my son walk in the store, or me, say "I
remember when you used to wear him in that thing. "  LOL  It's a nice feeling
now, but it was a crucial and simple support then.
Judy LeVan Fram, Brooklyn, NY