I agree with most of the pointers brought up by Julie in her letter to the editor last week. In fact, I employ most of them on a daily basis.

Sure, the best option would be to shop without children. However, like every mother on the planet, I am stretched thin sometimes. I multitask, I try to fit more hours in a day, I try to do the best I can.

However, I do not agree that toys and sugary treats by checkout stands are a reality of life and therefore just need to be tolerated.

About 200 years ago owning slaves was just a reality of life.

About 70 years ago segregation was just a reality of life.

And about 30 years ago using a cute and lovable cartoon character named Joe Camel for cigarette advertising was a reality of life.

As you can see, reality changes, when people are willing to walk the mile to change it.

Lana Kogan, Redmond