I've never understood the attraction of shopping malls - being a bit claustrophobic - and stay as far away, as possible.

If you believe that one, then I'm a 29-year-old-perfect-size 6!

The mall is a perfect hangout for families with children and - although, most shopping centers tend to be very crowded and retail therapy can certainly get expensive - personally, I believe that the mall (along with the invention of the double-stroller and drive-thru Dunkin' Donuts) can be a very stimulating experience.

I'm sure my babies liked it, too.

We'd start at the food court, or wherever the restrooms are, with a vigorous window shopping/stroller workout, followed by a quick snack packed at home that morning.

[Note:  if accompanied by grandparents - include McDonald's, the candy store and a quick ride on the carousel.]

As they grew older, my kids understood going to the mall as a treat and I still remember celebrating my youngest daughter's first full week of potty-training (two summers ago) which happened to be the first (and last) time I decided to leave my beloved stroller and diaper bag behind.

It was a bittersweet experience.

I didn't have to lug around a bag, or worry about how I was going to warm milk bottles and baby food jars. No more crushed crackers, spilled Cheerios, blown-out diapers, or tiring rounds of "stroller derby."

I was at the mall and baby free!

Now, that all of my kids are in school full-time -- not to mention, my 13-year-old would much rather go to the mall with her friends...and their parents -- I can take advantage of whatever free time I have and venture out the mall, alone.

Last week, while shopping for an outfit suitable to wear for an upcoming wedding, I found myself keeping pace with two young mothers and their strollers.

They both looked at each other nervously, as I tried to explain how much I truly do miss my babies.

"Sorry, bad habit."

They graciously smiled and wondered if I had ever considered having more children.

I stopped laughing long enough to explain that letting my babies go is like giving up smoking cigarettes - often times I still find myself wanting one, badly - but, I certainly didn't need another one!

Nevertheless, I'm looking forward to becoming one of those mall-walking seniors and spoiling my grandchildren -- many, many years from now and if I'm lucky -- in the meantime, I am more than happy reminding others to enjoy their babies and, you know, to get out of my way!