Here’s today’s situation, there I am, 3 kids in the car, pulling into the parking lot at the commissary, and low and behold, there it is! A spot right up at the top of the lane! Just out of the exit, even better! And it’s not a reserved officer spot either! Awesome! I won’t have to walk my kids through the lot! Just as I’m ready to swing my large SUV around the corner and into the spot, this truck comes around from the other side and zips in. Frustrating enough. But what really upset me, the occupant of the truck was one male officer. One guy. So now, because he took the spot right up front, I have to park about 20 spaces back and navigate my 4 yr ds and 2 yr dd through the lot while carrying my 6 month ds. Now I have to dodge vehicles attempting to pull in or out of spots or just driving around the lot, and keep my kids safe. Ever try getting a 2 yr old to hold the hand of a 4 yr old? At least I can count my blessing that my 2yr old actually held her brother’s hand on the way in, makes navigating the parking lot a little easier when we are all attached.
Now, I know I’m guilty of it occasionally. Taking that top spot when the kids aren’t with me. But I usually try to park near the back when I’m shopping without the kids. I would prefer to leave those top spots for the moms and elderly. The folks who really need to be that much closer to the exit. At certain stores, I’ve even seen designated Pregnant Mommy spots. HooRah for that! As a formerly pregnant mommy, I can tell you, it’s no picnic to have to waddle your way through the lot, esp when you’ve been told you are supposed to be resting, but if you don’t do the shopping, no one will be able to eat for the next week. On base, there are the normal handicapped spots, and then there are several spots designated for officers of varying ranks. I understand, it’s a respect thing. I would just like to see more of those Pregnant Mommy spots at food stores, department stores, and malls around the country. And please, if you are shopping alone, have some courtesy and park a few spots back. Let the young mother struggling with 1, 2, 3, or more kids park closer to the exit. She will really appreciate it, even she never gets to thank you personally.