Ok, serious answer since freda has been so good as to write her own views in detail.

Here is mine. I also use a backpack, and often one of those trolleys, since I walk to and from the supermarket which is about a half a mile away.

When I get into line, I prepare as much as I can ahead of time. It's in my nature to do so. I tell the check-out clerk that I'll pack myself, and if it happens that I've had to wait for a long while until it's my turn, I do it in the most Zenlike of fashions. Maybe it's because of all the things that freda said that I've chosen to take up the challenge of being at my very best during the times which can become so very tedious. I smile and make pleasant conversation, and I do my best to be ready with my money and loyalty card (yeah yeah, but it's how I can afford to go see movies) so as not to hold up anyone behind me. I even check the grocery list once I've moved a little away from the cashier, so that if there's a mistake (and there often is) I can deal with it on my way out.

The only concession I make to the whole process and my desire for it to be a pleasant one for all concerned, is that I avoid going at busy times of the day. This helps a great deal and there is less stress all around.

That's it. I may be a mutant and only one of a kind, but I come home with what I set out to get, and I don't feel like I've been through the wars.

Peace Out, and Namaste.

..xx..e