it sounds like the answer is to carry a big purse!

i've brought my huge messenger bag into the store near my house, and i've never had a problem (knock on wood). i put it in the cart first thing, too, because i don't want to carry it around. there are other stores where i can buy things i need, so it wouldn't be wise for these people to hassle me or anyone else who's carrying a bag and doesn't behave suspiciously. i know not everyone has many stores to choose from, but other than those situations, there is no reason stores should be able to get away with bad service, which is what this is. i don't care how much people steal--*I* didn't steal anything. taking my bag is insulting. the store is private property, i guess, but it's property that the business paid for with my money. if they want any more of it, they better treat me well. if i really wanted to steal something, i'd put it in my pocket, anyway--i wouldn't take off my bag, rest it on my knee, unfasten it, and stuff a bunch of crap in it. should they have me turn my pockets out the entire time i'm in the store? it'd prevent theft right? should i check my jacket? what if you're wearing a jersey with pockets? you could put stuff in that. maybe you need to take that off too.

anyway, they can't have my bag. if they want me to put it in a locker with a key, that'd be acceptable. as long as they don't put the groceries in a bunch of plastic bags so i have to unpack them and repack the groceries into my bag once i get it back.

i love jamesdenver's advice. very helpful!