Sharon Bott comments

As a mother of three, I can say with quite a bit of experience that it's not really possible to avoid traveling during rush hour. It may be easier for those with one child but that might not be the case. Mothers have to coordinate the schedules of their entire family and may have to be in certain places at specific times, just like those with no children. A mother may be exhausted or overburdened and unable to carry her baby for the length of time her trip requires, her child may need a nap, or she may be managing multiple children and using the stroller as a means to help maintain order and safety among her kids. Children feed off of each other's energy and it can cause dangerous situations in a train station. It would be nice if we could control our children all the time but even well behaved children struggle sometimes. Women may be carrying several shopping bags but that doesn't mean they are spendthrifts and lazy. Growing children need clothes and sometimes adults do too. When you are in charge of shopping for, say, five people it can pile up quickly. Now imagine carrying a huge shopping load while wearing a heavy baby in a wrap. The weight adds up quickly. Now imagine trying to keep one or two other hungry, tired children in order as you do this. A cafe may not be wise or practical in this situation. I am happy to say that my experience in Japan suggests that most people have been encouraging, helpful, kind, and understanding of my situation and I am deeply thankful for it. As for taking over cafes with other mommy friends, I confess that I have done it on occasion but have appreciated some of the helpful ideas to do so more thoughtfully. However, please realize that most moms aren't able to do this daily. It is a rare treat.