Thank you steeleing1. It's all good. I know what kind of parent I am. I expected a little holier-than-thou when I made the post. I did and do feel safe there, but times they are a changin', right? Thank you again for the kind words.
Do NOT let your guard down just because you live in an "undeveloped" area of SoWal.
The SoWal population includes A LOT of transients--vacationers, maintenance folks, construction workers. You know, by the sinking feeling you felt in your gut when you found out that your 9 & 2 year old children climbed into and out of the car without your knowledge, something was amiss. You've been given the gift of a do-over; you've obviously learned a lesson.
As much as the cop wanted to be "officer friendly," his lack of judgement needs to be addressed by his superiors. He should be made to visit area schools and pre-schools (on his own time if necessary) and present lectures on "Stranger Danger."
I also mourn the loss of the safety and security we once felt not so long ago--but like you said, the times HAVE changed. A couple of days ago a man exposed himself to a girl at Destin Target. The nuts are out there, and they come in all varieties: tourists, cops, teachers, wealthy retirees, construction workers, and Florida Congressmen. Sadly, we must put tighter restrictions on our children in order to protect them.