Editor's Note: Hundreds of Ann Landers' loyal readers have requested that newspapers continue to publish her columns. These letters originally appeared in 1999.

Dear Ann Landers: With help from various family members, I created the following credo for drivers:

Drive defensively. Remember that the driver next to you could be fighting sleep, distracted by a crying baby, combing her hair, daydreaming, lighting a cigarette, shaving, searching in the glove compartment, reading a map, applying makeup, talking on the phone, reading road signs, drinking, eating, adjusting the air conditioning or changing the radio station. That driver also might be suffering from any number of physical ailments that could alter his or her ability to see or hear.

Defensive driving means wearing a seat belt, no tailgating, obeying traffic rules and keeping your attention focused on the road. What I have written could mean the difference between life and death. — M.C., Alamo, Calif.

Dear Alamo: Thanks for reminding us that all drivers must be alert to the drivers nearby. All it takes is for one of those drivers to be distracted for a few seconds. The result could be a tragic accident.

Dear Ann Landers: I never cease to be amazed at the number of people who put an unfair burden on a bride and groom by carrying wedding presents to the reception. The couple then must arrange for one or two empty cars to haul the gifts to the couple's new home.

I believe this happens for two reasons: procrastination and laziness. Many guests wait until the last minute to buy a gift, and then they bring it to the wedding rather than having it delivered. Also, some guests don't want to be bothered with wrapping a gift for mailing.

You would do thousands of wedding couples a huge favor if you would urge guests to purchase and deliver gifts before the big day. If they can't manage to get the gift in advance, it is perfectly OK to send it a few days after the wedding. I hope you agree with me, Ann. — F.W. in Zionsville, Ind.

Dear Zionsville: You've hit on something that has stuck in my craw for ages. Thank you. Whenever I go to a wedding and see a table loaded with gifts, I feel sorry for the bride and groom or, more realistically, for their parents. What an imposition to expect them to take these presents home, keep the cards straight and so on. How much more considerate to have those gifts delivered several days before the ceremony.

Lonesome? Take charge of your life and turn it around. Write to receive Ann Landers' booklet "How To Make Friends and Stop Being Lonely." To find out more about Ann Landers and read her past columns, visit the Creators Syndicate Web page at www.creators.com.

ANN LANDERS