Young friend's ride could be costly

If you are too young and timid to insist on this nonnegotiable when you are the driver, then you shouldn't be driving this little family around.

Take the safety issue as your primary reason to talk about this with your friend. I think it's absolutely great that you have been so helpful, and hope you can continue -- on a schedule that works for you.

She must make sure you have the appropriate baby carrier properly installed in your car. These are readily available secondhand, and the people at your local fire department will be happy to check it and help you install it securely.

And where, oh where, are your parents (yours and hers)? Your friend needs very basic parenting instruction, and you need help to assert yourself over what is a very important safety issue.