I would imagine, especially at the prices those days
I don't really regret doing so. The trick was slight of hand (and I've got a whole lot of illusions I can do) and to always buy something - or be with someone who'd be buying something. If you had a friend, you could use them to your advantage without even letting them know.
I did get a bit overboard with it - but I still don't regret it. I was good at perfecting my 'art'.
You know the big boxes of donuts? I once stole a big box of donuts while wearing a t-shirt and shorts. The person I was with was my cover and they knew nothing about it until I pulled them out after we were in the car and down the road. They went in the back of my shorts with the rest covered by the back of my shirt and the trick was to walk a line to and from the counter - and then out of the store - without ever showing more of my back than I wanted to.
High calorie items were the goal. You can be hungry, so long as you have the calories you need. Hunger sucks, but having the calories is the important part.
I remember my older brother once stealing a bamboo fishing pole from a local sporting goods store when we were young, it went from his shoe to his armpit under his clothes, he walked in limping and limped back out. I was always too afraid I would get caught to even try to take things
I took some stupid courses and had a magic show at a couple of points in my life. One of the most interesting courses was "Becoming An Everyday Genius". I learned a ton of illusions, how to juggle, some card tricks, some classic tricks like the rings, etc... So, a buddy of mine and I had a magic show.
It's all about perspective - where are their eyes going to be AND if you can direct their eyes elsewhere.
It's early but we're having a small Thanksgiving today.
Not too many people will be by.
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