my 99 ford escort starts fine but when i come to a stop is feels like its trying to die. it sputters and when i start to go it fi guess skips a little like it is trying to go and then it goes and i t feels fine until i come to a stop again. what is wrong with it.

Most likely a vacuum leak. Check your vacuum hoses on the intake manifold.

Check PCV valve, that fixed the exact problem for me for $6.
Here is the location diagram http://autorepair.about.com/library/a/1f/bl629f.htm
If that does not do it, consider replacing idle air control valve
http://autorepair.about.com/library/illustrations/bl847lib.htm

I found my air cleaner housing full of oil with about an inch of oil sitting on bottom.

Obviously I was thrilled with a $6 fix.

This forum helped me find the solution with a 3 year old thread.

Thanks to all who posted.