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A Glimpse into My Bag



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What a person chooses to carry around with them all day can say a lot about a their priorities and personality. What would someone glimpse about who you are if they happened to catch a glimpse into your bag?


A few months ago, I reached a point in my motherhood journey that was exciting to me. Now that one of my children was potty trained and the other was no longer a newborn, I felt ready to reclaim an aspect of my individual identity as a woman… I was ready to use my own purse again instead of our diaper bag. I know this may sound silly, but if you know, you know.


I started thinking about some of my requirements:

  • to be as light weight and hands free as possible, but also prepared with essentials

  • room for a full-sized water bottle

  • a safe place for my sunglasses

  • capacity to sometimes carry my Bible, iPad or Kindle

  • a wallet that has the option to function as a small purse or clutch

With these in mind, I started to patiently research for just the right bag… is there is such a thing? I ended up looking for a well-constructed leather backpack that would be durable for daily use, distribute the weight of my bag to both shoulders and allow me the free use of my hands to wrangle and pick up kiddos. Leather has a classic look that can be softened by accessorizing with scarves and can work with casual or slightly elevated looks. I ended up finding a great option at Portland Leather Company that has enough room for the essentials listed above.


I also found the perfect wallet by Coach. The main pocket has room for my sun glasses and a small pouch that holds my keys, hair ties, perfume, lip balm, pen and lotion. It also has the option to be used as its own clutch or handbag by attaching a strap. This has been perfect for evening engagements or popping into a store when I don't need to take my whole backpack. When I'm not using the strap, I store it in a mini purse along with some business cards and my airPods. I usually leave my phone and trusty hand sanitizer in the front pocket of the backpack for easy access, and that's it!


I've been using this system for nearly 6 months and haven't strayed from it. Before kids I enjoyed switching purses with outfits and seasons, but for the time-being it's been wonderful to express my individual style while easily being able to keep track of my essentials.


Before thinking it through to this depth, I often felt unprepared, lost numerous water bottles and damaged several pairs of sunglasses. My over-filled bags would really hurt to carry, even for my strong husband. Investing in this intentional system has equipped me to be a more prepared mom who truly feels like a beautiful woman, ready to seize the adventures of the day!


A few other considerations that have been helpful:

  1. Clean out daily - Whenever we get home from an outing, I make it a point to take out any snack wrappers or receipts that may have found their way into my bag. I also use this time to take a quick inventory and replace any of my essentials.

  2. Have a dedicated home - I hang my bag in the same place when not in use - on a hook right next to the door which is convenient for coming and going - no more frantic searches as we're trying to get out the door!

  3. Don't over-fill - I was conscientious to select a bag that fits what I need and not much else. Doing so has eliminated a lot of chaoric moments of searching and spilling while out and about.

  4. Think about your bag as an extension of your elegance - Consider what you want to express to yourself and to others though your bag. This can include your style (which I have defined for myself as polished, practical and playful), your priorities and what adventures you want to be prepared for!

A Glimpse into My Bag:

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None of these links are sponsored or affiliate, I just wanted to share a few of my favorite things with you!


1. Portland Leather Company "Almost Perfect” Laptop Bag - You can save quite a bit by shopping their "Almost Perfect” line. If my bag came with any imperfections, I couldn't tell you what they are.


2. Owala 32-oz Insulated Water Bottle - Fully leak proof, has a sipping spout and a straw (which is great for sharing with kids) and a handle great for holding or clipping onto something else.


3. Coach Pop-Up Messenger - This bag was a sweet birthday from my parents that perfectly fits my needs… I know I'll be using it for years.


4. Nite Ize Handy Keychain clip


5. Kiel's Ultimate Strength Hand Salve - My absolute favorite hand cream, I have dry hands and live in a very dry and hot climate - this stuff is extremely effective and light weight. It contains eucalyptus which has a luxurious scent and a cooling sensation when you put it on.


So, what's working about your bag system right now, and what's not? What do you want to express through your bag and what changes might you want to make? What are some of your favorite accessories that you want to share? Comment below!

 
 
 

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