Carry On, Carry Everything

Since having children, my taste in bags has grown, in every sense of the word. I look for purses that are more tote-like with vast openings that let me hide almost all my belongings, and theirs, when going out. Not only am I carrying diapers for two, but also tons of snacks, small toys to circumvent any potential tantrums (especially in restaurants), makeup so I can at least look like I have it together, my wallet to buy more snacks, sunglasses to hide my exhaustion and again, help me look like I have it together, water bottles, extra clothes, keys, and the list continues. Gone are the days of cute clutches and small cross-body purses. Now, I do some serious heavy lifting during the day.

I stumbled across this bag on a recommendation from a family member who had just gifted a few. The vendor, Designs that Donate, which retails the tote, donates 10 percent of the proceeds to your charity of choice, and double bonus; the bag itself is huge. I could probably put another bag inside of it if I got really ambitious. Originally, I purchased it as a carry-on bag, as we had been traveling quite a bit this year with family. I was looking for an alternative to a rolling bag that I could throw over my shoulder when pushing the double stroller through the crowds. I have since used it to schlep everything from soccer gear to ballet attire, and even my own gym clothing. Also, the vertical stripe and monogram was a huge seller for me. I would basically monogram my children if I could.