What's in my bag? — Rebecca Kim

About the bag

My bag is the Madewell Medium Transport Tote in English Saddle ($158). This bag comes with an inner pocket, shoulder strap and free monogramming. It's durable and really is a bag that will last you a lifetime. The leather is sourced from a tannery that achieved a Gold Rating from the Leather Working Group (LWG), an organization that works to promote sustainable environmental practices in the leather industry. The size is perfect as it can fit your 13'' laptop and a book, but also is perfect to take to a future Farmer's Market outing to pickup some local produce and flowers. Available in different sizes, with a zipper, and in different colors!

What's inside the bag

Promptly Gratitude Journal ($30)

"Thoughtful weekly prompts to help you dive deeper into gratitude," — from their website. I've found that spending a couple of minutes a day thinking about and writing down something to be thankful for has been so valuable, especially during COVID and quarantine. Studies have shown there are many benefits to the simple act of writing down the things for which we’re grateful, including better sleep, fewer symptoms of illness, and more happiness for both adults and children.

Mario Badescu Facial Spray with Aloe, Rose & Herbwater ($12)

Winter months or living in a place where the weather is constantly dry can take a toll on your skin. I like to keep this in my purse to hydrate and refresh as needed. You can use the spray on bare skin or even with makeup on. It smells wonderful and leaves you with a fresh, dewey complexion.

Sakara Energy Bar ($29, 6 bars)

For those of you always on the go, this energy bar is just the thing you need. Each bar contains 10g of clean plant protein (organic hemp protein) and has a delicious chocolate flavor from raw dark cacao. Whether it's before a workout or in-between meals while you are going through your busy day, keeping a snack like this in your bag will help you keep up your energy and productivity.

Simple Shine Jewelry Cleaner - Shine Stick ($13)

I love wearing my earrings, rings and watches daily and sometimes they need a little cleaning to bring out that extra shine. I like to carry this as an addition in my makeup bag and use it before in person meetings or going to that much-needed happy hour after a long day in the office. It's small, lightweight, and makes a great gift as well.

What's in YOUR bag?

We want to hear about unusual and unusually useful items that you carry in your bag. It can be anything really: gym bag, travel bag, art bag, tool bag, etc. — or just a combination of your favorite items of the moment, that you would carry in a bag if you could. Start by sending an email to claudia@cool-tools.org with a photo of the things in your bag (you can use your phone). If you get a reply from us, fill out the form. We’ll pay you $50 if we run your submission in our What’s in my bag? newsletter and blog.