What's in my bag?

No, it's not a commercial for what's in my wallet. Over on Work it, Mom, there's a contest with a great prize: a Veronica London Business Tote. I took a picture of my schoolbag with its contents, and patted myself on the back for not having to clean out a pile of junk.

Just for fun, I thought I'd share.

From the left, moving clockwise:

• binder of overhead transparencies (for planning the week's writing workshop)
• folder of above transparencies in need of copying first thing Monday morning
• nice note from former student
• picture depicting practical joke from Secret Santa
• assorted pens and pencils, highlighter advertising credit union
• star stickers
• tri-fold containing instructions for using automated substitute - finder system
• jump drive (containing templates for substitute plans, among other files)
• social studies papers awaiting correction
• calendar (with bunny pictures on cover)
• Winnie-the-Pooh folder containing phone tree, research articles, and coupons for school supplies
• inhaler (rarely needed, but when I do need it, I can't wait)
• wrist splint (darn district database is not teacher-friendly; I feel physical, not emotional, pain after entering my class' scores)
• and the bag itself, a bargain I found in the luggage dept. two years ago

As I looked over this picture and listed the contents, I felt good about the absence of "junk" in the bag. I've learned to be realistic with my workload on weekends and only bring home that which I can really accomplish. Any more, and I bring home a heavy bag that puts strain on my back and stretches my guilt reflex. I also feel good about both the green and the frugal elements shown here. The binder and both folders are re-used. The jump drive was a piece of swag Husband brought home from a work event. The stickers were donated to the school, and I picked up a good stack for classroom use. I paid (sale price) for the calendar, and then La Petite helped me personalize it with bunny photos. The messenger bag, after being marked down once and then on clearance at 70% off, ended up costing me $6. Yes, $6.

And contrary to the evidence below, Buttercup does not go to school with me.

Stumble It!