There's nothing I like more than supporting small business owners working hard to make a quality product, contributing to our economy and workforce. I like the idea of going back to a production based economy (right now we, as in the United States, are mainly an import nation).

Maggie Bags is another such company that I've come to know and love lately, for three very simple reasons:

1. They make amazing handbags, cosmetic cases, clutches, messenger bags, diaper bags, YOU NAME IT
2. They're home-grown, in the sense that they are manufactured right here in the USA. Tennessee, to be exact.
3. They are 100% eco friendly. Get this: they use seat belts that would otherwise be tossed out and never used, and create gorgeous, slightly-edgy, slightly-classic bags that will literally last longer than you do. For reals.

Here's the bag I own:

...And let me tell you, it has gotten me through a lot over the past few weeks. With the end of my psychiatry rotation came study sessions, bonus point quizzes, and the Big Exam. It got me through it all with nothing more than a few potato chip crumbs at the bottom of the bag. I tossed everything at it: water bottles, pens, granola bars, books...it handled it all with panache.

I guess I'm not surprised, since it's made of material that literally is created to save your life and withstand G forces stronger than...well, I don't know, actually. Superman? Yeah, let's go with that. I'm not good with physics. I just know that this is strong stuff.

Thank you for letting me wax poetic about the benefits of supporting US small businesses like Maggie Bags...this holiday season, they could all really use your shopping power.