Tucker and Bloom — STORIES — Not So Private Parts

Growing up, my mother had many nicknames for me. First, there was "Sister Bell." For some reason, I reminded my mother of a little old lady. My other personal favorite was "Bag lady." As a toddler, I would go into my mother's closet and gather all the bags that I could find and wear them. I would then proceed as if I had somewhere to be...some place to go... with all of my bags in tow.

Fast forward many years and many moons later, and you will find that I still have an affinity for bags. I believe that what one carries in his or her bag, says a lot regarding what is important and necessary to its carrier. In fact, if you take a quick look in your bag, (hopefully, as you're reading this entry) you will most likely notice that the majority of things that you keep on your person are very important... probably even "desert island" important. What you carry in your bag, not only bears witness to who you are as an individual, but also to the things that you value as resources throughout your everyday life. I can still remember the things that my mother carried in her bag. If you were one of the lucky individuals who had the privilege to take a peak into my mother's bag, you would find her checkbook, lipstick, and an array of pens. My mother always had writing pens.

Today, I have partnered with my friends over at Tucker and Bloom, a functionality centered, Luxury Bag brand based out of Nashville, TN. "Tucker & Bloom is a family business with over 30 years in the bag industry, focusing on organizational products and clean design." Since the beginning, Tucker & Bloom has manufactured bags with a strong emphasis of sincere individuality in mind. I am absolutely in love with my Ranger Market Tote. Its comprised of wax canvas... its super roomy, with ample pockets (to store sippy cups and more). AND... it is water resistant (just in case those sippy cups spill.) Hands down, its pretty amazing!! I truly believe that every mama should have a ranger tote. It made my life a bit less hectic, and definitely a bit more organized on the go.

A a lot like our mother's bags, I believe there are important things that we should keep as resources / necessities to survive this wild, crazy, messy... and yet still, very beautiful journey called motherhood.

1. Flexibility.... Motherhood is crazy. Planners are amazing. However, leave it to a blow out diaper to completely throw your morning/day schedule off. Having flexibility with your bag is a must. Remaining fluid is key. Otherwise, you may just drive yourself and those around you mad.

2. Self Care... As the saying goes, If Mama aint happy, no one's happy. I truly believe in keeping Self Care in your bag of necessities. Allowing yourself moments to breathe, is vital. Try to consistently hold space for yourself, so that you can better hold space for those of whom you hold dear.

3. Nourishment.... It goes without saying that keeping nourishment/food close by, is imperative. Whether you are breastfeeding or not, YOU are exerting energy, day in and day out. However, I would challenge mamas to ask yourselves: What are you feeding your spirit... your mind? What thoughts are you nibbling on? Are you staying inspired? Are you currently depleted? We must stay nourished in order to continue to nourish those connected to us.

4. Gratitude... Carrying gratitude in our bag is key. We must remain grateful for the air moving throughout our lungs... our arms... our legs... all of the little things that make up the big picture. When we practice gratitude, we begin the journey of valuing all that we have... well beyond its monetary value. Let us recognize and appreciate all people, places, and things for who & what they are... no more... no less.

Lastly, in the spirit of gratitude, Tucker and Bloom has offered all of you #NotSoPrivateParts readers, a very special Mother's Day 20% off Discount!!! Just simply use the Promo Code: MUTHALUVA @ checkout. Promo Code Valid through the end of May 2017.