"Blue Q, Now I’m No Longer Alone”

While sauntering around a Washington DC souvenir shop during my Cherry Blossom Festival trip, from across the store, I spotted a delectable tote that required further scrutiny. Now, dear readers, this was not a tote with one of our forefathers featured in a fancy wool coat with brass buttons, a white wig and leggings (how could they wear all that paraphernalia on hot days like we are having now, I ask you…was it not as hot back then?), this bag featured our First Lady on a swing in a fabulous red dress (my favorite color) wearing pumps and pearls (BoNuS!)…very June Cleaver…Beav would be proud. Needless to say, I paid the required coin and that bag promptly came home (or is it came home promtly?) with me…you may have noticed it in my “Shoebie” post. The bag is made of recycled materials, and since I’m trying to be conservation-minded, I was intrigued and decided to do some research on the company….what I found was a treasure trove of creativity, color, cleverness, and all around awsomeness (also not a word, I know, but once again, humor me) perfect for toting your groceries, knitting projects, or as I used it, as a beach bag!

The company that made this terrific tote, Blue Q, was started by two brothers in the late 80’s. It is located in Pittsfield, Massachusetts and the work force of disabled and non-disabled individuals create their amazing products from 95% recycled, post consumer material. 1% of the sale of Blue Q bags and stainless steel water bottles support The Nature Conservancy which works to conserve and protect ecologically important lands and waters. Blue Q's website explains that they do not have traditional “bricks and mortar” stores, but, clicking on their charming webventory (you’re not “in” a store so inventory did not seem right) will be more enjoyable than a visit to any mall, even with a sale, plus coupons, and a really good pretzel. In addition to tote bags, they sell tin banks, crazy-named teas, magnets, stickers, temporary tattoos, t-shirts, and a bunch of other fun stuff. My bag is called "Mighty Michelle" and they offer other complete lines of bits and pieces with titles such as "Boss Lady" "La-La Land" and "Dirty Girl." Check out Blue Q and send me a photo if you make a purchase and I'll post it! Besides Mrs. Obama, I share my recent acquisitions…they are gifts…shhhhh, it's a secret!

Hey, post a comment and become eligible to win a Blue Q zipper pouch. This stuff is really adorable...you should really check it out