In a world full of an ever increasing number of minimalists, I stand alone. I'm a collector and lover of all the things. I pride myself on having something in a pinch whether it be at work, home, or on the run. Does someone need a band-aid, a strand of twine, a birthday card? I gotchu. There's some deep comfort in feeling stocked up and ready for anything. As strong as this desire burns inside of me, I also need to dwell in a neat and organized world, which means no junk or garbage hanging around. My bag is my pride and joy, it's a total Mary Poppins experience. So I thought I'd share some of the most essential things that I carry all around creation with me. 

1. First Aid Kit

This is pretty obvious, especially if you're a mom. I've created my own inside a small zipper pouch. I keep band-aids, Advil, tampons, antacid chews, a thermometer, Monistat chafing cream, chapstick, and anything else that finds it's way into the mix. 

2. Crayons 

I always have a zipper bag with crayons, pens, pencils and a pocket notebook inside. This has come in handy SO many times at restaurants or in situations where there's a wait with my kids. Most restaurants supply your kids with crayons, but some don't and when you have crayons on hand, it can be a total lifesaver. 

3. Sewing Kit

There have been so many times when I've needed a button sewed back on in a pinch or I've been traveling with friends or someone else who needs a sewing kit. They usually have tiny scissors in them too which can come in handy in a multitude of situations, and you don't need to worry about getting them confiscated when flying because they're always under that 4-inch limit. 

4. Wine Key

Does this even need explaining? I didn't think so. 

5. Makeup 

At least once a week I have an evening meeting following my work day. I don't have time to run home between, so it's nice to have a makeup kit to freshen up. I always use sample sizes from either Sephora or Ulta, most of which I've picked up as rewards. I'm repeatedly so thankful to have makeup on the go. I keep a brush and bobby pins in the bag too. 

6. 50spf spray Sunscreen

This is a summertime need but, when you need it, you need it! I have tattoos that I always protect in the sun so if I'm at a yard party, or a flee market and realize that I'm spending a lot of time in direct sun, I'm so thankful to have sunscreen on hand. This is, of course, true with my kids' precious perfect skin too. There are so many times when we don't think of sunscreen ahead of time and it's not until we're baking in the sunshine that we realize we need it. 

7. Hand Sanitizer

It's no replacement for washing your hands with hot soapy water, but we've all been there when hand sanitizer is a life saver. 

8. Baby Wipes

From spills in the car to chocolate on my kid's faces, baby wipes are essential. They can also be used for scraped knees before putting on a band-aid. Baby wipes are cheaper than wet ones and they're totally safe to use on everything from leather to baby skin! Cheetos are still my enemy but baby wipes help there too ;) 

9. Tape Measurer 

I've already told you that I'm a collector so it should come as no surprise that I'm always on the hunt for new art, furniture, and decor. Decisions are made much easier if you have a tape measurer and can determine whether or not your space can accommodate whatever it is that has caught your eye. 

10. Packing Tape

Somehow I always find myself in need of tape when I'm on the go. I've found that clear packing tape fits all my needs best. From packing up a flat rate box to posting a sign to wrapping a quick gift on the go. I've used packing tape in all those situations, but it can also be used in an emergency situation to wrap a wound. Packing tape can be used to create a handle or a tag. It's versatility make it something I'm reaching for way more than you might expect. 

Well, there you have it! Now I will admit that I usually carry these things in a backpack that comes with me wherever I go, but I also use a smaller purse for running into the store. I don't need my Mary Poppins bag when I'm paying for gas. These ten essentials are the skeleton, but I always find myself lugging around many more necessary items. Find what works for you, and never find yourself in a situation with a bottle of wine and no way to open it ;)