Putting the Material back into Materialism

I bought the bag. (Not the one pictured... a different one.)

Here is my reasoning/ justification:

1. The bag I bought earlier this summer was very uncomfortable on longer rides. The strap was not padded and cut into the shoulder when hauling a heavy load.  Also the Rickshaw laid across my lower back which was causing back pain I never had when I was using a backpack. 

2. The Seagull fits snugly, like a backpack. The Rickshaw slid around like crazy- needing readjustment every couple of blocks. It sometimes even ending up in my lap when riding on cobblestone. I've had more than one close call when trying to finagle it back into place while riding. 

3. The Seagull is 100% waterproof. I got caught in what seemed like a monsoon the other day and it would have been nice to not worry about the contents of my bag. 

4.  The Seagull is a locally manufactured work of art.  For me, buying this bag is a little like buying a Turkish Rug in Istanbul.  It's a beautiful, indigenous piece of culture that is intimately connected to the place.  It's almost like buying a small piece of the city to take with me all over the globe. 

5. It's hip and I can be a materialistic bastard sometimes. 

Bag Lust

Shortly after I bought this bag, I found out that Columbus, OH is home to one of the premier handmade messenger bag companies, Seagull Bags. In fact, this company is known internationally in the cycling community for just about being the best (although less popular than Chrome or Timbuktu).

So I biked up to their factory today in Clintonville, where I found a modest room filled with huge rolls of fabric and five hipsters sewing away at works in progress.  The small entry way was filled with an eclectic assortment bags and accessories, including hand-sewn cycling caps and hip pouches. After examining the product in person I was impressed at the meticulous detail and craftsmanship that went into each bag.  Right now I am trying to justify how purchasing a second messenger bag could possibly be reconciled with the life of simplicity that I have the desire to live.  So far, I can't do it. 

Rickshaw Bagworks

I just invested in this messenger bag by Rickshaw Bagworks. It may not have a snazzy seat-belt buckle like Chrome's messenger bags, but it is made from one whole piece of fabric to eliminate waste. I got Barn Red- which wasn't necessarily my favorite color, but it's hopefully a little more visible for all of those friendly cars who share the road with me. Besides, red is an earth tone in Sedona right?