Ah, the time's they are a changin'. So said some 60's rock philosopher ( I think Bob Dylan, but am too lazy to research). The images I have included today show the changes to the handbag and its elevation to icon status. The bag on the left is a vintage Gucci bag from the 80's. Just think Dynasty. I'm sure that Joan Collins carried this bag. It was the status symbol for yuppies. It was the most recognizable logo of the time. While I can't find price info, a vintage bag like that will sell for an average of $350 dollars.

The bag on the right is from the new Gucci line. As you can see, the bag is more than the logo. It is about style and craftsmanship. The price, well over a thousand dollars. What we carry around today will probably look dated in 20 years. But it will be cool for now. A friend of mine asked me why the handbag was so important. Did it matter what I carried my stuff around in? I think it does. It is an extension of our personality and how you feel about yourself. Shallow? Maybe, but I feel a rush when some woman I don't know says "That is a great bag." We are not, in the end, defined by the things we possess. This I know.

So, now for a biking update. I am getting pretty consistent with the workout. Trying to ride every other day or as time permits. I slacked a bit this week, so will make up for it over the next four. The good news is that my padded shorts arrived this week. Hooray for saving my ass. Literally. Previously, I had ranted about the outdoor/athletic industry's bias towards the fat girl. Luckily, I found a few retailers that carry the big girl stuff. I ordered the shorts specifically because they are called the "Butt Pillow". They do work really well, but I think pillow is a bit of an overstatement. When I think pillow, I think soft, comfy, feathery. They don't quite live up to that image. But, I'm not complaining. It beats a sore ass anyday...