DC's Bag Tax in Effect

Washington DC's 5 cent fee on plastic and paper bags went into effect while we were recovering from New Year's Eve celebrations.  Remember to take your own bags when you go shopping anywhere that sells food or alcohol, or risk looking like me whenever I decide I don't really need a bag and wander off into the night, spilling my tortilla chips and Tastykakes all over the sidewalk.

Some retailers give a discount if you bring your own bags.  Thrift stores are a great place to pick some up to leave in your car or tuck into your briefcase.  They may be about the same price as those you can buy in the grocery or drug store, but you can pick a style and size that makes you happy.  If you're like me, a cute bag means you're more likely to actually carry it around with you.

Edited: If "free" is your favorite word, a friend tipped us off to a bag giveaway in the Golden Triangle, running this week and next during the lunch rush.

Save the river in style!

♥