As an NRA Woman, I am many things: a shooter, a hunter, a self-defender and (as you may have detected from a previous column) something of a purse enthusiast. As an editor of NRA Women, however, my appreciation of purses generally only finds expression in the ones that allow me to carry a handgun concealed.
That's why, as both an NRA Woman and one of the team that brings you NRAWomen.com, I'm so excited about our upcoming 150th NRA Annual Meetings & Exhibits, the NRA Women's Leadership Forum Luncheon and Auction and—most importantly—the Online Silent Auction, which is actually going on now. It's a rare, perfect opportunity to talk about purses that aren't designed for CCW ... just destined for my closet (unless you outbid me).
Mary Frances Beaded Guitar Bag
While browsing, I came across a thumbnail image of this beaded purse from designer Mary Frances and actually made a little whine in my throat similar to the one your golden retriever makes when he sees you going for the fridge.
Donated By Janet Nyce, NRA WLF Co-Chair, it's called the "On Tour" handbag. With its magnetic flap closure, crossbody strap and interior pocket, it measures 7" x 2" x 9.5" and I want it quite badly, obviously. Look at that intricate detail; it even has little beaded guitar strings! Bid against me here.
Axis Deer Hide Weekender Bag
A few years ago, I had my first in-the-wild encounter with a purse made from Axis deer hide and was struck by just how unique and beautiful this type of leather is. The hair-on-hide "pony" leather purse is a classic, but with Axis deer hide you're taking it one step up to something nobody else in the room will be carrying. This Weekender bag has already been the focus of one of our Auction Item Spotlights, and that makes me nervous for my credit-card balance. Generously donated by Shopping with Siobhan; the bidding page is here.
Multicolor Octopus SeaBag Tote
Generously donated by Vickie Bell, this SeaBag Tote may be at the bottom of this article, but it's at the top of my bidding list. The painterly, bioluminescent depiction of this purse's titular octopus wraps around the entire tote in an homage to Charles Darwin, who wrote that the creature's ability to change color delighted him. As for me, although this tote's art is a bit too cheerful to evoke one of my favorite author's most famous work, it will nonetheless tickle me every time I load it up with a towel, some sunblock and a copy of "The Call of Cthulhu." See you at the beach!
