You’re absolutely right that living with less plastic means more planning and prep work. But remembering to bring your own water bottle, mug, and bags is only difficult in the beginning. The more times you remember, the more ingrained the habit becomes.

I see you had one produce bag. I’m wondering if that bag was necessary. Most of our produce can be purchased “naked” without any produce bag at all.

The idea of purchasing secondhand furniture and housewares is a great one. That’s a way to not only avoid packaging but also spare the resources used to make brand new furniture in the first place.

I’m not sure what the straw was used for, but do you know about Glass Dharma drinking straws? I carry two sizes with me all the time, along with my reusable bamboo utensils. A glass straw is a great conversation starter.

Oh, by the way — those milk and juice boxes? Coated with plastic. They are layers of plastic, paper, aluminum, paper, plastic. Some people count them in their tallies and some people don’t. It’s up to you, but since they can’t be recycled most places, it’s good to be aware of how they’re made.

I’ll stop now because I’m sure other readers of this blog will have plenty of other comments/suggestions for you. Cheers!