Everything is in the Beach bag!

I was wrong then and I'm often wrong. Oh well, live and learn.

Anyway, nowadays the "mold" has been broken . . .

You can find them short, tall, fat, and slim - sounds like people, doesn't it? You can certainly find a bag to match anyone's personality. From dog lovers to pure beach enthusiasts, it's the "invasion of the beach bags"!

First, for dog lovers: Did you know there are bags to even accommodate your precious pooch? They come in sizes that allow small dogs to stand, sit, and lay down comfortably, and have view windows so that he can see out (and so you can check in to see how your pup is doing).

Many are available in wacky colors and far-out patterns to entertain you and transport your best friend in style.

Woven bags are now all the rage, with their chunky styles and wowing colors. Okay to get wet and no problem in the sand, woven bags are easy to clean and even easier to carry, what with their convenient shoulder straps - in fact, they're perfect for your shelling excursions!

The classic cloth beach bags never go out of season and are wonderful for toting any of your earthly possessions.

With clever internal pockets, including built-in cell phone cases, you'll have no problem storing (and finding) even your smallest accessories.

How about personalizing your cloth beach bag? Have your own personal photo applied to the front for added style!

Plastic beach bags are also wonderful, as they are completely water-resistant, keep sand off of your possessions, and are very reasonably priced.

They range from bags decorated with holograms to the kind that are completely and totally clear (but remember - people can see everything you're carrying). Match them to your outfit or personality, there's no way you can go wrong!

Use your beach bag as an everyday purse, or an everything-including-the-kitchen-sink tote. Keep your necessities close at hand.

My personal choice is a large, sturdy bag with heavy straps - you can find them designed with whatever theme you like.

But that's just my opinion!