Handbag and Book: Riding the coasters w Joanne Guidocio #amusementpark #rollercoaster #leatherhandbag

May 1997.  I was in the thick of my teaching career and very much involved in the extra-curricular life of the school. So, when admin asked for volunteers, I agreed (along with four other teachers) to accompany a bus-load of students to Canada’s Wonderland, the 330-acre theme park located in Vaughan, Ontario about 40 kilometers (25 miles) north of Toronto.

It would be my first time visiting the theme park, and I was determined to go on a few roller coaster rides. Having shied away from the experience during my childhood and adolescence, I knew it was now or never. To ensure that I wouldn’t back out, I shared my goal with colleagues and students.

While discussing outfits with the female supervisors, I quickly learned that none of my leather clutches or totes would be appropriate. So, I rushed out that afternoon to shop for a stylish, small and roomy (love my oxymora!) purse that wouldn’t interfere with my roller coaster experience.

My manifestation skills must have been very strong. I found the perfect Mann* purse, a lovely shade of cognac brown leather with two pouches and a cross-body strap. The following day, I went on three challenging roller coaster rides and lived to tell the tale.

*Leather by Mann, founded by Karnig Mann in 1970, was a family-run business that specialized in leather furniture and accessories. Unfortunately, the Guelph and Kitchener stores have closed.

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Where to find Joanne: Website

Joanne, I worked at an amusement park. We put a couple of things in our pockets OR tucked in our shirt and put a wallet inside. LOL