Tote a la Provencale

These French Provencal bags handmade in Montpellier, France, are large and roomy--ideal for farmers market shopping. You’ll be able to carry everything from produce to long-stemmed flowers. They’re also good for the beach or one would make a great bag for toting baby bottles and diapers. They come in a variety of traditional patterns. The large 24x17-inch bags can be washed.

French Provencal shopping bags, $50, from Dishes a la Carte, 5650 W. 3rd St., Los Angeles, (323) 938-6223 or call Lavender Blue, (323) 965-0565.

Emergency Rations

Two new sauces from Classico Creations are good to have on the pantry shelf for emergency dinners. You can stir either the Sun-Dried Tomato or Basil Pesto into hot pasta or serve them on the side with grilled chicken or seafood. Use them, too, as dips or spreads with crunchy bread or fresh veggies.

Sun-Dried Tomato and Basil Pesto, 10-ounce jar, $2.79 to $3.29, at major supermarkets.