"I won't be needing a plastic bag,"

said the lady on line behind me at the overpriced fancyorganicgourmet store up the block. The one I shop at when I'm lazy or busy or just really need a $6 pint of hisbiscus rose ices.

She started pointedly at me, with my box of cookies in a bag. "I don't need a bag, and I ESPECIALLY wouldn't if I had one thing, because that would be wasteful. For the ENVIRONMENT." Pointed look again.

Things I could have done in response:

1. Explained that I keep all of my bags and reuse them. Which I do.

2. Self-righteously pointed out that all of her items are rife with animal products, which is way more wasteful than one plastic bag. As in, feeding plants to animals just to kill those animals and eat them. Plus, the cow farts destroying the world. (That's true - look it up. Methane!). But then I'd be a) a preachy vegan b)stooping to her level.

3. Kissed her on the forehead and whispered, "Thank you." Slowly, deliberately pulled the box of cookies out of the bag and handed it back to the cashier with a rueful smile.

I ignored her and left.