Definitely get lights; and reflective gear is good. Hit your Mom up for the latter. She'll be an easy sale on that part.
My recommendation would be to buy a shopping pannier such as the grocery getter by SunLite. They are meant to take a full grocery bag with no problem and should be able to hold your backpack.
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"He who serves all, best serves himself" Jack London
Originally Posted by
Bjforrestal
I don't care if you are on a unicycle, as long as you're not using a motor to get places you get props from me. We're here to support each other. Share ideas, and motivate one another to actually keep doing it.