Thank you for all the replies and great advice. This makes me feel much more confident that the bags I'm making will hold up - and I like the idea about doing the straps that go all the way around for extra support. GOOD idea!
I made this one yesterday, for my Mom. My parents are my best customers so far! LOL* They ordered a set of placemats off of Etsy from me and then a few days ago my Dad placed an order for this tote for my Momma...he is surprising her at work today with it. I hope she likes it! I feel confident it will last for her then after all your comments. :)
OH - and thank you for the compliments on my daughters tote!! I really like it too, and she loves it! She is 9 and just started cheerleading this year so I thought she might feel like it was too "babyish" for her, but she carries it EVERYWHERE. Momma feels good about that... ;)