I have a hot pink umbrella with a wood handle. It was given to me by someone I love on Valentine’s Day.

That umbrella is the strongest one I’ve ever had. It has stood up to windy storms and driving rains. It has turned inside out and righted itself. It has been in my possession longer than any umbrella I’ve ever owned. I have left it behind, panicked and gone back to get it, always relieved to have it in my hands once again. Two weeks ago I left it on the PATH train and didn’t realize it until I was almost out of the station. I paid my way back in and found it on the seat I had vacated.

I love that umbrella. It’s full of personality. We’re a heckuva pair.