Parasol Pop

A folded paper cocktail umbrella was resting flat on the kitchen counter, right beside a tall water glass! It looked like a tiny pleated rocket waiting for launch. I scooped up the slender bamboo stick, planted my boots for leverage, and pinched the miniature white slider ring. One firm push upward—slide, pop! The folded paper ribs flared wide open into a blazing pink-and-yellow canopy! I gave the toothpick stem a quick twirl between my palms, watching the bright swirl throw a neat circle of shade right across the cool granite. Instant VIP parasol, ready for action!