A Miniature Canopy

A brisk walk down to Jersey Avenue brought me to an outdoor cafe patio, where a folded paper cocktail parasol caught my eye on a sunlit bistro table. Climbing atop the weathered timber, I approached the delicate novelty. Gripping the slender bamboo stem firmly, I nudged the tiny cardstock ring upward with both thumbs until eight thin struts sprang taut with a crisp rustle. The patterned floral paper blossomed into an immaculate dome. Resting the miniature handle comfortably against my shoulder, I leaned back against an ivory porcelain sugar bowl to enjoy a restful, unhurried pause under my bright canopy.