The weather in Amsterdam yesterday reminded me of one important thing: Never leave the house without an umbrella. Even if the day is sunny and beautiful, the weather can change in a heartbeat.

Sometimes it's nice to think of using the umbrella as an act of defiance. The rain pounds down around you; the wind whips moisture into your shoes and soaks your jeans, but your head stays deliciously dry. Take that, rain!

Better to buy one at Hema than to wait until the super-expensive ones go on sale on the street in a time of great need. And enjoy the satisfaction of being prepared for anything.