Photographer: Tom Harpel (Wikimedia Commons)

Four years ago, I bought the ultimate traveling companion that every woman desires – the perfect purse. A black, sturdy, one zippered, deep pocketed girlie girl that fit all my traveling needs: camera, video camera, wallet, hair brush, makeup, cell phone, travel guides, and the occasional souvenir. Unfortunately, my BFF has met its maker and is on the brink to becoming a purse angel. Saddened by the end of our relationship, I’ve had no choice but to scour malls, super stores, and the occasional flea market with no end in sight. For the purse of my dreams will have to endure the long haul of lying under airplane seats, being squished to my bosom in crowded cities, and being beaten down by the hustle and bustle of everyday life. For this purse will not mind the clanging of loose change, the endless scattering of receipts, and the added weight of my pen thievery.

Therefore, the challenge is out there – where can I find my new BFF? Is it on the operating table being born as we speak or is it out there, wishing upon a star that it will find a home?

If you’ve got the perfect traveling BFF, please let me know! Where did you find her? Was it love at first sight? And most importantly, will you ever let her go?