Those of you who have met me look in disbelief when I say I am from New Hampshire. “Oh, come on, you’re from New York. You’ve got your ‘NEW’s’ mixed up. No, really, I am from New Hampshire- Concud—just kidding, it really is Concord, but none of us townies ever quite got the pronunciation of the ‘r’s the way the rest of the country says it. I grew up on Westbourne Road, up by the High School, down the street from the State Hospital and over by the woods. I seem to know what I am talking about when I give these GPS coordinates. And I have witnesses to my early residence. There was Graham McSwiney who lived across the street with his Boxer, Mugsy. And the Hayes kids, all 6 of them, who lived next door. Diagonally across the street were the Clarners who talked funnier than me with their great Concud accent. I can produce witnesses. And, I guess I just look like I’m from New York.
Yet, I have a certain New Hampshire ethic inbred in me. The one that proffers measured frugality. Emma Landry, my Mom’s chum and a native of Concord had a neat expression that frames the frugality creed: “ Use it up. Wear it Out. Make it Do or do without.” And now comes a big Holiday Season that screams another message: “Buy me. Buy me. Buy me.” What’s a girl to do in the face of these two conflicting messages? Enter the Regifting concept. I love you. It not only fits in with my New Hampshire roots, it is a fabulous way of sharing the wealth without succumbing to the consumer frenzy. Regifting here I come. I just wish I could convert the rest of my circle of neighbors, friends, family. No chance. This year my staff planned the Holiday party and everyone is a Secret Santa to someone. Now, let’s see. Regift or buy. Mmmm.
Carol J Trust
