De-accessing has been my mantra of late.  Why do I have so many THINGS?  Do I really need a yellowed copy of every newspaper article I’ve ever published?  Do I seriously think my grandchildren will want to read them?  Does it feel good when I de-access some “thing” or piece of clothing that has gone untouched or unappreciated for years?  Absolutely.

But things happen.  On a recent visit to Williamstown in western Massachusetts, my friend wanted to show me her favorite new shop—a wonderful collection of things all made in Africa.  There was nothing in there that I didn’t like.  I managed to wander around the shop for at least ten minutes without spending anything.  Then my friend admired a charming vase, and I couldn’t resist buying it for her as a gift.  (“To give is better than to receive.)  I don’t know which one of us was more pleased.  But then I caved in and bought the same thing for me.

So much for de-accessing.  But it was irresistible. 

See above.