Here’s the last installment, folks. Need to get up to speed? Check out Part One and Part Two.
Once I graduated high school and married Charlie, I had a decision to make. I mean, I loved my job at the A&P, but shouldn’t I want more outta life? I’ve always been good with numbers, so I decided to get an Accounting Certificate at the Community College in Bangor. Couldn’t go full time, of course. Charlie and me were just starting out and we couldn’t swing that. So, I continued on at the A&P and took courses at night. It was slow and tough at times, but I stuck it out. About halfway through, I realized that accounting wasn’t my life’s calling. But I’m not a quitter, so I soldiered on. Took about four years, but I got that certificate.
I’m glad I did. Being alone in a room with numbers all day doesn’t suit me, not like the A&P. But it’s been a great little side job and has gotten us through some lean times.
Over the years, we’ve had our ups and downs at the A&P. In 2004, good ol’ Fred Nichols, who as I said before, had owned the store since I can remember, passed away in the produce section. One minute he was spiffing up a display of fresh picked Golden Delicious apples from Bouchard’s Farm and the next he was lying there, white as a sheet. Heart attack. EMT’s tried their best, but there was nothing they could do. It was so sad. Not a bad way to go, though, doing what you love.
Fred’s kids inherited the store. But they both live away and had no interest whatsoever in coming back to Mahoosuc Mills and running the place. So, what do they do? They sell it to that big chain, Super Food World. Yup. New signs, new look, new feel. Everyone in town still called it the A&P, though.
All of a sudden, we’ve got all these new rules and regulations, manager wet behind the ears, clear plastic purses so we couldn’t steal anything. I mean, come on! Trainings on what to say to customers. “Listen,” I told them, “I’ve known most of these folks my whole life. I know what to say to them!” Us employees started calling it “Stupid Food World.”
I wasn’t sure how long I’d last with those guys. But I stuck it out. It was the customers. That’s what kept me going. “We can’t imagine this place without you, Ida,” a few folks told me.
Finally, Tradewinds bought the store from Super Food World. That’s a Maine-based, family owned business, and they’ve been great to work for. Never tried to make us something we’re not. Plus, they give back to the community, so it’s a win/win.
I’ve had the perfect schedule for years: Monday through Friday, 11:00 to 5:00. Seniority is a beautiful thing. Still, I’m not getting any younger. In fact, I’m wondering about cutting back a little. I mean, what am I trying to prove? Maybe I’ll go down to three days a week. I’d like to keep my hand in. It’s good to be out and about, interacting with folks, keeping up with the latest gossip ‘round town. I’m thinking about it. Figure I’ll know when the time is right.
That’s it for now. Catch you on the flip side!
Hear Ida Tell It: Me & the A&P Part Three