Septuagenarian; a countable noun, a person 70 years old, or between the ages of 70 and 80. (Webster’s New World College Dictionary).
Oh my, isn’t that an impressive-sounding term? It sounds stately and dignified. It’s a pity that the state of being described as such ain’t quite as impressive. It’s too late to even think of early retirement, and dying young is a long-lost opportunity. Remember what we used to say? Live fast, die young, and leave a good-looking corpse. Yeah, that’s not going to happen.
John Gurdasummed it up beautifully in a recent post. “Seventy is the new 50. That strikes me as a psychological comb-over: We’ve reached authentic old age. If 70 is the new 50, dead must be the new 80.” Yep, it’s like lipstick on a pig. She may be prettier but she’s still a pig and old is still old.
From the time I was in my early teens my little Mawmaw called me Ol’ Big Jim. That was to differentiate me from my cousin. We called him Jimmy Hardhead. He and I were nearly inseparable growing up. I reckon I’ve grown into that nickname now. Jimmy Hardhead and I recently reconnected and I can’t wait to spend a day with him reminiscing. I hope his memory is better than mine! When we were growing up, he’d talk the ears of a wooden Indian. I wonder if he still does or if he’s quieter now. I reckon time has a way of changing folks. We will see what we will see.
But! I’m still 279 days away from becoming a septuagenarian. I’d best get about making the end of my sexagenarian days count!
Y’all go around and check out the re-release of New Yesterdays. Completely new cover and it’s now available in hardcover, paperback, and eBook. Soon, it’ll be available as an audiobook. It’s available on most platforms where you get your books. I’m as giddy as a schoolgirl!
Changed Tomorrows, the sequel to New Yesterdays is back in production. I’m writing my pudgy little fingers to the bone. In my next post, I’ll share an excerpt to whet your interest. I can’t wait to see what happens!
Jim L. Wright is a storyteller with a lifetime of experiences as colorful as the characters he creates. Born and raised in Piedmont, Alabama, Jim’s connection to the land, history, and people of the region runs deep. His debut novel New Yesterdays is set in his hometown, where he grew up listening to stories of the past—stories that sparked his imagination and curiosity for history.
Today, Jim lives in Leeds, Alabama, with his husband Zeek, a tour operator who shares his passion for adventure and discovery. Known affectionately as “Ol’ Big Jim,” he has had a diverse career that includes time as a storekeeper, an embalmer, a hospital orderly, and a medical coder. There are even whispers—unconfirmed, of course—that he once played piano in a house of ill repute.
No matter the job, one thing has remained constant: Jim is a teller of tales. His stories—sometimes humorous, sometimes thought-provoking—are often inspired by his unique life experiences. Many of these tales can be found on his popular blog, Ol’ Big Jim, where he continues to share his musings with a loyal readership.
Jim’s adventures have taken him far beyond Alabama. For seven years, he lived in Amman, Jordan, the world’s oldest continuously inhabited city. His time there, spent in smoky coffee shops, enjoying a hookah and a cup of tea while scribbling in his ever-present notebook, deeply influenced his worldview and his writing.
When Jim isn’t writing, he’s thinking about writing. His stories, whether tall tales from his past or imaginative reimagining is of historical events should read from his past or imaginative reimaginings of historical events, reflect a life lived fully and authentically. With New Yesterdays, Jim brings readers a rich tapestry of history, fantasy, and human connection.
Visit his blog at www.olbigjim.com to read more of his stories, or follow him on social media to keep up with his latest musings and projects, one of which is a series that follows Bonita McCauley, an amateur detective who gets into some very sticky situations.
His book, New Yesterdays, can be found at Amazon US, Amazon UK, Smashwords, and Barnes and Noble.
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I am a member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints who loves to hike, to play music, make amazing fun food, carve wood, grow plants, to read good books and explore the world!
Life is a patchwork of moments — laughter, solitude, everyday joys, and quiet aches. Through scribbled stories, I explore travels both far and inward, from sunrise over unfamiliar streets to the comfort of home. This is life as I see it, captured in ink and memory. Stick around; let's wander together.
"Welcome to The Brit in Transit – your go-to buddy for stories filled with adventures, challenges, and the joy of self-discovery while navigating the wonderful chaos of life across the globe. Hop on board as we kick things off with tales from Washington DC, Florida, New York, and Connecticut, then embark on a thrilling journey through the historic wonders of Greece, Italy, and Spain. Amidst the wild ride of adaptation, our blog is here to share the laughter, unique experiences, cultural quirks, and even a bit of love. Join us in this friendly narrative that spans across diverse landscapes, from Europe to the United States and beyond. Come along for a dose of growth, resilience, and the ongoing pursuit of a seriously meaningful life abroad. Start your friendly adventure with The Brit in Transit today!"
Loved this one, Jim.
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Thank you, Dear, and thanks for coming by today!
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As an Octogenarian, I can tell ya, “you ain’t seen nothing yet.” Get ready for more fun.
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Thanks for coming round today, John! I hadn’t any idea you are Octogenarian. I’m ready… I think.
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You’ll be fine, I’m sure.
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Enjoy it as it comes, Jim. This old septuagenarian didn’t think he’d make it to be an octogenarian. We’ll see.
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