A new word

December 19, 2024

So, yes, the big surprise of 2024 was Meeting Someone. And not just anyone.

It started with a dog walk, suggested by a mutual friend who was certain we’d hit it off. We did. A couple of dinners out followed. Then a regular weekly meet up to play pool at the pub.

I’ll be honest, I am pretty clueless when it comes to the opposite sex.

Early days: Yeah, I like the bloke and it’s nice to make a new friend. Later: Hmm, he seems pretty keen, but keen on what exactly? A compliment was paid that was so lavish I couldn’t stop myself saying, “Either I’m being wooed or that’s the cheesiest thing I ever heard.” The reply: “You are being wooed.” Oh, I see. Hands were held and then there was a clumsy attempt at a kiss.

Next time I saw him he said he was feeling quite ridiculously adolescent (adding that at least there was no acne this time round). I confessed I had been thinking something similar. It wasn’t until the next day that I named it: Seniorlescence.

Much better, a friend said when I told him my new word, than obsolescence. Much better.

Another new word is needed.

Friends get a giggle out of referring to my “boyfriend”. I roll my eyes and say, “Oh, puh-leeze.” But what is the word? Partner ain’t it. Lover? Hmm, no. The thought of saying “paramour” does make me smile, but no.

And then I remembered a guy I went out with briefly years ago once introducing me to someone as his girlfriend. Told him if he ever did that again I’d punch him in the face. I didn’t belong to him in any way.

Why do people get so possessive? And not just in the pronoun department. My husband, my girlfriend? What the hell is that about? The fella’s got a name. If I ever have to introduce him to someone who doesn’t already know who he is (it’s a small island), I can just use that.

Cancel previous. No new word is require. (Although droll suggestions are welcome.)

Pretty much the last thing I was expecting at the beginning of 2024 was that the year would end with my life filled with love and laughter. Seniorlescence, eh? I highly recommend it.