At Seventy

(Our host for this week's Fun Monday, planet of janet , broke the news last week that Hollywood has come calling. They want to make movies of our life stories. But first we need to provide a brief synopsis of this film and cast of the principal players to use in pitching the project. Here's how I'd like my movie to play out.)

Piece of cake was my immediate reaction on reading Janet's challenge. My inspiration would be the great poet, novelist and chronicler of everyday life May Sarton. On her 70th birthday Sarton wrote: What is it like to be seventy? If someone else had lived so long and could remember things sixty years ago with great clarity, she would seem very old to me. But I do not feel old at all, not as much a survivor as a person still on her way. I suppose real old age begins when one looks backward rather than forward, but I look forward with joy to the years ahead and especially to
the surprises that any day may bring.

With these wise words Sarton began At Seventy A Journal recording the daily tapestry of her 70th year. Her journal for that year will be the research background for the movie of my life story.

Film Synopsis/Location
My story begins in November, the month I turn 70. I am finally living the life I was meant to, earning a living by my writings. Each day has its own rhythm of work and pleasure. I live independently out in the country within comfortable distance of several good neighbors. My house is old, but sturdily built. I share my home with a much loved dog who provides companionship and laughter for my solitary--by choice on most days--lifestyle.

For many years I have been building a garden which provides great pleasure and ongoing challenges to maintain it. I am lucky to have the health to keep up the garden with some occasional assistance. Today, there are the last spring bulbs to plant before the weather turns any colder.

This film will chronicle my daily living. Most days follow a pattern. Early in the morning I write before coming downstairs. Then, I tend to the round of daily chores and business. There is always something to do in the garden. In the afternoon, I read or drive into town to do errands and meet friends for some needed conversation and entertainment. Evenings are quiet for the most part--walks with the dog, dinner, a little TV, and perhaps some more writing. At certain times of the year I must travel to promote my work. I leave home reluctantly and return eagerly.

Cast of Characters
Faye --Judi Dench
Stunt Dog --probably an adult Golden Retriever
Long-time Friends--Tom Skerritt and Joanne Woodward
Neighbor/Gardener/Handyman--Colin Firth (the casting director challenged me on this one, but I stuck to my guns--scroll down to picture in previous post to see why. . .grin)

Director and Musical Score

Clint Eastwood

Well, thanks Janet for giving us a chance to script our life's movie. The chances are pretty good this is not the way mine will play out based on where I am now and the time that's left before hitting 70. However, maybe we can find a little movie magic to get there. . .

Now head on over to planet of Janet to check out other Fun Monday participants' life movies.