About Us

James & Norma

Welcome! We anchor the masthead and are glad you've stopped by to visit. Here is my partner Norma enjoying a glass of Guinness and myself with a Rickard's Red—our frequent choice for a brew when out and about.

As of March 9, 2026, we celebrated our 45th anniversary together and are still going strong!

James and Norma

Why "James * Jimmy * Jido"?

You will see three names featured at the top of this website. Each represents a different era and facet of my life:

JAMES: The Official Persona

The Origin: Rarely used in my personal life. I hadn't heard it used since my mother was angry with me around 1962, until I started traveling and needed it for my passport.

Represents: My official side—the financial guy, the tax representative, the bank person.

JIMMY: The Creative Dreamer

The Origin: A childhood nickname revived by a work colleague as a term of endearment, which quickly spread among friends.

Represents: The social, creative, and musical side of me. The guy playing guitar and truly living the dream!

JIDO: The Family Legacy

The Origin: An Arabic word for grandfather, which is how my step-grandchildren address me.

Represents: The grandfather looking out for their future, well-being, and preserving family history on this very website.