What was I thinking?

Question:

Hi, Mrs. Naylor! I came to the realization recently that I have truly grown up with the Alice series. Back when I was a child I read a couple of them out of order, whatever my school library had available. Later, when I found out it was going to be a series of 28 books I found used copies of the older books online and began buying each new hardcover book immediately upon its release, beginning with Patiently Alice in 2003. I am SO excited for Always Alice this fall, and started the series from the beginning once again so I can “be ready” when it comes out in August.

Anyway, there was a part in a book where Lester was about 23, and Alice was concerned that he would be a lonely bachelor for the rest of his life since he was unable to commit to one woman. I remember when that book was new to me, and I also was 15 or 16 years old like her, I sort of agreed; 23 seemed old, like he should be settled in. Now that I’m 24, I wonder what I was thinking! I’m juggling multiple part-time jobs and trying to scrape enough money together to move out of my parents’ house and get a place with my fiancé, while planning a wedding that’s a year and a half off. It would be a miracle if I were married and settled into my life right now! I chuckled when I came to this conclusion, and also had to smile when I realized how many years I have spent with Alice. Thank you so much for your wonderful books.

Phyllis replied:

I love hearing how long you’ve been a friend of Alice’s.  And yes, when you’re 15, twenty-three seems old indeed.  Thanks so much for writing, and best wishes to you and your fiancé as you plan your wedding!