Page 45 of Authentically, Izzy
From: Izzy Edgewood
To: Josephine Martin
Date: March25
Subject: Clothes and Eli
Josephine,
Thank you for the clothes. This batch actually had a few things that fit. The green sweater was particularly nice and the boots too. When did you ever wear a plaid skirt? It matches the navy blouse well but doesn’t seem like your style at all.
Now, as to the practicality of some of the offerings. I don’t wear high heels, miniskirts, shades of neon, or clothing that resembles an abominable snowman. I’m saving those for Penelope. If she doesn’t wear them she can donate them to the drama department.
Eli enjoyed meeting you and Patrick. Yes, he always has copies of his books on hand and never tires of talking about them. I supposeif someone has invested so much time in creating a novel, they’re going to feel attached to them—kind of like those two little lives you’re carrying around with you now (only, your investment is much more . . . MORE . . . than paper-and-ink people).
To be honest, he is a perfect gentleman. Opens doors, asks some interesting questions, and really enjoys the higher-end restaurants in town. I don’t think I’ve ever eaten such an amazing steak!
We have plans to attend the next bluegrass jam session at the Earle Theater on Friday. He’s never been before, but first he wants to take me on a drive up the Blue Ridge Parkway. How could I refuse such an offer? The mountains are barely waking with spring!
I’ll see you Sunday if not before. If you need me, call.
Henceforth, I shall refer to myself as Aunt Izzy. It has a nice ring to it, doesn’t it? And instead of being like Austen’s ostentatious Lady Catherine de Bourgh or supine Lady Bertram, my goal is to emulate the eccentric and adoring Aunt Betsey fromDavid Copperfield.
Aunt Izzy
PS: When did you ever wear a caftan or tie-dyed shirt? And what sort of hat is that thing with the peacock feathers? I think this “nesting” you’re doing has unearthed rare and disturbing clothing choices from your plant-based diet phase. You did some weird things during that year. Ones you can’t remove without a great deal of pain.
PPS: I don’t think you realize this, but you called Eli “Clark” on several occasions last night. Just thought you’d want to know.
From: Izzy Edgewood
To: Penelope Edgewood
Date: March25
Subject: Re: SCOTLAND
Penelope,
How exciting! Scotland! I’ve always dreamed of going to Scotland. Are you properly prepared? I have a list of reading materials should you need one. It’s sure to prepare you for every possibility, including surviving kidnapping, how to stowaway, the art of becoming an excellent thief, and tips on how to meet your dream Highlander through time travel. (Why do I keep renewing my passport if I’ve never used it? I think something needs to change. After all, Josephine says flying is the safest way to travel, though I’d prefer a magical wardrobe or even a portkey.)
As far as Clark Gable is concerned... we’re still in the beginning phases. Conversations have been much better than previous first dinners with other men. He has an excellent vocabulary and is an easy conversationalist, never without something to say. Truly, he barely gives any time for silence between questions and comments, which makes my anxiety about finding the right words nearly nonexistent.
His reading interests are narrower than mine, but I suppose no one would find that a surprise.
And he is an excellent dresser. You’d definitely call him swoon-worthy.
I’m looking forward to learning more about his previous teaching experiences and what brought him to Mt. Airy from all the manyother places he’s been. I learned he has a sister who lives in Missouri near his parents, but he didn’t talk much about them. He did seem interested in my opinions about what makes a good story, so we had a stimulating exchange about that.
I can’t wait to learn exactly where you’ll be in Scotland!
By the way, I’m talking with Mr.Fisher next week about his rental space. I’m not sure what he has in mind for leasing or selling it, but Josephine encouraged me to meet with him (in other words she set up the meeting, placed the reminder on my phone,andtold me which outfit to wear to present myself in the most businesslike manner). Clearly I’m not listening to her. I’m not even sure I’m ready to make such a leap.
I’m off to have another video call with Brodie.
Love you,
Izzy
