My Cousin Julie

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Ah, my cousin Christine, Julie’s sister sent me this photo today.

When Yann and I were newlyweds living in Paris, Julie came to visit. She would come visit us many many times as the years came and went.

 

Julie and I were 30 years old. 

 

In this trip visiting us we went through Paris’ famous underground illegally, climbing on telephone wires with rubber boats we bought in Bon Marche for 150 Francs. It was probably the most daring, outrageous, thrilling experience I had ever had. An eye opener to a world underneath Paris.

 

Julie told Yann her favorite FRENCH words to say out loud: Poubelle, Gendarmes, Pamplemousse and Libellule. I did not know any of those words at the time. But I remember me and agree they sound pretty:

Poubelle – Garbage can

Gendarmes – Police

Pamplemousse – Grapefruit 

Libellule – Dragonfly.

 

It was the last time I had that style of haircut as nobody knew how to cut my hair like that in France.

 

In my mind’s eye this is how Julie looks, this is how she looked in my dream the other night.

My cousin, my dear cousin, resides in a rest home now as she is incapable of caring for herself. I bought an airline ticket and I will be in California in September on her birthday.

Whenever I think about her which is often, I well up. When I saw this photo I was thankful of the love we have shared, of our bond, of the numerous memories I hold.

 

 



Comments

19 responses to “My Cousin Julie”

  1. two beautiful girls!! I love this post- for many reasons – time passing time standing still- there to here and back again …. life in its twists turns and cartwheels …. so much heart– so much love– the ties that bind!!

  2. Cynthia Thompson

    God bless and keep Julie. A reminder to all to enjoy each and every moment with loved ones. Such a sweet photo.

  3. Ella in Nice

    Chère Corey,
    What a wonderful gift to give yourself and your sweet cousin. May you feel us holding both of you in our hearts.

  4. Susan in Zurich

    Beautiful photo, precious memories ❤
    I’m thankful you are able to visit Julie for her birthday.
    Your hair style in the photo is darling!
    After moving to Zurich, it wasn’t long before I grew my hair longer to a simple style; haircuts are spendy in Switzerland! I must admit it made life easier during lockdown.

  5. Jennifer Phillipps

    You both look youthful and happy together and yes, you do have a lovely haircut….good to know you will be able to visit Julie for her birthday and we send blessings to her in the meantime…great memories you have to go back to ….Jennifer

  6. A beautiful photograph of two beautiful ladies.
    How fragile life is and it’s a reminder to never take anything for granted.
    I am happy you will be with her for her birthday in Septemeber.
    God bless Julie and thank you Corey for everything you share with us.
    Love Jeanne

  7. Such a beautiful photo of you and Julie and wonderful memories of times shared ——and the steadfast love through the happy and heartbreaking times. Your birthday visit with Julie will be such a gift and blessing for both of you.

  8. Oh Corey, I’m so sorry to hear that Julie is in long-term care. I know it tears your heart to pieces. It is a beautiful photo and I am glad to hear that you’ll see her soon. Hold her hand, look into her eyes and read her favorite poems to her. xo jackie

  9. Texas Francophile

    Oh my life is such an unbelievable journey. You DO make the most of it. Your dear Julie will love seeing your face and feeling the bond. So happy for you both. Xoxoxo

  10. There is nothing quite like one’s cousins! The happy, silly, sometimes dangerous times we spent together. The family secrets and sharing smiles. Even the slight resemblance or same toes! Wonderful that you are flying home to see Julie, Mom and family. In May, I too flew home for a dying cousin and found everlasting love among extended family members that I sorely miss living out east. Sing with Julie, dance with your mother and treasure all.

  11. Cousins are our best friends. Mine are and I gather my grandchildren together as often
    as possible so they will have that when they are grown.
    Continued prayers for your cousin, Julie🙏

  12. What a special gift that photo. Such a timeless bond. I’m glad you are able to fly home for her in September. xx

  13. What a wonderful memory and photo, Corey. I am glad you will be flying to California soon for a visit and will be able to spend time with Julie and family. Keeping you all in my thoughts and prayers.

  14. Beautiful photo of the two of you. Saved it.
    Brings tears to my eyes.
    xo

  15. Fat Rabbit

    Lovely picture of you & Julie – with mischievous smiles.
    May you have a safe trip “home” in September to see your dear cousin and the entire family.
    What a wonderful loving childhood that you had in CA.

  16. Ed Schnurbusch

    I hope Julie improves with time. Brain injuries are unpredictable. I had a pretty good crush on Julie back in school but I never said anything. Was your hair style called the “Dorothy Hammel”?

  17. I second Fat Rabbit re the mischievous smiles on both of your faces. Do you recall any more what you two might have been plotting at that moment? 😉

  18. Ann of Avondale

    Glad you are visiting your dear cousin. Today I was commenting on how life changes, things don’t stay the same; it is unpredictable even though one has the best plans, it can all change with events beyond our control. Great picture does look like a Dorothy Hamill haircut.

  19. Sending loving thoughts for Julie and you.
    I am thrilled you can come to celebrate her birth day in September.

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