When I watched Julie and Julia I was captivated by many things -blogging and the power of the little person’s passion on the Julie side ,- but more than anything- I was riveted by Julia Child’s fantastic sense of self, her ability to laugh at herself, see her imperfections and love herself (all matronly and 6’2 of self) in spite of them, her drive as a culinary force (she never cooked before the age of 34)- her strength and softness as a woman and her beautiful love story with Paul Child.
This picture sums it up (heads back laughing, his hand firmly on her butt, picnic basket in her hand)
They laughed together, had fantastic sex together, supported each other as they fumbled through the ups and downs. He had 10 years on her, she had 6 inches on him and yet they were beautiful together.
Every Valentines day they sent out a picture of themselves, one year together in a bubble bath, quirky and unapologetic in their way.
Throughout their marriage they fought hard to maintain what she called “that lovely intertwining of life, mind and soul that a good marriage is” spending all their time close together.
When she was studying at Cordon Bleu- she was at school in the morning and “then for lunch time, I would go home and make love to my husband”. Delicious. In the evenings, she would cook and he would read out loud to her from the New Yorker. Gorgeous.
This picture sits on my fridge. I love everything about what they had and I have ordered it for myself for Christmas.
I have been such a good girl.
Laura says
Nancy, I don’t see where to email you, so had to leave this as a comment. I’d be happy to tell you my story – some people might find it interesting as it involves a seredipitous online meeting, a wee bit of deception, big change of plans, an overseas romance, long-distance relationship, cyber-sex, exotic (and crazy!) wedding location and finally an exciting adventure with Immigration Canada to get my husband here! You can contact me at laurabradley@telus.net
Erin Little says
Nancy,
I loved Julia in the movie also (I hated Julie though – but that’s another post).
Their love story was truly beautiful (I can’t think of a better word). I’m wishing you find your Paul this year.
I know this is going to sound all “The Secretish” but one of my friends suggested I write down what I was looking for in a partner so that my request would be out there in the universe. I pooh poohed the idea at first but then I did it and a few months later I met John. I wouldn’t hurt to try it.
I also love that photo.
Nancy says
thanks Jen. I will keep you posted!
Nancy says
Laura- thank you for reading and sharing a bit of your love story. I would love to interview you and hear how it all came to be. Drop me a note if you are up for it! best, n
Laura says
“You are the butter to my bread…the breath to my life”
While I really enjoyed the entire movie, what I loved was the love story between Julia and Paul.
I was very young and married the wrong man. 3 years ago our 10 year marriage ended. Now I have found my Paul, and I hope I am his Julia (although I don’t cook nearly as well, but perhaps there is still time left for me to attend le Couron Bleu!)
I hope you find your Paul too.
Jen says
I hope Santa brings you what you want! Everyone deserves at least a little piece of that. Great photo and great reminder.