Julie's been keeping a diary since fourth grade — so the art of the personal essay is something she's been practicing for more years than she would care to admit.
Her first-ever published essay in the genre was called "The Love List." This essay about building a life based on love was published in a 2009 anthology called "Ask Me About My Divorce: Women Open Up About Moving On." Publisher's Weekly called out Julie's essay for special mention in its review, and feedback from readers has been positive.
Two of Julie's personal essays have been published in an sassy Southeastern publication called Skirt! magazine. "Nature Girl" is her favorite.
Website exclusive: In 2003, Julie spent a month living in Seville, Spain. She absorbed the culture and practiced her Spanish while living with a host mom. Her story “Dressing the Part” chronicles the unexpected adventure of choosing a flamenco dress to wear to Feria, Seville's spring festival. Enjoy!
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~Signing copies of "Ask Me About My Divorce" at Powell's Books in Portland, Oregon
"I'm proud of 'The Love List.' Yes, the topic was very personal. It's hard to put yourself out there in such an intimate way. But several people told me it gave them hope in a dark time in their lives. No compliment could mean more."
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