As it happens with all
books, Julia's Journal would not have been possible without
the encouragement, input, support and help of many people, in
this case a group of extraordinary, talented and witty ladies
from different corners of the world who I am lucky and honored
to call "friends". My life is richer because of them.
Thanks to Susanne for
endless lessons in patience, long, thoughtful talks, chilled
champagne and late night movies at her Berlin "den".
And, of course, for her German translation and the butterfly.
Thanks to Ilaria for
dragging me around Rome, lessons in horsemanship and ancient
coins, good hearted - and relentless - slave driving and so many
good laughs.
Thanks to Dominique for
her sharp mind, meticulous enthusiasm and superb French translation,
not to mention her archaeological expertise.
Thanks to Katarina, who
doesn't write or translate but could easily do either (and should
do both!) but redefines the words "strength and "humour"
every time she sits down at the keyboard.
Thanks to Annette and
Sigi for Wolfsburg, wonderful cakes and girlie talk, thoughtful
input and cheerful encouragement.
Thanks to Pat for her
anecdotes, insight and reflections about long standing love and
marriage.
Thanks to Annamaria for
her beautiful Italian translation and to Seira, Vindobona,
Dove, Alicia and all the Spanish Hordes for their
contribution to spreading Gladiator Stories and fast paced,
late night chats.
Thanks to Ruby, Poppy, Lolita
and the late Baby, my beloved, beautiful, smart and
opinionated cats that inspired the looks and personalities of
Julia's beloved, beautiful, smart and opinionated ones.
Thanks to all the readers for
their enthusiastic support, heartfelt encouragement and endless
patience.
And, of course, a big THANK
YOU! to Susan Spicer, artist, teacher, writer, woman
and friend extraordinaire who made it all possible. Thank you
for the magic and for letting me be part of it!
This story is dedicated to all
of the above and to the many, unknown, real life Julias - past,
present and future - brave women who fight against odds and hardship
and dare love and be themselves.
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