The Tillie Ride

Monthly Archives: April 2011

The Tillie Bob is Here!

Posted on by Posted in The Backstory .

This is how I looked when I arrived at DKM, the hair salon where my friend and stylist, Dawn Couturier, works.  I rode my bicycle, of course!   I look fine, but not exactly presentation-worthy.  I asked Dawn to come up with a cut that would transition well from sweaty bike helmet to school auditorium.  By the way, I believe Dawn is the most talented, reasonably-priced, hairstylist in the Grand Rapids area (DKM is near Lamoreaux and Alpine).  You should try her!  784-4247.

This is what she came up with.  I think it looks great.  Below, the artist with her most recent creation….

Keep those cards and letters coming!

Posted on by Posted in The Backstory, Training .

Recently I asked kids to write to me about a time when they were scared and how they overcame their fears.  It’s amazing what a boost to the soul this can be.  We all get frightened.  We all find ways to overcome our fear and move forward.  In my case, 50 miles a day for five days…to be exact.  In the event that you are facing a difficult situation, read on for some wise advice.  My words of encouragement are, ask for help when you need it.  I was so heartened by these letters.

At one school, Katrise, pictured below, stayed in from recess to make this card for me.   I cherish this card.

Here’s another wise letter (how do these kids get so wise?)  If you have any thoughts to add, don’t keep them to yourself.  Write me a letter. 1080 Knapp Street, NE Grand Rapids, MI 49505.

We have our schools!

Posted on by Posted in Route .

Our goal with the Tillie Ride is to reach out to more than 1,000 schoolchildren who have never met a children’s book author and haven’t heard the wonderful story of Tillie the Terrible Swede.  The lucky schools have been named.  In addition to the schools below, we will be making a few bookstore and library visits to reach more kids.  See our school list below!

Teachers and authors make books come alive

North Park Elementary

337 Cheney Avenue, NE

Grand Rapids, MI 49525

Pine Creek Elementary

1184 136th Avenue

Holland, MI 49424

Glenn Elementary

1394 Adams

Glenn, MI 49416

Coloma Middle School

274 South West Street

Coloma, MI 49038

Morton Elementary

267 North Hull

Benton Harbor, MI 49022

Galien Elementary

122 E. Southeastern Avenue

Galien, MI 49113

Marsh Elementary

400 East Homer Street

Michigan City, IN 46360

J.W. Cook Elementary

8150 South Bishop Street

Chicago, IL 60620

Hurrah!  Can’t wait to meet you all!