The Tillie Ride

Category Archives: The Backstory

Grandma Ruthie

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Grandma Ruthie with Grandpa Wally Pops on their 50th wedding anniversary

My great-grandparents on my mother’s side were immigrants from Sweden who settled on the north side of Chicago on Catalpa Street.  My great-grandmother died young.  Her husband was unable to care for the five children, of which my grandmother was the eldest.  At thirteen-years-old, she tried to feed and clothe her four younger brothers but the strain and malnutrition caused her to become seriously ill.  The story in our family is that my great-grandmother’s friends in the ‘Swedish American Women’s Club’ let my grandmother choose another family to live with.  Until she was 19, she lived in the country with ‘Grandma Burling.’  The women had made a pact to watch after one another’s children in the event that any of them died. With the Tillie Ride,  I feel a bit like I am repaying in small part the Swedish community of Chicago’s kindness to our family.  As my friend, Mary, says “Tack!” to the Chicago Swedes.

The Tillie Bob is Here!

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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!

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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.