The Real Gims
Meet Gimli, the dog behind the story
Every great story starts somewhere. For Gims and Friends, it started with a wrinkly, wiggly English Bulldog named Gimli and a neighborhood full of kids who loved him.
Hi, I'm Mimi
I am a mom of two wonderful sons and a daughter-in-law, a proud grandma to a busy 17-month-old little boy, and a dog grandma to the one and only Gimli. I have called Colorado home for 39 years, and I would not have it any other way.
When I am not working, you will find me outside taking walks, soaking up the Colorado scenery, or deep in a good book. I am happiest when I am creating something, learning something new, or surrounded by the kids in our neighborhood who have a habit of finding their way to our front door.
Life has not always been easy. I was married for 30 wonderful years before losing my husband, and that experience has only deepened my belief that family, belonging, and love are the most important stories worth telling. That belief is at the heart of every Gims and Friends book.
How Gims and Friends Was Born
Gimli has always had a gift for drawing people in. Kids in our Frederick, Colorado neighborhood just show up. They play, they laugh, they pile around this goofy bulldog like he is the mayor of the street. Watching those connections grow planted a seed.
I started thinking about all the children who need to hear that belonging is possible. That family is not just where you start. That love finds you in the most unexpected places. Gimli became Gims, and a series was born.
Neighborhood Mimi
Long before any books existed, I became the neighborhood Mimi. Playing with the kids, making special summer drinks and having plenty of snacks on hand.
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We live on a cul-de-sac with a little park right in the middle of it, and that park is basically our second living room. Kids show up, Gimli holds court like the royalty he absolutely believes he is, and somehow the afternoon disappears.
These books are for every child who has found their people in unexpected places. And for every adult who has been lucky enough to be someone's Mimi.
Want to say hello? I would love to hear from you at:Â hello@gimsandfriends.com
