Meet Kelly Mitchell Schilling
Hello and welcome! As a lifelong learner, I’m enjoying diving into the world of writing. I’ve been many things in my life: a lifeguard, a collegiate athlete, a stand-up comedian, and a teacher for 29 years. The journey of publishing a book has been the greatest learning adventure I’ve ever had in a single year!
A Love Story & A Life of Adventure
I’ve always loved traveling and learning about where I visit. One night I was lucky enough to perform on a show with Jeff Schilling — and soon found out Jeff loved those things too. Four months later we got married in Reno, Nevada, and the adventure was on! Jeff and I have driven the lower 48 states, exploring wherever we ended up. I only have Alaska and Hawaii left to color in on my map!
The Real Paulie
Jeff and I have collected some characters who’ve ridden on the dash as we traveled thousands of miles. As we drove, we made up stories for each of them. With the help of the incredibly talented illustrator John Collado — patient and gifted — Paulie was truly brought to life.
The Writing Journey
I taught second grade for 29 years and retired in 2017. After finishing my story I had no idea what to do next — until God put me in the right place: the swimming pool at the YMCA, where I met Kim Wuertz. Joining a writer’s group full of wonderfully creative people has been a joy. They guided me through editing and publishing my first book about our adventures.
Thank you for visiting. We hope to stop by where you live sometime — meanwhile, you’re always welcome to hop aboard and see this great country through the eyes of Paulie, Jeff, me and the other characters who travel with us.