Theresa Hildreth, a Houston grandmother and first-time children’s book author, launched her debut children’s book, Teeda Says, “Be Patient”, at the Houston Botanic Garden’s March for Monarchs event, an experience that perfectly reflected the heart of her story.

Throughout the event, Theresa actively engaged with families by reading her book aloud to children, hosting book giveaways, and sharing the inspiration behind the story. Teeda Says, “Be Patient” follows her granddaughter Audrey as she brings butterfly chrysalises to school and learns that transformation takes time. This message came to life at March for Monarchs as children witnessed, learned about, and celebrated the monarch butterfly’s remarkable journey.

March for Monarchs takes participants on a guided walk through the Houston Botanic Garden designed to mirror the monarchs’ migration from Mexico to their northern breeding grounds. Along the way, families learn about the challenges monarchs face and discover simple ways they can help protect them. The event concludes with a celebratory backyard gathering featuring food, crafts, games, and educational resources, with each participant receiving a native milkweed plant to start a butterfly garden at home.

By reading her book in the midst of an event centered on patience, perseverance, and nature’s timing, Theresa created a meaningful connection between story and experience. Her presence at March for Monarchs allowed children to see firsthand how the lessons in Teeda Says, “Be Patient” apply not only to butterflies, but to everyday life as well.