03 Jan SWEET ’16

2015 -what a year. I had three new books published: LULLABY AND KISSES SWEET: POEMS TO LOVE WITH YOUR BABY (Abrams), JUMPING OFF LIBRARY SHELVES (Boyds Mills Press/Wordsong) and AMAZING PLACES (Lee & Low). Two paperback reprints also were published, ALPHATHOUGHTS (Boyds Mills Press/Wordsong) and AMAZING FACES (Lee & Low).

Renee LaTulippe and I completed “Spotlight on NCTE Poets” series. The last interview released was on Nikki Grimes. Forthcoming are me, J. Patrick Lewis, Joyce Sidman, and Marilyn Singer. See “Spotlight…” on top left corner of Home Page. Once again, I cannot thank Renee enough for the incredible amount of research she has done for this series. She has helped preserve the history of children’s poetry in the United States.

How proud I am to have been honored as Chancellor of the Florida State Poet’s Association, a four-year term – the first time a children’s poet has been honored.

On a personal front, Charles and I had a great year.  We expanded our property in Cape Coral, went on two wondrous cruises, found some extraordinary art pieces, attended a host of concerts and theatre productions, and continue to be blessed with many friends – old and new.

The biggest event of our lives was getting married last January. Officially January 20, is our first anniversary – after having met 45 years ago.

So – 2016: In March I shall receive the coveted Regina Medal from the Catholic Library Association. I am honored to be in the company of past medal recipients such as Judy Blume, Ashley Bryan, Madeleine L’Engle, Dr. Theodor Seuss Geisel (Dr. Seuss), Virginia Hamilton – all of whom I have (or had) the privilege of knowing as good friends.

2016! May it bring heaps of hugs to all – may it be a year – for you – for us.  Fill it with – best of all – love – as we travel onto tomorrows.