Crystal Kite Award

Last spring, I was notified that The Friendship Doll was selected by the membership of the Society of Children's Book Writers and Illustrators (SCBWI), Western region, to receive a much coveted Crystal Kite Award. I say coveted because this is an award bestowed by fellow book creators. 

Deb followed the instructions and wore white gloves!

Thursday night, I was toasted at our local SCBWI-Washington meeting (with what Regional Advisor Joni Sensel wittily called a champagne substitute!) and presented with the stunning award by dear friend, Deb Lund. Deb made a charming speech about the 4 "Hs" of Kirby; I was so dazed I only remember one: she said I was "hip." That was almost as good as the award!

I would be remiss if I did not mention the other AdCom members who worked to make the night so special: Kim Baker, Jaime Temairik, and Dana Sullivan who created an amazing banner that greeted us all as we entered the auditorium. If I left anyone out, I'm sorry. 

I am touched by this wonderful honor and, as I told the audience members that night, I will dose myself with it when those hard times come. Because they will come. But they are so much easier to bear when you know you are held in the hearts of so many talented and caring book creators.