Lois Ehlert...forever her beautiful work and spirit will be a gift to me!

This is me, circa 2009-ish, with the incredible Lois Ehlert.

I was lucky enough to have met her twice. Here, the first time, I was crazy-gushing fan girl. I'm certain I may have scared her a little. (I will admit to having been this insane only four times in my life: When I met Kate DiCamillo, Katerine Applegate, Tony Diterlizzi [sorry again, Angela] and Lois!).

The second time, we presented at the same conference (unreal, right?!). During her presentation, she tried to talk a bit about "Hands," but her editor had to fill in the blanks when Lois became emotional — because the book was both a tribute to and a poignant reminder of Lois' parents. I was so touched by this moment. Even In her 80's, she was still so deeply her parents' loving, grateful daughter.

She also talked about her book "Ten Little Caterpillars." During the process of illustrating it, someone in the sales office posed the question, "Don't you think it might be a little too scary for children... with all the caterpillars 'disappearing' like that?"

Lois, in her typical humorous and matter-of-fact fashion, reportedly quipped back, "Oh, I don't think so. I think that children are well-aware that caterpillars lead a precarious existence."

Chicka Chicka Boom Boom was the first book — the first THING — I bought when I learned I was pregnant for the first time. Her work is forever tied with my memories of my own children and motherhood.

Her beautiful work and spirit will forever be a gift to me.

Rest In joy, Lois. I'm sure your parents were so happy to hug you again.

And, thank you for everything.