Last night my entire family gathered for my niece Annie's graduation from 8th grade. In addition to receiving an award for earning Honor Roll status for most terms since the 5th grade, she also received a prestigious award for service named for the first principal of her parochial school. This achievement is especially sweet since my aunt was once principal of this same school. Annie is a kind and compassionate young lady with a very bright future. I am so proud of her and of her accomplishments.
Following the graduation ceremony, our entire family headed to a local restaurant for dinner. Cheerful chatter continued throughout the meal. My grandchildren, Austin (7 years old) and Haley (3 years old), had a great time, too. One of the highlights for me was having Haley sit on my lap for quite some time. I sang into her little ear "The Perfect Nanny" from Mary Poppins. Several months ago I introduced her to the movie and she loved it, especially that song. So I sing it to her whenever she is sitting on my lap. And she always wants to hear it again and again.
When dinner ended, both Austin and Haley wanted to ride with me as we headed home. Once buckled into our seats and on the road to their house, I sang for them two songs I sang to my sons when they were little boys. They loved the songs and I loved singing to them. My mother used to sing in the car, I continued the tradition with my children, and now I'm singing to my grandchildren, too. Tradition is so sweet.
The Perfect Nanny
If you want this choice position
Have a cheery disposition
Rosy cheeks, no warts!
Play games, all sort
You must be kind, you must be witty
Very sweet and fairly pretty
Take us on outings, give us treats
Sing songs, bring sweets
Never be cross or cruel
Never give us castor oil or gruel
Love us as a son and daughter
And never smell of barley water
If you won't scold and dominate us
We will never give you cause to hate us
We won't hide your spectacles
So you can't see
Put toads in your bed
Or pepper in your tea
Hurry, Nanny!
Many thanks
Sincerely,
Jane and Michael Banks.
Written by: Richard M. Sherman and Robert B. Sherman
