The Sound of Music – How an Old Movie Can Connect Generations

Memories of The Sound of Music - Photo by Stephen McKay at Wikimedia Commons

Some movies seem to transcend time and may weave a thread that ties the young to the old. The other day as I was picking up my daughters from the childcare area at a gym, I began to sing "So long, farewell, auf weidersehen good-bye!" An adult in the nursery immediately caught a gleam in her eyes and joined in!

Sound of Music Tunes by Richard Rodgers - Photo World Telegram Staff Photographer from Wikimedia Commons

Yes, she remembered the movie The Sound of Music as well and began to sing with me. We stopped for a few moments to reminisce about memories of this amazing movie featuring memorable songs, scenes, and wonderful talent.

Ways to Connect Generations - Photo by Jonas Sternerson at Wikimedia Commons

Songs from the movie always make me think of sewing. My mom had a record of the sound track and would play it as she helped me learn to read sewing directions, cut out a pattern without cutting off the tabs, make a ruffle without breaking the threads, and attempt to make a finished product that would actually fit.

My daughters had never seen this classic musical from 1959. What a thrill to find the DVD at a nearby library! I then had the pleasure of watching with my girls as Maria became acquainted with the von Trapps and eventually transformed them into a family with a much richer harmony.

Maria VonTrapp History - Photo by U.S. District Court by District of Vermont at Wikimedia Commons

I did a little online research about the movie, its history, and cast members, and shared some of that information with my daughters. Mom mentioned that she remembered watching the television excitedly as someone interviewed the woman upon whose life the movie was based. My girls were curious about the flag and military presence in the movie and began to understand more of the world's history as we talked. They also learned that some of our ancestors had a pin cushion shaped like Hitler's rear end!

Although The Sound of Music is over 50 years old, the film captured my daughters' attention and they enjoyed the classic as much as any modern movie they have seen. I hope my girls will glean the idea of being brave enough to step in the directions they feel called to go.

Young and Old in One - by cartoonist W.B. Hill from Wikimedia Commons

Today if I happen to start singing a song from The Sound of Music, three younger voices join in. Those voices represent the hope of the future!

Find more of Katrena's articles about simple pleasures in life, scavenger hunts, printables, and more at Wildflower Bouquets.

Sasha Shops Salisbury Book Signing October 20 at Stitchin Post Gifts in Salisbury NC

Sasha Shops Salisbury - Find the Book at Stitchin Post © Katrena

Most folks and perhaps a few animals who have been shopping in downtown Salisbury have probably found a shop nestled close to the corner of Innes and Main at 104 S. Main Street. Stitchin Post Gifts is one of those shops that my kids love to visit. The shiny jewelry catches their dazzled eyes. The unique gifts and clothing items capture their attention. The Kit-Cat clocks mesmerize them, and the large stuffed animals seem to beckon from the aisles. But the biggest attraction for my kids is Sasha Kitty.

Enjoy Downtown Salisbury and Help Animals © Katrena

Sasha runs the shop. Well, perhaps that is a stretch, but she does live there. Sasha is the cat that might be gracing the front window, sashaying through the isles, or perhaps may be perched on a stool behind the cash register, watching to ensure that everything is done properly. She might even be hiding if there are large numbers of people shuffling in and out during a Salisbury Night Out event. Sasha is a special cat, loved by those who work and shop at the store. My kids adore Sasha and decide their day has definitely taken a turn for the best if they can get a glimpse of her!

Fund Raiser for Faithful Friends in Rowan County © Katrena

But my kids aren't the only ones who particularly love this furry feline. Sasha has quite a reputation in Salisbury, and now she has her own children's book! Sasha Shops Salisbury, written by Julie Apone and illustrated by Jean Barlow, gives Sasha the opportunity to introduce kids to some of the historic town's sites. Lots of kids have been anxiously awaiting the book and have been participating in a coloring contest as evidenced by the artwork proudly displayed on the front window.

Book Signing on October 20 at Stitchin Post © Katrena

On October 20, 2012, stop by Stitchin Post Gifts in Salisbury, NC for a book signing 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. WSAT will be broadcasting live from the store and folks can enjoy games, contests, prizes, and snacks that day. The event will help raise funds for Faithful Friends Animal Sanctuary, a no-kill animal shelter in Rowan County. Shelter volunteers will be available with kittens and puppies for those wishing to adopt a forever pet, and donations of Purina cat food or litter are greatly appreciated. You are also welcome to donate Purina dog food – just make sure to sneak that in when Sasha is not looking! Kids who come dressed as their favorite animal will have a chance to win a $50 Stitchin Post gift certificate.

Sasha Kitty on Her Couch With her Book at Stitchin Post - Photo provided by Julie Apone

Find more of Katrena's articles at:

• Wildflower Bouquets
• Travel NC With Kids
• Love 2 Travel With Kids