We try not to brag about the kids too much, because we know it can be awfully tiresome for anyone except us (and possibly the grandmas). But in this case we are going to shout Ellie's recent accomplishment from the virtual rooftop we have here.
First, a bit of backstory. While driving around New Hampshire last Thanksgiving, Ami taught the rest of us a song she learned in fifth grade. It includes the names of all fifty states set to a tune of sorts, with a brief prologue. I was amazed that she could remember anything from fifth grade -- I sure don't -- but a complete song, with so many details, was impressive indeed. But what really blew us away was Ellie's ability to memorize the entire song after just a few singings.
So that was pretty fun, we all sang "Alabama, Alaska, Arizona..." as our Honda dipped and curved through the New England hills. I even learned it myself. Several days later I could no longer remember large chunks of the song, but Ellie did. She sang it for fun, to herself or anyone who would listen, as part of her expanding library of tunes.
So, fast forward to a couple weeks ago. Apparently she was absent-mindedly singing the states song while toiling away in her kindergarten class, and her teacher overheard her. She asked Ellie if she could sing the whole thing, which of course she was happy to do. The teacher was floored. She immediately marched Ellie around to other teachers in the school and had her sing it to each one. Ellie took it all in stride, as is her way, and didn't even think to mention it to us until we happened to ask about something related.
A couple days ago, her teacher asked us if Ellie would be willing to perform her state song, solo, as the opening number at a big student assembly of all the 4th, 5th, and 6th graders. Ellie thought that sounded fun. Whose daughter is this, we wondered.
So today was her big day. I don't mind telling you, I was worried for her. I know at that age, I would have stood up there and froze, or more likely, got as far as Indiana and gone blank. I imagined this as the beginning of the end of Ellie's legendary confidence.
Turns out I should never have doubted Ellie. Here are the results -- and note that right around Kentucky, her microphone cuts out a little; if you turn up the volume you can hear her plowing through undistracted.
15 comments:
Way to go Ellie! Ben gave you a standing ovation from DC.
I remember learning that song. Although now I can't get passed Connecticut. Smart girl, that Ellie! And smart mom for remembering the song in the first place.
Not to cheapen Ami's achievements or Ellie's for that matter, I remember every word of that song too! It's quite catchy and has helped me out many times when trying to remember states.
Ellie amazes me very much with her ways. I can't see either of you getting up without pause and singing in front of the school. That's awesome to memorize that song (how many adults can name all 50 states?) But, not the least of all her achievements would be enjoying the stinky cheeses at her age. That floors me! Ellie's cool.
As one of the grandmas, I AM proud! What a girl! And I particularly liked the high five with one of her admirers at the end. Our (pick one: shy, reserved, quiet, introverted, rabbits in the headlights) family finally includes someone who is fearless. Hooray!
The song is a catchy one, indeed. I did actually edit out some of the intro bit by accident when I was teaching it to the kids, and then when I remembered it was there, I decided to skip it. Also the end part... you know the one where we voice our "individual, educational opinion." Too cheesy!
I'm glad everyone remembers it. I have to say, it's been a VERY handy song to know. It's the only way I've been able to remember all the states, and in alphabetical order no less.
Ellie is cool! And I'm glad she has the fearless quality that the rest of us seem to have either lost or never had.
We love Ellie. She is a rising star.
Grandpa & Grandma Anderson
Ellie IS amazing! We try to teach Sophie songs, but "Baa Baa Black Sheep", goes something like this: "baa baa back seep, haffyouennywooo, yessir, yessir, teebassfooo ..."
Ok...that may have been one of the cutest things I've heard! I wish I had been in 5th grade with all of you smarties!
Other Grandma here:MGA
WOW -We are really impressed !
Not even stage fright!
Ellie is amazing!
I am also impressed that Ami and Al know the song !
Way to go Ellie! She did that so clearly and didn't miss a beat. I liked her slightly more minor tune also. I also like her reach out to the fans. She is too cute...and also smart! What a gal.
I remember that song and it's true, it is a very helpful way to remember all 50 states. Now, if I can only remember Rockapella's "Captial" song all the way. I have the darndest time remembering all the capitals. (the main one being Frankfort, KY. What the? Sheesh).
I used the word 'also' a lot in that comment. Sorry.
Grandma MGA:
Just one more small note:
When we met our first "Mormon from Utah" in High School, my classmates and I decided Utah was part of New Zealand (because of her funny accent)
Tell Ellie she is way ahead!
(Maybe I should stay completely anonymous with that comment!)
OH I am so proud of my little Ellie Machine! She is so smart, and so good. I am pretty sure I cannot name all the states, especially in alphabetical order. What a bright, shining light she is.
Nevaaaadaa!
Wow! What a show! She was so cute :-) She didn't even flinch. She just plowed right through with no trouble! It was fun to watch. You'll have to teach her all the capitols next.... :-)
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