Previously, I blogged about my unexpected introduction to Rosemarie, the eldest daughter born to Captain and Maria von Trapp. You can read it here. But, surprisingly, that is not my only experience meeting the von Trapp’s.
At a homeschool convention a few years ago, I was presenting History Via the Scenic Route, a workshop about making history come to life using music, geography, science, literature, and more. . . The room was packed out, but, in the midst of all the different faces, I kept noticing this lovely, elderly woman in the back. There was something about her that was striking, and I remember thinking at the time, “She looks like such an interesting woman. . .I wish I could meet her!”
My next presentation would begin only fifteen minutes after History Via the Scenic Route ended, and, because it was in a different room, I had to hurry to get my computer and notes packed up and out the door. As is common, though, lots of folks had questions about the workshop. (Side note: it is not EASY to make sense when you are scrambling!!)
As I was frantically packing the last cord, I heard a warm and cultured voice say, “Oh, you are not leaving yet, are you? I wanted to share something with you!”
I looked up, and there was that charming woman I had noticed earlier. She had such an engaging smile, and I was delighted that she wanted to talk with me—but there was no time. So I asked, “Would you mind chatting as we walk to my next room, as I only have a few minutes to set up for the next workshop?” She graciously complied, and, with her husband, strolled down the hall with me, sharing stories of some of the beautiful things she had seen in Europe—stories that, based on my lecture, she thought I would enjoy.
Just as we got to my next presentation room, as I prepared to reluctantly say goodbye to this marvelous conversationalist, she said, “I have one more thing I would like to tell you, but I am going to whisper it in your ear.” This was endearing, and I assumed it was something of an earlier generation’s manner.
Imagine my utter surprise when she whispered, “I am one of the von Trapp children. You must not tell anyone here, as there are always publicity hounds in every crowd.”
I looked at her with astonishment and delight!
“Oh!!! I met your sister several years ago in Florida!! She was with Bill Anderson, and they came to our hotel room for dinner, stories and singing with my family!!!”
It was HER turn to be astonished. But, yes, she remembered having heard about that meeting a decade prior.
Huge smiles all around. So many things to share, no time left. . .Then, with a quick hug and a gratefully amazed heart, I bid adieu to a second daughter of Captain and Maria von Trapp!!!
Thought you would enjoy that story. . . I cherish the memory!!!