Childhood Memories with Anna
My sisters and I were small. Gilda was perhaps one, Nora was three, and I was five. We lived in a three-story house with our parents and numerous staff. Each of my sisters had their own nannies, while I was meant to share with Nora. But my favorite was Anna, Gilda’s nanny.
Anna, a young Russian émigrée, had a contagious smile that lit up the room. She had long blond hair braided into pigtails, giving her a joyful appearance. Our playroom was where we spent time together, with Anna telling stories and humming lullabies.
Early mornings with Anna were special. She woke us up, prepared our breakfast of kogel mogel, and made sure we were cleaned up afterward. We danced and sang before greeting our parents, who were often busy with work. When my mother fell ill and left for treatment, Anna became my comforting companion, taking me on outings and showing me a different world at the public baths.
I felt the warmth and camaraderie of Anna and her friends at the hamam, a stark contrast to my lonely days at home. Despite missing my mother, Anna’s presence brought me comfort and joy. One fateful winter day, tragedy struck when Anna was fatally hit by a car during her day off. Her sudden absence left a void in our lives, but her kindness and laughter live on in cherished memories.
Anna will always be remembered as a special angel in the narrator’s childhood, bringing light and kindness during a difficult time.