(Joy is the newest member of Spout and, currently, in the evenings she performs in the stage version of THE WIZARD OF OZ)

Growing up in a more stage-focused than film-focused family, I saw The Sound of Music on stage for the first time at age five. By all accounts, it made me crazy. I went around singing and dancing, thinking that at some point the orchestra would join in and we'd escape from suburban Atlanta to freedom on the other side of the mountain. That's not exactly what happened, but for years afterward it transported me into another realm, each time I joined the millions who tuned in to watch The Sound of Music on TV. At the time I was simply captivated; now I'm reflective, and aware of how much the movie (and others I watched over and over again) shaped my understanding of the world. Today marks the 40th anniversary of the film, and in its honor, I present this list of what The Sound of Music taught (and in some cases continues to teach) me.

1. Solfege (what the "Do-Re-Mi" song is about-the major scale)

2. When you're 16 going on 17, it's okay to have a secret boyfriend.

3. Clothes made from curtains can be both stylish and resourceful. A lesson reinforced by Gone With the Wind.

4. It's also okay to change your mind when you're trying to figure out what you want to be when you grow up.

5. Sometimes nuns can be gossipy.

6. Sometimes nuns can give great advice.

7. Singing "I Have Confidence" may help you in a new job.

8. The definitions of "goatheard," "champagne" and "edelweiss."

9. Rainy days are good because it means you can jump on the bed without getting in trouble.

10. Life takes unexpected turns and people who sing together stay together.