Two nights ago, I heard Mel Brooks use the phrase “a brushstroke of sweetness” near the end of the lovely HBO documentary about his life and career. I said to myself, “I’m gonna steal that.” And I did.

On the day my daughter was born Grandma saw the love and worry deep in my eyes - she said let me tell you what my grandma told me, honey Never was there better advice

Give them a brushstroke of sweetness Give them a smile from your heart Give your time and your ear Hold them close, hold them dear Love them for who they are

Now both of my kids are in high school I strive to help them be the best they can be It’s hard to know just what to do Then I hear my grandma say to me

Give them a brushstroke of sweetness Give them a smile from your heart Give them your time and your ear Hold them close, hold them dear Love them for who they are

Just try hard Just be there Don’t give up And make share to remember what grandma shared

Give them a brushstroke of sweetness Give them a smile from your heart Give them your time and your ear Hold them close, hold them dear Love them for who they are