I Am From

I am from sidewalk chalk, hopscotch in the driveway, and a perfect climbing tree.

I am from the smell of hay and leather, the nickering of horses, their soft whiskery noses.

I am from the house in the woods, the slapping of mosquitoes,

skating on the lake and swimming through the lily pads.

I am from scary stories by candlelight, s'mores toasted in the fire place,

spaghetti dinners and omelet breakfasts, all around our large kitchen table.

I am from bunk beds, you stay on your side of the room, and never telling

how I missed the late night giggling later in life.

I am from Because I said so, and I love you more, and

Oh what a beautiful morning, oh what a beautiful day.

I am from You can be anything you want and you're going to be someone special

and wishing I was someone special already.

I am from pointless and resentful church mornings

From two families trying to blend into one,

From always getting right back on the horse after falling off.

I am from Hamburger Helper, too many pixie sticks, and breaded pork chops.

From being at horse camp and missing my mother,

From wearing head gear at night with braces,

From Grandma singing Peter Bunny Cottontail, and then

Not recognizing who Cancer made her become.

I am from photo albums with missing covers, family trunks in my grandmother's attic,

The family history written out meticulously in her round, careful handwriting.

I am from old notes from friends, concert tickets in scrapbooks,

And the footprints of a son who lives only in my heart.

I am from Manketvitch women, strong bond between sisters and cousins.

I am from a confident young girl,

And now wonder, where did that confidence go?

And how do I

Get

It

Back?

I Am From meme.

Idea from Adventures in Babywearing.

I Am From