I am from China,
being the new baby of the family,
And not knowing what was happening.

I am from my sister spilling milk on me,
While trying to feed me.
From her denying it whenever I bring it up,
And dozing off, face down, in my food when I am tired.

I am from new “Big Girl” cribs
Even though I will still climb into Mom’s bed.
I am from nightmares.

I am from watching Barney in the mornings
With my sister and grandmother and grandfather.

I am from puppies brought by Santa Clause,
And staying up late with my sister awaiting his mystifying arrival,
From always being amazed when he came.

I am from singing to “The Little Mermaid” soundtrack everyday
On the way to preschool.
From locking my grandmother out of her car at 3 years old.

From dropping bacon into her purse by accident,
And her finding it while sitting in the church pew, searching for a hard candy.

I am from growing up in two different houses, (Mom and Grandmother)
And an all girl family.

I am from mending my “blankey” millions of times,
Even though the holes will reappear in a few months.
From dragging it everywhere I go
And still sleeping with it.

I am from summer adventures to McCall,
From the soothing hiss of the waves at night,
And waking up early to get on the water while it is still glass.

I am from school orchestra
And getting singled out way to many times,
From expressing my feelings through music
And always wanting to play more.

I am from where it all began, China.