I’m from rising with the morning sun
and “Kiss an Angel goodmorning.”
From dandelion-picking
and messy morning kitchen masterpieces.
I am from lady bug collections,
raw feet and scabby knees.

I’m from picnics in the yard,
and “Jiminy Cricket.”
From grass-eating
and slimy fish kisses.
I am from campfire marinated sweatshirts,
frog fingers and painted turtle bathing.

I’m from tree climbing
and “You’re my sunshine.”
From dusty fields
and spooky night swamp scouting.
I am from stargazers,
lightning bug catchers and streetlight seekers.

I’m from kindergarten tears
and “Put a smile on.”
From breakfast go fish
and cribbage players.
I am from crunchy hearts,
butterfly kisses and sticky mouths.

I’m from discount bookstores,
and “My little china doll”
From raspberry picking  
and sailing scavenger hunts.
I am from wrinkly prune toes,
tangled hair and charcoal fingers.

I’m from the best things in life aren’t things.