I’m from sticky, sugary, smothered fingers

from adventurous bike rides

to the downtown decadent doughnut shoppe.

I am from scary bedtime stories underneath the cozy blanket forts

and jumping from pillows to avoid falling

into the hot lava formed below.

I’m from mornings filled to the brim

with impatient, squirmy kids

awaiting swim lessons at the Hartford recreation center.

I’m from foil-wrapped, rainbow colored sweets

and Hello Kitty stickers from the busy

Aurora Pharmacy in the strip mall.

I am from the teal, grainy eyeshadow,

overused highlighter and peachy-pink pearl blush

as I pose for the camera with my love-filled sisters.

I’m from award-winning smiles and cheering parents.

I am from July 2011, the crack,

the pain shooting throughout my foot..

I am from that tear-stained dress

from mile long sighs and bridal songs

from aching feet of adoration.

I am from these moments,

from rustic picture frames and graceful, golden rings

from messy hair and color-coated Crayons.