I’m from the white and black house,
that’s painted with different colors on the inside.
From the basketball courts, ball diamonds, and river, lakes, and ponds,
where I honed my fishing skills, and pitted myself against my quarry.

I’m from the hand-me-downs and sibling rivalry,
trying to be better than the other.
From relating my favorite tunes to the songs I made,
defining myself with each note.

I’m from cheesy potatoes and Corn Flake chicken,
after riding horses and exploring.
From family gatherings that seemed like they could go until my own hair was grey,
that end in lasting goodbyes and meaningful memories.

I’m from baseball games at Miller Park,
where I learned to keep score and to swing.
From Cracker Jacks, peanut shells and tailgates,
my life revolving around baseball.

I’m from the basketball court, where life played out before me,
in the problems and solutions of the game.
I’m from the ball diamond, in the sticky, humid summer heat,
learning the in’s and out’s from my spot behind the plate.

I’m from neighborhood walks with my pal, Rico,
and the tears shed when he passed.
From the cigar smoke and glory stories,
and the dreams of going to Canada with my uncles.

I’m from East Washington Avenue in Madison,
and the cornfields and farmland of Cuba City.
From the house in Oak Creek,
to the one in Oconomowoc.

I’m from Johnny Cash, CCR and the Beach Boys,
where I learned about my past.
From Led Zeppelin, The Beatles and the Rolling Stones,
where I learned about my future in music.

I’m from the loss of my Grandpa’s when I was young
and the emptiness I felt.
From the realization that all must pass
And finally realizing that life is all about change and family.