I am from zooming down slopes on scooters
From my friend yelling “faster faster”
Jarrett passing me by yelling the whole way down until hitting a bump and becoming airborne as he flies into the grass.

I am from birthday party sleepovers where staying up till four in the morning makes you drowsy as you get up the next day groaning.
From waking up every day up every hour due to rowdy kittens trying to get us to play.
Mom coming down to chew us out for not falling asleep.

I am from furry cats, in the house, waiting to be found, juicy tomatoes, in the garden, hiding from greedy squirrels, and colorful fish, in my aquarium, hiding from curious eyes peeking through the glass.
I am from Christmas Eve nights, where the anxiety keeps you awake till all hour of the night tossing and turning wondering what Santa will bring that night.
I am from planting trees, where the excitement builds as you observe the trees getting bigger and bigger just like us.

I am from hot beaches in Destin inviting me to soak up some sun, deep homeruns, on the baseball field jolting my team as energy courses through our veins, and dark Halloween nights, in my neighborhood eerie but yet thrilling.
I am from the World of Coke, where the endless flavors tickle my taste buds, as I gulp them down.
I am from gleaming trophies on my shelf proudly displaying my accomplishments.

I am from Niagara Falls, where rushing water makes your eardrums rattle.
From yelling to talk to someone just an inch to your left.
Mom snapping photos trying to capture precious Kodak moments.

I am from my grandpa’s model cars, where shelf upon shelf in his basement is filled with rows of miniature cars.
From admiring all the different types and pondering how he made them so lifelike.
Grandpa informing us about how he acquired his vast majority of kits and which ones are his favorites.

I am from the Grand Canyon, where the vast canyon portrays just how puny you really are.
From yelling to hear the echo bounce off every little crevice and return to your ears.
Craig, my brother wanting to take a hike along the rim for a mile to take in the breathtaking scenery from every angle.

Memories are like trees, because every year you make new leaves as you explore new places with people very close to you. While every year you grow your trunk and form new branches.