I am from neighborhood 4th of July parades.

The smell of hamburgers, hotdogs and barbeque lingers in the air—

as the sun sets, flashlights flutter, friends scurry catching the twinkling lightning bugs.  

I am from visiting Alabama with family friends during the summer.

From swimming and relaxing, to playing Headless Horseman and Ghosts in the

Graveyard on the beach...walking to the local ice cream shop nightly.   

I am from playing outside until sunset, no structure or schedule.

From lemonade stands, to homemade ziplines, to fantasy forts in the backyard,  

unfortunately, being the first one pushed down the steep hill

I am from exploring slippery slides after rainfall, to running in cornfields during hunting season

From rollerblading, electric scootering, and climbing tall trees or steep hills,

summers feeling carefree, careless and confident.    

I am from camping in our RV every summer, excited for each new adventure.

Feeling claustrophobic in a confined space with 12 people for weeks on end

From building a ferocious fire to roasting burnt marshmallows.

I am from a proud family, an American and a proud British immigrant.  

Excited for the holidays, participating in British traditions,  

fulfilling my dreams of traveling to England…travelling is enjoyable

I am from baking with my best friend during the holidays.

New recipes from chewy chocolate chip cookies and brownies to zesty lemon bars

the aroma of rich chocolate fills the room...friendship, fun and a bright future ahead.

I am from going to farmers markets during the summer.

The taste of fresh, juicy, red tomatoes in my mouth

Bright, colorful, vegetables into a surprisingly spicy salsa and creamy guacamole.

No matter where I am in the world, the United states or England

In the end, Family and Friends shape the way I am today

Strong, determined, and ready to take on the world.