I am from many fuzzy blankets

from acrylic paint and board games

I am from the craziness of family

debates, competition,

it sounded like a horn

I am from the mountains, the oceans, the smell of fresh air

I’m from the family dinners and the stubborn

from Raymond and Genevieve and Vincent

I’m from the loud talkers

and the laid back

from the work hard and live life like it’s your last day

I’m from holding hands on holidays,

and giving thanks

I’m from East Jefferson and Marseille, France,

French bread and cheese

From the hiding in closets to avoid getting shot

by my brother with nerf guns

The laughing dad keeping smiles on our faces

On shelves and bulletin boards

of us around the world,

with smiling, happy faces

I am from quality time with my family,

from across the Atlantic,

with love for who I am