I am from a small city,
from many friends, and the Waco Waterpark that is now Hawaiian Falls.
I am from my dad pushing me and me swimming back as fast as a torpedo.
From The House of Night, Maximum Ride, and Vladimir Tod.

I am from cheese-stuffed crust pizza, my great grandmother’s Big Mamma Cookies that were peanut buttery, sweet, and as chewy as fruit snacks. I am from Sherri and Jeremy, now Michelle and Jeremy, and Sherri and Pete. I’m from the know-it-alls and the keep-it-between-you-and-I’s, from Stop crying! and Put a smile on that face!

I’m from Bush’s Chicken and Taco Bell, crispy fried chicken, and buttery popcorn.
From the finger my grandfather lost during his job, the life my brother is willing to lose in the army once he gets out of high school.

In a drawer in my room is every birthday card I’ve received, filled with faded names and faces I don’t remember, but are in my dreams.
I am from those cards, read to me or by me, lost memories I may not ever find.