I am from bonfires, barns and brown boxes,
from dressing up as princesses with my cousin.
I am from the white house with blue shutters to the greenhouse at the end of the street.
From long brown hair and the nickname Talia.

I am from Grammy and Meanier coming every weekend,
from non-stop board games.
I am from the broken swing in the backyard,
from stepping on the stink bombs that would fall from the trees.

I am from late night buttered toast with dad.
From the saying “There is no such thing as perfect.”
I am from riding bikes down to watch the trains,
from driving hours to see my Nana.

I am from red barns full of smelly animals and cows falling in the pools,
from playing in the dirt and gator rides.
I am from reuniting with childhood friends,
from coming home and picking on my little sister.

I am from hairspray at dance, tossing my flag at practice,
from going to the range and shooting my bow.
I am from a couple hundred people town called Oak Ridge,
from picking up and leaving the state.

I am from being the lonely new girl again, scared, trying to find my way,
from making friends and starting over.
I am from soda to pop and sneakers to tennis shoes.
From Long Island to New Jersey, now to Wisconsin.

I am from Mom’s busy job and not seeing her for weeks,
from coming home to Dad, sister and dogs.
I am from competitions on weekends,
from family telling me good luck.

I am from playing corn hole in the backyard with the family,
from fireworks flying into corn fields and hitting cows.
I am from deviled eggs at Easter,
from cancer, death and funerals,
To heartaches and tears.

I am from ADHD and vision therapy,
from glasses and tutors
I am from late night homework and no sleep,
from waking up early to get extra help.

I am from ignoring the negativity in the world
From bringing smiles to peoples faces.
I am from a family who loves me and friends I adore.
To Where I Am Today!