I am from rolling blue waves on Okauchee lake.

I am from sunny days swimming in the refreshing water.
I am from grilling burgers in the diminishing light of the sunset...

Wanting to get out of the crowded rooms in Stone Bank Elementary,
hiking to inquire stunning views in the national parks,
learning to hunt elusive white-tail in my grandfather’s back yard—

I’m from, “Rub some dirt on it,”  “Suck it up,” and “Forget about it.”
From consuming practices, winding trails, and draining runs,
being myself no matter what.

I am from messy kitchen counters littered with papers and snacks.
I am from living rooms with warm-hearted family members.
I am from sound permeating the dank basement from the television...

Racing my brother down the concrete driveway,
sipping steaming soup in a dimly lighted dining room,
sliding down the frozen sledding hill behind the house—

I’m from “It’s not that cold out,” “We can do this,” and “‘Hey!  Watch this!’”
From Jim, Kris, Barb, and Dick, and Mary, and Ralph,
staying close to who I love.