I am from forest green backyard swing sets,
From American Girl dolls and softball mitts
I am from a city of gritty, hardworking people back on the rise
And neighborhood block parties
I am from lilac trees whose fragrant perfume permeated the house on sunny spring and summer days
I am from endless amounts of photographs and museum memberships
From Beaudoins and Forsbergs, and McNishes, Shannons, and Binghams
I am from industrious workers and ceaseless generosity
And from high expectations
From never hesitating to go the extra mile for family
I am from the loudest mother-daughter duet in the Church pews
I am from Christian, Mose, and Carol Jean,
From Christine, Bill, and Carol Ann
From bow tie pasta salad in the summer and homemade Chex Mix at the holidays
From moving cross-country to attend college and realize dreams
And from strong ties to cultures and family traditions
From jamming to Neil Diamond and The Beach Boys on summer boat rides Up North
I am from those memories and moments and people that I will keep close to my heart for the rest of my life