I am from the pages of stories,

Read at bedtime and throughout the day.

From a teacher’s daughter and a contractor’s son,

One of three colors of hair.

I am from thistles and dandelions,

Of carnations that change like days.

Of tall grasses pushed down to make a nest

And warm fur of animals laying close by.

I remember the sweet smell of meat cooking

3 days in homemade sauce.

The calling for “You with the hair”

To set the table.

The sound of unclipped paws and toes

On wooden floors, up and down the hallway.

Tells stories of growing pains, family parties,

sibling squabbles, and renovation plans.

I am from hiking trails and comfy couches,

From open fields and fenced in pools.

I am from horse corrals and café tables,

The country chic and modern comfort.

From eucalyptus trees and wild lemongrass,

To avocado groves and gardens of flowers and herbs.

I am from busy minds and lazy days.

I am from an eclectic mindset and an open heart.