I am from ¨what's up buttercup¨

And dogs barking too loud to hear the tv.

 While theater bags pile on the ground,

From pet toys spread across the room.

I am from late night talks with Elizabeth 

Going till one

Or arguments with Autumn. 

From driving with my dad

 And shopping with my mom. 

I am from making pierogies in the dimly lit basement, 

Driving around to see Christmas lights, 

And youngest to oldest opening gifts

Me first.

With Lulu the bright red elf on the shelf

While Elf the movie plays in the background. 

Again.

I am from running around Pops land

Catching tiny fireflies as the sun starts to set.

And warm nights on the back porch 

Only lit from the kitchen lights inside,

Surrounded by extended family.

I am from loving my moms freckles

That run up and down her arms.

And a long line of redheads, 

all different shades. 

From liking the light red spots caused by dermatographism,

 Loving my perfectly round birthmarks,

And thinking about the small cut on my pinky.

I am from celebrating birthday week in August 

From sun tea and cracking green beans.

Long warm nights in the backyard 

Surrounded by a burning red fire.

From a family I love.