I’m from summer nights
playing basketball in the driveway untill
my parents called me in to go to bed.
From day football games with my friends
during a downpour while mud stuck to the bottom of our shoes
for days.
From pumping my arms repeatedly, to picking
my legs up with the strides I took,
hoping that the last mile of my 5K approached.

I’m from spending time with the family up in the northwoods
with at least three feet of snow on the ground.
From jokes that make the house errupt in laughter.
From my parents backing me in
my college decision, even
if that means not attending their alma mater.

I’m from morning car rides
up to Lambeau to enjoy a slab of meat before the game.
From meeting my favorite athlete of all time
down in the baking sun in Phoenix.
From using my Louisville Slugger to belt my first home run while the
sun beat down on me
like I was a chocolate chip cookie in the oven.