This is Where I am From

I am from the ancient deck of cards in the tall dresser,

From Bob’s mints and strong, homemade coffee.

I am from the endless land surrounding grandma’s storied house.

Infinite, immense,

it felt like there was ALWAYS something to do.

I am from the old tree in grandma’s front yard,

where each childhood photo was snapped.

Or the one tree, that holds the black and worn tire swing,

each of us grandkids have swung in.

The river snaking through the pasture,

Which holds too many memories to count.

I wish every day that I could replay them.

I’m from the trips to eat great feasts to brown eyes,

From Gesine and Alfonse and Elva.

I’m from the smart alecks,

and the Pollocks.

From Sit up! and Calm down!

I’m from religiously watching football,

every spare second of time.

I’m from a hospital bed in my hometown and a month later,

one in a bigger community.

Ice cold lemonade and fried chicken.

From the time Amanda got sick.

Really, badly sick,

To the day my favorite cousin and his amazing fiance were wed.

In the old dresser or the low, birch cabinet,

situated in different family rooms

I am from the moments I remember all too well,

to those that haven’t happened yet.

-Oliver, the cat