I am from different shades of blue for the state surrounded by water and known for the ocean.

 

I am from the blue house on the big hill with the long steps and the big tree, the only home I’ve ever known.

 

I am from Sunday dinners after church where the smell of maccaroni and gravy fills the room for the whole day.

 

I am from broken english, ricotta pies and pizelles, and faded pictures of a small village overlooking the Cervaro valley. 

 

I’m from the smell of the lilacs that line the trees in my back yard, connecting my house to my grandmas. 

 

I am from a large baby grand piano in the middle of my living room, out of tune and slightly dusty but still alive from all the music my mother has played on it. 

 

I’m from the sound of my dad’s truck pulling in the driveway as I look out the front window.

 

I am from American Girl dolls and games of Life.

 

I am from “Just do the best you can” and “I’m proud of you.” 

 

I am from “Leave people better than you found them,” the results of two parents with kind hearts. 

 

I am not from “Just worry about yourself.” 

 

I am from a family that goes above and beyond for each other, that always modeled how to go the extra mile for others. 

 

I am from the blue house on the big hill with the long steps and the big tree. 

 

i am from the big tree that no longer exists anymore, but still has the ability to ground me and keep me close to my roots.