Where I'm from

I am from glasses, from Comet and Scotch brand scrubbing sponges.
I am from the wild, green waters of Puget Sound.
Bright green or dark gray, wild or calm, its sight is always comforting.

I am from laughter and tears that come easily.
I am from the huggers and the can’t-bear-to-leaves.
From Lorraine and John, and Bob and Mel.

I am from chaos and debating, from loud and laughter.
From I love you and I’ll be proud as long as you do your best.
I am from spirituality and firm beliefs. From Holy Rosary, CCD and Grandpa Paul.

I am from Seattle and Croatia, from sauerkraut, kiflice and zaia.
From somewhere in the middle of “Mikey was the first and Laura was the twenty-first,”
from countless fishing expeditions on the St. Nicholas with Grandma Clara in the galley
and Cap at the wheel.

I am from Hallmark Christmas ornaments packed away in the original boxes with care each
year. A host of memories and a record of time passed.

I am from those moments –
Deep roots and reaching leaves,
All part of the same family tree.