Where I'm From

*edited to add: I am not the originator of the "Where I'm From" essays - I have just read many other posts by women who also were not aware of its' origin! Deb has kindly directed us to an actual template (which I wish I had used!) - if you would like to follow the link and write your own! It is a wonderful exercise for the memory!
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I am from young love, childhood sweethearts, who were married at eighteen.

I am from “She’s supposed to be a boy!” followed by overwhelming love. From four brothers and three sisters, and neverending friendships.

I am from the hottest month of the year in Chicago; green skies, tornadoes. From humid nights, damp nightgowns, restless sleep.

I am from a mama who thought I was beautiful, and yet wanted to make me wear a sign as a toddler saying, "Please don't tell me I'm cute!" I am from being adorable, and knowing it.

I am from green shag carpet, from a four-story yellow house and a secret passage, a stairway leading from the fourth story to the second-story kitchen pantry. From sharing a giant room with my two brothers, and a gap in the ceiling visited by an owl.

I am from Fisher Price little people, the original Strawberry Shortcake and My Little Pony, and dress-up clothes.

I am from devouring Jane Eyre at the age of nine, and following it with Great Expectations.

I am from Shaklee vitamins, lentil burgers, and tofu. From head coverings in worship, and dancing with abandon in the back of the sanctuary.

I am from John Denver and Manheim Steamroller LP’s, lying on my tummy and closing my eyes as the music swirls around me.

I am from ballet, twirling and whirling, from trophies and classical music. From my Papa’s violin playing, overwhelmed by emotion as his fingers fly over the strings.

I am from riding my bike without my hands, and crashing on the curb; from bruised shins, skinny legs bumping the back of the wagon as my little brother rides.

I am from moving to a new state, nearer my grandparents, with mountain roads that terrify me.

I am from Win and Virginia, Ralph and Gail. From German, Czech, Mexican and Irish. From World War II soldiers and the women they left behind.

I am from “Don’t order a salad bar! Chili’ll put some meat on your bones!” courtesy of Grandpa K. From soft hugs in Grandma K.'s arms. From handmade dresses by Grandma S., and sweat interlaced with her quilting as I sit near enough to make us one. From Grandpa S. and his ear nibbles.

I am from painful shyness, and lowered eyes; from pulling out of hugs, wondering if my breath smells, or there is food in my braces.

I am from being “the best babysitter ever”, delighting in playing with children not my own, but cherishing them just the same. I am from a bank account full of money, and yet still the desire to buy my clothes second-hand.

I am from putting my baby sister to sleep every night with a bottle and a cuddle.

I am from weeping with joy at the age of sixteen, when Mama tells me she is pregnant again.

I am from leaving home when I am eighteen, and locking the deadbolt on my lonely apartment, wishing for my Papa.

I am from being hounded, until I return to the fold.

I am from dreams of a loving, faithful husband, a houseful of children, and a home of my own.

I am from…where I am going.