Tuesday, February 1, 2011

Where I'm From

My cousins, Anna and Martha, started this with a homework assignment and then a followup. I loved it, but wasn't going to do my own until challenged...sotospeak. Now, I'm so glad I did. It really brings back so many amazing memories of a childhood filled with love and joy and an extraordinary family that most could never relate to.

I’m from treehouses built out of scrap wood, raw milk, and walks across the 71st street bridge for a 27 cent burger, including tax.

I am from the huge garden in the backyard near the chicken coop, the tiny house with the attic bedrooms and the flooded yard that doubled as a rainy day pool.

I am from the fruit trees in summer, the pond up the street where we were chased by bad tempered geese.

I am from “place and pillows saved” and love that knows no bounds, from Bell and Castagna, and an equal partnership of matriarch and patriarch.

I am from the one couch for ten people and food waits for no sleeping person.

From a long line of strong women and stories told again and again and again, until eventually all but one or two have heard and others more than once.

I am from church is the people, God is real and loves us really, and the attitude of service. From home is where the heart is, but home is wherever you are at the moment.

I’m from the windy city, real southern living and the golden state, from Mom’s spaghetti that now has chucks, and melt in your mouth caramelitas.

From the “looking down on you with respect”, the Great Depression with only one day out of work, the love of teenagers who met in a Jewish deli.

I am from hallways of age progression cousins and Christmas Eves taking turns looking through scrapbooks before opening presents.

I am from multiple parts that make a whole and pieces of an intricate puzzle that make a beautiful picture.


Now, why don't you try one? You can post the link in the comments section.