I am from linoleum tiles
From Lysol and Play-Doh
I am from the morning glory covered fence
And muddy fingers tossing muddy balls
From the filthy, no longer white minivan

I am from mismatched chairs
Crowded around mismatched tables
From late-night chats
And elves in the walls
From early risers
With Matt Lauer and Katie Couric

I am from sarcasm galore
I am from “do as I say” and “follow my lead”

From Lazarus rising from the dead
And a craft to go along
From menorah lightings one day
And Christmas tree lightings the next

I am from the buds of Rob and Janet
Extension five of six on the large tree
I am from fresh gravy with plenty of garlic
From cookies that look like fish
With purple sprinkles that coat your hands and face

I am from Grandpop on the fireplace
Who was cause for a milestone law-suit
From Mary
Who set out olives for my siblings and I

I am from a Grandmother’s rec-room full of shelves
And books
And Alf
From Diplomas hung neatly
From gag gifts that reduce us to tears of laughter and glee
I am from clay formed by a grandchild
And kept until it cracks
I am from a wall of photos
Made by the bark of the family tree