I am from . . .

I am from white Keds tennis shoes, Velveeta Shells and Cheese, and Sonic ice.

I am from parachute pants, jelly shoes, and neon shirts. I am from Strawberry Shortcake, Sesame Street, Laffy Taffy, and IBC root beer. I am from "this is Big Bird, don't roll over and go back to sleep." I am from decorating Easter eggs, piano lessons, and reading books all night in the closet.

I am from the Old Rip Festival, Maverick stadium, the Majestic theater, the drag on a Saturday night, and fireworks popping at the lake on the fourth of July.

I am from the mesquite (both the tree and BBQ), the bluebonnets, and the name of every wildflower on the side of the road.

I am from puzzles with Mema and coffee in bed and a love of geneology, from Gayle and Julie, Loyd and Opal, and Mark and P.J.

I am from never saying no to someone that needs help and always making the cake the way the child wants it, not what their mother ordered. I am from peach cobbler that few can make, but many take credit for.

I am from better than snuff on a nanner and coffee will put hair on your chest and a bollix, whatever that is. I am from do you love me more than you loved me before you learned to love me like you love me now?

I am from Acteen Activators and mission trips. I am from the word of God and a love for Christ. I am from VBS. I am from my mother's faith.

I am from Texas, England, American Indian, Black Dutch, and Ireland, homemade chili and juliecake (now known as Nancake). I am from deer stands and venison, family vacations with flowers on the table, and riding bikes until dark. I am from Friday night football, band, kittens, and yellow roses.

I am from always giving a great story to answer the question, whether you really know the answer or not, the kittens that were really skunks on the wagon train trail, and the glasses being flushed down the toilet that she wanted to keep.

I am from the family Bible, the stories at Thanksgiving, and the laughter that rings through the house as the hot chocolate is poured on Christmas morning. I am from the mystery of Santa Claus, a bucket of oats on the den floor, and the truth of the Christmas play put on by two small children.

I am from a million blessings. And now where shall I go?