Where I'm From

I am from walking to the store in the final cracks of sunlight 'cause we ran out of milk.
I am from the melancholy coo of doves in the afternoon and the long lost bells of the ice cream man.
I am from stuffed animal parades, Barbie's Cinderella coach, and always pink leggings.
I am from coasting the hills in a gold Cadillac, throwing my hands up in the air like in a roller coaster.
I am from two cities, five houses, and two apartments.

I am from the in-betweens, the I'm-not-sures, and the uncertain moments.
I am from the art of moving away, sneaking in, and running out.
I am from flying, and landing in snow.
I am from crying, and hoping my tears don't show.
I am from changing environments every week, and finally getting my own house key.
I am from being in charge of the phone but not my brother.

I am from never breaking a bone, fracturing a limb, or spraining an appendage.
I am from being tall enough to reach the monkey bars and long enough to skip bars.
I am from not ralphing on spinny rides, punch buggie no punchbacks, and it's my turn in the front seat.
I am from climbing on the roof, stealing my mom's mousse, and late afternoon block parties.
I am from the East Bay, in flux as to where to call home.