Where I'm From

I am from hardwood floors

From candles and glass

I am from the big backyard       

With the perfect swing for sleeping in the sun

I am from the five gardens

The apple tree

Whose long gone limbs I remember

As if they were my own

I’m from Secret Santa and freckles

From Veronica and Michael

I’m from loud mouths and short tempers

And from long weekly road trips

On The Cross Bronx Expressway

I’m from do more and work harder

And family first

I’m from back alleys and green mountains

Thin-crust pizza and pot roast

From a stolen station wagon      

Filled with Christmas presents

Floral printed photo albums

Splayed across the house

Like art.