I am from the plains of south Louisiana,
From the Shaky grounds in California.
I am from Metairie to Kenner to Destrehan,
From the place I call home.

I am from the pots and pans under the sink.
I am from storybooks and swing sets,
From The Hungary Caterpillar and Spooky Night.
I am from hide-and-seek and peek-a-boo.

I am from blueberries and strawberries,
From pecans and the shell.
I am from Aunt Jerry’s homemade Strawberry Shortcake,
From the many vegetables I no longer like.

I am from pecans out front and blackberries out back.
I am from wooden swing sets and, “You’re It!”
From Daddy leaving and babies being born.
I am from the way we laughed, Mom and I.

And most of all,
I am from me.

Krista Patman
1st place 7-8
LA Writes! 2010
Harry Hurst Middle School
Destrehan, LA

used with permission of LA Writes!