I am from a house on a hill, one that is dark yellow and very noticeable.

And from a small front deck with 3 wilting flower pots.

I am from my friends asking, “which house is yours” even though they already know.

And from a loud house, but all the neighbors around me never notice.

This is where I am from.

I am from burritos every Wednesday, the smell wafting through the house and making us long for dinner.

And from my dad saying “Get down to breakfast” and me pretending that I’m not there until he runs up and pinches my ear.

I am from never wanting to go to dinner because I’m in the middle of a book.

However,  I always end up having pizza when friends are over, but it is still only then.

And from normally having some chicken or pork along with a side of “healthy, lively” cauliflower or broccoli.

I am from Chinese food we have maybe once a month, when we get it it is like magic it’s gone so fast.

This is where I am from.

I am from my parents bust into the room and scream “It’s 7:00 wake up!” and I wait for maybe 15 minutes to finally get out of bed.

And from hearing the voices of my sisters hurtling comments at me 24/7, saying things like “Justin did this” and “Justin did that.”

I am from my dad screaming, “Time For Dinner,” making my nightmares come true…and staying in the same place, unwilling to go.

And from hearing the “take a shower” every afternoon.

I am from my friends calling me “Justino” and “Juice” and things like that.

This is where I am from.

I am from skiing every third weekend in Tahoe during the winter, going with friends and family.

I am from Switzerland and/or New York every year, visiting aunts, uncles, and grandparents.

I am from hosting a big crowd every Thanksgiving, friends and more friends and even more friends!

I am from sailing during the summer on Wednesdays, wind at my back, city skyline during the night, water4 all over the boat. And from having dinner with family only Sunday night.

I am from Christmas rotating every year,

This is where I am from.