I am from the sound of soothing waves crashing, and a short walk to the beach. 

I am from living right around the corner from my friends and seeing them after school. 

I am from a room that always feels like it’s sub-zero even if it’s 90º outside. 

I am from hoping the 49ers and Giants win the Super Bowl and World Series every season. 

I am from attempting to be an amazing snowboarder, able to carve through the snow like a knife on my board but ever so often catching an edge and going down hard on my face. 

I am from trying to draw well but never being satisfied.

I am from playing football in burning heat or icy temperatures that cut through your clothes. 

I am from pouring hot sauce on anything that it can be poured onto feel a tingly burning sensation that I enjoy.

I am from getting juicy burgers that fall apart in my mouth from Connecticut Yankee every Friday.

I am from eating sushi that leaves your mouth feeling spectacular with my mom and sister, while gulping hot miso soup. 

I am from drinking cool, refreshing root beer on special occasions. 

I am from loathing bananas with every fiber in my body and NEVER EVER EVER tasting one. 

I am from going to Tahoe in the freezing, icy, crowded, windy Winter and in the warm, colorful summer.

I am from either being glued to the TV or to the car radio with my dad every time the 49ers or Giants play, groaning when the other team scores and high diving each other when we score.

I am from my dog straining on the leash on our cold walk to get dinner. 

I am from my dad after every wave I surf yelling tips to me and when to stand up as I nod and try them on the next wave.

I am from people saying I’m helpful.

I am from having to wear a hot itchy mask all day.

I am from getting constantly told to social distance by teachers and always drifting back to my friends unconsciously. 

I am from watching racism but nothing being done. 

I am from Covid changing the world.

I am from having the first Vice President who isn’t a white male.

I am from local businesses closing.

This is where I am from.