I am from breezy summer days on the Jersey Shore,
from bright nights in New York City,
shopping till we drop.
I am from diners, deli’s, and bagels,
from summer pool parties to comfy bonfires.

I am from Moving 975 miles away from home,
from leaving my friends and family I care deeply about. 
I am from moving into a new house and meeting new people,
from starting at a new school, and making new friends.
I am from “Who’s the new girl?”,”Were you friends with Snooki?” and “Why don’t you talk with an accent?”

I am from a family of five,
from sisters going off to college,
leaving me home alone.
I am from cross country car rides to visit my sisters,
from nights wishing they would come home.

Now I am from a lonely house,
from a puppy running around,
and hour long games of knockout in the basketball court.
Now I am from “bubblers,” “You betcha,” and “Come here once.”
from living in the dairy state, and finding out I’m lactose intolerant.

I am from going up north every weekend,
from fishing on the boat, and tubing with my friends.
I am from going to church at 8:00 Sunday mornings with Grandma,
from enjoying her homemade rolls for dinner.

I am from becoming an Arrowhead Warhawk,
from meeting new people at Wings,
to dancing with my team on the football field.
I am from staying up until midnight studying for tests,
from waking up at 5:00 reviewing flashcards.

I am from visiting my friends and family back in New Jersey,
from “It’s been so long,” “I missed you so much,” and “Please move back.”
I am from emotional hugs and teary eyes,
from it’s not goodbye, its see you later...