2024/Allia-

I am from the land of the Rocky Mountains,

from dream lake and black bears.

I am from the Garden of the Gods under the water.

land, tree, it tasted like salt.

I am from the Pike Peak

the Centennial State

Whose dogs I remember

as if they were my own.

I’m from “Do your chores.” and “Take the dogs out.”

from “Don’t hit your sisters.” and “Do the dishes.”

I’m from the running clubs

and the soccer clubs,

from your annoyance and I love you!

I’m from learning Swedish 24/7

With a little inspiration

and ten problems I can solve myself.

I’m from beauty and silence,

White and lavender flowers and dandelions.

From the fields lost

To the tree,

used to keep me alive.

Under my bed was a basket of blankets

spilling purple dandelions

A drift between the stars of the sky

To drift beneath my dreams

I am from those moments-

that I remember before I blink-

Peace and quiet fallen from my sleep.