2025/Hollis -

I am from Sunshine,

From beaches and crabs.

I am from the heat under the palm tree.

It tasted like fresh green coconut.

I am from the alligator state,

The juicy peaches

Whose clear, sky blue ocean

I remember as if it were my own.

I am from oranges and beaches,

From Patriot and War Fighter.

I am from the cool headed

And the lazy,

From “QUIET!” and “SHUSSH”

I am from the hurricanes and strong winds

With a giant alligator

And ten meals I can eat myself.

I’m from basketball and games,

Canes and Chick- Fil- A,.

From the friends lost to the PCS

To the cars used to keep me awake at night.

Under my bed was a purple box spilling dandelions,

A window opened and a gust of wind

To drift beneath my dreams.

I am from those moments-

Socializing before I get to know the person

I am a leaf growing from the family tree.

- Inspired by George Ella Lyon