I am from eyes so brown they are almost black,

From a ponytail of curly, brownish-reddish hair.
I am from the tomboy of the class—athletic shorts, t-shirt, and tennis shoes,
from a strong body, strong mind, and strong character.

I am from the first day of freshman year, packed three to a seat on the bus,
from the crisp Friday night football games and “LET’S GO, HAWKS!!!”
I am from curling my hair, zipping up a fancy dress, sliding into high heels for homecoming,
from staring down the clock at the end of tenth hour–“tick...tick...tick.”

I am from a scarlet, Columbia blue, and white uniform,
from two hundred hours of work in the off-season and ten minutes of game time.
I am from knowing and accepting my role,
from losing my voice, hands stinging, and body aching.

I am from six sisters—not blood related,
from sleepovers and lunch dates to Qdoba.
I am from laughing until I can’t breathe,
from the seven watching the sunset at Lapham Peak. 

I am from one more best friend, different than the others,
from learning to love his homemade country music CD’s.
I am from sharing his passion for fishing and being on the water,
from his sensitivity and willingness to go out of his way to help others.

I am from summer days on Okauchee Lake–80 degrees and blue skies, 
from soaking up the sun and floating near the pier.
I am from “The Wisconsin” cheese sub, Doritos, and Mountain Dew,
From singing “Crushin’ It” at the top of our lungs.