Where I am From

I am from crossing the Oregon Trail, settling on fertile ground, and clearing the land one mammoth fir at a time.

I am from blisters on your thumbs, dirt under your fingernails, and sweat on your neck.

I am from building a home and a farm, and raising a handful of generations there.

I am from getting up before the sun rises, hidden behind grey rain-soaked clouds over not so distant timber covered hills.

I am from hot summer afternoons, hay bales as far as the eye can see, and a chocolate shake after the last one goes in the barn.

I am from 12-inch trout, a river runs through it, and swimming on hot days in the icy mountain water as it meanders slowly past.

I am from Sunday afternoons, the constant variety of sports, and sudden outbursts of genuine emotion.

I am from small gymnasiums, the squeaking of sneakers, hoop dreams, and guaranteed playing time.

I am from co-ed dorms, choosing majors, late night parties, No-doz, and pomp and circumstance.

I am from returning home, real world troubles, and working 16 hour days.

I am from finding true love, tough decisions, and saying goodbye.

I am from changing directions, changing perspectives, and spectacular views of city skylines.

I am from tearing off trim, pulling carpet staples at 2 in the morning, late night kisses, bucket loads of paint, and yet another trip to The Home Depot.

I am from years of trying, utter disappointment, resignation, shock, and the overwhelming emotion of a little pink line.

I am from sleep deprivation, family hugs, stories by flashlight, and uncontrollable laughter ringing out in all directions.

I am from realizing my astonishing good fortune, taking nothing for granted, and finally understanding just why it is I'm here.

So tell me.  Where are you from?
 
Note: I came across this Meme by reading amazing entries by TwoBusy, ZenMom, and SFD.  I sat down and wrote this last night before I realized there was a template to guide me.  As a result, the finished product was something altogether different.  But I liked it, so decided to leave it as is.