Friend, Where are You From?

I am from an green antique writing desk, from yellow counter tops and black and white checkered bathroom tile.

I am from the white house with black shutters and the big porch that smells of Thanksgiving dinners - turkey, stuffing and all the trimmings. I am from the lilac bush in the corner of the front yard. The Japanese red maple tree whose long limbs I have never been allowed to climb and explore.

I am from Christmas cookies baked and stored in pillow cases and potato chip cans and celebrations with an abundance of food and laughter, from a hardworking father, a dedicated mother, sisters by birth and friends by choice.

I am from Saturdays full of morning chores, Friday nights full of pizza and Sundays full of worship and napping.

I am from "If you have nothing nice to say, don't say anything at all" and "You make a better door than a window" and "Hang on Slopey, Slopey Hang On".

I am from doughies with King syrup and crabs with Old Bay.

I am from Baltimore, England, Germany, Ireland and Hungary. I am from 57 varieties, like Heinz ketchup, from macaroni salad and walnut cake.

I am from a boy who gets a duck for Christmas to have for dinner on New Years' and telling stories that make others wonder what is true and was it for pure entertainment, from corny jokes and tickle fights, from family portraits hung over the fireplace mantel.  

I am from Catholic traditions turned Baptist conversions turned relationships with a Savior. From a small Christian school by the bay and a 2nd grade classroom by the highway.

I am from single motherhood and bedtime prayers for a daddy and a family, from an outside wedding in bare feet and a new home 1300 miles away from all I have ever known.

I am from a brown and orange home, from following the voice of the Father back to a white house with black shutters and a big porch.

I am from the promise of restoration and redemption and peace. I am from a heavenly Father and a heavenly home for a purpose that has yet to be fulfilled.

**Post inspired by this talented gal and this amazing writer.

Starting is the Hardest Part

Today, I was inspired by a wise and wonderful woman to start writing my story. Today, I was reminded by a gentle and affirming gentleman that I have an important story to tell. Today, I was encouraged by a trusted new friend that I do not have to be afraid of my story. Today, I choose to believe my faithful, loving Father and write my story, knowing I have a purpose and a legacy to leave, that I have purpose and a life to live.

Today, I will begin.