Heidi Jones

where I’m from

I’m from marching in the Frank Lloyd Wright Days parade

from the sound of Big Wheels

slapping the gravel, cracking plastic

I am from fragrant lilacs that permeate

Breathing in

on the tree swing that slides

←B A C K

And

F O R T H→

I am from blue-collars and car lovers

Auto technicians, grocery store clerks

T Y P E – S E T T E R S

Farmers →tractor seat makers →cheese makers,

Chucking 20 pound blocks every three seconds

Mozzarella for frozen pizzas, no thank you

I am from “please grab my pocketbook from the davenport, dear.

I’m going to be late for my permanent”

and

“Just because it’s prom night doesn’t mean it has to be PROM NIGHT”

I am from Artie and Clara, Merl and Diane,

from parents who wanted more for me;

and Here I go