Where I'm From

WHERE I'M FROM

I am from the rocky banks of the ol’ Buffalo Creek from daddy’s famous vegetable dumplins’ and mommas fried green tomatoes.

I am from the very last house that sits on the left on Dancer Avenue filled with lots of love and animals who think their people.

I am from the rhododendrons, roses of Sharon, and pine trees that surround my whole yard.

I am from late nights at the Mannington Fair selling cotton candy and candy apples and crazy Italian women who talk with their hands.

From “Don’t make a face, it will get stuck that way” and “Where’s the other half of your pants? Ya waitin on a flood?”

I am from a loving Christian family who all attend the First Baptist Church in Mannington, where my momma plays the Organ. I am from a family whose blessing for meals always began with “Father, it is thankful we are”. Thanks grandaddy.

I'm from Mannington, West Virginia where we eat sugar on our mashed potatoes and take pride in our gardens.

From the family of the famous “Gabby” Wilson, who went to the moose for hours and left on his little blue moped with the rubber chicken tied to the front. Rest in Peace Grandaddy Long Legs. I miss you more than words can say.

I am from a family who keeps every voicemail you ever leave just to play at the next family dinner to make fun of you, a family of 5 boys who taught me how to spit, play pool, and climb trees, a family who calls me "Crash" thanks to my great driving record, a family who has supported me in every pageant I have ever done, and most importantly, molded me into the woman I am today.

I am from a family who is sweet like fudge and crazy with just a few nuts.