Defining Me

Born—A couple days too early but healthy. Constantly moving around Paterson— Mom and Dad always arguing— can’t bear it. New brother, I don’t like him— Pushed the baby off the crib New sister— no longer daddy’s princess Learning to dance at Dance World Academy— I loved it. Vacation without parents—almost drowned in the pool; my cousin saved me. Vacation with favorite cousins—dancing in the rain; surprise birthday party; new friends New school—class with my cousin; my best friend The next year a new school and a new town— feeling a bit more secure Bigger home—own room, afraid to sleep alone for a while, adjusted. Graduated middle school with honors— accepted into P.C.T.I New school, but with my cousin again—Plenty of new friends Working with children for three years— Rough start freshman year, but straight A’s the next two years. Beginning senior year— still dancing, new responsibilities Looking forward to the future—college