Big White House. Empty Lots. the Alley. Stories About Home.

by Bella Myers

Empty Lots (Age 7) 

Dear Empty Lots, 

Me, my brother, and our family friends at the park next to my big white house.

Even though you’ve moved on to be a tall fancy apartment complex, I will remember your everlasting presence in my memories. I understand that you had no choice in the decision to house hundreds of people but thank you for being the home of many playful days and nights. Thank you for the soft grassy fields that allowed us to take off our shoes and run free. Kickball and tag will never be the same. The many picnics with the generic red and white plaid sheet filled our open evenings with jokes and yummy food. I promise to honor you by remembering the many memories that my childhood holds. Thank you Empty Lots.

The Alley (Age 12)

Long dusty roads

We covered our mouths when a car rolled by

Careful not to inhale the remnants 

Big blackberry bushes 

Summertime is prime time for the juicy fruits 

The cuts and scratches were worth every bite

Gossip and stories

Our middle school days revolved around the backstabbing 

But the turnabout was always led in a positive direction

The alleys were a shortcut to our next destination 

Shielding us from outside elements that could hinder our peaceful walk