Cyndi Bates

    I was born in a big white hospital. My mother was born in America, and so was my

 father. Both of my grandparents were born on American soil. I wore disposable

 diapers until I was toilet trained. I learned to speak English from my parents. My dad

 grew up in a home owned by his parents. His family had several different cars

 throughout his life. My grandparents paid taxes on the money my grandpa made.

 

   My mother grew up in a house her parents owned. She rode her bike on the street

 in front of the house when she was little. My parents took me camping with my older

 sister. My dad was in the Army. My parents paid taxes to the government.  My mom

 stayed at home and kept house.  My parents bought a house. I went to school up the

 hill from my house. My mom taught me to read and write my name. I made forts in my

 back yard. I got a hammer and nails for my birthday. I played G.I. Joes with the

 boy next door. I wore baseball caps. On Sundays I went to church with my family.

 That was the day I wore a dress. I went to high-school near down town. I saw kids

 fight. I got a job. I paid taxes. I moved away from my mom and dad. I rented a home

 with my sister. Then I got married. Now I live in the city. My husband and I live in a

 tiny apartment. We will buy a house. I wear jeans to work. We pay taxes. We speak

 English.

 

I am an American! 

 This is my culture.