Staying up too late to read,
sneaking books and candy into class,
the sound of golden laughter ringing
with innocence and pure happiness.
I miss that.
Shopping for christmas dresses,
ending up with smiles and excitement  
more often than with dresses,
because the one had to be perfect.
I miss that.
Climbing trees and getting reprimanded,
laughing and doing it again the next day
because it was exhilarating and fun and awesome,
no matter what the teachers said.
I miss that.
Going on skiing trips,
grinning with excitement,
armed with confidence, hot chocolate,
and marshmallows, of course.
I miss that.
Sitting in a window seat,
writing poems at three AM
because the stars were inspiring and comforting
and felt like home.
I miss that
Road trips blasting music,
stopping at gas stations in the middle of nowhere
to buy gummy bears and chocolate,
riding with the windows open.
I miss that.
Taking naps in the grass,
the sun shining, and waking up warm and happy,
making flower crowns to procrastinate
going back inside again.
I miss that.
Ordering chai lattes
at cute caffés because they were delicious,
albeit overpriced, sitting by the windows
and smiling at strangers through the foggy glass.
I miss that.
Exploring cities, stores, and museums,
just kids curious about the world,
ducking into shops and a tea place,
discovering that bubble tea is amazing.
I miss that.
Smiling and laughing and loving,
none of it fake of forced,
just genuine happiness overflowing,
adding to the beauties of the world.
I miss that.
I miss being happy.