The Ribbon in My Journal – Phyllis Hoffman DePiano

A View from Our Porch Swing

Every morning, Neal and I sit outside watching the world come to life after a long night’s rest. I enjoy having my morning coffee outside, and one of the things I love most is sitting in our porch swing while sipping my coffee. We have always enjoyed having a swing, and we can solve all the world’s problems from it.

We’ve noticed that anytime a friend or family comes to visit, they always head for the swing on the porch. Kids love it, and adults love it even more! There is nothing more refreshing than swinging with the wind blowing through your hair.

Our patio furniture is by Woodard, and I rejoiced when I saw the swing in their collection. I love the overstuff cushions that just cradle us when we swing. It has an outdoor fabric, making it even better! 

What is it about a swing that draws us? As kids, we had rope swings with a wooden board for the bottom, tire swings, and then we graduated to the swing set—complete with a slide. Today these sets are very elaborate, but ours 

was simple. We played for hours on those swing sets.

The school swings were big, and they had a leather strap for the bottom. We would take turns pushing each other until we almost flew out of the swing. But it was so much fun to see who could go the highest!

My grandchildren also love to swing. They run to the swings first when we go to the playground—the higher the better. I feel sorry for the little ones on the playground who just aren’t big enough and have to watch the older 

kids go up so high. Their baby swings just don’t quite get it. 

My porch swing represents rest and relaxation to me. Do we really take time to relax like we should? Many of us think we relax, but our minds race back to the things that are on our list to handle or solve. I am challenging myself to learn to relax and contemplate all the blessings I have.  When you think of those precious to you and spend time recalling fun times together, it makes you relax.

Do you need a swing at your house? Maybe so—they sure are fun. Share your memories of swinging with me!

 

Where’s your favorite place to relax in your home?