Quite a few years ago, the children, dogs and I moved into a cozy, white ranch house. The backyard had several beautiful, mature trees. First thing the kids wanted was a tire swing.
I moved us into that ranch house when I filed for divorce, when I was dismantling the children’s family unit. It should have been a disaster, but it wasn’t. Of course there were difficult moments, but the kids and I, our friends, and family had a wonderful time there. We celebrated birthdays, graduations, dragged Christmas trees home, got a puppy (our dog Grace), had bonfires, Ice Cream Sundae every Sunday—all and all, it was a joyful, happy home. Yes, we moved there as part of an ending. But it was also the start of a new beginning, a new adventure. I’ll always associate that home with the tire swing the children shimmied up the tree and gleefully installed just after we moved in.
Most people have a tire swing story from childhood. Many have installed one for their children, or grandchildren. Swings are a childhood staple. They elicit happy memories of lazy summer days, outdoor play, lighthearted fun, and innocent joy from Perfectly-imperfect childhoods. And that is why I think people of all ages have identified with “Childhood,” my whimsical tire swing on canvas.
“Childhood” was created with my beach finds; twisty driftwood branches, pale teal beach glass, copper wire, and a small, black rubber “tire.” It is soft, soothing, and a little bit whimsical. I’m planning to have it professionally scanned early next week, and should have a limited number of prints available soon.
When I created “Childhood,” I thought of the cozy white ranch house, my children. But it also reminded me of tire swings of my youth and had me looking forward (hopefully) to the grandchildren that might be part of my future.
Your story about the childhood tire swing brought back memories of my own tire swing adventures at my grandparents’ farm. We spent countless hours swinging, laughing, and feeling free. It’s amazing how a simple tire swing can create such lasting memories. If anyone is looking to create their own special moments, check out https://treeswingstore.com/. Thanks for sharing your beautiful story!
I would love to have one made of wood, copper, glass and black tire. It reminds me of the big oak tree at my grandparents farm that all us grandkids used for so many years. The tree is still standing and the chain is still there. Will you make another one. Exactly like the one on this post?
Really splendid. The swing gives a nostalgic feeling when I look at the picture. I was so hooked on the white tree swing of ours in our Arizona home that I really spend my afternoons there. It’s also great that https://treeswingstore.com/product/white-wood-disc-swing-combo/ is really made well and it will surely last a long time!
I think a tire swing is really practical! What’s good about it is that you can recycle old tires! But me personally, I got a white tree swing from https://treeswingstore.com/product/white-wood-disc-swing-combo/ and it was just too amazing for me and the kids. I was able to set it up easily based on articles like this and DIY topics!
Inspirational! Do u still live in the ranch house? Do u have a shop or studio open for public to purchase your art or only online?