The Making of a Swingset

What a complete surprise! My sweet, late Grandma Cody was generous with what she left behind on this earth. My parents wanted to pass along a bit of the blessing. This was all unbeknownst to me as the Boys and I stared longingly up at the amazing fort/swing set in Costco with my parents near-by sporting cheesy grins. "Do you all like this swing set?" my Mom asked. "We only covet it every single time we visit Costco!" I answered. "It's YOURS!" my parents announced in unison. What?! We were amazed!

We picked it up the very next night, and right away Dad and Jeremy set to work. And what work it was! There were 36 complex steps, over 1000 screws, and seemingly endless lumber. The instructional DVD (It was way too complicated for a mere instruction booklet.) said to allow 12-16 hours for assembly. By the end of it all, I think it took at least twice that time!

After the first 6 steps were completed, the Boys could enjoy a shady picnic. We all could not wait to be able to play in it!

My Dad and Jeremy worked so diligently to get it done. Thank you both for investing so much of your time and energy!

O decided he was big enough to help out with the power tools. I think not...

Keeping cool and shady up in the fort.

The Boys are already enjoying it so much! This was around step 12.

The very first sliders. I am so thankful the slide is wide enough to fit Mommy's larger bum. It is a fun, fast, bumpy slide. We all make use of it!


ALL DONE!!
Isn't it wonderful? We have been outside every day enjoying it. The sandbox is completely shaded and stays fairly cool. We have draped a hose on the slide to make it a water slide. We really still can't believe it's ours. Every time we pull in to our driveway, both Boys still squeal with delight when it comes into view.


Gramps and Yaya, we are so thankful for our huge gift! Now we can never, ever move. How could we ever leave something so wonderful behind? THANK YOU!