I was standing out on the back deck one evening when I looked at the swing set. I noticed for the first time in forever, there was grass growing under the swings. Those patches of dirt that I disliked so much were gone there was neatly trimmed grass growing there instead. I congratulated myself on finally cultivating the missing green in those spots. But then, almost before I was finished patting myself on the back, I realized what that actually meant. That's when I wrote this song. If you're an empty-nester parent or grandparent whose grandchildren are far away, then this song will have a poignant meaning for you. If you are not in that situation, and your grass just doesn't have a chance to grow under your swings, consider yourself lucky!
Lyrics
When The Grass Grows Under the Swings © 2025 by Craig Mecham
There was a patch of dirt beneath the swings
Where grass refused to grow
Tiny feet would kick and laugh and fly
In the days so long ago
I used to fuss and curse that spot
Where green just wouldn’t stay
Never knowing I would miss that dirt
When time had slipped away
[First Chorus]
Oh, give me back those bare worn places
Where little feet would play
Where giggles rang and hearts were light
Through every summer day
Now the grass grows thick and perfect there
No tiny feet to bring it wear
I’d trade this green for one more chance
To see them swinging there
The yard stands still in evening light
The swings sway in the breeze
No shouts of “Daddy, look at me!”
Just silent whispering trees
My children grown, they live their lives
Their babies far from here
And I stand watching flawless grass
And wish that they were near
[First Chorus]
Bridge
No thin grass left,
No laughter bright,
Just quiet green
In evening light.
I’d trade it all
For worn-down ground,
Where giggles live
And hearts still pound.
[Final Chorus]
So give me back those bare worn places
Where little feet would play
Where giggles rang and hearts were light
Through every summer day
Let the grass grow thin from happy feet
Where tiny dreams took wing
Perhaps one day new hearts will come
To dance beneath this swing