A Swing on the Bells

I strolled over to the neighborhood park pavilion, drawn by a festive ribbon garland strung between two cedar posts. Each colorful braided strand was tied with tiny, stamped brass bells shaped like miniature elephants. The lowest hemp loop dipped just above the wide timber bench. Stepping onto the smooth wood, I sprang upward and grasped the thick cord firmly with both hands. Holding my center with neat, pointed toes, I let my weight carry into a smooth, rhythmic swing. At the peak of each gentle arc, the brass elephants brushed together, ringing out bright, hollow chimes that echoed sweetly across the quiet pavilion.