The Swing Team: Memories Through the Years

This swing, now over 36 years old, stands as a cherished part of the Lim family’s heritage. Over the decades, it has witnessed generations grow - from infants gently rocked in their parents’ arms to those same children returning as proud parents themselves.

The swing has weathered time and seasons, lovingly maintained through countless rounds of repainting to ensure its strength and safety. For most of the year, the grand old patriarch would often be found seated here, quietly reflecting on the passing of days, weeks, months, and years - the rhythms of a well-lived life.

Come Chinese New Year, this humble swing becomes a gathering spot once more - a symbol of continuity and reunion, where the “swing team” members meet again, sharing laughter and memories. As we look back with nostalgia, we marvel at how far we’ve all come since the 1980s, and how this simple swing continues to hold the stories of our family’s journey.

Here’s how some of the original Swing Team members looked in 2014.

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This is reckoned to be the oldest swing team, photo probably taken in 1981!

Swing Team 1984.

The expanded original swing team.

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This photo perfectly captures the age gap among the swing team members - a charming reminder of how time has shaped each of us. In it, young Paul is seen carrying his little cousin, Wan Yi, a tender moment that reflects the close bond and affection shared across generations.

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My grandson, Nathan joined the swing team in 2012.

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Latest swing team : younger 3rd generation + 4th generation.

Clockwise: Yang Yang (in red), Wei Yi (red), Wan Yi (blue), Ziyan, Aaron, Alyssa, Ryan (green) and middle Tze Yi (white)