Our Childhood Way Back When

I was a young child in the early 70’s and loved the freedom and innocence we enjoyed back then when we went outside to play.  Here are some of my childhood memories of yesteryear:

Our Childhood Way Back When

The streetlights were our curfew
As we went outside to play
Building dens and climbing trees
What a way to spend the day

Hopscotch and French skipping
Was always so much fun
And when it came to kiss chase
Boy how fast we’d run!

Knock down ginger was the best
Tap tap on that front door
Already turned and on our heals
As the owner starts to roar

Boys all playing football games
Come rain, sunshine, or snow
With muddy boots and dirty clothes
But such a healthy glow

Playing on the building sites
Gosh how bad were we
Out of sight and phoneless
The grownups didn’t see

Long bike rides were a must
No hands a daily thrill
No fear or trepidation
Riding down the steepest hill

Cat’s cradle and crazy jacks
As well as pick up sticks
All of these old-fashioned toys
Made for the perfect mix

A tennis ball in a pair of tights
Made for hours of fun
If you grew up as an only child
The perfect game for one

The hours we spent scrumping
And foraging with glee
More often than not in places
Where we really shouldn’t be

Hold on to these memories
A treat from yesteryear
As you think upon them now
I hope they fill your heart with cheer.

© Maxine Bailey