A New Tree House

Three years ago Justin and I got to work creating a fun outdoor play space for Reece. It has been a wonderful space for Reece and his friends to play in, and a great spot for us to gather as a family for outdoor fun right in the backyard.

This spring, I suggested that we take the teepee down. I am not sure why, but I just felt like it was time for a change. I threw a few ideas out to Justin about what we could do, and a "tree house" was the one we agreed on. The biggest obstacle, the cost. New wood is expensive and we didn't have enough reclaimed wood laying around to build what we envisioned. We kept talking about, trying to figure out how to do it as cheaply as possible, when Justin's dad called letting us know a friend was taking down a wooden fence and did we want the wood. Hmmm...we didn't have to think long about that one, we said yes. We really had no idea what the wood would be like, and if it would even be possible to use it for the tree house, but once it was dropped off in our driveaway it became very clear the tree house was going to get built, very soon.

My dad stopped by one morning, soon after, to help Justin build the platform, and get it standing. Then over the next few weeks Justin slowly built the structure, added the railing, and finally we decorated. We all love it! Reece and his friends have enjoyed snacks and lunch up there, there has been lots of creative play, and I have even been invited up for a cup of tea.

And did you notice the raised bed? I found yet another spot to grow more food. Reece has decided he would like blackberries to grow there, and I think that is a wonderful idea.

We are really happy to have completed another project around here with reclaimed materials. The only purchases we made were the paint and some screws. Everything else...the wood, the table and chairs, the curtains, and even the slide have been rescued from around the house.

Here's to another successful, reclaimed, handmade project.