People keep saying, “Why not wait until Ava’s older to take her to New York? She won’t even remember it!” But here’s the thing: her childhood is also our parenthood. And while Ava might not recall every last twinkle light on the Rockefeller tree, I will—along with every Starbucks stop and taxi ride we share in the freezing New York air. These memories? They’ll be priceless for us. Plus, this trip is partially funded thanks to my little online side hustle, which deserves a celebration of its own (high-five to myself!).
Check out how I’m making that online cash here!
Why Now? Because Childhood (and Parenthood) Are Gone in a Flash!
If there’s one thing I’ve learned, it’s that this “parenthood” gig flies by. Yesterday, Ava was asking me if I believed in fairies, jumping in muddy puddles in the backyard, and now, we’re hitting the stage where eye rolls are starting to make an appearance. So yeah, we’re doing this trip now. I can practically hear future-me whispering, “Take her now before she’s too cool to be seen with you!”
And to anyone who says, “She’s too young to remember New York,” let me tell you—this trip is just as much for us as it is for her. It’s about holding onto that sense of wonder for just a little while longer, capturing those big, cheesy smiles and cozying up with hot chocolate in chilly Central Park. Whether she remembers or not, the memories we make will be unforgettable.
Making It Happen, One Side Hustle at a Time
Here’s the real secret behind making this trip a reality: the online hustle. I started learning about affiliate marketing, and let’s just say it’s changed everything. Without it, this trip might still be just a dream. But here we are—staring down a holiday in New York, knowing it’s possible to build an income that fits around life and, let’s be real, funds a few dreams too. And honestly? This is just the beginning. Next year? Who knows where we’ll be headed! Learning the ropes with affiliate marketing has been the “aha” moment of the year for me.
Curious how I got started? I’ve got all the details here for you!
I remember reading *The Iceberg Effect* one afternoon while on the road to a family wedding. That book really opened my eyes to the world of online business, and I knew I needed to dig deeper. My search led me to Dean Holland, a mentor who just felt like the right fit. His calm, honest approach resonated with me, and he promised support, which was exactly what I needed. Fast forward a year, and I not only have guidance from Dean but also a community of like-minded people who’ve become friends for life.
If this seems something that would work for you too, please dont think twice about getting in touch. I’d love to hear from you. You can also follow my journey on TikTok by clicking the link HERE
Here’s to Holiday Magic and Unforgettable Moments
So here’s to the lights, the hot chocolate, the endless photo ops, and the snowflakes that may or may not fall (fingers crossed!). Here’s to Ava skipping through New York, even if she won’t recall every second. And here’s to us, capturing every laugh, every shared moment, every tiny piece of magic we can carry home.
Because even if she doesn’t remember it all—I know I will.
You are wise to go now instead of an unknown future! Your daughter will always remember! She will remember the magic and energy of the Big City which is New York. She will remember the happiness and love from her parents, as you all walk miles and see the sights! The joy created on this trip can be recreated time and time again, by simply remembering!
Keep us posted!!
The future is certainly unknown. I want her to remember the happiness and love we try to give.
Sarah,
Excited for you. We took my son Thomas to Europe when he was 7. He still remembers it. It will be atraesured memory for you and your daughter. NIce interview with Dean BTW. You are reak and genuine.
Thank you. I’ve still not watched it back. Maybe one day I will….. lol
All of our memories can fade over time and everyone remembers things differently. But she will always how she felt though- the awe and wonder. And NYC is totally about the grown ups too!!
Thanks Karen. I may have to pop back without her one day! lol
Hi Sarah,
I agree with you 100%! Take the trip now while your daughter is young enough to be excited and amazed by everything she will see and do over there. As you say – she nay not remember the trip, but you will.
I’m at the other end of the parenthood adventure – my eldest son is 31, my youngest son is 22. I also have two daughters – 28 and 25 – and two grandchildren (with another granddaughter due to arrive next month), and I can categorically state that the childhood years go fast. Taking the time for cool trips like yours is a great way to make the most of that time.
I hope you all enjoy your time in NYC.
Sean Street
Thank you Sean. Time is going incredibly quickly, I look back at photos thinking that they were 2 years ago and realise they were 5 years ago! I’m jumping on the plane and getting memories made!
Sarah – For those that ask, “why now?” I can think of so many more important answers to “why not now?” This NYC trip is not just about the trip in itself, but the anticipation and the memories that it creates for you all as a family. Your daughter will talk about this trip forever. She may or may not remember everything that happened in this trip, but she will remember the trip. And most importantly, she will remember the love and care that you and your husband took to make sure that she had a fairy tale holiday. So why now? I say it’s because we have today – that’s Why. I say, because why not now – that’s Why. I say, because there is a little girl who will be delighted and enchanted because what her parents have done for her – that’s Why. I say, because she has a mom that cares enough to provide this for her child – that’s Why. Those, and many other reasons are “why now.” Have a wonderful day, my friend!
Thank you Ernie. It’s lovely to read a comment that you agree with. I have found that some people do not agree with me taking the trip and it’s blown my mind! I want her to remember the love she felt and how we did everything to give her everything we could. Have a lovely day!
Hi Sarah,
This is such a beautiful post! I love the way you’re honoring the present with Ava and capturing these special memories for you as well as her. The truth is, memories are often more about how we felt in those moments than the specific details. I couldn’t agree more with your perspective on parenting, it really is gone in a flash. Ava might not remember every part of this trip, but the love and joy you’re pouring into it will leave an imprint that stays with her for life!
I have to say, the way you’ve tied this experience to your side hustle is inspiring! There’s something truly empowering about being able to turn dreams into reality and create memories because of the work you’ve put in. Thank you for sharing a glimpse of your journey, it’s motivating and so heartwarming! I can’t wait to see pictures from your trip!!
Meredith
Meredith Moore recently posted…Persistence Pays Off: How I Fixed My Form on My Website
Thank you Meredith. That’s a really kind comment, and much appreciated. There will be so many photos, you’ll be asking me to stop! lol