We Only Get 18 Summers So Let’s Make Them Count

Can someone please explain how we’ve landed in May already?! I swear it was January five minutes ago. I had my shiny new planner out, my highlighters at the ready, and a list of goals that made me feel like an absolute boss. Fast forward four months and, well… let’s just say things haven’t exactly gone to plan.

Honestly? I’ve been feeling a bit disappointed in myself lately. I had BIG dreams for where I wanted to be by now—more progress, more wins, more boxes ticked off. But here’s the thing: life has been lifing HARD.

My grandma always said, “Don’t tell God your plans—He’ll just change them!” And wow, has she been proven right in 2025. Between unexpected family stuff, health hiccups, and just the usual chaos of life, I’ve had more reminders than I care to count that I am definitely not in charge here. Life loves keeping us on our toes, doesn’t it?

But as frustrating as it’s been, I’ve also realised that’s kind of what makes life interesting. The ups, the downs, the curveballs you never see coming… they all shape the journey. And honestly, if everything went 100% smoothly all the time, we’d probably be bored stiff. (At least, that’s what I tell myself when I’m tempted to scream into a pillow.)

The good news? We’ve still got 8 whole months left of 2025. EIGHT months to reset, refocus, and make some magic happen. I am refusing to write off this year just because the start’s been a bit bumpy.

And let’s not forget… SUMMER is creeping up (hallelujah for that)!

I’ve been thinking a lot lately about how many summers we actually get with our kids. On average? 18. That’s it. If we’re lucky. I’ve already been blessed with 10 incredible ones with Ava—but that also means my summers with her are disappearing way faster than I’m ready for.

My mum always said, “You’ve got to make the summer holidays amazing so that your kids still want to go away with you when they’re older.” Great advice, but wow, is that getting pricier every year. I know Ava will still want to spend time with us as she grows up (fingers crossed!)—but those magical childhood summers are precious, and I can feel time speeding up.

And here’s me, looking at my summer plans, realising they’re getting closer fast… and that “head start” I thought I’d have? Yeah, that didn’t quite happen.

BUT. We’re not giving up. I’ve got chilled-out family trips pencilled in, a few cheeky weekends away, and—most importantly—lots of 1:1 time with Ava that I am so, SO excited about. Because in the end, those are the moments that stick. Sunshine, belly laughs, ice creams melting down our hands… this is what we live for, right?

And while I’m soaking all that up, my online business is still ticking away in the background. I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again: making money online WORKS. I’ve proven it to myself time and time again. But this summer? I’m stepping it up a notch. No more dipping my toe in the water—I’m diving in headfirst.

If you’ve been following my journey, you’ll know it’s not all smooth sailing. But it IS possible. Whether it’s affiliate marketing, selling through TikTok Shop, or sharing deals in emails—there are so many ways to get started (and let’s be honest, I’ve tried most of them by now!).

So if you’re sitting there thinking, “I’d love to make some extra cash but I’ve no clue where to start,” don’t stress. I’ve got your back. Grab my free guide HERE for some of the easiest ways to get going, or if you want something more personal, book a 1:1 call with me HERE and we’ll build a plan just for you. 

Here’s to making money, making memories, and making this summer one to remember. 

Click HERE to read How You Can Make The Most Out Of Your Summer 

11 thoughts on “We Only Get 18 Summers So Let’s Make Them Count

  1. This hit me right in the heart—and also in the planner I haven’t opened since February. 😅 Life really has been lifing lately. But your post is such a powerful reminder: it’s not about having it all mapped out—it’s about how we care for ourselves while we navigate the messy middle. Here’s to slowing down, showing up, and making space for joy, movement, and a little grace along the way. 💛

    1. Yes! I’m fighting for freedom so I can enjoy as much as possible. It’s not about the big stuff but the everyday wonderfulness of life. x

  2. The most important part of everything you described is your life and love for Ava. Of course, everyone in your life is more than important, but she needs you to be up for every new adventure, to hug and love her and share jokes together. The moment at hand is all that matters.

    1. 100% agree. I am very lucky to have someone to share this amazing life with. She’ll remember the adventures and the memories, it’s what matters. I would just like to make a passive income so I have more freedom to do it all with her. Ideally show her the world, or as much as I can.

  3. Sarah, when I read your title I must admit I had to scratch my head and wonder what your up to, but your so right about life moving faster and faster. Sorry to hear about your trials, but glad to hear you say your all in! Here’s to 8 productive months for 2025!

  4. Hey Sarah,
    Such a great reminder. I’ve felt that same time-warp with my own kids, one minute they’re tiny, the next they’re asking for their own phones, and then theiroff to college like mine are! Life has definitely thrown its share of surprises my way too, and it’s easy to feel like the plans we made at the start of the year are slipping through the cracks. But thinking about how few summers we really get with our kids puts everything into perspective. I’m all about finding that balance, making sweet memories with my boys while building something solid for our future. Love how you’re doing both!
    Meredith
    Meredith recently posted…Affiliate Marketing Strategies for beginners in 2025My Profile

  5. Hi Sarah – I can’t believe how quickly this year is passing. Time really does fly! There is so much that I have to do and so much that I want to do and sometimes I don’t know where to start. But, deep down, I know it all starts in my head and in my heart. Making the most of every season is so very important. Now that all of my children are out of the home and are making their own lives, it fills my heart to know that I was a part of each of their initial experiences. I am very fortunate that I get a redo as I spend time with my grandchildren. Enjoy every moment and then relive every moment in your mind and in your heart! This was such an excellent post and thank you for reminding us that time is so important.

  6. Sarah, I really felt this—2025 hasn’t gone to plan for me either. I started the year full of energy, ready to grow my affiliate business while balancing family life and health goals, but life definitely had other ideas. I’ve also got kids, and your reminder about the 18 summers hit home—mine are growing up fast too. I’m now shifting focus to being more present this summer while letting my online business work quietly in the background. Thanks for the honest reminder that we can still turn things around and make the rest of the year count.

    1. I know! My daughter is getting taller and taller, and sometimes I’m sure she’s grown a foot overnight. Time isn’t waiting for anyone so affiliate marketing working in the background is the perfect solution. We can set up systems that work in the background while having fun with the children. Have a fab Summer- you won’t regret it.

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