Our winter sport enthusiasts.

So, those I talk to frequently and not even very frequently, know how my heart breaks a little each day as I realize we cannot afford organized extra-curricular activities for the kids (i.e. dance, gymnastics, soccer, school [haha but seriously], etc.). In lieu of spending money and making new friends, I boisterously celebrate free "first times" for everything. Thanks to winter storm Nemo (these east coasters ain't seen nothing), both our kids enjoyed their first time sledding...and in Central Park no less. Lots of dreams came true for us that day. It was an absolutely PERFECT day in the park. The laughter, the sunshine, the crowds...yes, it was fun seeing adults acting silly in the snow even if they were in my way. 

These kids may be friends yet

Tori is a timid gal, rarely enjoys new adventures, but she took on the big hill at her own request,  and didn't stop laughing the whole time we were at the park. So many happy break throughs have occurred in Central Park...it will always have our hearts.

Gals taking on the masses.

This boy on the other hand loves anything new and couldn't wait to get his gloves in the snow.

Keeping with the winter sports theme, I've had the dream of taking Tori ice skating at Rockefeller...BUT didn't want to spend the money to have her scream and cry through our hour on the rink. Through this "club" we are with, they provided a free trip to Lasker Ice Skating Rink on the very northern part of Central Park, admission and rentals for freeeeeee. So a good chance to test the waters. It was the worst day possible to go as I was sick and it was easily the COLDEST day I've experienced in New York and possibly my life. And Tori put on her epic melt down shoes for the trip there so we were all pretty frustrated by the time we got there, but I'm not one to pass up anything free.

Turned out to be SO worth it!! Tori adored it and my heart may have burst and regenerated a couple times (hearts do that) at the sight of my girl trying new things.

And this sums up the trip back. We have fun!

If I am going to be poor anywhere, I'm so glad it is in New York. I try to remind myself that there's plenty of time for Tori to do extra-curricular activities, but not as much time to be in New York where she definitely gets unique experiences.