The author reflects on a recent trip to New York City with her husband, revisiting memories from their six-year life in the city before having children. While initially hesitant to leave their two young daughters for eight days, she agreed to the trip, supported by her mother-in-law’s availability to care for the kids. As they wandered familiar places like Washington Square Park and the High Line, they reminisced about their carefree days as young adults. The couple observed the bustling city life, including a mural and a street performer, which sparked memories of becoming parents during the pandemic in 2020. The trip served as a poignant reminder of their past selves while highlighting the stark contrast to their current life focused on their daughters.
