Erin Elizabeth
Erin Elizabeth is a former elementary teacher-turned-social media content creator. “I share all things fashion, food, faith and motherhood on my Instagram @wink_and_a_twirl. My main focus is to help women feel confident in who they are in all aspects of their lives.”
Mom to: Van Douglas, 6 months
Hometown: Scottsdale has been my home for the last 18 years. Prior to that I grew up in Crete, Illinois, until I was 16. I definitely prefer the desert vibes!
Favorite ways to spend family time in AZ: When the weather is nice we love to spend time outdoors by going on walks or grabbing a bite to eat on a cute patio. We love to travel up north to beat the heat. Our favorite little family getaway is to Prescott, Arizona.
Your most rewarding motherhood moment: The day that Van was born and I was able to hold him for the first time. After five-plus years of recurrent miscarriage, many rounds of IVF to our journey into a gestational carrier, I longed for the moment to be an earthly mother and hold Van. Every single day of heartbreak was worth the first millisecond of holding Van for the first time. It was the most humbling and gracious moment I’ve ever experienced. I was in love instantly.
Biggest challenge as a mom: To give myself grace when I cannot do it all. And who can? We aren’t meant to do it all. As long as our children are cared for and loved we are doing it right. Give yourself grace on the hard days and through the challenging moments. You are a hero in the eyes of your kids – let yourself believe it!
A mother who inspires you and why: All mothers. When I sat here and tried to come up with one, I could only think of “the many.” Mothers who have conceived naturally. Mothers who have gone through infertility. Mothers who have experienced loss. Mothers who have been through IVF, surrogacy and/or adoption. We are all incredible. And while all our journeys to motherhood can be different, we are all the same. I am in awe of all the mothers out there. Each and every one of you inspires me.
Best piece of advice for a new mom: Soak it all in. Life truly flies by. We have waited over five years to be parents and in the blink of an eye, Van is already 6-months-old. It’s hurting my mama heart just a bit! We are trying to be as intentional as we can to soak up all of our moments and memories in such a fast-paced life.
Your biggest hope for your children: My biggest hope for Van is for him to love and to love deeply. To love life and be passionate about how he wants to live it. To love the people around him and show kindness, compassion, faith and grace.
How are you celebrating Mother’s Day? I will be celebrating Mother’s Day with Brad and Van. I see us going to church, out to brunch and then a relaxing day at home.