Where are you from originally and how long have you lived in Kingwood? 
I am from El Paso and I have lived in Kingwood for about five years.
Child(ren) and Age(s)?
I have two beautiful boys, John IV (age 5 going on 13) and Archie (age 2)
One thing people would be surprised to know about you…
Hmmm, I played soccer since I was 5 and up until my senior year at St. Edward’s University in Austin, TX. Also, my uncle was a writer for Saturday Night Live, he is Jack Handey, among other sketches he did “Deep Thoughts by Jack Handey” and “Toonces the Driving Cat”. Lol!
What is your go-to activity for yourself for pampering or for fun?
I love yoga, pedicures and sippin’ on some wine with my girls!
Funniest shortcut/routine for helping you through parenthood?
Oh man, let’s see, parenting is one of the most rewarding/realest/craziest/most beautiful things I’ve embarked on. It has taught me so much and I am truly thankful that I have been given this opportunity to be a Mom. But it gets tough man and shortcuts are key!
I pick my battles, make everything a game (when I have the energy) and do lots of positive reinforcement!
Are you involved in a business venture, a local organization, a creative endeavor, or in the
corporate world? Please share!
I own a small art-teaching company called The Funky Crayon, we do art parties and art workshops for all ages! I am truly in love with what I do. Art does so much for me, it relaxes me, it makes me think, and I love seeing what it can do for others. I taught art around various school districts in Houston for nine years, my last job was at Kingwood HS. I enjoyed teaching with different school districts but there is something so empowering about being your own boss, I’m having a blast!
How has this community been instrumental in getting you to where you are now?
I have met so many wonderful people in this community, people that are so selfless and caring. And I feel like I have only scratched the surface. So many people have been supportive in various ways, sharing a photo on social media or just spreading the word about what I offer, it’s all greatly appreciated!
What is the best advice for juggling mommyhood and running a business (or volunteering,
working, etc)? I’m still trying to figure that out myself but if I had to give advice I would say to take it day by day and when you feel overwhelmed that means it’s time to take some time for yourself, go for a run, have a girls night, etc. It’s so important to show yourself some love. Oh, and also, don’t take anything personal, not everyone is going to love what you do but that doesn’t matter. You’re achieving something you’ve wanted to achieve and that’s beautiful. Keep on going and enjoy yourself!
What would you tell the old “You” before you had kids?
Enjoy your spare time! Lol.What is your proudest mommy moment?
It’s so hard to choose just one, I am proud of my boys so much, especially when they accomplish something they have been working toward or when they show kindness.
I remember when my oldest son conquered the swimming thing, I was a nervous wreck but his face lit up and he was so proud of himself. It was one of those amazing moments that makes parenting the best thing I’ve ever done (I’m tearing up right now, eeek).
Greatest gift about being a mom?
The unconditional love and the constant learning on both ends, I’ve learned the most I’ve ever learned about myself and about life since I became a mother. And watching my boys learn is one of the coolest things ever, it’s so fun to take them to new places or introduce a new concept to them. They sometimes have the best insights and thoughts that help me to understand things better.
Best mom hack that makes mommin’ easier?
If you have more than one child, you probably know about the fighting. I started a “warm fuzzy jar” and my boys love it!! When they start fighting I just say “warm fuzzies” and they stop (not all the time, but most of the time). Basically, it’s a mason jar and when they do something nice for their brother I put one of those fuzzy pom poms in the jar. When they fill the jar up I plan on taking them somewhere super cool! It’s taking a while to get filled, haha. I can also take “warm fuzzies” out of the jar, they do not like that.
What’s your favorite part about what you do?
I love to be creative and I love to teach. So, coming up with new ways to teach people to be creative is so fun to me and doing it the way that I want to is even cooler. It’s so invigorating and amazing when I’ve made someone happy through art or through teaching.
Check out Erin’s Awesome Summer Camp Options on the Summer Camp Guide.
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