ESP: With five kids in such a wide range of ages, what has this current season of motherhood been teaching you the most?
Erin: It’s ok to say no. For years, it was a land of “Yes! We can do that! We can audition for this or be in this activity!” I am learning that it’s ok not to do everything under the sun and just focus on our family.
ESP: Your family is deeply involved in community theatre, including your most recent performance in Anne of Green Gables at the Gulf Shores Little Theatre. What has that experience meant for your family?
Erin: The kids have been involved in local theater for quite a while, I have always been the shuttle. Now that they are a little older, it was such a joy to share the experience of performing with them!
ESP: How do you balance a busy household full of extracurriculars like dance, band, sports, and tumbling while still staying connected as a family?
Erin: Honestly, it is really hard. But it all goes back to making choices and saying no every once in a while. It seems like we do everything but trust me, I say no quite often.
ESP: As a part-time team member with the City of Orange Beach Expect Excellence Program, how has working in your community influenced the way you parent?
Erin: Being an employee with Orange Beach has been such a gift for our family! When I first started, I homeschooled everyone and it was a wonderful enrichment opportunity for them. While I absolutely love homeschooling, the opportunities available at Gulf Shores City Schools are amazing. Attending Expect Excellence was what triggered the kids’ interest in attending school and I am so glad we made that choice!
ESP: What are some practical systems, routines, or habits that help keep your home running smoothly with such a full schedule?
Erin: I still use an old school planner with colored pens for each kid and their activities. I try to plan ahead as much as possible, though sometimes surprises come up! But if I don’t physically write things down, I do not remember it!
ESP: What is one thing you’ve learned about raising kids in different stages at the same time—from first grade to high school?
Erin: Change is the only thing that is constant. I used to think things had to be done certain ways but I quickly learned to be adaptable if I wanted to survive.
ESP: How do you intentionally create one-on-one time with each of your children?
Erin: I put it in that calendar! I plan different things with each child that they enjoy. Whether it be a bike ride to the state park, fishing at the pier, concerts at the wharf, a girls day or a trip to five below just because, I want them to know how special they are to me.
ESP: In a life that’s constantly on the go, what helps you personally stay grounded and refreshed?
Erin: I try to make some time for quiet, calm and Jesus. Sometimes it’s just sitting on my porch with my coffee and my Bible. Sometimes it’s walking my dog around Meyer Park while having quiet time in prayer. These little moments are so important!
ESP: What is one piece of advice you would give to a younger mom who feels overwhelmed by busy seasons?
Erin: Try not to be so hard on yourself! You’re doing better than you think, we all are! I’m not perfect but I love my children and they know it.
ESP: What legacy or values are you most passionate about passing down to your children through the life you’re living now?
Erin: I want them to never give up on anything and always strive to be better than they were yesterday. I want them to love Jesus and know He loves them. They are the reason God put me on this Earth!
Rapid Fire Questions:
- Rehearsal nights or game nights? Game Nights
- Backstage chaos or sideline cheering? Sideline Cheering
- Car karaoke or quiet car rides? Car Karaoke
- Dance recital or ball game? Both
- Last-minute costume fix or last-minute snack run? Snack Run
Erin Wheat and her husband, Hugh, have been together since their days as high school sweethearts and are approaching 25 years of marriage. They enjoy simple date nights at home—grilling out and riding bikes together.
The couple has five children—Charlie (16), Hayes (14), Alvin (12), Bitty (10), and Davy (6)—and loves that their kids are close in age, even if it means juggling a full calendar of activities. When she finds a moment for herself, Erin enjoys art, jewelry making, and singing.
