erikataylor
Erika is a professor of Chemistry and Environmental Studies and mom to two kids (2010 and 2013) plus two cats (2005 and 2019). A Midwestern transplant who has lived in 32 places, she has happily called Fairfield her home for the past 12 years. At work, she directs a program to support first-generation and underrepresented student success in science. In town, she can often be found driving her kids back and forth to their respective sporting events and teams or sitting in a coffee shop using the wifi to get a little work done before pick up. Erika loves spending time enjoying the water, cooking, theater, reading, and hanging out with her husband.
I Am Now Parenting a Tween
Parenting a tween is somewhat like a series of heartbreaks. Your sweet little child changes a thousand little things and starts the transition into a teen.
While I knew this day was coming, I had...
On Turning 45
So today I am turning 45, and I think it is my best age yet. When I was younger, even in my mid-30s, I walked around with so many doubts and worries – what...
I Am a Cancer Survivor
When I introduce myself to new people, I always share different parts of my identity depending upon the situation. I am a mom of two wonderful kids. I am a chemistry professor. I am...
May is Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month
May is Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month.
In this crazy time when a movement is growing to #StopAsianHate (check out these resources from the Smithsonian Museum or Reuters for more information), it is good...
Winning the Vegetable Battle
Raise your hand if you struggle to get your kids to eat their vegetables.
Yes, I see your hands, and I know that even kids that like some vegetables will fight like mad if they...
Surviving Winter
I don’t know about you, but every winter, I find myself (and my kids) getting antsy by the end of January, wishing that spring was here already. While the Romans probably weren’t battling the...
A Different Way to Celebrate Black History Month
Every February, our nation celebrates Black History Month. This commemoration usually focuses on recognizing and celebrating the amazing and important contribution that Black Americans have made to our nation and the world. Some amazing...
Upon the Loss of My Grandmother
There are so many things that make getting older better.
You have grown up, learned what is important in life, and are confident about living your values. You have had time to find a collection...
How Imaginary Ninja Battles Can Teach Me to Be More Adaptable and Gracious in...
Today is International Ninja Day, and while some people will celebrate by learning about the history of ninjas (check out National Geographic’s Ninjas Secret History Of The Ninja Uncovered Full Documentary or watching Japanese...
How a Pandemic Helped Me Love Being Dairy-Free
So one of my least favorite first-world problems of getting older has been how my metabolism has changed and how I have developed allergies over the years (sadly, I now have allergies to latex,...