Ask a Hills and Heighter

The twelfth entry in my simple mission to find out more about my neighbors and neighborhood. I plan to ask the same questions to artists, craftspeople, musicians and local business owners. This week we talk with Erin Sarro.  Erin won me over when I read this in the “About” section of her blog, “Don’t bother writing me about petty or not-so-petty grammar issues.” She has a fresh look at parenting and has the skills to put those thoughts into actual words that make sense.

Where did you grow up and how did you end up in Westover Hills?
I was born in the Italian/Hasidic Jewish town of Lakewood, New Jersey and moved to Midlothian when I was seven. Left when I was 17 and swore I’d never be back. Spent ten years in Baltimore and D.C. where I reunited with my now husband (who happens to be my childhood sweetheart from Lakewood), fell back in love with Richmond, and moved to Westover Hills two years ago. I usually tell that story in one breath.

How would you describe your job?
Varied. I recently quit my twelve-hour-a-day job as an ad agency copywriter and now I’m freelancing full time. I work my butt off more these days, but I love what I’m doing.

What other ventures/projects do you have going on?
I recently started a blog called MommyBeerest. It’s sort of a parenting blog meets play group meets frat party? The goal is to hang out with neighborhood moms who may not fit in with the MOPS, SAHMs, and the mall-walking crowd. We’ll meet up at different city parks and playgrounds every week. Once a month the mamas will get together to drink beer, play flip cup, and eat tacos. This is my dream.

Favorite part of living on the Southbank?
Rolling out of bed on a Saturday morning and walking to the South of the James Farmers Market. There’s always something interesting to be eaten or see: New York bagels with micro greens. Donuts dripping in the most incredible lard glaze. If you’re lucky, a dog fight or two.

What would you change about Southbank?
The tolls. I’ve been too lazy to buy an EZ Pass, so every time I go to Kroger or Carytown I’m hitting the couch cushions.

The Westover Hills shopping district. It needs a makeover and more businesses like Taza.

We could also use a Michaels around here, or an independent craft shop.
Why should I have to travel 20 minutes to find Styrofoam balls?

Advice to someone moving into the Southbank?
Take advantage of living near the river. If you have kids, picnic on the rocks, teach them about currents, go on a hike.

Pony up and buy an EZ Pass.

5 words to describe your neighborhood:
Eclectic, scenic, active, woodsy, convenient

Previous Ask a Hills & Heighter - If you know or are a good candidate for Ask a Hills and Heighter or are sitting on some questions that I sent you awhile back (there are some out there) let me know and soon you too can bask in the glory that is Hills and Heights.