Erin, Hazel & The House

Erin Holtman: a friend to all--whether it's humans or creepy-crawlies at the bottom of the ocean. Erin is a woman I have known for many years. I have watched this girl dance for a few of them, but for majority of those years I had the privilege of dancing alongside her. From gym floors, to our school's hallways (and its desks), you name it, we've most likely danced on that surface. Our most goofy memories probably took place on a football field. We performed with our high school's marching band every Friday night; home turf or away games, the Oakettes were there, and no matter the (wretched) weather. We'd wear plaid skirts when it was freezing rain outside (plaid get-ups from head-to-toe given that we were the "fighting Scots"). Some nights we couldn't wait to get the job done, but most nights... we had so much fun. The memories I have with Erin and our best friends from the team are irreplaceable. Damn, we were weird. I can't believe our coaches never separated us. Oh, wait, they did. Although our coaches loved us, I'm sure we drove them a little crazy. We were so silly together, they'd have to scold us like children. Not that we didn't deserve it--we acted like friggin' children. But, I loved that. I loved not being afraid to be so, completely ridiculous with amazing girls/dancers/friends of mine. I'd never take back the long hours of sweating, shaky muscles, and not-so-sexy Scottish attire if it meant I lost those laughs.

On my junior high and high school dance team, Erin was declared captain. She led our team with pride and so much enthusiasm. As the years go by, and graduating college together, I've noticed that Erin hasn't lost her touch. She takes no crap. She is strong and bold. She stands up for herself and those she loves. That's what's made her such a good friend. Although she is strong, as you can she, she carries herself with immense grace; she balances the two quite well. She moves beautifully. Though it's been a couple years since she's danced for an audience, she hasn't lost her talent (nor any flexibility), and I have a feeling she never will. 

College degree in Marine Biology? Check. Home owner at the age of 22? Check! I got to visit Erin's new house to take some photos of her prancing around in her backyard with her lifelong friend, Hazel. A golden retriever is a girl's best friend; or at least one is for Erin, and man, are they cute together. With the new home being a work in progress, even some empty rooms, Hazel is a good companion to keep Erin company through this process. And though it may be a "process," I can already see the tremendous potential in this cozy place. With stained glass windows, lived-in hardwood, and vintage appliances, this house will become a home in no time. Not to mention the bonus of its spacious backyard with a view of a sweet, vacant building just behind its high, picket fence. 
I am so happy for Erin and her success that will only continue to follow her as she goes through life. She can move, she's a thinker, a doer, and a loyal friend for life. I love ya, girl. Thanks for keeping us inspired.

Erin's gear is simple: a cozy sweater and black as night leggings--the essentials for a dancer. And shoes? Who needs 'em when bare feet in the dirt is only natural. 

Photography taken with my VSCO Cam