Parent You Should Know: Erika Gonzalez

Erika Gonzalez is an anchor and reporter for NBC News4 and Telemundo 44. She spearheads the “4 Your Home” segments where her storytelling revolves around home improvement, design and unique real estate in the DMV. She’s called the area home for the last 10 years, which is saying a lot for a native Texan. She and her husband, Jason, met and married here as well. In August 2021, they welcomed their first child, daughter Isabela Ivana, into their family. Together, they live in Chevy Chase, Maryland.

Q&A

How is new motherhood treating you?

Motherhood has been the hardest, most rewarding experience of my life. My husband and I enjoyed six years of marriage before welcoming our baby girl. Now, we wonder how we went so long without her. She’s the best thing we never knew we needed.

What excites you about being a mom?

I get such a kick out of hearing Isabela giggle. It’s the sweetest sound I’ve ever heard, and I’d act like a complete fool just to get her to laugh.

What do you love the most about raising your family in the DMV?

Living and now raising a family in the DMV is such a privilege. We’re spoiled, really. There are wonderful parks all around us, scenic drives and a zoo that people travel to see. And it’s all in our backyard.

How do you create balance between your career and your family?

I’m writing from the comforts of maternity leave, but the time is coming—I’ll be back on the air in mid-February—when we’ll be navigating child care, workflow, dinnertime and house chores all at the same time. I know it’s going to be hard, and that’s probably the understatement of the year, but so many people do it. That gives me comfort … knowing we won’t be alone and that someone is always around to share their perspective or provide a listening ear. A glass of wine at night doesn’t hurt either.

Family Faves

Recipe:

Well, not that Isabela can have it, but my husband makes a mean coquito. It’s a coconut-based, Puerto Rican holiday beverage. He makes several batches every year, and we share them with close friends and family. We still have a few bottles we’re enjoying down to the last drop.

Way to Spend a Weekend with Your Family:

We’re pretty active people, so we hope our love for exercise and the outdoors translates to our little one. Now that she’s getting bigger, we can’t wait to put her in the running stroller and go exploring through Rock Creek Park. Then, we can stop for some pizza and beer because … balance. Am I right?

Life Hack:

We’re still learning the ropes on this parenting thing. Pro tips are welcome.

Book to Read Together:

It’s hard to narrow it down to just one book. We’re big fans of the “Lil’ Libros” bilingual series which highlights important figures, places and favorite pastimes of the Hispanic community. How could I not read to her about “Loteria” and “Selena”?

Vacation Spot:

My husband is Puerto Rican. We love traveling to the island to not only visit family, but also enjoy the beautiful beaches. I can’t wait to see Isabela dip her toes in the sand for the first time.

Rainy-day Activity:

Does shopping at HomeGoods count? I mean, that’s golden rain or shine. But, seriously, our basement is a cozy place to watch a movie and enjoy her toys. We primarily live on the first two floors of the house, so going down to the basement is a nice change of scenery.