Full Breakdown
Hayley Erbert Reflects on the Complexities of Motherhood After Welcoming Daughter Everley
4/11/2026, 11:43:28 AM
Emotional Journey of Motherhood
Hayley Erbert, a professional dancer and wife of Derek Hough, has shared her profound reflections on motherhood following the birth of their daughter, Everley Capri Hough, on December 29, 2025. In an Instagram post dated April 10, 2026, Erbert expressed the emotional duality she experiences as a new mother, describing it as “even more complex and contradicting than I could have ever imagined.” She articulated the feeling of living in two places at once, where joy and heartache coexist. “My heart is constantly bursting open, while also breaking into a million pieces,” she wrote, highlighting the bittersweet nature of watching her daughter grow.
Cherishing Every Moment
Erbert emphasized her desire to savor every moment with Everley while also grieving the fleeting nature of her early childhood. She stated, “So excited for all the ‘firsts’ and the life ahead of you/us, yet wishing I could freeze time and never have any ‘lasts.’” This sentiment encapsulates the emotional push and pull of motherhood, where she finds herself both celebrating milestones and mourning the loss of previous stages of her daughter’s life.
Derek Hough's Supportive Role
Derek Hough, a six-time champion of "Dancing With the Stars," has been a supportive partner throughout this transformative journey. He commented on Erbert's emotional post with a heartfelt message, stating, “My girls,” accompanied by heart and tear-face emojis. In a previous interview, Hough praised Erbert’s transition into motherhood, saying, “I tell her every day, ‘You’re amazing. You were meant for this. You’re such a great mom.’ I’m even more in love with her.” He also reflected on becoming a father at 40, noting the cultural differences from his upbringing in Utah, where early parenthood is more common.
The Significance of Everley’s Birth
The couple considers Everley their “rainbow baby,” a term used for children born after significant hardship. Hayley faced a life-threatening health crisis prior to her pregnancy, which makes Everley’s arrival particularly meaningful. The couple announced their pregnancy in July 2025, shortly after Hayley’s recovery, and they documented their home water birth, describing it as a “raw, wild, primal, vulnerable, transformative, sacred” experience.
Conclusion: Embracing the Journey
Erbert's reflections resonate with many new parents navigating the complexities of early parenthood. She expressed her commitment to embrace the contradictions of motherhood, stating, “If this is the dichotomy of motherhood, then I’ll try my best to meet it with open arms.” Both she and Hough are adjusting to their new roles, finding renewed purpose and fulfillment in their lives as they embark on this journey together with Everley.
