Ashton Dene's Antics

Saying Hi!

2011-09-08T23:28:00.001-04:00

I know, it has been an infinity plus one day since I've updated this little blog of mine. A lot and nothing at all have been going on around here, maybe someday I'll blog about it all.

For now I wanted to share one of my current favorite songs. I heard it while watching my new obsession (Sons of Anarchy) and then became captivated by it once I bought the EP.

It is a band called Battleme (same guy that is behind Lions) and is a cover of the Neil Young song by the same name (hey hey, my my).

I made sure to include the video that shows SOA (like I said, obsessed).

Hope you enjoy it as well.

socks,
ash

Blessings!

2011-07-05T21:37:00.000-04:00

I know I haven't blogged in quite a while. The only explanation is that I've been busy living I guess.

This weekend was a huge milestone in this little life of mine. You see, I'm know a homeowner. The whole process (while it went very smooth) was anxiety for me. It's just a little crazy to know that I own something, but as the time got closer to move in I got more and more excited.

Tonight as I sit out on my amazing patio I'm feeling so blessed. I was only able to buy this house because of great advice I got when I graduated college about money and investing and from that I've purchased this thing that is all mine. My parents came up for the long weekend and spent all of it working like crazy to help me feel settled. Add in the wonderful friends I have here in Dayton who helped me pack, move heavy stuff, unload and brought (lots & lots) of ice cream it was a weekend that proved that I do have a home here in Dayton.

I'll post pictures on my facebook once I get them (lost my camera, again) and maybe a few on here, because I'm already madly in love with my little corner of the world.

& any time you find yourself in the area, call me up, I have a bedroom with your name on it and a bottle of wine to celebrate with.

x,
ash

rollercoaster

2011-05-19T18:22:00.000-04:00

My life has been a bit like a roller coaster lately. More highs than lows (thank you God), but pretty roller coaster-y.

When I wrote my vague (but honest) post about rain, I was moving. To Los Angeles. Where I've been trying to move for 3 years. Once again, it isn't in God's plan (Ohio and I are stuck together I guess).

I've found peace in just knowing where I'm going to live and am excited about the future...and glad to be off this roller coaster (even if just for a bit).

x, ash

p.s. pictures from a trip to magic mountain when I did live in California. My friend Shannon and I about peed ourselves right after we took this picture on the ride.

Rain, Rain

2011-05-01T21:50:00.000-04:00

It's raining, again.

It has been raining a lot here in Ohio. Most every day.

Lately the rain has me thinking. I like to pull my patio door open and just listen to it fall. I sit in the silence of my apartment and listen to the rain. And it makes me think. If I move to LA I won't hear rain like this. I won't be able to sit in my too-big-for-just-me-apartment in the quiet cozy community with real grass and trees outside my door and be able to just listen to rain.

What will my life be like without the rain? Will my life be without the rain?

Sometimes, for me, rain is therapeutic. You can cry when it rains and no one will notice. There's a clean and cozy feeling to rain. And a playful feeling to rain, when there are puddles to jump in and make big splashes.

What will I sit in silence and listen to if there is no rain?

x, ash

Jamaica Mission Trip: An Intro

2011-03-19T11:26:00.000-04:00

I've been back for a little over a week from my trip to Jamaica and I'm still amazed that it is over.

Here is my favorite picture from the trip:

It is baby sis and I outside of the Montego Bay airport on our first day. There are other pictures that I like as well that remind me of stories or memories from the trip, but to me this one says, "Hi, we're happy to be here, how can we help?" Getting to Jamaica was a long travel day, but once we got there, it was all gone and we were ready to do whatever work was needed.

I can't wait to share more of the trip with you.

Also, thank you so much for your prayers, donations, and kind words that helped get Kelsea and I to Jamaica. You inspired us daily to serve God not just for ourselves but also for you.

x, ash

Sunday Inspiration

2011-02-20T10:52:00.000-05:00

Random Ramblings

2011-02-16T21:22:00.000-05:00

This post is just me rambling. Enjoy.

I wish Ava Grace was still this tiny.

It kinda makes me want another kitten, but then I remember I have Ava

& she is more than enough cat for my life.

It is supposed to rain here on Friday.

I think I would really, really like rain if I had one of these umbrellas.

Feel free to find them & buy one for me.

I guess if none of those umbrellas are available,

I'd rather dance in a sunflower field then jump in puddles.

Sunflowers are magic.

& Smart.

kinda like Hermione.

My phone auto-corrects XOXO to socks.

I'm thinking about just going with it and signing everything

socks, ashton

& if you're cool you know I'm sending hugs and kisses.

it's the next fetch y'all.

socks,

ashton

I Love Valentine's Day!

2011-02-14T17:54:00.000-05:00

So I know most single people aren't a huge fan of Valentine's day...I however, am a huge fan. I love the pretty cards, the color red, sweet treats & just the idea of doing something special for people you love. (my cards were mailed early last week!)

Well let me tell you today has turned out amazing for this single gal!

It started by wearing a new present for myself (bought weeks ago)...

a bright red dress from Forever 21!

(ava snuck in to the picture as well...good thing I like her)

I went out to lunch with co-workers (friends)...no picture, but it was lovely.

Then, I arrived home to two (TWO!) packages at my door.

First, my godmama sent me some new jammies!!

(I love the print!)

& my mom and dad sent me a huggggggge box. Here's what was inside...

... sugar cookies! (my grandma Shirley's recipe),

homemade hot chocolate mix (!!! I forgot mine at Christmas and have been sad ever since),

& a crock pot (can you believe I didn't own one?)

I feel so incredibly loved :)

Happy Valentine's Day.

x, ash

Sunday Inspiration

2011-02-13T08:33:00.000-05:00

Happy almost Valentine's Day!

x, ash

p.s. image found here

(be warned,screamer music starts play if you click the link, ugh)

Sunday Inspiration

2011-02-06T10:30:00.000-05:00

A lot of you have commented on my february goals saying you wish you could do goals like mine or something of the sort. Well here's what I have to say to you...

YOU CAN BE ANYTHING YOU WANT.

so go forth and conquer the world, I believe in you.

x, ash

p.s. i really loved this post today.

Sometimes I Cook...

2011-02-05T18:05:00.001-05:00

So my second mama, Jolene, sent me a recipe over the holidays and told me the next time she was in Ohio for work I had to make it for her :)

The recipe was for a butternut squash lasagna, perfect for me as a vegetarian! Well, Jolene was in town a few weeks ago, so my first lasagna and I met. Let me tell you, lasagna is a bit of work - and a bit timely when you are roasting butternut squash...but it was worth the time and dirty kitchen. Honestly, it was probably one of the best things I have ever actually cooked myself.

Here's the recipe for all of you that asked!

Ingredients

3 pounds butternut squash, halved & seeded

3 tablespoons vegetable oil

1/4 cup unsalted butter

2 tablespoons minced garlic (I used the fresh stuff, minced myself)

1/4 cup all purpose flour (I used skim, it's what I had)

salt & black pepper to taste

1 cup heavy cream

9 lasagna noodles (it called for no-cook noodles, but I opted for the ones you cook beforehand)

1 and 1/3 cup parmesan cheese

Instructions

1.) Preheat an oven to 450 degrees F (230 degrees C). Grease a baking sheet.

2.) Brush the butternut squash halves with vegetable oil and season with salt. Roast in the preheated oven until golden and easily pierced with a knife, 45 to 50 minutes. Allow to cool for 15 to 20 minutes, then scoop the flesh into a bowl. Set aside.

3.) Heat the butter in a large skillet over medium-low heat. Cook and stir garlic in the butter until softened. Stir in flour and cook for 3 minutes. Whisk in the milk until smooth. Bring to a simmer, and cook until thick, about 10 minutes, whisking occasionally. Stir in the butternut squash and season with salt and pepper. Sauce can be made 3 days ahead and refrigerated.

4.) Reduce oven temperature to to 375 degrees F (190 degrees C). Grease a 9x13 inch baking dish.

5.) Beat the heavy cream until foamy in a large glass or metal mixing bowl. Gradually add the salt, continuing to beat until medium peaks form. Lift your beater or whisk straight up: the tip of the peak formed by the cream should curl over slightly. Set aside.

6.) Pour 1 cup of the butternut sauce into the baking dish and place 3 lasagna noodles on top in a single layer. Spread half of the remaining sauce over the noodles and sprinkle with 1/2 cup of Parmesan cheese. Place another layer of noodles and spread the remaining sauce on top and sprinkle with 1/2 cup of Parmesan cheese. Place the final layer of noodles on top. Spread the whipped cream over the final layer of noodles making sure the pasta is completely covered. Sprinkle with the remaining 1/3 cup of Parmesan. Cover baking dish tightly with aluminum foil.

7.) Bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes. Remove foil and continue baking until the top is bubbly and golden brown, about 10 minutes. Allow to rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Enjoy!!

x, ash

p.s. recipe from allrecipes.com

February Goals

2011-02-01T18:36:00.000-05:00

Hello World!

So I've decided that in addition to my New Year's Resolutions I'm going to come up with mini-monthly goals for myself. Why? Because I obviously feel like cramming just one more thing in my life!

So here are the goals in no particular order...

1. No fast food
2. 30 situps & 30 pushups everyday
3. Lose 5lbs
4. No purchases for myself (clothes, music, books, dvd, etc)

So that's what I've got going on this month! These are pretty tough goals for me (each of them) but it's a short month, so all will be well :)

x, ash

p.s. as far as my new year's resolutions go...my Jesus Jar has about 7.00 dollars owed to it (I'm bad about counting it up...), I've purchased nothing on credit & had NO coffee. :)

Sunday Inspiration

2011-01-30T09:33:00.000-05:00

x, ash

Life Changes

2011-01-29T11:49:00.000-05:00

I'm currently sitting in bed with my lap top and school books and blackberry and my kitty cat Ava. We are enjoying our Saturday morning after a long week of work and travel.

My life has recently changed a bit. You see, I've started my MBA. I feel like starting this program has done a few things for me in the short time since I've started. For one, my apartment is much cleaner (apparently homework is worse than cleaning). Second, I've enjoyed having something to focus on besides work. Which is a good thing because work is just kind of up in the air. I mean, I still have a job (don't worry about that!)... just what program I'll be supporting is up for grabs based on very stressful contract negotiations. I've found that having school gives me something to focus on that is very real and very in my control.

I still haven't quite found the groove of balance yet...the balance between work, school and life. This past week I spent some time trying to remember how I achieved that balance in college and I was smacked across the face with the realization that I didn't know balance then either. I spent a majority of my time at the bar. I was lucky I wasn't fired for missing work because I was hungover. I failed a class because I chose fun instead. I pulled all nighters to write papers that should have taken be just a couple hours of dedication. This realization gives me the ability to strive for something. To find a balance that includes work and school and the gym and dinners and movies with friends.

All in all, I've found that starting school is helping me remind me of things about myself. I like to be perfect and organized but I also like to rebel and stay for that extra cocktail at happy hour instead of doing statistics homework. I'm enjoying finding a bit of the "old Ashton" I tried so hard to lock away after four chaotic years of college and finding the balance of new, responsible Ashton with that girl.

Sunday Inspiration

2011-01-16T10:57:00.000-05:00

Sunday Inspiration

2011-01-09T13:20:00.002-05:00

Long Term Goals

2011-01-04T22:22:00.000-05:00

Lately I've been kicking around the idea of shutting down AD's Antics...I don't really have the time to make this blog what I feel it should be. (for examples of blogs I wish this blog was like see here, here, here and here) BUT, then I think about all the wonderful people I've met and I'm not really ready to say goodbye to this little blog of mine. I guess what I'm saying is posting won't be often, will probably be pretty simple, but it will still be all things I love, hate and want to discuss with y'all.
So I figure in a rather uncreative and unoriginal first post of the year, I'll tell you about my goals for 2011. I really just need a place to write them down so I remember them and actually try to accomplish them this year!!

A1. Stop saying the Lord's name in vain...I've gotten really bad about saying OMG and various other variations. It bothers me and is disrespectful.

[to help keep me accountable I'm going to give 25 cents for every time I do say the Lord's name in vain. I'm already up to 50 cents.]

B2. Buy nothing on credit.

C3. Say au revoir to coffee, for good.

So here's to the New Year and working on my goals. May this new year be a blessing to you and your's!

xo, ash

image via weheartit

Twenty Ten

2010-12-29T23:50:00.000-05:00

I know I haven't posted in forever. I know I haven't read blogs in forever. I've been busy living. Hope you have too :)

I also know most people are doing a year in review...however, I thought this year was amazing and wanted to do a recap for my own record and will torture all of you by having to read it :)

Met up with four girls in San Fransico for a 'girl's weekend' - two of them are my very best friends now

Traveled to Mexico with my grandma, mom & 2 sisters.

Turned 24

Became obsessed with baking cupcakes.

Saw a few movies with Beth.

Went camping & floating for the 4th of July

Met Lauren & Ted in Beverly Hills

Traveled to France with my Dad for the Tour de France

Met Lance Armstrong & got his autograph!

Spent a week in North Carolina with all of my Dad's family

Applied (& got accepted) to grad school for my MBA

Found out two of my very best friends are having babies!! (Congrats Jessie & Jen)

Had a random dinner night with my grandma in Oklahoma City when we were both in OK.

Started working out with a trainer (best. thing. ever)

Went to a Lar-centric wedding with Alex :)

Won twizzlers in Albert Family Bingo along with 5 dollars!

Reconnected with several old friends via the internets & made a few new ones.

I hope that 2011 is just a sliver of how awesome 2010 was. Thanks to each of you that visits here for being a part of my year, I'm glad to have each and everyone of you in my life. Here's to a happy New Year.

x, ash

Sunday Inspiration

2010-11-21T18:21:00.000-05:00

I love this picture.

When looking at it, it makes me feel like I'm on top of the world.

At my very best.

I hope it makes you feel the same.

Have a great week.

x, ash

The Water Mirror

2010-11-17T18:28:00.000-05:00

I realize, I haven't shared much from my trip to France (I'm terrible about recaps and what not)...but I was recently looking through all my pictures again as I was working on my christmas card and thought it would be fun to put more pictures up for y'all to enjoy.

In Bordeaux we spent a lot of time walking...scratch that, we spent a lot of time walking everywhere...lucky for us Bordeaux provided beautiful views. One of our favorite places that we ended up at each of our 3 days in Bordeaux was the Water Mirror. A shallow square of water that would periodically turn to mist.

Here are a few photos from there...

i thought this little boy and his mom where adorable!

same for this little girl

(love her hello kitty shirt!)

finally, i decided to check it out for myself!

these skateboarders also provided us with a bit of entertainment.

x, ash

Sunday Inspiration

2010-11-14T14:13:00.001-05:00

Thanks for always giving me a reason to find a bit of inspiration,

today, this one is for you.

x, ash

Mountain Lions

2010-11-13T20:24:00.000-05:00

So it is official y'all, I'm a Mountain Lion! I've been accepted to the University of Colorado - Colorado Springs Graduate program for Business Administration.

The program is all on-line (thank goodness since that is quite a commute Ohio to Colorado!) and accredited as one of the best. Now that I'm in graduate school, I'm actually quite excited about getting back to school. I'm set to meet with my adviser in the coming weeks and there is almost nothing I love more than putting a plan together. Now homework and tests don't really excite me, however, the idea of conquering school while working my crazy job is a challenge that I look forward to.

I feel like a lot of things are coming together for me this fall and I couldn't be more excited or happier! Thank you all for being along for the crazy ride.

x, ash

A Bit of Help

2010-11-08T20:14:00.000-05:00

So over the past few weeks or so baby sis and I have been in contact with a group from my hometown church to go on a medical mission trip with them in March.

On this mission trip there will be doctors, nurses, nurses-in-training (baby sis), and then common folk (me) where we man a clinic in the town of Falmouth, Jamaica. We will see people all day long with a wide variety of medical issues. After the doctors and nurses see the patients they stop at the pharmacy (a tiny kitchen area that holds a table) where they are sent out the door with three months worth of medicine (this is where I plan to set up shop!). This will hopefully tide them over until the next mission team makes it back to the clinic. This year the team is hoping to assemble small groups to go out into the field and set up clinics in more rural areas to treat people who are unable to make it to the clinic.

During our stay we will stay at the local Methodist church and the dormitory that has been set up to help keep the clinic running. Often times we will do odds and ins around the church to help when we are not in the clinic (on my first trip I helped build church pews!).

Well, we found out this weekend that we have been accepted as volunteers on the mission team. Now it is up to us to raise donations so that we can go on the trip. Is is $2,100 for both of us to go for the week (this includes all travel, food, etc). This is where I ask you, my blog readers, if you would be interested in donating to our cause? If so, you can email me ashtondene AT hotmail DOT com with your address and I will send you a letter that explains basically what is said above and where to send donations.

If you can't donate at this time, I would like to ask you to pray for us. Pray that the trip is a success in that we not only get to treat many patients but also that they can come closer to God through our work. Pray that we come closer to God doing His work.

Baby sis and I couldn't be more excited to share this experience together, I'm so looking forward to it!

x, ash

p.s. image from weheartit (I was going to put up pics from my first trip in HS, but my scanner won't work, no bueno)

Sunday Inspiration

2010-11-07T10:38:00.000-05:00

x, ash

Happy Halloween!

2010-10-31T12:11:00.000-04:00

Happy Halloween!

I hope you get more treats than tricks!

x, ash

Happy Birthday Momma!

2010-10-27T08:54:00.000-04:00

It was my mom's birthday yesterday and I thought I had all my bases covered, but I forgot to give her a blog birthday shout out!

So to my momma, happy birthday.

I'm sad I couldn't give you a birthday hug yesterday, I'll make sure to hug you extra hard when I see you at thanksgiving!

Love you!!

The Challenge: Office Edition

2010-10-25T21:39:00.000-04:00

So at my office, we like to play games and joke around, It keeps us young (bahaha) and breaks up the tension that occurs over long hours of fast paced work.

Well recently, we started a new challenge to keep us busy, here are just the top point earners:

Challenges: points received for each successful act – 5
Level: HIGH

1. At the end of the business meeting, suggest you all should sing the national anthem one more time. (You get 5 more points if you are the first to sing the anthem).

2. Enter the cubicle of an extremely busy colleague and, while s/he is staring at you with growing anger, switch the lights on and off for approximately 10 times. If possible, even more.

3. Address everyone for 1 hour by the name “Zue”.

4. At an important meeting tell out loud you are going to the restroom to simply s…t.

5. End up all your phrases with a “Bro” in a distinct Harlem accent.

6. While your colleague is out for lunch, put his chair in the elevator.

7. At lunch, stand up, kneel down and say out: “I swear by God I will never be hungry again!”

8. In your colleague’s day planning write “to see how s/he looks in flesh-tights” next to 10.00 tasks. (You get 5 more points if your colleague is a man and 5 more if he is your boss).

9. Take your keypad to your boss and offer: “I am selling it. Would you like to buy it at a good price?”

10. Repeat this conversation with your colleague for at least 10 times: - Do you hear that? - What? - Don’t bother. It’s gone.

11. Come to work dressed in military clothes. When asked why, make a serious face and reply: “I am not allowed to speak about that”.

12. Speak with an accent (French, German, like a child) during a very important business meeting.

13. Find a vacuum-cleaner and start cleaning all around your desk.

14. During an important meeting, start wheeling slowly your chair to the exit.

15. Have all your colleagues call you by your preferable nickname (Rocky, Untamed, Iron Lady, Batman, etc.). Sign your emails with that nickname. (You get 5 more points if you make your boss call you by the nickname).

So fun, right?

x, ash

p.s. if you want the whole list, just email me. my info's on the contact tab

Sunday Inspiration

2010-10-24T11:13:00.000-04:00

Random Facts

2010-10-23T23:28:00.000-04:00

the blog, i feel, has been all pictures i steal from the internet. and while i love all the pictures & think they are great, this blog is supposed to be more than that. so i figured i'd share a few random facts about myself. (feel free to leave some random facts of your own in the comments!)

a1. i sleep in my guest bedroom, because the bed is my favorite
b2. two of my best friends are pregnant and i'm scheming how to get home to missouri for each of the births. (you see - being an aunt is one of my dreams in life)
c3. i'm 300 miles away from platinum status with Delta. i love first class, so i'm very, very excited about this.
d4. i've recently been told i act like a girl, well duh, i am a girl. sorry i like to dance to Ke$ha songs when out drinking.
e5. lately i've spent a lot of time thinking about my friends in high school. i knew amazing people that i get along with swell now. i wish i'd have spent more time with them in HS.
f6. drawing stick figures makes me insanely happy.
g7. i hate scary movies, but love halloween!

thanks for hanging out here at the blog!

x, ash

Surprise Visit

2010-10-21T09:22:00.000-04:00

This lady with the awesome hair...

is my grandma (photo here is from our last night in mexico!)

and she is coming to visit me in Oklahoma City today!

Best. News. Ever!!

Sometimes traveling for work has a way of making itself useful!

x, ash

Life.

2010-10-20T09:55:00.001-04:00

There are certain blogs that I eagerly read each and every time they update.

One of those blogs is One in a Million (and I feel like I reference it all the time on this little blog of mine).

Her post today included this picture, which was quickly made into my desktop background.

I hope you find a bit of inspiration from this like I did.

x, ash

p.s. I promise to be back to bloggin' here soon.

Look At You

2010-09-20T23:37:00.000-04:00

x, ash

image stolen from one of my favorite blogs - http://www.pmp-oneinamillion.blogspot.com/

Stupid.

2010-09-13T07:30:00.000-04:00

Happy Monday friends --

here's a little bloggy challenge --

in the comments (or blog about it!)

tell me a story from when you did something incredibly stupid.

I'll put up my own stupid story later this week and we can all have a good laugh together!

xx, ash

p.s. image via weheartit

Sleep.

2010-09-08T22:46:00.002-04:00

So this is my plan for the rest of the evening ...

Hopefully I will fall asleep when my head hits the pillow and have an evening full of dreams.

x, ash

p.s. i hope you are having a great week.

*image

Starting the Journey

2010-09-07T21:38:00.000-04:00

Over the weekend I said I needed to pull my life together, so today, I did just that.

I woke up and weighed in (yikes!), I logged all my food today (woo weight watchers), I joined a gym (urban active), I went grocery shopping (sometimes i hate grocery shopping) and now I'm cleaning (to prepare for tomorrow's movie night).

I have planned my workouts for the week, sketched out my meals and am going to start my grad school app by this weekend.

This time I will be successful.

What are you going to achieve this time around? Join me in being successful.

x, ash

p.s. i really want these shoes!

*image

Inspiration

2010-09-06T21:01:00.001-04:00

I've been all blog fail (& a bit life fail lately, anyways) and lacking in my posts.

So here is a bit of inspiration for the start of your week.

I'm going to strive to remember this quote all week and be happy.

I hope you find this quote as uplifting as I do.

xx, ash

*image

That Time I Met Lance

2010-08-31T10:00:00.001-04:00

So I should start this post by saying, I met Lance. We didn't have a conversation. He doesn't know my name. I don't have a picture with him. However, he did sign my book (well my copy of his book It's Not About the Bike - read it if you haven't) and keep my sharpie (he owes me one).

You see - the whole reason my dad and I watch the tour de france, let alone went to France this summer, was because of Lance Armstrong (but you can read about all of that here).

Anyways, one of my goals was to get a chance to meet Lance while I was in France. I told everyone I was going to meet him. I posted it on my facebook. I carried my book & sharpie with me every where we went. I was determined.

I knew my best chance was in Bordeaux at the start of the time trial since each rider goes individually and has to warm up at the bus. Basically my dad and I had scoped out the situation in the morning at the buses (but heard Lance wasn't there yet) so we went down to the start line to find our places. Once we got to the line I was debating if I should go stand at the bus and wait for Lance. Finally I asked my dad if he thought I should go up there and he told me "of course"

So with my daddy's blessing off to the Radioshack bus I went. For three freaking hours. It was long. It was hot. I waited patiently. I got nervous that Lance would come there and I wouldn't get to see him. I was holding my book, my book was in my purse, I was holding my camera, my camera was in my purse...you get the idea

& then...the heavens parted (ok, not really, I'm being dramatic) but there came the car and out hopped Lance (picture 1) and I was busy snapping pictures and then I freaked out and realized I needed to get my book out because he was RIGHT THERE. So I got his signature, he took my sharpie, I snapped another picture (amazingly since I was shaking so much) and then skipped (literally) back to my dad, where he snapped my picture with my book.

Later my dad caught pictures of Lance taking of for his time trial and we spent the rest of the day together.

I can't believe that I got the chance to met Lance & get his autograph. It was funny because later when my dad and I were talking he said to me, "You know Ashton, your mom made me promise I would make sure you met Lance". It meant a lot to me that both my parents cared that I met him.

& honestly, while I was glad to meet Lance, spending 7 days with my dad was amazing (I can't say it enough - thanks daddy!)

So that's how I met Lance in a million words...

x, ash

baby pandas.

2010-08-30T23:09:00.000-04:00

today at my college was bid day for all the sororities on campus.

i realized today that my baby pandas are all grown up now.

look at these beautiful women...they were the last pledge class that i recruited.

i love everything about aoii, but what i love the most is these girls (pictured in this post & not pictured) that are my sisters.

alpha love. xx

p.s. all pictures from my sister Kenda's facebook page (hi Kenda! - i know you're reading!)

time.

2010-08-30T21:54:00.000-04:00

i missed sunday inspiration yesterday,

so here is a late monday night inspiration fix for you.

have a happy week.

x, ash

p.s. all images from weheartit

Sunday Inspiration

2010-08-22T21:58:00.000-04:00

x, ash

France.

2010-08-20T17:11:00.000-04:00

So I spent a glorious 7 days in France with my dad.

We visited a vineyard and drank wine.

(a french vineyard! bordeaux!)

My dad has a thing for churches, so everyone we saw, we went in and visited.

(every. single. one)

We watched a lot of guys ride bikes for a little thing called the Tour de France. (say what!)

We shared lunch over looking the lake at a palace. (versailles!)

I met one of my heroes. (!!!)

& lucky for me, I spent seven days in France with my other hero.

(Thanks for traveling the world with me dad.)

x, ash

p.s. I'll be back with more posts about all the fun we had

(and more pictures, we took over a thousand!)

Sunday Inspiration: Busy Bee Lauren Style

2010-08-08T14:07:00.000-04:00

i always feel at a loss for words when i guest post at other lovely bloggers' cute blogs. so instead of trying to come up with something witty, clever or lovely, i will offer a little advice for all of the single ladies out there.

never settle for a man.

find a man who will cuddle you when you had a bad day.

then offer to make you dinner.

even when the only "dinner" he knows how to make is pancakes.

then smile when he sets out your favorite things like:

1. nutella

2. honey

3. maple syrup

because he is unsure which one you want, so why not all of them?

and then after all of that, he will do the dishes.

my friends, that is love.

& i'm so glad i didn't settle.

Scarier Than That Time I Woke Up With A Mouse On My Pillow

2010-08-03T08:00:00.000-04:00

This little ditty is from my friend Melissa (who doesn't blog, but should). xx, ash

Scarier Than That Time I Woke Up With A Mouse On My Pillow

(Yes that really happened.)

The other night I looked toward my kitchen and under the table was the
biggest spider I have ever seen. Seriously, this thing was as big as my
head.

Have you read or seen Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets?
Remember Aragog? Well I recently re-read most of the books and spent
most of last weekend watching the Harry Potter Weekend on ABC Family
(I’m 28, I promise) and that’s what was in my head. I swear to you this
thing came straight out of the Forbidden Forest.

I was so shocked I just kind of stood there for a minute like an idiot
with my mind completely blank. The one and only thing I could think to
do was get a picture, because there was no way anybody was going to
believe this. So I grabbed my camera and jumped on the arm of the
couch. Then I basically had a panic attack - my hands shaking, heart
pounding, I was getting dizzy and felt like I was going to throw up. I
had absolutely no idea what to do and my mind was racing...

What if it comes toward me? I can't take my eyes off of it or it will get
away. I can't step on because it's huge and that would be like stepping
on a rodent and ohmygod no. If I throw something at it I'll miss and it
will take off. I'll never sleep again with that thing loose in my
apartment. Maybe I could put a bowl over it until I can figure out what
to do with it so it doesn't disappear? But the bowls are in the kitchen
and IT's in the kitchen and I'm barefoot and there's no way in hell I'm
going in there. What am I going to do? I can't live with this thing,
I'm going to have to move...

So I did what any self respecting 28 year old girl-woman does - I called
my mom. I really don't even know what I said, I was pretty much
hysterical. And of course, lovely woman that she is, my mom thought it
was hysterically funny. I was like "THIS IS NOT FUNNY! I don't know what to do!"

And then! In the middle of my loving mother’s laughter at my distress I
looked down at the camera to check out the picture I had taken and when
I looked back up, IT WAS GONE! The cause of my new case of
arachnophobia had disappeared in my home. Oh. My. God.

You want to talk about panic? I'm getting shaky thinking about it and this happened days ago.
So I shrieked to my mom, “It’s gone! I don’t know where it went! I
can’t sleep here!” And she did the best thing a mama could do - she
said she would come and find it. I certainly wasn’t about to refuse, it
wasn’t like I had specifically asked her to get dressed at 9:30 pm and
drive 3.1 miles to my house to kill a bug - she offered!

I made my sister stay on the phone with me (laughing the whole time,
bigdumbjerk) while I waited for my mom to get here, hopping back and
forth between the arm of the couch and the coffee table and constantly
scanning the floor.

My mom showed up 10 minutes later, with my dad and brother in tow because
this is my family and everyone makes a huge production out of
everything, and asked “Where is it?” as if I was hiding it in my pocket
or something. I told her it disappeared in the kitchen and that if they
didn’t find it I was going home with them. My dad and brother OF COURSE
thought this was hilarious (my family loves me so much) and basically
stood there in the way while my mom got on her hands and knees on the
floor looking under the fridge and cabinets.

This is where it gets boring... mom spotted it behind the microwave cart,
they pulled that out and it went behind the fridge so they had to pull
that out from the wall too and my dad called for the broom (as if I was
going to walk right over there to get it, yeah right) and just like
that my nightmare was over. Until my dad picked it up with a fork (eww)
and stuck it in my face (on my mom’s suggestion, so I “would know it
was really dead”) and I almost died all over again.

And then to make it even better, as they were on their way out the door and
my shaking and heart rate were finally calming down, my dad says “just
think, it could have been a mama and there will be babies crawling all
over the place.” Seriously?! He’s lucky I didn’t kick him in the shins
for putting that in my mind.

I’ve attached photographic evidence, since I’m a genius and in times of
crisis the only thing I can think to do is grab my camera. Here is THE
MONSTER as compared to a slightly not at all altered picture of the
back of my head, since I don’t have a face on the Internet.

Impossible to Do

2010-08-02T08:00:00.000-04:00

This post is from my dear friend Mar, who taught me what it means to really love music. Mar can normally be found at her blog, Sketches of a Twenty-Something Life. x, ash

Music; noun /ˈmjuː.zɪk/ n [U]

a pattern of sounds made by musical instruments, singing or computers, or a combination of these, intended to give pleasure to people listening to it.

Really, online version of the Cambridge Advanced Learner’s Dictionary? Music is intended to give pleasure to people listening to it? Interesting.

Because yes, it gives me pleasure when I see one of my favorite bands play live. When I hear a great song I can’t help but dance to. When I share one of my favorite songs with my friends and they end up liking it just as much as I do.

But music to me is much, much more;

I get goose bumps when I listen to the songs on my ‘Songs to Love and Die by’ playlist.

If I feel like crying I put on my ‘Sad Songs (for Dirty Lovers)’ playlist.

I sleep with my ‘With Tired Eyes’ playlist softly playing in the background.

I party with my ‘All Tomorrow’s Parties’ playlist.

I calm down when I listen to my ‘What Comes After the Blues’ playlist.

When I want to experience the 80s and 90s, I put on my ‘The Heart Brings You Back’ playlist.

And when serious rocking out is needed, I pick ‘Locked Hearts and Hand Grenades’.

Music gives me hope. Strength. Comfort. Guidance.

It makes me believe that things will be alright in the end, crazy as that might sound.

And it brings back memories, almost like there is a soundtrack to my life:

When I hear anything from La Rocca’s first album The Truth I am taken back to the week when I was reading the complete Tomorrow series from John Marsden with the album playing in the background. I could even tell you which part I was reading when listening to a certain song.

When I hear Driver’s Seat from Sniff and the Tears, I go back to being an 8-year old girl, sitting in the backseat of my parents’ car, on my way to France for our summer holiday. I remember the mix tape Dad made for me, how it was exactly 90 minutes long and how I figured out that if I listened to the tape ten times in a row, we would be at our destination. Even now, I sometimes still listen to that tape when I’m at home, just to get those memories back.

So, to quote a Mr. John Miles: “To live without my music would be impossible to do.”

Could you? Live without music?

- Mar

In case you were wondering; the names of the playlists are all taken from episodes of One Tree Hill. Thanks to this show I have gotten introduced to some wonderful new artists and songs. Artists and songs that I otherwise still would not have known. And it was what ultimately made Ash and I become friends. Full circle indeed.

Sunday Inspiration

2010-08-01T08:00:00.003-04:00

Hello everyone!! I’m Lauren from Lovely Lauren Leigh and I have the pleasure of guest blogging for Miss Ashton while she is travelling the world. I hope you all enjoy!

Sunday Inspirations are my absolute favorite posts on this blog. I can count on them every week to really touch me. I also love them because so much of who Ash is comes through in these lovely posts. We see her wit, her charm and the compassion she has for others. Just a little bit of how awesome she really is.

Just some happy little words that we all should remember. Sometimes it’s our friends that we don’t see every day that make the biggest impacts on our lives.

xoxo, Lauren

How to Tolerate the Heat!

2010-07-29T05:16:00.000-04:00

This is a repost of Ivy's a-mazing guest post since the pictures were lamespice and didn't show up the first time (i'll be doing this with alex's post as well!). Please love it with me! x, ash

Yay for guest bloggers!!!! Ashton gets to go to France, We get to take over her blog!! Woot Woot ;-)

My name is Ivy, I blog over at Inspirations by Ivy and occasionally at Bangin' Hot Book Boys. Both blogs are fun to read--especially BHBB--we all love hot boys in our books and in our blogs so keep reading this post!

Do you feel the HEAT? I am hot, I mean sweating hot due to the sweltering summer temperatures and this dense humidity! We really need some inspiration to cool off AND we should probably heed good medical advice to avoid a heat stroke. In my professional life I am an R.N. with over 15 years experience in the medical field. My most recent stint is dermatology where I have learned the importance of Sun Safety! Add to that my 24/7 job as a mom to 4 kiddos--I think I am overly qualified to give you the following medical advice on how to stay cool this summer and keep your skin and eyes safe from sun damage.

First Off, Protect those beautiful windows to your soul--

If it is too hot outside, stay indoors in the air conditioning and lounge around--

Or keep yourself cool by swimming at the beach--

--or the pool--

--staying wet is key, evaporation helps to keep you cool--

--you can even go surfing in tight, almost white see through trunks--

Try staying cool in the shade of a tree--

Sometimes you should just avoid daytime sun exposure and go out at night--

And if all else fails, strip those layers and get naked--

I would not recommend smoking, it is nasty unless you are Rob--

Please also remember to wear your hat and sunscreen--

This is my professional, medical advice to you for the rest of this hawt hawt summer. I hope you found it educational. I tend to learn better if I there are pictures with words showing me the learning material--and repetition also helps. So, scroll back to the top and re-read this educational post over and over again until you have all these summer tips memorized. There will be a pop quiz over at my blog and you wouldn't want to show up unprepared.

Cheers~Ivy

21

2010-07-28T08:00:00.000-04:00

Happy 21st Birthday Baby Sister!

I'm sorry I can't be there today to help you celebrate, but I'll see you soon!

x, ash

p.s. yes, I'm back from France, no I'm not going to tell you about it yet...it's the princesses birthday :)

Swoon Worthy

2010-07-27T08:00:00.001-04:00

Hello everyone who frequents 'Ashton Dene's Antics' *waves hi* (which totally means I just waved at myself because I frequent this blog. Um. Awesome.) I would shake your hands to introduce myself, but I probably 'know' a lot of you, and it is impossible to shake hands via the interwebs. But yeah, I am Alex...I blog over at 'Always Alexandria' and I am taking over this blog for the day!

So, since Bff Ashton is on a fabulous European vacation with her dad, she asked me to guest post on her bloggity blog. I, of course, agreed even though I am GREEN with envy that she is off having fun, while I am starting a new job. Lame.

Speaking of said new job, I just got my very first big girl job after graduating in May. Scary? Yes. Exciting? Yes. I am SUPER excited that this job means I can soon start saving money to travel and buy things that I have been swooning over, but couldn't swing when I was a broke ass college kid. So, I decided since that is all I can think of I would share some things I am currently lusting after.

I now present y'all with the list o' things that I will be buying when I get my first paycheck (not really, but some of them will be purchased with said first check, others will be saved for, or not purchased at all. the point? i love all of these items)...holler dollar bills...

{1.} 'Dahlia Bloom Bag'-Anthropologie

I am SO coveting this bag. Anthroplogie is a store I avoid religiously, because they always have bags that I need in my life, but that would slay my bank account. Such as this gem that retails for $298 bones. I love the funky color!

{2.} 'Delphi Hippodrome Belt'-Anthropologie

I have recently become obsessed with all things belted! I love cinching up a flowy top with a stretchy belt. They are super comfy, add a bit of pop to your outfit, and are flattering on all body shapes and sizes. Plus, they make your boobs look ginormous...which in my world is a very good thing. This bad boy only costs $42.00, which is dirt cheap at Anthro!

{3.} 'Collected Memories Mirror'-Anthropologie

I 100% NEED this to be hanging on my wall. I am so in love with it, it is kind of ridiculous! It is not as ridiculous as the price of this item. It would cost you $698.00 bucks to have this in your home. I would NEVER spend that much, but I may look into a do it yourself replica! Swoon.

{4.} 'Guave Flower Chemise'-Anthropologie

Has anyone noticed there is a very specific theme to all of my wants? Yep. I spent quite a bit of time perusing Anthropologie today. I found like eleventy thousand 'must have' items. This item was under the lounge wear section, which is fabulous. It could be comfy stay at home wear, or could be paired with a pair of jeans for a super cute day look. I am in serious love with it. I would however nix the bow and cinch it in with a funky belt. You can purchase this gem for $78.00 bones!

{5.} 'Bathing Beauty One Piece'-ModCloth

I am not normally a big fan of the one piece bathing suit. To me they never seem to suit my body shape, plus they make me feel like I am a ten year old. I stumbled upon this suit and DIED. It is so cute and retro and I must have it as soon as possible. Not only is it adorable it is also only $90 dollars! Which may sound like a lot, but just think how many summers this bad boy would last you! It is totally worth it!

I am now officially done swooning for the day! I hope you all enjoyed some of these items! So tell me, what are some things you currently must have in your lives?

Thanks Ashton for allowing me to hijack your blog!

xoxo

J'Adore Paris

2010-07-26T08:00:00.011-04:00

This is from my fellow travelista Cristin who shares my love of banana cupcakes and jumping on hotel beds! x, ash

Hello Friends.

I am here because my dear Ashton is not with us {not in a dead kind of way, more in a disconnected from her blackberry kind of way which let's be honest is almost dead} but today I don't really want to be here either...and in the spirit of honesty, I am assuming ya'll don't either. We don't want to be staring at our computers, we want to be in Paris, wearing berets and eating croissants whilst staring at Frenchmen and attempting not to visibly drool.

Alas we are not, we are here whilst Ms. Ashton gallivants, so today I hope to allow for us all to enjoy some of the most divine parts of my favorite city, Paris.

The love. Love lines the streets, couples making out in public, strangers kiss as a greeting. Paris abounds with love and it makes my heart sick for that city just thinking about it.
The lingerie. Lace and silk, this is brassiere craftsmanship at it's best. Parisian lingerie is the quickest way to make a horrible day better and a bad hair day tolerable.
The history. Where else could you find an underground cave of skeletons under a cathedral next to a beautiful river leading to the Eiffel Tower?
The shopping. The oldest kitchen store in the world is located in Paris. The most famous fashion houses to be built are located here. Paris is a shopping Mecca and all women should pay homage.
The food. Meringues. Palmieres. Crepes. Macaroons. Tiny cakes. Chocolate. The list continues for days and my stomach yearns to go back.
The men. French men. French men. French MEN! In the words of Kelly Catrone "Every woman should have at least one affair with a French man."
Now my dears, whilst these things are all wonderful, my absolute favorite thing about Paris is being an American in it. Laughing until my abs hurt when it's complete inappropriate, donning a beret at every occasion, taking silly pictures and trying to speak French whilst failing miserably. Those are the moments I love the most.

To the lovely Ashton, I hope you are enjoying all of these things and many many more as your traipse about the French countryside.

{Au Revoir}

Sunday Inspiration

2010-07-25T08:00:00.000-04:00

I have fought the good fight.

I have finished the race.

I have kept the faith.

2 Timothy 4:7

Hey loves! I hope you are enjoying all the guest posting that is going on here at ADA, I know I love all these ladies :) Today is the final day of tour and I'm planning on seeing them present the final podium in person!!

x, ash

How To Tolerate The Heat

2010-07-24T08:00:00.001-04:00

Yay for guest bloggers!!!! Ashton gets to go to France, We get to take over her blog!! Woot Woot ;-)

First Off, Protect those beautiful windows to your soul--

If it is too hot outside, stay indoors in the air conditioning and lounge around--

Or keep yourself cool by swimming at the beach--

--or the pool--

--staying wet is key, evaporation helps to keep you cool--

--you can even go surfing in tight, almost white see through trunks--

Try staying cool in the shade of a tree--

Sometimes you should just avoid daytime sun exposure and go out at night--

And if all else fails, strip those layers and get naked--

I would not recommend smoking, it is nasty unless you are Rob--

Please also remember to wear your hat and sunscreen--

Cheers~Ivy

Wonderwall

2010-07-23T08:00:00.001-04:00

{http://imgfave.com/view/748213}

I felt totally honored when ashton asked me to ~~hijack her blog~~ guest post for her while she’s on vacation! I really hope I don’t disappoint… (ashton interrupting to let you know this is the amazing Amanda, you can find her here most days! x)

I was browsing around one of my favorite image sights {imgfave.com} the other day, and immediately saw this. And felt like it was my life.

(if you’re curious, this line is from the oasis song ‘wonderwall’ but that’s kind of beside the point..)

Anyway. I am a very word oriented person. They’re the way I communicate. I can write eloquent letters and heartfelt blog posts and emails to the point of making sure my pens, paper, and computer end up snatched by someone who is simply tired of hearing from me.

But when it comes to speaking? I’m a wreck. I freeze. Thoughts run endlessly through my mind, and yet voicing any of these is almost out of the question.

I stumble over the words I could write so eloquently and become frustrated when what I do say comes out wrong.

So much of our lives are spent communicating. Within our homes, within our jobs, within our relationships, with the person working the drive-thru window.

Of course, it’s way easier to order a cheeseburger than to have a heartfelt talk or an important discussion. So much depends on our ability to communicate effectively.

And I find myself with so much I want to say…and no idea where to start.

Where the boy is concerned, I’m still figuring out the transition from friend to boyfriend. There are so many things I want to be able to tell him, and I don’t even know where to start.

There are some people in my life that I would love to be able to speak my mind to, without breaking down into tears.

I have opinions on issues that I would love to be able to argue clearly and concisely, to get my point across, and not just sound like a fool arguing a moot point.

I sometimes wish I could get through a conversation on why I am upset without reverting into silent mode with a side of fresh, salty tears.

So it’s not easy:

‘all the roads we have to walk are winding and all the lights that lead us there are blinding’.

But this is my challenge for myself, that may also apply to you:

Let’s speak our words. I’m really scared. But I want to be able to say ‘I don’t believe that anybody feels the way I do, about you now’ and not have to enclose the meaning behind a pretty font and a media outlet.

Goal?

To change ‘there are many things that I would like to say to you but I don’t know how’ into ‘there are so many things that I was able to talk to you about with no problem whatsoever and I didn’t even cry so aren’t you so very proud of me?’

{I may have just channeled author Jen Lancaster’s style with that last sentence. Whom I highly suggest so go buy one of her books this very second and why are you still sitting here reading my incessant interweb rambling? Ashton & I both love her and you sould trust us – even though I am a blog hijacker - and know we wouldn’t steer you wrong in your literary quests. Why are you still here? Oh. Maybe I should stop now, huh?}

Daily Dose of Funny

2010-07-22T08:00:00.001-04:00

Hey everyone, it's Vanessa here from Caramel Covered Photographs. I'm filling in for the beautiful Ashton as she is currently frolicking in France. Am I jealous? You bet! So what do I do when I need cheered up? Well, I turn to the internet for some fun. I seemed to have found 5 main sites that never fail me. They also keep me entertained and laughing. They are the formula for an instant cheer-up. So please, love them with me!

First up is Awkward Family Photos.

This is the first site I have in my "Humor Me" folder in Google Reader. We've all seen them. The hideous and odd pictures of families. Heck, maybe y'all have some odd family photos. Every time I think they can not get any weirder, they do.

Top Left: Can we say scary Easter bunny? The poor child is crying. I would be too.
Bottom Left: Ew. That's all. I'm second-hand embarrassed for those children.
Top Right: Nothing like a family picture around the dentist chair! How bonding!
Bottom Right: I thought my mom was cruel with what she made me wear. I was wrong, it would have been worse. Way, way worse.

Next is a very popular blog y'all probably know already. Cake Wrecks.

Now as someone who loves to bake and decorate cakes, this site makes me sad and laugh at the same time. It amazes me how stupid people can be by spelling things wrong and selling them. In professional bakeries. Say what?! Making money off of ugly cakes? Please feast your eyes on these baked goods.

First: Aww, Pooh & Eeyore & a fish? They totally go together...
Second: Happy Birthday*insert random words that are scribbled and covered with a bottle of sprinkles"
Third: I don't know about you, but I've ALWAYS wanted to eat an infected toe for dessert.
Forth: To the fist of many to come? Oops, who needs that "r" anyway.

This next site, if I was brave enough to venture out, I'm pretty sure I could photograph for this site. It's the ever classy People of Wal-mart.

Oh Wally-World. You make my skin crawl just thinking about you. I don't know what your Wally-World is like, but mine? Full of trash and more trash. I avoid this place like the plague due to people like this.

Top Left: Dogs & children are close enough. Both should be dragged through the store by a leash, Right?
Bottom Left: I'm thinking her inspiration just might be Cruella Deville sans the hair.
Top Right: Honestly, I just want to hug him.
Bottom Right: Gold belt, earrings, chest hanging out all equal hottie in my book.

Another site that always gets me laughing is Passive Aggressive Notes.
This site has me rolling on a daily basis. I find people's attempts at being passive aggressive hilarious. This site has anything from facebook posts to signs to notes. You name it, it's on here for your entertainment. Here is a note from a zoo that cracks me up:

Lastly I leave you with my favorite videos to watch. My Harry Potter nerdy-ness comes out here with my love for Potter Puppet Pals. These videos are hilarious and full of wonderful quotes. I'm known to break into song at random points, especially the "Snape, Snape, Severus Snape... DUMBLEDORE!" song. It's probably my favorite. Second favorite? Wizard Swears!

That concludes my list of go-to funny sites. I hope y'all find them as funny and entertaining as I do!
What are some of y'all's favorite funny sites?

Also, thanks Ash for letting me guest post here! Hope you're enjoying France, can't wait to hear all about it, and I love your face!

Love It With Me Wednesday: Miranda Lambert

2010-07-21T08:00:00.002-04:00

Hi. My name is Kimberly! You can usually find me here. I am so honored to be gracing Miss Ashton’s lovely blog with my presence!! Although, I do sorta wish I could be stalking Lance with her … Ahhhh Oh well, back to reality people. Ashton is in France and we are not so let us make the best of it!

I have a new feature on my blog called, Love It With Me Wednesday. Each Wednesday I share something that I love with my readers (all 5 of them). This week I would like you to love…

Miranda Lambert

I love her new song…House that Built Me . Now that I live away home this song really touches me. There is really something healing about going home.

That’s the song that is on my mind today.

Remember her breakout album? Kerosene? Well, I love it. My favorite track is Mama, I’m Alright.

Well the sun just got through going down on a sleepy little Texas town
Population plus one minus one
A new grandma rocks my sister's kid just like twenty years ago she did
The same thing in that same chair, she said "this one's born to run"

Every day at noon like a chapel bell, find her Jesus, keep her well
Help her do more right than wrong at the end of the day

I've got five good years and a tank of gas, fifty watts and Johnny Cash
A guitar and a broken heart just full of things to say

You taught me how to stand those tests and trials
But you can't see a desert sunrise in the Bible

She loves me more than anything
And she wants the world for me
Her west dropped off in El Paso
And her north in Abilene

Mama I'm ok out here
I've seen how hard the world can be
My step is sure and I know my name
I'm strong just like you prayed I'd be
I'm strong just like you prayed I'd be

If I'd have done what you and daddy done, would have never lost and never won
Or gotten myself kicked when I was down

I would not know how to travel well, A hundred bucks and cheap motels
I would not know how to fight for my own heart next time around

Now don't you cry another night about me
In this city I've got angels all around me

She loves me more that anything
And she wants the world for me
Her west dropped of in El Paso
And her north in Abilene

Hey Mama I'm OK out here
I've seen how hard the world can be
My step is sure and I know my name
I'm strong just like you prayed I'd be
I'm strong just like you prayed I'd be

I felt it every time you prayed for me
I'm strong just like you prayed I'd be

Obvious reasons for me to love this song-

1) I love my Mama.

2) I’m from Texas.

I will now move on to deeper thoughts. My Mama. I really can’t think of a more amazing woman (don’t bother make suggestions…I will shoot them all down). She loves her children unconditionally, as I image that most parents do. I know that my poor Mama has spent many many night knelt by her bed with tear filled eyes praying for us. Too many times for me while I was making some pretty bad choices. I gave her so many reasons to give up on me and she was never anything less than loving. She is the reason that I got my booty back in line and I know that it was hard for her to see me move across the country. I know that she still prays for me. I do feel it every day. I am happy to say “I’m strong just like you prayed I’d be”. Love you, Mama!

Thanks for having me Ashton!! I miss your pretty face!

Au Revoir

2010-07-20T07:44:00.000-04:00

Today is the day!

Pops and I are both headed to France

[prayers for safe travel is much appreciated!]

via separate airlines and travel itineraries.

Things to do this trip

meet Lance Armstrong [i packed a sharpie & his book to have him sign - positive thinking!]
eat a chocolate croissant [amber made me promise - really twisted my arm]
drink copious amounts of wine [hello bordeauxxxxxxxxx!]
see the gardens of Versailles [crossing fingers on this one]
& of course, watch the tour de france!

So exctied!

x, ash

p.s. even though I'm gone, I have a surprise for you on the blog - many of my friends are guest blogging for me while I'm gone, so stop by every day & meet them and read their great posts!

p.p.s as I type this Lance Armstrong has a lead on the race...he could win the stage today -- kicking the trip off with the perfect start

Who Ya Rootin' For

2010-07-19T08:00:00.001-04:00

We all know that my hero and homeboy Lance Armstrong is out of it. I'm still bummed, but I'm slowly getting over it.

I also know that this Tour de France really comes down to two people...

It's either this guy

Doesn't he just look like a smug bastard?

Yeah, he's also Lance's rival...which obviously means I can't cheer for him

(even though he is probably the best cyclist in the sport)

He is Alberto Contador (2 time tour winner)

or this guy

Doesn't he look so friendly?

(ok, I may have been a bit biased in my picture choosing...it is my blog after all)

This is the Saxo Banks rider, Andy Schleck.

Well, I can say for sure, that I really hope Andy Schleck pulls out the Tour de France victory. He is currently wearing the yellow jersey & the white jersey (yellow = winning the race, white = best young rider). He won the white jersey last year and placed second to Alberto. (and just so you know, I decided to cheer for him before he took the yellow jersey)

Andy is best in the mountains (Alberto, unfortunately, is good at everything) so this year's race could really come down to the wire (and by the wire, I mean the individual time trial that I will be in attendance at!). Andy is not so hot at the time trial, but I have faith in the guy.

As for the rest of the podium? I want Lance's homeboy (and teammate) Levi Leipheimer to make it there...but it's gonna be dicey with him currently sitting in 6th.

I honestly can't believe that I leave for this trip in one day! This year's tour has yet to disappoint and I can't wait to see it in person and with my dad!

x, ash

Sunday Inspiration

2010-07-18T10:39:00.000-04:00

Happy Sunday!

x, ash

You Thought That You Knew Me

2010-07-17T09:55:00.000-04:00

So I was browsing weheartit (my favy, fav site) and stumbled across this striking image...

Just seeing this picture I am somewhat overtaken with deep, dark feelings that make my chest tighten up.

Wouldn't this be the perfect place to go and ask God all your questions?

Or scream and yell and it be overtaken by the weather?

Or cry your eyes out and no one would ever know because of the rain?

A stunning image.

x, ash

p.s. image credit here

Quote of the Day

2010-07-16T10:23:00.000-04:00

"And think not that you can guide the course of love.

For love, if it finds you worthy, shall guide your course"

- Kahlil Gibran

Rookie

2010-07-16T08:00:00.001-04:00

" You have the raw ability to be senior leadership,

education opens the doors"

-- my boss in an email to me this afternoon.

How could you not love your job when your boss sends you emails like that, 2 years into your career?

I count my blessings everyday for the path my life is currently on.

x, ash

Would You Wanna?

2010-07-15T08:00:00.000-04:00

I'm going to be out of town for a few weeks, would any of you like to guest blog for me while I'm gone??

Leave me your email in a comment and I will get with you this week!

x, ash

What I Like About Lance

2010-07-14T08:00:00.001-04:00

So my friend Shannon texted me (tweeted me?) the other day to let me know that Lance was on the cover of a magazine. I did know, but I thanked her...then she said, I don't understand what you like about all of this, but I love that you do.

This made me think, maybe I should share why I love Lance and the Tour de France.

I first started watching the Tour in 2004 (I think...I can't really recall) either way it was at the height of Lance Armstrong (and predated the yellow Livestrong bracelet) and he had already won a few at this point (his first Tour win was 1999). Anyways, the tour is in France (obvi!) so it started early in the morning Central time (some days at 6 AM) and I remember I would crawl out of bed early in the morning and sneak down to the basement to watch the live coverage with my dad. It was something we did every day. We bought cycling magazines to learn what the green, white & polka dot jerseys were, to see the technology that went into the bikes, and to get a better understanding of what we were watching. I remember that Lance won that year & debuted his yellow livestrong bracelet & I ordered a whole box of them as a surprise for my dad (this was before you could buy them at Dick's sporting good store). From there, I was hooked.

I read Lance's biography It's Not About the Bike (a great read that I highly recommend) and got to know more about what his battle with cancer was like and what his tour victories really meant (it was more than just winning, but surviving cancer).

The next summer my grandpa died (really unexpectedly) and I moved in with my grandma. Since I had summer school and work, grandma ordered TiVo and made sure we had OLN (now versus) so I could record the race. Most every day she would watch with me when I got home and humored me as I analyzed the whole race. My dad and I would chat each day about how we thought things were going. This summer I knew more about the race, so I just became more and more involved.

After Lance retired, I didn't watch as religiously but payed enough attention to be excited for American Floyd Landis to win and then be disappointed when the race was stripped from him (for doping). The whole Landis thing really angered me and I stopped watching the tour all together. However, I never stopped keeping up with Lance. I watched him run marathons, grow Livestrong, and become rather known as a serial dater (but I overlook this, because I like the guy so I give him some wiggle room).

Then, Lance announced he was coming back to racing and I was immediately excited again. The tour started and I was back watching every day -- I was also back to talking with my dad every day. I wanted so badly for Lance to overtake his teammate (and rival) Alberto Contador to win the tour last year, but was ok with him placing third. I was mostly ok with his podium finish because he announced he was joining a new team and racing in 2010.

It was that day I emailed my dad & it went something like this "Dad, Lance has announced he's riding in 2010, I think a trip to France is calling our name. Love, Ashton" Much to my surprise, my dad agreed. So we started planning our trip...anxiously awaiting the tour route to be announced (October!), finding the perfect place to stay (we did!), and all the necessary things that go with planning a trip over seas. All year we have discussed team Radioshack, Lance & tour news. The Tour started this year and I was home for the 4th of July holiday -- so we watched together. Almost every day this tour we have talked...most recently about who we want to be in yellow now since it probably won't be Lance. In a week we will be in Bordeaux ready to witness the most exciting stages in person!

So I guess, I love the tour because yes, I love Lance, and I think he is a great person, but I really love it because it is something I get to do with my dad. It is our thing together. It is something that keeps us connected when I'm far away that just the two of us do. I mean yes, my mom and sisters watch the tour and cheer along, but they don't get crazy like Dad and I do (and I admittedly am more crazy than he)...

...but that's it in a nutshell.

x, ash

p.s. I realize this is like a book...love me anyways?! xx

Quote of the Day

2010-07-13T13:55:00.000-04:00

"Luck never gives; it only lends"

Swedish Proverb

Free Advice

2010-07-13T10:38:00.000-04:00

Elsie, over at A Beautiful Mess, is the creator of one of my most favorite blogs that is one of my 'must' reads when I have a quick minute to spare. I love the crafts she completes, her adventures with Mr. L & just the general good mood that she has and shares on her blog.

Well, Elsie recently started a new feature called "5 tips" & this week was 5 tips for bloggers -- if you blog, I strongly suggest you read it, I find the advice to be helpful and honest!

Elsie is also a part of Red Velvet Art which is a really cool store, I expect I'll be buying several Christmas gifts from there this next winter :)

Happy Tuesday!

x, ash

Heavy Heart

2010-07-12T09:10:00.000-04:00

It is with a heavy heart today that I have accepted the fact that Lance Armstrong is not going to win the Tour de France this year. In fact, he probably isn't going to make the podium, or hell, even the top 10.

Part of me wishes he would have stayed retired and gone out as the guy that won the Tour seven times (more than anyone else, ever) instead of the guy that used to be a champion. & that's not even really honest because Lance has had a really unlucky Tour. A flat on the cobbles? Three crashes on the first big mountain stage? All things that are out of his control, but none the less, all things that have made Levi the new RadioShack team leader and put Lance out of the running.

I guess, really the point is, I have a heavy heart about it.

x, ash

Feeling A Bit Loved

2010-07-12T08:00:00.002-04:00

A few weeks back (I've been a bad blogger, ironic, I know) my friend Lauren over at Clever Betty awarded me The Versatile Blogger Award. She also made this super cute clutch for me as a present (so check out her shop!)

As a part of this award I'm supposed to tell you 7 things you don't know about me (which, hello!, is fine with me as I write about myself all the time on the blog!)

1. I don't own a couch, just 2 blue recliners my parents have owned since I was born.
2. My favorite tea is Tazo Green Tea Zen (I'm currently enjoying it while watching the Tour de France)
3. In high school I served on mission trips to both Jamaica & Mexico. I learned that my heart is capable of so much love & that even super girly me can frame a house.
4. I often struggle with religion, but never with the fact that Jesus is end game (& my homeboy)
5. I have a separate savings account just for traveling & money taken out of each paycheck for that account.
6. My nails are currently the color "Almost Famous" a yellow that just happens to perfectly match my yellow livestrong bracelet & the yellow jersey in the Tour de France
7. Smokebombs are my favorite fireworks.

Now for the fun part of any award -- passing it on to my favorite bloggers :)
Little Reminders of Love
Lovely Lauren Leigh
Always Alexandria
It's A Love Story
Busy Bee Lauren

So go check out their blogs if you haven't already :)

Thanks again Lauren for the blog award!

x, ash

Sunday Inspiration

2010-07-11T08:00:00.001-04:00

Things I Love, Things I Hate.

2010-07-10T15:15:00.000-04:00

Things I Love:

Lance Armstrong, obvi

Things I Hate:

Voicemails.
My recording used to be "Hi, this is Ashton, I don't listen to voicemails, so don't waste our time."

Things I Love:

Lance Armstrong, talking about how voicemails are overrated & unnecessary

Things I Hate:

The fact that Lance may suck it up at the tour this year.

x, ash

p.s. Madre -- this is another reminder, stop leaving me voicemails!! xx

Mama Cullen

2010-07-09T22:59:00.000-04:00

Dear Mama Cullen,

I love this dress. I want it for my closet. In fact, it makes you look #FH.

Love, ashton

P.S. do you like? dislike? share your thoughts!

Sunday Inspiration: 4th of July Edition

2010-07-04T08:00:00.010-04:00

Happy Freedom.

Never forget you are free.

Never forget the people who fought for our freedom.

Never forget the courage that created our freedom.

Never forget you are free.

Happy Freedom.

x, ash

image via
p.s. Happy Birthday Beth! xx

Meeting BBL

2010-07-03T08:00:00.000-04:00

It's Thursday night.

It's only appropriate that on this Thursday night people are crowding the streets to catch a glimpse of these three people...

The three people that have brought to life the Twilight saga on the big screen. Who have created a phenomenon across the world.

Because on this same Thursday night across town sitting in a gorgeous restaurant I was having dinner with this girl (and her not pictured husband, sorry Ted!)

You see, I first 'met' Lauren when I stumbled across her hilarious Twilight blog called Lauren's Bite. From there, I found her personal blog (Busy Bee Lauren, you all know it...) and from there we started a friendship across the blogosphere.

It is because of Lauren that this little blog even exists. It is also because of Lauren that I met Alex, Lar, Vanessa & Christina for a fabulous weekend in San Francisco. & because of Lauren that I found Natalie, who introduced me to Cristin's blog who I also met in San Francisco. I wouldn't be a Lost fan (or owner of so much good music) if I hadn't meet Lula who is friends with Lauren. I've also reconnected with one of my childhood friends because of Lauren's blog... basically most of my new friends and people who I talk with regularly are people I met because of Lauren.

So, when the stars aligned and Lauren & Ted were on vacation in LA the same time I was there for work we made plans to meet for dinner. It was the perfect end to a crazy work week. I had an amazing time sitting and enjoying good food and great conversation.

Lar, I'm so glad we finally met in real life, you are a beautiful person. Thanks for everything, I'm so glad we are friends!

x, ash

Summer!

2010-07-02T17:00:00.000-04:00

Warrensburg here I come!

There's just something about summer that always makes me happy...

Happy summer to you! Hopefully you will be enjoying this holiday weekend!

x, ash

image via

Trip to the Burg

2010-07-01T23:32:00.000-04:00

A couple of weekends I went home for a quick visit & it was crazy busy...

One of my sorority sisters, Amber, was in town for a job interview so we grabbed lunch together. Constant laughs & amusement we had by both of us.

I had my one year appointment for my lasik.

20/20...take that blindness!

A true miracle & one of the best decisions I've ever made.

A dinner party with my godmama & her family. As I've said before, Karebear is fighting the good fight against cancer & every moment with her is precious. Plus, mi madre knows how to throw a dinner party.

Drinks with the boys. It was like most of my favorite men in the world where all in the same place. Many beers and fun conversations took place.

(& mi madre picked me up from the bar, no shame people - responsible it what that's called)

Saturday brought a bridal shower for my soon to be cousin.

Hot tea, tea sandwiches, cupcakes & chocolate strawberries aka food heaven.

Hanging with my mom & sisters, chatting with my grandma & aunt, playing cheesy bridal party games.

Checking out baby sis' new apartment in the city.

My sorority sister Kim's wedding. I was a candle lighter (I rocked it, obvi). Seeing my sorority mama (best date ever!), my sorority daughter (love you Amy!) and my best guy (ski!!!!!!!) and many other sorority sisters was amazing.

Best wishes & congrats to Kim & Drew. Thanks for letting me share in such a big day!

Back to the burg Saturday night with Jen to catch up with friends. Drinks at Fitter's then Cadillac Ranch (I can't make that name up. I hate this bar.) BFF Jessie made it out for a drink (yay!)

and you'd think after all of this adventure...all of the people I saw, all the times I was dressed up & the fact that I carried my camera every where I would have pictures...

well this is the lone picture from the weekend

Yeah...some guy walked in to the bar & ordered 75 jagerbombs & I thought that of all things this was the time to bust out my camera.

figures.

x, ash

LiveStrong

2010-06-30T22:03:00.000-04:00

I just want to prepare all of you...because around here your going to find more and more about the Tour de France, Lance Armstrong & the such.

First thing first, I could be happier to start my blogs about biking introducing you to my Uncle Keith. Keith is the baby of the family and the uncle who I've probably spent most of my time with since he lived with my grandparents when I was little...anyways. Keith is currently on an EPIC adventure riding his bike across the country.

He started in San Francisco and is now currently in Kansas. Just recently my grandpa drove out to meet Keith and haul his gear for him so he could tear it up in the mountains in Colorado. His end goal is to meet all of our family out on the beach in North Carolina. I'm just as stoked to see him finish this bike ride as I am to be at the tour for the finish! (& that's srsly saying somethin'!)

If you'd like to check out Keith's biking adventure you can click here.

Here are a couple of pictures I pulled from his website:

He described this picture as a 'rough day'

Keith & Grandpa 'Big' Don

Big Don keepin' an eye on Keith.

Bring on the bicycles folks, this is just the beginning!

x, ash

Used to Be

2010-06-28T23:58:00.000-04:00

The other day my bff Alex tweeted something about how much she'd changed in the past year and how sometimes she loved it and other times she wished everything would go back to the way it was.

I think about how much I've changed since high school every day. How I look different, how my beliefs are different, how I got to from there to here.

In high school I was a naive child. My parents did a really good job of sheltering me, raising me in middle class settings where I never wanted for anything, for teaching me right from wrong and about the gloriousness that is Jesus.

Then when I got to college I just wanted to be different. I was so, so sick of everyone always saying I was the good girl. I was tired of being that token 'good' person to all of my friends antics. [looking back I realize being the good girl really is the best way to go, I don't regret my choices, I just learned the hard way]

In college, I eventually became a horrible person. It wasn't above me to do things that I knew would hurt my best friends or my sorority sisters, intentionally. My behavior was disgusting. I lived in the same town as my parents yet I would go weeks without seeing them. In avoiding my parents I let down my younger sisters because I missed a lot of their high school, especially baby sis. At one point, when it got so bad, I wanted to quit school, leave town and never come back. I distinctly remember being curled up in a ball crying on my bathroom floor having this conversation with my mother. Eventually, I pulled it together enough to graduate [with honors, I some how managed that despite my lackluster attendance] and get a job out of town, out of the state, where I knew no one.

Leaving home was so I could start new, so I could find the person that I wanted to be as a grown up. It was [and continues to be] very difficult. I spent 22 years in my hometown [my small hometown] so moving on by myself has been an experience. I've learned a lot about why I acted the way I did in college and tried to move on from those experiences and become better. But lately, I've noticed that I hurt a lot of people in my behavior. My actions didn't just affect me, but my friends and my family.

Everyday I'm thankful for how I've changed, how I've grown and the person I'm becoming. I'm not the girl I was in college and I don't ever wish to go back to her, but I'm glad I had the experiences and that I'm learning from them.

To my friends that I hurt, I'm so sorry. You were [and continue to be] some of the most important people in my life that I love endlessly. Thank you for loving me back, in spite of it all.

x, ash

p.s. image via

p.p.s & yes, this is one of those times where i blog about what i'm feeling, more for me than you. just love me through it. & yes i'm kind of vague, it is intentional

Sunday Inspiration

2010-06-27T15:25:00.000-04:00

via

x, ash

Wish List

2010-06-22T17:41:00.000-04:00

I know, I've been terrible at blogging lately. This normally happens when I've

A1. Been living or

B2. Locked in a ~~dungeon~~ conference room without windows.

Lately it's been a mix of both.

However, today I have a bit of a Wish List for you.

This pretty print from Elsie (a beautiful mess) over at Red Velvet Art.

I love it so much. I'm pretty sure I need it for my art wall.

This clutch (or really anything) by CleverBetty

(who also happens to be one of my childhood friends whom I've reconnected with lately via blog land~ love!)

This shirt from Dressing on the Side...

it will go well with this shirt, this shirt & this shirt that I already own from them!

What is on your wish list right now? Leave links in the comments or do your own wish list!!

xo, ash

Sunday Inspiration: Lar-Centric Edition

2010-06-20T02:15:00.001-04:00

Happy Birthday Lar!

I know we've only known each other a short while, but I can't imagine you not being a part of my life.

I knew we were life long friends when you hugged me after I'd spent four hours on an airplane sick, then joined a wine club with me and sealed the deal with spark plugs and moustache rings.

I can't wait for the rest of the adventures you, Alex and I are going to embark on during our friendship.

xo, ash

Little Letters

2010-06-08T00:13:00.000-04:00

So, I feel like I've been really disconnected from this little blog of mine...so what better way to catch all of you up than to do Little Letters? [i'm a genius, obvi...!]

Dear Amazon,

Stop selling such great stuff...I can't stay away...In fact, I think we are going to have to take a break. I mean really, it's me, not you. Hopefully we can be friends in the future.

Love, Addicted to Books

[recent purchases: skinny italian, naturally thin, 1001 useful french words, french phrases, etc]

Dear Busy Bee Lauren,

I can't wait to meet you & the tedward in LA. Bear hugs & fan girling will occur. Along with sushi & perhaps some sprinkles cupcakes.

Love, your ibff almost real life bff

Dear Bed,

I'm sorry I haven't been sleeping very often. I love you. Again, it's me, not you. Let's make up really soon. I miss my sleep.

Love, Raccoon Eyes

Dear Eclipse,

Harry Potter & the Deathly Hallows is going to be better. Sorry.

Kinda.

Love, HP4Eva

Dear Housewives of New Jersey,

Why do I love you so much?! I just can't help myself. You are so much better than Jersey Shore (although GTL -- pretty genius). Do you think Albie & I could date? Let's work on that. Also, don't tell the New York housewives, but I like you better...shhhhhhh!

Love, Love, Love a non-housewife

Dear Cancer,

I still effing hate you.

Ashton

Dear Lance Armstrong,

Please, please, please can we meet while we are in France in July? Do you think you could also maybe win the Tour de France? I promise not to chase you as you ride by on your bike if you take a picture with me! Viva Lance!

Love, Your Biggest Fan

Dear Friends,

Clickty on these links (fa rizzle)

Little Reminders of Love: Quote of the Week
Clever Betty : Etsy Shop for amazing handmade goods
Marion by Natalie : She's going places!
Bon Iver : Lovvvvvve them
& this one because you are pretty!

Happy rest of the week lovies!

xx, ash

Sunday Inspiration

2010-06-06T07:00:00.001-04:00

I love the real you.

x, ash

Cake Makes Everything Better

2010-06-02T21:41:00.000-04:00

Can we all get together and make this cake

& drink punch

& be merry?

It would be so much better than the leak & mold that are currently causing me apartment troubles. 

& just the general cloudy disposition I am in.

x, ash

p.s. i'll start posting regularly again, i've missed you all & this little blog of mine.

Baby's Growing Up

2010-05-18T15:45:00.000-04:00

Text from baby sister today: New Employee of St. Lukes :)

Translated: Baby sister is a real life grown up nurse.

I couldn't be more proud of her.

x, ash

Champions

2010-05-17T21:20:00.001-04:00

To my dad and his golf team...

May your drives be long & straight.

May your putts be on sunk on the first shot.

& most of all, may you have fun.

Good luck at State!

Sunday Inspiration

2010-05-16T20:11:00.000-04:00

This week loves, be glittertastic.

x, ash

p.s. for ellen, the original of glittertastic

Happy Cinco De Mayo!!

2010-05-05T11:29:00.000-04:00

In an attempt to act more young & free

(like my friend The Daughter suggested here -- not that drinking margs was probably what she meant...)

I'm going to celebrate Cinco de Mayo tonight with a nice tasty margarita with friends.

A holiday is a holiday right?

& hey, I'm going to be in Mexico in 3 days...this just seems like good preparation!

May you have a happy Cinco de Mayo as well!

x, ash

For My Godmama

2010-05-04T10:42:00.000-04:00

Love you Karebear.

x, ash

p.s. image taken from One in a Million, a great inspirational blog.

Sunday Inspiration

2010-05-02T20:22:00.000-04:00

because they might be doing something ridiculous like this...

(yes...that is baby sis...racing the parentals, who happen to be on a tandem bike...)

(please feel free to be second-hand embarrassed)

x, ash

p.s. really, call your folks. tell them you love them.

Happy Birthday Blog!

2010-04-30T07:00:00.002-04:00

Today is the first birthday of Ashton Dene's Antics. Which I find crazy...how fast a year goes by.

I remember when I had one follower...and now I have 50something.

I've made great friends from this little blog of mine.

I took a fabulous vacation with some of my blog friends.

I've read great books, listened to good music, become addicted to Lost, found great desserts to bake...all from this little blog of mine.

& while things have been scary & fuzzy & out of my control I have been enveloped in love from those of you that know me from this blog and this blog alone.

Thanks for this year.

Happy Birthday Blog.

x, ash

Ask Away!

2010-04-27T14:42:00.002-04:00

Ask me anything http://formspring.me/ashtondene

You know you have questions!

Sunday Inspiration

2010-04-25T15:02:00.000-04:00

Doing My Part

2010-04-22T08:09:00.000-04:00

So today is Earth Day

& I just wanted to let all of you know, that I'm doing my part.

Instead of heading to home in my luxurious private jet,

I'm flying commerical, coach even!

So make sure you do something heroic today so my efforts aren't in vain.

x, ash

P.S. if there was ever a sarcasm font it would be necessary for the witty banter of this post.

P.P.S. I don't have a private jet, let alone a luxurious one at that.

P.P.P.S. I really do have to fly coach today, lammmmmme

Summing It Up

2010-04-22T00:19:00.000-04:00

I love this. It speaks to me. & of me.

x, ash

Father Knows Best

2010-04-19T20:26:00.000-04:00

So, I got this email from my dad at work today. It made me cry. & reminded me what great parents I have. I'm feeling kind of like sharing today, so here is the email, in its entirety.

So, not such a great weekend…

Well, we really love you and you are amazing…..

Relationships take effort and you have to make them happen even when you don’t want to….

So, you have to get connected outside of work. Go to church, House church, small group…… join a dance class… art class….. go hang out at the ice cream   store   become a docent at the art museum…… join a liberal environmental watchdog group……but you gotta do it.

Your amazing, really…. So spread it around a little bit…..

But I know it’s hard, really hard..

And I love you.

You know you just got to do it.

Dad.

I'm so blessed.

x, ash

2010-04-19T00:04:00.000-04:00

Here Comes A Regular

2010-04-15T18:26:00.000-04:00

Sometimes life is funny.

Funny like, I'm considered a regular at this particular sushi restaurant...in Manhattan Beach, California.

I live in Dayton. I'm a regular at a restaurant in California. Yes, this is true.

& I love going there with my co-workers while we are in town. The waiters greet us with big smiles and our drinks without asking.

Sushi night almost always involves laughing until our sides hurt or liquids come out of our mouths. Involves Japanese beer and sake and sending shots to the chef's.

One time sushi night involved wasabai being snorted up someone's nose (no, not mine).

One time sushi night was super expensive as the girls lost a bet and had to pay for the boys. [like expensive, expensive].

Having the comfort of home, away from home, that is my favorite thing about sushi night.

x, ash

Wise Words

2010-04-15T12:12:00.002-04:00

x, ash

Coping Mechanisms

2010-04-14T10:50:00.000-04:00

You know what I have realized lately?

I have no idea how to cope or deal with my feelings. I don't know how to feel better. How to make everything go away.

You see, in college if I ever had a bad day, hated school, got in a fight with my parents, the list goes on... I went to the bar. & I didn't just have one or two drinks. Nope, not me. Because apparently I can't do anything just half way. So I would often find myself black out drunk making a fool of myself while my friends watched after me. [& honestly, this is how almost all of my friends dealt with issues. so it never really occurred to me that this wasn't healthy, or that this was just me avoiding my problems]

Well, I have now seen the error of my ways and I no longer drink myself into oblivion. But I have struggled with how to deal with my emotions.

Nothing makes it feel better.

Last night I needed to let some stuff go. Let some stuff out.

So I went jogging. & you know what? It felt good. Really good.

So here is to learning new [healthier ways] to dealing with my emotions.

How do you cope? Lord knows I need more than one way.

x, ash

p.s. the blog may have a bit of an emo feel along with the inspiration and happy, just love me through it ok?

Sunday Inspiration

2010-04-11T13:58:00.000-04:00

I love all of you. Have a great week.

x.

A Single Moment

2010-04-09T22:31:00.000-04:00

As I was making my way home today, I had a moment.

I was on my second flight for the day.

I had an aisle seat [i prefer the window]

The lady in the window seat spilled her milkshake [on my seat]

Finally we were on our way [then we started to fall]

It was terrifying [& i fly a lot]

I prayed [like i always do in this situation]

I realized I'd spent the whole day hating myself [i promised not to do this again]

I'm so thankful for that single, terrifying moment.

x, ash

Best. Ever.

2010-04-07T12:46:00.001-04:00

I'm so lucky to have some of the best friends in the world. They are REAL superheroes.

x, ash