Happenings......

There has been a lot going on in the world of Ashleigh...I am in progress for finishing my Early Childhood Development classes so I can work in a preschool. My dad has been down and I really miss spending time with him. He always listens and he is the best dad in the whole world...Reed is fully potty trained now so it is a lot more work people...you think it would be easy...no way. I have to carry around extra potties where ever I go because I hate public bathrooms. And no more minky (pasci) his mood has changed a lot and he fights me going to bed but I'm glad I stopped being lazy and did it. He actually lost it and I just asked him if he wanted to sleep like a big boy with no minkys and he said yes. And I think he was really tired. Anyway, I have a few new pictures and some videos to post...

This is Reed on his first Valentine's day date...he gave her a rose...so cute.

We have had a lot of Disneyland trips some with my dad and some without...He likes the outdoor rides..

Reed loves this book...and when you finish reading he reads it back to you...He is getting really good at that..It encourages early reading.

Daddy and son time..Reed misses daddy everytime he goes to work..its so cute the bond they have. I'm glad that I got him for 2 years and now he has a close relationship with Myles..Its so cute.

This is from my sisters cheer competition at Disneyland. She did so good, I was proud. Reed and my sister are like brother and sister and fight like it too...Reed ate up all my sisters friends and he made them buy him an ice cream...they love him.

Invisible Mom...

This really speaks to me today you have to read it....

Invisible Mother......
It all began to make sense, the blank stares, the lack of response, the way one of the kids will walk into the room while I'm on the phone and ask me a question. Inside I'm thinking, 'Can't you see I'm on the phone?' Obviously, not. No one can see if I'm on the phone, or cooking, or sweeping the floor, or even standing on my head in the corner, because no one can see me at all. I'm invisible. The invisible Mom. Some days I am only a pair of hands, nothing more: Can you fix this? Can you tie this? Can you open this? Some days I'm not a pair of hands; I'm not even a human being. I'm a clock to ask, 'What time is it?' I'm a satellite guide to answer, 'What number is the Disney Channel?' I'm a car to order, 'Right around 5:30, please.' I was certain that these were the hands that once held books and the eyes that studied history and the mind that graduated sum a cum laude - but now they had disappeared into the peanut butter, never to be seen again. She's going; she's going; she is gone! One night, a group of us were having dinner, celebrating the return of a friend from England .. Janice had just gotten back from a fabulous trip, and she was going on and on about the hotel she stayed in. I was sitting there, looking around at the others all put together so well. It was hard not to compare and feel sorry for myself. I was feeling pretty pathetic, when Janice turned to me with a beautifully wrapped package, and said, 'I brought you this.' It was a book on the great cathedrals of Europe . I wasn't exactly sure why she'd given it to me until I read her inscription: 'To Charlotte , with admiration for the greatness of what you are building when no one sees.' In the days ahead I would read - no, devour - the book. And I would discover what would become for me, four life-changing truths,=2 0 after which I could pattern my work: No one can say who built the great cathedrals - we have no record of their names. These builders gave their whole lives for a work they would never see finished. They made great sacrifices and expected no credit. The passion of their building was fueled by their faith that the eyes of God saw everything. A legendary story in the book told of a rich man who came to visit the cathedral while it was being built, and he saw a workman carving a tiny bird on the inside of a beam. He was puzzled and asked the man, 'Why are you spending so much time carving that bird into a beam that will be covered by the roof? No one will ever see it.' And the workman replied, 'Because God sees.' I closed the book, feeling the missing piece fall into place. It was almost as if I heard God whispering to me, 'I see you, Charlotte. I see the sacrifices you make every day, even when no one around you does. No act of kindness you've done, no sequin you've sewn on, no cupcake you've baked, is too small for me to notice and smile over. You are building a great cathedral, but you can't see right now what it will become.' At times, my invisibility feels like an affliction. But it is not a disease that is erasing my life. It is the cure for the disease of my own self-centeredness. It is the antidote to my strong, stubborn pride. I keep the right perspective when I see myself as a great builder. As one of the people who show up at a job that they will never see finished, to work on something that their name will never be on. The writer of the book went so far as to say that no cathedrals could ever be built in our lifetime because there are so few people willing to sacrifice to that degree. When I really think about it, I don't want my son to tell the friend he's bringing home from college for Thanksgiving, 'My Mom gets up at 4 in the morning and bakes homemade pies, and then she hand bastes a turkey for three hours and presses all the linens for the tab le.' That would mean I'd built a shrine or a monument to myself. I just want him to want to come home. And then, if there is anything more to say to his friend, to add, 'you're gonna love it there.' As mothers, we are building great cathedrals. We cannot be seen if we're doing it right. And one day, it is very possible that the world will marvel, not only at what we have built, but at the beauty that has been added to the world by the sacrifices of invisible women.

Pet Peeves

So the other day we took Reed to the park for some good fun. Now, I usually hate going to the park because EVERY time we got he gets some sort of sickness and I am awake till 3 with him. Now anyone with a brain would know that when your kid is sick he stays inside, but apparently some people have a hard time comprehending that..So we were there playing and this dad brings his sons who is coughing and has snot running down his face and he is touching every toy and the dad just stands there..then he comes over to Reed and starts to play. I washed Reed's hand but now he has a fever and a runny nose. It really pissed me off because you would think out of common coutsey they would leave the kid at home and not infect other poor souls but I was wrong. So please, if you have a child who is sick don't bring them to the park and if you HAVE to at least wipe his dang nose. Okay I'm done....for now

Grandma & Grandpa

Today was the one year anniversary of my grandma's passing. And my dad called me today saying that my grandpa passed away. He loved her so much, he talked about her everyday and missed her. They were married for 60 years. They both grew up in Scotland and then came here after the war. I miss them both dearly. They were part of my soul and I feel like its empty there. they taught me so much about love and life and how never to waste a single second of your life because it goes so quickly. I never got to thank him for all of those memories and talks we have had. I have such a bad way of mourning, especially when its someone I love like my own mom and dad. I was closer to them than my own parents. Each day that passes I will appreciate the life I have now.

Updates...

Well Reed's 2nd birthday came and went. I have been so busy my life is constantly going. I am still planning or wedding for January, planning a baby shower for the beginning of december and still trying to pass all my classes and trying to potty train. We also all got the stomach flu which was awful. Halloween we went to a concert and saw Rise Against. It was a lot of fun. I have never had so much fun. Myles and I are trying to have some what of a social life. I really enjoy hanging out with everyone, and its nice to catch up since high school. I will post a few pictures from Reed's birthday and the concert...

Reed loves fire trucks and we saw one so I wanted to take a picture.

He loved the bounce house.

He loves monster trucks so that was the theme for his party. He had so much fun.

I loved the cake..It was from vons..

we set it up before he woke up so he would be surprised. it's one of his favorite things to play with..he has that iminagtion stage goin on.

New Obsession...

I love this show. I have started with the first season and it is awesome. you realize how women and men dealt with their lives. It's on AMC and its up for a lot of emmy's. check it out.

Reed update..

Heres some new pictures of Reed..

In Myles' cub scout hat..

Saggin' the pants just like daddy use to when he was younger..

This must be a toddler obsession, because he lines up all this trucks and he is really particular about them. He also likes all the doors to be shut in the kitchen..its so funny how they have these wierd quirks. Its very cute though

New Nephew...

So on August 23rd Myles and I got our firt nephew. I am so excited. I can't wait for Reed to have a little buddy to play with. He is the cutest baby in the whole world. I can't wait to spoil him and babysit. I love to watch other kids..Its fun, but chaotic..like my life always is. Anyway, I want to hang out with his sister more often than we usually do because she is the coolest and we get along. She has been so good to Myles and I, she has always been there for us and supported us and spoiled Reed too..So new beginnings are so exciting..

Pictures of Carmel..

The weather was foggy and overcast..just how I love it. Its been so hot in los angeles that it was a nice change of scenery for me. Aren't they so cute. Those two play so good together. Reed loves her to pieces.

Updates.....

So for the past week I have been in Carmel with my friend and her family. I had the best time. The weather was beautful foggy and cloudy, no heat I love it. Reed had so much fun until the 6 hour drive home. He decided to whine and cry but I guess being strapped in a car seat for 6 hours would make me crabby too.
Myles sister had her baby boy...Little Neil was 6lbs. 7oz. such a cute baby. Congrats Lindz, we are so proud of you. She just had him on saturday so we have been spending time with her at the hospital. I will post pictures later. Myles was so excited to be an uncle for the first time..He is such a natural with babies. Anyway, I am going back to the hospital soon...much peace and love for the week

I've been tagged...

Thanks Brooke I think these are soo much fun....

A- Attached or Single: Attached
B- Best Friends- Jenn and my sister
C- Cake or Pie- I love both but ill say cake
D- day of choice- Friday because movie nights and popcorn begin
E- Essential Item- My wallet and the emergency kit i keep in the car- diapers, clothes, e.t.c
F- Favorite Color- Pink or Tiffany Blue
G- Gummy Bear or Worms- Gummy Bears for sure
H- Hometown- Toluca Lake CA
I- Indulgence- Magazines and Dr.Pepper and Carmel Apples
J- January or July- I like January for winter
K- Kids- Reed almost 2
L- Life Incomplete Without- Myles, Reed and family and friends
M- Marriage Date- Ahh don't even get me started. we are going to school so it might be spring break instead of Jnauary and at the beach in January we would freeze our tushes off.
N- Number of Siblings- 1 sister and 1 sister-in-law to be who I love she is awesome and having a baby soon..
O- Oranges or Apples- Apples especially carmel and chocolate ones
P- Phobias or Fears- spiders, being alone in the dark, dieing in a tragic death
Q- Quotes- I have a lot but I really love bible quotes- " Be happy while your're living for your're a long time dead" or "Make most of your life because you never get a second chance"
R- Radio Station- 106.7 KROQ
S- Season- Winter
T- Tag three friends- no one I know blogs besides Brooke
U- unkown fact about me- I sleep with my mouth open and drool on occassion, I hate clowns and I love playing card games.
V- Very Favorite Store- Hollister, Forever 21, H&M, Urban Outfitters(some of their stuff is ugly), Pac Sun and Val Surf
W- Worst Habit- leaving my drawers open says Myles.
X- X-ray or ultrasound- Ultrasound- The first time I saw Reed I cried and I knew that I would love him forever no matter what anyone thought or said.
Y- Your Favorite Food- Italian and American- I love chicken caccitori
Z- Zodiac- taurus can't you tell?

Decision Time...

So its that time again I need your input. And those of you who I know read this blog, but don't comment you can call me. Okay so Reed's 2nd birthday is coming up and he lovessss Fire Trucks and Dirt Bikes..I'm so conflicted. He loves them both and I want to do something that he likes that this particular moment. Gosh, girls are so easy, do a princess theme or cowgirl. Boys are so much harder for me because I never grew up with them or babysat, so this is a whole new world for me- Boy Land. Any advice would be great. Peace and Love Ash

Brain Fried...

This is how I am feeling right now. I am planning this wedding by myself. It is taking it's toll on me and my brain. I can't remember playdates or phone numbers its horrible. All that is on my mind is this- "gotta find vendors, gotta do the favors, gotta find this or that". I definitly need a vaca. That is why we are going to palm springs again on thrusday. I am soo excited I need this break but here's a little bit of what I've decided so far....I'm having the ceremony at the santa barbara court house..its actually really pretty you can see the beach. Then I was gonna have the reception at the san ysidro ranch. I am doing tea favors for it will be january at the beach haha I wish it were the mountains but its too expensive. I set up my registry already at Macys, Bed Bath and Beyond and Crate and Barrel. I can't wait till this whole process is over. Anyway, Im off to bed..

Paradise Cove..

So today it was my mom's b-day so we headed over to Paradise Cove in Malibu. I love this place. Its a private beach with a really great restaurant. Reed loved it and had so much fun. I took a lot of great pictures.

My mom's such a diva, but I love her.

I love this picture except Reed is making a stinky face.

This is sooo cute...daddy and me!! don't they look alike?

Mommy and me..I know its sideways, but do we look alike?

We had a fun day. I will try to upload part 2 of our fun tomorrow...peace and love

About me....

Here are some things you may or may not know about me...

1. I am very sensitive. I will cry at the wind.

2.I am very stubborn. I will stick by what I beleieve no matter if it kills me.

3. I hate change.

4.I have a serious weight issue. I am underweight and everyone tells me I look great..God are they not my friends or what.

5. I hate people who judge when its not their place.

6. I will always be there for friends and family no matter what time of day or what I'm doing.

7. I secretly want to be in the F.B.I. or a C.S.I. That would be cool.

8. I love kids and I want like 10. sorry mom and dad..but yes I would love a big family if we could afford it.

9. I cannot sleep alone..and if Iam alone I stay awake until my eyes hurt and then I fall asleep.

10. I hade my emotions too well..my mom gave me this one. If I were a poker player then I would win.

I'm sure theres more good and bad ones to add...

Nothing Exciting

So nothing new has happened this weekend..except for ahh there was a huge earthquake today in Los Angeles...It was a 5.4 or something..I was home alone with my sister and all of a sudden out of no where it started shaking and it got worse but only lasted for a minute, we quickly ran outside with no telephone poles around..I got so scared because 1.I wasn't prepared 2. Reed was with me (when you have a child you know and a major disaster occurs you freak) 3. I was by myslef without Myles. Ive been through them before but I was more scared this time because I had a lot to protect. Well after I had a heart attack..not literally. Next time I hope I'm more prepared and Myles teaches me his major disaster and what to do..he's learning that in school right as this happened...Well I hope everyone is okay and no one got hurt..Peace and Love

Wedding Dresses...

Help me pick a dress....

#1- from Winnie Couture

#2- from jim hjelm

or #3- also from jim hjelm

Summer Sounds at the Hollywood Bowl.....

Sorry for the picture, its a little blurry. This morning we went to the Hollywood Bowl for a kids show. It was sooo much fun, he actually sat and danced and behaved. Its a lot of interaction so it was fun for him to watch. This week they did music from Zimbabwe..And did a play. My mom use to take me when I was little and I loved it. I didn't take any pictures but next time I go I will...

Career Choices..

So, I have been thinking a lot lately of what am I going to do and what do I want to do?Here are my 3 choices..1. makeup 2. working with children in preschool 3. being a stay-at-home mom. Now my friend Jenn has awesome hookup with makeup jobs, weddings, music videos or print ads, I would have to take a class but its really short. I could make my own hours and wages which is good with having kids. Or I could finish my A.A in Child Development and work in preschools with Reed and I would get good hours and I love children. Or I could wait and see how everything goes and be content at raising children. I feel so lost when I start to think about this, but I have to make a decision soon. I wish I could work from home, but I have to find something works. I could get back into arbonne and see how it goes, but that is another option. Ugh, hopefully it will work itself out soon...

Random Pictures...

Here are some random pictures of Reed from the past week..

We went to the park for a little fun..

Reed and I saw a mommy movie on Monday..We saw Mamma Mia!! It was actually really cute and the kids were dancing and actually behaving.

So I go to change Reed's diaper and I find this in the wipes..half eaten grapes from God knows when..Ewwww I love how kids hide things and leave you with little presents.

Preschool Woes...

So a mom at the park asked me about some preschools in the area that I knew of. I told her my frustrations with preschools and how I am not excited for him to go..Every preschool I went to made me feel like I was back in high school..The people there were 1. not helpful 2. ignored me because I was a teen mom 3. Were rude to me because I was a teen mom. I told her about one I really liked. First Christian, they treated me like everyone else and were really friendly. I knew that I had found "the one"..The lady was so nice to Reed and I and I knew that I wanted him to go to school there. Preschool is not something I look forward to, with all those who can be a better mom thing but I hope that Reed learns and makes new friends.

Life in the E.R

So yesterday Myles did his training in the E.R at St. Joe's. He got home around 11:30. He was so energized still he kept me awake talking about what happened and how much he really liked it. One person died but of old age, but still I know every death is hard to deal with. I am so excited for him and proud as hell. I know that he would make a great emergency tech. We are in the talks about wedding dates...this is what I have come up with..Jan 17th or 24th...Feb. 21st or 28th and finally mar. 14th or 28th...tell me what you think in the comments page...I am horrible at making decisions so any input would be so helpful...I love you all sorry no pictures my camera needs to be charged...

Birthday Fun!!!!

Reed was so cute he took the juice and sat by himself in the little garden they had..



Sugar High...




Birthday Wishes...



Reed ate so much...





Having too much fun in the pool...

Ro, we had so much fun at your party..You guys grow up way to fast.. I love you!!!

Happy Birthday Pam!!!!!!!!!!!

So this post is for Myles mom..You are such an awesome grandma and we love you soo much. I know that you will teach Reed all of the important things and Im so excited that Reed can have that oppertunity. You have always been there for Myles and I and we know that family is the most important part of our life. Without you we would be lost and alone. And we are also excited for the next baby boy coming in our life. So I hope you have a good one and I'll be seeing you soon..love ashleigh myles and reed

Teen Pregnancy Thoughts...

I can't help avoiding this topic because it applies to me and I have heard so much that I have to voice my opinion on the matter. While I do think that teen pregnancy is okay, I really don't agree with abortion. I have known so many girls who get abortions on the weekends like it is no big deal..Its sickening to see how many girls take the easy way out..I think that Jamie did a good thing by keeping it. But I also think that God never makes a mistake he knows exactly your plan and you have to take the situation with a positive attitude and not a negative one. Also, I am so sick of other moms looking at me like another teen mom, like I have no idea what I'm doing. I can't tell you the number of times I get dirty looks or prejudice talks behind my back because I'm young. I think a lot of young moms are good, but the ones who aren't ruin it for us. I think it depends on the person. I honestly believe that being a mom is my God given gift. I am not a perfect mom and I fail many times but the love I have for my son rises above everything. I would want him to not grow up thinking he was a mistake and other people thought we should have an abortion. What kind of person would say, "Hey, I wanted you dead". That to me is selfish. I have lost many people in my life because I stuck by what I believed was right. What I think the teens of today should do is visit teen moms and see how hard it is I guarentee that a baby is the best form of birth control. Babies are so much work and it is a lifelong committment to your child. I am not condoning teen pregnancy or making it justifable. I am telling My Story and my opinion about me.