I began blogging in 2012 as an assignment from a college creative writing course. What was meant to last a semester became a lifeline through various moments of my life, all captured throughout the posts of, what was, Uncorking Peonies. As any early 20-something, those early posts were ripe with self-doubt, heartache, and attempts to find clarity from the mess of inexperience and immaturity.
My blogging then shifted from the ranting of a lonely, confused young woman to posts focused on lifestyle. Many of my long-time readers walked through the milestones of my late-20s with me. Those milestones included:
- Red flags I missed while dating,
- Meeting my husband and wedding planning,
- Home renovation projects,
- Struggles with infertility and my pregnancy journey.
Unintentionally, I took a long hiatus from this blog in April 2023 when I gave birth to my first son.
Life has not slowed, but I’ve been feeling that itch to begin writing again. So as of today, I am back! And what an absolute pleasure it is to type that sentence.
I’m returning to this blog with new intentions. What once was a personal blog without focus now has a new purpose: to provide space for my love of words through both reading and writing. Here, I intend to share book recommendations, host new creative writings, and (hopefully) build a community of other word-lovers. So I welcome you to my blog, @wordsandash.
“That’s nice and all, but who are you?”
My name is Ashley. I am married to Grant and have the sweetest little boys in the world, Dean and Wyatt. I am a Michigan native. I enjoy reading and listening to books (the only reason I am able to finish a novel nowadays), lifting weights, true crime podcasts, and exploring outdoors with my family.
Life looks a lot different than before my hiatus, but I continue to view it through the lens of God’s constant love and grace. I also like to throw a little magic and optimism into my mindset.
I hope to connect with you as we journey through life together. Please do not hesitate to reach out — I am excited to meet you!
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