HAYDEN and HUCK'S vroom vroom BIRTHDAY
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From the DIY mini-balloon arch (it’s harder than you think) to the McQueen-themed, sharing all the details of the boys’ joint birthday party.
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Stripes. Sunshine. And a Sprinkle.
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Forgive my cheesy titles. Sometimes I sound like I'm a kindergarten teacher. Oh well... The "s" theme in the title is appropriate. I have to share some of my favorite striped fashion for the season (and I WAS in the sunshine at my girlfriend Ali Fedotowsky's sprinkle for her second baby!).
I'll start by saying Ali's shower was adorable with a "blue jean baby boy" theme. If you followed along on the stories, you saw the gorgeous flowers and place settings. Plus, it was kinda cloudy the day before, so the sun literally came out and shined on Baby Manno for the sprinkle. Awww. I'm sure Ali will share more on her blog soon, too. I'll let you know.
I wanted to wear something theme-oriented, but also something that I just felt comfortable in, too. I picked this blue and white striped fit and flare dress. The exact one is sold out now, so I linked a similar dress in a different shade of blue. For a reference point, I'm in a size 2 in this dress. It's not the most affordable piece I've worn, but I know I'll wear it a lot. This is one of those dresses that works in your 20s and even in your 60s. I'm not kidding! There's always a cute white cardigan to add (the one highlighted is $20!- white or blue)... If you're looking for something that would work for day events or early evening-- bridal showers, baby showers, concerts, graduations, summer parties, etc.... I just love the classic combination of blue and white.
My girlfriend Willa Ford also had on stripes. I must say, she was the sexier version of stripes! And also on point with the trends right now. I'm loving the cut out, bit of skin here and there.
And of course, Ali looked beautiful. And no, she really doesn't have a name yet for Baby Manno. But, we all chimed in! And Miss Molly danced out on the beach. What a doll. She and Hayden are slightly obsessed with each other. And I'm slightly obsessed with Ali's dress! I found the the print in a few other styles, too... take a peek below.
I walked Oscar when I returned home. Joel snapped this picture kinda tongue-and-cheek making fun of me. But, I'm glad because it shows my favorite red flats. I actually wore them the day before, too. You've probably heard me talk about Rothy's. I love that I can wear them to the beach, then wash them when I get home (I air dry them afterward, but you can also "fluff" on delicate).
I'm not quite done with this post, but I'm gonna publish it to go up for now anyway. I have a few more things to add (like I'm kinda into Willa's sunglasses... anyone else wanna know how to get a pair!?)... so stay tuned, I'll return later. Gotta few appointments today. xoxo
Daytime Girlfriends
/All photos by Holly Brown @hollymbp for Ographr.com
Do you guys remember the Facebook live with Joel and an Awair expert? It was my first live video like that and I didn't know how the live video all worked, but it was fun!! I loved seeing all your comments and questions. Thank you!
All photos: Holly Brown for @Ographr
After the live video, I hosted some girlfriends with GoodCarmaStudio for good food (thanks to Lemonade), drinks and conversation. We even had a bling counter compliments of EmmaJCo. We chatted and learned how a little "awairness" can contribute to cleaner air for us and our children. I was also grateful that we brought in the Creative Coalition. I admire how they're fighting for arts in our children's daily lives. Since Huck started kindergarten in an excellent public school, I'm able to see their hard work come to fruition. I want every child in every school across the country to get the same opportunities. Some of you already saw the instastory on the hair tie bracelet by Maria Shireen. A portion of the proceeds are going toward the Creative Coalition. I'm happy to support people that are giving back! Some of you already have your bracelets. Know you helped a wonderful organization keep going!! Thanks, US Weekly for spreading the word.
Also, thank you to CelebrityBabyScoop for covering our day, too.
So--- now about the girlie day. I got to visit with friends I've known and worked with back when I was a teenager! I remember the scenes I was doing with Jennifer Garies and Sharon Case... I never had scenes with Tamara Clatterbuck (did I?), but we were friends. I can't help but smile when I think about it all. Especially my sister on Y&R, Sabryn Genet. Time seems to just fly by us. And I adore my B&B family (which also includes Jen!). Jacqueline Wood and Kelly Kruger are two ladies I could hang out with all day everyday.
Sharon was the first to arrive (which doesn't surprise me... she was usually the first on set, too) so, we got a chance to catch up. I admire that habit of hers. I can think of other friends that are like this- early or on time for almost everything.... wanna take a guess who they are?
It's the strange thing about being an actor. You get extremely close to these people on a show. So, these people really feel like family to you. They've seen you at your best and worst and everything in between. Then, business takes you to another project and you don't see each other as much. Luckily, we're all based in Los Angeles. One last little note- isn't it lovely when your worlds come together. I enjoyed seeing Ali and Amy chat with my other girlfriends!
We moved into this house not long ago...I still feel like it's not finished, but realized it doesn't matter if it's all ready or not. What does matter are the memories we are starting to create and this was a special day.
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GIRLFRIENDS and Sunday Casual
/HEY y'all... I was scrolling and posting pictures of recent events when I found this one with my girlfriends Amy and Ali. This photo is from the post HERE about Awair and the Creative Coalition.
I decided to do a separate post about the outfits for those of you that want to know;)
You've already seen me wearing this sweater in my insta stories on instagram. I kinda fell in love with it because it's like a party all by itself. Still subtle, though, not loud. It's on sale at JCrew right now. And due to the fact items have been selling out so fast, I'm adding this link HERE where you can also get the sweater. I'm wearing the same earrings you may have seen me wear recently, too. The jeans are ones I've had for a while and love. They were pricey, but I always feel like they look clean and polished and "hold me in," so to speak. I even wore the maternity version of them while I was pregnant and filming GH.
photos by HollyBrownVisuals.com for @Ographr
I really like Ali's over the knee boots. I've seen her wear them a few times and they look so chic and still comfortable to walk. And this adorably cozy poncho is under $50. I love it. What a great gift for someone in your family or circle of friends.... sister, babysitter? Or, for you! I appreciate gifts that are one size fits all- much easier!
Amy's holiday dress is so sweet on her and very Christmas-y. Eliza J makes the best dresses. We have all worn her designs. I added the earrings above because I think they would work with any of our outfits. I ordered them recently for myself. Merry Christmas to me;)
I was thrilled to have Ali and Amy there--- (You might already follow them on their socials and sites, but if not, click on their name to see their blogs) thanks ladies! Your support means a great deal!
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TWINNING in the $37 Peacoat!!
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Our babies were so little! That's what I think about when I look at this picture below. Molly and Hayden were barely crawling. Now... well, life is mobile! Things have changed! And life goes by so quickly now, too. Some things stay the same...like some of our favorite outfits.
This picture also reminds me of my sister trying to get this Peacoat and it sold out record fast! I got many DMs from you all about that, too. These coats are back and have the most beautiful colors this year as well. When I saw it was back in stock, I had to let you all know asap! Check out the first post (it's WAY more detailed) HERE I wrote about this coat earlier in the year. (And again HERE in this post!) With the large tortoise shell buttons and oversized collar, it's even more in style now. Plus, a lot of the times we are wearing in these photos are back in stock. Scroll down for cliff notes;)
photo: Ashley Burns Photography
PHOTO: Ashley Burns photography
1. Necklace (on Ali- I have this one, too!) 2. Nameplate necklace 3. Bracelet
Happy shopping. xoxox
ps- got your messages about sweaters… a few favorites right now below
A BIRTHDAY CELEBRATION
/I didn't know where to begin with this post because it's hard to comprehend it's been a year already since Hayden was born. But, here we are... celebrating his first birthday with a smash cake and all! Thank you to People and SoapDigest for writing about Hayden's day, but I also wanted to write a bit about it on my own site, too.
My awesome friends at Good Carma Studio hosted the day with us. Ladies, you outdid yourselves. Thank you!! I know the animal theme was part of my baby shower (and then his first nursery!), but we came full circle with a "WILD ONE" jungle theme. It was a jam packed party full of love and fun, bubbles and special touches. We made sure no one left Adam's Garden hungry (thanks to StoneFireGrill---amazing!) and PolkatotsCupcakes!
My favorite part was sharing the day with friends and family. It's always a joy to see others have fun, especially Hayden and Huck having a blast with so many "little" friends at this indoor playground.
I had to combat the post party blues a bit...has anyone else experienced that? So much build up, then it's over! And it goes by so fast... the guest come, the kids play, everyone eats and visits and then you cut the cake! Huck said it best on the way home, "That was the best party. I wish it could last forever." I feel that way so often about moments in time. It's bittersweet to witness our babies starting to become independent. But, there's never a dull moment with the Hayden and Huck, more work coming up and getting situated in a new house. Always more to look forward to right around the corner.
Photo: Linger Photography - Location: Adam's Garden LA (such a bright and cheery indoor space and staff. Clean and lovely- they use only organic cleaning products!) everyone seemed to love the playground:) The staff play with all the kids, too!
Hayden is proud of his milestone chalkboard. It looks like he's telling his brother all about it. Thank you, Kelly Patrice
Sharing some of our favorite photos:
My mom gave Hayden is little birthday outfit he wore, then we changed into Fayfaire's "I'm This Many" birthday t-shirt, which also comes in an adorable pink ruffled version, before we had the smash cake session. I love Fayfaire's mission to pay it forward by donating a onesie to the neonatal unit of Miracle Babies for every purchase sold.
And since we're talking outfits, many of you have messaged asking about my pants and top, so here are the quick details!
Pants (love love) are on sale at Topshop for under $40 with free shipping and returns. And my TOP that I LOVE is under $40, too. It comes in three designs. And nude sandals...
I have to thank all the visitors that come by here and comment and enjoy sharing ideas and thoughts and support. A few of you sent the sweetest gifts and cards for Hayden's birthday. I look forward to sharing pictures in some upcoming posts. And wanted to share one of reader's birthday poem:
One year ago, on this very night Hayden Joel Henricks was born. What a beautiful sight. 7lbs 9oz 21 inches long with love and a heartbeat oh so strong. The world watching as you laugh, learn and grow bringing more joy than you'll ever know. Seeing things through your eyes has been the greatest gift and a big surprise. I can't believe you're turning 1, such an amazing little guy you've bcome. On this very special Birthday may all your dreams come true as everyone comes together to celebrate you. - Leslie McFadden
THANK YOU ALL. XOXO ASHLEY
What Inspires YOU...?
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This is a fun question I was asked today at the Inspiration Awards, Step Up Women Network's biggest event of the year. (Read about 2016's event when I started having contractions with Hayden on the way home!!) It's so easy to respond with a standard answer. But it actually made me think. What DOES inspire me lately? The young girls today from Step Up got up on stage at the Beverly Hilton (where the Golden Globes are held) to speak about what inspires them to grow, graduate from high school, apply and go to college. Many of the girls will be the first generation of their family to graduate high school. The recurring theme is a mentor. Someone to believe in them. So, it was more about WHO inspires them.
The organization honored the show BLACK-ISH today. Tracee Ellis Ross spoke. She said something that inspired me. She was talking about how women don't need to try and compete with the next person or continually prove our self worth with titles or even relationships. I'll never remember it as eloquently as she said it, but it sounded something like this: We are enough. Our worth is not defined by by being in a relationship with something or someone else. We are powerful, intelligent, entertaining people BECAUSE WE ARE.
That little speech inspired me. Because we are. The room fell silent for second.
What inspires you every day? It's a good question I'd like to think about more often. Sometimes it could be as simple as something pretty to wear. Today, one step up girl vividly described what her mentor was wearing the first time she met the women in her office. That inspired her. She wanted to become a lawyer that would wear a beautiful blazer. Other times, inspiration comes from something priceless and intangible, like seeing the world through my son's eyes. What inspires you to be your best self today? Hopefully, we can all figure that out and then use that energy to serve others.
Lately, my inspiration comes from my family. From prayer. And today, the women I was surrounded by at Step Up inspire me.
Learn more about Step Up and to donate, click here!
Scroll down for some shots. And sharing our dress details below. Hope something inspires you;)
The exact dress I'm wearing is still available. I have worn it SO many times since I got it. It comes in 8 or 9 different colors, too. This style of dress fits many different body types well. Ali's dress is just as beautiful in person as it is in this photo. And so flattering. I LOVED it. I want it:)
3. Nude Heels 2. similar bracelet 3. Nude clutch 4. Ali's dangle earrings
Ali Fedotowsky, Tatyana Ali, Beverley Mitchell and Willa Ford.
Thanks for stopping by. And if you feel 'inspired,' comment below! And truly, if you have a Step Up Chapter in your city, check it out!!
xo Ashley
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Love is in the Air! What to Wear to Weddings this season!
/It's wedding season! Late afternoon, sunset weddings are now happening. We just attended a gorgeous one for our friends Ali and Kevin! Congrats to the happy couple!
I for one never know what to wear. In California, we often read "black tie optional" on the invitation. That opens up a wide range of options. If you received an invite with that description, would you think long or tea length? Is short ok? Regardless of the level of dressiness, there are a few questions I ask myself....read on!
1) Am I appropriate? Age-appropriate, length, color, seasonally-appropriate, coverage-wise...For instance, if I expect I might be dancing quite a bit, I don't want to have any wardrobe malfunctions! So, for this last wedding, I opted for this versatile, affordable dress (below, check out how cute it is with a t-shirt and converse underneath!).
2) Am I comfortable? Weddings are usually long. You start on the early side and go into the evening. Your shoes should be able to withstand the night (I brought these stretchy ballet flats to change into when my heels were too much), but I also heard these foldable shoes are wonderful, too. I wore my favorite (investment) closed-toed shoes because my toenails weren't painted (ha!), but if I had made the time, I would have worn open-toed strappy sandals.
3) Do I think I'm gonna wanna enjoy the music? This is definitely something to consider when picking out your dress (and shoes).
4) For HIM? Do you want to coordinate on some level? I don't usually worry about this, but occasionally, it's fun to compliment or have a color scheme.
5) Will it get cold at night or will it be cold inside the venue? I brought a wrap for the evening. We're in such transitional weather here... warm during the day and pretty chilly at night. I like an option like this (and love all the color choices).
6) Bag for essentials? I carried this clutch that turns into a cross body purse. (I also used it HERE for a casual look).
This post and other ideas:
Thanks for checking in today... chime in below with any thoughts! Stay tuned because I have some fun posts planned for the weekend. Happy Pre-St.Patty's Day!! Wear your green tomorrow. xoxo
LOOK THINNER TONIGHT!
/EDITED UPDATE: I wrote this post four years ago, but these little vanity tips still stand the test of time. I might do an updated post soon, cause I’ve learned even more since then.
As we strive to be our best selves, healthier habits are obviously a part of that resolution. That’s wonderful and all, but what about being the best version of yourself IMMEDIATELY? Any shortcuts to look good TONIGHT? Like some of our favorite stars?
I read through the emails via the "contact" section of this site and found that many of ask about camera ready tips and makeup tutorials. On this Emmy Sunday, I started thinking back to events I've attended and what it took to get "red carpet" ready. Hint: it takes a lot for me sometimes;)
After years in makeup trailers, I've had time to pick up some smoke and mirror tricks on looking thinner and feeling more confident. I've also had great mentors in wardrobe and makeup departments that have taught me well. I thank them for all their assistance and patience! Here's my list:
1) WEAR SHAPEWEAR
If you've followed my blog at all, you've heard me discuss my love of "help" with compression undergarments in all stages of my life: pre-pregnancy, pregnancy, postpartum and today. These new discoveries in shapewear are not your grandmother's girdle (if you're too young to remember that word, sorry!). I love a smooth look (like this dress in the picture below). Another great tip is double stick tape to keep clothes in place. You can buy the fancy kind, or literally use double stick tape.
2) SMOOTH YOUR SKIN AND ADD COLOR
Blend in blemishes (veins, stretch marks, cellulite, brown spots) with a great DIY faux tan. A shade darker give the illusion of a leaner body. There's not a reason in the world to not have a little fun and look like you had a vacation (when you were really just binge watching tv!). And prep your face with a hydrating (or find the right one for you) mask prior to make up. I have been using AloisiaBeauty lately. Just ordered their deep hydration mist. And right now, just till TOMORROW, THEY HAVE TWO AMAZING GIVEAWAYS. Check out their instagram page and look for the post that says giveaway. They are giving away a ZIIP beauty (keep reading, I discuss this in further detail below).
Looking back at this HBO event I attended for TRUE BLOOD, I'm reminded how much a spray tan or a DIY bottle tan can help the overall look.
3) WEAR YOUR HAIR OFF YOUR FACE AND UP IN A PONY OR MESSY BUN
This helps take down the roundness in my face if I feel puffy. If you are having any hair loss postpartum, this is an excellent way to camouflage it! I went through a series phase of hair loss with Hayden. If you’re curious about other tips for this phase, lemme know. I also am looking into hair clips, pieces and would be happy to share. I don’t currently use them but want to!!
4) CONTOUR
Create cheek bones that may not actually be that prominent. Take what you have naturally and enhance it. Also, highlight the upper cheeks and tip of the nose (tiny bit, this can get over done very quickly). I also used the Ziip every morning on my last project before filming. It is like getting a lymphatic drainage face massage every morning. My sister said I looked pounds thinner than I did the week before. It’s not cheap, but I believe worth it if you are consistent. I found out about it from very close girlfriends that I trust. I linked it to revolve because they offer a 10% discount if you give your email, so that saves quite a bit!!
5) ELONGATE THE LEG WITH THE SAME SHADE SHOE AS YOUR SKIN COLOR
No matter what color your skin is, if your shoes match your skin tone, it elongates the leg. And perhaps the oldest trick in the book is to add inches with a higher heel. Do both and you've sufficiently tricked the eye and taken off some pounds. If you're looking for a designer heel without the designer prices, check out the RealReal.
6) WEAR ALL ONE HUE FROM TOP TO BOTTOM
Wearing monochromatic colors is one of my favorite techniques to implement! Wearing one hue from top to bottom means you go shopping in your own closet, too! Put together some of your basic items...mix high end pieces with vintage or inexpensive trends and create a great outfit.
My savvy friend Ali recently blogged about an outfit and it wasn't until now that I realized it was nearly all monochromatic! Take a look at the post here . She also implemented my final idea....
7) DRAW ATTENTION TO A SPECIFIC AREA OF THE BODY
Ali wore a necklace that commanded attention, drawing the eye up to the neckline. Use this same technique by showing off your favorite part of your outfit or body. Wear a shorter dress if you love your calves or legs, or show off your shoulders with a sleeveless neckline and some statement earrings.
If you have your own ideas or have questions, we'd like to hear your comments! xoxo
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TWINSIES in different colors ($37 PEACOAT?!) YES, PLEASE.
/I met up with Ali Fedotowsky for coffee to help plan a little Bachelor get-together for tonight. (I know, how lucky am I to get to watch with a former bachelorette?!) Lo and behold, we were wearing the same jacket, just in different colors. I take this as a pretty big compliment because Ali has a fabulously approachable style. I've blogged about this jacket here before (and the jacket sold out), but now that it's back in stock, it's worth mentioning again. I seriously get stopped about this jacket on the street. It's warm and cozy, but still looks sleek with it's clean lines and buttons. I like wearing it buttoned up, or open like Ali is wearing it (and don't you love her coat color? It also comes in black and hunter green).
We both kept our looks simple, but funny enough, both had on our namesake jewelry. My nameplate necklace says HAYDEN on it, and Ali's says MOLLY. Ali usually has a statement piece of jewelry on as well. Today, she is wearing a pretty fabulous necklace -- I might need to borrow this or just get my own here or here. And I wouldn't be a decent blogger if I didn't admit I've asked her several times about her leggings. Every single time, she's wearing these compression leggings. I have my own go-to leggings (that some of you now love, too!), but I might add these compression leggings to my wardrobe, also.
We both tied our looks together with comfy, easy boots. Ali is wearing over-the-knee boots that I know she enjoys wearing often. And in case we might have forgotten, my coffee mug reminds us that we are not regular moms, but totally cool moms;). Yeah, right. Maybe she is!
1. MY JACKET 2. MY BOOTS 3. COFFEE CUP
4. ALI'S JACKET 5. ALI'S LEGGINGS
6. ALI'S BOOTS 7. ALI'S NECKLACE
I didn't get a good photo of the fun, stackable bracelets I'm wearing today, so I pulled a photo from a previous post. My sister wears her "she believed she could, so she did" bracelet all the time. I love the reminder on my wrist to simply believe! And if you have a friend expecting, a great shower gift for a mom-to-be or a new mom (or a new bride!) is this custom "all because two people fell in love" bracelet from The Silver Loft.
So, HAPPY NEW YEAR... and to those of you tuning in for The Bachelor, have fun. Check back tomorrow with some thoughts from our viewing party tonight. #momsnightout! Thanks, hubby! xoxo
Living the Dream? At least according to my t-shirt! Ha!
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Thanks, SoapDigest!
Nov. 20th
I'm adding an addendum to this post. I tried to put those little pants on Hayden today and he has already outgrown them. I look at these pictures (perhaps it's the cloudy day and rain) and I get a little nostalgic. He's not even 6 months yet! I used to secretly chuckle at women that cried when their kid went to pre-school for the first time... but here I am already getting choked up that he's almost 6 months. I just posted an instagram story pic of him sitting next to me while I'm working. He seems so big in his big boy chair. I guess this is a reminder to take it all in everyday. I'm grateful to have such great friends going through a similar journey, too. Hope you all had a great weekend. xo
Nov. 18th
I've been meaning to jot down some thoughts about the RedCARpet Safety event for a while now. I have a little creature that doesn't love sleep (help!) and keeps me very busy. This was one of Hayden's first "events." He was mesmerized! Too much to see to focus on any one thing. Quite a different experience going to an event with a 3 month old (this was back in September). I barely slept the night before and felt like I was sleep walking. But, we had a good time. It was fun running into so many other friends and their babies. It was such a hot Los Angeles day! Glad I wore layers over the t-shirt (my living the dream shirt!). Take a look!
oh and ps- We missed having my stepson, Huck, with us. We picked up some goodies for him, though. He loves his Joovy Bicycoo.
Lindsay Godfrey and I got to chat for a second with her amazing mini-me Aleda.
We got to grab a pic with Ali Fedotowsky and precious Molly.
Reunited with Melissa Ordway? 5 points to the person that can tell me when and where we worked together!?
Shop the Post below! Some items may be similar and not exact if original items are sold out!
1) LIVING THE DREAM t-shirt 2) Jcrew Crystal Necklace 3) Similar necklace ($25) 4) JCrew Ear Crawler ($11) 5) Flannel, Drapey soft shirt 6) Similar over-the-knee boots like Ali's (on sale!) 7) BareEssentials Flawless Mineral makeup (my go-to easy foundation) 8) lipstick package THE PERFECT BITE. 9) black cloth (with leopard print lining $25)
Play dates! Play dates!
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While some friends are living it up at #NYFW as we follow their every move on social media, it's hard to believe I'm 40 and making playdates with my three-month-old but here we are and I love it. Hayden has had a few dates lately. Earlier in the week, he had a date with Miss Molly Manno...and of course, had to dress up!
Then, we're losing it over here at these photos from our triple date today with Lennox and Molly! It's like Hayden had a chance with Molly, then Mr. Lennox came calling! And, it looks like Molly chose Lennox!! So funny.
I can't get over how adorable these kiddos are together...I also can't get over how much our have changed in a phenomenally short amount of time. I mean, we were all just pregnant together! The three of us moms all had a busy day, but I'm so glad we still got together. Our dear friend Lacey had her baby, too, so we can't wait to bring Julia into the mix! It's good for me to see and hear how other first time mothers are handling their new lives with the baby. Having that village of other women is important. Hayden still isn't sleeping as much as I'd like at night, so Molly's mom (follow Ali Fedotowsky's blog here) shared some ideas. I'm laughing as I write this because no one sleeps as much as they would like to anymore. I can't believe I ever complained about a)sleep or b)my back hurting pre-baby. I had no idea what real sleep deprivation was! If you all have tips on babies sleeping longer stretches, let me know. I appreciate your comments. Meanwhile, Hayden is sleeping longer right now than he has maybe ever. And here I am not able to sleep! It's literally 2am and I cannot sleep. I'm learning lines for an audition and now writing here...Tomorrow may be rough.
Our get togethers are much quicker than they used to be and involve a decent amount of chaos (check our snapchat: @ashleyaubra), but still just as much fun. ps- Check out Amy's blog here!
Hayden loves his....
