It’s amazing to me how quickly life changes. One day you’re a career woman who dreams of one day having a family, the next…you’re thrown into parenthood full force without so much as a paddle to hang onto. I’ve always wanted to be a mother, but I had no idea how much work I was asking for. Don’t get me wrong, I love this little face with all my heart. She wakes up smiling and I find myself completely distracted by her cuteness. And even as I write this final post, she’s playing in her activity gym…talking to herself…and making sure I know that she’s there.
With that said, today is bittersweet. Perhaps after my previous post, you saw this coming. As much as I wanted to do it all, I have come to the harsh reality that I am not wonder woman. I simply can’t juggle being a mom, career woman, photographer and blogger. I already gave up working full time – that actually wasn’t too hard, with the exception of missing my old coworkers back in corporate America. Photography…well, the whole reason I started to take photos was so that one day I would be able to capture my children growing up. I definitely won’t be giving that up. But blogging…that’s something that I have really tried hard to maintain and my participation has been lackluster at best. I’m re-prioritizing my life, and being the best mom I can be to that little face won.
What I can say is that my time with the Mortal Muses has been incredible. The talent in this community is unreal. Looking through the Muse Flickr-stream is like strolling through a museum. You all should be so proud. And although I won’t be writing as a muse anymore, I will always be here in spirit…cheering you on from the sidelines. My little girl may have taken priority, but my heart will always be in photography. Thank you for inspiring me.
Always,
Congratulations to you for making the best decision for you, and for your family. It’s been amazing musing along with you Ashley. Best wishes!!
Ashley, it’s been an honour to muse with you and it was even more fun to meet up last year! I will miss you and your wonderful posts and look forward to seeing the pictures of your lovely girl growing up. x
you will be missed, Ashley! Enjoy your time with Felicity!
I sooo understand the bittersweet feelings behind this decision. I am glad that we became friends as muses and will remain friends as muse alumni. Enjoy the time with your growing family!
Ashley ~ I’ve always enjoyed your posts. You will be greatly missed! But, what fun you have ahead. Treasure your time as a mom, its the best “job” ever!
Wishing you joy and blessings,
xo A
Beautiful post, Ashley. You will certainly be missed. All the best to you and your family.
Ashley your posts are always amazing. Enjoy your time with that little girl of yours. Blogging can always wait. Little ones always come first.
You guys are all too sweet – you’re going to make me cry. Love and hugs!
Ashley….I’ve been in the same boat for the last year….I miss all of you that I have met through the blogging world. The support, the beautiful photos / words in your posts. All the best to you!!!!
Ashley, we’ll miss you so much, but i think everyone understand that sometimes in life we have to take a step back and reset our priorities! You are going to be the best mom ever (besides mine of course, lol) Hang in there, enjoying your little darling and shoot up a storm of her while you’re at it. We’ll all look forward to seeing what you do!
Ashley, we will all miss you. Hugs to little baby girl–you do what you need to do 🙂 Stay in touch. xo
Ashley, alas we are all no wonder women and we must prioritize. You will be missed but what you are doing is commendable and understandable. The blogging/photography community will always be here for you.
Thank you for choosing one my pictures to go along with your lovely post. all the best to you and your family.
Tamar x
You will be so missed, Ashley. Glad you will be stopping by and keeping tabs on us all. We will be checking up on you, too. xo