SWEATER ROUND UP...before they're gone!

Between my more serious posts about breast cancer awareness and freezing my eggs, I’m squeezing in a fun, light one. Sizes and colors are going fast… here we go! Y’ALL - all sweaters are $35 or under!!

I’m wearing a small. It looks tight around my waist, but it’s not. I’m holding it up here; there’s some room there. This is so soft and comes in 4 colors and is $35!! (Might be even lower today??) I’m contemplating the black, too. Or white! But this blush is a favorite color of mine. I put this up on stories asking if looked too much like a “mom style!” Well, I AM a mom, so… I guess it works. Wearing them here with my Leopard Rothys. No secret how much I’ve loved these (washable, comfortable and made of recycled materials!). Really love the slightly puffy sleeves cause they balance out my hips (see close up photo below). Every time I show this cross body wallet/phone case, I get asked about it. So, linking it today. It’s $21 and has held up perfectly (with abuse!) for over 18 months.

This sweater is under $30! Sooo soft. It comes in several colors and color-blocks. As of this morning, this color was gone, but is coming back in stock. I like the yellow and peachy-pink, too. BUT they have THIS COLOR in the turtleneck for $29!! Look how pretty below!

These two below are ONLY $20! I added one of them to get to free shipping in my target cart. I’ve worn them both a few times now. Very comfortable and soft. Not itchy, which I was concerned about. The leopard print looks exactly like the Rachel Parcel one (more expensive)! I am showing you below.

I love grey! Variations of grey (maybe not 50 shades;) but we can start with two!

And last one above is on Amazon Prime. I LOVE this affordable turtleneck and adding it to my PRIME DAY cart tonight. Also looking at the Instapot. Who has one? Do I really need it? I used to do a ton of slow cooking, but lost my slow cooker in the divorce. Oh well… I could get this one for $79 on prime day, I think. Thoughts?

xoxo

AAJ

KIDS: USEFUL TOOLS AND TIPS

GIVEAWAY CLOSED! WINNERS ARE BEING CONTACTED. Everywhere turn we turn, we are reminded we’re all in this pandemic together, but each and every one of us has our own journey. Some are all alone, while others are juggling families. Some have small children, others have self-sufficient teenagers that have to be monitored in different ways. While many people are picking up new found hobbies, others are experiencing heartbreak and loss. Some are making elaborate meals; some are hungry (if you are, please reach out in the comments below or contact us and we can help asap or connect you with help).

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Thx @parenting for asking me to share some giggles with you... (you’ll hear when you play😆). J/k I’m really sharing some single mom quarantine finds: @odddotbooks @bestselfco @shop_PRI @lolleez_pops @eatmeatdistrict @brickseek @writetome and loungewear by @everlygrey ❤️💜 Your turn! Tell me some stuff helping YOU!?

A post shared by Ashley Jones (@ashleyaubra) on Apr 13, 2020 at 4:18pm PDT

This post (with some GIVEAWAYS from the Parenting.com video above) goes out to all the MAMAS and DADDIES. For those of you trying to work from home (like literally bring in money to live), be a manager of a restaurant (taking orders in your kitchen ALL DAY LONG), run a full service housekeeping business (gotta try to keep up with these copious amount of dishes and laundry) AND NOW HOMESCHOOL?? Plus, I have a special place in my heart for you full time single parents. It’s just Hayden and me- 24/7! I get it.

Here are some tools to order or print out TODAY to help run your homeschooling ship or bring in new ideas. And by “homeschooling,” I’m saying just keep our young ones stimulated and learning- even through summer, am I right? Some other ideas can be found in this post HERE. The majority of these ideas came from YOU GUYS commenting! Thank you. Please keep it up!

WORKBOOKS

My left-handed little man and I are big fans of Tinker Active Workbooks. (I know he should be using a different writing utensil, but he wanted to be like mama… and he traced pretty well!)

With all the computerized programs out there, we like still like tangible proof of what we’re doing. Perforated sheets make it easy to remove (and showcase on a board or fridge), or keep everything together. Math, Science (fun projects) and now English.

Check out their FREE downloadable printouts that Hayden’s been working on. We’ve printed them several times to work on our letters.

AND… I’M GIVING AWAY A SET OF BOOKS. MAYBE EVEN TWO SETS or THREE. Kindergarten, 1st grade and 2nd grade. Picking winners from comments here on the blog and on the instagram post!! Please give your handle on social or add in email address here.

COMMUNICATION

I’m looking forward to going LIVE with an expert very soon to discuss communication skills. I want to make sure I’m allowing Hayden to open up about as much as he can. We enjoy BEST SELF - LITTLE TALK CARDS at dinner. He gets to pick a card (if it’s too complicated, he picks another one). It works well for all ages of kids, so a perfect family deck. He thinks it’s fun and it gets him talking about his feelings and thoughts. Even simple things like worst/best. What’s the best part of your day? Worst part? How can we make tomorrow better?

FYI- if you order Best Self cards from BestSelf.co, you get FREE SHIPPING with a $45 order. I added the self-planner to my cart and have been using it a lot. You can also order HERE from Amazon.

AND I’M GIVING AWAY several DECKS and SELF PLANNERS!! FIVE- YES FIVE OF YOU will be picked from comments below and comments on instagram post! Please give your handle on social or add in email address here.

LIFE SKILLS

We’re all home cooking, mind as well teach them young! Here are some books that have been fun for us! COOKING CLASS for young chefs! Woo-hoo.

LIONS AND TIGERS AND BEARS

And have you tried 3D animals on your phone? This is fun activity, but if you’re kids are young (like Hayden, 3), I recommend not doing it before bedtime! Hayden had a million questions and was worried it might come back to his room. (UGH!) BUT, it’s so much fun to do! THIS CAME FROM YOU GUYS RECEOMMENDING ACTIVITIES. Thanks! Very simple:

1) Open google or a browser on your iPad or phone. For me, Safari didn’t work on my iPhone. I used Chrome.

2)Type in an animal. Try TIGER, ALLIGATOR, PANDA, etc. Scroll down a bit and you will see a square that says VIEW IN 3 D.

3)Click view. Make sure there is enough light in your room. Move your phone around and watch a 3D animal appear. You can pinch for smaller or make larger. They can jump on your bed!!

Another fun animal game: NATIONAL GEOGRAPHIC KIDS- check out their whole site, but we love taking the quizzes together!

COLORING BOOKS

My girl at Michele Bell Studio is at it again. I can’t get over how creative she has been during quarantine. And I’m still love here trying to get the gel off my nails. She created a COLORING IN THE TIME OF CORONA COLORING BOOK to open up discussion with your kids and let them creatively get their feelings out. YOU HAVE to see the WHOLE thing- this is just one page.… go check this out! She’s my friend that does the amazing leggings and photography…. plus the creative Elf on the Shelf at Christmas. Give her a follow @MicheleBellStudio!!

To download FOR FREE, visit her main page site: MICHELEBELLSTUDIO.COM 

Ok… gimme more ideas… I wanna keep doing these!! Next one I think will be about physical education- how to get the energy out of our kiddos faster! lol

I’m eyeing a tip from my friend Ali Manno. May click to buy today. Thoughts? Am I crazy?? This would fit indoors in my living room during the time of corona.

B&B AIR DATE UPDATE

Hi EVERYONE…. HOW ARE YOU? I’m asking cause I really wanna know.

I am gonna make some time for Hayden and I to go outside today. We need that! I wrote a post recently about pausing or shifting…. little did I know at the time that many, many of us would be taking quite the pause in most areas of our lives due to #Covid19. I mentioned learning to be content at times. Really trying to practice that now! Also have a post up about some ideas for kids during this time. Also, while I’m here and may have your attention…. make sure we are paying attention to our regular health right now. Especially when it’s so easy to be home and snack so much!

California is at a “shelter in place” status. So, we’re connecting in different ways. Like…doing LIVES!

I got to chat live with some of you in Italy yesterday and I loved it. So unfortunate it takes a pandemic to make our world feel so connected and small. We are ALL going through this together. All our kids are home. Most of us are out of work. Those that are working are HELPING us now (thank you). Thank you to all of you that chimed in Roberta’s page!

Going LIVE here in LA at 11am Pacific Time. I’m going to split the screen and chat with some of YOU, hopefully. If you can’t chime in on this one, no worries, we’ll keep doing it!

So, episodes of BOLD AND BEAUTIFUL got pushed up from what we originally thought. Bridget is visiting next Thursday March 26th, 27th and 30th. What I’d like to say about these episodes is this: of course I love getting to be back at the studio, seeing my tv family and playing Bridget. I also appreciate getting to see these actors work together. So many lines, very emotional scenes and yet, these actors keep it raw, real and riveting. (Sorry if that sounds cheesy! lol). It's so impressive to watch. You’ll see… when you tune in. WHY DO YOU THINK BRIDGET IS BACK? Would love to hear your thoughts. Also, it’s nice to turn off the news for a moment and escape to a fantastical world;)

And the Lifetime movie I’m scheduled to film is still happening, just up in the air as to when… like most things in the world right now. Taking it a day at time. (It’s about CHEER;)

Plus, there’s another secret project happening. It’s been a long time in the making and #Covid19 is pausing it a bit, but we’re all making progress. Fingers crossed we get to share it soon.

Be well, everyone.

xoxo

AAJ

GOOD MORNING, GOOD NEWS

HAPPY MONDAY MORNING!

Some of you have become regulars here on the blog or visiting social. Thank you! If you find out some good news, will you share it with everyone here? We need to hear it! I need to hear it! 

When we get scared, anxious and feel alone, filling our minds with something positive can inspire us to take another step and keep going.

Sunrise

Did you or a loved one get a good report back health-wise? Did you get a promotion? Clean out a closet and now feel more space in your brain? lol (Sometimes WE CAN CREATE OUR OWN GOOD VIBES doing something proactive).  Be of service to someone? Simply have a good cup of coffee?? Positivity spreads. When we can be happy for each other, that spirit is contagious. I’ve been so happy for friends recently that booked jobs or celebrated their wedding anniversary. Even if I’m sad and scared about my situation, it doesn’t take away from me being HAPPY FOR THEM. It’s not always easy to understand why some things work out for us and some things don’t. We just have to hold on to the belief that THERE IS ENOUGH SUNSHINE FOR EVERY SINGLE ONE OF US. 

I was walking yesterday with Hayden and saw some bare trees. Skinny, naked and grey. So important what the seasons teach us. Those are the same trees that will have stunning, full pink blossoms next year. Last week, my girlfriend Willa Ford reminded me to thank God for good news coming. Have faith it’s coming.

That was Monday morning. And I did add that to my prayer. Late Friday, I got some good news. I booked a job!  Since y’all are such amazing supporters, I am excited to share with you. It’s an episode of a primetime show I hope you’ll like.

I’ll be able to say more later, but for now, it’s great to hear something positive on the work front. I feel blessed and want to hold on to that. Now go— your turn. Let’s keep the cycle going. Share some positive news!

xoxo

AAJ

ps- working on some fun posts for here, too. Some cozy, holiday inspired posts! And really cool wellness ones, too. Stay tuned. Now, off to workout and get some serotonin flowing.

EDIT: SINCE WRITING THIS VERY EARLY THIS MORNING, OUR CITY IS BASICALLY ON FIRE. NOW MY PRAYER IS NO ONE GETS HURT AND THE FIRE GETS CONTAINED AND THE LAFD FEELS THE LOVE WE ALL HAVE FOR THEM.

Keep CALM. Eat Chocolate!

HI! UPDATE. IF YOU DIDN’T WIN THE GIVEAWAY BELOW, DON’T FRET. GOOD DAY CHOCOLATE IS GIVING US 25% OFF THE ENTIRE SITE FOR OCTOBER!! USE CODE ASHLEY25. XOXO

Hi you guys… Boy! So many changes happening. I feel like there are curve balls being thrown at me everyday. As I have said in other recent posts, I wanna keep as much continuity in our lives as possible. Being consistent in small daily habits yields big results in the long run. That I know is true whether you are making major life changes, or starting new diet habits.

Full disclosure, these photos were taken a bit ago. Hayden was starting pre-school and I was making sure he was getting a probiotic and multivitamin everyday. Being exposed to new germs at school and adjusting to a new schedule can throw a toddler off!

We all know that our bodies absorb the outside stress in our lives. Stress from simple things like traveling to major life changes like moving can affect our health. If you’re feeling like anything is “off” with your body, TRY A GREAT PROBIOTIC—- sometimes something that simple with a lot of water can help tremendously. I’m reminding myself of this as much as reminding you!

Hayden gets his yummy probiotic after dinner. It helps keep things regular and moving, if you know what I mean;) Plus, he thinks it’s dessert!

And for me, a morsel at night helps sleep. The probiotic, turmeric, calm… I’m eating all the good chocolates. I mentioned in my instagram stories recently that you can grab all of their flavors at Whole Foods now!! I was so excited Good Day Chocolate was in Whole Foods. I had to do some stories right there with Huck and Hayden. You can also get them all on amazon.

This brand has been a part of our lives for a while. If you’re new to this blog, check the posts HERE and HERE and HERE. We are real fans. Today I get to share the love…. we’re doing a fun GIVEAWAY with GOOD DAY CHOCOLATES because we just love you all that much!! They are making a generous variety pack for one of you to try all the different products. Make sure you LIKE THIS POST here on instagram and leave a comment here on the blog. That’s it! You’ll be entered. I’m really loving these giveaways. It’s a fun way to connect with you guys and give a little something back. It gives me joy. Hope you are liking them, too!

LOVE LANGUAGE WITH FAGE®

This scene is sponsored by FAGE®, but it was a real moment documented at our home;)

Int. House-MOTHER’S DAY

MOTHER

Hayden, what is your favorite thing to do with Mommy?

HAYDEN

Um…what does that mean?

MOTHER

If you could do one thing with just mommy today, what would that be?

HAYDEN

Let me show you.

EXT. HOUSE- PORCH

Hayden takes his mother’s hand and leads her outside to the patio. Points to the outdoor couch.

HAYDEN (CONT’D)

Sit down right here. 

Mother sits.

HAYDEN (CONT’d

Let’s eat oatmeal right here. With yogurt. 

END SCENE

Most weekdays, after his dad and brother leave, Hayden and I have our special moments. Sometimes eggs and toast, but more often than not, oatmeal. Even if we’re rushed, I grab an oatmeal packet (yes, I use instant often #busymom), boil water, cool if off with a large dollop of Greek yogurt and fruit. I think there’s lots of reasons he loves this. He gets to help me “make” it, even though it’s just combining a few ingredients. And I’ll have my coffee, he has milk. We cheers to the day, say our thanks and he talks. “Remember mommy? Remember yesterday when Hucky was here and….” 

If I grab my phone for something, he takes my face in his hands to let me know this is his time. I got that memo and honor that. Of course, we have moments all day everyday…books, learning our letters and walks and outdoor time and family time, etc. But I know he loves this breakfast time in the morning on the weekdays. It’s our love language. Sounds stereotypical that a boy’s love language is food…. starts early, I know! It may be more that toddlers like structure and habitual activities; Hayden is no exception. 

If you follow my stories, you’ve seen Hayden begging me for yogurt in the morning. It’s pretty funny how excited he gets over yogurt. Specifically FAGE® Greek cause that’s what we keep stocked. And that is actually an understatement… he and Huck beg for it for lunch and dinner, too. FAGE® is so creamy and rich in taste, it’s often dessert for our family. I appreciate FAGE® is Non-GMO Project Verified and all natural, no added sweeteners, no preservatives. All of FAGE®’s products are verified through the Non-GMO project, which offers the highest level of transparency about GMOs. I know exactly what -and what isn’t- going into my little boys’ bodies, and my body!

I incorporate yogurt in so many dishes. Substituting yogurt in a recipe can lower the fat substantially. From simple things like oatmeal (pictured here), to taco dinners, baked potato (my personal favorite), lasagna and obviously desserts (angel food cake - or biscuits- with FAGE® yogurt and strawberries. Name something better in life!). Scroll down for the recipes. Substituting Greek yogurt in many recipes lowers the sugar and raises the protein (and LOVE) for your family. You can use FAGE® plain to replace butter, sour cream, oil, shortening or milk! I keep FAGE® plain fat free yogurt in our fridge, as well as the 30% less sugar split cups. I also brought a bunch to the boys’ birthday party last weekend. I liked the option to have this for dessert for people that didn’t want to eat cake, but I did NOT expect them to all be eaten. Every single split cup was gone! 

So… if you’re a regular here on the blog, you’ve heard me talk about FAGE®- have you tried it yet? What recipes do you substitute in Greek yogurt? Would LOVE to hear.

Also, another fun summer idea I learned from FAGE®—- add yogurt to an icing dispenser. Squeeze the yogurt into the opening of raspberries, then let them freeze in the freezer to make frozen yogurt pockets!

See below for other recipes!

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FRIDAY THOUGHTS AND UPDATES

Hi everyone. Happy almost weekend! I had a bigger plan for this post, but it’s not done, so I’m just popping in to say hello. And this photo is not me. But I’ve saved it for a while. It’s a stock photo on the internet. LOL. In my memories of European days (which WILL happen again), this is me. So, stay tuned for a copycat.

I’ve been thinking about some of you that have commented on recent posts. Those of you that are dealing with health issues or health issues of a loved one, I hope today is a good day. Sometimes, it’s just a day at a time.

And those of you that commented to on the post about fertility, I wanted to thank you for the encouragement. Some of you are right there with me, so I’m sending up great thoughts in my prayers tonight. For all of us!

I’m heading into the doctor tomorrow again to check stuff for fertility. Bright and early. And then tomorrow night is the Bold and Beautiful Anniversary party. 

On a different note, the movie I filmed in Canada last year, HOME KILLING QUEEN, is set to premiere on Lifetime May 11th! I’ll share more soon. It’s such a different role for me. The other actors and actresses in the film are excellent. And it was written by my friend Andrea Canning, Dateline corespondent. It’s a thriller, with a darker comedic tone. What I appreciate about the film is the overall message of values. We become what we feed our souls. Choose wisely.

UPDATE:

That was all written last night and I never posted it. All looks good for now from the doctor after my appointment, so we wait. UGH. We tried and we wait. This is the hardest part, am I right? Fertility is amazing and so hard sometimes.

I’m gonna distract myself and go get ready for the B&B party. Also, for you guys out there that know or have younger children, I have a fun post up for a giveaway…check it out on instagram. It’s the Chickapig book, game and soft fluffy chick creature! (So cute, actually). A great Easter gift, so go WIN it! Here’s the exact link-> instagram post giveaway.

30 years ago...HAPPY BIRTHDAY WORLD (WIDE WEB).

Since you are here on this site, you might have already opened google. If you haven’t yet, you inevitably will.  And then you’ll see Google is celebrating 30 years of the world wide web!

Well, that makes me feel old. Do you remember where you were the first time you plugged in to “dial up?” That bee-bo-bop-oh, ch-ch-beep sound. I remember getting those AOL disks in the mail and doing free trials. What is all the fuss about? It’s alien to my preteen-age brain. 

I also remember my parents not loving the idea for us kids. I don’t recall specifics- but now that I am a parent, I can only imagine what they were thinking. We want to protect our children any way we know how. And this was a totally unknown connection to strangers (and expensive…remember?)!

This thing we all are so accustomed to now certainly changed the world. Forever. Made it smaller in some ways for some people and much larger in ways for others. You? How has it affected your world? 

Ironically, I was forced to think about this last night. Joel went to a concert, Hayden was asleep and I had big plans to work in bed (with Bachelor on in the background, since we all knew what was happening anyway)— but our internet wasn’t connecting properly for a bit and messed up the tv, too. Immediately I felt disconnected, frustrated, and annoyed. Like… how can I go all night without the internet? 

It rebooted and all was normal again.

Just 30 short years ago…. before cell phones, social media, kindle, netflix, and even before the world wide web, there was the dewey decimal system. And snail mail. And newspapers. And coffee where we just had words with friends (like actual words, not the game on our phones).  And pagers! Remember pagers? I’ll never forget getting those beeps on my pager driving back to Pepperdine from my audition for THE YOUNG AND THE RESTLESS. I got off the freeway to use a payphone and hear the good news.

I love this “connected” stuff as much as the next person, but to celebrate the 30th birthday, I might go offline. Go crazy like it’s 1989.

At least for a few hours. 

PLAN FOR THE FUTURE

I’m thrilled about our new sponsor: CFP Board. They’re shedding light on something I want all of us to think about and discuss – our finances. It’s not always comfortable, but it is extremely necessary.

As you may already know from my other posts, Joel and I are thinking about expanding our family (eeep!); this has led to discussions about our finances.

Lately, I’ve been waking up in the middle of the night with my mind racing about these discussions. I know stress is not the best during this “process,” but it’s also hard to avoid.  Joel and I both have family in the financial world that have impressed upon us the importance of planning for the future. We were told it was time to get help and make a plan created by a CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ professional.

First off, I’m learning that many people without the necessary qualifications call themselves financial planners, so just beware. It’s essential to get someone who has a CFP® certification upholding the ethical standards required of a CFP® professional. Just like you want a doctor that has the proper license, you want someone guiding your finances that has the proper qualifications.

Like my desire to KonMari style organize my house is strong, my desire to get organized financially is even stronger. Meeting with a CFP® professional near us (letsmakeaplan.org) can help Joel and I start working on all of those questions that keep popping up in the middle of the night. I mainly want to plan for education (from preschool to college) and know how much we should be putting away for retirement and life insurance. It must be our age, but retirement seems to come up in conversation a lot lately. It’s easy to get stuck in the day-to-day and be happy just making ends meet every year, but I know there is a way to WIN the rat race one day–and enjoy retirement–IF we stay on a targeted plan.  

Like most Americans, our financial needs range and change. The above thoughts are my urgent issues today, but I also have so many others. For instance, lots of little questions about our personal taxes for those of us with blended families. A CFP® professional will work with us today and grow with us as our needs change, especially if (and when!) another little one joins the family. How can we make our money work for us, not the other way around!??  My father gave me the best reason to work with a CFP® professional: worry less. He said money is a terrible master, but a wonderful servant.

Do you feel like your money is working for you? I hope so! But could it be working harder? I’m excited to let the professionals do what they do best, so I can be the best for those I love and be the best at what I love.

It’s so easy to just meet with a CFP® professional. Go to letsmakeaplan.org and find one in your area. The best part of CFP® professionals is that they work with you to build a plan to take care of a myriad of needs–both big and small. If you are starting your own family, there is NO better time than now to start planning ahead and securing your future. If you’re even younger, let me tell you: when I bought my first house in my 20s, I thought that was enough to secure my financial future, but in hindsight, I could have done so much more had I retained a CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ professional. See what they have to say!

If you’re interested, I hope to share our journey with you all–and show you how much financial planning can serve you in your lives. It can be a lifelong relationship, my CFP® pro and me!

As always, any comments below are welcomed! Have you ever worked with a financial planner?

xox

AJH

forget Partying at the Oscars, we're all about: PARTY AT THE POTTY

Our first attempt at potty training at 19mo did not go over well.

4/3/2020 UPDATED: I’ve spoken to several people thinking about potty training right now. DO IT. There has never been a better time if you feel your child is ready. It might even be a good distraction from the news! Many of the products that helped me below will be SO useful when life returns and we can all leave the house. But many are incredibly useful right now. Hayden is fully potty trained- during the day! He actually caught on very quickly. My initial constipation worry (see below) ended within 4 days. During this time, and all times, consider adding a children’s probiotic to their daily intake. Please always check with your pediatrician with any ideas I offer.

He barely has accidents at night, but when he does, I’m grateful for the pull-up assistance. We are working on weaning pull-ups at night. Ideas on that one?

PARTY AT THE POTTY

If you follow me on social media, you know I’m in the middle of potty training Hayden. 

Hayden’s pediatrician believes we need to work on weaning diapers before I try to wean the thumb sucking (that’s a polarizing topic for another day). I thought there was a good chance I’d be working on set on a show this week, so when that didn’t pan out, I had a few free days. Hayden seemed to understand what I was talking to him about (I know, he’s TWO, but he really did seem to get it). So one full day we discussed it, then off went the diapers the next day.

I must say I was dreading potty training, but maybe since I expected the worst, it’s not as bad? I tell you one thing- I’m over diapers!! For all you parents out there about to start the process, I feel for you, but just go for it IF YOU FEEL your child is ready. I tried potty training Hayden at 19 mo. and he was NOT ready. His imagination came alive, creating many other uses for the potty other than the intended one (see photo above!). I’m weary to say much just yet because we are only on day 3. So, what I will discuss is preparation. 

Here goes:

I did nearly nothing. Ha! We read some books on the topic at night on and off recently. Not books for me, books with stick figures that talk about walking to the potty and sitting down on the potty, etc. I talked to my friend Willa Ford @wfordinteriors that went through this process before me and she recommended some products that I highly suggest using! So, I spent about 5 minutes amazoning the below. I’ll link them. I bought them all!

I’m grateful Willa gave me her list! I would have NEVER thought of the “piddle pad” for the car seat until it was too late and been super frustrated trying to clean it! Trips anywhere we don’t want to carry a potty with us, these portable silicone fold up seat covers with liners are genius. My biggest thing is not letting Hayden touch anything. This basic POTTY book really helps them understand what is happening. And I ordered the padded undies because they will catch the initial dribbles! The thin one that come in packs of 10 will NOT do that. And finally, I’m keeping the travel potty in the car. I have one at home that is simple, but this one had a COVER LID if we need to hold off on dumping for a moment.

Potty training must be one of those things that is hard to recall once it’s all over and time has passed. I met Huck when he was about Hayden’s age. We went through potty training together. I helped implement “no more diapers.” We used pull ups for a short period at night, then big boy underwear. I remember moments of the process, having to rush home after accidents, Huck holding my neck as he pooped in the potty for the first time telling me he was scared. But, over all, I don’t remember that much. Is it human nature to selectively forget the hard parts or we would never want to do it again?? I can’t imagine that time was a super easy process for any of us, especially Huck, because he was going back and forth between his mom and his dad. But, he adjusted, as kids do.

I know there are books on the subject that outline it all. I skimmed the jist of them on google and just went for it. Lemme tell you one thing I quickly noticed: there are two schools of thought.

1) Never put the diaper back on them again. Even for naps or nighttime.

2) Put the diaper on them for sleeping or traveling distances. 

I chose the latter.

For now, it’s all “party at the potty!” ha! We’re handing out little mini prizes and limiting the sweet treats as much as possible. Stay tuned for how it goes. Do you remember potty training your child? Or are you thinking about starting??

Please please share any ideas, tips and tricks. One of you (I don’t share names without asking first) shared Brandi Bruck’s Potty Training in 3 Days. I may order that book! Thanks for those of you that are so encouraging of this process!! #MYtribe is awesome.

ps- one other great resource is from PottyGenius. I loved their tips and tricks section. They also have Hayden’s favorite superhero underwear and a change kit that is a life saver. I talked about it on instagram:

View this post on Instagram

PARENT LIFE HACK: want to know one of the best finds since potty-training? Handcraft’s CHANGE KIT @potty_genius. That recent delay we had at the airport? Thank goodness I had a #changekit in my carry-on. Also in my glove compartment! And his cubby at preschool;) I love feeling prepared! Inside are wipes, undies and disposable bag! I’m hearing from many of you that you are starting potty training right now in preparation for school. Yay! #yougotthis 👊🏼💪🏼 #makeitfun 😜 #beprepared Now at Rite Aid for under $5. #sponsored #pottytraining #riteaid @riteaid // thx @ographr for the snaps!

A post shared by Ashley Jones (@ashleyaubra) on Jul 30, 2019 at 8:06am PDT

xo

AJH

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SINCE I POSTED THIS, OTHER ISSUES HAVE COME IN TO PLAY. CONSTIPATION WAS MY BIGGEST CONCERN.

UPDATE 2/24/19 10am

While many I know were at Oscar parties last night, we were home partying at the potty! I got concerned that Hayden had not pooped. Now, it’s been over 2 days. Who has dealt with potty training constipation? I’m googling and it can quickly turn into an alarming situation. I’m feeding him more foods that might help that issue right now. I’m reading I might need to give prune juice. He is peeing in the toilet every time, but clearly holding the poop for one reason or another. Is anyone else dealing with this or have you recently?

Also, I am so grateful and overwhelmed at everyone’s comments on DM, but I would rather us all share here where others can benefit from your wisdom. I know it’s frustrating to have to sign into squarespace before you leave a comment, but it’s pretty easy- give a name and an email. The email is not for my purposes, but squarespace security. We only see addresses if you voluntarily sign up for newsletters (which we are working on finally accomplishing!). All that to say—- PLEASE LEAVE A COMMENT so others can benefit;)

I’ll be leaving updates here of anything that works for us. For those of you that are just now tuning in and are questioning potty training, the main thing I’ve learned so far is that YOU have to be more ready to do this than your child. It’s really TRAINING THE PARENTS.

UPDATE: 2/24/19 10pm

Ok, I got so preoccupied with stuff- sorry for the delay here. Thank for those of you checking on us! He ate a lot and had quite a few apple slices. Nothing was happening and it had been 2 days. I read a great deal online and got concerned. I didn’t want to develop contipation issues. At 4pm, I rubbed a bit of vaseline back there with Joel helping me hold Hayden (tiny bit, on the outside). He finally started pooping around 5pm (cried a tiny bit). I said he could poop anywhere he wanted - in a diaper, in his (padded) big boy undies or in the potty whenever he wanted to. He started to go in his undies, then I gently took him to his little potty. He finished there and was very excited to flush it. He continued to go in the potty (pee) the rest of the night ( 2 more times). One of you mentioned that I should explain he is a big boy and he can come tell Mommy when he needs to go to the bathroom. I tried that and it did work with pee, but I still reminded him he could go potty every hour. I put a diaper on him for bed tonight.

UPDATE: 2/25/19 10:16 pm

I’m so tired. This gets draining. I do believe this will help others, so that’s why this is so detailed.

I’ll start by saying he waited till 4pm to pee AT ALL today (even with a ton of food and water and milk in him). He just kept saying he didn’t need to potty. At nap time, I put a diaper on him and it was bone dry when he woke up. I’m less concerned today, but still went to the store to get some raisins and more apples. He ate them. Finally at 4pm, he went. He waited till 5p to poop. He started in his big boy pants, then I lured him over to the potty with the promise of a little toy car. He was so excited to flush it, he forgot about the toy. I brought it up anyway and praised him.

NOTE: I am SO happy with these slightly padded undies I wrote about below. I wasn’t sure if they would work, but he loves to put them on and feels very comfortable in them. If he starts to go, it doesn’t soak up like a diaper, so he is aware, but it also doesn’t leak immediately. We have 4 pairs (one pack). I got a 3T, which are perfect for him.

Hayden much more “relaxed” about the process now.

WHAT'S IN YOUR FRIDGE?

Continuing the new wellness series with this post supported by FAGE yogurt. In full disclosure, we have been a FAGE family for a long time. This partnership just makes sense to spread our love and we hope to continue to partner with more awesomeness in the future.

What’s in MY fridge?

It’s the middle of winter. Whether you’re in Arizona’s 69 degree weather, or you’re in the snowstorm in the northeast freezing or here in California where it’s been raining, it’s winter. And this, my friends, is an excellent time to start our spring cleaning preparation of mind, BODY and space. Last year, I embarked on a wellness series with y’all and enjoyed it. I feel like we’ve already started with all the “drinking more water” talk. And I’m not gonna let down on that..reminding myself to drink more clean water everyday.

Today, I’m continuing the topic with healthy food choices. So many of you ask me what I make for dinner, or what I’m feeding my kiddos. I also get asked if I EVEN make dinner or what I heat up that’s frozen! VALID, I’ll admit! Any parent in the world has to figure out food for their family—a normal question, albeit a DREADED ONE. Anytime I have the opportunity to ask friends and get new ideas— you bet I do! 

Today is a busy day. It’s raining in LA and I have appointments. So, I threw chicken in the slow cooker with salsa as a base. Later when it’s time for dinner, I’ll shred it, add a bit of yogurt, yes, FAGE (read benefits of greek yogurt from HEALTHLINE here), low-fat cheese, cilantro, and roll it into a burrito and voila! When I got home, I gave Hayden a FAGE Total Split Cup yogurt container. We have been eating yogurt a lot. FAGE reduced the sugars in FAGE Total Split Cups (fruit varieties) by 30%!! From 16-17g down to 11g per serving! That’s incredible sugar cutting with no artificial sweetners. I love nothing more than to feel like I’m giving my family GOOD, whole foods that help their bodies function properly and fight off sickness.

And for ME!

Who can relate to this? Whatever I give the kids or my husband, I usually give a portion to myself. Or at least take bites here and there. So, if our snacks or dinner are really fatty (which we went through a phase), I take those bites. Then, I would also eat my dinner later. I have gained a bit of weight (different topic) but am working to makeover our family lifestyle. We are committed to good food, organic or all-natural as much as possible, locally grown, etc, but then my husband still loves melted cheese all over chips. Or brownies. Or muffins. (okay, fine, I like those things, too!). I know there’s a balance, so when I can offer lower calorie, lower sugar snacks, I will. More nuts, fruits and yogurts, or yo-guns, as Hayden calls them. My husband loves FAGE and the individual split cups were easy to tote for the kids.  If we go to the Huntington Gardens (a regular activity when it’s nice outside), I throw a few packages in my backpack with some mixed nuts and a banana. I keep them in stock for my own pre/post workout snack. If I’m leaving the house for auditions and meetings, I have one with me. I can park, read over my lines and eat a high protein snack. The probiotics are healthy for our digestion and fighting toxins in our bodies, too.  The benefits run deep!

One thing I love about FAGE Total Split Cup packages is that you add the fruit component. So, I control how much I put in. I can add a few nuts, a few spoonfuls of the fruit component and mix it together. AHHH so good. I also mix the two components in oatmeal most mornings. Hayden and Huck LOVE it.  Even if I do make low fat blueberry muffins for the kids, instead of butter, we spread FAGE.

What’s in YOUR Fridge?

Check out recipes idea here under the “recipe” section at the top! Their sweet potato toast pictured below looks amazing, so does the Macaroni and Cheese!

Now, it’s YOUR turn. What’s in your fridge? What are you making for dinner? gimme ideas! Any new things with Greek yogurt;)? Would love to hear about it in the comments below or on my latest post on social media!

XO

AJH

Good Day PJS!

Good Morning! This is really a quick hello because Huck just left for school and Hayden is quietly playing with his toys (don’t be jealous, this will last all of 10 minutes max). HOW ARE YOU ALL TODAY? I’m already halfway ready to leave for a morning meeting, but stay in my lounging pjs till the last possible minute. Always, right?

Glancing at this photo- how does my house (no matter how many times I pick up everything) always seem to have a random ball appear!? (see blue ball in lower corner) I mean— BOYS!

Working away on my holiday column for Soap Digest. Excited about this year’s article because it’s all about GIFTS THAT GIVE BACK. Snuggled up learning lines for B&B tomorrow and an audition later today and juggling pick-ups with kiddos. Big cup of coffee, check. About to get a refill.

Whenever I say, “it never ends,” Joel replies, “until it does.” Which I always think is kinda morbid! But, he’s right. Happy and grateful for today.

This photo above makes me want to go get Oscar and cuddle. He’s always trying to find a way to share my chair!

If you read the post earlier in the week, I commented on this marble table pictured above and how it migrates around our home. Not joking;) With their current sale, it’s $77. If you’re starting your holiday gift list, add this insanely plush blanket. It’s under $40, comes in a plethora of colors and seriously holds up. I have given this gift to friends and my sister and own two myself. Although these PJs can work for post-baby, I am wearing them nearly everyday. Soft, soft material. (I spy with my little eye the candle I can’t wait to share with y’all! I don’t even have to burn it, the scent just subtly fills the space and reminds me of winter. It’s a giving back product and it launches this week, so stay tuned).

Y’all have a great day!

Homesick. Bear with me here....

Fall 2017. Did that year go by fast?

SATURDAY 22ND 6PM:

I miss Hayden. I chose to take this film far away, so it feels wrong to now complain. I enjoy getting to work and am grateful. Perhaps complaining is not the right word.

Joel and I can talk all the time… communicate as often as we want (until recently, but that’s due to weather, see below). Huck has two homes. We don’t see him all the time; that’s our reality right now as a blended family. But, Hayden is just a toddler. We spend an incredible amount of time together. This time apart is out of the ordinary for us.

Question for parents: how old were your kids the first time you left them for an extended amount of time?

The days are long, but the years are short. A year ago this month, @Ographr took this shot.

I think if I’m honest with myself, it feels like I’m missing out on these days with him; I feel guilty. Did I make the wrong choice? Every time I find myself missing him, it translates to guilt in the pit of my stomach. Serious separation anxiety. Hayden IS with my parents and sister. That part is the good news. He is bonding with them and literally having a blast: walking in the rain (fully clad with the cutest frog rain gear you’ve ever seen-see below), searching for lizards, playing with Betty the Bunny. My family is keeping him stimulated and smothered with love! But, I am up here in Canada far away from him. Hearing him say “Hold you, Mama…hold you” through the phone breaks my heart. For months he’s heard me say, “Want me to hold you?” Hence the “Hold you, mama.” 

I was kind of doing ok emotionally until today. Last night, a tornado hit Ottawa. Our production is right in the middle of it. I was downstairs near the hotel lobby waiting for one my producers and wardrobe for an intense, long fitting where we would decide on outfits for each remaining scene for my character Connie. There were other visitors in the lobby around the same time. In a chorus type melody, each phone began to sing the chime of a weather alert. One after another updating each of us of the danger heading our way. The news had a headline saying: TAKE COVER. STAY AWAY FROM WINDOWS. A TORNADO IS YOUR NEAR VICINITY. What??? The other locals and desk clerks laughed. They said authorities loves to alarm citizens about tornados, but nothing ever happens. 

About five minutes later, through the large glass entry way doors, we saw the tree across the street leaning so far over on its side, it looked like a cartoon. The street lights flickered, then went out. Inside our hotel, the same thing happened. Zap! Darkness. It seemed surreal for a second. I thought to myself… oh geez, we’ll have to wait for a few minutes before the power returns. Well, that was over 24 hours ago.

While we are all safe, we have been without electricity. No one knows how long till it resumes. It’s mayhem here. Few stores or restaurants are open. The ones that are up and running are packed with lines out the door. Once I was able to charge my phone, cell service has been so spotty (and forget trying to get wifi), it’s been very hard to communicate with my husband and family. Currently, I am in a different section of the city writing this, charging my phone and hoping to get some food. Unfortunately, nothing is available near my hotel and since the refrigerator is out…you get the picture. Some of the headlines on the news say this area looks like a WAR ZONE. It’s sad. I feel for these people that are having to rebuild their lives and homes. And my understanding is that many are injured. The school where we’ve been shooting this film caught on fire and has extensive damage. 

No one has died, at least no reports I’ve heard. I thank God for that. And our production crew is safe and sound. So, all in all…. there is nothing more to say. 

Except, I always have one more thing to say, so… I guess it feels as though things can happen anywhere at anytime. My phone isn’t working- I can’t get the videos my parents are sending of Hayden. I know it sounds silly in the grand scheme of things. It’s only been 24 hours. People and families go through real troubles everyday.

I was scheduled to have five days off starting today. My plan was to be on a plane to Texas to see Hayden. And Joel was looking into meeting us there briefly until he was back in LA with Huck. But, alas, this force majeure has altered schedules and I am now shooting during part of that time. 

Hug your loved ones extra tight tonight. 

UPDATE SUNDAY 23rd 11AM:

Power is back on!! Wifi is still spotty, but I can find certain spots now to FaceTime with Joel and Hayden. I got a flutter of photos and videos from Joel (he is visiting his 89 year old grandmother!) and my family. 

The schedule had to be altered for production, but they’re on top of that figuring out new locations, a new school, what needs to be reshot… a lot of juggling. 

Thanks for letting me vent. I’ve received a few DMs or comments from people responding to instastories/posts about being away from Hayden. Your encouraging words help! I especially appreciate personal stories of your own experiences. Working mom stories, travels, etc. I

SECOND UPDATE: Omgoodness!!!! As I was finishing the update above, the fire alarm in this building went off! We were all evacuated temporarily. Kinda crazy. All was taken care of and we are back in our rooms, but wow. (see instagram stories)

SO…. I repeat. Hug your loved ones. Call your loved ones. And also—- I appreciate you all for reading this far! Much much love.

xo

AAJ

My last update..! I saw notes on instagram asking where to get this frog rain gear from the instastory….so, I said I’d add it to the blog post. He is 2 years and 5 months and the 2T fits perfectly. Size 7 shoe.