Ashley, you are so inspiring to me right now! I feel like there are many parallels in our stories: teenage pregnancy, past toxic/abusive relationships, and growing beyond that.
I remember when I went to F AND F, back in 2015, I did not expect to be sitting your chair. I went in for a cut and color, and left feeling lighter for reasons beyond the haircut. I was literally finalizing my divorce, lost in uncharted waters, and you gave me hope. As I rambled off my personal drama to you, you not only listened- you shared your story with me, too. I believe you had just met Abram, only a few dates, gushing about him. There was some mention of the book Redeeming Love, and it's symbolism. Your message to me that I left the salon with: we are worthy of good things, healthy relationships, forgiveness, etc.
It is a special memory to me, especially being that I coincidentally booked that appointment with my childhood friend's sister. ❤️
Over the past year, I have felt this calling to share my story, build community and a space for women that are going though similar experiences to feel validated, etc. Writing a book and starting a blog have been major "goals" (really, more like on a wishlist that I'm not sure I'll ever get around to). Seeing you achieving these goals, not even aware that we had these in common as well, lifts my spirit and encourages me to FOCUS, as you wrote. I tend to overanalyze everything to the point of not starting anything, and reading your insights gave me practical advice that I can really use.                -Kate Furman