RRP: Did you always envision yourself as a mom, or did that desire develop over time?
Ashley: I didn’t think I wanted to be a mom for the longest time. We moved from Texas to Alabama for my stepdad’s career, but he tragically passed away only a few months later. At that point, I stepped into a maternal role with my siblings and made sure they were up, fed, and ready for school when my mom had early mornings. In a way, I felt like I had already “checked the mom box.” It wasn’t until I turned 30 that I began to second-guess not having kids. I’m so glad we took the chance—being a mom is my favorite role yet!
RRP: What has it been like raising two wonderful boys, ages 8 and 6?
Ashley: It has been an adventure. Brady (8) and Lucas (6) are loud, energetic, and sweet all at once. They’re growing and changing quickly, and just when I think we’ve taught them all they need, they surprise us. The hardest part is letting them face the consequences of their decisions instead of fixing things for them.
Sometimes, though, they remind us that the lessons are sinking in. Last month, I watched Brady start a conversation with a man at our neighborhood pond about fishing. He asked thoughtful questions, shook his hand, and said, “It was nice talking to you, Joel. I hope you catch another big one.” That moment showed me that our hard work pays off.
RRP: How do you balance full-time work in public accounting, civic leadership, and motherhood?
Ashley: For me, balance means flexing to meet the moment. Some days it’s volunteering, other days it’s helping with homework, leaving the office early for a baseball game, and catching up on work later. I’m fortunate to have a flexible career and a very supportive husband. Rick takes on parenting responsibilities when I’m away, and it allows me to show up fully where I’m needed. It’s not always perfect, but it works.
RRP: What outdoor activities do you enjoy together as a family?
Ashley: If it involves sunshine, sand, or water, we’re probably doing it. We love camping, hiking, fishing, throwing baseball in the backyard, and riding bikes. I cherish this season when the boys still love spending time with us, and I hope it lasts for years to come.
RRP: In what ways has growing up in a large blended family influenced your approach to motherhood?
Ashley: I loved having a large family, even with its chaos. It shaped me into who I am today. Since Rick and I chose to have two children, we make a point to spend time with extended family. The boys’ cousins play a pivotal role in their lives, helping us give them that “big family” feel, even though there are only four of us at home.
RRP: What helped you cope with the loss of your first child at 17 weeks, and what encouragement would you share with another mom experiencing the same?
Ashley: Losing a child at any stage is heartbreaking. We lost our son in the second trimester, after everyone knew we were expecting. While painful, I’m grateful we didn’t have to grieve alone. A friend connected me with another mom who had experienced a similar loss, and her support was invaluable.
To any mother facing this: you are not alone. Don’t carry the weight in silence, and don’t let fear of another loss hold you back from trying again. Find a doctor who will support you through the uncertainty, even if that means weekly visits for reassurance.
RRP: What family traditions or routines are most important to you?
Ashley: Our favorite tradition right now is Family Movie Night. On Sundays, Brady and Lucas take turns picking a movie, and Rick and I join the rotation, too. We’ve introduced them to childhood favorites like The Sandlot and Angels in the Outfield, while they pick newer films. It’s a simple but meaningful way to wind down together at the end of a busy week.
RRP: How has baseball brought you and your boys together?
Ashley: Baseball has added another outdoor activity we all enjoy. We spend many evenings practicing in the backyard, but it’s more than just learning the game. It’s about building resilience, teamwork, confidence, and respect. Watching the boys grow through a sport they love has been one of the best parts of parenting.
Rapid Fire Questions
1. Coffee or tea to get through the day? Coffee, the stronger the better.
2. What’s your go-to “mom hack”? For busy school days, breakfast casseroles.
3. Messy playroom or messy kitchen—which one drives you crazier?
4. A messy kitchen because I can’t cook without a clean canvas.
5. Favorite activity to do with your kids? Bike rides after dinner.
6. How would you spend an extra hour to yourself? Reading historic fiction.
Ashley Taylor is married to Rick Taylor. They have been married for 15 years. They have two boys, Brady (8) and Lucas (6). The family enjoys living in Pike Road.
