"Ok, so here's another segment of #AskAshley, I went through and picked what was asked the most and also tried to combine some of the questions...
Soo here's your questions with my answers below: Enjoy..!! ♥
Was I ever bullied as a child?
Honestly, not really in school, I was always a cool kid. Where I grew up I was popular because I was different. Unlike the instances where I hear about kids being picked on for being different. I had a natural talent for being an artist and was very athletic.
I was always the one from my neighborhood and school that introduced everyone to new music, fashion styles, trends, etc.
How to deal with bullies?
There was only one instance I can think of when I was younger where I had to physically fight some bullies from my town. They weren’t the picking on anyone type, they just wanted to fight. So that’s what I did. I remember there was no option from getting away from them, so we fought. From that point on, it turned into boxing matches, where we would put boxing gloves on and beat the shit out of each other.
What was my child hood like ?
Wow, well that’s a pretty broad topic. I don’t know, I did what boys do in the country. Played in the mud, burned things, built club houses, rode bikes, played sports, chased girls.
More Specific?
Well, I'm an only child. I don't have parents. I was raised by my Grandparents. My parents passed before I was even in BVB. So growing up I was very independent and had a strong will about me. I really honestly only ever had my dream. I was a 'huge' dreamer of all the things I seen happening in California. So everything I ever did growing up had the intentions of moving to Los Angeles one day, whether it be a pro skater, an artist, a musician, an actor or involved in fashion. I wanted to do it all.. I've accomplished a lot of those dreams but continue to chase the ones I have yet to accomplish. And believe me, I've been through a lot and being a kid from a small country town of 200 people. So if I can do it, you can too.
Your parents don’t like you, you have little friends, what to do?
I’m sure your parents like you.. I bet they just don’t understand you, they probably want you to be more like them. Which is ridiculous, because everyone is an individual, just because you’re from a family of (insert occupation) doesn’t mean you want to or have to do the same things. "
Read the rest after the cut..
My suggestion would be to go out and meet people and make friends, if that is what you want. Get out of your comfort zone.
How do I stay strong?
You never realize how strong you are, until being strong is the only choice you have.
Favorite class in HS?
Biology was my fave. I actually got kicked out of my Art classes.
How to get started, insite into starting a band?
I think it all ‘starts’ the same way. Find people to play with, particularly ones who share the same style. But the most important thing is to just get started. Practice a lot on your own and then with others.
How to achieve dreams, while struggling ?
You have to have a real passion for your dreams first, not letting anything or anyone get in your way. And If there wasn’t any struggle in pursuit of something, then everyone would do it, thus not making it very special. If you seek out and follow through with whatever dreams you have through the struggles, you’ll appreciate the outcome a lot more once you achieve it, making it a great accomplishment you’ll be proud of. Achievement is the reward.
-Life stops when you stop dreaming,
Does my Outlaw Tattoo come off with saliva?
No, but you can try your hardest.
Are we coming to (insert your city) ?
Check our tour schedule, we will be doing a full World Tour in 2013.
Where to find Inspiration?
I find inspiration in everyday life and all around me. I think its just part of being an optimist. Some things make me go, 'I wish I had thought of that', or 'I want to do something like that, but better!' Just find what you love and are passionate about and pursue it.
Tour story ? Funny moment?
Hmm.. soo many... We made a Jinxx cake once. Literally a human cake full of crap we had on the bus as icing on Jinxx himself. Jinxx passed out in the hallway near the living room area of the bus and we all had to climb over him. So in the nite we took out everything from the cupboards and bathroom, cheese whiz, chips, salsa, shaving cream, shower gel, etc. and covered him with it. He slept through it and woke up that way!
What do I think/feel about suicide?
Well, I actually have a lot of personal experience with it, so I have more to say on the topic than I can type. Some background, I've had a couple close friends in my life commit suicide, self inflicted and over dosing on drugs. I've also had close family members commit suicide as well.
In relation to my fans, I don't understand the need to self harm ones self. Cutting is a foreign thing to me only because you're vandalizing your own body that will leave scars on your skin for life. You definitely have to love yourself and respect yourself first. I get depression and the thoughts of feeling suicidal, but my suggestion would be.. Don't be afraid to talk to someone.. anyone. I know things seem bad in the moment, but those moments pass, and you'll be surprised when you reach out to someone how many you will find that honestly give a damn. Never do something to yourself that you can't take back because its never too late. As I said, time passes and things get better. Try and be strong, but most importantly, Love Yourself, despite what anyone else says or thinks. Take pride in who you are.. Its your life, it can be anything you want. Only surround yourself with things and people that make you happy and your life worth living. The best thing would be to stay occupied, have a hobby, do something everyday you enjoy that doesn’t make life seem so bad.
How do I stay fit ?
I’m very active. I workout, run, bike, lots of cardio. I also have a fairly healthy diet. I don’t eat fast food. I don’t eat red meat. I only eat poultry and fish. High protein, low fat. Lots of fruits / veggies.
Biggest influence ? How am I me?
Biggest influence that really had an impact on me and how I am would have to be a late Uncle of mine that passed in 2001. He was a best friend, yet father figure who would expose me to the outside world of the small town where I grew up. To experience the way others lived of all classes and backgrounds led me to be able to appreciate what I have and understand how fortunate I am. Not to take things for granted. Not to discriminate or judge anyone as we don’t know their circumstances. It actually feels very good to be kind to others and feel the same warmth reception in return.
Last words to a fan ?
Use birth control. Stay in school, be educated. Continue to learn and grow.
Any regrets ?
I don’t regret my past, I only regret the time I’ve wasted with the wrong people.
Suggestions?
Try and do a self less deed every day. Just something to help someone else without gaining anything in return. You'll be a better person for it. "