February PunkWife of the Month: Ashley!

This month’s PunkWife is truly a unique pick, because she’s actually not married in the traditional sense. But that’s part of what makes her our Punk. She’s in a solid relationship, she lives her best life, and the only thing ‘missing’ is the fancy party and the piece of paper – which doesn’t seem to be an issue for her. She’ll tell you in her own words, below.

What makes you your own little version of Punk? I think my overall outlook on relationships, and marriage puts me a little outside of the box. I have never wanted to get married and at this point in my life I’m pretty sure that is where I will always stand. I have, however, always wanted to find someone to share my life with. I have been fortunate enough to find someone to do that with. We have been together for about 6 years and the biggest questions we get from everyone is “When are you going to get married?”. My response is always the same: “We aren’t”. I feel like sometimes that makes me a bit of an outcast in society but I’ve never doubted my decisions nor has he. We work just the way we are and we couldn’t be happier.

What was your one biggest PUNK move this year? My biggest punk move this year was quitting my job as a manager at an insurance company and finishing my Master’s in Education, so that I could do what I’ve always wanted to do…teach. My pending 30’s as well as the support of friends and family, really lit a fire under my ass and helped me make the leap. It’s been a struggle, mostly financially speaking, but I wouldn’t change my decision for anything in the world. I absolutely LOVE teaching! Although I picked one of the worst times to become an educator, the only regret I have is not doing this sooner. My advice if you’re on the fence about making a career-changing move is: love what you do, do what you love.

What’s the best piece of advice you’ve ever received? My mother always told me that nothing is written in stone. We have the power to change the things that do not make us happy and to pursue the things that do. It’s not always the easiest road but it is almost always the most beneficial.

Describe yourself in 3 words. Intuitive, Compassionate, and Loyal.

Tell us your favorite go-to recipe. Rigatoni in a pink cream sauce with sausage and peas. It’s normally called Pasta Buttera in a restaurant and it’s one of my all time faves! It’s extremely simple, too. First you saute a small white onion in a little bit of olive oil. Then you brown up crumbled hot and/or sweet sausage (whatever your fancy), usually about 6 links. Once browned, de-glaze with white wine. Next you add a small can of tomato paste and 1 1/2 to 2 cups of water (depends on how thick you like your sauce). Add salt, pepper and red pepper flakes (optional) to taste. Last but not least you add about 1/2 cup of heavy cream and some grated cheese. I usually run frozen peas under hot water and then leave them in the strainer. I poor the boiling pasta into the strainer to cook the peas the rest of the way. Then just add sauce to pasta and enjoy!

Best home tip (decor, etc)? Life is hectic! As if you didn’t already know that 😉 Find a style that allows you to enjoy the space you live in but doesn’t require you to spend 95% of your time cleaning and/or organizing it. Most of your design elements should serve a purpose, especially if you are working with a smaller space.