*cries for both of you*

Apollo, you have been there for me in so many times of need… I am hoping my words can be of some help now…

Ashley and you will make it. You know it, I know it, and most of the people reading this probably know it as well. Her parents are trying to protect her, and are also afraid to let go of her. This is something most parents do. Most of them smarten up, and I’m sure hers will as well. If they don’t, then that’s something she’s going to have to really look at. It will be hard for her, because she may lose her parents… meaning children you will have will miss out on their grandparents… but if she should decide that, I know that you will be there for her and support her.

Either way, things are going to be rough. Have you talked to her parents at all? Maybe you could try talking to them and reassuring them… if all else fails, and this is a BIG THING… maybe when she comes down to visit, her mom should come with her. This will reassure her of how much you both are in love… because anyone looking at the two of you can see it. I know it will be a pain, but I have a feeling there are plenty of beautiful places you and ashley can go to be alone and get away from the watchful eye of mother hen for a little while.

I do know having her mom there would be an issue, but look at it this way, it will reassure her that you are a good guy. Anyone that talks to you for ten minutes knows that. And it would let her see that you two are serious and are in love. If at that point she still isn’t supportive, Ashley may have to make the decision to be on her own and leave on her own. I’m sure in time her parents will accept it, and maybe even be happy for the two of you.

In the meantime, if the decision on her parents behalf is to cut her off… tell her not to flip on them. Flipping out on them is only going to convince them more that she’s not mature enough to handle this decision. It’ll be so hard for the two of you, but maybe she can e-mail you on a library computer, or get a calling card of her own so that she’s not having to use their long distance.

My best advise? Talk to them yourself… and see if her mom will consider coming down with ashley. If that’s the only way you can get to see her, it would be worth it. If she just took off, she may not have a place to return to.

Just tell her to try to keep things cool at home and work out a solution with her parents… if they are being unreasonable, things are only gonna be made more stressful for both of you in they argue all the time.

She can’t lose her family… they are important, just like she can’t lose you. You two just have to be strong… for each other and all the little Apashleys to come!

If you need to talk, or bitch or anything, let me know… I’m here…

I hope I helped and didn’t make things worse… I have a habit of doing that accidentaly