By Ashley McIlwain Forgiveness. It’s such a simple word, but behind it lays an abyss of layers. Layers that many of us struggle with. Layers that all too often we can’t understand or put into practice. It’s just one word, but within its context is a world of freedom or bondage. Forgiveness is something that
By Ashley McIlwain From across the room I watch him. There’s a gentleness in his eyes and an ease in his movements that bring me comfort. The concentration on his handsome face puts a smile on mine. Somehow he embodies strength and tenderness all at the same time. As he strums away at his guitar,
By Ashley McIlwain It’s that time of year where many of us roll up our sleeves to do some serious spring cleaning. We dig our way to the backs of closets ridding them of items we forgot even existed. Things that have gone unnoticed get packed up or tossed out. Corners that haven’t seen a
By Ashley McIlwain “There it is. Another stupid game is on the television. How many games can he possibly watch? How many sports can he possibly keep tabs on? It’s unbelievable!” This inner, sometimes outer, dialogue probably resonates with a lot of you women out there. Your man is seemingly obsessed with sports. He has
By Ashley McIlwain Dating: a fun excursion with someone you love that creates memories, strengthens the relationship, builds the friendship, and excites the heart. We all look at dating differently, but my perception is the above definition I’ve come up with. Since I’ve gotten married, I’ve come to really appreciate dating as a means of
By Ashley McIlwain The other night my hubs, Steve, and I were cuddled up having a movie night, and I was especially struck by the movie we were watching. Most of you have probably either seen it or heard about it; it’s called Taken. The premise of the story is that this girl goes to
By Ashley McIlwain See below for our GIVEAWAY! I remember growing up trying to juggle being a follower of Christ with obeying my parents all while attempting to find my place amongst my peers at school. It was difficult to balance all of that, and there were times where I really struggled with it all.
By Ashley McIlwain Many times falling in love is equated with a leap of faith, and with good reason. It can be scary jumping head first into a relationship let alone a marriage. After all, you are about to make yourself completely vulnerable, which also means leaving yourself completely open to getting hurt. Giving your
By Ashley McIlwain If you have a pulse, then you are most likely aware that Valentine’s Day is looming around the corner. Some jump for joy at that realization while others dreadfully express their disdain for this chocolate-covered day of love. It is arguable that Valentine’s Day is merely a marketing ploy to get people
By Ashley McIlwain When we think about dating, what often comes to mind are two, young, single people searching for a spouse. We may think about movies and dinner or a fun outing full of laughter and flirting. Whatever it is that comes to mind, it’s usually not a married couple out and about. That’s
