By Ashley McIlwain I wish so badly that, when we walk down the aisle as bride and groom, we could see each other for all that we really are. Past the pure white and big smiles. Past the euphoria and excitement. Past the notion of a “perfect day.” Instead, transparent with our brokenness, baggage, issues,
By Ashley McIlwain As we kick off 2014, I am amazed at how quickly another year has gone by. It’s been a great year with all of you, and I am praying for blessings over you as well as our marriage ministry here at Foundation Restoration in 2014. What better way to reflect on the
By Ashley McIlwain If I’m being very honest, I’m not one who cares much for watching television. Rarely do I turn it on when I’m home alone because I’d prefer a good book, social outing, or checking off an item from my to do list. Most of the time, TV just isn’t my first or
By Ashley McIlwain For no apparent reason, my husband, Steve, and I found ourselves constantly butting heads. He would try to explain something, and it made zero sense to me. I’d say something, and it would rub him the wrong way. No matter what it was, we couldn’t seem to see eye to eye, and
By Ashley McIlwain One of the unique qualities of marriage is the intimacy that lies within this sacred, one-of-a-kind relationship. The deep level of intimacy shared by a husband and wife is unrivaled by any other relationship we will come in contact with. Choosing someone, out of a world full of possible people, to spend
By Ashley McIlwain The tongue has the power of life and death, and those who love it will eat its fruit. –Proverbs 18:21 What we say matters. It matters more than we think. With our words we can build up or tear down. That goes for our spouse, our marriage, our friendships, and our own
By Ashley McIlwain The other day I was having a conversation with someone about how much perspective plays into relationships, conversations, and our general approach to life. We all have a filter that we sift our observations, discussions, and interactions through, which is why no two people see things exactly the same way. That’s also
By Ashley McIlwain You’ve been waiting for this moment. A break away from work, responsibilities, and the kids. It’s just you and your spouse … finally. It’s more of a rare occasion than you’d like to admit, but here you are. But now what? There’s a moment of panic as the awkward silence takes over.
By Ashley McIlwain Where do we draw the line? Where do we say white meets black in the choices of life? Where does safety end and danger begin? We all face these questions in our lives in nearly every area. When we are dating, these questions often swirl around physical intimacy. How far can we
By Dr. Jeff Klick When I served as an associate pastor for a large church, one perk received was the privilege of hosting many of the biggest names in Christianity. From picking them up at the airport, to taking them to dinner, it was enjoyable to see the celebrities in their own skin, and not
