Hi, friends.
I have something to ask you, followed by something amazing for your efforts, and I do not exaggerate when I say so. This is a little outside the norm around here, but really worth it, so please stick around.
If you enjoy the writing, encouragement or breath of air you experience at Draw Near; if this place helps you live more fully awake, might you consider subscribing to receive emails to your inbox when I post?
If so, just click the word “Follow” under “Follow ‘Draw Near’ Via Email” at the bar to your left, and follow the easy-peasy steps. No more unneeded trips online. When I post new, you’ll be the first to know.
In addition, if you are on Facebook, would you think about clicking that you “Like” Draw Near on that little button to the left, right under the archives, where you see those adorably pudgy little girl legs?
When you “Like” me on Facebook (oh, middle school flashbacks), you will receive an update to your news feed that I’ve posted something new and will get the inside track on other good stuff, too.
(By the way, this may be easier for you on a computer than a smart phone.)
Now here’s where it gets really good.
As you may have seen mentioned here before, my mama is the writer of an incredible blog called cooking-spree.com. For as long as I can remember, she’s possessed not only a great way with food and words, but also amazing skill behind the camera.
If you subscribe to Draw Near or “Like” Draw Near, or both, before next Wednesday, February 8th, you will be entered (one entry per person) to win a fantabulous prize – an oversized print of your choice of one of the following photos, taken by my multi-talented mama.
I selected these photos specifically because each helps me find a moment of pause to appreciate the beauty that lives real in this world. And I would love to imagine you enjoying this beauty in your own world.
Aren’t they exquisite?!
Two most fortunate winners will receive the print of their choosing as a result of random drawing — from a shoe, a hat, a bowl. I’ll come up with something classy.
So get subscribing or liking. If you’ve already subscribed or liked, please know how much I appreciate it.
I’ll have another giveaway soon that will include every single one of you’s.
Because every single one of you’s helps make what I do here so enjoyable — for me, that is.
And hopefully for you, too.
I can’t wait to see who wins.

I have already picked the cabbage flowers:) I adore both your and your Mom’s blogs. As we say in the South, I love y’all bunches!
I LOVE those cabbage flowers, too. I think if I were in the running, I may choose this one, as well. Thanks so much for all your support, Auntie. Love y’all too! :)
Great idea and choice of photos Ashley! Too bad I can’t win :(
So glad you like the idea, Bec. I really adore each of those photos. Doesn’t seem fair for you not to be entered as you just subscribed last week. At any rate, I will have another contest really soon. Thanks for all your support in my writing. :)
What a Fun idea! I enjoy every post you and your momma post! Beautiful Ladies you are!
Thanks, Christy! I’m so happy to hear from you, beautiful lady. Best of luck to you in the drawing. :)
I’ve already liked both you and your mom… come visit me on Facebook as well and I’ll give you an … er … hug:) I love both of your blogs and so enjoy reading your posts! Your mom is, indeed, a multi-talented woman and it seems today the apple doesn’t fall too far from the tree;) xo Smidge
Smidge, so fun to see you here again. I checked you out on FB. What fun! (Now I “like” you, too. :)) Thank you for your dear words of encouragement. They mean so much.
How beautiful especially the church. Love all the blogs from both you and Momma.
Mom
Aren’t they beautiful, Mom? I love that church photo. I believe it’s on the Greek island of Crete. So glad you’re enjoying Mama’s blog, too. I sure do.
I just finished baking 2 loaves of the, “Bread for Tomorrow” recipe and for dinner we’re having the roast carrots with crushed cumin seeds both found on Spree’s site and now you’re giving out wonderful art! You both are enriching all our lives! Thank you!
Woohoo! I love it. Thank you, Don. :)
Can’t wait to try those carrots, by the way.
I thought that I had subscribed, but now I know for sure I am. Look forward to getting instant reminders of your wonderful writing. Love you Ashley and your writing too! Can’t wait to see you soon! xoxo
Yes, Karissa D, you’re subscribed! :) So thankful for your comments, friend, and for you. Looking forward to seeing you!
of course all the photos are of such beauty…but i am still in love with the smiling goat. :)
We’ve got to hook you up with that ol’ billy. I’m looking at him right now — he lives in our basement. Makes me smile and think of you.