Ilona

21 years ago, in a land far far away, a beautiful baby girl was born to two amazing parents! No, really! I was born in a small city called Eindhoven which is in the southern part of the Netherlands! My entire family is Dutch and I actually didn't learn to speak English until I moved to America when I was 7! 

My mom, my sister, and I packed up our stuff, got on an airplane and moved halfway around the world. For a long time I struggled with the fact that my Daddy lived halfway around the world. I was miserable! But, honestly that didn't last long. (Not that I am saying I stopped missing my Daddy, I just better understand that being halfway around the world from him isn't keeping me from having a relationship with him!)

I was baptized when I was 9. Then when I was in junior high, I started going to a youth camp at Fall Creek Falls. It was amazing. Each year that I went, I discovered something that I could do to be a better Christ follower! I grew so much through that camp. But, honestly I still struggled all the time! As I got older I faced many different struggles. You name it, I probably dealt with it once or twice! I developed a strong case of self pity.

It wasn't until I met my amazing boyfriend Jackson, my senior year in high school, that I understood just how forgiving our God can be! Jackson showed me Christ's love and helped me overcome my struggles. He prayed for me, and together we have grown in Christ! 

Over the past few years in college, I have met so many girls who have struggled just like me. We have been able to share our testimonies and grow closer to God together! I am so blessed to have lived and learned. I can't wait to share more of what God has placed on our hearts with you!

In Love,

Ilona de Ronde