More Than I Ever Imagined
After losing my two closest friends from high school, I never imagined someone like Sam would walk into my life. This is a story about unexpected friendship, quiet healing, and the way God shows up through the people who choose us—especially when we feel most unseen.
Seeing Roses
Hurt by the hands of community, I wrestled with bitterness—until Jesus reminded me to see roses, not thorns. This blog is a reflection on forgiveness, compassion, and the healing that comes when we give our pain to the One who understands it fully.
Handcrafted
After 12 years of showing up, falling short, and trusting God through every runner-up placement, He wrote a new ending to my story. This year, my name was called. The dream I once thought was far-fetched was never out of reach for Him. It was handcrafted, perfectly timed, and wholly His. This victory isn’t just mine—it’s a testimony to a faithful God who redeems every no with a greater yes.
Sippin’ Slow in Music City: Nashville’s Best Coffee Spots
Looking for the perfect cup of coffee in Music City? Whether you're chasing lattes or clarity, Nashville's coffee scene offers more than caffeine—it offers connection. From the mission-driven heart of The Well (where I found pieces of myself at 18) to the creative buzz of Frothy Monkey and Barista Parlor, this blog rounds up my favorite cozy spots that serve up comfort with every sip. Come explore Nashville’s best brews, one meaningful moment at a time.
Joy is here
In a season where I gave everything to God—my preparation, my joy, my hope—I was met with both deep disappointment and undeniable peace. Though I didn’t walk away with the crown, I walked away with something far greater: the reminder that even when outcomes change, God does not. He’s the same yesterday, today, and forever. And in His hands, we’re allowed to carry both heartbreak and happiness, because His goodness always holds us through both.
Childlike
Watching a child cry happy tears during a Disney movie reminded me of something we often forget as adults—joy can still move us to tears. Life gets heavier as we grow, but childlike faith invites us to feel deeply, love freely, and trust fully. May we run into the arms of Jesus with that same wonder, knowing He honors every tear—happy or sad.
For such a time as this
In a season clouded by anxiety and low motivation, I never expected a spontaneous pageant weekend to become a turning point—but God did. From feeling far from myself to walking away with the highest interview score, this journey reminded me that just being me is enough. Through laughter, light, and last-minute leaps of faith, I saw God turn my valley into a mountain. His grace always shows up—especially when we least expect it
2022.
2022 was a year of extremes—messy and meaningful, painful and restorative, heartbreaking and healing. Through it all, God was present in every moment. From stepping into my calling as a writer to finding joy in the little things, this year taught me that growth isn’t always pretty, but it is always purposeful. As we turn the page into a new year, may we carry gratitude for what was and boldness for what’s to come.
Refined Gold
Refined gold doesn’t come without fire—and neither do we. In this season of change, I’ve learned that bravery begins where comfort ends, and that God doesn’t waste the fire. From being found in our mess to walking through flames of transformation, He is always refining us for purpose. This isn’t just a story about moving across the country—it’s about becoming the gold God already sees in you.
My Why
Over the years, my ‘why’ for pageantry has evolved—from chasing crowns to chasing purpose. This story is a reflection on how God redefined my reason for competing, how sisterhood became the real prize, and how cheering for someone else’s victory doesn’t mean you’ve lost—it means you’re growing. Because pageantry isn’t just about winning. It’s about showing up, lifting others, and trusting that your time is coming too.
You are worth fighting for
A reflection on the life and legacy of Cheslie Kryst, this post explores the hidden struggles behind the spotlight, the pressure of perfection in pageantry, and the importance of mental health advocacy. Samantha shares her personal journey with anxiety, self-worth, and healing—reminding every girl in the industry: you are seen, you are enough, and you are worth fighting for.