Seeing Roses
Lifestyle Samantha Macklin Lifestyle Samantha Macklin

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.

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Handcrafted
Pageants, Lifestyle Samantha Macklin Pageants, Lifestyle Samantha Macklin

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.

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Sippin’ Slow in Music City: Nashville’s Best Coffee Spots
Lifestyle Samantha Macklin Lifestyle Samantha Macklin

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.

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Childlike
Lifestyle Samantha Macklin Lifestyle Samantha Macklin

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.

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2022.
Lifestyle Samantha Macklin Lifestyle Samantha Macklin

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.

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Refined Gold
Lifestyle Samantha Macklin Lifestyle Samantha Macklin

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.

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