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My husband and i got baptized today (Easter)!! Well we got baptized last Easter actually, and that is when I wrote this post before I got sick and went MIA but please continue reading and watch the video at the end :) I grew up in a Christian home and just never got baptized. I wanted to quite a few times but external circumstances prevented it from happening (no baptism tank, trip was cancelled, covid shut the churches down, etc) so finally I decided: I am not waiting any longer! Today is the perfect day! And I did it! Why get baptized🤷🏻‍♀️? Because Jesus got baptized and commands others to do the same. And if you are a follower of Christ you need to do as he says. ✝️ Some more about baptism: "Then Jesus came from Galilee to the Jordan to John, to be baptized by him. John would have prevented him, saying, "I need to be baptized by you, and do you come to me?" But Jesus answered him, "Let it be so now, for thus it is fitting for us to fulfill all righteousness." Then he consented. And when Jesus was baptized, immediately he went up from the water, and behold, the heavens were opened to him, and he saw the Spirit of God descending like a dove and coming to rest on him; and behold, a voice from heaven said, "This is my beloved Son, with whom I am well pleased - Matthew 3:13-17 Do you not know that all of us who have been baptized into Christ Jesus were baptized into his death? We were buried therefore with him by baptism into death, in order that, just as Christ was raised from the dead by the glory of the Father, we too might walk in newness of life. - Romans 6:3-4 Jesus answered, "Truly, truly, I say to you, unless one is born of water and the Spirit, he cannot enter the kingdom of God. - Mark 16:16 Connect With Me | It's not a conversation until you join in Instagram: @Samantha.Twist Youtube: Samantha Twist  Facebook: Samantha Twist Blog Pinterest: Samantha Twist Blog Twitter: @TwistSamantha Podcast: Twist Talks

Hi friends, Wow oh wow it has been a hot minute! It has actually been about a year or so.... miss me? What happened? Last year I scheduled all these posts to publish while I was on vacation in Hawaii and then while in Hawaii my credit card had suspicious charges on it so I cancelled it forgetting that my blog was linked to that card so it got taken down. At the same time (literally right after I got back form Hawaii) I had some insane health problems and scares I couldn't walk, I couldn't go to work in the office, I was incredibly sick with something the doctors still haven't figured out. My doctor told me it was probably cancer so I went 2 months waiting for the cancer screening thinking I was dying and then it came back cancer-free -- praise Jesus -- but like who tells someone something like that!? All this to say my health and my mindset were not focussed on blogging but now I am starting to feel better, still not healed but I am back in the office 2 days a week and going on small walks again. OH and did I mention that I was also living at my in-law's house for 3 months during this time? YUP! We are so lucky to have family so close by! However, living with a dog in one bedroom of their house and 4 of us all sharing one shower was a bit cramped so we were very excited when the time came that we could move into our new place (just across the street from our old place) Our new place is a charming heritage house (over 100 years old!) sitting on 5+ acres with a few barns and some garden boxes. Because I couldn't leave my house last summer (because of my health) I really got into gardening. Yes, city loving "why do it yourself if you can pay someone else" Sam is now semi-crunchy and doesn't trust the government, health care, or the mass food industry (and I could rant for hours about it so please don't get me started unless you actually really want to talk about it). It was a really sad and lonely summer because I couldn't do so many things I love but I found a lot of peace and happiness while gardening and now I am a little obsessed. I've really gotten into homesteading YouTube channels and also learnt how to make my own pasta at home. But I am still a SUPER novice. Honestly, I am as shocked (if not more) about this character growth/change as you are. My mom just laughs whenever I talk about it because I don't think she ever saw this coming from me. Some other things: We raised over a million dollars for charity We took the boat to visit my family <3 and cam's family got to see where I grew up :) click here to watch We went to Kelowna. this is the video for the first time and here is time number 2 Riverdale (the TV show) had a massive wardrobe warehouse sale and it was one of the best times! I LOVE an insanely good clothing sale that is absolute madness. I went to Glow Influencer night again <3 Hosted our annual friendsmas We spent NYE with our friends in a cabin I got some feral cats - but that will be another post ;) My grandma (American one) died. It really hurt (obviously) but especially so because of covid Cam never got to meet her but her obituary and funeral were beautiful. Anyways, I am happy to be back!               Connect With Me | It's not a conversation until you join in --- but like actually incase I am MIA ever again follow me on instagram Instagram: @Samantha.Twist Youtube: Samantha Twist Facebook: Samantha Twist Blog Pinterest: Samantha Twist Blog Podcast: Twist Talks

Hi friends, You know that Christmas song where it goes "SO it is Christmas; and what have you done?" I think about that each year... sometimes we get to focused on our own day to day lives that unless we really make doing good a priority and part of our routine then it can fall through the cracks... if you are looking (like me) for some ways to do some good during the Christmas season then here are a few ideas. Here are some free ways you can give back to your community this Christmas: Donate your time: Volunteer at a local soup kitchen, food bank, or homeless shelter. Your time and effort can make a big difference in someone's life during the holiday season. Even better: commit to give an hour of your time each week throughout the year!
Send Christmas cards to your neighbors.
Give a compliment: Compliment someone on the street, in the grocery store, or at the mall. A kind word can brighten someone's day and spread holiday cheer. I love complimenting strangers on the street and seeing their face light up!
Pay it forward: Buy a cup of coffee or a meal for the person behind you in line. You never know how much a small act of kindness can impact someone's day. Some people I follow even buy those online starbucks gift cards and post it on their stories for others to use until it runs out :)
Donate food: Clean out your pantry and donate non-perishable food items to a food bank or soup kitchen. Especially now more families than ever are having a hard time getting good nutritious groceries so if you are able to help out that is an excellent thing to do.
Spread joy: Write a heartfelt letter to someone who may need a pick-me-up this holiday season, or put together a care package for someone in need. I know someone in my mother-in-law's bible study dropped off an amazing lasagna and it really blessed the whole family.
Give blood: Blood donations are always needed, especially during the holidays. You can help save a life by giving blood.
Offer help: Help a neighbor shovel snow, run errands, or with other tasks. One of our neighbours was shovelling his driveway and then saw me doing my own and ran over to help me out even though we had never talked before. I will always remember how kind that was of him!
Support a local charity: Donate your gently used clothing or toys to a local charity organization. Or become a monthly donor -- if you can afford a monthly Netflix subscription you can afford a monthly charity donation. Cam and I personally love giving to kids overseas but lately I have been looking more into human trafficking's organizations here like Ally Global.
Spend time with the elderly: Visit a nursing home and spend time with residents, play games, or just listen to their stories.
Donate your skills: If you have a skill, such as cooking, photography, or writing, offer to donate your services to a local charity or non-profit organization. Remember, even small acts of kindness can have a big impact on someone's life. This holiday season, spread love and kindness in your community and bring a smile to someone's face. Connect With Me | It's not a conversation until you join in Instagram: @Samantha.Twist Youtube: Samantha Twist  Facebook: Samantha Twist Blog Pinterest: Samantha Twist Blog Twitter: @TwistSamantha Podcast: Twist Talks Candles: Olumiere.com

Hi Friends, I don't know about you but I never ate lentils growing up. Didn't even know what they were. That is until my dad got a stint in his heart and the doctor told him he needed to eat less meat. Lentils are a staple ingredient in many cultures, offering a wealth of flavor and nutrition in every bite. Whether you are a seasoned cook or just starting out in the kitchen, these five lentil recipes are sure to become a staple in your meal rotation. Classic Lentil Soup: This classic recipe is a perfect way to warm up on a chilly day. Simply sauté diced onion, carrots, and celery in a large pot until softened, then add in lentils, vegetable broth, and seasonings of your choice. Simmer until the lentils are soft and the flavors have melded together, then serve with crusty bread.
Lentil Salad: For a refreshing and light meal, try this lentil salad. Cook lentils until just tender, then mix with diced cherry tomatoes, red onion, crumbled feta cheese, and a simple vinaigrette. Serve chilled for a healthy and delicious lunch.
Lentil Tacos: For a meatless twist on a classic dish, try using lentils in your next taco recipe. Simply cook lentils with spices such as chili powder, cumin, and garlic, then use as a filling in warm tacos. Top with shredded lettuce, salsa, and avocado for a delicious and satisfying meal.
Lentil and Vegetable Stir-Fry: For a quick and easy weeknight dinner, try this lentil and vegetable stir-fry. Cook lentils in a separate pot until tender, then stir-fry with your favorite vegetables such as broccoli, carrots, and bell peppers. Serve over rice for a filling and nutritious meal.
Lentil and Sweet Potato Shepherd's Pie: For a heartwarming and satisfying meal, try this lentil and sweet potato shepherd's pie. Cook lentils until tender, then mix with diced vegetables such as carrots, onions, and celery. Top with a layer of mashed sweet potatoes, then bake in the oven until the top is golden brown. These five lentil recipes are just a starting point for incorporating this versatile ingredient into your meals. Whether you prefer soups, salads, or hearty main dishes, lentils offer a wealth of flavor and nutrition that is sure to please. So, give these recipes a try and discover for yourself the delicious and nutritious benefits of this humble legume. Connect With Me | It's not a conversation until you join in Instagram: @Samantha.Twist Youtube: Samantha Twist  Facebook: Samantha Twist Blog Pinterest: Samantha Twist Blog Twitter: @TwistSamantha Podcast: Twist Talks Candles: Olumiere.com

Hi friends, Working a stable 9-5 job is great but sometimes I find that I am just living for the weekend. So today I wanted to make a list of hobby ideas that someone could do after work - starting with one interest at a time. If you're a fashion lover, there are plenty of hobbies you can explore that will allow you to express your creativity and passion for style. Here are ten hobby ideas to consider: 1.) Sewing: Whether you're a beginner or an experienced sewer, there's nothing quite like creating your own clothes to make a personal fashion statement.
2.) Knitting: Knitting is a great hobby for fashion lovers who enjoy working with their hands. You can make scarves, hats, and even sweaters to add a unique touch to your wardrobe.
3.) Accessorizing: Accessorizing is a fun and creative way to express your personal style. Whether you love jewelry, hats, or handbags, there's no limit to the ways you can accessorize your outfits.
4. ) Fashion photography: If you're passionate about fashion and photography, consider combining the two by taking pictures of your outfits or shooting street style photos of other fashion-forward individuals.
5.) Styling: If you have a keen eye for putting together outfits, consider honing your skills by styling friends and family or even volunteering to style photoshoots or fashion events.
6.) Making your own jewelry: From beading to metal work, making your own jewelry is a fun and creative hobby that allows you to add unique accessories to your wardrobe.
7.) Beading: Beading is a relaxing and satisfying hobby that allows you to create beautiful pieces of jewelry that reflect your personal style.
8.) Hat making: Whether you prefer felt, straw, or fabric, hat making is a fun and creative hobby that allows you to make unique headwear that sets you apart from the crowd.
9.) Personal shopping: Helping others find their personal style and putting together outfits for them can be a fun and fulfilling hobby for fashion lovers.
10.) Vintage and thrift store shopping: If you love finding unique and one-of-a-kind pieces for your wardrobe, consider exploring the world of vintage and thrift store shopping. No matter which of these hobby ideas you choose, the important thing is to have fun and let your passion for fashion guide you. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced fashionista, there's always something new to learn and explore in the world of fashion. Connect With Me | It's not a conversation until you join in Instagram: @Samantha.Twist Youtube: Samantha Twist Facebook: Samantha Twist Blog Pinterest: Samantha Twist Blog Twitter: @TwistSamantha Podcast: Twist Talks Candles: Olumiere.com

Hi friends, Networking is an important aspect of career and personal growth, and it's never too early to start building your network. As a young adult, you have the advantage of being able to build a wide network of diverse contacts, and here are some tips to help you do just that.
Attend events: Attending events like career fairs, networking events, and professional conferences can be a great way to meet new people and build your network. Look for events that are related to your field of interest, and be sure to bring business cards or other materials that make it easy for others to connect with you. Use social media: Social media platforms like LinkedIn and Twitter can be a great tool for networking. Connect with professionals in your field, join groups related to your interests, and participate in online discussions to showcase your expertise and build relationships with others. Volunteer: Volunteering for a cause you're passionate about can be a great way to meet new people and build your network. Not only will you be doing something good for others, but you'll also be meeting people who share your interests and values. Get involved in clubs or organizations: Joining clubs or organizations related to your interests can help you meet new people and expand your network. Whether you join a sports club, a hobby group, or a professional association, getting involved can be a great way to meet new people and build meaningful relationships. Follow up: After meeting someone new, be sure to follow up with them to maintain the connection. Whether it's an email, a phone call, or a social media message, following up is an important step in building and maintaining your network. Be generous: One of the best ways to build your network is to be generous with your time, expertise, and resources. Offer to help others when you can, and be sure to reciprocate when someone offers to help you. Be yourself : Above all, be yourself when networking. People are more likely to connect with you when they see you as a real person with genuine interests and passions. So, don't be afraid to be yourself, and let your personality shine through. In conclusion, networking is an important aspect of personal and career growth, and it's never too early to start building your network. By attending events, using social media, volunteering, getting involved in clubs or organizations, following up, being generous, and being yourself, you can build a diverse and valuable network of contacts that will serve you well throughout your life. Connect With Me | It's not a conversation until you join in Instagram: @Samantha.Twist Youtube: Samantha Twist Facebook: Samantha Twist Blog Pinterest: Samantha Twist Blog Twitter: @TwistSamantha Podcast: Twist Talks Candles: Olumiere.com

Ephesians 4:2 says, "With all humility and gentleness, with patience, bearing with one another in love." This verse reminds us of the importance of showing humility, gentleness, patience, and love towards those around us. As believers in Jesus Christ, we are called to reflect His love and character in the way that we treat others. This includes not only our family and friends, but also those who may be difficult to love or who may be different from us. Humility means putting others before ourselves and recognizing that we are not better than anyone else. Gentleness refers to having a kind and tender heart, even in the face of difficult circumstances. Patience involves putting up with one another's weaknesses and mistakes, and bearing with one another in love means showing love and kindness towards others, even when it is difficult. By practicing these virtues, we not only bring glory to God but also help to build up and strengthen the body of Christ. When we show love and grace towards others, we are demonstrating the love of Jesus in a tangible way and helping to bring healing and restoration to those around us. So, today, let's ask ourselves, "Am I showing humility, gentleness, patience, and love towards those around me?" Let's strive to reflect Jesus' love and character in the way that we treat others, and let's trust that as we do, God will use our actions to bring blessing and hope to those around us.

Hi friends, Making homemade dog treats is a great way to show your furry friend how much you care, and it's also a fun and easy DIY project to undertake. It also can save you money while guaranteeing that you know exactly what is in their food. Here are three delicious recipes for healthy and nutritious dog treats:
Peanut Butter & Banana Bites
Ingredients:
1 ripe banana,
1/4 cup natural peanut butter,
1 egg,
1/2 cup oat flour,
1/2 cup rolled oats

Instructions: Preheat your oven to 350°F. Mash the banana in a bowl and stir in the peanut butter and egg. Add the oat flour and rolled oats, stirring until well combined. Spoon the mixture onto a lightly greased baking sheet and bake for 20 minutes. Let cool completely before serving to your furry friend.
Sweet Po tato & Carrot Chews
Ingredients:
2 cups sweet potato puree,
1 cup grated carrots,
1/2 cup oat flour,
1 egg

Instructions: Preheat your oven to 375°F. In a large bowl, mix together the sweet potato puree, grated carrots, oat flour, and egg. On a lightly floured surface, roll out the mixture to 1/4 inch thickness. Cut into desired shapes and place on a lightly greased baking sheet. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown. Let cool completely before serving to your furry friend.
Chicken & Rice Treats
Ingredients:
1 cup cooked, shredded chicken,
1 cup cooked brown rice,
1/4 cup unsweetened applesauce,
1 egg

Instructions: Preheat your oven to 350°F. In a large bowl, mix together the cooked chicken, brown rice, applesauce, and egg. Spoon the mixture onto a lightly greased baking sheet and bake for 25 minutes. Let cool completely before serving to your furry friend. These recipes are not only easy to make, but they're also healthy and delicious, and your dog is sure to love them. Enjoy!              Connect With Me | It's not a conversation until you join in Instagram: @Samantha.Twist Youtube: Samantha Twist Facebook: Samantha Twist Blog Pinterest: Samantha Twist Blog Podcast: Twist Talks

Hi friends, Cortisol is a hormone produced by the adrenal gland that plays a crucial role in regulating various bodily functions such as metabolism, immune response, and stress management. It is essential for maintaining overall health, but when cortisol levels become imbalanced, it can lead to various health problems such as weight gain, depression, anxiety, and decreased immune function. Here are some tips for improving your cortisol health: Get enough sleep : Sleep is essential for regulating cortisol levels. Aim for 7-9 hours of sleep per night to keep cortisol levels in check. Did you know girls need more sleep than boys? Exercise regularly: Physical activity is a great way to reduce stress and balance cortisol levels. Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate exercise, such as brisk walking or cycling, five times a week. Reduce stress: Stress is a major contributor to cortisol imbalances. Try to identify and eliminate sources of stress in your life, and consider stress-management techniques such as meditation, deep breathing, or yoga. Eat a healthy diet: A healthy, balanced diet rich in whole foods and low in processed foods can help to regulate cortisol levels. Focus on eating plenty of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats. They also say that the first thing you eat should be 30grams of protein. Since learning that I have been focused on having either eggs or a protein powder shake each morning (instead of my usual avocado toast) Limit caffeine and alcohol: Caffeine and alcohol can disrupt cortisol levels, so limit your intake of these substances. Consider adaptogenic herbs: Certain herbs, such as ashwagandha and rhodiola, have been shown to help regulate cortisol levels and reduce stress. Consult a healthcare professional before taking any supplements. Manage your time wisely: Avoid overcommitting and prioritize self-care to reduce stress and keep cortisol levels in check. By making these changes, you can help improve your cortisol health and reduce the negative impact that stress and imbalanced cortisol levels can have on your overall health.               Connect With Me | It's not a conversation until you join in Instagram: @Samantha.Twist Youtube: Samantha Twist Facebook: Samantha Twist Blog Pinterest: Samantha Twist Blog Podcast: Twist Talks

1 Peter 2:11-12 is a powerful reminder of our identity as believers in Christ and the importance of living out our faith in every aspect of our lives. The verses say, "Beloved, I urge you as sojourners and exiles to abstain from the passions of the flesh, which wage war against your soul. Keep your conduct among the Gentiles honorable, so that when they speak against you as evildoers, they may see your good deeds and glorify God on the day of visitation." As believers, we are called to live differently from the world around us. We are not just citizens of this earth, but also sojourners and exiles, looking forward to the day when we will be with our Lord forever. This means that our priorities and values should be shaped by our faith, not by the fleeting desires and passions of the world. But it's not enough to simply avoid sin and evil. We are also called to live in a way that brings honor and glory to God. This means living out our faith in tangible, visible ways, through our words, our actions, and our attitudes. When we do this, even those who speak against us as evildoers will see the good that we do and be drawn to the God we serve. So, today, let's ask ourselves, "Am I living out my faith in a way that brings honor to God?" Let's strive to abstain from the passions of the flesh and to live in a way that brings glory to God and points others to Him. And as we do, let's trust that God will use our faith and obedience to impact the world around us for His kingdom.             Connect With Me | It's not a conversation until you join in Instagram: @Samantha.Twist Youtube: Samantha Twist

Hi friends, Getting a dog is a big commitment and a huge responsibility, so it is important to make sure you have all the information you need to make an informed decision. Here are some things to keep in mind before getting a dog: Time commitment: A dog requires a lot of time and attention. Make sure you have enough time to devote to training, playing with, and caring for your dog every day.
Space: Consider the size of your living space and make sure it is appropriate for the breed you are interested in. Some dogs require a lot of space to run and play, while others are happy with a smaller living space.
Budget : Owning a dog can be expensive. Make sure you have enough money to cover the cost of food, toys, vet bills, grooming , and other expenses.
Lifestyle: Your lifestyle plays a big role in determining the type of dog that will be a good fit for you. Consider how much time you will be able to devote to your dog, and whether you prefer a more active or a more relaxed lifestyle.
Training and socialization: All dogs need proper training and socialization in order to be well-behaved and happy. Make sure you are willing and able to invest the time and effort into these important aspects of dog ownership. It sounds easy but man oh man is it hard - especially when one bad experience can give you a reactive dog.
Age and energy level: Consider the age and energy level of the dog you are interested in. Some dogs require a lot of exercise, while others are more relaxed and sedentary. Make sure you choose a dog that is a good fit for your lifestyle and energy level. really research the breed and consider whether or not a puppy or a senior, etc, is the right choice for you.
Breed specific traits: Different breeds have different traits, such as energy level, size, temperament, and grooming requirements. Research the breed you are interested in and make sure it is a good fit for you.
Adoption vs. buying: Consider whether you want to adopt a dog from a shelter or rescue organization or purchase a dog from a breeder. Both options have their pros and cons, so it is important to do your research and make an informed decision. Remember, a dog is a lifetime commitment and it is important to be prepared for the responsibilities that come with dog ownership. Connect With Me | It's not a conversation until you join in Instagram: @Samantha.Twist Youtube: Samantha Twist Facebook: Samantha Twist Blog Pinterest: Samantha Twist Blog Twitter: @TwistSamantha Podcast: Twist Talks

Hi friends, Getting involved in a charity committee can be a rewarding and fulfilling experience. Trust me - I know. I'm on a committee because of nepotism (aka networking) but in case you don't marry into a family that has their own charity fundraising committee.. here are some steps you can take to get involved:
Research: Look for charities that align with your values and interests. Research the organization's mission, goals, and current projects to determine if it is a good fit for you.
R each out: Contact the charity and express your interest in getting involved. Ask about opportunities for volunteers and if there are any committees you could join.

Attend events: Attend charity events and get to know the organization's staff and volunteers. This is a great way to build relationships and learn more about the charity.

Offer your skills: Let the charity know what skills you have to offer. This could include marketing, event planning, fundraising, or administration.

Participate in meetings: Attend committee meetings and actively participate in discussions and decision-making.

Get involved in projects: Take on tasks and projects within the committee. This will give you the opportunity to demonstrate your commitment to the charity and make a meaningful impact.

Network: Use the opportunity to network with like-minded individuals and expand your professional and personal connections.

Be flexible: Be open to taking on new responsibilities and adapting to the needs of the charity. By taking these steps, you can become an active member of a charity committee and help make a positive difference in your community. Connect With Me | It's not a conversation until you join in Instagram: @Samantha.Twist Youtube: Samantha Twist Facebook: Samantha Twist Blog Pinterest: Samantha Twist Blog Twitter: @TwistSamantha Podcast: Twist Talks Candles: Olumiere.com