Best Small Towns to Visit in November

Posted on November 4, 2025November 5, 2025 by gigis ramblings

There’s something about November that just feels like home. The crowds are gone, the air turns crisp, and small towns across the country come alive with cozy charm, fall festivals, and the first glimmer of the holidays. If you’re craving a slower pace before the chaos of December, here are some of the best small towns to visit in November.

1. Leavenworth, Washington

This Bavarian-style mountain village is pure magic in November. The town starts its transformation into a Christmas wonderland toward the end of the month, with twinkling lights, mulled cider, and alpine charm at every turn. It’s the perfect place to kick off the holiday spirit before December crowds arrive.

2. Helen, Georgia

Helen looks like it was plucked straight out of a European fairytale. Nestled in the Blue Ridge Mountains, this little German-inspired town is cozy year-round, but November is special. The autumn leaves are still hanging on, and the chill in the air pairs perfectly with a plate of schnitzel or a glass of local wine.

3. Fredericksburg, Texas

Y’all know I had to include a Texas favorite. Fredericksburg is stunning in November — the crowds thin out after Oktoberfest, the weather’s perfect for exploring Main Street, and the wineries are in full swing. Plus, the town starts decking out for Christmas, so it’s a two-for-one kind of visit.

4. Stowe, Vermont

Stowe is known for its vibrant fall foliage, but November offers a quieter kind of beauty. The last golden leaves cling to the trees, snow might start dusting the mountaintops, and the whole place feels peaceful. Grab a hot cider, explore the local shops, and enjoy the calm before ski season kicks off.

5. Eureka Springs, Arkansas

This quirky little Ozark town is a hidden gem in late fall. The Victorian architecture, winding streets, and forested hills make it a postcard-perfect getaway. November brings fewer tourists and cooler weather, ideal for exploring the shops, trails, and historic hotels that make Eureka Springs so unique.

6. Gatlinburg, Tennessee

When the Smoky Mountains start to quiet down after October’s leaf-peeping rush, Gatlinburg hits its sweet spot. November brings cooler days and fewer crowds, plus you can catch the start of the Winter Magic Lights display that turns the town into a twinkling mountain village.

7. Carmel-by-the-Sea, California

This seaside gem is a cozy dream in November. The weather’s mild, the beaches are peaceful, and the town’s cottages look straight out of a fairytale. Wander the art galleries, sip local wine, and breathe in that salty ocean air before the holiday season kicks in.

8. Beaufort, South Carolina

If you want Southern charm with a coastal twist, Beaufort’s your spot. November brings gentle weather, quiet streets, and Spanish moss-draped oaks that make every photo look like a painting. Take a carriage ride, stroll the historic district, and watch the sun dip over the water.

9. Galena, Illinois

Galena shines in November. This small Midwestern town has cobblestone streets, 19th-century buildings, and the kind of charm Hallmark movies are made of. It’s also one of the best spots for early holiday shopping thanks to its boutiques and local artisans.

10. Woodstock, Vermont

If there was ever a town that captured the soul of fall, it’s Woodstock. The covered bridges, cozy inns, and crackling fireplaces make it a perfect November destination. You’ll find peace, beauty, and the perfect backdrop for reflection before the busy holiday season begins.

The Magic of November Travel

November’s the sweet spot — the lull between the rush of summer and the whirlwind of the holidays. It’s when small towns shine their brightest, offering a cozy mix of quiet streets, warm hospitality, and a slower rhythm that reminds you what travel’s all about.

Lisa Crow contributed to this article. She is a true crime junkie and lifestyle blogger based in Waco, Texas. Lisa is the Head of Content at Gigi’s Ramblings and Southern Bred True Crime Junkie. She spends her free time traveling when she can and making memories with her large family which consists of six children and fifteen grandchildren.

The Cozy Girl’s Guide to November

Posted on November 3, 2025November 4, 2025 by gigis ramblings

a lady cozied up with hot chocolate and a book

November just feels different. The air’s got a chill, the leaves are crunching underfoot, and life seems to slow down just enough for us to breathe it all in. After the chaos of summer and the rush of early fall, November is that sweet, calm middle ground — the perfect time to cozy up, throw on some comfy pjs, get intentional, and enjoy the small things that make life soft and warm again.

Slow Down and Settle In

This month is made for rest. The days get shorter, which is nature’s way of nudging us to slow down, not speed up. I know it’s not a popular opinion, but I love falling back to standard time. This is God’s time, and our circadian rhythm follows it naturally. There’s something peaceful about watching the sunset a little earlier and letting the evening stretch out slow. It’s permission to pause — to read, reflect, or simply sit in the quiet without guilt.

Create a Cozy Atmosphere

If there’s ever been a time to lean into soft lighting, flickering candles, and warm blankets, it’s now. I always pull out my favorite throws, swap bright décor for earth tones, and light something that smells like baked apples or cinnamon sugar. The goal? Turn your home into a little haven where you actually want to stay in.

Nourish Yourself Inside and Out

November food hits different — soups, stews, casseroles, and baked treats that make the whole house smell like home. Lean into those comfort foods, but don’t forget the emotional side of nourishment too. Journal more. Sleep longer. Take long baths. Light a candle and just sit still for a while. Cozy isn’t just about what you wear — it’s about how you treat yourself.

Make Space for Gratitude

It’s the season of Thanksgiving, sure, but gratitude shouldn’t be confined to one day. Keep a running list of small joys — like your favorite fuzzy socks, quiet mornings, or a good book that keeps you up past bedtime. When life starts to feel heavy or hurried, those little reminders pull you back to what matters most.

Savor the Simple Things

Go for slow walks in the cool air. Drink hot chocolate on the porch. Watch a Christmas movie or two. November is about finding magic in the mundane. It’s the calm before the holiday storm — a time to soak in life before the tinsel and to-do lists take over.

So this month, lean into your cozy era. Wear the sweater. Light the candle. Let yourself rest. Because November isn’t just another month on the calendar — it’s an invitation to live slower, softer, and sweeter.

Honoring Life and Love: My Thoughts on Día de Muertos

Posted on November 2, 2025November 3, 2025 by gigis ramblings

Every November 1st and 2nd, families across Mexico and beyond come together to celebrate Día de Muertos — the Day of the Dead. It’s not a day of mourning but of remembrance, a time when the veil between the living and the departed grows thin, and love bridges the gap.

Ever since I was able to spend a significant amount of time in Mexico City, I’ve admired this beautiful tradition. The colors, the music, the marigolds — everything about it is meant to honor life, not death. The belief is simple yet powerful: our loved ones never truly leave us as long as we keep their memory alive.

The Meaning Behind the Altars

At the heart of every Día de Muertos celebration is the ofrenda, an altar built to welcome the spirits home. Each piece of the altar has a meaning — candles to light the way, water to quench thirst after a long journey, and favorite foods or trinkets to remind the spirit of home. The marigolds, or cempasúchil, with their bright orange petals and sweet scent, are said to guide souls back to the land of the living.

For many, the ofrenda isn’t just decoration — it’s a love letter to those who came before us. It’s a space where grief turns into gratitude, and remembrance turns into celebration.

A Celebration of Connection

I’ve always believed that love doesn’t fade when someone passes — it just changes form. Día de Muertos captures that so beautifully. Families gather around gravesites, share stories, eat together, and laugh at old memories. It’s not somber — it’s lively, colorful, and deeply emotional.

The sugar skulls, or calaveras, are playful reminders that death is a part of life, not something to fear. The pan de muerto — that sweet, soft bread often shaped with bones — symbolizes the cycle of life itself. It’s a blend of sweetness and symbolism, much like the holiday itself.

Bringing the Spirit Home

Even if you’re not in Mexico, there’s something to learn from this tradition. Setting up a small ofrenda at home, lighting a candle, or cooking your loved one’s favorite meal can be a meaningful way to honor them. It’s not about getting everything “right” — it’s about connection, love, and remembrance.

For me, I find comfort in thinking that maybe, just maybe, our loved ones stop by when we speak their names or share their stories. Maybe the warmth we feel isn’t just memory — it’s them.

November Blog Goals: Staying Consistent Through the Holidays

Posted on November 1, 2025November 2, 2025 by gigis ramblings

Every November feels like a blur, doesn’t it? Between family gatherings, travel plans, and holiday prep, it’s easy for blogging to take a back seat. But if there’s one thing I’ve learned over the years, it’s that consistency—especially during the busy months—makes all the difference. Whether you’re a full-time blogger or just writing when you can, this time of year can test your discipline, creativity, and focus.

Balancing Holiday Hustle with Blog Goals

The holidays can easily swallow your schedule whole. Suddenly, days are filled with cooking, decorating, and running errands, and before you know it, your blog sits untouched for weeks. That’s why I’m setting a simple goal this November: stay consistent without burning out.

Instead of trying to publish something every few days, I’m focusing on quality over quantity. That might mean batching content early in the month, scheduling posts in advance, or jotting down quick ideas to turn into full articles later. The goal isn’t perfection—it’s progress.

Planning Ahead Makes All the Difference

Planning ahead might sound tedious, but it’s a game-changer when life gets chaotic. A quick brainstorming session can keep your content calendar full without last-minute panic. For me, that means sitting down with a notebook and writing out post ideas for the month—holiday-related topics, year-end reflections, and a few evergreen pieces that’ll still be relevant come January.

If you know you’ve got a busy week coming, get your drafts ready early. Schedule them, set reminders, and don’t be afraid to repurpose older posts with a fresh spin. Readers love a good throwback with updated tips or insights.

Giving Yourself Grace

The truth is, no one’s perfect—and some weeks, things will slip through the cracks. The key is not to give up completely. If you miss a post, jump right back in the next week. What matters most is the commitment to show up again and again, even when life gets noisy.

And remember: the holidays are about connection. If you’re struggling to write long-form posts, try shorter updates, quick reflections, or photo-based content. Your audience will appreciate the authenticity far more than a forced article written at midnight.

Looking Ahead

As I move through November, I’m keeping my goals simple: stay present, stay grateful, and keep creating. The consistency I build now will carry me into the new year feeling confident instead of overwhelmed.

So, if you’re reading this and feeling the same holiday crunch, know you’re not alone. Slow and steady still counts. Every word written, every post published—it all adds up. Let’s finish this year strong, one post at a time.

History of Bobbing for Apples (and Its Spooky Roots)

Posted on October 27, 2025November 2, 2025 by gigis ramblings

Few fall traditions feel as classic as bobbing for apples — that splash of laughter, chilly water, and shiny red fruit floating in a wooden tub. But beneath this wholesome game lies a strange mix of romance, fortune-telling, and superstition that goes back centuries.

From Ancient Harvest Rituals

The roots of bobbing for apples reach all the way back to ancient Celtic and Roman traditions. When the Romans conquered Britain, they brought with them a harvest festival honoring Pomona, the goddess of fruit and trees. Her symbol was — you guessed it — the apple.

Over time, Celtic Samhain celebrations (the holiday that inspired Halloween) mixed with Pomona’s harvest customs. Apples became symbols of fertility, love, and life after death. It wasn’t long before people started using them in games and fortune-telling rituals.

The Love Game

In the 17th and 18th centuries, bobbing for apples wasn’t just a kids’ activity. It was a romantic divination game for young adults. Each apple in the tub represented a potential suitor. If a girl could bite into one on her first try, it meant she’d marry that person. A second or third attempt predicted a rockier road to love. It was lighthearted fun, but many people believed the results revealed their romantic fate.

From Parlor Game to Halloween Classic

As time passed, apple bobbing lost its romantic meaning and became a common party game, especially during fall harvest celebrations in the U.S. By the early 1900s, it was a Halloween staple — a simple, safe way to bring friends and families together for some messy fun.

A Splash of Spookiness

Even though it’s playful today, bobbing for apples still carries a hint of mystery. Apples have long been tied to the supernatural — from the forbidden fruit in the Garden of Eden to the idea that slicing one open on Halloween night could reveal your future lover’s initials. The water, too, symbolizes the barrier between the living and the spirit world in old folklore. So that innocent tub of apples? It’s got centuries of magic and myth swirling around in it.

Why We Still Love It

In an era of haunted houses and high-tech scares, there’s something charming about a game so simple and traditional. Bobbing for apples connects us to old harvest festivals, early Halloween traditions, and that shared excitement of fall gatherings.

So next time you see a tub of apples at a festival or fall fair, remember — you’re taking part in a tradition that’s been around for over two thousand years. And maybe, just maybe, there’s still a little magic floating in that water.

Witchy Affirmations for the Spooky Season

Posted on October 26, 2025November 2, 2025 by gigis ramblings

Every year when October rolls around, there’s a certain magic in the air. The evenings stretch longer, candles flicker in windows, and something about the season feels beautifully nostalgic. It’s not about spells or rituals—it’s about that cozy, mysterious energy that makes you believe in possibility again.

Whether you’re curled up watching classic Halloween movies, lighting your favorite candle, or just soaking in the glow of fall, these “witchy” affirmations are meant to capture that feeling of wonder.

Channeling the Magic of the Season

You don’t have to be a witch to feel the charm of October. The season itself seems to whisper reminders of transformation, mystery, and gratitude.

Affirmations to set the mood:

I welcome the quiet magic of autumn nights.
I am surrounded by warmth, comfort, and peace.
I let go of what’s behind and make room for what’s next.
My spirit glows like candlelight in the dark.
I am open to small moments of wonder every day.

These simple words help you slow down and breathe in everything that makes this season special.

Finding Calm in the Shadows

Halloween may be playful and spooky, but it also brings reflection. Cooler air and darker evenings invite us to rest, to think, and to just be.

Affirmations for comfort and balance:

I am safe, calm, and grounded.
The stillness of fall brings me peace.
I honor where I’ve been and where I’m going.
I am exactly where I need to be.
I let my heart find calm in the quiet moments.

Sometimes, the most magical thing we can do is sit still and listen to the hush of an October night.

Embracing Nostalgia and Whimsy

From pumpkin patches to haunted hayrides, the spooky season stirs up memories that never fade. There’s childlike joy in carving pumpkins or catching the scent of cinnamon and woodsmoke.

Affirmations for a cozy heart:

I find joy in the simple things.
My heart is light, my spirit playful.
I carry my favorite memories into this season.
I celebrate the charm and mystery of autumn.
I let laughter and love fill my home like candlelight.

These moments may be small, but they’re what make this time of year feel like pure magic.

Closing Thoughts

You don’t need a broomstick or a spellbook to enjoy the witchy side of fall. Sometimes, it’s enough to light a candle, pour a warm drink, and let yourself get lost in the nostalgia of it all.

After all, the real magic of the spooky season isn’t found in potions or charms—it’s in the feelings it stirs, the memories it brings back, and the calm it leaves behind.

Haunted Texas: Urban Legends That’ll Make You Keep the Lights On

Posted on October 25, 2025November 2, 2025 by gigis ramblings

Texas may be known for its BBQ, football, and Friday night lights — but come October, those lights flicker just a little longer. The Lone Star State’s wide-open plains, rolling hills, and dusty backroads hold more than tumbleweeds and cattle. They’re home to some of the creepiest, most hair-raising legends that have spooked generations.

So grab your blanket, light your favorite fall candle, and settle in for a little Texas terror.

The Donkey Lady of San Antonio

San Antonio might be known for the River Walk and tacos, but it’s also home to one of Texas’s strangest tales — the Donkey Lady. Legend says a woman was horribly burned in a fire set by a cruel husband, leaving her face disfigured and her hands fused into hoof-like stumps. Locals swear her ghost haunts the Donkey Lady Bridge, her donkey-like wails echoing through the night if you dare call her name.

El Muerto – The Headless Horseman of South Texas

Down in the brush country near Ben Bolt, folks have whispered about El Muerto for over a century. This headless horseman rides under the moonlight — a decapitated bandit whose head was nailed to a saddle horn by Texas Rangers after his death. They say his ghost still gallops across the plains, searching for his missing head.

The Ghosts of the Alamo

The Alamo’s story is written in blood and bravery, but many say the battle never truly ended. Visitors and guards have reported seeing spectral soldiers standing watch at night, still protecting the mission’s hallowed ground. Even in death, those defenders haven’t left their post.

La Llorona – The Weeping Woman

No Texas ghost story list is complete without La Llorona. Her tale stretches across generations and cultures — a mother who drowned her children in a fit of grief and madness, only to be condemned to wander the rivers forever, weeping for them. Many claim to hear her cries near creeks and waterways throughout South Texas.

The Lake Worth Monster

Back in 1969, Fort Worth locals were terrified by reports of a half-man, half-goat creature roaming the Lake Worth area. Witnesses said it had scales and fur, glowing eyes, and a stench that could knock you flat. Whether it was a prank gone wrong or a genuine cryptid, the Lake Worth Monster remains a Texas legend that refuses to die.

The Emily Morgan Hotel – San Antonio’s Most Haunted Stay

Right across from the Alamo sits the beautiful, eerie Emily Morgan Hotel. Once a medical building with a morgue in the basement, guests today report strange noises, ghostly figures, and phones that ring with no one on the line. Some say it’s the most haunted hotel in Texas — and it’s easy to believe when the air gets cold in those old hallways.

The Menger Hotel

Another San Antonio haunt, the Menger has seen its share of famous guests — including Teddy Roosevelt himself. But he’s not the only one said to linger. Patrons have reported seeing spirits in 19th-century attire, including a ghostly chambermaid who still tends to her duties in the afterlife.

The Ozark Howler

Up in the wooded hills near the Texas-Arkansas border lurks a beast folks call the Ozark Howler — a large, black creature with glowing red eyes and a scream that sounds like a mix between a wolf’s howl and a woman’s shriek. Hunters swear it’s real, though most won’t stick around long enough to find out.

The Wampus Cat

A shapeshifting creature from Cherokee legend, the Wampus Cat prowls the woods of East Texas. Described as half-woman, half-mountain lion, she’s said to stalk those who wander too deep into her territory. Her glowing eyes are the last thing unlucky travelers ever see.

The White Lady of Rio Frio

The quiet beauty of the Rio Frio hides a heartbreaking tale. The White Lady is said to be the ghost of a young woman named Maria who died of a broken heart after her lover married another. Her spirit still roams the Frio River, especially on moonlit nights, watching over children as they sleep.

The Black-Eyed Children of Abilene

If you ever hear a knock at your door late at night, don’t answer — not if it’s the Black-Eyed Children. These pale, expressionless kids reportedly appear in pairs, asking to be let in. Their pitch-black eyes and unsettling calmness send most folks running. Legend says bad luck — or worse — follows anyone who invites them inside.

La Lechuza – The Owl Witch

In South Texas, folks fear La Lechuza — a witch who can transform into a giant owl. She’s said to swoop down on those who cross her, her cries mimicking a baby’s wail to lure victims outside. Some folks hang crosses or keep salt by the door to keep her away.

Bonus Texas Legends to Watch Out For

The Goatman’s Bridge (Denton): A vengeful half-goat spirit said to haunt a bridge where unspeakable acts once occurred.
The Catfish of White Rock Lake: An enormous catfish big enough to swallow a man whole.
The Saratoga Light: A glowing orb that floats along the Ghost Road in Hardin County — maybe a railroad worker searching for his lost headlight… or his lost life.

Final Reflections

Texas may be proud and bold, but it’s also haunted and restless. From ghostly soldiers to headless riders, from crying women to shape-shifting witches — these stories have lingered for generations, whispered around campfires and down dirt roads.

So next time the wind rustles through the mesquite and you hear something move out by the fence line — well, don’t look too hard. Some legends are best left alone.

Strange Historical Disappearances That Remain Unsolved

Posted on October 21, 2025November 2, 2025 by gigis ramblings

Some stories from history stick with you long after you hear them. They’re eerie, mysterious, and downright baffling—people who simply vanished without a trace. As the air cools and spooky season creeps in, there’s no better time to revisit some of the strangest disappearances that still haunt historians and armchair detectives alike.

The Lost Colony of Roanoke

Back in 1587, a group of over 100 settlers established the Roanoke Colony off the coast of North Carolina. Their governor, John White, returned to England for supplies—but when he came back three years later, every single colonist was gone. The only clue? The word “CROATOAN” carved into a post. No bodies. No struggle. No answers. To this day, no one knows if the colonists were killed, kidnapped, or absorbed into local tribes. It’s one of America’s oldest and eeriest mysteries.

The Vanishing of the Mary Celeste

In 1872, the Mary Celeste was found adrift in the Atlantic Ocean with everything perfectly intact—cargo untouched, meals half-eaten, and no sign of struggle. Yet the captain, his family, and crew had vanished. The lifeboat was missing, but the ship was seaworthy and stocked. Some say pirates, others whisper about sea monsters or mutiny gone wrong. Whatever happened, the Mary Celeste still drifts through legend as the ghost ship of the Atlantic.

The Disappearance of Amelia Earhart

In 1937, aviation pioneer Amelia Earhart set out to circumnavigate the globe—but somewhere over the Pacific, she disappeared. Despite massive search efforts, no wreckage or remains were ever found. Theories range from crashing on a remote island to being captured as a spy, but the truth remains out of reach. Earhart’s courage and mystery live on, a haunting reminder that even the sky can keep its secrets.

The Missing Sodder Children

On Christmas Eve 1945 in Fayetteville, West Virginia, the Sodder family home burned to the ground. Five of the ten children were never seen again. Their bodies were never found, and the fire seemed too short to have completely destroyed them. The family received strange calls before and after the blaze, and witnesses reported seeing the children alive afterward. Was it arson? Kidnapping? The truth may have burned away with the house.

The Vanished Village of Anjikuni Lake

In the 1930s, a fur trapper in northern Canada stumbled upon something chilling—the entire Inuit village of Anjikuni Lake had disappeared. Fires still smoldered, meals sat unfinished, and dogs were found starved and frozen in their harnesses. No footprints. No bodies. Just silence. Whether it was mass migration, myth, or something otherworldly, no trace of the villagers was ever found.

The Flight of Frederick Valentich

In 1978, 20-year-old Australian pilot Frederick Valentich radioed air traffic control claiming a mysterious aircraft was hovering above him. Moments later, he said, “It’s not an aircraft,” before his transmission cut out. His plane was never found, and no one knows what he saw. UFO theorists love this one—but even skeptics admit, it’s chilling to imagine what he encountered in those final moments.

The Mystery of the Flannan Isles Lighthouse

In 1900, three lighthouse keepers vanished from the remote Flannan Isles off Scotland’s coast. The table was set for dinner, a chair was knocked over, and one man’s coat was left behind. A logbook entry described a “terrible storm” even though no such weather was reported in the area. Did a wave sweep them away? Or did something else come calling on that lonely rock in the sea?

The Eerie Legacy of These Mysteries

From vanished villages to ghost ships and missing aviators, these stories remind us how fragile human presence can be. They’re strange, sad, and fascinating all at once—perfect fuel for a fall night when the wind howls and the shadows stretch long. The world still hides its secrets, and sometimes, the scariest part is that we may never uncover the truth.

Why Halloween Attracts Urban Legends

Posted on October 20, 2025October 22, 2025 by gigis ramblings

Every year, as Halloween night creeps closer, strange stories seem to rise from the shadows. Tales of poisoned candy, haunted houses, and mysterious figures stalking the streets make their rounds — even in our digital age. But why does Halloween attract so many urban legends? The answer lies in our history, our fears, and the powerful mix of imagination and tradition that define this spooky season.

A Holiday Rooted in Fear and Mystery

Halloween’s roots stretch back to the ancient Celtic festival of Samhain — a night when it was believed the veil between the living and the dead was thinnest. People feared wandering spirits and wore disguises to hide from them. Over time, these old superstitions evolved, but that eerie atmosphere stuck around. The holiday itself invites stories about what might be lurking just beyond the candlelight.

The Power of Storytelling

Humans have always loved to tell scary stories. They’re thrilling, easy to remember, and even serve as lessons or warnings. Halloween, being a celebration of the macabre, practically begs for storytelling. Around this time of year, tales spread faster than any ghost — from campfire whispers to viral posts online.

Urban legends like razor blades in candy or the “killer in the backseat” work so well because they blend everyday life with fear. They feel close enough to be real, which makes them irresistible to repeat.

Media and the Fear Factor

Movies, TV shows, and news headlines all feed the legend machine. Each October, local reports of “tainted candy” or “strange sightings” pop up, even when there’s no proof. Horror films released during Halloween season also keep those fears alive — transforming rumors into cultural icons. Freddy Krueger, Michael Myers, and Bloody Mary all trace their fame to the same human urge to fear what we can’t control.

A Safe Scare

Part of Halloween’s magic is that it lets people flirt with fear in a safe way. Urban legends fit right in — they give us chills without real danger. Believing (just a little) in these tales adds excitement to the season. It’s a shared experience: we laugh, we get spooked, and we keep the stories alive for the next generation.

The Legends Live On

As long as Halloween exists, urban legends will too. Each year brings new versions — digital-age horror stories about hacked phones, cursed videos, or haunted apps. The details may change, but the reason stays the same: Halloween feeds on mystery, and we love to be scared together.

Fifty. And Honestly… I’m Not Sure How I Feel About It

Posted on October 19, 2025October 20, 2025 by gigis ramblings

Tomorrow I turn fifty. And to be honest, I don’t feel like celebrating. I’m not dreading it exactly, but I sure don’t feel like throwing confetti either. It’s this weird mix of gratitude and disbelief — like I blinked and somehow half a century just… happened.

Don’t get me wrong — I’m grateful. Lord knows I am. I’ve lost some people I loved deeply — two of my very best friends — far too soon. Their birthdays stopped coming, their laughter now just echoes in old stories and memories. So I know how lucky I am to still be here. To wake up, breathe, and live another day. That’s a blessing I don’t take lightly.

But even with all that gratitude, I can’t shake this strange feeling. It’s like time snuck up behind me while I was busy raising kids, working, paying bills, and just living. I swear some days I still feel thirty. And then other days I catch a glimpse of myself in the mirror, or my knees pop when I stand, and I think, “Well… there it is. Fifty.”

It’s not that I’m scared of aging. It’s more like I’m stunned by it. How did I get here so fast? Where did the years go? I remember when fifty sounded old. Now I’m here, and it doesn’t feel old — it just feels… different. Like I’ve crossed into a new chapter that I didn’t realize I was writing.

There’s also this quiet shift that happens as you get older. The things that once felt so important — the hustle, the noise, the constant need to prove yourself — start to fade. You start craving peace more than perfection. You want real conversations, slower mornings, and people who feel like home.

And maybe that’s the silver lining of fifty. You care less about impressing the world and more about actually enjoying the one you’ve built.

Still, I’d be lying if I said it’s all peace and perspective. There’s a part of me that aches for the people I’ve lost — for the years that won’t come back, for the chances I didn’t take, and for the time that slipped away in a toxic relationship.

But even through that ache, I can feel gratitude sitting right beside it. Gratitude that I got to love those people. Gratitude that I still have time to do the things that make my heart happy. Gratitude that I’m still standing, still learning, still growing — even if I don’t always want to blow out the candles and pretend to be thrilled about it.

So no, I’m not throwing a big party. I don’t need balloons or streamers or a fancy dinner. I just need a quiet moment to say thank you — for the lessons, the memories, and the strength that got me here.

Fifty may not be the milestone I’m jumping up and down about, but it’s one I’m learning to respect. Because it means I’ve lived. I’ve loved. I’ve lost. And I’m still here — a little wiser, a little softer, and maybe just starting to understand what really matters.