At Mama Crow’s, we’re always looking for new ways to help you bring comfort, calm, and a little magic into your daily life. Recently, we added incense to our lineup, and we couldn’t be more excited to share it with you.
A New Layer of Ambiance
You might already know us for our wax melts, which fill your home with warmth and fragrance. Incense offers something a little different. While wax melts slowly release scent as they melt, incense creates an immediate, sensory experience. The soft curl of smoke, the rich aroma, and the ritual of lighting it all combine to transform a space almost instantly.
Why People Use Incense
People use incense for a variety of reasons, and it’s not just about making a room smell good. Many light incense to create a calming atmosphere during meditation, yoga, or quiet reflection. The scents can help reduce stress, promote focus, and even inspire creativity. Others use it to add a cozy or festive touch to their home, enhancing a gathering or quiet evening.
Some people are drawn to incense for spiritual or ritual purposes. Lighting incense has been a part of human tradition for thousands of years—whether in temples, homes, or personal practice—to invite tranquility, clarity, or intention into their lives.
Our Approach at Mama Crow’s
We chose our incense selection with care, focusing on scents that are both comforting and captivating. Each stick is designed to offer a sensory experience that can uplift your mood, enhance your space, or just help you unwind after a long day. Whether you’re a long-time incense user or trying it for the first time, we wanted to create something approachable, high-quality, and just plain enjoyable.
Give It a Try
If you haven’t experienced incense before, now’s the perfect time. Light a stick, take a deep breath, and let the scent carry you somewhere calm and comforting. It’s a simple way to add a touch of ritual and beauty to everyday life.
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.
When the summer heat finally eases and fall makes its first appearance, families often look for ways to enjoy the season. Early fall is the perfect time to spend more time outdoors, slow down, and create memories before the holiday rush begins. The best part? You don’t need a big budget or elaborate plans. These bucket list ideas are simple, realistic, and fun for the whole family.
Go on a Nature Walk
Early fall brings cooler temperatures and the first signs of changing leaves. A nature walk is an easy way to get outside without much planning. Local parks, trails, or even your neighborhood work just fine. Encourage kids to collect colorful leaves, acorns, or pinecones along the way. It’s free, simple, and gives everyone a chance to connect with nature.
Visit a Farmers Market
Farmers markets are lively in the fall with seasonal produce, baked goods, and handmade crafts. Take the family on a weekend morning and let everyone pick out something they’d like to try. Apples, pumpkins, and squash are usually in season, and many markets offer fresh cider. Supporting local farmers while spending time together makes this a win-win.
Try a Backyard Campout
Camping doesn’t have to involve packing the car and driving for hours. Pitch a tent in your backyard for a fun night under the stars. Roast marshmallows, tell stories, and enjoy being “away from home” while still close to bathrooms and snacks. Kids love the adventure, and parents appreciate the convenience.
Have a Family Game Night
With evenings getting darker sooner, fall is a great time to bring out the board games or card decks. Pick a night when everyone is home, set out snacks, and let each family member choose a game. It’s affordable and creates plenty of laughs without the need for screens.
Visit a Local Pumpkin Patch
Pumpkin patches are classic fall fun, but they don’t have to be expensive. Many offer free entry, and you only pay for what you pick. Let kids find their perfect pumpkin, then bring them home for carving or painting. Add some hot chocolate afterward and you’ve got a cozy fall memory.
Cook a Seasonal Meal Together
Early fall ingredients like apples, sweet potatoes, and butternut squash make for comforting meals. Choose a simple recipe that everyone can help with—like homemade apple crisp or roasted vegetables. Cooking together gives kids hands-on experience and helps them appreciate the effort behind a family meal.
Plan a Movie Marathon
Cooler evenings call for cozy blankets and good movies. Pick a theme—classic family favorites, fall-themed films, or even a series. Add popcorn and maybe some apple cider for the perfect night in. It’s low-cost entertainment that feels special when planned as a family event.
Explore a Local Festival or Fair
Many towns host small fall festivals or community fairs during September and October. These often include food trucks, live music, or simple games for kids. It’s a great way to support your community and get out of the house for a few hours without spending much money.
Take Family Photos Outdoors
You don’t need a professional photographer to capture memories. Use a smartphone and take advantage of the soft fall light. A park, backyard, or even your front porch can work as a backdrop. Early fall photos are a fun tradition and make for keepsakes you’ll treasure later.
Go Apple Picking
If you have an orchard nearby, apple picking is a must-do. Kids love running through the rows of trees and filling baskets. Once you’re home, bake a pie or make applesauce together. It’s an activity that extends into another family project in the kitchen.
End With a Gratitude List
Fall naturally brings a sense of reflection. Take one evening to sit down as a family and write a gratitude list. Each person can share one or two things they’re thankful for. It’s simple, meaningful, and a nice way to prepare for the holiday season ahead.
Making Early Fall Memorable
A family bucket list doesn’t need to be complicated or expensive. Early fall offers plenty of simple pleasures—from cooler walks outdoors to cozy nights inside. These activities are realistic, budget-friendly, and designed to bring families closer together. When you keep things simple, you’re more likely to actually do them—and that’s what makes the memories last.
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.
Lightning forms when static electricity builds up inside storm clouds. As warm air rises and cold air sinks, ice particles collide and create electrical charges. The positive and negative charges separate until the tension becomes too much. That’s when a bolt of lightning flashes, searching for the quickest path to the ground.
When lightning strikes, it can release up to a billion volts of electricity. The heat from a strike can reach 50,000 degrees Fahrenheit—five times hotter than the surface of the sun. That power explains why strikes can start fires, destroy trees, and cause serious injuries in humans.
Why Lightning Rarely Strikes Twice
You’ve probably heard the saying, “lightning never strikes twice.” While not completely true, it’s uncommon for lightning to hit the same person or place again. Tall objects like skyscrapers and towers are exceptions because they attract electricity. For everyday people, though, getting struck once is already rare. The odds of being struck in any given year in the U.S. are less than one in a million.
The Day My Ex-Husband Was Struck
I know lightning strikes are rare because I witnessed one firsthand. My ex-husband was struck right in front of me. We were leaving my grandmother’s house one stormy afternoon when the rain began pouring too hard to leave. We waited in the garage for it to let up.
He was holding our baby boy, tucked inside his shirt to keep him dry. We had been bickering, like always, because he was a narcissistic liar and I had caught him in another one. I remember him saying, “I swear to God,” and I snapped back, “Don’t you dare swear when you’re lying!” His response was, “F— God.”
At that exact moment, the loudest boom and brightest flash lit up the garage. He screamed—he had been struck by lightning. The blast blew a hole through his shirt, threw his heart out of rhythm, and left a burn across his chest. Miraculously, our baby was unharmed, though in shock.
The firemen later said the bolt likely hit the garage door first and bounced into him. My grandmother, deeply religious, didn’t even want him in her house afterward because she believed it was punishment. Believe what you want, but you’ll never convince me it wasn’t God. Of all people, only that man could be struck by lightning and walk away almost unscathed. Pure evil—but that’s a story for another day.
What Happens to the Body During a Strike
Lightning travels over the body’s surface in a flash, often leaving burns, ripped clothing, or scorched shoes. The electrical surge can throw off the heart’s rhythm, damage nerves, or cause memory problems. Some victims develop long-term issues, while others survive with few lasting effects. Survival often depends on how the strike hits and how quickly medical help arrives.
How to Stay Safe During a Storm
Even though lightning is rare, it’s worth knowing how to protect yourself:
Stay indoors during storms whenever possible.
Avoid standing near tall objects like trees, poles, or fences.
Don’t touch metal or water when lightning is nearby.
Wait 30 minutes after the last thunder before going back outside.
Lightning strikes are powerful reminders of how fragile we are. Some believe they’re random, while others, like me, see them as anything but coincidence. Either way, one thing’s for sure—when lightning speaks, it demands respect.
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.
Many cultures have long believed the moon affects our emotions. While it might sound mystical, science suggests there could be truth behind it. The phases of the moon may subtly influence sleep, energy, and even mood swings.
How the Moon Impacts Sleep
Research shows that sleep patterns can shift depending on the moon phase. During a full moon, people often report taking longer to fall asleep and getting less deep rest. Lack of quality sleep directly affects mood, leaving us irritable, anxious, or low on energy the following day.
Emotional Shifts and Energy Levels
The moon’s light and gravitational pull may play a role in how we feel. Some studies suggest people feel more restless or energized during a full moon, while the new moon often brings lower energy and introspection. Many people describe feeling more emotional, sensitive, or creative around these times.
Historical Beliefs About the Moon and Mood
Ancient societies tracked the moon closely and often connected it to human behavior. The word “lunatic” itself comes from the Latin “luna,” meaning moon, reflecting the belief that full moons triggered mood changes. While modern science doesn’t fully support all old ideas, it’s fascinating how consistent these cultural observations were across the world.
The Science Behind the Connection
Though researchers are still studying the link, a few factors stand out. The moon’s brightness can disrupt circadian rhythms, especially before artificial lighting existed. Gravitational pull, similar to how the moon controls tides, may also influence human biology in small ways. While more studies are needed, many agree the moon can indirectly impact mood through sleep and energy.
How to Work With the Moon’s Cycle
Paying attention to your own moods throughout the lunar phases can be helpful. If you know a full moon leaves you restless, plan for extra relaxation or calming rituals. During a new moon, when energy feels lower, focus on rest and reflection. Recognizing these natural rhythms may make mood swings easier to manage.
Final Thoughts
The moon’s phases might not control us, but they can influence how we feel and function. By noticing these patterns, you can better prepare for shifts in mood and energy.
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.
Everyone has laughed so hard that tears rolled down their face at least once. That kind of laughter is more than just a funny moment—it’s a natural medicine for the body and mind. Researchers have found that deep, uncontrollable laughter releases a flood of feel-good chemicals that improve mood, reduce stress, and even ease physical pain. Unlike a polite chuckle, a full belly laugh engages the lungs, diaphragm, and heart, creating a workout that boosts energy and circulation.
Stress Relief That Actually Works
Life can feel overwhelming, but laughter cuts through tension in an instant. When you laugh until you cry, stress hormones like cortisol drop, while endorphins rise. This natural shift makes you feel lighter and more at ease. Instead of holding onto frustration, laughter acts like a reset button for your nervous system. That’s why watching a comedy or swapping funny stories with friends often leaves you calmer, even when nothing about your situation has changed.
A Natural Painkiller
Believe it or not, laughter has been shown to reduce pain. The endorphins released during hard laughter act as the body’s own painkillers. In fact, studies suggest that people can tolerate discomfort better after a good laugh. The physical release that comes from laughing until you cry loosens tight muscles, lowers blood pressure, and promotes relaxation throughout the body. It may not replace medicine, but it can certainly make tough moments easier to handle.
Strengthening Social Bonds
One of the most powerful benefits of laughter is its ability to connect people. When you share uncontrollable laughter with someone, the bond strengthens instantly. Tears of joy break down barriers, creating intimacy and trust. Friendships built on humor often last longer because laughter helps navigate conflict and stress. In families, laughter creates cherished memories, turning ordinary days into stories retold for years.
Boosting Mental Health
Laughter until tears isn’t just fun—it’s therapy. Mental health experts recognize humor as an effective tool for managing anxiety and depression. Laughing hard brings a sense of perspective, reminding you not to take everything so seriously. It interrupts cycles of negative thinking and replaces them with moments of joy. Over time, building laughter into your daily life can improve resilience and emotional balance.
Physical Health Benefits You Might Not Expect
The effects of laughter reach far beyond mood. Regular, hearty laughter can strengthen your immune system, making it easier to fight off illness. The deep breathing involved improves oxygen flow, which benefits the heart and brain. Some studies even suggest that frequent laughter may protect against heart disease by improving blood vessel function. While it shouldn’t replace a healthy lifestyle, laughing until you cry adds an extra layer of protection to overall well-being.
Ways to Laugh More Often
Finding more laughter in your day doesn’t have to be complicated. Watch a comedy special, read a funny book, or follow humor accounts that genuinely make you laugh. Spend time with people who have a natural sense of humor. Play silly games with your kids or grandkids. The more opportunities you create for laughter, the more likely those tear-inducing giggles will come. And when they do, let them flow freely—your body and mind will thank you.
Final Thoughts
Laughing until you cry is more than a fleeting moment of fun. It’s a medicine that lowers stress, reduces pain, strengthens relationships, and boosts both mental and physical health. The best part? It’s free, easy to access, and enjoyable. So the next time something makes you laugh so hard you can’t stop, don’t hold back. Those tears of laughter are proof that your body is healing in the most joyful way possible.
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.
This weekend came and went in a blur, but it was exactly what we needed. We were up early both mornings, but instead of getting right to it, we stayed in bed until almost 11. That’s not something we usually do, and it made the weekend feel different in a good way.
Friday night we stayed up late making melts and incense with music going in the background. Nothing mind-blowing, just us hanging out and enjoying the time. Saturday was a lazy one—we got up, showered, and moved to the couch. Sometimes that’s all you need.
Today, I was in the kitchen. Santiago asked for homemade lasagna and banana pudding, so that’s what he got. I don’t make lasagna often because it takes some work, but when I do, it doesn’t last long. And no, I didn’t make the pudding from scratch—I’d already put in enough time on dinner.
I thought I would include the recipe for anybody interested. I should also mention: I use ground beef instead of sausage in my lasagna. I don’t eat pork, and the beef works just as well.
Homemade Beef Lasagna
Ingredients
1 pound ground beef
1 small onion, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 can (28 ounces) crushed tomatoes
2 tablespoons tomato paste
1 can (15 ounces) tomato sauce
2 teaspoons dried basil
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon sugar
Salt and pepper to taste
12 lasagna noodles
15 ounces ricotta cheese
1 large egg
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
3 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Directions
Preheat oven to 375°F.
Cook ground beef and onion in a skillet until browned. Drain any excess fat.
Add garlic, then stir in crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, tomato sauce, basil, oregano, sugar, salt, and pepper. Simmer 30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Boil noodles according to package directions. Drain.
Mix ricotta, egg, and Parmesan in a bowl.
Spread a thin layer of sauce in a 9×13 dish. Add noodles, half the ricotta mix, a cup of mozzarella, then sauce. Repeat layers, finishing with sauce and mozzarella.
Cover with foil and bake 25 minutes. Remove foil and bake 20 more until the top is bubbly and golden.
Let sit 10–15 minutes before serving.
Final Thoughts
The lasagna was the highlight of this slow weekend, and honestly, it’s one of those meals that’s even better the next day. It’s a bit of work, but worth it if you’re feeding a crowd—or just want leftovers that actually taste good.
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.
For as long as I can remember, I’ve been an off-season traveler. We’ve always planned our big trips the week after Labor Day, never during spring break or the height of summer. Even our short little getaways usually happen in the fall. Before Santiago went back to a traditional job, our travel window was always September through March. On top of that, we would travel during the week instead of weekends.
I’ll be honest—I hate that we can’t just pack up and go as freely anymore, but that’s a story for another day. What hasn’t changed, though, is how much smarter and smoother it is to travel off-season.
Better Prices
One of the biggest perks of off-season travel is the money you save. Hotels, flights, and attractions almost always drop their rates once the busy season winds down. Back in the ’90s, I started traveling to South Padre Island with my kids right before school started. By that time, families were settling into their routines, college students were preparing for the semester, and it was too early for the winter Texans to show up. The island was practically empty, and hotel rates would fall dramatically. What cost hundreds during peak summer could be booked for a fraction of the price.
Fewer Crowds
Here’s the truth—I’m not a big fan of places that are too “people-y.” Traveling with six kids only made that harder. I didn’t want to drag them through wall-to-wall crowds or have them seeing things little ones didn’t need to see. So while others packed their vacations into spring break or summer, we’d go when the crowds were gone. Empty beaches, shorter lines, and plenty of space to breathe—it just makes the whole trip more enjoyable.
A More Relaxed Experience
Traveling off-season isn’t just about saving money and avoiding crowds. It’s about the overall vibe. When you go in the off-season, destinations slow down. Locals aren’t rushed off their feet with tourists, and you often get a more genuine experience. Restaurants don’t have two-hour waits, tours feel more personal, and you can really settle in instead of feeling like you’re just part of a herd being shuffled through.
More Flexibility
Another reason we loved traveling in the off-season was the flexibility it gave us. Instead of booking everything months in advance, we could grab deals last minute or switch up plans without stressing about sold-out hotels or attractions. Traveling mid-week gave us even more options since most people were tied to weekend schedules.
Why It Still Works Today
Even though our schedule isn’t as flexible now, the lessons stuck. I still plan trips with the off-season in mind because it’s just a better experience all around. While everyone else is flooding social media with their summer vacation pictures, I’m working hard and saving up, knowing my time is right around the corner.
If you’ve never tried it, I can’t recommend off-season travel enough. Better prices, fewer people, and a calmer pace—it makes every trip feel more like a true escape.
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.
Bees aren’t just buzzing aimlessly in the garden. They have one of the most fascinating communication systems in the animal kingdom. Using movements, scents, and even vibrations, bees can share detailed messages with their hive mates—messages that keep the colony alive and thriving.
The Famous “Waggle Dance”
When a bee finds a rich source of nectar or pollen, she returns to the hive to perform the waggle dance. This isn’t just a random jig. The angle, duration, and intensity of the movements tell other bees the direction and distance to the food source. Imagine giving GPS directions without saying a word—that’s exactly what they’re doing.
Scent Signals and Pheromones
Bees also use pheromones to send chemical messages. These scents can signal danger, help recognize members of the hive, or guide bees to a new home. A single whiff can tell a bee if it’s time to defend the hive or follow a leader.
Vibrations and Touch
In the dark interior of a hive, touch and vibrations become essential. Bees may tap each other or use subtle buzzing to communicate. These signals can coordinate hive duties, such as feeding larvae or building honeycomb.
Why This Matters for Us
Understanding bee communication isn’t just a fun fact—it’s crucial for protecting them. Bees are vital pollinators, and their survival impacts our food supply. Learning how they work together helps scientists create better strategies to protect colonies from threats like pesticides, habitat loss, and climate change.
The Takeaway
The next time you see bees buzzing in your garden, remember—they’re not just working. They’re talking, planning, and collaborating in ways we’re only beginning to understand. Their survival depends on it, and in many ways, so does ours.
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.
Leaving home for the first time can be exciting and overwhelming. For many freshmen, this is the first time they’ve slept anywhere other than their childhood bedroom for more than a few nights. The key to easing that transition is making the dorm feel like a true home-away-from-home. Bring items that hold personal meaning—photos of family and friends, a favorite blanket, or a keepsake from your hometown. Surrounding yourself with familiar things helps create comfort in a new space.
Decorating for the First Time
Decorating your first dorm room is a rite of passage. It’s the moment when a blank, cinderblock-walled space becomes your personal sanctuary. Peel-and-stick wallpaper, removable decals, and fabric tapestries are all great ways to bring color and personality without breaking any housing rules. Cozy rugs, plush throw pillows, and string lights can turn even the most basic dorm into a warm and welcoming retreat.
Small touches go a long way—layering bedding for texture, mixing patterns for personality, and displaying books or plants to add a lived-in feel. Your room should reflect who you are while still being functional for everyday student life.
Top Dorm Decor Trends for 2025
Designer Mood Boards – Affordable kits that include color palettes, style guides, and inspirational prints are making it easy to create a cohesive room design without hiring a professional.
LoveShackFancy-Inspired Romance – Soft pastels, scalloped bedding, rattan mirrors, and floral prints are giving dorms a whimsical, cozy feel.
Bold Accents – Cheetah print, cobalt blue, and emerald green are being used as statement pieces in rugs, throw blankets, and wall art.
Comfort Core – Cozy, lived-in style is trending across campuses. Think oversized comforters, plaid bedding, chunky knit throws, and farmhouse-inspired touches. It blends practicality with a sense of warmth that feels very “home.”
Essentials for Comfort and Function
To make the most of a small space, multifunctional furniture is a must. Loft beds with desks underneath, storage ottomans, and rolling carts maximize every inch. Under-bed storage bins keep things organized, while noise-canceling headphones or a sunrise alarm clock can make daily life more comfortable.
For a cozy feel, invest in a good mattress topper, soft bedding, and an area rug. Even a few real plants can boost your mood and make the space feel more inviting.
Making It Yours
A dorm room should tell your story. It’s the first place that’s truly yours, even if you’re sharing it with a roommate. Display your passions—sports memorabilia, art prints, or DIY crafts. Hang photos from home alongside new college memories. The more your room reflects you, the more it will feel like a place you belong.
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.
August carries a certain energy. The days are still hot, the sun feels endless, and the calendar whispers that summer’s wrapping up. It’s that sweet spot where being productive matters, but taking it slow feels just as important. This is the lazy-but-strategic mood—where you recharge while setting up for what’s next.
Balancing Relaxation and Planning
The August mindset thrives on balance. Even when afternoons are slow and quiet, there’s a subtle focus on the bigger picture. Tasks get done, but without rushing. The pace is intentional, and the to-do list is approached with a mix of efficiency and ease.
Rather than pushing through every moment, August invites a softer approach. Small wins matter. A quick tidy-up here, a bit of prep there—these little efforts keep things moving without exhausting your energy.
Using the Heat to Your Advantage
The warm, lingering days can be a perfect excuse to slow down. Early mornings and cooler evenings become prime time for handling important work. The middle of the day? That’s reserved for lighter tasks or even a well-earned break.
By aligning your schedule with the weather, productivity feels less forced. You’re still getting things done, but the rhythm is easier, less demanding. It’s strategic energy conservation.
Decluttering Your Summer
August is an underrated month for clearing out the physical and mental clutter left behind by summer. Those items you bought for a trip but never used? Donate or store them. The random projects that kept getting pushed aside? Wrap them up now, so September starts fresh.
This isn’t about deep cleaning or massive overhauls—it’s about creating space. Even small changes help shift your mindset toward the months ahead.
Planning for the Transition to Fall
There’s a quiet advantage to prepping before September arrives. While everyone else scrambles once summer officially ends, you’ll already be ahead. This could mean revisiting your budget, mapping out work goals, or making small seasonal adjustments to your home.
By taking this slow and steady approach, fall’s busier pace won’t feel so overwhelming. You’ve laid the groundwork without feeling like you’ve been working nonstop.
Rest Without Guilt
The “lazy” part of the August mood is just as important as the “strategic” part. Rest is a tool, not a weakness. Allowing yourself a slower day, a nap, or an unplanned afternoon can boost creativity and focus later.
Instead of seeing downtime as lost time, it’s reframed as fuel. That shift in perspective makes rest feel purposeful rather than indulgent.
Setting Small, Intentional Goals
Big goals have their place, but August is ideal for micro-goals. These are the bite-sized actions that move you forward without draining your energy. For example, reading a few pages of a book instead of finishing a whole chapter. Making a single healthy meal instead of overhauling your entire diet.
These small, consistent steps add up. By September, you’ll notice you’re in a better position without ever feeling burned out.
The Takeaway
August is more than just the end of summer—it’s a bridge. It’s a time to honor the season’s slower pace while still preparing for what’s next. Lazy days and strategic moves can coexist beautifully.
By leaning into this balance, you allow yourself to enjoy the last stretch of summer while quietly setting the stage for success in the months ahead.
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.
