A Relaxing Weekend and My Homemade Lasagna Recipe

Posted on August 17, 2025August 18, 2025 by gigis ramblings

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.

Why You Should Travel Off-Season

Posted on August 15, 2025August 19, 2025 by gigis ramblings

Image by Micha W. from Pixabay

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.

How Bees Talk to Each Other (and Why It Matters)

Posted on August 14, 2025August 19, 2025 by gigis ramblings

Image by xiSerge from Pixabay

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.

Dorm Room Trends 2025: Make It Feel Like Home

Posted on August 12, 2025August 13, 2025 by gigis ramblings

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.

Ambient Lighting – LED strips, fairy lights, and portable projectors are turning dorm rooms into multipurpose spaces perfect for studying or winding down.

Japandi Dormcore – A blend of Japanese minimalism and Scandinavian functionality, using low-profile furniture, natural wood tones, and neutral colors for a calm, clutter-free environment.

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.

The August Mood: Lazy But Strategic

Posted on August 11, 2025August 19, 2025 by gigis ramblings

Image by Lukas from Pixabay

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.

A Relaxed and Fun Weekend Recap

Posted on August 10, 2025August 19, 2025 by gigis ramblings

Image created with Canva AI

The weekend kicked off in the best possible way—the hubs got off work a couple of hours early on Friday. That bonus time was put to good use with a little shopping and a stop at one of our favorite local pizza restaurants. A table was claimed, slices were enjoyed, and the afternoon felt like the perfect start to a low-key couple of days.

Originally, a batch of incense was supposed to be made Friday night. Lately, making incense has been a hobby we’ve really gotten into. It’s relaxing, creative, and a little addictive. Unfortunately, shipping delays meant the supplies didn’t arrive in time, so that plan was pushed to Sunday. Instead, attention was turned to candle making. Fall candles were poured, and the excitement was real—three brand-new scents are ready to hit the site this week. The Fall lineup this year is looking like one of my best yet, with cozy fragrances like Pumpkin Creme Latte, Barnwood, Pumpkin Pie, and Spooky Cider Lane ready to make homes smell like the season we wait for all year.

Football, Grilling, and Lazy Saturdays

After a week that included hosting my older grandkids overnight on Wednesday and all day Thursday, I was ready for a quiet couple of days to recharge. I adore them, but they’re full of energy and allergic to sleep, so the house felt a little like a three-ring circus. Once they headed back home to get ready for school, I promised myself a slower pace for the weekend.

Saturday was dedicated to one thing—football. With the season officially underway, the TV was locked in, and the grill was fired up. Ribs and steaks filled the air with the kind of smell that makes you glad you live in Texas. It was one of those days where time passed slowly, the food was good, and conversations came easy.

Games were watched, snacks were enjoyed, and bedtime was ignored. There’s something about staying up too late on a Saturday night that just feels right, even when you know you’ll pay for it the next morning.

A Sunday Mix of Work and Play

Sunday brought more football, but also a little NASCAR for good measure. Between cheering for favorite teams and keeping an eye on the race, some house cleaning was worked in. The incense-making supplies had finally arrived—by drone, which was as cool as it sounds—so a fresh batch was made in the evening. The whole house smelled amazing as the sticks cured.

By the time the work was done, the couch was calling. A new-to-us series on Prime called Elkhorn was started. It follows Teddy Roosevelt, and so far, so good. Two episodes in, and it’s already a keeper. Anything historical instantly grabs my attention, but the fact that it’s about the West makes it even better.

The Little Things That Make a Weekend

Looking back, the weekend wasn’t packed with big events, but it was filled with things that made me happy. Early date nights, good food, football, and small creative projects created a rhythm that felt just right. Candles and incense are ready for the shop, the grill got its workout, and the couch saw plenty of action during game time.

Sometimes the best weekends aren’t the ones spent running around—they’re the ones where you settle in, enjoy the company you’re with, and let the hours pass without rushing them. This one definitely fit that description.

The Science Behind Why We Love Comfort Food

Posted on August 8, 2025August 11, 2025 by gigis ramblings

fried chicken mac peach cobbler potatoes

Image created with Canva AI

Comfort food isn’t just about taste—it’s about the way it makes us feel. From creamy mashed potatoes to gooey mac and cheese, these foods bring a sense of warmth and familiarity that’s hard to match. But have you ever wondered why certain meals feel like a hug in edible form? The answer lies in psychology, biology, and even our personal history.

What Counts as Comfort Food?

Comfort food is typically defined as dishes that evoke nostalgia, emotional warmth, or a sense of safety. While the actual foods vary from person to person, they usually share common traits—they’re rich, hearty, and often tied to family traditions or happy memories.

In the United States, comfort foods might include fried chicken, chili, biscuits, or casseroles. For others, it could be a dish from childhood or a recipe passed down for generations. The key factor is the emotional connection we have with the food, not just the flavors on the plate.

The Brain’s Reward System

When we eat comfort food, our brain reacts as if we’ve just accomplished something rewarding. Foods high in fat, sugar, or salt trigger the release of dopamine—a neurotransmitter linked to pleasure and reward. This creates a temporary boost in mood, which explains why we might crave these foods after a stressful day.

Some research also shows that comfort foods can stimulate serotonin production. Serotonin is the “feel-good” chemical that regulates mood and helps us feel calm. This connection between food and brain chemistry is a big reason why we reach for these dishes when we need emotional support.

The Role of Nostalgia

One of the most powerful elements of comfort food is nostalgia. Many of our favorite comfort foods are tied to childhood experiences, family gatherings, or special occasions. When we eat them, we’re not just satisfying hunger—we’re revisiting a memory.

Psychologists call this “associative learning.” If your grandmother made chicken and dumplings every Sunday, your brain may now link that dish with love, safety, and connection. Years later, even smelling those ingredients can trigger a wave of comfort.

Cultural and Regional Influences

Comfort foods often reflect cultural traditions and regional flavors. In the South, for example, biscuits and gravy or cornbread might be considered comfort staples. In New England, it could be clam chowder. These dishes tell a story about where we grew up and the people who shaped our tastes.

Even within the same family, comfort food preferences can differ depending on individual experiences. That’s why your favorite “warm and cozy” meal might be completely different from someone else’s.

Stress, Emotions, and Cravings

Stress plays a big role in why we crave comfort food. When we’re under pressure, our bodies produce more cortisol, a hormone linked to increased appetite. Comfort foods, with their rich flavors and satisfying textures, provide a temporary escape from that stress.

In some cases, comfort eating is a coping mechanism. While it’s fine in moderation, it’s important to be mindful. Using food as the primary way to handle emotions can create unhealthy habits over time.

The Social Connection

Comfort food is rarely just about the food itself—it’s often about who we share it with. Eating a favorite dish with friends or family can amplify its emotional benefits. Research has shown that communal meals can boost feelings of belonging and happiness.

This is why certain holidays or gatherings center around beloved recipes. The food brings everyone together, strengthening relationships and creating new memories.

Why We Keep Coming Back for More

In the end, comfort food is a combination of biology, psychology, and tradition. It triggers pleasure chemicals in the brain, taps into nostalgia, and often connects us to others. That’s a powerful trio—no wonder we keep reaching for these dishes when we need a little pick-me-up.

So next time you dive into a bowl of creamy mac and cheese or take that first bite of peach cobbler, remember—it’s not just your taste buds that are happy. Your brain and your heart are, too.

If You Feel Behind Right Now, Read This

Posted on August 7, 2025August 8, 2025 by gigis ramblings

Image by Tumisu from Pixabay

We’ve all been there. You wake up one morning and suddenly feel like everyone else has their life together—except you. Social media is showing everyone’s highlight reel, your to-do list is a mile long, and you feel like you’re drowning.

First off, you’re not alone. Second, you’re not as “behind” as you think.

Everyone’s Timeline Is Different

It’s easy to fall into the trap of comparing your life to someone else’s. But here’s the truth—there’s no universal timeline for success. Some people find their dream job at 25, others start a business at 50. Some meet their partner in high school, others at the grocery store while buying frozen pizza.

The pace of your life doesn’t make it less valuable. Your experiences, skills, and growth happen on your schedule, not anyone else’s.

Social Media Isn’t the Whole Story

Scrolling through endless photos of vacations, new houses, and career wins can make you feel like you’re missing out. But remember, you’re only seeing the curated version. Behind the scenes, those same people have challenges, setbacks, and late-night “what am I doing?” moments.

If you want to feel more grounded, try stepping away from constant scrolling for a bit. Focus on your own progress without the constant mental comparison.

Celebrate the Small Wins

One of the fastest ways to stop feeling behind is to acknowledge what you’ve already accomplished. Did you get out of bed even though you didn’t feel like it? That’s a win. Did you knock out a work task you’ve been avoiding? Another win.

Momentum builds from small victories. Each tiny step forward is proof that you’re moving—no matter how slow it feels.

Progress Doesn’t Have to Be Big

A lot of people get stuck thinking they need giant, life-changing moves to catch up. In reality, small, consistent actions add up faster than you think. Ten minutes of reading each day can turn into several books a year. Setting aside a little money each week can grow into a savings cushion.

Don’t underestimate the power of small steps—they can change your entire trajectory.

Focus on What You Can Control

Feeling behind often comes from obsessing over things you can’t change. Instead of replaying what you should have done, put your energy into what you can do next. You can’t go back and redo the past, but you can make one decision today that moves you forward.

Ask yourself: “What’s one thing I can do right now to make tomorrow easier?” Then do that thing.

Give Yourself Credit for Surviving Hard Seasons

Sometimes the fact that you’re still here is the biggest win of all. Life throws curveballs—health struggles, job losses, family emergencies—and getting through them takes strength.

If your energy has gone into simply holding things together, that doesn’t make you lazy or unmotivated. It makes you human.

Your Story Isn’t Over

No matter how far behind you feel, your next chapter hasn’t been written yet. Every single day is a chance to pivot, to learn, to create something new. You’re not stuck unless you decide to stay stuck.

So take a deep breath, give yourself some credit, and remember—you’re not racing anyone. You’re simply living your story at your own pace, and that’s exactly how it’s supposed to be.

How I Built a Business With Zero Outside Help

Posted on August 5, 2025August 6, 2025 by gigis ramblings

Building a business from scratch is no small thing—especially when you’re doing it completely on your own. No loans, no investors, no team—just your own two hands, a deep well of determination, and a stubborn streak that won’t quit. That’s exactly how I built Mama Crow’s, and let me tell you… it wasn’t fast or easy, but it was absolutely worth it.

A Lifelong Hustler at Heart

I’ve worked for myself most of my adult life. I’ve owned a few different businesses and worn just about every hat imaginable— hair stylist, bartender, web design, writing, blogging, marketing, customer service—you name it, I’ve done it. That work experience turned out to be the secret weapon I didn’t even know I had when I finally jumped into the wax melt world.

Years ago, I got a candle-making kit and loved it. But raising six wild, wonderful, and very active kids didn’t leave me much time for hobbies. Still, the interest stuck with me. Then in 2017, Santiago gifted me another kit for Christmas—and that was all she wrote. The spark reignited, and I knew this was something I wanted to turn into more than just a fun project.

From Candles to Wax Melts

I started with candles, learning everything I could while experimenting with different waxes, wicks, containers, and scents. But after digging into the business side of things, I realized wax melts made more sense. They were more cost-efficient, easier to ship, and had less liability than open flames and glass jars. They allowed me to focus on the creative part—making something beautiful and fragrant—without the added stress of insurance headaches and fire risks.

That pivot to wax melts wasn’t just smart—it was strategic. It gave me room to scale the business in a way that felt manageable and low-risk, especially since I was still juggling family life.

I Knew How to Build Things—So I Did

What made this business different from the ones I’d built before was how personal it felt. But I wasn’t walking in blind. I already knew how to build websites, write product descriptions, manage SEO, and create blog content. I’d been using SEO since the early days when keyword stuffing was still a thing (cringe, I know).

So when it came time to launch Mama Crow’s, I did it all myself. I didn’t need to hire out. I knew how to create branding, build a storefront, and talk to customers. All that previous experience suddenly came together like puzzle pieces falling into place.

No Help, No Excuses

Doing it solo doesn’t mean it was smooth sailing. I was still juggling life, grandkids, and everything in between. But I showed up every single day, even when I didn’t feel like it. I handled shipping, social media, customer service, and everything else with no outside help.

I made mistakes, but I learned fast. And the best part? I never had to compromise. Every decision—from the scents I offer to the way I talk to my customers—is 100% mine.

Final Thoughts for Anyone Starting Alone

If you’re thinking about starting something and don’t have support, it’s okay. You don’t need a big team or a pile of cash to get going. Use what you do have. Lean into your strengths, stay curious, and don’t be afraid to learn as you go.

You’re capable of more than you think—and if no one’s told you that today, let me be the one to say it.

How I Stay Grounded This Month

Posted on August 3, 2025August 3, 2025 by gigis ramblings

August always feels like the warm-up act before the main event. It’s not quite fall, but you can sense it coming—and for me, that brings a whole lot of excitement… and a little chaos if I’m not careful. Between gearing up for our annual vacation, preparing for a busy season in my business, and counting down to my favorite time of year, it’s easy to get swept up in the rush. That’s why I make a conscious effort to stay grounded all month long.

Antsy Energy and What I Do With It

I always get a little antsy in August. There’s a hum of anticipation in the air. Our vacation is right around the corner, and while I absolutely love getting away, prepping for it can be overwhelming. A week away from work and real life means I’ve got to plan ahead—not just packing, but making sure orders are done, blog posts are scheduled, and everything is squared away for when we’re gone.

To keep from spiraling, I’ve started turning that nervous energy into action. I make a running list of everything I need to handle before vacation—personal and business. Then, I break it down week by week so it’s not all sitting on my shoulders at once. It’s not a fancy system, just a notebook and a highlighter, but it works like a charm.

Creating Space to Breathe

One thing I’ve learned over the years is that staying grounded doesn’t mean you have to slow everything down—it just means you need to give yourself space to breathe. I build little pockets of calm into my day, especially in August when things start to feel stacked.

Some mornings, I’ll light one of my own wax melts, put on some music, and just sit for a few minutes before I dive into the day. It sounds small, but it reminds me why I do what I do—and it makes everything feel a little less rushed.

I also get outside as often as I can. Even if it’s just a walk around the block or sitting on the back porch with a cold drink, being in the fresh air always recenters me.

Grounding Myself Through Routine

Because this month gets so hectic, I stick to a strong daily routine. I wake up at 5 a.m., pack my husband’s lunch, and take him to work. That’s been our rhythm for the last year and keeping that going helps me feel balanced no matter what else is happening. After that, I get started on work early, which leaves a little breathing room later in the day for whatever August decides to throw at me.

I also go to bed earlier in August than I do in other months. I know what’s ahead—September is full of momentum, then the holidays roll in hard and fast. Rest now means energy later.

Why This Month Matters So Much

August isn’t just about getting ready for vacation. It also kicks off one of the most meaningful stretches of the year for me. My birthday and our anniversary both land in this season, and every year, I take a little time to reflect on what I’m grateful for. That helps ground me in a big way.

And then there’s fall. Y’all know how much I love it. The cooler weather, the decorations, the food, the family time—everything. August is the doorway to all of that. When I get overwhelmed, I remind myself that I’m walking toward my favorite time of the year. That little reminder is sometimes all I need to calm my nerves and stay focused on the moment.

Staying Present, Even When I’m Planning Ahead

It’s tempting to live in the future when you’ve got big plans coming up. But I’ve learned the hard way that if I don’t slow down and stay present, I miss the sweet little things happening right now. The summer sunsets, the slow Saturdays, the final pool days—they all matter, too.

So I keep myself grounded by soaking up these last bits of summer even as I prepare for what’s ahead. I savor the messy middle. I stay in the moment. And I remind myself: there’s no need to rush what’s coming. It’ll get here soon enough.