best friends

Image by Olya Adamovich from Pixabay

You know that feeling when you meet someone, and within five minutes you’re thinking, Yep, we could absolutely cause a little trouble together? Not in a let’s-get-arrested way—though I won’t rule that out—but in a we get each other kind of way. That, my friend, is how I know someone is my kind of person.

It’s not always obvious at first. Sometimes it sneaks up on you, like when you bond over the same childhood snack or a mutual hatred for folding laundry. But there are a few telltale signs I’ve learned to spot over the years. Let’s get into it.

They Laugh at the Same Ridiculous Stuff

If you can cackle over the same offbeat meme, sarcastic one-liner, or poorly timed dad joke—I already like you. I’m not talking about fake politeness laughter either. I mean the deep, belly-shaking kind that makes you wipe tears and say, “Stop, I can’t breathe!”

Bonus points if they can deliver a joke just as well as they can appreciate one. My kind of people know how to be both the comic and the audience.

They’re Not Scared of a Little Real Talk

Listen, I don’t have time for surface-level small talk all day. If you can go from “How’s your day?” to “Here’s what keeps me up at night” in one conversation—we’re gonna be just fine.

I like people who can shoot the breeze about reality TV one second, then flip the script and talk about their biggest fears or deepest dreams without skipping a beat. Life’s too short to fake it, and my kind of folks? They keep it real.

They Love Food Like I Do

Food is my love language. I can tell real quick if you’re my people based on how you react to a plate of nachos or always ready to make a late-night taco stand run. If you’re the type who sends pictures of what you’re eating or invites people over just because you made too much banana pudding—you’re in.

Also, if we both agree that late-night snacks hit different and there’s no such thing as “too much cheese,” you might as well go ahead and move in.

They’re Loyal Without Even Trying

I don’t need someone who’s perfect. I need someone who’s solid. If you’re the type to show up without being asked, defend your people without hesitation, and still check in just because—it’s already settled. You’re one of mine.

My kind of people don’t keep score. They give, they love, they stay—and not for attention or points. It’s just who they are. That kind of loyalty? Rare as a gas station with clean bathrooms. And when I find it, I hold on tight.

They’re Just the Right Amount of Weird

Let me tell you, boring people stress me out. If you can be weird with me—like we make up songs about the dog weird—you’re my kind of person. Life’s already hard. I want the kind of friend who sends me random voice memos, talks to plants, or names their car.

It’s the quirks that make the connection. I don’t need polished. I need genuine. And a little weirdness? That’s the secret ingredient.

They Show Up in the Little Ways

It’s not just about grand gestures. Sometimes, it’s the text that says, “Thought of you when I saw this,” or the person who always tags you in stuff because they know it’ll make you smile.

It’s remembering your favorite scent or calling you out (lovingly) when you’re being dramatic. My kind of person knows the power of small things done with a big heart.

They Let Me Be Me

This one right here might be the most important. If I can fully be myself around you—no code-switching, no eggshells, no overthinking—you’ve passed the ultimate test.

Whether I’m being loud and silly or quiet and deep, you never make me feel like I need to shrink to fit in. You see me, flaws and all, and still stick around. That’s everything.

Final Thoughts

At the end of the day, my kind of people make life easier. They bring peace, not pressure. They make me laugh when I feel like crying and remind me who I am when I forget.

They’re the ones who feel like home, even if we’ve only just met. And if you’ve got someone like that in your life—hold onto them tight. Tell them. Celebrate them. Because finding your kind of people? That’s one of the best parts of this whole messy, beautiful 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 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.

cleveland

Cleveland, Ohio, is a proud Midwest city perched on the shores of Lake Erie, offering a mix of culture, sports, history, and heart. Known for its deep industrial roots and musical legacy, Cleveland has redefined itself as a destination worth exploring. Whether you’re visiting museums, catching a game, or strolling the waterfront, you’ll find plenty to love in this underrated gem. So, pack your bags and head to the North Coast for a surprising and soulful getaway.

Cleveland Botanical garden

Interesting Facts

  • Rock and Roll Hall of Fame: Cleveland is the birthplace of the term “rock and roll” and home to this iconic museum that honors the genre’s greatest legends.
  • Lake Erie Views: The city sits along one of the Great Lakes, offering beaches, boating, and beautiful sunsets over the water.
  • Movie Magic: Scenes from classics like A Christmas Story and The Avengers were filmed in Cleveland. You can even visit the actual Christmas Story House.
  • Historic Market: West Side Market has been serving Cleveland since 1912 and remains one of the oldest public markets in the country.
Cleveland at night

Useful Information

  • Best Time to Visit: Late spring (May to June) and early fall (September to October) offer ideal temperatures and fewer crowds.
  • What to Wear: Pack layers, especially if you’re visiting in spring or fall. Bring comfortable shoes for exploring downtown and waterfront areas.
  • Getting Around: Cleveland’s RTA rail and bus system is reliable, but having a car can help if you’re venturing beyond downtown or the lakefront.
cleveland mall

What to Do

  • Visit the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame: Explore seven floors of exhibits showcasing rock legends, memorabilia, and interactive displays.
  • Tour the Christmas Story House: Fans of the holiday classic can walk through the actual house from the film and even stay overnight.
  • Walk Around University Circle: This neighborhood is home to several top attractions, including the Cleveland Museum of Art and the Museum of Natural History.
  • Catch a Game: Cleveland is a sports town—whether it’s the Guardians, Browns, or Cavaliers, the locals are passionate year-round.
  • Relax at Edgewater Park: This lakeside park offers trails, picnic spots, and a sandy beach—perfect for a little outdoor downtime.

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 is the next installment in the Let’s Travel to…series, a collection of short informational articles covering some of the world’s top travel destinations.

typewriter

Image by Markus Winkler from Pixabay

Summer is chaos, y’all. Between family time, BBQs, weekend trips, the grandbabies running wild, and trying to stay cool in this Texas heat—content creation can feel like herding cats. But batching content? That’s how I survive it.

If you’re a blogger, small biz owner, or just trying to keep your social feeds alive while living your life, let me show you how I batch summer content without pulling my hair out.

Why I Batch in the First Place

I don’t want to spend every sunny day hunched over my laptop. I want to be outside with the hubs, tossing something on the grill or floating in the pool with a cold drink. Batching lets me do that.

By setting aside a few focused hours each week, I can knock out blog posts, social captions, and graphics ahead of time—so the content rolls out even when I’m offline.

Step 1: I Start With a Master Plan

First thing’s first—I grab my planner and jot down every blog, post, idea, or promo I need to push during the month. This includes:

  • Blog post topics
  • Product promos or launches
  • Newsletter themes
  • Social media post ideas
  • Seasonal reminders (like swapping to fall scents!)

Then I sort everything by week and match the heavier stuff (like blog posts) with lighter tasks (like IG Stories). That way I don’t get burnt out all in one day.

Step 2: I Use Templates Like a Pro

I don’t reinvent the wheel every time. I’ve got templates for everything—from blog post layouts to Pinterest pins to Instagram captions.

For example:

  • Blog posts always follow a tried-and-true structure with headings
  • My social captions follow formats like: “Question + personal touch + call to action”
  • Pinterest graphics are all made in batches with plug-and-play designs

Templates are the secret sauce that keeps my batching quick and easy.

Step 3: I Batch by Type, Not Platform

Trying to write a blog post, edit a Reel, and design pins in one sitting is a recipe for burnout. Instead, I batch by type of task:

  • Writing Day: I write blog posts, captions, or product descriptions
  • Design Day: I make all graphics, thumbnails, and story templates
  • Scheduling Day: I load it all into platforms like Canva, Tailwind, or Meta

This keeps my brain from switching gears too often—and everything gets done faster.

Step 4: I Use the Weather to My Advantage

It’s hot in Texas. Real hot. So I plan my batching sessions during those brutal afternoon hours when I don’t want to step foot outside anyway.

I’ll turn on a documentary, pour a tall glass of ice water, and knock out two to three hours of content work while everyone else is napping or hiding from the heat. Come evening, I’m free to enjoy the cooler air and my family.

Step 5: I Give Myself Grace (and Wiggle Room)

Let’s be real—life happens. A kid needs help, the dog throws up, or I just need a dang break. I always leave open space in my calendar for catch-up or extra ideas that pop up.

If I don’t get everything batched perfectly? That’s fine. The world won’t end if I skip a post here and there. I’d rather be consistent most of the time than burnt out all the time.

Final Thoughts

Summer should be for making memories—not stressing over your next post. Batching lets me keep my content flowing while still living my life, enjoying my family, and maybe even catching a little tan along the way.

If you’ve never tried batching, give it a go. It takes a little planning, but once you get your groove? It’s a total game-changer.

Let me know if you want to see my favorite templates or how I schedule out a full week in under an hour. I’ll spill it all!

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 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.

wax melts warmer

Alright, y’all… I’ll admit it—I’m running a little behind getting this post out. It’s already mid-July, and folks are already whispering about pumpkin spice and flannel. But let’s hit pause for just a minute. Because before we dive into fall, I’ve still got some seriously swoon-worthy summer scents filling up my wax melt warmers.

If you’re in the mood to freshen up your summer scent game before the seasons shift, let me share a few of my absolute July favorites that are perfect for those long, hot days and slow, sweet nights.

Lemon Verbena

This one is a sunshine-soaked classic. Lemon Verbena smells like a freshly cleaned house with the windows open and a breeze blowing through. It’s bright, crisp, and has just enough herbal goodness to keep it from being too sweet. I love using this scent during the day when I need a boost—it’s like a cheerful little nudge saying, “You’ve got this, girl.”

Frozen Margarita

Now this is a party in wax melt form. Frozen Margarita brings the good times straight to your kitchen, minus the blender and the mess. It’s zesty, bold, and has that tangy lime note that makes you feel like you’re beachside with your toes in the sand. Trust me—if you’re having folks over, this one’s a crowd-pleaser.

Watermelon Lemonade

Watermelon Lemonade is my go-to scent when I want to lean fully into summer mode. It’s juicy, sweet, and smells like a picnic under the shade tree. The combo of watermelon and tart lemon is refreshingly playful—think pink drinks, sunshine, and maybe a game of cornhole in the backyard. If you haven’t tried it yet, what are you even doing?

Manicured Lawn

Okay, hear me out—this one’s different and I love it for that. Manicured Lawn is green, earthy, and clean. It reminds me of early mornings when the grass is still wet with dew and someone just finished mowing the yard. There’s something nostalgic and calming about it. I like to melt this one when I’m doing laundry or tidying up—makes me feel like the whole house just got a fresh haircut.

Orange Creamsicle

Talk about a throwback. Orange Creamsicle takes me straight back to summer afternoons chasing the ice cream truck barefoot. It’s got that sweet vanilla cream base with a pop of orange citrus on top. If you love dessert-inspired scents that aren’t too heavy, this one’s a dream. I’ve been known to melt this right after dinner just to keep the cozy mood going.

Thinking Ahead… Just a Bit

Even though these scents are keeping my summer vibe alive, I’ve already started testing a few early fall fragrances for Mama Crow’s—and let me tell you, they are good. I won’t spoil it just yet, but if you’re as obsessed with fall as I am, keep your eyes peeled for the scent swap that’s coming real soon.

For now though, I’m holding on tight to my sunshine and citrus. There’s still a little summer left, and I plan on soaking up every last golden drop.

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 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.

seattle at night

Image by Monika Neumann from Pixabay

Seattle, Washington, is a vibrant coastal city nestled between Puget Sound and the Cascade Mountains. Known for its iconic skyline, rich cultural scene, and natural beauty, Seattle offers a unique blend of urban energy and outdoor adventure. Whether you’re catching views from the Space Needle, exploring local markets, or soaking up misty mountain vibes, this Pacific Northwest gem is sure to impress. So, grab your umbrella and your sense of adventure—Seattle is calling.

Seattle market

Interesting Facts

  • Space Needle: Built for the 1962 World’s Fair, this 605-foot tower is one of the most recognizable landmarks in the United States.
  • Coffee Capital: Seattle is the birthplace of Starbucks and home to more coffee shops per capita than almost any U.S. city.
  • Tech Hub: Major companies like Amazon and Microsoft have headquarters in the Seattle metro area, making it one of the nation’s top tech cities.
  • Puget Sound: This beautiful body of water surrounds the city and offers whale-watching, ferry rides, and unbeatable waterfront views.
sculpture park seattle

Useful Information

  • Best Time to Visit: Summer (June to September) is the sunniest season with comfortable temperatures and packed event calendars.
  • What to Wear: Layers are key in Seattle. Bring a waterproof jacket, sturdy shoes, and clothes you can peel off or add on throughout the day.
  • Getting Around: Seattle has a great public transit system including light rail, buses, and ferries. Walking is easy in many neighborhoods, but hilly in some spots.
Lume field

Image by Art Bromage from Pixabay

What to Do

  • Visit the Space Needle: Ride to the top for 360-degree views of the city, Puget Sound, and nearby Mount Rainier on a clear day.
  • Explore Pike Place Market: One of the oldest public markets in the U.S., it’s famous for flying fish, fresh flowers, local eats, and handmade goods.
  • Discover Chihuly Garden and Glass: Located near the Space Needle, this museum showcases stunning glasswork from artist Dale Chihuly.
  • Take a Ferry Ride: Hop on a Washington State Ferry for a relaxing and scenic trip across Puget Sound to Bainbridge Island or Bremerton.
  • Tour the Museum of Pop Culture: Dive into music, film, sci-fi, and gaming exhibits in this one-of-a-kind museum designed by Frank Gehry.

Related: Let’s Travel to Pittsburgh

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 is the next installment in the Let’s Travel to…series, a collection of short informational articles covering some of the world’s top travel destinations.

A Room Full of Chaos—and Dreams

I know folks like to assume the kitchen is the heart of the home. But in my house? The chaos lives in the craft room. And when I say “worst room,” I don’t mean it’s ugly or unloved—I mean it’s a beautiful, overwhelming mess that somehow rules my entire life.

Welcome to My Craft Cave

This ain’t your average craft nook. Oh no, honey—this is the headquarters of Mama Crow’s. It’s where I make every single wax melt y’all love so much. It’s got zones. Like, legit stations:

A melting station for my wax melter
A pour station to get those blends just right
A packing station to label, wrap, and box it all up
And let’s not forget the shelves stacked with molds, fragrance oils, bags, and every kind of supply you can think of

More Than Wax—It’s a One-Woman Workshop

And as if that wasn’t enough? This room also houses my:

Oh—and this is also where I record TikToks and photograph product shots. So yeah. If you ever wondered where the magic happens, it’s right here… buried under a pile of glitter and half-labeled shipping envelopes.

Why It Stays That Way

I’ve tried organizing it. I’ve bought the bins. I’ve labeled drawers. I even had a vision board moment where I thought I’d turn it into a Pinterest-worthy dream space. But between restocks, custom orders, content creation, and trying to remember if I already bought more pipettes (I did), it just never quite gets there.

The truth is, this room works hard. And because I work hard, this room ends up looking like a tornado of productivity on most days. Clean it all up? Sure. But by tomorrow, it’ll look like I never touched it.

And Honestly? I Kinda Love It

Do I cringe a little when I walk in and trip over a roll of shrink wrap? Yep. Do I dream of a giant, open studio with perfect lighting and fancy storage drawers? Of course. But this room is proof of everything I’ve built.

It’s not just the worst room. It’s the most real room. It holds my mess, my creativity, and every idea I’ve brought to life (even the weird ones I probably shouldn’t have tried to mold in the first place).

So Don’t Judge the Mess

Next time you see one of my wax melts, just know it came from a place that’s equal parts organized chaos and creative heart. And if you’ve got a room that looks more “lived in” than lovely? You’re in good company.

Tell me—what’s your worst room and why? Let’s make peace with the mess and celebrate the magic it hides.

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 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.

tent camping

Image by StockSnap from Pixabay

Let’s Be Honest About Camping
Camping sounds real cute until you’re sweating through your drawers, swatting at a wasp the size of a toddler, and arguing over how to start a fire. It’s supposed to be peaceful, but sometimes it feels like Mother Nature is personally trying to ruin your weekend. Don’t worry—I got your back. Here’s how to enjoy camping without crying in a tent.

Pick a Campsite That Won’t Test Your Faith
Not all campsites are created equal. If you’re new to the outdoor life, skip the deep-woods survival experience. Go somewhere with actual bathrooms, maybe even a picnic table and a little store nearby for “emergencies” (like when your lighter won’t light and you need a s’mores fix). Check reviews, look at photos, and don’t be afraid to ask other campers what they recommend.

Pack Like You’ve Got Some Sense
No, you don’t need twelve pairs of leggings or your air fryer, but you do need the basics. Make a checklist and stick to it:

  • Bug spray (the real deal, not that gentle “herbal” mist)
  • Flashlights and backup batteries
  • First-aid kit (because someone will get a blister, scrape or cut)
  • Wet wipes (God’s gift to campers)
  • Extra snacks (hangry campers are dangerous)
    And for the love of all things good, pack layers. The woods don’t care about your weather app.

Don’t Try to Be a Wilderness Chef
You are not filming a survival cooking show. Keep meals simple—think foil packet dinners, hot dogs on a stick, or even cold sandwiches. Want to impress someone? Toast a marshmallow to golden perfection. That’s all it takes. Anything more and you’re just inviting stress and raccoons.

Set Up Camp Before Sundown
This ain’t a horror movie. Set up your tent while there’s still light in the sky. Nothing tests a relationship like trying to assemble a tent in the dark while your headlamp keeps blinding the other person. Give yourself a buffer. You’ll thank yourself when you’re chillin’ by the fire instead of hollering, “Where’s the dang pole?!”

Accept That Nature is…Well, Nature
You’re gonna get dirty. You might get rained on. Something will go wrong. But if you go in with a sense of humor and low expectations, you’ll have a way better time. Think of every mishap as a story you can laugh about later—or post about once your phone gets service again.

Make Peace With Bugs, Sorta
Listen, you’re in their house. But that doesn’t mean you have to invite them into your sleeping bag. Zip up the tent. Shake out your shoes. Burn sage if you have to. Just don’t spend the whole trip screaming every time something with wings buzzes by. Campers who panic over bugs are the reason other campers drink.

Plan for Fun, But Don’t Overdo It
You don’t need an itinerary packed tighter than a Walmart parking lot on a Friday night. Go for a hike, maybe play cards, and definitely roast some marshmallows. Leave room for naps in a hammock or sittin’ by the fire doing absolutely nothing. That’s where the real magic happens.

Know When to Call It
If the weather turns ugly, your tent leaks, or someone’s allergic to everything, it’s okay to pack up and head home early. Camping is supposed to be fun, not a test of survival. There’s no shame in admitting you’ve had enough. Grab a shower, crank the AC, and try again another time.

Final Thought: You Can Do This (Probably)
Camping doesn’t have to make you question all your life choices. With a little preparation and a whole lotta patience, it can actually be pretty amazing. And if nothing else, you’ll get a story out of it—and maybe a mosquito bite in the shape of Texas.

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 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.

chocolate icebox cake

Image created with Canva AI

Summer in Texas is no joke. When the temps hit triple digits, the last thing anybody wants is to turn on the oven. That’s where these cool, creamy, no-bake desserts come in to save the day—and your sanity. From old-school icebox cakes to dreamy no-bake pies, these easy treats are as refreshing as a dip in the pool.

What Is an Icebox Cake?

Icebox cakes are the kind of dessert your grandma probably whipped up without blinking. Layers of cookies or graham crackers are sandwiched with whipped cream, pudding, or cream cheese mixtures, then chilled until the whole thing sets up like magic. No baking, no sweating—just slice and serve.

Popular combinations include chocolate wafers with whipped cream, vanilla wafers with banana pudding layers, or graham crackers stacked with lemon curd and whipped topping. The fridge (aka the “icebox”) does all the work for you.

strawberry icebox cake

Easy No-Bake Pies That Always Impress

No-bake pies are just as easy as they sound—and they somehow taste even better when you didn’t have to fight the oven for ’em. Most start with a buttery graham cracker or cookie crust and get filled with something cool and creamy.

Favorites around here include:

  • Peanut Butter Pie – A rich combo of peanut butter, cream cheese, and whipped topping
  • Key Lime Pie – Tart, sweet, and smooth with that classic zesty punch
  • Chocolate Pudding Pie – Layered with pudding and topped with whipped cream and chocolate curls
  • Strawberry Pretzel Pie – A little salty, a little sweet, and a whole lotta southern charm

You can even cheat a little and use store-bought crusts if you’re in a real hurry. Nobody’s judging.

cheesecake

Other No-Bake Treats That’ll Save Your Tail

When you need a dessert fast and it’s too dang hot to function, these other no-bake lifesavers come in clutch:

  • No-Bake Cheesecake – Creamy, tangy, and endlessly customizable
  • Refrigerator Fudge – Rich chocolate squares that set up perfectly in the fridge
  • Ambrosia Salad – A retro classic made with fruit, marshmallows, and whipped topping
  • Oreo Truffles – Just crushed Oreos, cream cheese, and a chocolate dip—boom, done

Some of these can be made in under 10 minutes. They’re perfect for last-minute get-togethers, potlucks, or just when you need a sweet fix without a meltdown.

Tips for No-Bake Success

  • Use full-fat ingredients for best texture and taste
  • Chill desserts overnight when possible—flavors blend better and the texture firms up
  • Line your pans with parchment for easy removal
  • Keep ’em covered so they don’t soak up any weird fridge smells

And remember, the freezer is your best friend when the fridge just ain’t cutting it.

When You Just Can’t Bake—Don’t

There’s no shame in skipping the oven when it’s sweltering outside. These no-bake wonders deliver all the comfort of homemade dessert without the heatstroke. Whether you’re whipping up something sweet for the family or showing off at the church potluck, you can’t go wrong with a chilled treat made with love—and zero sweat.

Want to know my go-to? A classic banana pudding icebox cake. Tastes like summer in a pan.

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 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.

Pittsburgh

Image by Christopher Klein from Pixabay

Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, is a city built on grit, innovation, and an unmistakable charm. Once known for its steel industry, this riverfront city has transformed into a vibrant destination full of history, culture, and scenic beauty. With its iconic bridges, world-class museums, and blue-collar heart, Pittsburgh has something for every kind of traveler. So, pack your bags and come discover the bold spirit of the Steel City.

Pittsburgh at night

Image by Christopher Klein from Pixabay

Interesting Facts

  • City of Bridges: Pittsburgh is home to 446 bridges—more than any other city in the world, including Venice, Italy.
  • Three Rivers: The city sits at the confluence of the Allegheny, Monongahela, and Ohio Rivers, offering beautiful waterfront views and recreation.
  • Home of Heinz: Pittsburgh is the birthplace of Heinz Ketchup, and you can explore its history at the Senator John Heinz History Center.
  • Sports Legacy: Pittsburgh is one of the few cities where all major sports teams—Steelers, Pirates, and Penguins—share the same team colors: black and gold.
Pittsburgh bridges

Image by Christopher Klein from Pixabay

Useful Information

  • Best Time to Visit: Late spring (May to June) and early fall (September to October) offer pleasant temperatures and colorful scenery.
  • What to Wear: Comfortable layers work best, especially if you’re walking around the hilly neighborhoods or riding the inclines.
  • Getting Around: The city’s public transit system includes buses and light rail. The Downtown area is very walkable, and Uber or Lyft are easy options for getting around.
PNC Park

What to Do

  • Ride the Duquesne Incline: Get panoramic views of the city skyline and rivers from atop Mount Washington on this historic cable car.
  • Explore the Carnegie Museums: Dive into art, natural history, and science at the city’s renowned Carnegie Museum complexes.
  • Walk Through PNC Park: Even if you’re not a huge baseball fan, this riverside stadium offers some of the best views in Major League Baseball.
  • Visit the Andy Warhol Museum: Discover the life and works of the pop art legend, born right here in Pittsburgh.
  • Relax at Point State Park: Located where the three rivers meet, this downtown green space is perfect for picnics, walks, and photo ops.

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 is the next installment in the Let’s Travel to…series, a collection of short informational articles covering some of the world’s top travel destinations.

kerrville texas

Photo courtesy: Jessica Silcox

It’s been raining non-stop here. The kind of steady, gray rain that keeps everything still. I stayed in bed most of the day—worked a little, prayed a lot, and kept the news on the entire time.

The Hill Country Is on My Mind

The rescue efforts out of the Hill Country have consumed me. As of right now, there have been 50 confirmed deaths—14 of them children. Most of those little ones were from Camp Mystic. That number keeps hitting me like a punch to the chest. It’s not just a tragic story on the news—it’s personal.

I See My Grandgirls in Their Faces

Every time I see a photo of one of those girls, I think of my grandgirls. I can’t help it. I see their faces. I think about how excited those campers probably were just days ago. I think about the parents who trusted they’d be safe. And I think about the families now living out their worst nightmare. My grandson was just at church camp last week! My anxiety has been through the roof. I can’t stop thinking about the what-ifs.

Just a Few Months Ago…

We were in that same part of the Hill Country just a few months back. I’ve talked before about how much I love it out there. It’s one of my favorite places in Texas. At that time, it was bone dry. The rivers were too low to float. No swimming. No boating. Nothing. And now—just like that—it’s completely different. The weather turned deadly in hours. It’s hard to wrap my head around how fast it all changed.

A Day of Grief and Prayer

I didn’t do much today in the traditional sense. I didn’t clean the house or run errands or even leave my bed for long. But I felt everything today. I prayed harder than I have in a long time. I cried for people I don’t know. I sat with the weight of it all and tried to process something that doesn’t make sense.

I Won’t Forget

Even when the news coverage slows down, I won’t forget today. I won’t forget those children or the families left behind. I won’t forget the fear I felt watching it unfold or the helplessness that settled in my chest. The next time I’m in the Hill Country I will make sure I pay my respects like I always do when visiting the Devil’s Backbone.

Related : Ghosts, Views, and Open Roads: A Trip to Devil’s Backbone

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 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.