Signs I’m in My “IDGAF” Era (And It’s Glorious)

Posted on June 18, 2025June 18, 2025 by gigis ramblings

Let’s just say… she’s not the same girl who used to stress over everything. These days? I’m choosing peace, sleep, and not explaining myself. I didn’t plan on entering my IDGAF era—but now that I’m here? I’m staying a while.

Here are the not-so-subtle signs I’ve officially entered this fabulous new chapter.

I No Longer Feel the Need to Explain Myself

I used to over-explain everything. Why I said no. Why I left early. Why I changed my mind.
Not anymore.

If I don’t want to go somewhere, I don’t. And if I change course, I don’t send out a press release about it. It’s called growth.

I Don’t Answer Calls I Don’t Feel Like Answering

I see the phone ring. I stare at it. And I still don’t answer.

Sometimes, I just don’t have the energy for small talk—or nonsense. I’ll call back when (and if) I feel like it.

I Dress for Me, Not for the Internet

Used to be I wouldn’t leave the house unless I looked “put together.”
Now? I will absolutely show up in pajamas and a bun. Grocery store, school pick-up, wherever. I’m not trying to impress strangers anymore. It’s liberating.

I’ve Mastered the Art of Saying No

No is a full sentence. Repeat that.

I don’t feel guilty for turning down things that drain me. If it’s not a “heck yes,” it’s a “no thanks.” Protecting my peace is the new priority.

I Don’t Engage in Drama (Even When It’s Spicy)

Look, I used to live for the tea. But now? I’ll scroll past a mess like I didn’t even see it.

I’m not arguing, not defending, not diving into gossip circles. Let folks be wrong in peace.

I Let People Be Mad

Here’s a plot twist: someone being mad at me doesn’t make me wrong.
And these days? I’m not bending over backwards to fix every feeling. You mad? Take a number.

I Prioritize Rest Without Feeling Lazy

I’m not burning myself out just to prove I’m productive.

If I need a nap, I take one. If I need a quiet weekend, I don’t apologize for it. Rest is necessary—not negotiable.

I Don’t Chase People Anymore

Friendships, relationships, work connections—if it’s not mutual, I’m not forcing it.

The people meant for me show up. The rest? I don’t lose sleep over them anymore.

I Trust My Gut and Don’t Second-Guess

Before, I’d doubt my own instincts. Now? I trust that little voice inside.

I don’t need a dozen opinions before making a decision. I know what’s right for me—and that’s enough.

I Celebrate the Small Wins Like They’re Huge

Did I clean the kitchen and remember to drink water? That’s a win.
In this IDGAF era, I clap for myself every chance I get. No one else has to understand it.

I’m Comfortable Being “Too Much” or “Not Enough”

People will label you either way. So I decided to just be myself.

Too loud? Too quiet? Too real? Not their problem—and not mine either.

Final Thoughts

My IDGAF era isn’t about being cold or careless—it’s about finally putting myself first.
I still care… just not about everything. And that, my friend, feels glorious.

Welcome to your soft, strong, peaceful, powerful IDGAF era. It’s about time.

Let’s Travel to Grand Teton National Park

Posted on June 16, 2025June 17, 2025 by gigis ramblings

Image by G Poulsen from Pixabay

Grand Teton, Wyoming, is a breathtaking destination that draws travelers with its rugged peaks, pristine lakes, and unmatched wildlife. Located just south of Yellowstone, this national park offers a quieter yet equally majestic escape into the wild. Whether you’re hiking, kayaking, snapping photos, or simply soaking in the mountain air, Grand Teton is the kind of place that leaves a lasting impression. So, pack your gear and get ready to experience the soul-stirring beauty of the American West.

Image by Mike Goad from Pixabay

Interesting Facts

Towering Peaks: The Teton Range includes Grand Teton, which stands at 13,775 feet and is one of the most photographed mountains in the country.
Jackson Hole Valley: Grand Teton National Park borders this picturesque valley, which is known for its charming town, ski resorts, and rich cowboy culture.
Abundant Wildlife: The park is home to moose, bears, elk, bald eagles, and bison—many of which can be spotted without ever leaving your car.
Historic Homesteads: Mormon Row is a famous site within the park, featuring preserved 19th-century buildings with the Tetons rising dramatically in the background.

Image by Jim Jorstad from Pixabay

Useful Information

Best Time to Visit: Late spring through early fall (June to September) offers the best weather for hiking, boating, and wildlife viewing.
What to Wear: Dress in layers and pack sturdy hiking shoes. Even in summer, mornings and evenings can be chilly. Don’t forget sunscreen and bear spray.
Getting Around: Renting a car is essential for exploring the park and nearby Jackson Hole. Scenic drives like Teton Park Road offer incredible views.

Image by gfay33 from Pixabay

What to Do

Hike Jenny Lake Trail: One of the park’s most popular trails, this scenic loop offers views of waterfalls, crystal-clear water, and towering peaks.
Take a Boat Ride on Jackson Lake: Enjoy a relaxing boat tour or rent a kayak to explore this peaceful alpine lake surrounded by snow-capped mountains.
Visit Mormon Row: Snap photos of the historic barns and structures set against the stunning backdrop of the Teton Range.
Scenic Drive on Teton Park Road: This route provides unforgettable vistas, wildlife sightings, and access to many popular trailheads.
Explore the Craig Thomas Discovery and Visitor Center: Learn about the park’s geology, ecology, and human history through engaging exhibits and ranger programs.

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 Father’s Love: Steady Hands, Strong Hearts, and Lifelong Lessons

Posted on June 15, 2025June 16, 2025 by gigis ramblings

Image by PublicDomainPictures from Pixabay

Fatherhood isn’t just about biology—it’s about being there. It’s the steady presence, the quiet strength, the lessons passed down through simple moments: tying a shoelace, learning to cast a fishing line, or that first wobble down the sidewalk without training wheels.

Today, we celebrate fathers of all kinds. The ones who show up day in and day out. The stepdads who step in without skipping a beat. The grandfathers who fill in the gaps. The uncles, coaches, big brothers, and mentors who help raise the next generation with patience and love.

Some folks grow up never knowing the kind of father who sticks around—and I carry that truth close, especially knowing half of my own children didn’t get that kind of father figure in their lives. It’s a reminder that having a present, loving father is not something to take for granted.

That’s why I’m forever grateful for the man I got to call Daddy. He taught me how to ride a bike, how to fish, and how to stand on my own. His presence shaped who I became, and I know how rare that gift is.

And now, as I look at my four boys—grown men who’ve stepped into fatherhood with strength and pride—I see that same love being passed on. Each of them makes me proud, not just as their mama, but as a woman who believes deeply in the power of a good father.

Happy Father’s Day to every man out there doing his best. And with all my heart, Happy Father’s Day to my Daddy and to my four boys—thank you for being the kind of men worth celebrating.

The Craziest Things to Ever Happen on a Friday the 13th

Posted on June 13, 2025June 14, 2025 by gigis ramblings

Image created with Canva Dream Lab

Some folks run from it, others laugh in the face of it—but around here, Friday the 13th just might be in our blood.

My mama is a triplet, and they were born on Friday the 13th in the already spooky month of October. Their 13th birthday also fell on Friday the 13th! Years later, one of my cousins showed up on the same date-same kind of eerie timing. And wouldn’t you know it, two of my grandsons, Isaiah and Eli, were also born on Friday the 13th. At this point, we might as well start a club.

So while some folks hide under the covers or side-eye black cats, I say bring it on. That spooky little square on the calendar has delivered more than its fair share of surprises—some beautiful, some bone-chilling. And across history, Friday the 13th has been blamed (and rightly so) for all sorts of strange, tragic, and downright unbelievable events.

If you’re curious (or brave), here are some of the wildest, weirdest, and most haunting things to ever happen on a Friday the 13th.

The Andes Plane Crash (1972)

One of the most harrowing survival stories in history began on Friday, October 13, 1972. A Uruguayan Air Force plane carrying 45 people, including a rugby team, crashed into the Andes Mountains. Stranded in freezing conditions for over two months, the survivors faced impossible decisions, including resorting to cannibalism to stay alive.

Their story became the basis for the book Alive and several films. The crash and what followed turned a freak accident into a legend—forever tying Friday the 13th to one of the most haunting real-life survival tales ever told.

The Stock Market Mini-Crash (1989)

Wall Street has its share of bad days, but Friday the 13th in October 1989 delivered a doozy. Known as the “Friday the 13th Mini-Crash,” the Dow Jones Industrial Average plunged 6.91% in a single day due to a mix of market rumors and panic selling.

It wasn’t the worst crash in history, but it sent shockwaves through the financial world and fueled the notion that Friday the 13th is bad luck for business, too.

The Buckingham Palace Bombing (1940)

On September 13, 1940—yes, a Friday—the Nazis bombed Buckingham Palace during World War II. King George VI and Queen Elizabeth were in residence when the palace was hit. Miraculously, they were unharmed.

The event was a powerful symbol of British resilience, but to this day, it’s one of the more eerie examples of how Friday the 13th doesn’t care about titles, thrones, or royal blood.

Rapper Tupac Shakur Dies (1996)

Tupac Shakur, one of the most influential rappers of all time, died on Friday, September 13, 1996, six days after being shot in a drive-by in Las Vegas. His death remains one of hip-hop’s greatest tragedies—and mysteries—fueling countless conspiracy theories and dark speculation.

Whether you believe he’s truly gone or sipping cocktails on an island somewhere, his death on Friday the 13th only adds to the legend.

The Costa Concordia Disaster (2012)

On Friday, January 13, 2012, the cruise ship Costa Concordia struck a rock off the coast of Italy and capsized. Over 30 people lost their lives in what became one of the worst cruise ship disasters in modern history.

The captain was later convicted of manslaughter and abandoning ship, which only added to the drama. For those aboard, this wasn’t just a bad day—it was a full-blown maritime nightmare.

The “Friday the 13th Virus” (1989)

No, not the slasher flick—this was a real computer virus. On Friday, October 13, 1989, a virus dubbed “Friday the 13th” or “Jerusalem” wreaked havoc on computers across Europe and the U.S.

It was programmed to delete files on that specific day. Thousands of machines were affected, and it was one of the earliest examples of how even technology isn’t safe from superstition.

Kansas Flooding Disaster (1951)

On Friday, July 13, 1951, the state of Kansas was hit by one of the most devastating floods in U.S. history. Rivers overflowed, towns were submerged, and over 500,000 people were affected.

It caused hundreds of millions of dollars in damage and is still remembered as one of the worst natural disasters in the region—cementing Friday the 13th’s reputation as a harbinger of chaos.

A Teen Is Struck By Lightning—At 13:13 On Friday the 13th (2010)

You can’t make this up. In 2010, a 13-year-old boy in Suffolk, England, was struck by lightning at exactly 13:13 (that’s 1:13 PM) on Friday the 13th. Miraculously, he survived with only minor burns.

If that ain’t the most cursed-sounding set of numbers in a news story, I don’t know what is.

Flight 571 Engine Explosion (2012)

A Scandinavian Airlines flight from Copenhagen to Helsinki experienced an engine explosion mid-air on Friday, April 13, 2012. The pilot made an emergency landing, and no one was seriously hurt, but it left passengers shaken and headlines blazing.

Folks who boarded that plane on Friday the 13th probably checked their horoscopes real quick after landing.

The Death of Alfred Hitchcock (1980)

Master of suspense Alfred Hitchcock died on Friday the 13th in April 1980. Known for films like Psycho, The Birds, and Vertigo, Hitchcock was the king of cinematic creepiness.

It’s oddly fitting that the man who made millions squirm in their theater seats exited this world on one of the most ominous days on the calendar.

Friday the 13th, the Franchise That Fueled Fear

While not a real event, the Friday the 13th horror franchise has left an undeniable mark on pop culture. The first film dropped in 1980 and introduced the world to Jason Voorhees and his signature hockey mask.

The franchise only added fuel to the fear, turning what might’ve been a quirky superstition into a full-on horror holiday.

In Conclusion

Friday the 13th may just be a date on the calendar, but for some, it’s a whole mood—and not the good kind. Whether it’s cursed coincidences, strange weather, or history-making disasters, this day keeps showing up in all the wrong headlines.

Believe it or not, it makes for a wild ride every time it rolls around.

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.

Let’s Travel to Minneapolis, Minnesota

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

Image by StockSnap from Pixabay

Minneapolis, Minnesota, is a dynamic city that perfectly blends urban sophistication with natural beauty. Known for its shimmering lakes, buzzing arts scene, and Midwest charm, Minneapolis is a cultural and recreational hotspot. Whether you’re into live music, art museums, iconic eats, or a good paddle on the water, this city has a little something for every type of traveler. So, pack your bags and get ready to explore one of the coolest cities up north.

Interesting Facts

City of Lakes: Minneapolis is home to 13 lakes within city limits and over 180 parks, making it one of the most outdoorsy urban areas in the U.S.
Mall of America Nearby: Just a short drive away in Bloomington, the Mall of America is the largest shopping mall in the United States, with 500+ stores and an indoor amusement park.
Music Legacy: Prince, one of the most influential musicians of all time, was born and raised in Minneapolis. You can visit his former home and studio, Paisley Park.
Skyway System: The city has a unique 9.5-mile enclosed skyway system that lets folks walk between buildings downtown without ever going outside—handy during those cold winters!

Image by jtkim04 from Pixabay

Useful Information

Best Time to Visit: Summer (June to August) offers warm weather, outdoor festivals, and lake life at its best. Fall (September to October) brings gorgeous autumn colors.
What to Wear: In summer, bring comfortable, breathable clothes for warm days and a light jacket for cooler nights. If visiting in fall, pack layers and comfy walking shoes.
Getting Around: The city has a solid light rail system and a bike-friendly layout, but renting a car is helpful if you want to explore beyond the metro area.

Image by Brian Pelchat from Pixabay

What to Do

Visit the Minneapolis Sculpture Garden: Home of the iconic “Spoonbridge and Cherry” sculpture, this spot is a must-see for art lovers and photo enthusiasts alike.
Walk or Bike the Chain of Lakes: Rent a bike or paddleboard and enjoy the beautiful trails and water activities around Lake Calhoun, Lake Harriet, and more.
Explore the Walker Art Center: This contemporary art museum features innovative exhibits and often hosts special events and performances.
Tour Paisley Park: Music lovers can tour Prince’s home and studio to learn more about his life, music, and legendary performances.
Shop the Mall of America: Even if you’re not big on shopping, the massive indoor amusement park, aquarium, and dining options make it worth a visit.

How I Reset My Home (and My Mind) Mid-Year

Posted on June 10, 2025June 11, 2025 by gigis ramblings

Image by StockSnap from Pixabay

Every June, I start feelin’ that itch—the one that tells me it’s time for a fresh start. The holidays are far behind, summer’s in full swing, and I realize both my home and my head could use a little reset. Not a full-blown makeover or life overhaul, but just enough to feel good again. So here’s exactly how I hit the mid-year refresh button.

I Declutter Like I’m Moving Tomorrow

The first thing I do is go room by room with a couple of big ol’ donation bags. If I wouldn’t pack it to move, I don’t keep it. That goes for clothes, knickknacks, half-burnt candles, and anything I’ve shoved in a drawer “just in case.” I even check under beds and inside closets because that’s where clutter hides and multiplies.

I don’t aim for perfection—just peace.

I Give My Spaces a Good Deep Clean

Once the clutter’s gone, I break out the mop, vacuum, and elbow grease. I wash baseboards, wipe down ceiling fans, and scrub those little corners that never see the light of day. I even wash curtains and throw pillow covers—basically anything that’s collected dust since January.

There’s something about the smell of a clean room and fresh linens that flips a switch in my brain. Clean surroundings make me feel lighter, like I can breathe again.

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I Rework One Room for a New Vibe

I don’t mean repainting the whole house, but I do like to change up the feel of one space. Maybe I swap throw blankets, move the furniture a bit, or bring in some summer-friendly colors. This year, I bought a whole new couch. A little drastic but I definitely switched things up.

Little changes, big impact.

I Get Back to My Calendar (and My Sanity)

By June, my schedule’s usually a hot mess. I pull out my planner, look at what’s working (and what’s not), and figure out what I actually want the rest of the year to look like. I set small goals—not big, scary ones—just enough to keep me focused.

This reset isn’t just about the house. It’s about giving myself permission to let go of what’s not serving me anymore—physically, mentally, and emotionally.

I Stock the Pantry With Simple Summer Staples

I clean out the pantry and fridge, tossing expired stuff and anything we’re just not eating. Then I restock with fresh fruits, snacks, and easy meals that don’t heat up the whole house. Think: watermelon, pasta salad, sandwich fixins, and grill-ready stuff.

Keeping things simple in the kitchen helps me feel less overwhelmed on busy days.

I Add Something That Makes Me Smile

This one’s important. Whether it’s a new candle (you know I love a good wax melt), a hanging plant, or just some sort of summer decor from the Dollar Store—I make sure to bring a little happiness into the space. Because resetting your home should feel like a reward, not a chore.

Sometimes I even buy a new notepad or pen set—don’t judge me. Little joys matter.

I Make Time to Be Still

Once the house is fresh and the plans are reset, I take time to just be. I sit by the pool, put my phone down, and soak in some peace. I let my mind wander without a to-do list. That stillness is where the real magic of a mid-year reset kicks in.

By doing these simple things, I walk into the second half of the year feeling calm, clear-headed, and back in control. I don’t need a whole new life—I just need a little breathing room and a reminder that I’ve got this.

And that, my friend, is how I reset my home—and my mind—mid-year.

Father’s Day Is Coming—Here’s a Realistic Gift Guide (No Ties)

Posted on June 10, 2025June 10, 2025 by gigis ramblings

Image by StockSnap from Pixabay

Father’s Day is sneaking up on us like socks in sandals at a backyard barbecue. And if you’re tired of grabbing a last-minute tie or “World’s Best Dad” mug that ends up collecting dust, this list is for you. Whether he’s into grilling, gadgets, or just sitting in peace for once, we’ve rounded up a bunch of realistic, useful, and actually good gift ideas that your dad—or husband, stepdad, grandpa, or favorite father figure—will genuinely love.

1. Something for the Grill Master

Let’s be real—most dads, especially if they are from the South, live for firing up the grill. If your guy’s idea of relaxation includes babying a brisket or flipping steaks, treat him to:

A wireless meat thermometer (he can monitor temps from his phone)
A heavy-duty set of grilling tools (extra-long handles for the win)
A new smoker box or some fancy wood chips for flavor upgrades
A meat subscription box with handpicked cuts every month

Bonus points if you volunteer to be his taste tester.

2. Tech Toys (That He’ll Actually Use)

Not every dad wants a drone or a smartwatch. But here are some dad-friendly tech gifts that won’t end up in a drawer:

Bluetooth speaker for porch sitting or garage piddlin’
Digital picture frame loaded with family photos
Noise-canceling earbuds (for when y’all get too loud)
Charging station or multi-port dock for all his gadgets

Keep it simple, keep it practical—and make sure it comes with instructions.

3. Chill Time Essentials

Sometimes the best gift is permission to relax—undisturbed.

A hammock for the backyard nap of his dreams
An old-school recliner upgrade (if he’s had the same one since ’98)
A cooler full of his favorite drinks (bonus if you include snacks)
A comfy robe or house shoes that don’t fall apart after a week

Let him know it’s okay to sit down for once.

4. Something Sentimental (But Not Sappy)

Some dads really do love the sweet stuff—as long as it doesn’t get too mushy.

A custom keychain or wallet insert with a short message
A personalized grill branding iron (yep, that’s a thing)
A photo book of his greatest dad moments (don’t forget the silly ones)
A handwritten letter—short, sweet, and from the heart

Sometimes a good laugh and a memory go further than anything on Amazon.

5. Subscription Gifts That Keep On Givin’

If you want a gift that keeps showing up after Father’s Day, try a subscription:

Monthly jerky box (variety is the spice of life, after all)
Beer or bourbon-of-the-month club (age 21+, y’all)
A digital magazine subscription tailored to his hobbies
Coffee alternatives like tea blends or hot cocoa kits

Make it something he’ll look forward to instead of forget about.

6. The Gift of Time Together

At the end of the day, what most dads want is a little quality time with the people they love—without having to plan it.

Take him to a ballgame
Cook his favorite meal (and don’t let him do the dishes)
Plan a day trip to his favorite fishing hole, car show, or hardware store heaven
Set up a backyard movie night just for him

No wrapping paper required—just your time and attention.

Let’s Keep It Real

Father’s Day doesn’t have to be fancy. It just needs to feel thoughtful. Skip the clichés and get him something he’ll use, enjoy, or at the very least not pretend to like. Whether it’s a gadget, a grilled steak, or just an hour of peace and quiet—if it makes his day, you’ve done it right.

Let’s Travel to Billings, Montana

Posted on June 9, 2025June 9, 2025 by gigis ramblings

Image courtesy of Bureau of Land Management, FLICKR

Billings, Montana, is a rugged yet welcoming city nestled between the Yellowstone River and the sandstone Rimrocks. Known as the “Magic City” for its rapid growth in the late 1800s, Billings is a hub of outdoor adventure, Western history, and big sky beauty. Whether you’re in search of scenic drives, dinosaur fossils, or an authentic Montana experience, this city offers a little something for every kind of traveler. So, pack your bags and head west for a one-of-a-kind trip to Big Sky Country.

Image courtesy of Bureau of Land Management, FLICKR

Interesting Facts

The Rimrocks: Billings is bordered by stunning sandstone cliffs known as the Rimrocks, which offer breathtaking views of the city and Yellowstone Valley.
Yellowstone River: It’s the largest city in Montana and the only one built directly on the Yellowstone River, providing endless opportunities for fishing, kayaking, and scenic walks.
Pictograph Cave State Park: Just a few miles outside the city, this park features ancient rock paintings dating back over 2,000 years.
Dinosaur Trail: Billings is part of Montana’s Dinosaur Trail, a popular route featuring museums and dig sites that highlight the region’s prehistoric past.

Image courtesy of David Wilson, Flicker

Useful Information

Best Time to Visit: Late spring through early fall (May to September) offers warm weather and ideal conditions for outdoor activities.
What to Wear: Layers are key in Montana. Bring breathable clothing for warm days and jackets or sweaters for cool evenings, especially if you’re heading to higher elevations.
Getting Around: Renting a car is highly recommended for exploring the area. Billings is spread out and surrounded by beautiful scenic routes worth driving.

What to Do

Visit Pictograph Cave State Park: Explore trails and view prehistoric cave art that gives insight into the lives of Montana’s earliest residents.
Walk the Rimrocks: Hike or drive up to the Rimrocks for incredible panoramic views and photo ops of the city below.
Explore the Western Heritage Center: Dive into the rich culture and history of the Yellowstone River Valley through exhibits and rotating displays.
Stroll Through ZooMontana: A charming zoo and botanical park that’s home to native and exotic species—perfect for families and nature lovers.
Take a Scenic Drive to Red Lodge: Less than an hour away, this mountain town is the gateway to the Beartooth Highway, one of the most scenic drives in America.

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.

What Summer Looked Like in the ‘80s vs Now

Posted on June 4, 2025June 8, 2025 by gigis ramblings

Image by Zhivko Dimitrov from Pixabay

Back When Bikes Meant Freedom and Phones Stayed Home

In the ‘80s, summer meant one thing: freedom. Once that school bell rang on the last day, kids hopped on their bikes and vanished until dinner. No helmets, no tracking apps, and definitely no smartphones. You left the house in the morning and came home sweaty, scraped up, and sunburned. That was just part of the fun.

Now? Kids still ride bikes, sure—but with location tracking, bike helmets, and a group text coordinating every move. There’s less spontaneity and more planning. Summer isn’t just experienced anymore—it’s documented, filtered, and posted within seconds.

Blockbuster Nights vs Streaming Binge-Fests

A summer Friday night in the ‘80s meant piling into the car and heading to Blockbuster. You roamed the aisles forever, judged movies by their covers, and prayed your pick wasn’t already rented. The reward? Movie night on the couch with microwave popcorn and a cold can of Coke.

Today’s summer movie nights happen with a remote and endless options on streaming platforms. No late fees. No rewinding. But somehow, it lacks that thrill of picking the one good VHS before someone else snagged it.

Sprinklers, Slip ‘N Slides, and Hose Wars

Back then, we didn’t have fancy splash pads or backyard pools with fountains and lights. We had the garden hose, the trusty sprinkler, and maybe a warped Slip ‘N Slide from Kmart. It was cheap, cold, and chaotic—just how summer fun should be.

Now? Water play looks a little more curated. Think splash parks, inflatable water slides, and supervised pool playdates. It’s still fun—but it ain’t quite the same kind of wild.

Snacks Were Messy, Sugary, and Unapologetic

In the ‘80s, snacks were pure sugar bombs. We’re talkin’ Pudding Pops, Hostess Ding Dongs, Big League Chew and Kool-Aid so sweet it’d punch you in the teeth. Lunch might be a bologna sandwich squished in a Ziploc with a bag of Doritos and no adult supervision in sight.

These days, summer snacks are all about organic juice pouches, allergen-free granola bars, and fruit skewers shaped like stars. Not knocking it—but there’s something iconic about a sticky, red Kool-Aid mustache.

Road Trips Without GPS and a Whole Lot of Trust

Summer vacations used to be planned with an actual map and a glove box full of printed directions. Getting lost was just part of the journey. We played the license plate game, counted cows, and listened to whatever cassette Dad popped in.

Now we’ve got GPS, in-car Wi-Fi, playlists for every mood, and enough screens to keep everyone quiet. Sure, it’s easier. But maybe a little too easy. There’s not as much room for those weird, unforgettable detours.

Fashion: Neon, Jellies, and Tan Lines Galore

The ‘80s summer wardrobe? Bright neon shorts, jelly sandals that gave you blisters, and crop tops before they were trendy. You got your tan from actually being outside, and sunblock was optional.

Now summer fashion is curated on Pinterest boards and Instagram reels. Think coordinated outfits, wide-brim hats, reef-safe SPF, and a strong focus on “aesthetic.” Cute? Yes. But we kinda miss the chaos of mismatched neon and sand-covered jelly shoes.

Interesting Facts You Might Not Know

Slip ‘N Slide was so popular that more than 9 million were sold by the end of the decade.
Kool-Aid had over 70 different flavors by the mid-‘80s, including “Purplesaurus Rex” and “Great Bluedini.”
Blockbuster once had over 9,000 stores worldwide. Now, there’s just one left—in Bend, Oregon.
In 1984, McDonald’s released a summer promo giving away Olympic medals in scratch-off cards—until the U.S. dominated the games and cost them millions in free food.

Best Time to Recreate an ‘80s Summer

If you’re feeling nostalgic, late June through early August is perfect. Hit up local flea markets for retro toys, plan an outdoor movie night with a projector, or just let the kids run wild with the garden hose and a Kool-Aid mustache.

Life Hacks from a Southern Mama

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

Image created with Canva AI

When you’ve been raisin’ babies, cleanin’ messes, stretchin’ paychecks, and runnin’ a house full of chaos for more years than you can count, you learn a few things. Some call it wisdom. We call it Southern Mama Survival Mode—and honey, it’s a powerful thing.

Here’s a list of home and life hacks straight from my Southern heart to yours. They’re practical, a little ridiculous, and downright brilliant if I do say so myself.

Keep a Gallon Ziploc Bag in the Freezer for “Soup Starters”

Don’t throw out those leftover veggies, chicken scraps, or even that last spoonful of rice. Toss ’em in a Ziploc bag labeled “Soup Starter” and keep it in the freezer. Once it’s full, dump it in a pot with broth and some seasonin’. Boom. Free dinner.

Use a Pillowcase to Clean Ceiling Fan Blades (Without Gaggin’)

Slide a pillowcase over the blade, squeeze it shut, and pull. It traps the dust inside so it don’t go flyin’ all over your room and your fresh-washed sheets. Learned this one after sneezin’ through spring cleanin’ like a fool.

Mason Jars Ain’t Just Cute—They’re the Ultimate Organizer

Store dry goods, cotton balls, Q-tips, nuts, bolts, leftover paint, bobby pins, or spare change. If it fits, it sits. Bonus points if you write on the lid with a Sharpie like your Granny used to.

Line Trash Cans with Newspaper Before Adding the Bag

This one’s pure gold: lay some newspaper at the bottom of your trash can before you put the bag in. It’ll soak up leaks, fight odors, and keep stuff from stickin’. Just like Mama’s gossip—absorbs the mess before it gets outta hand.

Ice Cubes Fix Carpet Dents Like Magic

You know those lil’ craters your furniture leaves behind in the carpet? Drop an ice cube on it, let it melt, then fluff with a spoon or fork. Works like a charm—no lie. Just don’t forget the towel underneath unless you want a surprise puddle.

Put a Lazy Susan Under the Sink

Tired of crawlin’ around under the sink just to reach the dish soap? Toss a Lazy Susan under there and spin your way to sanity. Works great in the fridge too for sauces, dressings, and that jar of pickles nobody eats but still insists on keepin’.

Lemons + Vinegar = Southern Mama’s Miracle Cleaner

Soak lemon peels in white vinegar for two weeks in a jar. Strain it, and you’ve got the best all-purpose cleaner this side of the Mississippi. Smells good, cleans better, and makes you feel like you’ve got your life together—even if the dog just threw up on the rug.

Keep Dryer Sheets in Your Drawers and Suitcases

Not just for laundry! Tuck a dryer sheet in drawers, shoes, or your suitcase when packin’. I also throw one in each pillowcase when I wash them each Sunday. It’ll keep everything smellin’ fresh and remind you of clean laundry—even if the laundry pile’s taller than your grandkids.

Use a Hanging Shoe Organizer for Snacks or Cleaning Supplies

Hang it on the pantry door or in the laundry room. Each pocket holds granola bars, spice packets, wipes, dusters—whatever you’re tired of diggin’ for. If it can fit in a flip-flop, it can fit in here.

Set a “Power Hour” Timer and Tackle What You Can

Turn on your favorite playlist, set a 60-minute timer, and go full ham. Clean, organize, pay bills—whatever needs attention. You’ll be amazed how much you get done without scrollin’ your whole day away.

White Bread Removes Scuff Marks (And That’s Not a Joke)

Got marks on your wall or shoes? Take a piece of plain ol’ white bread, ball it up, and rub it gently over the spot. It lifts scuffs like magic. Bonus: You can eat the crust while you clean.

Store Sheets Inside Their Matching Pillowcase

Fold up your fitted and flat sheets, tuck ’em inside one of the pillowcases, and store the whole bundle together. That way, when it’s time to change the bed, you ain’t diggin’ through a linen closet like you’re on a treasure hunt.

Rubber Bands on a Paint Can = Mess-Free Brushing

Stretch a rubber band across the opening of a paint can and use it to wipe your brush on instead of the rim. Keeps the can clean, your hands tidy, and your tongue from sayin’ things you’ll have to apologize for in church.

Turn a Cake Stand Into a Fancy Sink Organizer

Put a cake stand beside your sink and load it with soap, sponges, and lotion. Looks cute, keeps things off the counter, and makes you feel just a little fancy—like “bless-your-heart-but-don’t-touch-my-soap” fancy.

A Southern mama knows that sometimes the best fix isn’t fancy—it’s resourceful, simple, and straight from the heart. These hacks ain’t from Pinterest, baby. They’re from real-life livin’, learnin’, and a little trial and error (and maybe one exploded casserole).

Try a few, pass ’em on, and don’t forget: if duct tape and sweet tea can’t fix it, you probably just need a nap.