Let’s Travel to Augusta, Georgia

Posted on April 13, 2025March 25, 2025 by gigis ramblings

Photo Courtesy of mr freedom, FLICKR

Augusta is a charming Southern city known for its historic sites, scenic riverfront, and world-famous golf tournament. Whether you’re exploring its rich history, enjoying outdoor activities, or indulging in classic Southern cuisine, Augusta offers something for every traveler. Pack your bags and get ready to experience this gem along the Savannah River!

Interesting Facts:

Home of The Masters: Augusta National Golf Club hosts The Masters, one of the most prestigious golf tournaments in the world.
Birthplace of James Brown: The “Godfather of Soul,” James Brown, was born and raised in Augusta, and the city celebrates his legacy with a downtown statue and museum exhibit.
Augusta’s Riverwalk: This scenic area along the Savannah River features parks, amphitheaters, and walking paths, making it a favorite local hangout.
A City of History: Augusta was founded in 1736, making it one of Georgia’s oldest cities, with beautifully preserved antebellum homes and historic landmarks.

Photo Courtesy of Sir Mildred Pierce, FLICKR

Useful Information:

Best Time to Visit: Spring (March to May) is the best time to visit, especially during The Masters. Fall (September to November) also offers pleasant weather.
What to Wear: Light, breathable clothing is ideal for Augusta’s warm climate, along with comfortable walking shoes for exploring historic sites.
Getting Around: A car is the best way to explore Augusta, but the downtown area is very walkable, and trolleys provide guided tours of historic sites.

Photo Courtesy of Dan Perry, FLICKR

What to Do:

Visit Augusta National Golf Club (During The Masters): Golf fans can experience one of the sport’s most iconic venues during the annual tournament.
Explore the Augusta Museum of History: Learn about Augusta’s rich past, including exhibits on James Brown, golf history, and the Civil War.
Stroll Along the Augusta Riverwalk: Enjoy scenic views, walking paths, and local events along the beautiful Savannah River.
Tour the Boyhood Home of Woodrow Wilson: Step back in time at the childhood home of the 28th U.S. president, filled with historic artifacts.
Visit Phinizy Swamp Nature Park: Nature lovers can explore wetlands, wildlife, and peaceful trails just minutes from downtown Augusta.
Check Out the Morris Museum of Art: This museum is dedicated to Southern art, featuring works from the colonial era to contemporary pieces.

Related: Let’s Travel to Mystic, CT

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.

Embracing the Energy of the Pink Full Moon

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

Image by Bruno from Pixabay

The Pink Full Moon rises in April and signals the heart of spring. Despite its name, it doesn’t appear pink. Its name comes from the blooming of wild pink phlox, one of the first spring flowers.

The moon represents growth, renewal, and the beauty of transformation. It invites us to reflect, release, and begin again.

Symbolism and Spiritual Meaning

This full moon is tied to fresh starts and gentle awakenings. Like flowers pushing through the soil, it calls us to rise. The energy is soft but powerful—perfect for letting go of what no longer fits in our lives.

Spiritually, it’s a time to reconnect with purpose and open yourself to change.

Emotional Release and Intuition

Full moons are always emotional. The Pink Moon shines a light on your inner world. It heightens feelings, intuition, and even dreams.

If you’re feeling overwhelmed or sensitive, know that it’s part of the process. The moon helps us see clearly. It brings what’s hidden to the surface so we can heal it.

Simple Ways to Embrace the Energy

You don’t need a complicated ritual to connect with the moon. Start with stillness.

Go outside and let the moonlight touch your skin.
Take deep breaths and picture your stress melting away.
Journal your thoughts, feelings, and intentions.

Write down what you’re ready to release. Then, write what you want to welcome into your life.

Cleanse, Charge, and Create Space

This is a powerful time to clear your space, both physically and emotionally. You can:

Clean your home.
Burn sage or incense.
Charge crystals or special objects in the moonlight.
Let fresh air in through open windows.

The goal is to make room for peace and alignment.

Lean Into Self-Care and Connection

Honor your emotions with extra self-care. A warm bath, soft music, or a calming tea can work wonders. Be gentle with yourself.

This moon also supports healing relationships. Check in with someone you love. Express gratitude. Offer forgiveness. Share from the heart.

Step Into the Season of Growth

Spring is nature’s reminder that growth takes time. You’re not behind. You’re not stuck. You’re simply shifting.

Spend time outdoors if you can. Notice the blooming trees, the longer days, and the feeling of possibility in the air. Let it remind you—you’re blooming too.

Trust the Process of Becoming

The Pink Full Moon is soft yet wise. It doesn’t push; it invites. This is your moment to trust your journey.

Let go of what weighs you down. Breathe in what lifts you up. You’re ready for this next chapter, even if you can’t see the whole path yet.

Do Full Moons Really Influence Crime Rates?

Posted on April 11, 2025April 13, 2025 by gigis ramblings

Image by David from Pixabay

For centuries, people have connected full moons to strange behavior. Stories of werewolves, madness, and mysterious crimes have deep roots in folklore. But is there any truth to it? Can a full moon actually impact crime rates?

Let’s dive into what we know—and what we still wonder about.

A Long History of Suspicion

The belief that full moons affect human behavior isn’t new. In ancient times, people thought the moon’s glow stirred chaos. The term lunacy even comes from “luna,” the Latin word for moon. Police departments, emergency rooms, and even teachers have long claimed full moons bring more trouble than usual.

Many say they’ve seen more fights, arrests, or strange events during full moons. Some hospitals report more ER visits. Some officers swear they get more calls. But what does the data say?

What the Research Shows

The idea is fascinating, but the science is mixed. Some studies suggest a slight increase in crime during full moons. Others show no connection at all. One study from 1984 found more violent crime during full moons in Florida. But a different study, using data from across the U.S., showed no consistent pattern.

In short: science hasn’t fully confirmed a strong link—but it hasn’t ruled it out either.

Why It Feels Like Crime Increases

Even when statistics don’t support a spike, many still believe in the full moon effect. That could be due to something called confirmation bias. If you’re expecting wild behavior, you’re more likely to notice it. And if something unusual does happen, you may blame the moon—because you were already watching for it.

The full moon is also big, bright, and hard to ignore. It sticks in our minds more than an average night. So if something goes wrong, it’s easy to connect it to the moon.

The Role of Light and Sleep

There could be subtle reasons behind the belief. Full moons are brighter, especially in rural areas. That could lead to more people staying out late. More people outside can sometimes mean more opportunities for crime.

Full moons may also affect sleep. Some studies suggest people sleep less during a full moon. Poor sleep can lead to irritability or risky behavior. It’s not a direct link to crime—but it could influence decision-making.

A Psychological Pull

Even if the moon doesn’t cause crime, the belief alone can be powerful. Expectation shapes perception. Some people feel more emotional or on edge during a full moon. That heightened emotion might lead to poor choices or conflict.

In law enforcement and emergency work, the myth is so widespread that it becomes part of the culture. People might prepare for more chaos—not because it’s proven, but because it’s tradition.

Final Thoughts

The full moon has always captured our imagination. Whether it truly raises crime rates or not, it clearly affects how we see the world. Our minds look for patterns and connections—even in the night sky.

For now, the jury is still out. But the mystery lives on. So the next time a full moon rises and things get weird, you won’t be alone in wondering if there’s more to it.

Explore the connection between full moons and crime. Myth, science, and mystery collide in this look at lunar influence on behavior.

Let’s Travel to Boise, Idaho

Posted on April 10, 2025March 25, 2025 by gigis ramblings

Boise, Idaho, is a hidden gem that combines outdoor adventure, a thriving arts scene, and a welcoming small-town feel. Surrounded by breathtaking mountains and the Boise River, this city offers visitors a perfect mix of nature and culture. Pack your bags and get ready to explore the City of Trees!

Image by Jesse Bridgewater from Pixabay

Interesting Facts:

The City of Trees: Boise got its nickname due to the abundance of trees along the Boise River, which early French explorers named “Les Bois” (The Woods).
Largest Basque Population in the U.S.: Boise is home to one of the largest Basque communities outside of Spain, with a dedicated Basque Block downtown.
A High-Altitude Capital: At 2,730 feet above sea level, Boise is one of the highest-elevation state capitals in the U.S.
Potato Country: Idaho is famous for its potatoes, and Boise celebrates this legacy with the Idaho Potato Museum just a short drive away.

Image by Janine from Pixabay

Useful Information:

Best Time to Visit: Spring (April to June) and fall (September to October) offer mild weather and beautiful outdoor scenery.
What to Wear: Pack layers, as temperatures can vary. Comfortable hiking shoes are essential for outdoor activities.
Getting Around: A car is the best way to explore, but Boise’s Greenbelt and bike-friendly streets make walking and cycling great options.

Image by Don White from Pixabay

What to Do:

Explore the Boise River Greenbelt: Walk or bike along this scenic 25-mile trail that winds through the city, offering river views and wildlife sightings.
Visit the Idaho State Capitol: Take a tour of this historic government building, featuring beautiful architecture and rich state history.
Stroll the Basque Block: Experience Boise’s unique Basque heritage through authentic restaurants, cultural museums, and live performances.
Hike in the Boise Foothills: Enjoy stunning views of the city and beyond with hikes like Camel’s Back Park or Table Rock.
Discover the Old Idaho Penitentiary: Tour this former prison-turned-museum, which offers a fascinating glimpse into Idaho’s past.
Visit the Boise Art Museum: Browse a diverse collection of contemporary and classic art in this highly regarded cultural institution.

Related: Let’s Travel to Augusta

5 Tiny Habits That Make My Day Better

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

Image by OREANA TOMASSINI from Pixabay

I’m all about the little things. The small habits that take just a few minutes but make a big difference. You don’t need a full-on morning makeover—just a few easy tweaks can help your day flow better, feel calmer, and even be a little more productive.

Here are five tiny habits that genuinely make my day better.

1. Starting My Day at 5 AM

I know that sounds early, but it works for me. I get up at 5 AM so I’m not rushing through the morning. It gives me time to breathe, reset, and move with purpose.

One of my favorite parts of this early start is the ride to drop my husband off at work. That quiet commute is my chance to read morning affirmations or dive into something uplifting—whether it’s a personal development podcast or even a historical speech that feeds my mind and soul.

2. A Morning Shower with a Podcast

By 6 AM, I’m hopping into the shower, and that’s when I really wake up. The hot water, the quiet… it’s like a reset button. I almost always pop on a true crime podcast or listen to a motivational speaker while I’m getting ready. It’s just part of my rhythm now, and it helps me start the day on a high note—either learning something new or just being entertained.

3. Making the Bed—Always

This one is quick but powerful. I can’t leave the room without making the bed. It just doesn’t sit right with me. It takes maybe two minutes, but it gives the whole room a sense of calm and order.

Plus, coming home to a made bed? That’s the adult version of a hug.

4. Taking Five Minutes to Tidy Up at Night

I’m not talking about scrubbing floors here—just a quick reset before bed. I do a quick vacuum, toss any dirty clothes in the wash, pack the hubby’s lunch then wipe down the counters, and make sure the house feels settled.

It helps me sleep better knowing I won’t wake up to chaos. And morning me? She’s always thankful for that little effort.

5. Midday Movement

If I’m working from home and the day starts to drag, I get up and move. Even if it’s just stretching, walking to the mailbox, or doing a couple of trips up and down the stairs—it counts.

That small burst of movement helps me clear my head and get my energy back. Sometimes I take Pandora with me, sometimes I walk in silence. Either way, I always return feeling more focused.

Final Thought

These habits aren’t life-changing on their own, but when you stack them together? They add up. They help me stay grounded, productive, and just a little more sane. They’re tiny on the surface, but the impact is real.

Try one or two and see how your day feels. Sometimes, the smallest things are the most powerful.

Build a Business Without Being Online 24/7

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

Image created with Canva Dream Lab

Let’s be honest—social media can feel like a full-time job. And running a business? That’s already a full-time job. Somewhere along the way, I realized I didn’t want my life to revolve around likes, comments, and constant notifications. I’m learning to build my business in a way that supports my goals without being online all day, every day.

Why I Wanted a Change

When I first started, I thought I had to be everywhere. Instagram stories, Facebook lives, Reels, TikToks, tweets—if it existed, I felt pressure to post on it. I kept hearing that consistency was key, but the reality? I was exhausted. My creativity dried up, and I wasn’t enjoying the process anymore.

That’s when I realized something needed to shift. I didn’t start this business to burn myself out. I wanted freedom, not a digital leash.

Focusing on What Works

Instead of trying to keep up with every new feature on every app, I started narrowing my focus. Now, I stick to a few tools that actually bring results. For me, that looks like a website I can update regularly, an email list where I speak directly to my people, and a blog that drives long-term traffic.

When I do use social media, I’m more intentional. I don’t post daily—I post when I have something to say. And guess what? That’s okay.

Setting Boundaries With Social

I still show up, just not constantly. I batch content in advance, schedule posts when I can, and give myself permission to log off. My phone is no longer the boss of me.

Notifications don’t run my day. Instead, I check in when I have the time and space. That alone has helped me feel more grounded—and honestly, more productive.

Building Real Connections

One of the biggest lessons I’ve learned is that real connection matters more than reach. I’d rather have 10 meaningful conversations than 100 likes with no follow-up. When someone takes the time to comment or send a message, I respond. I build relationships. Because at the end of the day, relationships build trust—and trust builds a business.

Going Beyond the Screen

There are also so many ways to grow your business offline. Word-of-mouth referrals, local events, print materials, collaborations with other small businesses—these may not be flashy, but they’re effective. And they give you a chance to engage in the real world, which can be refreshing.

Final Thoughts

Finding balance in the digital age isn’t always easy, but it’s absolutely possible. You can grow something beautiful without being glued to your phone. You can create real impact without chasing the algorithm.

I’m still figuring it out as I go, but one thing is clear: burnout doesn’t have to be part of the process. If you’re craving more peace in your business, start by taking a step back. You might just find that less screen time leads to more success.

Why Blogging Still Matters Today

Posted on April 8, 2025April 8, 2025 by gigis ramblings

Image by Karolina Grabowska from Pixabay

We live in a world of short attention spans. TikTok, Instagram Reels, and YouTube Shorts dominate the scene.

Everyone’s scrolling fast. We’re talking lightning speed.

So, does blogging even stand a chance?

Absolutely. Blogging still matters—big time. Here’s why.

Blogs Let You Dive Deeper

Quick videos are fun, sure. But they don’t always leave room for details.

Sometimes, you want more than 30 seconds. You want answers, insight, or a good story.

Blogs give you that space. They let you expand on ideas, offer tips, and actually teach something.

You can’t really break down a step-by-step guide in 12 seconds. But you can in a blog post.

That’s the magic of writing—it slows things down in the best way.

Blogging Helps People Find You

Want to show up on Google? Blogs are your best friend.

TikToks don’t pop up in search results the way written content does.

When someone types a question into Google, what shows up? Blog posts, how-tos, and articles.

That means if you’ve got a blog, your stuff can get discovered again and again.

No algorithm needed. No dancing required.

Blogs Build Trust

Posting a photo or video is great. But blogging lets you share more of your voice.

You can be real. Be helpful. Be YOU.

That kind of connection builds trust. It makes people feel like they know you.

And when people trust you, they come back. Whether you’re selling something or just sharing stories, that trust matters.

You Own Your Blog

Social platforms come and go. Remember Vine? MySpace?

When you build your audience on someone else’s app, you’re renting space.

But your blog? That’s yours.

You control the content. You own the domain. You make the rules.

If Instagram shuts down tomorrow, your blog will still be standing.

Blogging Supports Social Media

Here’s a fun fact: blogging and social media actually help each other.

A blog gives you great stuff to share on your social channels.

Instead of scrambling for a new caption or video idea, you can just pull from your latest post.

It keeps your content flowing and makes you look like you’ve totally got your act together.

It’s Great for Any Personality Type

Not everyone loves being on camera. Some folks freeze up or feel awkward.

Blogging is a perfect alternative.

You can write in pajamas. No makeup, no lights, no mic.

It’s chill, flexible, and pressure-free.

If you do like video, even better—you can turn your blog into a script or add videos to your posts.

Long-Term Wins

A blog post can work for you forever.

It can bring in readers, clients, or customers for months—or even years.

One good post can keep popping up in searches long after you hit publish.

TikToks, on the other hand, tend to disappear after a few days.

So, Is Blogging Dead?

Not even close.

It’s just evolved. It works best when it’s part of a bigger content strategy.

Use it alongside social media, email newsletters, or YouTube. Let it be your content home base.

When you blog with intention, your content has staying power.

Final Thoughts

Blogging may not be flashy. But it’s effective, personal, and powerful.

It gives you space to share, connect, and grow.

So yes, even in a TikTok world—blogging still matters.

And it probably always will.

The Case That Turned Me Into a Crime Junkie

Posted on April 7, 2025April 7, 2025 by gigis ramblings

It was 1982, and I was just six years old. That summer, Waco was consumed by fear and fascination. The Lake Waco Murders had shaken our small Texas town to its core.

Three teenagers—Jill Montgomery, Raylene Rice, and Kenneth Franks—were found brutally murdered near Speegleville Park. Their deaths stunned everyone. Parents kept their children close. Strangers eyed each other with suspicion.

A Babysitter With a Dark Fascination

At the time, I had a babysitter who was endlessly intrigued by death and crime. She talked about the murders constantly. Her idea of fun? Driving us through cemeteries while telling ghost stories.

Her obsession may have been a little odd, but it planted a seed. I was a wide-eyed kid soaking in every detail, even if I didn’t fully understand it.

Twists, Turns, and Endless Questions

Eventually, David Wayne Spence was convicted for the murders. But controversy still surrounds the case. Some believe he was innocent. Others think he got what he deserved.

Regardless of which side you’re on, the story is full of twists, mystery, and courtroom drama. It was a lot for a six-year-old mind to handle—but I never forgot it.

A Chilling Coincidence

A couple of years later, things got even stranger. My babysitter’s next-door neighbor was murdered. It became another headline-grabbing case.

Serial confessor Henry Lee Lucas claimed responsibility—but that was quickly debunked. The confession was tossed out by none other than Vic Feazell, the same DA who handled the Lake Waco case.

Talk about eerie connections.

Where My True Crime Journey Began

Looking back, I know those two cases changed me. They ignited my curiosity and love for true crime. I’ve been hooked ever since.

Now, I share my passion through storytelling—and if you love Southern crime stories as much as I do, you’ll want to check out my other blog, Southern Bred Crime Junkie. It’s packed with down-South twists, small-town mysteries, and stories that stay with you.

Let’s Travel to Boca Raton, Florida

Posted on April 6, 2025March 25, 2025 by gigis ramblings

Photo Courtesy of Eugenio “The Wedding Traveler” WILMAN, FLICKR

Boca Raton, Florida, is a picturesque coastal city known for its pristine beaches, upscale shopping, and lush green spaces. With a perfect blend of relaxation and sophistication, Boca offers visitors world-class dining, outdoor adventures, and cultural attractions. Pack your bags and get ready to experience the charm of this South Florida gem!

Photo Courtesy of Mini Cooper, FLICKR

Interesting Facts:

A City by Design: Boca Raton’s signature Mediterranean Revival architecture was heavily influenced by famed architect Addison Mizner in the 1920s.
No Billboards Allowed: Boca Raton has strict zoning laws, meaning you won’t find billboards cluttering the city’s scenic streets.
IBM’s Personal Computer Began Here: The first IBM PC was developed in Boca Raton in 1981, marking a major milestone in tech history.
A Name with Mystery: “Boca Raton” translates to “Rat’s Mouth” in Spanish, but historians believe it actually refers to hidden, jagged inlets along the coast.

Photo Courtesy of Garys_view, FLICKR

Useful Information:

Best Time to Visit: The best time to visit is from November to April when the weather is warm and comfortable, avoiding the peak summer heat and humidity.
What to Wear: Light, breathable clothing is ideal for the tropical climate, along with sunglasses, sandals, and sun protection for beach outings.
Getting Around: A car is the best way to explore, but Boca also has a convenient trolley system for getting around the downtown area.

Photo courtesy of Rowan Jacobs,FLICKR

What to Do:

Relax at Red Reef Park: This beachfront park offers pristine sand, snorkeling at an artificial reef, and scenic walking trails.
Explore Mizner Park: A hub of luxury shopping, dining, and entertainment, Mizner Park is the heart of Boca’s social scene.
Visit the Gumbo Limbo Nature Center: Learn about sea turtles, walk along scenic nature trails, and explore the coastal hammock habitat.
Play a Round of Golf: Boca Raton is home to some of Florida’s best golf courses, including the exclusive Boca Raton Resort & Club.
Discover the Boca Raton Museum of Art: Featuring contemporary and classic art, this museum is a cultural gem in the heart of downtown.
Take a Sunset Cruise: Enjoy breathtaking waterfront views with a relaxing boat tour along the Intracoastal Waterway.

Related: Let’s Travel to Mystic

How I Stay Focused When Notifications Never Stop

Posted on April 6, 2025April 6, 2025 by gigis ramblings

Image by Karolina Grabowska from Pixabay

Why do people not take you seriously when they find out you work from home? People seem to think I am always available and that’s just not the case!

It’s Me vs. the Constant Ding

You sit down to get something done, and before your brain can even lock in, your phone lights up. Again. And again. It’s a never-ending cycle of distractions, and somehow, everything feels urgent—even when it isn’t.

I used to try and power through it. Respond, swipe, come back to my work… but all it really did was split my focus and wear me down. Eventually, I realized I needed to stop playing defense with my time and get intentional about how I protect it.

Do Not Disturb Isn’t Optional

Let’s get this straight—DND is not rude. It’s necessary.

If I’m working, my phone goes on Do Not Disturb. I don’t care what time it is. I don’t care if someone might need something. If it’s a real emergency, they’ll find a way to reach me. My husband and kids are the only ones that can get through, period.

This one habit changed everything. No more phone lighting up every 3 seconds. No more jumping from task to task like a squirrel with WiFi. Just peace and focus.

Notifications? Shut. Them. Down.

If you haven’t gone through your apps and turned off every unnecessary alert, what are you doing?

I don’t need to know every time someone goes live, likes a post, or drops a new sale notification. I’ve disabled badges, sounds, previews—all of it. Now, the only notifications I get are the ones I actually need: messages from family, calendar reminders, and maybe a package delivery. That’s it.

I Create a “Work Bubble”

Focus doesn’t happen by accident—it’s a whole vibe.

Before I start a task, I set the scene. Clean space. Smoothie or tea. One of my wax melts warming in the background (usually something like Mystical Rayne or Lynleigh’s Lemon Meringue for that fresh, calm energy). I turn on ambient sounds or a lo-fi playlist, and suddenly my brain knows—it’s time to get locked in.

I Don’t Trust Myself (And That’s Smart)

Look, I’m not going to lie to myself and pretend I won’t reach for my phone. I will. So I set up boundaries for that, too.

I keep my phone out of reach during work blocks and use a site blocker on my browser. If it’s not accessible, I won’t use it. And when I do need a break, I schedule it—10 minutes to scroll, stretch, snack. I take lunch when my husband does so we can talk, then it’s back to business.

Final Thoughts: Take Back Your Focus

The world isn’t going to stop interrupting you. It’s not going to get quieter. So you’ve got to be the one to take control.

Turn off what doesn’t matter. Create space that supports your focus. And stop feeling guilty for setting boundaries with your attention.

You don’t owe constant access to anyone.

You owe yourself progress—and peace.