Texas BBQ Road Trip: Where to Eat in July

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

If you’re like me, the smell of smoke and sizzle is basically perfume. July in Texas means it’s hotter than a goat’s butt in a pepper patch—but it’s also the perfect time for a good old-fashioned BBQ road trip. From brisket that melts in your mouth to ribs so tender they fall apart when you blink, this list will steer you to some of the tastiest pits across the Lone Star State.

Lockhart – The Barbecue Capital of Texas

No Texas BBQ road trip is complete without a stop in Lockhart. This tiny town packs a meaty punch with legendary joints like Kreuz Market, Black’s Barbecue, and Smitty’s Market. They’ve been slinging brisket and sausage links for generations. Each spot has its own vibe, but the smoke ring and flavor stay strong across the board.

Austin – Big City, Bigger Flavors

Austin isn’t just the state capital—it’s a BBQ heavyweight. Franklin Barbecue is world-famous, and yes, the lines are long, but that brisket? Worth it. Don’t skip out on Micklethwait Craft Meats for creative sausage blends or Leroy and Lewis for something a little experimental with bold, smoky flavor.

Taylor – Where Brisket Dreams Come True

Louie Mueller Barbecue is the crown jewel of Taylor. The pit-stained walls tell a story of decades of slow-smoked perfection. If you’re after that pepper-crusted bark and juicy inside, this is your holy ground. Get there early—they run out.

Luling – Watermelon and Meaty Goodness

You might know Luling for its watermelon festival, but the real treat is City Market. Order at the counter straight from the pitmasters behind the glass, and take your tray into the dining room where meat comes on butcher paper and nothing gets between you and that smoky flavor.

Llano – Home of the Big Chop

Head on out to Llano and make a stop at Cooper’s Old Time Pit Bar-B-Que. This place is legendary for its “Big Chop,” a thick, juicy pork chop smoked to perfection. You pick your meat straight off the pit, and it gets dipped in their signature mop sauce before it even hits your tray. Sit at one of the long picnic tables, roll up your sleeves, and dig in. It’s BBQ the old-school Texas way, and worth every mile of the drive.

Houston – Hidden Gems in the Bayou City

Houston’s BBQ scene is exploding with flavor. Truth BBQ is one of the standouts—don’t skip the sides. And if you’re craving some classic Southern charm with your smoke, check out The Pit Room or Pinkerton’s Barbecue. You’ll find yourself licking your fingers before the plate’s halfway done.

San Antonio – South Texas Flavors

You know I gotta give a nod to San Antonio. 2M Smokehouse blends Mexican flavors with Texas tradition in a way that hits you right in the taste buds. Tender brisket, creamy mac, homemade pickles—this spot brings the heat and the heart.

Brenham – Small Town, Big Taste

Nestled between Austin and Houston, Brenham isn’t just Blue Bell country—it’s also home to LJ’s BBQ. These folks are smoking meats that rival the big dogs. And if you’re lucky, you’ll catch one of their specialty days. Smoked turkey? Burnt ends? Yes, ma’am.

Tips for the Road

Come hungry. Most of these joints sell out daily, especially by lunchtime. Bring cash for the old-school places, and don’t be afraid to eat at a picnic table under a shade tree. The more rustic the setting, the better the flavor seems to be.

Final Thoughts

There ain’t no wrong turn on a Texas BBQ road trip—just meatier detours. Whether you’re after melt-in-your-mouth brisket, juicy ribs, or house-made sausage, July is the perfect month to gas up the truck, roll down the windows, and chase the smoke across the Lone Star State. So grab a cold drink, pack some wet wipes, and hit the road hungry.

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.

Red, White & Broke: How to Celebrate on a Budget

Posted on July 2, 2025July 2, 2025 by gigis ramblings

Image by Jill Wellington from Pixabay

The Fourth of July is supposed to be all fireworks, flags, and freedom… but let’s be real—when it falls right after rent is due, it can feel more like Red, White, and Broke.

Between that mortgage or rent payment, utility bills, car notes, and gas just to get to work, it’s no wonder so many of us are stretching pennies at the beginning of the month. Add in inflation that doesn’t quit, and suddenly those big party plans start looking more like hot dogs on a paper towel—and even that feels a little fancy.

But just because your bank account is waving a white flag doesn’t mean your holiday spirit has to.

Host a “BYO Everything” Backyard Bash

If you’re the social one in the group but not the bankroll behind the barbecue, make it a potluck-style party. Tell your friends to bring their own chairs, drinks, and something to throw on the grill. You supply the good vibes and maybe some Dollar store sparklers. It takes the pressure off you and turns your gathering into a real community moment.

Free Fireworks Are Everywhere

Skip the ticketed events. Most towns and cities offer free fireworks shows in public parks or downtown areas. Pack a cooler, grab an old blanket, and get there early for a good spot.

Parade Your Pride (for Free)

Small-town parades are festive, family-friendly, and totally free. They’ve got flags, candy tosses, tractors, beauty queens, and old cars—what more could you want? Bring a foldable chair and a cold drink and enjoy being part of something without having to spend a thing.

DIY Fun for the Kids

If you’ve got little ones around, you don’t need expensive fireworks or bounce houses to keep ‘em happy. Fill up a kiddie pool, let ‘em run wild with sidewalk chalk and water balloons, and crank up a patriotic playlist. Dollar store glow sticks turn into magic once the sun sets—and the kids won’t know the difference.

Shop Smart & Early

If you’re planning to cook, don’t wait until July 3rd to hit the store. Grab meats and fixin’s a week or two ahead when prices are lower. Stock up on basics that’ll stretch—think hot dogs, pasta salad, and big pitchers of homemade sweet tea or lemonade.

Repurpose What You’ve Got

Before you spend a cent on decorations, check your stash. Old bandanas? Red Solo cups? Blue plates from last year’s birthday? That works. Red, white, and blue doesn’t need to be a whole aesthetic—it just needs to be fun and festive.

Get Creative with Entertainment

You don’t need a band or DJ. Make a playlist, or even better—invite a cousin who still thinks he’s the next country music star and let him play his guitar on the back porch. Classic backyard games like cornhole, horseshoes, or even a good ol’ game of hide-n-seek can be just as fun as any fancy event.

The Bottom Line? You Don’t Need Big Bucks to Make Big Memories

Most of us are feelin’ the pinch right now. And the truth is, what we all really want on the Fourth is good company, some decent food, and maybe a firework or two lighting up the sky.

So go ahead and celebrate this Independence Day your way—authentically, affordably, and full of heart.

Because it ain’t about how much you spend, it’s about who you spend it with.

July Horoscopes with a Side of Grits

Posted on July 1, 2025July 2, 2025 by gigis ramblings

It’s hotter than a billy goat in a pepper patch, and the stars are actin’ up again, y’all. July’s bringin’ some cosmic chaos with a side of sweet tea. Whether you’re settin’ off fireworks or settin’ boundaries, this month’s horoscopes come with a little Southern twist—because even the zodiac deserves some charm and cornbread.

Aries (March 21 – April 19)

Mood: Firecracker with a fuse
You’re feelin’ bold and bossy, like your meemaw when someone messes with her deviled eggs recipe. Channel that energy into something productive before you burn a bridge or bless someone’s heart a little too hard.

Southern Sayin’: “Don’t start nothin’, won’t be nothin’.”

Taurus (April 20 – May 20)

Mood: Porch sittin’ and pie eatin’
You’re all about comfort this month—whether it’s comfort food, comfort TV, or just a good nap with the fan on high. Don’t let folks guilt you for takin’ it slow. You’re preservin’ your peace and your air conditioning bill.

Southern Sayin’: “If it ain’t broke, don’t fix it.”

Gemini (May 21 – June 20)

Mood: Two-step between chaos and charm
You’re busier than a mosquito at a nudist colony. But sugar, try to focus. July’s got opportunities comin’ in hot, but if you don’t pick a lane, you’re gonna miss the exit—and maybe a BBQ invite, too.

Southern Sayin’: “You can’t ride two horses with one behind.”

Cancer (June 21 – July 22)

Mood: Soft shell, spicy center
You’re extra tender right now, and that’s okay. Wrap yourself up in something cozy (preferably monogrammed), and don’t be afraid to cry over country songs or grocery store commercials. Lean into feelin’ it all.

Southern Sayin’: “Sometimes you just need a good cry and a casserole.”

Leo (July 23 – August 22)

Mood: Pageant queen energy
It’s your season, darlin’, and you are feelin’ yourself. Take the spotlight, but try not to hog the mic at karaoke night. You’re magnetic, loud, and just the right amount of dramatic—but don’t forget to share that shine.

Southern Sayin’: “You ain’t gotta be loud to be seen—but it sure helps.”

Virgo (August 23 – September 22)

Mood: Blessin’ messes left and right
You’re organized, focused, and absolutely done with everyone else’s disorganization. But slow down, sugarplum. Not everybody folds their towels the way you do—and that’s okay (even if they’re wrong).

Southern Sayin’: “Fix your own plate before worryin’ about mine.”

Libra (September 23 – October 22)

Mood: Floatin’ like a paper fan in church
You’re tryin’ to keep the peace, but July’s got drama poppin’ up like uninvited cousins at a cookout. Set some boundaries, drink your water, and remember: mind ya business. Stay safe out here, my fellow Libras!

Southern Sayin’: “You ain’t gotta attend every fuss you’re invited to.”

Scorpio (October 23 – November 21)

Mood: Mystery with a mason jar full of secrets
You’re broodin’ like a storm over the Gulf, and folks are curious what’s brewin’. Let ‘em wonder. July’s a good time to be strategic, play it cool, and maybe plot your next big move in the shadows like a catfish waitin’ for bait.

Southern Sayin’: “Still waters run deep—and probably hold grudges.”

Sagittarius (November 22 – December 21)

Mood: Wild like a bull out the gate
You’ve got the travel bug worse than ever. If you can’t hit the road, at least hit the drive-thru for somethin’ fried and smothered. Just don’t let that restless spirit make you reckless with your words. Mind your manners, even when you’re wildin’.

Southern Sayin’: “Don’t let your mouth overload your ass.”

Capricorn (December 22 – January 19)

Mood: Workin’ like it’s harvest season
You’re stackin’ goals like Granny stacks her coupon drawer. July’s got money moves and responsibility written all over it—but don’t forget to take your boots off and rest a spell. You’re no good to nobody runnin’ on fumes.

Southern Sayin’: “Even tractors need to cool off now and then.”

Aquarius (January 20 – February 18)

Mood: Wacky, wild, and a little wonderful
You’re beatin’ to your own drum, as usual, and July only encourages that. Keep innovatin’, keep dreamin’, but maybe tether yourself to reality before someone calls Mama to come get you off the roof again.

Southern Sayin’: “You ain’t right—and that’s what we love about you.”

Pisces (February 19 – March 20)

Mood: Sensitive like a biscuit in a rainstorm
You’re extra intuitive this month, pickin’ up on vibes nobody else can feel. That’s a gift, sugar, but it can wear you down. Protect your energy like you protect your grandma’s cornbread recipe.

Southern Sayin’: “Not every pot’s yours to stir.”

Whether you’re sweatin’ through your tank top or leanin’ into some big life shifts, July’s a wild ride, honey. Let the stars guide you—but remember, down South, we trust our gut and our Mammaw’s advice just as much.

Now go on, check your moon sign and grab some watermelon.

It’s Beginning to Smell a Lot Like… July?

Posted on June 30, 2025June 30, 2025 by gigis ramblings

Image by Ragy Sabry from Pixabay

It might feel like it’s 103 degrees here in Texas, but y’all… my heart? It’s somewhere between a pumpkin patch and a snowy small-town Christmas parade with a suspiciously handsome single dad and a hot cocoa stand. You know what that means—Hallmark’s Christmas in July is back, and this girl is already in full-blown ‘ber month mode!

I’m an October Baby, What Did You Expect?

Fall is my favorite season—hands down. The crisp air, the colors, the pumpkins, the cozy nights with a candle flickerin’ or a wax melt warming… yes ma’am, sign me up. And Christmas? Well, that’s just the cherry on top. It’s not just a holiday—it’s a whole vibe, a memory-making season that makes my heart burst like the buttons on Santa’s coat.

My Cozy Season Kickoff Ritual

Every year, Hallmark’s Christmas in July kicks off a little something in me. I pull out my blankie, flip on a cheesy Christmas movie, and let myself feel those cozy, nostalgic, cinnamon-scented feelings. And while I’m watchin’ snowflakes fall on screen, I’m also already tinkerin’ with ideas for my 2025 Fall & Holiday Wax Melt Collection for Mama Crow’s.

Planning for Magic

Yep, I’m already sniffin’, blending, and daydreamin’ about which scents are gonna make the cut next year. Will Pumpkin Apple Cider return for a third season? Will Reindeer Poo get a new pepperminty twist? Should I bring in something brand new like Maple Bourbon Latte or Cozy Flannel Blanket?

Now’s when the magic starts—when scent memories from years past meet new inspiration. The ideas come while I’m watching a Christmas tree lighting in July or listening to sleigh bells while my AC is blasting.

Want to Help?

Y’all know I always love hearing your thoughts! What scents scream fall to you? What’s your go-to Christmas vibe—baked goods, snowy pine, candy cane wonderland, or something else entirely? Drop me a comment or message—I’m building the list now and would love your input!

Let’s Travel to New York City

Posted on June 30, 2025June 30, 2025 by gigis ramblings

Image by David Vives from Pixabay

New York City, New York, is a bustling metropolis where towering skyscrapers, world-famous landmarks, and diverse cultures come together. Whether you’re drawn to Broadway lights, Central Park strolls, historic neighborhoods, or iconic food, NYC offers an experience like no other. It’s a city that never sleeps and always has something new to discover. So, pack your walking shoes and get ready to explore the fast-paced charm of the Big Apple.

Image by Guy Percival from Pixabay

Interesting Facts

Statue of Liberty: This iconic symbol of freedom was a gift from France in 1886 and greets visitors arriving by boat in New York Harbor.
Central Park: Spanning 843 acres, Central Park is larger than the country of Monaco and offers everything from boating to live performances.
Subway System: NYC has the largest public transit system in the U.S. with 472 stations, making it easy to get around the five boroughs.
Cultural Diversity: Over 800 languages are spoken in New York, making it the most linguistically diverse city in the world.

Useful Information

Best Time to Visit: Spring (April to June) and fall (September to November) are ideal for pleasant weather and fewer crowds at popular attractions.
What to Wear: Comfortable clothes and walking shoes are a must. Bring layers since weather can shift quickly, especially between seasons.
Getting Around: The subway is the most efficient way to travel around the city. Taxis, buses, and rideshares are also widely available.

Image by Tim from Pixabay

What to Do

Visit the Statue of Liberty & Ellis Island: Take a ferry to these historic sites to learn about immigration and see NYC from the water.
Stroll Through Central Park: Rent a bike, have a picnic, or explore landmarks like Bethesda Fountain and Bow Bridge.
Explore the American Museum of Natural History: Perfect for all ages, this massive museum features dinosaurs, space exhibits, and world cultures.
Walk the Brooklyn Bridge: Enjoy sweeping skyline views as you walk from Manhattan to Brooklyn on one of the city’s oldest landmarks.
Catch a Broadway Show: See a world-class performance in the Theater District. Many theaters also offer same-day discounted tickets.

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.

Signs You’re Not Just Tired, You’re Spiritually Exhausted

Posted on June 29, 2025June 29, 2025 by gigis ramblings

Image by Engin Akyurt from Pixabay

We all get tired—physically, mentally, emotionally. But there’s a different kind of tired that hits deeper. The kind that no nap, day off, or bubble bath can fix. If you’ve been feeling off lately and can’t quite put your finger on it, you may be spiritually exhausted.

This kind of burnout doesn’t just sneak up on you—it builds slowly, quietly, until one day, you feel completely disconnected from everything that once made you feel alive. Here’s how to tell if you’re not just tired… you’re soul-deep exhausted.

You Feel Disconnected from Everything

You’re surrounded by people, but you feel alone. Conversations feel shallow, and the things that used to bring you joy now just feel like items on a to-do list. Spiritual exhaustion can make the world feel like it’s moving around you, but you’re not really in it. You’re watching life happen instead of living it.

Motivation Has Left the Building

Tasks that used to be easy now feel overwhelming. Even getting out of bed can feel like climbing a mountain. You’re not lazy—you’re drained. When your spirit’s running on empty, motivation naturally fizzles out. It’s not about being unwilling, it’s about being unable to care.

You’re Emotionally Numb or Extra Sensitive

Some days you feel nothing. Other days you feel everything all at once. Small things either don’t affect you at all or make you completely unravel. That emotional imbalance is a sign your inner self is screaming for attention and rest.

You Crave Silence but Fear Stillness

You might avoid your own thoughts because being still makes you uncomfortable. At the same time, you’re desperate for silence because the noise of life feels too loud. It’s a paradox that makes you restless and uneasy, and it often shows up during spiritual depletion.

You Start Questioning Everything

Your purpose, your relationships, your path—nothing feels clear. It’s like the fog rolled in, and you can’t see more than a few feet ahead. You’re not just tired; you’re spiritually lost and craving some sort of sign to get back on track.

You’re Constantly Running on Empty

Even after a full night’s sleep, a weekend off, or a vacation, you still feel wiped out. That’s a big red flag. Your body’s rested, but your soul is still weary. No amount of physical rest can fix a soul that’s been neglected for too long.

You’ve Lost Your Sense of Joy and Wonder

Remember when the little things used to light you up? A sunrise, a good song, a deep conversation? If none of that moves you anymore, your spirit might be crying out for reconnection. Life hasn’t gotten dull—you’ve just lost your spark.

You’re Easily Irritated and Overwhelmed

Every little thing feels like too much. You find yourself snapping more often or shutting down altogether. This isn’t just stress—it’s the symptom of being completely drained. Your capacity is shot, and your spirit is waving the white flag.

You’ve Pulled Away from Spiritual Practices

If you used to pray, meditate, journal, or spend time in nature—and now you don’t—it might be because you’ve fallen out of alignment. When you’re spiritually exhausted, even the things that used to refuel you can feel pointless. But ironically, they’re what you need most.

How to Start Refilling Your Cup

The good news? You don’t have to stay stuck in this place. Start small. Step away from the noise. Sit with your feelings. Spend time with people who light you up. Revisit the things that once made you feel connected—even if just for five minutes. Get outside. Cry if you need to. Be honest about what’s not working in your life.

Most importantly, don’t ignore the signs. Your spirit matters just as much as your body and mind. When it’s run down, everything else eventually follows. You’re allowed to rest. You’re allowed to feel. And you’re allowed to come back stronger and more whole than ever.

If this hit a little close to home, you’re not alone. Spiritual exhaustion is real—but healing is, too. Start with compassion. Add in some space. The rest will come.

I’m Not a Morning Person, But Here’s What Helps

Posted on June 25, 2025June 27, 2025 by gigis ramblings

Image by Marfa Bogdanovskaya from Pixabay

I wake up at 5 a.m. most mornings—not because I want to, but because my husband has to be at work before sunrise. And since I’m the unofficial unpaid family Uber driver, I don’t have a choice. I’ve never been a morning person and probably never will be, but I’ve figured out how to survive the early hours without being a complete gremlin.

If you’ve got a job, a spouse, a kid, or a dog dragging you out of bed before the sun even thinks about rising, here’s what actually helps.

I Set My Alarm to Something That Doesn’t Scare Me Half to Death

No sirens. No buzzing. No angry robot sounds. I set my alarm to a soft tone that gently wakes me up. It’s still awful, but it doesn’t make me throw my phone across the room. I’m already getting up before most humans—I don’t need a mini heart attack on top of it.

I Don’t Think—I Just Move

If I sit there even five seconds too long, I’ll talk myself out of getting up. So I have one rule: don’t think. I roll out of bed like it’s a fire drill. Groggy? Yep. Grumpy? Probably. But if I just get my body moving, my brain eventually catches up… around the time I hit the driveway.

Lights On Immediately (Even If I Hate It)

My eyeballs hate it, but I turn the lights on the second I stand up. No dim cozy vibes here—this ain’t a spa. Bright lights flip the switch in my brain that says, “Fine, I’m awake.” It works faster than caffeine. (Which I don’t even drink—bless all y’all coffee folks, but I’m not one of you.)

I Keep It Quiet and Calm (I Ain’t Got Words Yet)

I don’t want to hear the news, a podcast, or even happy people talking before the sun comes up. Instead, I ease into the day by reading or just silence. Santiago knows better than to ask questions that require real answers before I drop him off. Early morning peace = survival.

I Reward Myself When I Get Home

The only thing that keeps me from spiraling into a sleepy rage is knowing I’ve got a little reward waiting when I get back. A warm shower, a cozy blanket, maybe 15 minutes of reading, scrolling, or doing nothing before the rest of the day starts. If I can just get past the drop-off, I earn that moment.

I Don’t Pretend to Be a Morning Person

I’m not baking muffins or journaling in the moonlight. I’m not doing stretches by candlelight. I’m up because I have to be, and I make the best of it—but I don’t fake it. If you’re forcing yourself through early mornings, give yourself grace. Some of us aren’t wired to love the a.m. grind, and that’s perfectly fine.

I still grumble. I still hit snooze once. But I get it done. And over time, I’ve built little routines that help make the mornings feel less brutal. I may never love early mornings—but I’ve learned how to live with them.

What Healing Actually Looks Like in Real Life

Posted on June 24, 2025June 25, 2025 by gigis ramblings

Image by Rang Oza from Pixabay

Most people picture healing like a movie montage—quick, tidy, and with a feel-good soundtrack. But real life? It’s messier. Healing rarely arrives in a straight line, and it definitely doesn’t show up on schedule. The truth is, it can be confusing, clumsy, and unexpectedly beautiful.

Let’s talk about what healing actually looks like—outside of therapy quotes and Instagram reels.

You Still Cry Sometimes

Healing doesn’t mean the pain is gone. It means you’ve learned to live beside it. You might still cry when a song hits too hard or when a memory sneaks up out of nowhere. That’s not failure. That’s healing.

You’re no longer trying to shove it down or run from it. You’re allowing the emotion to exist without it owning you.

You Outgrow People (and Places)

It might sting a little when you stop reaching out to the friend you used to tell everything to. Or when that once-comforting place now makes you feel small.

Healing often means stepping into a new version of yourself—and that version might not fit into your old life. That’s okay. You’re not being cold. You’re being honest with your needs.

Some Days Feel Like Setbacks

You’ll have days where it feels like you’ve made zero progress. You might snap at someone you love. You might stay in bed all day. That doesn’t erase all the good days.

Healing is recognizing that one hard day doesn’t mean you’re broken. It means you’re still human—and you’re still working through it.

You Protect Your Peace (More Often)

One subtle sign of healing? You stop explaining yourself so much. You begin setting quiet boundaries. You might leave a room when the energy shifts, turn your phone off when you’re overwhelmed, or say no without guilt.

You start realizing your peace is precious—and that’s a huge win.

You Celebrate the Little Wins

Maybe you didn’t cry today. Maybe you finally called the doctor. Maybe you sat outside and felt the sun on your face without your thoughts racing.

Healing shows up in tiny ways. And those tiny moments? They stack up and become big victories over time.

You’re Kinder to Yourself

That voice in your head—the one that used to be brutal? It softens. You might still get frustrated, but now you catch yourself.

Instead of spiraling into shame, you say, “I’m doing the best I can.” That shift? That’s healing, plain and simple.

You Start Looking Forward Again

One day, without realizing it, you’ll laugh from your belly. You’ll make plans for next week. You’ll get excited about something again.

It may feel foreign at first—like trying to walk in a new pair of shoes. But it’s your heart reminding you that it still believes in joy.

Real Healing Isn’t Always Pretty

Sometimes healing looks like crying on your kitchen floor, journaling until your hand hurts, or going for a walk just to breathe.

It’s unfiltered. It’s real. It’s raw.

But underneath it all is something powerful—hope. The kind that says, “Even if I’m not there yet, I’m still moving forward.”

Reclaiming Your Identity After Raising Kids

Posted on June 23, 2025June 24, 2025 by gigis ramblings

Image by Gisela Merkuur from Pixabay

When the kids grow up and the house starts to feel quieter (okay, eerily quiet), a surprising question can bubble up: Now what? After years of school pickups, endless laundry, teen drama, and living on energy drinks and very little sleep, it’s completely normal to look in the mirror and think, Who even am I now?

The good news? You’re still in there. And better yet—you’ve got the freedom to rediscover yourself in brand-new ways.

You’re Not Just “Mom” or “Dad”

Let’s be honest—parenthood can consume your entire identity. For years, you’re known as “Ashley’s mom” or “Justin’s dad,” and that becomes your entire social headline. But now? You’re more than just someone’s parent. You’re a person with passions, goals, quirks, and probably a few hobbies that got buried under piles of permission slips and baseball cleats.

So where do you begin? Start small. Think about what used to make you happy before the house was taken over by tiny humans. Did you love painting? Gardening? Dancing in your kitchen to 80s hits? Guess what—you can do that again.

Try Something New (or Dust Off Something Old)

You don’t need a big, dramatic reinvention. Even tiny steps count.

Always wanted to write a book? Open a blank doc and just start typing. Curious about pottery? Sign up for a beginner class. Craved solo travel? Take that weekend trip without needing to pack snacks for three. Or maybe you used to love photography before your phone’s camera roll got overtaken by baby milestone pics—go ahead and shoot something that isn’t a toddler with spaghetti on their head.

The idea is to make room for you again. Not the parent version of you, but the real, unfiltered version who doesn’t have to share their fries anymore.

Your Identity Isn’t Lost—It Just Evolved

Here’s the thing: you never actually lost your identity. You just pressed pause for a little while. Raising kids is no joke, and it naturally shifts your priorities. But that core “you” never left. She just adapted. She learned to multitask like a boss, love like no one else can, and survive sleep deprivation better than a Navy SEAL.

Now that you’ve got breathing room, your identity is ready to stretch its legs again. And this version? She’s wiser, funnier, and a whole lot stronger than the 20-something version.

Make New Connections (Even If It’s Awkward at First)

Once the kids leave the nest, your social circle might shrink faster than your patience during teenage years. Reconnecting with old friends or making new ones can feel intimidating—but it’s worth it. Start dating your spouse again, or simply invite a friend out for lunch and talk about something other than kids.

At first, it might feel weird to talk about your life instead of theirs. But give it time. You’ll remember how to have conversations that don’t revolve around Algebra grades or PTA drama.

You Deserve This Next Chapter

For so long, your schedule has been wrapped around everyone else. But now? You’ve got the green light to live for yourself again. This isn’t selfish—it’s necessary. When you reclaim your identity, you become a better partner, friend, and yes, even parent. (Because let’s be real, they still call when the Wi-Fi goes out.)

Whether you’re starting a business, learning to cook something that isn’t kid-approved, or simply enjoying the peace of an uninterrupted bath—own this season. You earned it.

Final Thoughts

Reclaiming your identity after raising kids doesn’t mean throwing away everything you were. It means blending the best parts of who you were, who you are, and who you want to be. There’s beauty in rediscovery, joy in the unknown, and power in finally saying, This chapter’s for me.

So go ahead. Try the weird hobby. Take the trip. Start the blog. Dance like nobody’s watching—even if your adult children tease you in the group chat. You’ve still got plenty of living left to do, and now’s the perfect time to do it your way.

Let’s Travel to Las Vegas, Nevada

Posted on June 20, 2025June 20, 2025 by gigis ramblings

Image by Danor Aharon from Pixabay

Las Vegas, Nevada, is a dazzling desert destination known for its world-famous entertainment, over-the-top attractions, and vibrant energy. But beyond the bright lights of the Strip, Vegas offers unique museums, stunning natural wonders, and family-friendly fun. Whether you’re catching a show, riding a roller coaster, or exploring the nearby Red Rock Canyon, Las Vegas has something for everyone. So, pack your bags and get ready to experience the magic of the Entertainment Capital of the World.

Image by Esther Carabasa from Pixabay

Interesting Facts

The Strip Isn’t in Vegas: Most of what people think of as the Las Vegas Strip is actually located in Paradise, Nevada—not the city of Las Vegas itself.
Neon Museum: Vegas is home to the Neon Boneyard, a resting place for the city’s retired neon signs, preserving its flashy past in glowing color.
World’s Brightest Spot: The Las Vegas Strip is visible from space thanks to its massive concentration of lights.
Red Rock Canyon: Just a short drive from the Strip, Red Rock Canyon offers hiking, rock climbing, and scenic drives through desert landscapes.

Image from Pixabay

Useful Information

Best Time to Visit: Spring (March to May) and fall (September to November) offer pleasant weather without the extreme desert heat.
What to Wear: Lightweight, breathable clothes are ideal, especially during warmer months. Bring a hat, sunglasses, and comfy shoes for lots of walking.
Getting Around: The Strip is walkable, but it’s long. The Monorail, buses, ride-shares, and taxis are convenient options. Renting a car is handy for day trips.

Image by Marco Fenner from Pixabay

What to Do

Ride the High Roller: Located at The LINQ Promenade, this 550-foot observation wheel offers unbeatable views of the Las Vegas skyline.
Explore the Bellagio Conservatory & Fountains: Stroll through seasonal floral displays and catch the famous water fountain show set to music.
Visit the Shark Reef Aquarium: Located at Mandalay Bay, this family-friendly attraction features sharks, rays, sea turtles, and more.
Check Out the Neon Museum: Learn the history behind Las Vegas’s glitzy signs and snap photos with iconic pieces of the past.
Take a Day Trip to Red Rock Canyon: Hike or drive through stunning desert scenery just 30 minutes from the Strip.

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.