Where I Find God When I’m Not Looking for Him

Posted on July 29, 2025July 30, 2025 by gigis ramblings

I don’t always go searching for God, but somehow—He always finds me. And most of the time, it’s not during a church service or a formal prayer. It’s in the small, sacred moments I never expect.

He Shows Up in the Silence

It’s funny how loud the world is. There’s always something buzzing, ringing, or demanding attention. But sometimes, in the middle of a chaotic day, everything gets quiet. Maybe it’s early morning before the house wakes up or that hush that follows a thunderstorm. And in that stillness, I feel something I can’t explain. A peace that doesn’t make sense. A knowing that I’m not alone.

I See Him in People

It’s not always in the obvious “church folks” either. I’ve seen God in the kindness of strangers, the patience of a friend who lets me ramble, and the hug from a grandchild that melts every worry away. He’s in the tired woman at the grocery store who still smiles. In the man who holds the door just because. In the person who forgives even when it’s hard. Those glimpses of grace—that’s God all over it.

He Meets Me in the Mess

Let’s be honest. Life gets messy. There are seasons when I feel burnt out, sick, behind on everything, or just plain lost. I’ve questioned Him. I’ve gotten mad. I’ve begged for answers. But even then—especially then—He shows up. Not always with a solution, but with comfort. With reminders that I’m held even when I don’t feel strong. Sometimes it’s a verse that pops into my head out of nowhere, a song on the radio, or a memory that brings tears and healing.

He’s in Nature, Too

I might be from Texas, but God’s not just in the Bible Belt. He’s in the way the sky turns pink just before dusk. He’s in the scent of honeysuckle on a warm day. In the rhythm of the waves when we finally make it to the beach. He’s in the birds that show up just when I need a sign and the wildflowers that bloom where nobody planted them. His creation whispers His presence even when I’m not listening for it.

Unexpected Conversations Bring Him Near

Some of the most God-filled conversations I’ve had didn’t start that way. A simple “how are you?” can turn into a holy moment. A phone call with a friend who just gets it. A heart-to-heart with my husband after a long day. Sometimes those talks turn into confessions, prayers, laughter through tears—and I walk away feeling seen, known, and loved. Not just by the person—but by God Himself.

I Don’t Always Look, but He’s Always There

I’ll admit—I don’t always wake up with my Bible open or my mind on spiritual things. Life happens. But somehow, God doesn’t wait for an invitation. He meets me where I am. On the couch with a headache. At the kitchen sink. In my car on a backroad. In the middle of grief. In the middle of joy. I’ve come to believe He’s not just with us when we call—He’s already there, gently nudging, waiting, comforting.

Final Thoughts

I don’t think we have to chase God down. I think we just have to be willing to notice Him. He’s in the background of our everyday life, weaving Himself into the ordinary. And maybe that’s the most sacred thing of all.

Lisa Crow contributed to this article. She is a true crime junkie and lifestyle blogger based in Waco, Texas. Lisa is the Head of Content at Gigi’s Ramblings and Southern Bred 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.

Finally Feeling Better and Ready for Fall

Posted on July 28, 2025July 29, 2025 by gigis ramblings

Image created with ChatGPT

After what felt like a never-ending stretch of feeling run down, I finally had a weekend that let me catch my breath—literally and figuratively. I’m happy to say I’m finally starting to feel like myself again. And thank goodness, because there’s a lot happening around here!

A Weekend of Rest, Takeout, and Fall Magic

We kept it simple this weekend. No big plans. No chaos. Just the kind of stay-in weekend that lets your body heal and your mind reset. Santiago and I ordered takeout, stayed cozy, and even managed to get some of our newest fall wax melt scents poured.

I’ve been so excited to dive into fall prep, and y’all…these new blends are something else. We’ve got a few new pumpkin-heavy scents coming, of course, but there are also some unexpected combinations I can’t wait to share. Our fall line is already one of our most popular collections, and this year we’re going even bigger.

Something Brand New: We’re Making Incense

This next part has been on my heart for a while. I’ve been wanting to create incense for the longest, and this weekend…we finally did it! It’s happening, y’all—Mama Crow’s is officially adding incense to the shop!

Right now, I’m starting with a few core scents and testing out some fall-inspired ones too. If you’ve ever wanted your space to smell like Honey Dumplin’ or Spiced Pumpkin Latte in stick form—get ready!

A Quiet But Productive Weekend

There’s something to be said for weekends that aren’t packed to the brim. This one was exactly what I needed. Restful but productive, peaceful but full of progress. I’m grateful for the slower pace, the return of my energy, and all the exciting things coming down the pipe.

If you love fall scents as much as I do, keep your eyes on the shop—things are about to smell real good around here.

Related: Fall Is Officially Here

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.

When Life Hits Hard, Consistency Matters

Posted on July 25, 2025July 25, 2025 by gigis ramblings

Image created with Canva AI

Whew. The past few days have been rough. I’ve been knocked completely off my feet with something I still can’t quite name. Fever, body aches, and quite possibly the worst headache I’ve ever had in my life. I’ve spent most of my time in bed, and while I’m grateful I can technically work from bed, that doesn’t help much when your energy’s at zero and your head feels like it’s being crushed in a vice.

So, why am I writing this? Because I haven’t posted a blog in several days, and I don’t want to fall off the face of the digital earth. Sometimes, you just need to check in and remind yourself—and your audience—that life happens. But also? This is a hard lesson in the importance of batching content.

The Reality of Falling Behind

Here’s the truth: even before I got sick, I was already behind. I’ve been feeling off for a while and staying busy with other parts of my job. Between trying to keep up with responsibilities, work projects, and life in general, blogging just kept getting pushed to “tomorrow.”

That’s a no-no when you’re trying to build a presence online. One missed post becomes two, then a week goes by, and suddenly your traffic drops, your engagement slips, and the algorithm isn’t working in your favor anymore. Whether you’re a content creator, a blogger, or running a small business, consistency is everything. Without it, your audience doesn’t know when to expect you—or if they even should.

Why Batching Content Saves You

This is where batching comes in. I preach it all the time, and yet here I am, not practicing what I preach. I had no content prepared. Not a single pre-written post to pull out in case of emergency. And this was an emergency, just not the kind you expect.

Batching content means you sit down during your good days and knock out several pieces at once. Instead of writing one blog post a day or scrambling for a caption every morning, you block out time and create a backlog. Think of it like meal prepping—but for your business.

The Benefits Are Too Big to Ignore

When you batch your content, you free up mental space, save time, and create breathing room for when life throws you a curveball. Some of the biggest benefits include:

Always having something ready to publish
Reducing daily stress and decision fatigue
Keeping your brand consistent and reliable
Being able to take time off without disappearing
Staying ahead of holidays, promotions, and busy seasons

Even if you don’t feel creative every single day, batching allows you to show up as if you do. Your audience doesn’t need to know you wrote that post two weeks ago while sipping lemon water and feeling fabulous. All they see is that you’re present and consistent.

Lessons Learned (the Hard Way)

Being sick and behind has taught me a couple things. First, I can’t afford to leave content creation to chance. Second, batching isn’t just a nice idea—it’s a non-negotiable. When you’re juggling work, life, and a million responsibilities, batching is your safety net.

I’m giving myself grace for this past week, but I’m also setting the intention to get back on track. That means carving out time to prep content, even if it’s just one or two extra posts each week. Because future me—the one who might be down with the flu, swamped with work, or taking a vacation—deserves that backup plan.

A Gentle Reminder for Fellow Creators

If you’ve been putting off batching because you feel like you don’t have the time, let this be your sign. You don’t have time not to. Life is unpredictable. Your business doesn’t have to be.

Now if you’ll excuse me, I’m going to try to get a little more rest. But at least now, I’ve got one fresh post scheduled—and a renewed commitment to practice what I preach.

Why I’d Rather Clean a Bathroom Than Answer a Phone Call

Posted on July 22, 2025July 27, 2025 by gigis ramblings

Image by Markus Spiske from Pixabay

We all have things we avoid like the plague. For me, it’s phone calls. Give me a rubber glove, some bleach, and a dirty toilet any day—just don’t make me answer my phone. It sounds dramatic, I know. But if you’re an introvert, a chronic overthinker, or just plain overstimulated by life, I bet you get it. Here’s exactly why I’ll scrub tile over taking a call every single time.

Phone Calls Feel Like an Ambush

First of all, phone calls are intrusive. They don’t wait for a good time. They demand your attention immediately, ringing with an urgency that makes your heart race even if it’s just your cousin calling to chat. Texts and emails can wait. They don’t expect you to drop what you’re doing, throw on your customer service voice, and perform a verbal tightrope act.

Cleaning the bathroom, however? It’s on my time. I can scrub, spray, and wipe down surfaces at my own pace, no performance required. The toilet never asks, “Did you get my message?” or “Are you free to talk right now?”

Awkward Silences Are Torture

In-person conversations come with body language, facial expressions, and gestures that fill in the blanks. On the phone, it’s just voices—and sometimes, it’s just silence. And not the good kind.

When there’s a pause in a phone conversation, my brain immediately spirals: Did I say something weird? Are they distracted? Should I fill the silence? It’s exhausting.

Meanwhile, when I’m elbow-deep in cleaning supplies, I can enjoy actual silence. Peaceful, productive silence that smells like lemon-scented disinfectant.

Bathroom Cleaning Has Clear Goals

Cleaning a bathroom is gross, but it’s straightforward. There’s a beginning, middle, and end. You know when the job is done. There’s satisfaction in watching grime disappear and seeing everything sparkle when you’re finished.

Phone calls, on the other hand, are unpredictable. You don’t know how long they’ll last, what they’ll be about, or whether they’ll end on a weird note. One minute you’re saying hello, the next you’re hearing about someone’s dog’s pancreatitis or being guilt-tripped into something you didn’t sign up for.

I Can Multitask When I Clean

When I’m cleaning, I can pop in my earbuds and listen to a podcast or blast some music. I can zone out and still be productive. It’s oddly therapeutic.

But when I’m on the phone? I’m stuck. I can’t do much else besides pace around the house pretending to sound engaged. Multitasking during a call feels rude, and let’s be real—holding the phone with your shoulder while scrubbing the sink isn’t exactly ergonomic.

I Have Anxiety and Phones Are Triggers

This one might hit home for more people than you think. Phone anxiety is real. It’s not just being shy or antisocial. It’s the genuine panic that creeps in when your phone rings or when you know you need to make a call.

Sometimes, even thinking about answering makes me nauseous. I start sweating, rehearsing what I’ll say, and convincing myself I’ll sound ridiculous. The bathroom? At least I know what I’m walking into. And I can wear gloves.

I’m Not Alone in This

If you feel this way, you’re definitely not the only one. More and more people—especially millennials and Gen Z—are ditching calls for texts and DMs. We grew up with caller ID, voicemail, and the sweet relief of “Do Not Disturb.” And we learned to love communication on our terms.

It’s not about being rude. It’s about managing mental load, energy, and boundaries.

Final Thoughts

So yes, I’ll gladly choose a toilet brush over a phone call. Not because I love cleaning (trust me, I don’t), but because it gives me control, clarity, and calm—three things that phone calls rarely offer. If you’re like me, know that it’s okay to screen your calls, text back later, and protect your peace. Just maybe light a candle after cleaning the bathroom, too. You’ve earned it.

How I Clean When I’m Mad

Posted on July 21, 2025July 22, 2025 by gigis ramblings

Image by svklimkin from Pixabay

Ever been so mad you could scrub the paint off the walls? Same. When I get fired up, I channel every ounce of that frustration into something productive—cleaning. It’s not just about tidying up; it’s therapy with a mop in hand. So if you’re the kind of person who needs to do something when you’re mad, this one’s for you. Here’s how I clean when I’m mad and how you can turn a bad mood into a clean house.

First, I Let the Rage Pick the Playlist

Before I touch a single sponge, I grab my phone and put on a playlist that matches my mood. We’re talkin’ angry girl anthems, Southern rock with some bite, or old-school rap that makes you feel like you can throw hands with the dust bunnies. This isn’t a soft, easy listening kind of clean—we’re deep cleaning like our feelings depend on it. And in a way, they kinda do.

I Start With Whatever’s Bugging Me Most

I don’t follow a routine when I’m mad. I go straight for the mess that’s bothering me the most. If it’s the kitchen counter stacked with dishes, that’s where I go. If it’s the laundry that’s been sitting in the dryer for two days, I’ll yank it out like it personally offended me. When I’m in a mood, I let that emotion guide me, and honestly, it works better than any chore chart ever has.

I Clean Harder, Faster, and Meaner

I don’t gently wipe things down—I scrub. I vacuum like I’m mad at the carpet. I slam trash bags around and toss clutter into the trash like I’m tossing ex-boyfriend hoodies (no offense, Santiago). And I swear, the more I clean, the more the anger melts away. It’s like I’m sweeping up my feelings and dumping ‘em out with the crumbs.

I Talk to Myself While I Do It

Don’t judge me, but when I’m mad-cleaning, I talk it out. Sometimes I mutter under my breath. Sometimes I full-on rant while wiping down the fridge. And every once in a while, I’ll laugh at how ridiculous I sound—but by then, I’m already halfway through a deep clean. Bonus: no one wants to interrupt me, so I get to clean in peace.

I Use It As a Reset

By the time I’m done, I usually feel calmer. My house looks better. My mind feels clearer. And even if the thing that made me mad is still lingering, it doesn’t feel quite as heavy. Cleaning when I’m mad gives me a way to reset without taking it out on anyone (or texting something I’ll regret).

I Don’t Aim for Perfection—Just Progress

Let’s be honest: angry cleaning isn’t always methodical. Sometimes I miss a spot. Sometimes I forget to pop in a wax melt or put things all the way back where they belong. But I’m not chasing perfection—I’m just channeling energy. And progress, especially when you’re fired up, is better than sitting around stewing.

Cleaning when I’m mad isn’t just about having a cleaner home. It’s about doing something with the anger instead of letting it eat me up. Plus, nothing feels better than slamming a cabinet shut knowing the junk drawer inside is finally organized.

So next time you’re mad, don’t doom-scroll or fire off that text. Grab a rag and turn that rage into sparkle.

Notes I’d Leave Around the House if I Were a Ghost

Posted on July 18, 2025July 21, 2025 by gigis ramblings

If I ever find myself stuck between this world and the next—haunting the halls of my old house like some leftover casserole nobody wants—I won’t be doing the usual ghost stuff. Nope. No chains rattling, no cold spots, no whispering your name from the closet.

I’d be leaving notes.

Creepy, confusing, sometimes helpful notes. Because even in the afterlife, I’d still be a little passive-aggressive and a lot sarcastic. And believe me, my Southern spirit would have plenty to say.

“Microwave’s Not a Crime Scene, Clean It”

Let’s start with the kitchen. If I’m watching you reheat pizza for the third time this week and still not wiping the damn microwave down, you’re getting a note. Probably written in ketchup if I’m feeling theatrical.

Sticky note on the microwave:
“Your ancestors did not survive plagues and famine for you to leave spaghetti splatter on this appliance. Clean it.”

“You Left the Dryer Door Open Again. What Are We—Animals?”

Laundry rooms are underrated haunting spots. So much energy, so much neglect. If you keep forgetting your wet laundry for days at a time, I’m absolutely haunting you with mildew smell and a blunt reminder.

Taped to the wall above the dryer:
“The mold thanks you. And so does the colony of socks you’re singlehandedly growing behind the machine.”

“Don’t Look Under the Bed. I Mean It.”

Now I wouldn’t be a good ghost if I didn’t mess with you just a little. This one’s simple: write it on an index card, slide it halfway out from under the bed.

The note says:
“If you’re reading this, it’s already too late. (Just kidding. Probably.)”

Cue the paranoia. You’ll be sleeping with the lights on for a week.

“This House Ain’t Big Enough for Two Alpha Females”

Let’s say someone new moves in and tries to rearrange my cabinets. No ma’am. You think just ‘cause I’m dead I’m gonna let you put the cereal above the fridge? Think again.

Note inside the cabinet:
“This is not how I labeled these in 1989, and I will rearrange them every night until you learn.”

Bonus points if she starts blaming the kids.

“Did You Hear That? Neither Did I. That’s the Point.”

Oh, now we’re getting spooky. A well-placed note in the bathroom, when the mirror is just a little fogged up, that’s prime ghost territory. Leave it on the edge of the sink.

Note reads:
“You’ll only hear the sound once. But it’s not random. It’s a countdown.”

You’ll have folks questioning every creak and pipe pop for months.

“You Forgot to Lock the Back Door Again…”

Sometimes, being a ghost means you’ve got to look out for the living. Especially down here, where folks will leave the back door wide open like we ain’t got serial killers and raccoons both trying to get in.

Post-it by the back door:
“Lock it. Or I’ll start whispering your full name at 3:07 AM until you do.”

Now that is discipline from beyond the grave.

“That’s Not Where the Remote Goes.”

Last but not least, the living room. The heart of the home—and the easiest place to drive someone nuts.

Note on the coffee table:
“I know you had the remote last. Put it back before I start hiding it in the fridge.”

Just a lil ghostly mischief to keep things spicy.

Haunting With a Personal Touch

If I were a ghost, you best believe I’d make the afterlife entertaining—for both of us. I wouldn’t need no Ouija board to communicate. Just some sticky notes, a Sharpie, and that timeless Southern flair for keeping folks in line with a smile and a threat.

And hey, if you start finding weird little notes in your house… it might be me. Especially if they’re written in cursive and smell faintly of sunflowers.

Perimenopause Is Kicking My Ass: A Survival Story 11 Years in the Making

Posted on July 17, 2025July 20, 2025 by gigis ramblings

Image by Kenny Holmes from Pixabay

When It All Started

If you had told me back in 2014 that I’d still be riding the perimenopause rollercoaster in 2025, I would’ve laughed in your face. Then again, maybe I wouldn’t—because I’d be too busy squinting through an ocular migraine, bloated like I swallowed a watermelon, and Googling “what does a stroke feel like?” at 2:30 a.m.

I hit puberty early, had kids early, and pretty much ran my reproductive system like a demolition derby. So yeah, maybe it makes sense that the “change” kicked in sooner than average. But 11 years? That ain’t a change—that’s a damn lifestyle.

The First Symptom: What the Hell Was That?

My periods were once like a Swiss watch—every 28 days, no fuss, no drama. I naïvely assumed menopause would be the same. Spoiler alert: it is not.

My first warning sign? An ocular migraine. I wasn’t even a headache person, so when I suddenly started seeing through what looked like a vibrating Coke bottle, I panicked. I thought I was having a stroke. That led to my first of many ER visits, CT scans, and puzzled doctors who all patted my head and told me I was “fine.” Except I wasn’t.

Heart Racing, Bloating, and Full-On Night Terrors

Not long after the migraines, I started waking up around 2-3 a.m. with my heart racing like I was being chased by something invisible and terrifying. My stomach would swell up like I was nine months pregnant, and the acid reflux would hit like a freight train. The cycle always ended the same: me freezing cold, shaky, and sure I was dying.

Turns out, these were nocturnal panic attacks—but they weren’t just “in my head.” I later learned the connection between gut issues and the vagus nerve. When my bloated stomach compressed that nerve, it triggered heart palpitations and panic. Vicious cycle, right?

These episodes led to countless EKGs, a panic disorder diagnosis, and one incredibly unhelpful doctor who refused to believe hormones were the root cause. I bought a KardiaMobile (a portable EKG), taught myself how to read it, and started using Calm magnesium powder and beta blockers at night. That combo has helped a ton—but those episodes? Still scary as hell.

Overachiever Hormones: Because Normal Would Be Too Easy

Most women my age with thyroid issues develop hypothyroidism. Not me. I went full throttle with hyperthyroidism. Racing heart? Check. Sky-high anxiety? Check. It took a kind-hearted ER doc following a hunch to even catch it.

A couple years in, things got real weird. I had a full year of bizarre neurological symptoms—brief waves of heat through my tongue, weird little patches of chill bumps (always near my right knee), and eye floaters that looked like black worms swimming across my vision. Then came the daily headaches. Three months straight of head pain and a doctor who thought 800mg of Advil every six hours was a sustainable plan.

That little plan destroyed my gut, left scar tissue on my liver, and killed my gallbladder. My food started going through me undigested—yes, as gross as it sounds—and I was sick for two full years while everyone shrugged.

The Gallbladder Saga

My gallbladder wasn’t your typical lazy slacker. Oh no, mine was hyperkinetic—constantly dumping bile, whether it was needed or not. My white blood cells were sky high, my face was flushed, and I was running out of energy and patience. It took forever to get a diagnosis, and even then, most surgeons in my area wouldn’t touch it.

Thanks to the internet and some life-saving Facebook groups, I figured out how to manage it myself with TUDCA, ox bile, and digestive enzymes. If I skip my enzymes for a couple days, I feel it immediately. But with them? I can function like a semi-normal human.

Weight Gain, Anemia, and the Ice Cravings from Hell

I gained weight—some from the hormonal chaos, some from steroid treatments, and all of it against my will. Then the heavy periods started turning into hemorrhages, and I became severely anemic. I ended up needing iron transfusions. Anemia brought its own party favors: hair loss, constant dizziness, and an uncontrollable craving for ice. Like, I go through two 10-pound bags of Sonic ice every single week.

Normal Symptoms? Yep, Got Those Too

Joint pain? Sure, but I knocked that out with collagen peptides. Mood swings? You bet. Brain fog? Constantly walking into rooms and forgetting why. Random body aches, brittle nails, dry skin, hormonal acne, sleepless nights—you name it, I’ve probably had it.

Hot flashes, though? Strangely, I’ve never had one. That’s one thing I hope stays off my perimenopause bingo card.

Why Don’t Women Talk About This?

I spent years thinking I was losing my mind. My doctor dismissed me. My symptoms didn’t fit the neat little boxes. I joined several perimenopause Facebook groups, and finally—finally—I stopped feeling so alone. Turns out, millions of us are silently suffering because nobody wants to talk about the reality of perimenopause.

So now, I talk about it. I make sure my daughters know exactly what this phase of life can look like. I even keep a spreadsheet to track my cycles, symptoms, supplements, and mood swings. You know, like a hormonal war journal.

Will It Ever End?

The average woman spends 4–5 years in perimenopause. Some are lucky with just a year or two. And then there’s me—year 11, holding strong, breaking records, and earning gold stars in reproductive overachievement.

Maybe one day I’ll write a book about this whole chaotic journey—assuming I survive it. But for now, I’ll keep managing my symptoms, advocating for myself, and sharing my story so other women don’t feel as lost as I did.

Because if perimenopause is going to kick my ass, the least I can do is drag it into the light and give it a name.

What It Means to Be Okay with Stillness

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

Image by Kirill Averianov from Pixabay

In a world that praises hustle and constant movement, stillness can feel like laziness or wasted time. But being okay with stillness isn’t about giving up—it’s about learning how to be present without needing to fill every moment.

Let’s talk about why stillness matters, what it really means, and how you can start to feel comfortable with it.

Stillness Isn’t Emptiness

Stillness isn’t the absence of productivity. It’s not doing nothing—it’s allowing your mind and body a chance to just be. That could look like sitting on the porch watching the wind blow, or lying in bed without reaching for your phone.

It’s in these quiet moments that we often hear the thoughts we’ve been drowning out. Stillness gives space for clarity, reflection, and even creativity.

Why We Resist Stillness

Many of us were raised to believe that doing more is always better. So when we sit still, we start to feel guilty. Our brains whisper things like:

“You should be doing something.”
“This is lazy.”
“You’re falling behind.”

But none of those things are true. They’re just the noise of a world that equates worth with busyness.

How to Start Embracing Stillness

Learning to be okay with stillness takes time. It’s a skill, just like anything else. Here’s how to ease into it:

Start Small

You don’t have to sit in silence for hours. Try taking five minutes a day to pause—no screens, no music, no multitasking. Just breathe.

Redefine Productivity

Stillness can be productive in its own way. It’s where you recover, recharge, and reconnect with yourself.

Pay Attention to What Shows Up

When you sit still, you might feel discomfort at first. Let it come. Notice it without judgment. The more you practice, the easier it gets.

The Quiet Moments Hold Power

Stillness doesn’t mean you’ve stopped growing. In fact, growth often begins in the quiet. It’s in the pause that we find strength, balance, and sometimes even answers we’ve been chasing for too long.

Being okay with stillness means giving yourself permission to rest, to listen, and to just be. Not because you earned it—but because you deserve it.

How I Know Someone Is My Kind of Person

Posted on July 14, 2025July 15, 2025 by gigis ramblings

Image by Olya Adamovich from Pixabay

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

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

They Laugh at the Same Ridiculous Stuff

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

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

They’re Not Scared of a Little Real Talk

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

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

They Love Food Like I Do

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

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

They’re Loyal Without Even Trying

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

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

They’re Just the Right Amount of Weird

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

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

They Show Up in the Little Ways

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

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

They Let Me Be Me

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

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

Final Thoughts

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

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

Let’s Travel to Cleveland, Ohio

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

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

Interesting Facts

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

Useful Information

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

What to Do

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

Lisa Crow contributed to this article. She is a true crime junkie and lifestyle blogger based in Waco, Texas. Lisa is the Head of Content at Gigi’s Ramblings and Southern Bred True Crime Junkie. She spends her free time traveling when she can and making memories with her large family which consists of six children and fifteen grandchildren. This is the next installment in the Let’s Travel to…series, a collection of short informational articles covering some of the world’s top travel destinations.