corn maze at fall festival

Every fall, the rustle of dry stalks fills the air, and families wander into golden fields that seem alive with secrets. Corn mazes may look like a simple autumn attraction, but their roots reach deep—into ancient myth, ritual, and the timeless rhythm of harvest and renewal.

From Ancient Labyrinths to Cornfields

Long before farmers carved paths through their crops, ancient people were already walking sacred labyrinths. The famous Labyrinth of Crete told the story of courage and transformation—a hero’s journey through twists of shadow and light. Later, in medieval Europe, church labyrinths symbolized the soul’s path toward enlightenment.

When corn became the heart of the American harvest, it didn’t take long for that old idea to take root in new soil. The first modern corn maze appeared in Pennsylvania in 1993, crafted by Don Frantz and Adrian Fisher. It was meant to celebrate the season’s abundance—and it did, sparking a fall tradition that spread like wildfire across the countryside.

The Symbolism Behind the Maze

Mazes have always represented journeys, both physical and spiritual. Step into a corn maze, and you step into something older than you might think.

🌾 A Journey of Life: Every twist and turn mirrors the choices we make and the patience it takes to find our way.
🌽 Abundance and Gratitude: Corn, sacred in many Native traditions, symbolizes nourishment, renewal, and the bond between people and the earth.
🌙 Mystery and Transformation: The maze invites us to lose ourselves—just enough—to emerge changed on the other side.

In a way, walking through a corn maze is a quiet act of faith. You trust there’s an exit, even when you can’t see it. You keep going, guided by instinct, laughter, or maybe a little moonlight.

Modern Mazes: Art, Harvest & Heart

Today’s corn mazes are more than a weekend attraction. They’re living art—crafted with GPS precision but rooted in old-fashioned joy. Each design tells a story, whether it’s a local legend, a spooky scene, or a tribute to farm life.

These mazes bring people together in the most down-to-earth way: under open skies, surrounded by the scent of hay, and reminded that harvest isn’t just about crops—it’s about community, creativity, and connection.

Getting Lost to Find Yourself

Every autumn, when you wander between the whispering rows, remember that you’re walking an ancient path in modern boots. Corn mazes remind us that getting lost can be part of finding what matters most.

So take your time. Breathe in that cool, sweet air. And if you listen closely, you might just hear the old stories rustling in the stalks. 🌾✨

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.

candy apple on a platter with a razor blade

Every Halloween, parents warn their kids to check their candy before eating it. The legend of razor blades hidden in treats has become one of the most widespread fears of the season. But where did this chilling rumor come from—and is there any truth to it?

How the Razor Blade Scare Began

The panic dates back to the 1960s and 1970s, when stories began circulating in newspapers about people finding sharp objects in Halloween candy. One of the earliest reports appeared in 1968, warning parents to inspect treats for hidden dangers. Soon, the story of “razor blades in apples” spread like wildfire through neighborhoods across America.

The idea of a stranger intentionally harming children played into real fears of the time. Urban life was changing, and people no longer knew their neighbors as well as before. Halloween, with its door-to-door nature, became the perfect setting for those anxieties to surface.

What the Evidence Really Shows

Despite decades of worry, there’s very little proof that anyone has actually been injured by tampered Halloween candy. Sociologists like Joel Best, who studied every reported case since the 1950s, found almost no verified incidents of strangers intentionally inserting razors or needles into candy to harm children. Most cases were either pranks, misunderstandings, or even hoaxes created by kids or parents seeking attention.

In rare instances where sharp objects were found, they were typically traced back to people the victims already knew—not random strangers. Yet the fear persisted, reinforced by sensational news coverage and word-of-mouth.

Related: The Origins of Trick-or-Treating (It’s Older Than You Think)

Why the Urban Legend Won’t Die

The story of razor blades in candy taps into a powerful cultural fear: the danger of the unknown. It reminds us how easily fear can spread when it involves children and something as innocent as candy. Over time, this myth has become part of the Halloween tradition itself, passed down like ghost stories around a campfire.

Even today, police departments often issue warnings each October to inspect candy “just in case.” And while modern trick-or-treaters are safer than ever, the myth continues to live on in our collective imagination.

The Takeaway for Parents

While the razor blade scare may not be based on real threats, it’s still smart to keep safety in mind. Stick to sealed, store-bought treats, inspect anything that looks suspicious, and remind kids not to eat anything until they get home. Most of all, remember that Halloween is meant to be fun—not frightening.

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.

pumpkin pie, latte, spice and pumpkins

When the first crisp breeze of autumn rolls in, one thing dominates every store shelf, coffee shop, and social feed — pumpkins. From lattes to candles to front porch décor, it’s clear the pumpkin has become the unofficial mascot of fall. But how did this orange squash steal the season from apples — the original fall favorite?

A Slice of Autumn History

Before the pumpkin craze, apples reigned supreme. Apple orchards, cider presses, and pie-baking traditions defined the harvest season for generations. But while apples had a long history, pumpkins had something more powerful waiting in the wings: iconic American symbolism.

Pumpkins have deep roots in Native American agriculture, used for food, storage, and even decoration. When early colonists arrived, they quickly adopted the pumpkin for its versatility — it could be roasted, mashed, or baked into pies that graced early Thanksgiving tables. By the 1800s, the pumpkin wasn’t just food — it was a symbol of the American harvest spirit.

The Power of Pumpkin Pie and Nostalgia

No fall food has more emotional pull than pumpkin pie. It’s tied to Thanksgiving — a holiday built on gratitude, family, and tradition. Over time, that connection anchored pumpkins as the flavor of nostalgia.

When brands realized how powerful that emotional tie was, they bottled it up — literally. From pumpkin spice candles to the now-famous Pumpkin Spice Latte, it became more than a flavor — it was a feeling.

Pumpkin spice screams cozy sweaters, bonfires, and falling leaves. Apples? They just couldn’t compete with that level of seasonal mood.

Marketing Magic and the Pumpkin Takeover

The real turning point came in the early 2000s when Starbucks launched the Pumpkin Spice Latte (PSL). What started as a seasonal drink quickly became a cultural phenomenon, sparking an avalanche of pumpkin-flavored everything: muffins, cereal, beer, body lotion — you name it.

Once social media picked it up, pumpkins became the visual symbol of fall. Their warm orange color photographed beautifully, fitting perfectly into the autumn aesthetic. Before long, brands and influencers alike pushed pumpkins front and center while apples faded quietly into the background.

The Apple’s Quiet Comeback

Apples still have their loyal fans — think fresh cider, caramel apples, and orchard trips — but their image leans more rustic than trendy. Pumpkins, meanwhile, represent modern fall culture — cozy yet chic, nostalgic yet marketable.

Still, there’s a subtle shift happening. More people are revisiting apple picking and heritage cider-making, bringing apples back into the fall spotlight, even if pumpkins still dominate the stage.

Why Pumpkins Will Always Win Fall

At the end of the day, pumpkins won because they’re versatile, symbolic, and emotional. They tie together harvest tradition, American history, and sensory nostalgia — all wrapped up in one perfectly Instagrammable package.

So next time you sip that pumpkin spice latte or light your favorite pumpkin candle, remember — you’re not just celebrating a trend. You’re part of a story that’s been centuries in the making.

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.

old creepy hotel

If you’ve ever dreamed of sleeping where spirits supposedly roam, October’s the perfect time to book a haunted getaway. From grand Southern mansions to creaky mountain lodges, these eerie destinations promise history, charm, and maybe a few bumps in the night. Whether you believe in ghosts or not, these hotels are worth a stay for the atmosphere alone.

The Stanley Hotel – Estes Park, Colorado

You can’t talk haunted hotels without mentioning The Stanley Hotel, the inspiration behind Stephen King’s The Shining. Guests have reported everything from piano music playing by unseen hands to ghostly laughter echoing through the halls. Room 217 is the most famous — it’s said the ghost of a former housekeeper still tidies up for guests. Even if you don’t encounter a spirit, the mountain views and vintage charm make it worth the trip.

The Crescent Hotel – Eureka Springs, Arkansas

Tucked deep in the Ozarks, The Crescent Hotel calls itself “America’s Most Haunted Hotel” — and for good reason. Once a luxury spa, then a makeshift hospital run by a con artist “doctor,” its walls hold dark secrets. Guests report ghostly nurses pushing gurneys and mysterious cold spots in Room 218. But don’t let the hauntings scare you off — the hotel’s wraparound porches, on-site spa, and Victorian architecture are simply stunning.

Hotel Monteleone – New Orleans, Louisiana

In the heart of the French Quarter sits Hotel Monteleone, a New Orleans legend known for its ghostly charm and revolving Carousel Bar. Many guests claim to see the spirit of a young boy who died in the building, wandering the 14th floor looking for his parents. Even William Faulkner and Truman Capote were regulars here, and it’s easy to see why — this place oozes history, mystery, and Southern elegance.

The Menger Hotel – San Antonio, Texas

Texans know The Menger Hotel as one of the most haunted places in the state. Just steps from the Alamo, it’s said to be home to over 30 resident spirits — including the ghost of Teddy Roosevelt himself, who once recruited his Rough Riders here. The hotel’s mahogany bar, marble floors, and Victorian charm make it one of the most beautiful spots in downtown San Antonio. Even if you don’t see a ghost, you’ll feel the history in every creak of the floorboards.

The Marshall House – Savannah, Georgia

Savannah is no stranger to ghosts, and The Marshall House sits right in the middle of it all. During the Civil War, it served as a Union hospital — and guests have reported hearing footsteps, children’s laughter, and even catching glimpses of soldiers wandering the hallways. Despite the hauntings, the hotel offers warm Southern hospitality, clawfoot tubs, and a location that’s walking distance from River Street.

The Queen Mary – Long Beach, California

If you’re looking for a haunting on the water, book a stay aboard The Queen Mary, a retired ocean liner turned hotel. Once a World War II troop ship, it’s now known for its ghostly activity — especially in the engine room and the first-class pool. Paranormal investigators have recorded voices, shadows, and sudden temperature drops. Even if you don’t spot a ghost, the Art Deco design and ocean views make it one unforgettable experience.

The Myrtles Plantation – St. Francisville, Louisiana

For a true Southern ghost story, head to The Myrtles Plantation, often called one of the most haunted homes in America. Legend says at least a dozen spirits linger here, including a slave named Chloe and the children she accidentally poisoned. The creaking floors, ancient oaks, and candlelit dinners create an eerie yet beautiful atmosphere that’ll give you goosebumps in the best way.

Hotel Provincial – New Orleans, Louisiana

Another French Quarter favorite, Hotel Provincial combines old-world charm with a touch of the supernatural. It once served as a hospital, and some guests claim to see soldiers and nurses roaming the halls. Despite its ghostly reputation, it’s one of the coziest and most romantic stays in New Orleans — making it the perfect spot for couples who love a little mystery.

Why Stay in a Haunted Hotel?

Haunted hotels aren’t just about ghost stories — they’re about history. Each of these places has seen joy, heartbreak, laughter, and loss. Staying overnight lets you step into the past, soaking up stories that still linger in the air. Whether you leave with a ghost photo or just great memories, these hotels offer an experience you won’t find at any chain resort.

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.

southern gothic cemetery

Why Southern Cemeteries Are Special

Old cemeteries in the South are more than resting places — they are living pieces of history. Moss-draped oak trees, wrought-iron fences, and weathered headstones tell stories of generations past. Walking these grounds, you feel a quiet connection to the people who shaped the region. The beauty, the artistry of the monuments, and the stories behind the names make these spaces unique and hauntingly serene.

Famous Cemeteries to Visit

Bonaventure Cemetery, Savannah, GA – Known for its sweeping oaks and elegant statues, Bonaventure captures the romantic, almost mystical charm of the South. It’s a photographer’s dream and a historian’s treasure.

St. Louis Cemetery No. 1, New Orleans, LA – This cemetery’s above-ground tombs reflect the city’s Creole and Catholic traditions. Visitors are drawn to its rich history and the stories of famous residents like Voodoo Queen Marie Laveau.

Hollywood Cemetery, Richmond, VA – Set on rolling hills overlooking the James River, Hollywood Cemetery is known for its Confederate graves and striking views. Every path reveals history and artistry, making it both solemn and inspiring.

Oakland Cemetery, Atlanta, GA – Victorian-era sculptures and historic graves combine with lush landscapes, telling the stories of Atlanta’s founders and early residents. Its mix of art, history, and nature makes it a must-visit.

Texas Gems

Glenwood Cemetery, Houston – Founded in 1871, Glenwood Cemetery honors generations of Houstonians. The serene pathways, impressive monuments, and grand oaks make it a place to reflect on both local history and personal heritage.

Oakwood Cemetery, Austin – Established in 1839, Oakwood is the oldest cemetery in Austin. Wander among historic gravestones of early pioneers and political leaders while soaking in the story of Austin’s early days. We also have an Oakwood Cemetery here in Waco that has that Southern Gothic style and dates back to the Civil War. I recommend checking it out if you are in my neck of the woods.

Visiting Tips

Visiting a cemetery isn’t just about seeing graves. It’s about connecting with history, appreciating artistry, and enjoying quiet moments in beautiful spaces. Walk slowly, respect the grounds, and take time to read the inscriptions — every stone has a story. Bring a camera for the scenery and keep your curiosity alive for hidden details and subtle artistry.

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.

combination of dia los muertos vs halloween

Every fall, sugar skulls and skeletons fill store shelves alongside pumpkins and ghosts, leading many to wonder — aren’t Day of the Dead and Halloween basically the same thing? While both honor spirits and take place around the same time, their meanings, roots, and celebrations couldn’t be more different.

🎃 Halloween: Fear, Fun, and Frights

Halloween traces its origins to the ancient Celtic festival of Samhain, celebrated in Ireland and Scotland over 2,000 years ago. Samhain marked the end of the harvest season and the beginning of winter — a time when the Celts believed the veil between the living and the dead was at its thinnest.

When Christianity spread through Europe, the holiday merged with All Hallows’ Eve, the night before All Saints’ Day. Over centuries, it evolved into the modern Halloween we know today — a mix of costumes, candy, haunted houses, and spooky fun.

At its heart, Halloween celebrates the thrill of fear. We dress up as monsters to play with darkness, to laugh at what scares us, and to enjoy a night of tricks and treats.

💀 Day of the Dead: Love, Memory, and Connection

Día de los Muertos (Day of the Dead), celebrated on November 1st and 2nd, is a deeply spiritual Mexican tradition that blends Indigenous Aztec beliefs with Catholic influences brought by Spanish colonizers.

Instead of fearing death, Día de los Muertos celebrates life and memory. Families build ofrendas (altars) decorated with marigolds, candles, sugar skulls, photos, and favorite foods to welcome back the souls of their loved ones for one night of reunion.

It’s not about horror — it’s about honor. The laughter, colors, and music reflect joy for those who lived, reminding us that death is just another part of the cycle of life.

🕯️ The Key Differences

AspectHalloweenDay of the Dead
OriginCeltic (Samhain)Indigenous Mexican (Aztec) + Catholic
DateOctober 31November 1–2
FocusFear, fun, and the supernaturalLove, remembrance, and family
SymbolsPumpkins, ghosts, bats, witchesMarigolds, skulls, candles, photos
ToneSpooky and playfulJoyful and reflective

🌸 Where the Two Connect

Even though they come from different worlds, both holidays honor the dead and the mystery of the afterlife. Each reminds us that the boundary between the living and the spirit world grows thin this time of year.

Today, you’ll often see the two blend in decorations and pop culture — skeletons with sugar skull makeup at Halloween parties or calaveras alongside jack-o’-lanterns. While it’s easy to mix them up, understanding their roots helps keep each one respected and celebrated for what it truly represents.

🌕 Final Reflections

Halloween gives us a night of imagination and fun — a way to face our fears. Día de los Muertos gives us comfort — a way to keep the memories of our loved ones alive.

Both, in their own way, teach us not to fear death, but to understand it, embrace it, and even celebrate the eternal connection between life and what lies beyond.

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.

witch flying across a spooky sky in front of a full moon

When you picture a witch, chances are she’s flying across the moonlight sky on a broomstick — a classic image that’s become one of Halloween’s most iconic symbols. But where did this mysterious connection between witches and brooms even come from? The story goes much deeper than spooky folklore.

The Origins of the Witches’ Broom

Long before it became part of witchcraft imagery, the broom — or besom — was simply a household tool. In medieval Europe, most homes had one. Women used them to sweep dirt from their floors and doorways, symbolically cleansing their space of unwanted energy and negativity.

Over time, this act of sweeping took on a spiritual meaning. Folk healers and wise women began to use the broom in rituals for protection and purification. It wasn’t about flying — it was about energy. The broom became a tool to “sweep away” bad luck, evil spirits, or even illness.

Broomsticks, Fertility, and Flying Legends

One of the earliest written links between witches and broomsticks dates back to the 1400s, during a time of intense witch hysteria in Europe. Many of these stories came from superstition, fear, and misunderstanding of folk traditions.

There’s also a curious connection to old fertility rituals. During planting season, people would jump or dance with poles, pitchforks, and sometimes brooms, to encourage the crops to grow tall and strong. Over time, this earthy ritual was twisted into tales of witches “flying” through the air.

As witch trials spread across Europe, the broom became a supposed symbol of a witch’s ability to travel to secret gatherings called Sabbats. Artwork from that era began to show witches riding broomsticks under the moon, cementing the image we know today.

The Besom in Modern Witchcraft

In modern witchcraft and Wiccan traditions, the besom still holds deep symbolic meaning. It’s used to cleanse sacred space before casting a circle, representing both feminine and masculine energies — the broom handle as masculine, and the bristles as feminine. Together, they form balance and harmony.

Many practitioners keep a broom near their doorway to guard against negative energy or hang a small one above a window for protection. Some even craft their own brooms using local woods and herbs, turning them into powerful personal tools of intention.

The Broom as a Symbol of Freedom

Beyond magic and myth, the witches’ broom has also come to represent freedom — especially freedom for women. The image of a woman flying through the sky on her broom challenged centuries of control and restriction. It was a symbol of independence, rebellion, and the power to rise above societal limits.

Today, that same image still resonates. The broom reminds us that magic can be both simple and profound — found in everyday things, and in the strength to create our own path.

Final Thoughts

The history of witches’ brooms is part folklore, part feminism, and part spiritual symbolism. From humble beginnings as a cleaning tool to a symbol of flight and freedom, the broom carries centuries of magic in its bristles.

So the next time you see a witch soar across the Halloween sky, remember — she’s not just flying for fright. She’s carrying the history of women, energy, and empowerment on her broomstick.

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.

scarecrow in field

From Fields to Frights

When you picture fall, a few images instantly pop into mind—pumpkins, crunchy leaves, spooky movies, and scarecrows propped up in front yards. But before they became a Halloween staple, scarecrows had a very practical job: protecting crops. Their journey from humble farm tools to spooky symbols is a fascinating story that weaves together history, folklore, and tradition.

Ancient Beginnings

The first scarecrows weren’t made of straw at all. Ancient Egyptians set up wooden frames along the Nile to guard wheat fields from flocks of hungry quail. In Japan, farmers used kakashi, scarecrow-like figures stuffed with rags and sometimes even lit on fire to scare away animals. Across Europe, straw-stuffed human shapes became a common sight, designed to trick crows and other birds into thinking people were watching the fields.

The idea was simple: create something that looked just human enough to keep pests at bay. But as time went on, these figures began to represent more than just farm protection.

Symbolism and Superstition

By the Middle Ages, scarecrows were tied to folklore and superstition. Farmers often gave them names or even dressed them in old clothes, blurring the line between tool and talisman. In some cultures, scarecrows were seen as protectors not only of crops but also of households, guarding against evil spirits.

Of course, not everyone found them comforting. Their blank faces and lifeless forms sparked unease, feeding ghost stories and superstitions. The scarecrow slowly shifted from a helpful guardian to a symbol of something eerie—something watching when no one was there.

The American Farm Tradition

When European settlers came to America, they brought scarecrow traditions with them. Native American tribes already had their own versions, like using menacing carved figures to protect corn. Over time, the classic American scarecrow took shape: straw-stuffed, floppy-armed, and stationed in cornfields.

As farming methods improved and fewer people relied on scarecrows, their role became more symbolic than practical. By the 19th century, scarecrows were showing up in children’s stories, art, and festivals.

Scarecrows in Pop Culture

The scarecrow’s transformation into a cultural icon accelerated in the 20th century. L. Frank Baum’s Scarecrow of Oz (1900) gave the figure a friendly, lovable twist. But Hollywood and literature also leaned into the darker side: think creepy farm fields in horror movies, or haunting scarecrow legends whispered around campfires.

By the time Halloween decorations became popular in the mid-1900s, scarecrows were ready-made for the holiday. They fit perfectly with the themes of harvest, autumn, and a touch of the macabre.

Why Scarecrows Fit Halloween So Well

So why did scarecrows stick as a Halloween icon? A few reasons stand out:

  • Harvest Connection – Halloween falls at the end of harvest season, and scarecrows are rooted in that agricultural tradition.
  • Uncanny Valley Effect – They look human… but not quite. That eerie “almost alive” feeling makes them naturally creepy.
  • Folklore and Fear – Their history as both protector and potential omen makes them a perfect fit for spooky storytelling.
  • Decorative Appeal – With straw, plaid shirts, and floppy hats, they balance festive fall charm with just the right amount of spook.

From Guardian to Ghoul

Today, scarecrows are everywhere come October. They sit smiling on porches, tower menacingly in haunted corn mazes, and even star in horror films. Their journey is complete—from practical farm tool to enduring Halloween icon.

Next time you see one propped up in a yard or a field, remember: behind that stitched smile lies centuries of history, superstition, and tradition.

Final Thoughts

The scarecrow is more than a decoration. It’s a reminder of our agricultural past, our love of storytelling, and our fascination with the eerie. Whether you see them as friendly fall companions or haunting guardians of the night, one thing is certain: scarecrows aren’t going anywhere.

bedroom decorated in warm fall colors

When the air turns crisp and the days get shorter, nothing feels better than retreating into a warm and inviting bedroom. Fall and winter are perfect seasons to give your space a refresh. With just a few thoughtful updates, you can create a cozy retreat that makes you look forward to bedtime even more.

Start with Layers

The quickest way to bring cozy vibes into your bedroom is by layering. Add extra blankets, a chunky knit throw, or a quilt at the end of the bed. Mix different textures like flannel sheets, velvet pillows, and a faux fur accent. Layers not only add warmth but also create depth and visual comfort.

Warm Up with Lighting

Swap out harsh overhead lighting for softer options. String lights, candles, or a bedside lamp with a warm-toned bulb can instantly change the mood. The right lighting makes your space feel relaxing and welcoming, especially on chilly evenings.

Add Seasonal Scents

Your bedroom should smell just as inviting as it looks. Use wax melts, incense, or reed diffusers with scents like vanilla, amber, cedarwood, or pumpkin spice. These aromas create a calming atmosphere and signal to your senses that it’s time to relax.

Switch Up Bedding

Changing your bedding is one of the easiest seasonal refreshes. Flannel or jersey sheets feel warmer, while rich, deep tones like burgundy, forest green, or mustard yellow add seasonal charm. Don’t forget cozy throw pillows in autumnal colors or plaids.

Bring Nature Indoors

A touch of nature makes any bedroom more inviting. Add dried flowers, a vase of eucalyptus, or small houseplants that thrive in low light. These little details bring freshness and balance to the space.

Focus on Comfort

Cozy season is all about slowing down and feeling comfortable. Add a soft rug by the bed so you aren’t stepping onto cold floors in the morning. Keep slippers handy, and consider a small basket of extra blankets for easy reach.

Personalize the Space

Finally, make sure your bedroom feels like yours. Display a few favorite books, hang a piece of artwork, or frame family photos. Cozy doesn’t just mean warmth—it also means a sense of connection to the things you love.

Refreshing your bedroom for cozy season doesn’t have to be complicated. With a few layers, warm lighting, comforting scents, and personal touches, you can transform it into a space that feels like the ultimate retreat.

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.

Goodbye September theme surrounded in a warm cozy fall aesthetic

Reflecting on the Month

September always feels like a transition month. Summer is wrapping up, school routines are settling in, and fall is slowly making its way in—even if the Texas heat says otherwise. This September had its ups and downs, but looking back, there’s a lot to be thankful for.

Finding Joy in the Everyday

It’s easy to get caught up in stress and schedules. But the little things this month stood out more than the big ones—quiet evenings at home, small wins with work, and even the rare moments when everything felt calm. Gratitude has a way of shifting perspective, and September reminded me of that.

Lessons Learned in September

This month taught me that it’s okay to slow down. Sometimes life doesn’t go exactly as planned, but those pauses often bring the clarity we didn’t realize we needed. September also reminded me of the value of patience and persistence, both in daily routines and long-term goals.

A Cozy List of Gratitude

As fall officially settles in, I can’t help but notice the little joys that come with the season:

  • The first pumpkins on porches and in recipes
  • Friday night football games under the lights
  • Cooler mornings that finally hint at sweater weather
  • Weekend family time filled with comfort food
  • Seasonal reads that feel extra cozy by candlelight

These are the moments that turn ordinary days into treasured memories, and I’m thankful for every one of them.

Looking Ahead to October

October is already shaping up to be special—it’s not just the start of my favorite season, but also the month I celebrate turning 50. A new decade feels like the perfect chance to lean into gratitude even more, to embrace new adventures, and to keep cherishing the little things. Closing out September with a thankful heart feels like the best way to welcome what’s ahead.

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.