Tag: fall

Closing Out September With Gratitude

Posted on by gigis ramblings
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.

Southern Folklore About Early Fall

Posted on by gigis ramblings
porch decorate dfor fall

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When September rolls in and the heat starts to break—well, sometimes—it feels like something’s shifting in the South. The cicadas grow quieter, the air smells of cut hay, and front porches get dressed with pumpkins and mums. But beyond the decorations and cooler mornings, early fall in the South has always carried a touch of mystery. Generations have passed down stories, signs, and superstitions that tie this season to both the land and the spirit world.

Signs Nature Gives

Southerners long relied on the natural world to predict what was ahead. If the goldenrod bloomed heavy, it meant frost was on its way. A big acorn drop warned of a rough winter coming. Blackbirds crowding power lines meant a chill wasn’t far off. Even the insects had something to say—crickets chirping fast at night promised more warm days, while sudden silence in the woods was taken as a bad omen.

Spirits Stirring in the Season

As the nights grew longer, folks whispered that the line between the living and the dead blurred. Families told tales of ghostly women wandering backroads, phantom lanterns luring travelers into swamps, and restless soldiers marching under the harvest moon. These stories weren’t just for scaring children—they were warnings to respect the season’s power.

Haunted Legends of the South

Early fall is the perfect time for old Southern ghost stories to resurface. In Tennessee, people still whisper about the Bell Witch of Adams, a spirit said to torment the Bell family in the early 1800s. Her laughter, shrieks, and strange voices are still part of local legend every autumn. In Arkansas, the Gurdon Light—a mysterious glowing orb that appears along railroad tracks—has been seen since the 1930s, believed by some to be the lantern of a murdered rail worker. Down in Mississippi, folks talk of Stuckey’s Bridge, where the ghost of an old innkeeper is said to haunt the waters, especially on cool fall nights.

Witches, Charms, and Porch Lore

Witches held a special place in early fall folklore. In Appalachia and the Deep South, people believed witches were at their strongest during the harvest moon. Carved turnips or gourds were set by doors to keep mischief away, a practice that later turned into the jack-o’-lantern tradition. Some even swore leaving a rocking chair empty on a porch at night invited a witch—or worse, a spirit—to make themselves comfortable.

Folklore as Guidance

Though the tales sound spooky, much of the folklore served a purpose. Farmers learned to prepare for winter by watching squirrels, crops, and skies. Families passed ghost stories to remind children not to wander too far after dark. Witches and charms gave people a sense of control when life was unpredictable.

The Story Lives On

Today, we may check weather apps instead of acorns, and porch rockers are more about comfort than superstition. Still, these stories linger. Around bonfires, tailgates, and porches, Southerners keep sharing them, weaving a little mystery into the cooling air. Early fall in the South is more than a season—it’s a reminder that tradition, superstition, and storytelling are as much a part of autumn as falling leaves.

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.

The Science Behind Why We Love Fall So Much

Posted on by gigis ramblings
fall table with leaves and candle

There’s something magical about the crisp air, colorful leaves, and cozy sweaters that makes fall the favorite season for so many people. But beyond pumpkin spice lattes and Halloween decorations, there’s real science behind why this time of year feels so comforting and joyful. From the way our brains process seasonal changes to how the environment affects our mood, let’s explore why autumn holds such a special place in our hearts.

The Power of Seasonal Change

One major reason people love fall is because of novelty. After the long, hot summer, the sudden shift in temperature and scenery gives our brains a fresh perspective. Scientists know that humans are wired to seek out change. When we experience something new—like cooler weather, earlier sunsets, or the first sight of red and orange leaves—our brains release dopamine, the “feel-good” chemical. This natural rush of pleasure makes autumn exciting, even if we’re simply enjoying a walk outside or sipping warm cider.

Fall and Our Senses

Autumn is also a sensory-rich season. The smell of wood smoke, the taste of cinnamon and nutmeg, and the sound of crunchy leaves all create strong connections in our brains. These sensory cues often tie back to memories—family gatherings, school days, or holidays—which strengthen feelings of nostalgia. In fact, studies show that scent is the sense most closely linked to memory. That’s why a whiff of pumpkin spice can instantly transport us to moments of comfort and warmth.

The Science of Cozy

The Danish concept of hygge—a feeling of coziness and contentment—is especially strong in fall. As daylight decreases and temperatures drop, our bodies naturally crave warmth, comfort, and togetherness. Research suggests that cooler weather encourages bonding, as people are more likely to gather indoors, share meals, and create traditions. Add in warm blankets, flickering candles, and comforting food, and it’s no surprise that fall makes us feel safe and happy.

Mood and Light Levels

While shorter days can sometimes lead to seasonal affective disorder (SAD), many people actually thrive during fall. The softer light and golden sunsets are easier on the eyes compared to the harsh brightness of summer. This gentler light quality can reduce stress and promote relaxation. Plus, fall often comes with clearer skies and cooler air, which improves sleep quality—a key factor in overall mood and well-being.

Evolutionary Connections

There’s also an evolutionary reason behind our love for fall. For thousands of years, autumn signaled harvest time, when food was plentiful and communities prepared for winter. Our ancestors associated this season with abundance, security, and celebration. Even today, traditions like Thanksgiving and fall festivals reflect that deep-rooted connection between autumn and survival. This ingrained sense of gratitude and preparation may explain why fall feels so satisfying at a primal level.

A Time for Reflection and Renewal

Psychologists also note that fall feels like a natural “reset button.” With the start of the school year, new routines, and the approach of the holidays, people often see autumn as a time for personal growth and reflection. The falling leaves themselves symbolize change and renewal, reminding us that letting go is part of moving forward. This symbolic fresh start can boost motivation and give us a sense of purpose.

Why Fall Steals Our Hearts

From brain chemistry to cultural traditions, there’s plenty of science behind our deep affection for fall. It’s the perfect blend of novelty, comfort, and connection, all wrapped in cooler air and colorful landscapes. Whether it’s the nostalgia of favorite scents, the coziness of shorter days, or the joy of seasonal rituals, fall touches both our senses and our souls. So the next time you feel that rush of happiness as the leaves change, remember—it’s not just in your head. It’s science.

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.

The First Day of Fall in Texas

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neutral fall collage

The first day of fall has finally arrived, and my excitement is sky-high. Even though the thermometer here in Waco is stuck at 94 degrees, the calendar says it’s autumn. That’s all the permission I need to celebrate my favorite season of the year. Fall always feels like a turning point. It’s the promise of cooler nights, cozy mornings, and a change of pace after the long, hot summer.

Texas Weather Doesn’t Always Cooperate

Living in Texas means learning that the first day of fall doesn’t automatically bring crisp weather. Sometimes September feels more like July, and the air conditioner keeps working overtime. This summer has been milder than usual, so I’m hopeful that cooler days will show up sooner rather than later. The moment we feel that first cool breeze, you can bet the entire state will breathe a sigh of relief.

Why Fall Is So Special

Fall has always been near and dear to my heart. The colors, the scents, and the traditions make it feel like home. I love the way pumpkins begin showing up everywhere, the cozy glow of candles and wax warmers, and the excuse to add a little seasonal magic to every corner of my house. It’s also the season of comfort foods, football games, and evenings that feel just right for gathering with family.

Small Ways to Celebrate Right Now

Even though the Texas heat hasn’t broken, I still find little ways to welcome fall. My wax warmers are already filled with spicy, autumn-inspired scents. Decorations are slowly going up, bringing that cozy touch into the house. Trips to Hobby Lobby and Michael’s tempt me with every pumpkin and leaf display. Sometimes it’s about creating the season inside, even if it hasn’t arrived outside yet.

Looking Ahead to the Season

The beauty of fall is that it always feels worth waiting for. Whether it’s the first real cold front, the sound of leaves crunching underfoot, or the joy of the holidays that follow, this season brings so much to look forward to. I’m ready for porch nights in a sweater, the smell of something baking in the kitchen, and the slower, cozier rhythm that comes with autumn.

Happy first day of fall, from warm and sunny Waco. Here’s hoping the cool air finds its way here soon. Until then, I’ll be celebrating with pumpkins, candles, and plenty of autumn spirit.

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.

Celebrating the First Signs of Fall

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pasture with oak trees in the fall

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The Shift We Wait For

If you live in Texas, you know fall doesn’t just show up with a bang. It tiptoes in slowly, teasing us with a morning that feels a little cooler or an evening that doesn’t cling with heat. After months of sweating through triple digits, that first hint of change feels like a gift straight from heaven.

It’s not like the movies where leaves suddenly change overnight. Here, fall arrives in whispers. A cloudy morning. A softer breeze. Even a little rain that doesn’t instantly sizzle on the pavement. Texans learn to pay attention to the small things, because they’re the first clues that summer is finally backing down.

Small Clues That Mean Big Joy

Football Friday nights are the real kickoff to fall around here. Whether you’re in the stands or catching highlights on TV, the sound of the marching band and the glow of stadium lights just feel different once September rolls in.

Then there’s the grocery store. You know it’s fall when H-E-B and Walmart roll out the pumpkins, hay bales, and mums by the truckload. Never mind that it’s still 95 degrees—you grab one for the porch anyway, because it sets the mood. Bought my first one this weekend, as a matter of fact.

And don’t forget the breeze. After weeks of hot, still air, the first time the wind carries a cool edge, even just for a moment, it feels like a celebration in itself.

Creating Cozy Moments

The truth is, we don’t wait for the calendar or the weather to tell us it’s fall—we create the feeling ourselves. That’s half the fun.

I’ll light a pumpkin or apple-scented candle in the morning just to bring that cozy vibe inside. I’ll simmer a pot of chili or stew even if the AC is cranked down low. A soft blanket on the couch and a good book makes it feel like fall, even when the thermometer outside still says otherwise.

Fall and Halloween decorating is another little joy. A wreath on the door, a few pumpkins by the entryway, and suddenly home feels ready for the season. It doesn’t have to be fancy—it’s just about creating a cozy corner that makes you smile every time you walk by.

Why Fall Feels So Special

Maybe it’s because fall in Texas doesn’t last long that we hold onto it so tightly. The cooler nights, the golden sunsets, the way evenings feel just right for porch sittin’—all of it feels fleeting.

There’s also a sense of togetherness that comes with fall. Families gather for football games, county fairs, and backyard cookouts. The air carries the smell of barbecue and campfires, and conversations stretch out longer under the stars.

And for me, fall always means more reading. There’s something about curling up with a Hallmark-style romance, a good mystery, or even a witchy tale that just feels right this time of year. It’s my way of slowing down and savoring the season before the rush of the holidays takes over.

Celebrating in Our Own Way

At the end of the day, celebrating fall in Texas isn’t about perfect weather or changing leaves—it’s about finding joy in the small signs. It’s about creating cozy spaces, enjoying traditions, and soaking up those moments that remind us life is meant to be savored.

So when that first hint of cool air blows through, you better believe I’ll be the one outside, pumpkin candle lit inside, bowl of chili waiting, ready to celebrate every bit of fall that comes our way.

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.

Leaves Are Falling, Books Are Calling

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Fall books on a coxy blanket

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Fall is finally here, and that means my favorite reading season has arrived. While I love reading all year long, there’s just something about autumn that makes it extra special. The cooler weather, the shorter days, and the cozy nights all create the perfect backdrop to curl up with a good book. For me, Fall through Christmas is my absolute favorite time to get lost in stories, and this year I’m preparing a reading list that’s filled with everything from lighthearted romances to mysteries and witchy adventures.

Why Fall Is Perfect for Reading

There’s nothing better than a chilly evening, a blanket, and a book that pulls you in from the very first page. Fall brings a slower pace compared to the busy summer months, making it easier to carve out quiet time for reading. The cozy atmosphere—pumpkins on the porch, candles flickering, and maybe even a pot of soup simmering—just pairs naturally with books. It’s the season where a story feels more like an escape, whether it’s heartwarming, mysterious, or magical.

My Fall Reading Vibe

When it comes to Fall reading, I don’t stick to just one genre. I like to mix it up depending on my mood. Some days, I want the comfort of a Hallmark-style story full of small-town charm, quirky characters, and happy endings. Other times, I’m craving something with a little mystery, where I can play detective alongside the main character. And of course, no Fall reading list would be complete without a few witchy, magical tales that lean into the spooky season.

This mix keeps things fun and ensures I always have a book that matches the moment. Whether it’s a breezy afternoon or a late night with a storm rolling in, I’ve got the perfect story ready to go.

What’s On My List This Year

I’ve already started pulling together books that fit all my Fall moods, and I’m so excited to dive in. Here are a few at the top of my list:

  • The Cinnamon Spice Inn – A cozy romance that promises plenty of charm, comfort, and seasonal sweetness.
  • The Pumpkin Spice Café – Another small-town romance that feels like wrapping yourself up in a blanket and sipping hot cider.
  • Half Baked Witch – A fun and magical read that’s perfect for October nights when you want a little witchy mischief.
  • A Dash of Disaster – A witchy mystery that blends humor, magic, and just enough suspense to keep the pages turning.

Right now, I’m finishing up Maid for Mayhem, but as soon as I’m done, I’ll be diving headfirst into this stack of Fall reads. These four may or may not take me all the way through Halloween, but that just means I’ll have room to add a few Christmas-themed books into the mix when November rolls around.

Looking Ahead

One of the best parts of creating a seasonal reading list is the anticipation. Just knowing that I have a lineup of cozy, magical, and mysterious books waiting for me makes me excited to carve out reading time each day. Whether I’m curled up on the couch, relaxing in bed, or sneaking in a few pages during the hubby’s drive to work, these stories are sure to keep me entertained all season long.

I can’t wait to share more about which ones end up being my favorites, but for now, I’m just thrilled to have a stack of books ready to go. Fall is here, the reading nook is calling, and I’m more than ready to answer.

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.

September Crockpot Favorites

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september crockpot favorites

September is the perfect time to dust off the crockpot and bring back those cozy, slow-cooked meals. As the days get shorter and cooler, there’s nothing better than having dinner ready and waiting after a long day. Crockpot recipes are ideal for busy families, game days, or simply when you want comforting food without much effort.

Why Crockpot Meals Shine in September

September bridges the gap between summer and fall. While it’s not quite chilly enough for full-on soups and stews, there’s still a craving for warm, hearty dishes. Crockpot meals let you enjoy the flavors of fall without heating up the kitchen. They also save time—toss ingredients in during the morning and enjoy a ready-made dinner come evening.

Crockpot Chili

A classic that never disappoints. Chili is hearty, full of flavor, and perfect for cool September nights. You can customize it with ground beef, turkey, or even make it vegetarian. Toss in beans (if you must), peppers, tomatoes, and spices, then let the crockpot do the rest. Serve with cornbread for the ultimate comfort pairing.

Slow Cooker Pot Roast

Tender pot roast with carrots, potatoes, and onions is a meal that feels like a hug. Cooking it low and slow creates juicy, melt-in-your-mouth beef and rich gravy. This dish is perfect for Sunday dinners or when you want leftovers for sandwiches the next day.

Crockpot Chicken and Rice

This recipe is simple but filling. The chicken cooks until it’s tender, and the rice soaks up all the delicious seasonings. Add in mushrooms, peas, or broccoli for extra flavor. It’s an easy family favorite that doesn’t take much prep time.

BBQ Pulled Pork

September often still has cookout vibes, but the crockpot makes BBQ pulled pork effortless. Toss a pork shoulder in with BBQ sauce, onions, and a little seasoning, and you’ll have tender pulled pork for sandwiches, tacos, or nachos. It’s great for football watch parties or casual dinners.

Crockpot Apple Crisp

Not all crockpot recipes are savory—desserts shine too. Apple crisp made in the slow cooker fills the house with that sweet fall aroma. Apples, cinnamon, and a buttery oat topping make this dish a September staple. Serve it warm with vanilla ice cream for a treat that feels just right for the season.

Final Thoughts

September crockpot recipes are all about warmth, comfort, and convenience. From savory favorites like chili and pot roast to sweet treats like apple crisp, these dishes make the transition from summer to fall delicious and easy. So dust off that slow cooker, and let it bring the cozy flavors of September right to your table.

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.

The Corn Moon: A Witchy Night of Magic and Harvest

Posted on by gigis ramblings
the corn moon

September’s sky has a special kind of mystery. Tonight, the Corn Moon—sometimes called the Reap Moon or Barley Moon—rises bright and full, bathing everything in a silvery glow. As the last full moon before the Fall Equinox, it carries deep meaning for anyone who feels the pull of the seasons, the cycles, and the magic of the harvest.

Why Is It Called the Corn Moon?

Traditionally, this full moon earned its name because it appears during the time when corn, barley, and other crops are ready for gathering. Farmers used the extra light of the moon to work late into the night, bringing in the final harvest before the cooler days of autumn arrived. For centuries, it’s been a marker of both abundance and transition—a perfect reminder that nature’s cycles are never-ending.

The Witchy Energy of the Corn Moon

There’s something undeniably spooky about a bright, glowing moon hanging low in a crisp September sky. The Corn Moon invites us to honor balance: light and dark, work and rest, endings and beginnings. In witchy traditions, this moon is the perfect time to:

  • Release what no longer serves you (like the dying stalks after the corn is gathered).
  • Manifest abundance for the months ahead.
  • Cleanse your space to welcome autumn magic.
  • Connect with ancestors—this moon whispers reminders of the thinning veil.

As the shadows grow longer, the Corn Moon feels like a doorway into the season of mystery. Light a candle, set intentions, and trust that this night holds more power than most.

Simple Rituals for Tonight

If you’re feeling the pull of the Corn Moon, here are a few small rituals you can try:

  • Moon Bathing: Step outside, breathe in the cool night air, and let the glow of the full moon wash over you. Imagine it recharging your energy.
  • Harvest Feast: Cook with corn, apples, squash, or pumpkins—foods tied to the harvest season—and share with loved ones.
  • Candle Magic: Light a gold or orange candle. As the flame burns, write down one thing you’re letting go of, and one thing you’re calling into your life.
  • Divination: Pull a tarot card, toss runes, or simply meditate. Tonight, messages come easier.

The Corn Moon as a Seasonal Turning Point

For me, the Corn Moon feels like the beginning of the spooky season. It’s that whisper in the night that fall is arriving, with its pumpkins, its shadows, and its cozy evenings. If you’ve been waiting to start decorating for Halloween or leaning into that witchy side of yourself, tonight is your sign.

Final Thoughts

The Corn Moon is more than just a pretty sight—it’s a reminder that life moves in cycles. This is a night to honor what’s been harvested in your own life, and to prepare for the darker, more mysterious months ahead. So step outside, breathe deep, and let the Corn Moon’s magic guide you into fall.

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.

10 Things I Want to Do Before October Arrives

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October is near

September always feels like a month of transition. The summer heat is still lingering, but fall is just around the corner with pumpkins, cozy nights, and all the autumn vibes. For me, September isn’t just about waiting for October—it’s about making the most of every day before it sneaks up. Here are 10 things I want to check off my list before October arrives.

1. Take Our Vacation to South Padre Island

The very first thing at the top of my list? Our vacation. We’re heading to South Padre Island this weekend, and I can’t wait. There’s something about salty air, sandy toes, and sunsets over the Gulf that makes life feel a little lighter. Vacations are like a reset button, and this one is long overdue.

2. Finish Up Summer Reads

I’ve been stacking up books all summer, but haven’t finished them yet. Before fall officially takes over with cozy mysteries and darker reads, I want to close out my summer list. There’s just something satisfying about starting October with a fresh book stack.

3. Declutter and Clean the House

Call it “fall cleaning” if you want, but September feels like the right time to purge the closets, organize drawers, and give the house a refresh. A clean home makes the arrival of fall—and Halloween—a whole lot cozier.

4. Try a New Fall Recipe

Before the month is over, I want to get into the kitchen and test out a recipe that screams autumn—maybe pumpkin bread, apple cider donuts, or even a savory soup. It’s the perfect way to ease into fall flavors.

5. Take a Long Evening Walk

The weather in September finally starts to cool off (a little). Evening walks are one of my favorite ways to soak in the last of summer and welcome fall. It’s also a good way to reset the mind after long workdays.

6. Decorate for Halloween

Forget pumpkins and harvest vibes—those can wait until November 1st. September is my time to start planning and pulling out the spooky décor. Skeletons, bats, witches, and maybe a few cobwebs (the fake kind, not the ones I’ve ignored all summer). I love when the house takes on that playful, haunted energy.

7. Spend a Weekend Offline

With vacations, work, and everything in between, it’s easy to stay glued to screens. But I want to dedicate one weekend before October to going offline—no scrolling, no constant checking, just being present.

8. Plan a Cozy Movie Night

A movie marathon with blankets, popcorn, and maybe some cider is definitely on my September list. I want to sneak in a mix of summer classics and early fall favorites before Halloween movies take over.

9. Take More Photos

Life moves fast, and September is one of those months where everything changes quickly—the light, the weather, the mood. I want to capture more of these little everyday moments before the month slips away.

10. Reflect and Set Intentions for Fall

Before October officially arrives, I want to sit down and reflect on the past few months and set some intentions for the rest of the year. Fall always feels like a second new year, and taking a little time to refocus is a must.

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.

Why September Feels Like a Second New Year

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Hello sept

Life has a funny way of giving us moments that feel like fresh starts, even when the calendar doesn’t officially say it’s time. For many people, September feels like a second New Year. The air shifts, routines change, and there’s this quiet energy that whispers, “ok, it’s time to start again.” But why does this month feel like a reset button? Let’s break it down.

The Back-to-School Energy

Even if you’re long past school days, the rhythm of September still carries that back-to-school vibe. Stores fill up with notebooks and planners, families are shopping for supplies, and the structure of fall schedules kicks in. It’s hard not to feel the pull of that energy. This is when parents, kids, and even folks without children get swept up in the feeling of routine returning. That structure often inspires us to create fresh goals, set new habits, or finally tackle projects we’ve been putting off.

The Seasonal Shift

After months of summer heat, September brings the first hints of fall. Cooler mornings, earlier sunsets, and the smell of change in the air remind us that the year is moving forward. Nature signals a new season, and that naturally makes us reflect on where we are in our lives. Just like January, September nudges us to take inventory: Are we on track with our goals? Do we need to reset, recharge, or adjust our direction? It’s a natural checkpoint that feels like starting fresh.

A Cultural Reset

Think about it: schools, sports seasons, church groups, and even work schedules often shift in September. Football games kick off, holiday planning begins, and calendars start filling up with community events. The summer “pause” is over, and suddenly everything feels alive with activity again. That cultural reset encourages us to step into new rhythms, almost like society collectively pushes us to get moving and refocus.

The Motivation Factor

January resolutions are often about big dreams, but September motivation feels more grounded. Instead of chasing wild resolutions, we’re usually setting realistic goals: organizing the house, improving wellness routines, preparing for the holidays, or finishing strong at work. Because the year only has four months left, there’s a built-in urgency to make progress. That ticking clock pushes us to prioritize and take action before another year slips away.

Practical Ways to Embrace September as a Fresh Start

If September feels like a second New Year, why not use that energy to your advantage? Here are a few ways:

  • Revisit the goals you set back in January and adjust what no longer fits.
  • Create a new daily routine that matches the fall season—whether that’s earlier mornings, meal planning, or evening walks.
  • Declutter your home or workspace to make room for fresh ideas.
  • Start something small but meaningful, like journaling, exercising, or learning a new skill.

These small actions can make a big difference in setting the tone for the last part of the year.

Closing Thoughts

September has a way of reminding us that it’s never too late to begin again. It may not come with fireworks or champagne toasts, but it carries its own quiet power. Whether it’s the school routines, the crisp air, or the push to finish the year strong, this month truly feels like a second New Year. Embrace the momentum, set fresh intentions, and carry that renewed energy into the months 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.