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The 4th of July isn’t a holiday I look forward to. Years ago, I lost my grandma on this day. While most people are celebrating, it’s always been a little heavy for me. I smile through it, try to make the best of it, but deep down, I’m always carrying that loss with me. Not to mention, our country is a mess right now.

Our Usual Traditions Took a Hit This Year

Normally, we keep it simple—barbecue, fireworks, and swimming. That’s how we’ve always done it. But today, the rain had other plans. It rolled in and washed everything out. No grill. No swim. No big fireworks show.

We did manage to throw some hot dogs on and watch our neighbors shoot off fireworks from the driveway. It wasn’t what we planned, but we made it work.

A Bob Ross Date Night Saved the Mood

After the fireworks fizzled out, we tried something new—and it might just become a tradition. We pulled up a Bob Ross video and had ourselves a little painting date.

Y’all… we laughed so much. Neither of us had ever done oil painting before, but we followed along, happy little trees and all. And believe it or not, they actually turned out pretty dang good. It was fun, relaxing, and honestly just what we needed after such a gloomy day.

The Heartbreaking News Out of the Hill Country

Even with our small moments of joy, it’s been hard to ignore the heaviness in our state right now. The Texas Hill Country—one of my favorite places in the world—has been hit with catastrophic flooding overnight and into today.

The Guadalupe River rose more than 30 feet in Kerrville. Homes, RVs, and cars have been swept away. People are missing. And what really breaks me… at least 24 dead and 23 girls from Camp Mystic are among those unaccounted for.

It just rips at your heart. I can’t stop thinking about those families. The fear. The waiting. The unknown. This isn’t just another news story—it’s our people. Our state. Our communities.

It Didn’t Feel Like a Day to Celebrate

Between the weather, the memories of my grandma, and the devastation in the Hill Country, today didn’t feel like something to celebrate. It felt like a day to slow down. To reflect. To hold your people a little tighter.

Texas is hurting. And my heart is with every family affected. We’re strong, we’re resilient—but today, we’re grieving.

Finding Comfort in the Small Things

Even though this 4th didn’t go how we planned, I’m grateful for the little moments. A simple meal. Fireworks down the street. Laughter over paintbrushes and Bob Ross wisdom. Sometimes the small things help carry you through the heavy ones.

And maybe that’s worth holding onto.

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.

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Fatherhood isn’t just about biology—it’s about being there. It’s the steady presence, the quiet strength, the lessons passed down through simple moments: tying a shoelace, learning to cast a fishing line, or that first wobble down the sidewalk without training wheels.

Today, we celebrate fathers of all kinds. The ones who show up day in and day out. The stepdads who step in without skipping a beat. The grandfathers who fill in the gaps. The uncles, coaches, big brothers, and mentors who help raise the next generation with patience and love.

Some folks grow up never knowing the kind of father who sticks around—and I carry that truth close, especially knowing half of my own children didn’t get that kind of father figure in their lives. It’s a reminder that having a present, loving father is not something to take for granted.

That’s why I’m forever grateful for the man I got to call Daddy. He taught me how to ride a bike, how to fish, and how to stand on my own. His presence shaped who I became, and I know how rare that gift is.

And now, as I look at my four boys—grown men who’ve stepped into fatherhood with strength and pride—I see that same love being passed on. Each of them makes me proud, not just as their mama, but as a woman who believes deeply in the power of a good father.

Happy Father’s Day to every man out there doing his best. And with all my heart, Happy Father’s Day to my Daddy and to my four boys—thank you for being the kind of men worth celebrating.

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Some folks run from it, others laugh in the face of it—but around here, Friday the 13th just might be in our blood.

My mama is a triplet, and they were born on Friday the 13th in the already spooky month of October. Their 13th birthday also fell on Friday the 13th! Years later, one of my cousins showed up on the same date-same kind of eerie timing. And wouldn’t you know it, two of my grandsons, Isaiah and Eli, were also born on Friday the 13th. At this point, we might as well start a club.

So while some folks hide under the covers or side-eye black cats, I say bring it on. That spooky little square on the calendar has delivered more than its fair share of surprises—some beautiful, some bone-chilling. And across history, Friday the 13th has been blamed (and rightly so) for all sorts of strange, tragic, and downright unbelievable events.

If you’re curious (or brave), here are some of the wildest, weirdest, and most haunting things to ever happen on a Friday the 13th.

The Andes Plane Crash (1972)

One of the most harrowing survival stories in history began on Friday, October 13, 1972. A Uruguayan Air Force plane carrying 45 people, including a rugby team, crashed into the Andes Mountains. Stranded in freezing conditions for over two months, the survivors faced impossible decisions, including resorting to cannibalism to stay alive.

Their story became the basis for the book Alive and several films. The crash and what followed turned a freak accident into a legend—forever tying Friday the 13th to one of the most haunting real-life survival tales ever told.

The Stock Market Mini-Crash (1989)

Wall Street has its share of bad days, but Friday the 13th in October 1989 delivered a doozy. Known as the “Friday the 13th Mini-Crash,” the Dow Jones Industrial Average plunged 6.91% in a single day due to a mix of market rumors and panic selling.

It wasn’t the worst crash in history, but it sent shockwaves through the financial world and fueled the notion that Friday the 13th is bad luck for business, too.

The Buckingham Palace Bombing (1940)

On September 13, 1940—yes, a Friday—the Nazis bombed Buckingham Palace during World War II. King George VI and Queen Elizabeth were in residence when the palace was hit. Miraculously, they were unharmed.

The event was a powerful symbol of British resilience, but to this day, it’s one of the more eerie examples of how Friday the 13th doesn’t care about titles, thrones, or royal blood.

Rapper Tupac Shakur Dies (1996)

Tupac Shakur, one of the most influential rappers of all time, died on Friday, September 13, 1996, six days after being shot in a drive-by in Las Vegas. His death remains one of hip-hop’s greatest tragedies—and mysteries—fueling countless conspiracy theories and dark speculation.

Whether you believe he’s truly gone or sipping cocktails on an island somewhere, his death on Friday the 13th only adds to the legend.

The Costa Concordia Disaster (2012)

On Friday, January 13, 2012, the cruise ship Costa Concordia struck a rock off the coast of Italy and capsized. Over 30 people lost their lives in what became one of the worst cruise ship disasters in modern history.

The captain was later convicted of manslaughter and abandoning ship, which only added to the drama. For those aboard, this wasn’t just a bad day—it was a full-blown maritime nightmare.

The “Friday the 13th Virus” (1989)

No, not the slasher flick—this was a real computer virus. On Friday, October 13, 1989, a virus dubbed “Friday the 13th” or “Jerusalem” wreaked havoc on computers across Europe and the U.S.

It was programmed to delete files on that specific day. Thousands of machines were affected, and it was one of the earliest examples of how even technology isn’t safe from superstition.

Kansas Flooding Disaster (1951)

On Friday, July 13, 1951, the state of Kansas was hit by one of the most devastating floods in U.S. history. Rivers overflowed, towns were submerged, and over 500,000 people were affected.

It caused hundreds of millions of dollars in damage and is still remembered as one of the worst natural disasters in the region—cementing Friday the 13th’s reputation as a harbinger of chaos.

A Teen Is Struck By Lightning—At 13:13 On Friday the 13th (2010)

You can’t make this up. In 2010, a 13-year-old boy in Suffolk, England, was struck by lightning at exactly 13:13 (that’s 1:13 PM) on Friday the 13th. Miraculously, he survived with only minor burns.

If that ain’t the most cursed-sounding set of numbers in a news story, I don’t know what is.

Flight 571 Engine Explosion (2012)

A Scandinavian Airlines flight from Copenhagen to Helsinki experienced an engine explosion mid-air on Friday, April 13, 2012. The pilot made an emergency landing, and no one was seriously hurt, but it left passengers shaken and headlines blazing.

Folks who boarded that plane on Friday the 13th probably checked their horoscopes real quick after landing.

The Death of Alfred Hitchcock (1980)

Master of suspense Alfred Hitchcock died on Friday the 13th in April 1980. Known for films like Psycho, The Birds, and Vertigo, Hitchcock was the king of cinematic creepiness.

It’s oddly fitting that the man who made millions squirm in their theater seats exited this world on one of the most ominous days on the calendar.

Friday the 13th, the Franchise That Fueled Fear

While not a real event, the Friday the 13th horror franchise has left an undeniable mark on pop culture. The first film dropped in 1980 and introduced the world to Jason Voorhees and his signature hockey mask.

The franchise only added fuel to the fear, turning what might’ve been a quirky superstition into a full-on horror holiday.

In Conclusion

Friday the 13th may just be a date on the calendar, but for some, it’s a whole mood—and not the good kind. Whether it’s cursed coincidences, strange weather, or history-making disasters, this day keeps showing up in all the wrong headlines.

Believe it or not, it makes for a wild ride every time it rolls around.

Related: Why Some Small Towns Have the Craziest Mysteries

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.

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Father’s Day is sneaking up on us like socks in sandals at a backyard barbecue. And if you’re tired of grabbing a last-minute tie or “World’s Best Dad” mug that ends up collecting dust, this list is for you. Whether he’s into grilling, gadgets, or just sitting in peace for once, we’ve rounded up a bunch of realistic, useful, and actually good gift ideas that your dad—or husband, stepdad, grandpa, or favorite father figure—will genuinely love.

1. Something for the Grill Master

Let’s be real—most dads, especially if they are from the South, live for firing up the grill. If your guy’s idea of relaxation includes babying a brisket or flipping steaks, treat him to:

• A wireless meat thermometer (he can monitor temps from his phone)
• A heavy-duty set of grilling tools (extra-long handles for the win)
• A new smoker box or some fancy wood chips for flavor upgrades
• A meat subscription box with handpicked cuts every month

Bonus points if you volunteer to be his taste tester.

2. Tech Toys (That He’ll Actually Use)

Not every dad wants a drone or a smartwatch. But here are some dad-friendly tech gifts that won’t end up in a drawer:

• Bluetooth speaker for porch sitting or garage piddlin’
• Digital picture frame loaded with family photos
• Noise-canceling earbuds (for when y’all get too loud)
• Charging station or multi-port dock for all his gadgets

Keep it simple, keep it practical—and make sure it comes with instructions.

3. Chill Time Essentials

Sometimes the best gift is permission to relax—undisturbed.

• A hammock for the backyard nap of his dreams
• An old-school recliner upgrade (if he’s had the same one since ’98)
• A cooler full of his favorite drinks (bonus if you include snacks)
• A comfy robe or house shoes that don’t fall apart after a week

Let him know it’s okay to sit down for once.

4. Something Sentimental (But Not Sappy)

Some dads really do love the sweet stuff—as long as it doesn’t get too mushy.

• A custom keychain or wallet insert with a short message
• A personalized grill branding iron (yep, that’s a thing)
• A photo book of his greatest dad moments (don’t forget the silly ones)
• A handwritten letter—short, sweet, and from the heart

Sometimes a good laugh and a memory go further than anything on Amazon.

5. Subscription Gifts That Keep On Givin’

If you want a gift that keeps showing up after Father’s Day, try a subscription:

• Monthly jerky box (variety is the spice of life, after all)
• Beer or bourbon-of-the-month club (age 21+, y’all)
• A digital magazine subscription tailored to his hobbies
• Coffee alternatives like tea blends or hot cocoa kits

Make it something he’ll look forward to instead of forget about.

6. The Gift of Time Together

At the end of the day, what most dads want is a little quality time with the people they love—without having to plan it.

• Take him to a ballgame
• Cook his favorite meal (and don’t let him do the dishes)
• Plan a day trip to his favorite fishing hole, car show, or hardware store heaven
• Set up a backyard movie night just for him

No wrapping paper required—just your time and attention.

Let’s Keep It Real

Father’s Day doesn’t have to be fancy. It just needs to feel thoughtful. Skip the clichés and get him something he’ll use, enjoy, or at the very least not pretend to like. Whether it’s a gadget, a grilled steak, or just an hour of peace and quiet—if it makes his day, you’ve done it right.

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.

Image by Hans Bijstra from Pixabay

Memorial Day weekend is often seen as the unofficial start of summer. Folks fire up the grill, hit the lake, and enjoy a much-needed day off. But before we toss on our shades and crack open the cold drinks, it’s worth remembering what Memorial Day is really about.

This holiday isn’t a celebration—it’s a day of remembrance.

So, What Is Memorial Day?

Memorial Day is a federal holiday dedicated to honoring the men and women who died while serving in the U.S. military. It began after the Civil War and was originally known as Decoration Day. People would decorate the graves of fallen soldiers with flowers and flags, taking time to reflect on their sacrifices.

Over time, the name changed, the meaning shifted, and somewhere along the way, it became more associated with long weekends and storewide sales than with military remembrance.

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Why It Still Matters

Now, this ain’t meant to guilt-trip anybody for enjoying the day. But we can hold both things at once: gratitude and good times. You can be at a cookout and still take a moment to pause. Maybe it’s during the National Anthem or while seeing a flag at half-staff. It’s about balance and a little perspective.

Ways to Honor Memorial Day (Without Killing the Vibe)

• Visit a local memorial or cemetery
• Watch a documentary or read a short story about a fallen hero
• Support a veteran-owned business
• Post a respectful tribute on social media
• Take part in the National Moment of Remembrance at 3 PM local time

None of that has to be heavy or overdone. It’s just a small nod to the folks who gave it all.

War memorial

Remember, It’s Not Veterans Day

This is a common mix-up. Veterans Day in November honors all who have served. Memorial Day is specifically for those who died in service. It’s a subtle difference, but it matters—especially to military families.

Final Thoughts

It’s absolutely okay to enjoy your day off. Sleep in. Eat ribs. Take the boat out. But somewhere in between bites and laughter, take a minute to remember why that freedom exists in the first place.

Because while most of us get to enjoy the day, some families carry the weight of it.

Let’s not forget them.

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.

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Let me tell y’all something—there is no group more under-celebrated and overworked than teachers. They’re not just showing up to a job. They’re shaping futures, drying tears, buying supplies out of their own pockets, and still managing to remember which kid likes dinosaurs and which one’s allergic to peanut butter.

Teacher Appreciation Week isn’t just a few themed days and a basket of mints—it’s a chance to slow down and really recognize the people who have poured so much heart into our kids, into us, and into the next generation.

So let’s take a second to honor the ones who…

• Stayed after school for tutoring, even when their own kids were waiting at home
• Spent weekends grading papers and planning lessons
• Showed up with a smile, even on the days that nearly broke them
• Cared about our kids like they were their own

Y’all—teachers are the real MVPs. They’re counselors, cheerleaders, disciplinarians, and sometimes even emergency snack providers. And for one week in May, we get to shower them with the love and gratitude they deserve all year long.

Not sure how to show appreciation? It doesn’t have to be a grand gesture. A handwritten note. A thoughtful gift card. A lunch drop-off. Even just an email saying, “You matter to our family.” It all counts.

This week, let’s go out of our way to say THANK YOU to the teachers who show up for our kids in every way that matters. They don’t ask for the spotlight—but I say we hand it to ‘em anyway.

Here’s to the lesson plan warriors. The recess referees. The hallway heroes.
We see you. We appreciate you. And we love you big.