Tag: holidays

Famous Halloween Cold Cases That Still Haunt Families

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Halloween crime scene

It’s spooky season here on Gigi’s Ramblings, and this year, we’re diving into stories that send a chill down your spine for more than one reason. While some folks decorate with ghosts and goblins, others face real-life hauntings — the kind that come from unanswered questions and unsolved crimes. These famous Halloween cold cases still haunt the families who live with the echoes every October.

The Disappearance of Hyun Jong “Cindy” Song (2001)

In 2001, Penn State student Cindy Song vanished after a Halloween party. She was last seen dressed as a Playboy bunny, dropped off at her apartment in the early hours of November 1. Inside, police found her false eyelashes, fake nails, and purse — signs she made it home. But Cindy was never seen again. Over the years, leads have pointed to possible abduction and even serial killer connections, yet her case remains unsolved, leaving her family desperate for closure.

The Trick-or-Treat Murder of 12-Year-Old Nima Louise Carter (1977)

In Oklahoma City, Halloween of 1977 turned from fun to terror. Little Nima Carter disappeared from her bed after trick-or-treating. Weeks later, she was found in an abandoned house, locked inside a refrigerator. The case shook the community, especially since a babysitter had been murdered in a nearly identical way the year before. Despite several suspects, no one was ever charged. Her parents have carried that grief for decades, haunted by the timing and brutality of it all.

The Candyman Case — Ronald O’Bryan (1974)

This Texas case is one of the most infamous Halloween crimes in history. Ronald O’Bryan, later dubbed “The Candyman,” poisoned his own son’s Pixy Stix with cyanide to collect life insurance money — then tried to make it look like random Halloween candy tampering. His crime sent a shockwave through communities everywhere, changing the way parents viewed trick-or-treat safety forever. Though O’Bryan was caught and executed, the fear he ignited still lingers each Halloween night.

The Disappearance of Arianna Fitts (2016)

San Francisco’s Arianna Fitts was just two years old when she disappeared after her mother, Nicole, was found murdered in a shallow grave in a park — dressed in Halloween-themed clothing. Police believe Arianna’s disappearance and her mother’s death are connected, but after years of searching, the little girl has never been found. Each October, her family pleads for answers, hoping someone will finally come forward with the truth.

The Mystery of the Las Cruces Bowling Alley Massacre (1990)

While not exactly on Halloween night, the eerie timing — just days before — gives this case an unsettling tie to the season. Two gunmen entered a New Mexico bowling alley, killed four people, and injured three more in a robbery gone wrong. The suspects vanished into thin air. Despite composite sketches, leads, and decades of investigation, no one has ever been brought to justice. For the families, every fall brings back the same cold chill of that October day.

Haunting Reminders Every October

Each of these tragedies carries a common thread — families left with questions and communities changed forever. Halloween might bring out costumes and candy, but for some, it’s a painful reminder of the night their loved one never came home. These stories aren’t campfire tales; they’re real, unresolved heartbreaks that linger like ghosts in the crisp October air.

If you’re like me and love a good chill during spooky season, stick around — there’s more haunting content coming your way all month long on Gigi’s Ramblings.

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.

Day of the Dead vs. Halloween: The Differences & Connections

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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.

History of Witches’ Brooms & Their Symbolism

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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.

The Scariest Legends from Texas Backroads

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la llarona

Texas backroads carry more than just dust, mesquite trees, and endless miles of blacktop. For generations, travelers have whispered about strange sights, chilling sounds, and eerie figures that appear when the sun goes down. These legends aren’t just ghost stories; they’re part of the folklore that gives Texas its haunting character. If you’ve ever taken a late-night drive through rural Texas, you know the feeling—like something is watching from the shadows. Here are some of the scariest legends from Texas backroads.

The Woman in White of La Llorona Creek

One of the most famous tales in Texas is the legend of La Llorona, or the Weeping Woman. According to lore, she drowned her children in a moment of despair and has been cursed to wander near creeks and rivers searching for them. Along backroads near San Antonio and the Rio Grande Valley, drivers claim to hear her cries echoing through the night. Some even report seeing a ghostly woman dressed in white standing near the water. Locals warn that if you hear her weeping, it’s already too late—La Llorona is close.

The Donkey Lady Bridge in San Antonio

The Donkey Lady Bridge is one of San Antonio’s creepiest urban legends. As the story goes, a woman was horribly disfigured in a fire and left with twisted hands, a haunting scream, and a face said to resemble a donkey. If you stop on the bridge late at night, people say she will appear, slamming her hands against your car or chasing you back onto the road. Many visitors claim they’ve seen glowing eyes in the darkness and heard screams that don’t belong to any living creature.

El Muerto, the Headless Horseman of South Texas

Down in South Texas, riders still whisper about El Muerto, a ghostly outlaw who roams the brush country. In the 1800s, Texas Rangers caught and executed a bandit by decapitating him, then strapped his body to a horse as a warning. But instead of scaring others, it gave birth to a legend. Travelers report seeing a headless horseman riding through ranch land, sometimes carrying a lantern, sometimes just a dark figure against the moonlight. The ghost of El Muerto remains one of the most feared apparitions on lonely country roads.

The Marfa Lights

Out in the wide-open desert near Marfa, Texas, strange glowing orbs appear in the night sky. These “Marfa Lights” have been spotted for more than a century, baffling scientists and delighting ghost hunters. Some say they’re spirits of long-lost travelers; others believe they’re something extraterrestrial. No matter the explanation, watching glowing lights dance across the desert horizon is both beautiful and unsettling. If you ever find yourself driving Highway 90 at night, you might just catch a glimpse.

The Lake Worth Monster

In the 1960s, people near Fort Worth reported seeing a terrifying creature around Lake Worth—a half-man, half-goat beast with glowing eyes. Newspapers called it the Lake Worth Monster, and stories of attacks, car chases, and nighttime sightings spread fast. Skeptics called it a hoax, but the legend stuck. To this day, some drivers claim to see a tall, horned figure lurking around the woods near the lake, reminding us that Texas has its own monster stories.

Bonus Legends from Texas Backroads

Texas has no shortage of eerie encounters. The Screaming Bridge in Arlington is said to echo with the cries of teens who died in a car accident. In Abilene, people talk about the Black-Eyed Children—strange kids with pitch-black eyes who knock on doors and ask for help, leaving dread in their wake. Near Houston, phantom hitchhikers are reported along dark highways, vanishing once you stop to offer a ride. Each story makes you think twice before pulling over on a lonely road.

Conclusion

From headless riders to glowing lights, the backroads of Texas are filled with stories that make even the bravest traveler uneasy. These legends are more than ghost tales—they’re part of the state’s cultural fabric, passed down from generation to generation. Next time you find yourself driving down a deserted Texas highway at night, keep your eyes on the road and your ears open. You never know what might be waiting in the shadows.

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.

How Scarecrows Went from Farm Tools to Halloween Icons

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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.

Closing Out September With Gratitude

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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.

The Science Behind Why We Love Fall So Much

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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.

Back to Reality After a Much-Needed Getaway

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desk covered with papers and a vaction picture

Image created with Canva AI

Coming home from vacation is always a little bittersweet. Yesterday we returned from South Padre Island, and while the memories are still fresh, reality is already knocking. The drive home took more than eight hours, and by the time we pulled into the driveway, exhaustion had completely taken over.

A Long Ride Back Home

The drive from South Padre felt never-ending. After hours on the road, we were drained and ready to collapse. To top it off, NASCAR moved the race to Saturday night, and the Canelo Alvarez vs. Bud Crawford fight was happening the same evening. Instead of unpacking or doing much of anything, we sank into the couch and let the night pass quietly.

Sunday Comforts at Home

This morning felt like the true reset. Santiago woke up ready for a home-cooked meal, and the grill was calling his name. He threw on steaks and jalapeño poppers while I cooked fresh green beans and red potatoes inside. There’s something grounding about sharing a simple meal together after days of restaurant food and road snacks. It reminded me of how comforting home can be.

The Struggle of Returning to Routine

As good as it feels to be home, reality always finds its way back in. I’ve already slipped into work mode, tackling tasks and easing back into my usual rhythm. Santiago, though, has been extra clingy these past few days, and I can tell his heart isn’t in returning to the grind. He misses working for himself, and it weighs on him every time vacation ends. Watching him struggle with that transition makes me wish things were different.

Holding On to Vacation Peace

Vacations remind us of the balance we crave. On SPI, we spent long hours by the beach and evenings wandering the dunes. Those quiet, simple moments gave us space to breathe and reconnect. Even though the trip is behind us now, those memories carry a calming energy we can take into our daily lives.

Finding Joy in the Everyday

Back to reality Sundays may not be exciting, but they offer a chance to reset. Grilling in the backyard, sitting down to a homemade meal, or even just resting on the couch watching football can bring that same sense of peace we find on vacation. While he heads back to work tomorrow and I continue with my own projects, we both know the next adventure will come soon enough.

Coming home isn’t always easy, but it makes the time away even more valuable.

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.