The Great Debate: Real Tree or Fake Tree?

Posted on November 17, 2025November 18, 2025 by gigis ramblings

Image created with Canva AI

Why This Debate Comes Up Every Year

As soon as the holidays roll in, folks start choosing sides. Some love the nostalgia of a real Christmas tree. Others can’t imagine giving up the convenience of a fake one. Most families land somewhere in the middle, which is why this debate never dies.

Why Real Trees Still Win Hearts

A real tree fills a home with a scent you simply can’t fake. That burst of fresh evergreen when you walk into a room instantly sets the mood. The natural shape, the soft needles, and the classic feel all play into the magic.
The formal tree in the living room is the only live one here, always either a Fraser fir or a Noble fir — the bigger the better. The smell, the texture, the whole experience is part of what makes Christmas feel real.

Why Fake Trees Are the Practical Favorite

Fake trees are easy, reliable, and versatile. You can get them pre-lit, slim, flocked, short, tall — whatever suits your space. They don’t shed, don’t need watering, and stay picture-perfect for the entire season.
That’s why they’re perfect for homes with multiple trees. Three of them stay up every year: one in the dining room, one in the master bedroom, and one upstairs. There might even be another added this season.

Finding Your Perfect Fit

The real question is what fits your life and your traditions. If you enjoy picking out a tree every year and love that natural smell, real is the way to go. If convenience and consistency make the season smoother, a fake one might be your match.
Many people mix both — a grand real tree in the main living area and artificial ones throughout the house. It keeps decorating fun without piling on stress.

Final Thoughts

Real or fake, your Christmas tree becomes the backdrop of the season. It’s where the memories happen, where the gifts pile up, and where the glow feels warmest. The best tree is the one that makes your home feel magical.

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.

Sixteen Years Later… We’re Still Here

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

Sixteen years. If we’re being honest, I don’t think either of us—or anybody watching from the cheap seats—would’ve guessed we’d make it this far. Not because we didn’t love each other, but because we walked into this thing with more chaos than calm, more questions than answers, and absolutely no blueprint on how to blend two very different worlds.

He had never been in a serious relationship before me. Never lived with anyone but his parents. Never had the kind of structure most folks grow up with. Meanwhile, I came in like a whole tornado of organization, expectations, and routines. It wasn’t exactly a seamless transition.

The Growing Pains That Shaped Us

There were moments where we almost fell apart. Moments where I felt like I was raising another kid—kind of—because he missed a lot of basic life skills growing up while his parents were off in a bar instead of at home. He was used to utter chaos and mess. It took patience, teaching, and a whole lot of deep breaths.

But let’s be real: I’m no picnic either. My dominant personality can be… a lot. I like things done a certain way, and I don’t bend easily. So trust me, the growing pains were on both sides.

Why Our Relationship Works

Some folks would call us co-dependent because we do almost everything together. Outside of work, you’ll rarely find us apart. And you know what? It works. Other people don’t have to understand our rhythm or our routine. We figured out a long time ago who to keep at a distance and who doesn’t need to be anywhere near our relationship.

We’ve changed a lot over sixteen years. We are now in our calm era. All the kids have grown up and started families of their own. He went from never being in a relationship to being a partner, a stepdad, and a PawPaw to fifteen grandkids in record time. And he handled it like a champ, even when life handed us more chaos than calm.

The Quiet Moments Matter Most

This year, our anniversary weekend was exactly the way we like it—quiet, simple, no stress, no circus. Just us enjoying the calm we built together. We’ll probably take a little celebratory road trip before the month’s over, nothing fancy, just one of those easy adventures that always ends up being our favorite kind.

Sixteen Years of Choosing Each Other

Right now, I’m just grateful. Grateful that after all the hard moments, all the learning, all the adjusting, all the storms, I still have someone walking beside me through this wild, ridiculous life. We’ve laughed, fought, rebuilt, raised kids, spoiled grandbabies, and somehow made it through every bit of it without killing each other—and that alone deserves a trophy.

It’s been one helluva ride. But I’d do it all again. Every last minute of it. Here’s to 160 more with my bestie!

How “Friendsgiving” Became a Modern Tradition

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

When the holiday season rolls around, we all know what to expect — turkey, mashed potatoes, family gatherings, and maybe a little chaos mixed in. But over the last couple of decades, another tradition has taken root alongside Thanksgiving: Friendsgiving. It’s cozy, casual, and all about celebrating the people you choose to call family.

What Exactly Is Friendsgiving?

Friendsgiving is, at its heart, a Thanksgiving-style meal shared among friends rather than family. It usually takes place before or after Thanksgiving Day itself, giving everyone the chance to connect without juggling multiple family obligations.

Think of it as Thanksgiving’s laid-back cousin — no stress, no assigned seating charts, and no one judging your store-bought pie. Everyone brings a dish, shares stories, laughs too loud, and maybe watches football or holiday movies in the background.

The Origins of Friendsgiving

While there’s no single official “first” Friendsgiving, the concept started gaining steam in the early 2000s. Some say it began as a way for young adults living far from home to still celebrate the holiday season with their chosen families.

The term “Friendsgiving” first popped up online and in pop culture around 2007, but it really took off thanks to social media. Instagram posts of beautifully mismatched tables, overflowing charcuterie boards, and toasts over pumpkin punch helped turn a simple gathering into a cultural moment.

Brands soon caught on — from grocery stores running “Friendsgiving” ads to TV shows dedicating episodes to the theme — and now it’s as much a part of November as the Macy’s Parade.

Why Friendsgiving Feels So Special

There’s something refreshing about celebrating without the pressure of perfection. Friendsgiving is about gratitude, but in a softer, more personal way. It’s about:

Flexibility: You can host it potluck-style, cook together, or order takeout.
Comfort: No family drama, no travel chaos — just your favorite people and good food.
Creativity: Every Friendsgiving table looks different — from candlelit dinners to backyard bonfires.

And let’s be real — sometimes your friends understand you in ways even your family doesn’t. That’s what makes Friendsgiving feel so meaningful.

How to Host Your Own Friendsgiving

If you’re ready to start your own Friendsgiving tradition, here are a few easy tips:

Pick a date early. Aim for the weekend before Thanksgiving so more people can attend.
Plan the menu together. Use a shared note or group chat so you don’t end up with seven mac and cheeses (unless that’s the vibe).
Set the mood. Cozy lighting, music, and a few seasonal touches — dark woods, warm tones, rustic table settings — make it feel festive without being fussy.
Don’t forget gratitude. Go around the table and share one thing you’re thankful for this year. It always hits home.

A Tradition Worth Keeping

Whether you’re surrounded by lifelong friends or a new group you’ve just found, Friendsgiving is proof that family doesn’t have to be defined by blood — it’s about connection, laughter, and showing up for one another.

So this November, take a moment to celebrate your people — the ones who’ve seen you through your best and worst days, and who show up anyway, casserole in hand. That’s the real heart of Friendsgiving.

How to Transition Your Home from Fall to Holiday Décor

Posted on November 12, 2025November 13, 2025 by gigis ramblings

As the weather cools and the last of the autumn leaves fall, it’s natural to start thinking about holiday decorations. For some people, that transition starts as soon as Halloween is over, while others—like me—prefer to soak up every last bit of fall. Personally, I don’t start my holiday decorating until Thanksgiving night, because I adore all my pumpkins, scarecrows, and turkeys. But here’s the thing: you should decorate whenever it feels right for you. Enjoy the holidays your way.

Step 1: Start with a Clean Slate

Before you begin pulling out the garlands and ornaments, take a little time to clear away fall clutter. Dust off surfaces, pack up your pumpkins, and give your home a light refresh. This helps you see your space with new eyes and makes decorating less overwhelming.

Step 2: Choose a Transition Theme

If you’re not ready to say goodbye to fall just yet, try blending both seasons together. Think cozy plaid blankets mixed with twinkling lights or neutral holiday tones paired with your favorite rustic décor. Using textures like burlap, pinecones, and evergreen branches helps create a warm, in-between look.

Step 3: Swap Out Scents and Textures

Changing the way your home feels and smells can make a big impact. Switch from pumpkin spice and cinnamon scents to wintery aromas like cedar, peppermint, or vanilla. Add a few faux fur throws or knitted pillows to bring in that cozy holiday vibe without going full Christmas right away.

Step 4: Layer in Holiday Touches Slowly

If you like to ease into the holidays, start small. Add candles, wreaths, or a few twinkling lights to your existing décor. Gradually replace fall elements with more festive ones as you go—maybe swap your fall wreath for one with pine and berries, or trade out your orange candles for silver and red.

Step 5: Make It Personal

There’s no rulebook when it comes to decorating for the holidays. Maybe you love bold Christmas reds, or maybe you prefer a soft, snowy winter palette. You might even leave a few pumpkins out alongside your nutcrackers—and that’s perfectly fine! The best décor reflects you, your family, and your traditions.

Step 6: Enjoy the Process

Whether you decorate early in November or wait until Thanksgiving night like I do, remember that the holidays are about joy and togetherness. Don’t stress about perfection—just create a space that makes you happy every time you walk through the door.

Veterans Hold a Special Place in My Heart

Posted on November 12, 2025November 12, 2025 by gigis ramblings

Every year when Veteran’s Day comes around, I can’t help but think about my own family and the legacy of service that runs deep in our blood. For me, it’s more than just a day on the calendar—it’s personal.

My Family’s Legacy of Service

Both of my grandfathers served in combat during World War II. They didn’t talk much about what they went through, but their silence spoke volumes. My Granddaddy was a Purple Heart recipient, a quiet, humble man who carried his experiences with grace and strength. He never looked for praise or sympathy—he just lived his life with the kind of integrity that leaves a mark on everyone around him.

And then there was my maternal grandmother. She served, too, during a time when women weren’t always encouraged to take on military roles. But she did it anyway—with courage, determination, and a sense of purpose that made me proud long before I was old enough to truly understand what it meant.

Lessons Their Service Taught Me

Growing up with those examples shaped how I see the world. My grandparents taught me that service isn’t about recognition—it’s about sacrifice, honor, and heart. It’s about doing what’s right even when nobody’s watching. Their stories remind me that courage doesn’t always shout. Sometimes it’s quiet. Sometimes it’s found in showing up, doing your part, and carrying on even when it’s hard.

What Veteran’s Day Means to Me

Veteran’s Day isn’t just a day to say thank you—it’s a reminder to live in a way that honors those who’ve served. It’s a time to reflect on the freedoms we enjoy because of people who were willing to risk everything. To me, it’s about remembering the faces, the stories, and the hearts behind the uniforms.

To all the veterans who’ve served, and to the families who’ve stood beside them—thank you. Your courage, strength, and sacrifice don’t go unnoticed. You are remembered and appreciated, not just today, but every day.

True Crimes That Happened on Thanksgiving

Posted on November 11, 2025November 12, 2025 by gigis ramblings

Thanksgiving is meant to be a time for gratitude, family, and good food—but for some, it’s a day that turned dark and unforgettable. Over the years, several shocking crimes have unfolded on this holiday, proving that even the most peaceful traditions can take a deadly turn. Let’s look at a few Thanksgiving tragedies that shook their communities to the core.

The Thanksgiving Day Massacre – Jupiter, Florida (2009)

What was supposed to be a joyful family dinner turned into a horrific scene when 35-year-old Paul Michael Merhige opened fire on his own relatives during Thanksgiving dinner. He killed four family members, including his 6-year-old cousin Makayla. Merhige had reportedly harbored long-standing resentment toward his family, and the attack was carefully planned. He fled the scene and was captured weeks later after being featured on America’s Most Wanted.

The Thanksgiving Slasher – New York City (2016)

On Thanksgiving Day 2016, police were called to a Manhattan apartment where 23-year-old Halima Aden was found stabbed to death. Her boyfriend, Rasheem Brown, was later arrested and charged with her murder. Investigators revealed that an argument over dinner preparations escalated into violence. The case served as a grim reminder that domestic disputes can turn deadly—even on a day meant for love and togetherness.

The Hidden Horror of the Bradford Family (Texas, 2012)

In 2012, in rural Texas, police discovered the bodies of 48-year-old Timothy Bradford and his wife, Debra, after neighbors grew concerned when they didn’t show up for Thanksgiving dinner. Their son, 22-year-old William Bradford, later confessed to killing both parents the night before. He calmly joined friends for a Thanksgiving meal the next day as though nothing had happened. When police confronted him days later, he admitted to the murders without remorse.

The Turkey Day Tragedy – Sacramento, California (2013)

Thanksgiving morning in 2013, neighbors heard gunfire coming from a quiet home in Sacramento. When officers arrived, they found a family of four dead inside. Investigators learned that 28-year-old Andres Avila shot his wife and two children before turning the gun on himself. Family members said the couple had been struggling financially and emotionally. The case became known locally as the “Turkey Day Tragedy.”

The Murder of Heather Bogle – Ohio (2015)

While Heather’s murder wasn’t discovered until days later, investigators believe she was killed over Thanksgiving weekend. The 28-year-old mother was last seen leaving work the day after the holiday. Her body was found beaten and shot, stuffed inside the trunk of her car. The case took several years to solve, with multiple false arrests along the way. Eventually, Daniel Myers, her former coworker, was convicted. The case exposed corruption and incompetence within local law enforcement and sparked community outrage.

Thanksgiving Gone Wrong – Maine (2018)

In 2018, 47-year-old Patrick McCabe was arrested after stabbing his brother during a Thanksgiving dinner in Maine. The fight reportedly started over politics and quickly escalated. The brother survived, but the story went viral as a symbol of how volatile family gatherings can become when tempers flare.

A Day for Family—and for Murder

These stories remind us that beneath the warmth of the holiday season, tensions, secrets, and resentment can sometimes boil over. Thanksgiving may be about gratitude, but for the families of these victims, the day will forever be marked by loss.

Thanksgiving Traditions I’ll Always Hold On To

Posted on November 9, 2025November 9, 2025 by gigis ramblings

Thanksgiving has always been one of my favorite times of the year. It’s more than just turkey and pie — it’s the memories, the music, the little traditions that make it special year after year. Some things might change, but there are a few Thanksgiving rituals I’ll never let go of.

Staying Up All Night Cooking

There’s something comforting about the quiet hours before Thanksgiving morning — the kitchen warm, music playing softly, and the smell of everything coming together. I stay up all night cooking the turkey, prepping the dressing, and making my sausage balls along with all the other goodies. It’s exhausting, sure, but it’s also the heart of the holiday for me. And yes, my cranberry sauce will always come straight out of the can — one big, wobbly blob with the lines still showing. That’s non-negotiable.

Music, Memories, and Late-Night Reflections

While the oven hums and the house fills with the smell of home cooking, I love to listen to music and think back on Thanksgivings gone by. It’s usually a mix of laughter and a little nostalgia — remembering my mama in her apron, the kids underfoot, and the beautiful chaos that always came with family gatherings.

Parade Morning Magic

No matter how late I’ve stayed up the night before, I’m up early on Thanksgiving morning. Watching the parades has always been part of the day — it just wouldn’t feel right without it. I used to spread the newspaper out across the table, flipping through all the Black Friday ads while the floats went by. These days, with no local paper, I scroll through my phone instead. It’s not quite the same, but it still brings back that familiar excitement.

Black Friday Memories

Back in the day, I’d be up before dawn, coffee in hand, ready to hit the stores with a plan and a mission. Elbow-to-elbow with other shoppers, hunting down those doorbusters — that was half the fun. Now, I do about 95% of my shopping online. It’s calmer, easier, and honestly, I don’t miss the crowds one bit. But I still smile thinking about those early mornings and how wild it all used to be.

Putting Up the Christmas Trees

My absolute favorite tradition comes right after Thanksgiving dinner — putting up my trees. I know a lot of folks start early these days, but I love my fall and Thanksgiving décor too much to rush through it. That was my mama’s tradition, and I hold it close to my heart. My main tree is always a live one, so putting it up before Thanksgiving isn’t really an option if I want it to last through New Year’s. There’s just something special about making the switch from pumpkins to twinkle lights when the leftovers are packed away and the house smells like pie.

Football and Charlie Brown

You can bet there’s always football on the TV, especially when the Dallas Cowboys play — that’s just part of being a Texan on Thanksgiving Day. And sometime during the week before, I always make sure to watch A Charlie Brown Thanksgiving when it airs. It’s a small, sweet reminder of the simpler holidays when I was growing up.

Thanksgiving may look a little different these days — fewer ads to flip through and more shopping done online — but the spirit of it all stays the same. Family, food, laughter, and those timeless little traditions are what make the day so special. And those? I’ll always hold on to.

Honoring Life and Love: My Thoughts on Día de Muertos

Posted on November 2, 2025November 3, 2025 by gigis ramblings

Every November 1st and 2nd, families across Mexico and beyond come together to celebrate Día de Muertos — the Day of the Dead. It’s not a day of mourning but of remembrance, a time when the veil between the living and the departed grows thin, and love bridges the gap.

Ever since I was able to spend a significant amount of time in Mexico City, I’ve admired this beautiful tradition. The colors, the music, the marigolds — everything about it is meant to honor life, not death. The belief is simple yet powerful: our loved ones never truly leave us as long as we keep their memory alive.

The Meaning Behind the Altars

At the heart of every Día de Muertos celebration is the ofrenda, an altar built to welcome the spirits home. Each piece of the altar has a meaning — candles to light the way, water to quench thirst after a long journey, and favorite foods or trinkets to remind the spirit of home. The marigolds, or cempasúchil, with their bright orange petals and sweet scent, are said to guide souls back to the land of the living.

For many, the ofrenda isn’t just decoration — it’s a love letter to those who came before us. It’s a space where grief turns into gratitude, and remembrance turns into celebration.

A Celebration of Connection

I’ve always believed that love doesn’t fade when someone passes — it just changes form. Día de Muertos captures that so beautifully. Families gather around gravesites, share stories, eat together, and laugh at old memories. It’s not somber — it’s lively, colorful, and deeply emotional.

The sugar skulls, or calaveras, are playful reminders that death is a part of life, not something to fear. The pan de muerto — that sweet, soft bread often shaped with bones — symbolizes the cycle of life itself. It’s a blend of sweetness and symbolism, much like the holiday itself.

Bringing the Spirit Home

Even if you’re not in Mexico, there’s something to learn from this tradition. Setting up a small ofrenda at home, lighting a candle, or cooking your loved one’s favorite meal can be a meaningful way to honor them. It’s not about getting everything “right” — it’s about connection, love, and remembrance.

For me, I find comfort in thinking that maybe, just maybe, our loved ones stop by when we speak their names or share their stories. Maybe the warmth we feel isn’t just memory — it’s them.

November Blog Goals: Staying Consistent Through the Holidays

Posted on November 1, 2025November 2, 2025 by gigis ramblings

Every November feels like a blur, doesn’t it? Between family gatherings, travel plans, and holiday prep, it’s easy for blogging to take a back seat. But if there’s one thing I’ve learned over the years, it’s that consistency—especially during the busy months—makes all the difference. Whether you’re a full-time blogger or just writing when you can, this time of year can test your discipline, creativity, and focus.

Balancing Holiday Hustle with Blog Goals

The holidays can easily swallow your schedule whole. Suddenly, days are filled with cooking, decorating, and running errands, and before you know it, your blog sits untouched for weeks. That’s why I’m setting a simple goal this November: stay consistent without burning out.

Instead of trying to publish something every few days, I’m focusing on quality over quantity. That might mean batching content early in the month, scheduling posts in advance, or jotting down quick ideas to turn into full articles later. The goal isn’t perfection—it’s progress.

Planning Ahead Makes All the Difference

Planning ahead might sound tedious, but it’s a game-changer when life gets chaotic. A quick brainstorming session can keep your content calendar full without last-minute panic. For me, that means sitting down with a notebook and writing out post ideas for the month—holiday-related topics, year-end reflections, and a few evergreen pieces that’ll still be relevant come January.

If you know you’ve got a busy week coming, get your drafts ready early. Schedule them, set reminders, and don’t be afraid to repurpose older posts with a fresh spin. Readers love a good throwback with updated tips or insights.

Giving Yourself Grace

The truth is, no one’s perfect—and some weeks, things will slip through the cracks. The key is not to give up completely. If you miss a post, jump right back in the next week. What matters most is the commitment to show up again and again, even when life gets noisy.

And remember: the holidays are about connection. If you’re struggling to write long-form posts, try shorter updates, quick reflections, or photo-based content. Your audience will appreciate the authenticity far more than a forced article written at midnight.

Looking Ahead

As I move through November, I’m keeping my goals simple: stay present, stay grateful, and keep creating. The consistency I build now will carry me into the new year feeling confident instead of overwhelmed.

So, if you’re reading this and feeling the same holiday crunch, know you’re not alone. Slow and steady still counts. Every word written, every post published—it all adds up. Let’s finish this year strong, one post at a time.

History of Bobbing for Apples (and Its Spooky Roots)

Posted on October 27, 2025November 2, 2025 by gigis ramblings

Few fall traditions feel as classic as bobbing for apples — that splash of laughter, chilly water, and shiny red fruit floating in a wooden tub. But beneath this wholesome game lies a strange mix of romance, fortune-telling, and superstition that goes back centuries.

From Ancient Harvest Rituals

The roots of bobbing for apples reach all the way back to ancient Celtic and Roman traditions. When the Romans conquered Britain, they brought with them a harvest festival honoring Pomona, the goddess of fruit and trees. Her symbol was — you guessed it — the apple.

Over time, Celtic Samhain celebrations (the holiday that inspired Halloween) mixed with Pomona’s harvest customs. Apples became symbols of fertility, love, and life after death. It wasn’t long before people started using them in games and fortune-telling rituals.

The Love Game

In the 17th and 18th centuries, bobbing for apples wasn’t just a kids’ activity. It was a romantic divination game for young adults. Each apple in the tub represented a potential suitor. If a girl could bite into one on her first try, it meant she’d marry that person. A second or third attempt predicted a rockier road to love. It was lighthearted fun, but many people believed the results revealed their romantic fate.

From Parlor Game to Halloween Classic

As time passed, apple bobbing lost its romantic meaning and became a common party game, especially during fall harvest celebrations in the U.S. By the early 1900s, it was a Halloween staple — a simple, safe way to bring friends and families together for some messy fun.

A Splash of Spookiness

Even though it’s playful today, bobbing for apples still carries a hint of mystery. Apples have long been tied to the supernatural — from the forbidden fruit in the Garden of Eden to the idea that slicing one open on Halloween night could reveal your future lover’s initials. The water, too, symbolizes the barrier between the living and the spirit world in old folklore. So that innocent tub of apples? It’s got centuries of magic and myth swirling around in it.

Why We Still Love It

In an era of haunted houses and high-tech scares, there’s something charming about a game so simple and traditional. Bobbing for apples connects us to old harvest festivals, early Halloween traditions, and that shared excitement of fall gatherings.

So next time you see a tub of apples at a festival or fall fair, remember — you’re taking part in a tradition that’s been around for over two thousand years. And maybe, just maybe, there’s still a little magic floating in that water.