Tag: lifestyle

How to Transition Your Home from Fall to Holiday Décor

Posted on by gigis ramblings
living room decorated for the holidays

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.

Simple Comfort Meals to Make When It’s Cold

Posted on by gigis ramblings
soup cooking on stove baked chicken on counter

Tomorrow’s supposed to be our first chilly day of the season, and I couldn’t be happier. After all this Texas heat, I’m more than ready to bring out the cozy meals. I already know what’s on our menu—I’ll be making myself a big pot of soup and fixing Santiago a baked chicken with dressing. But with the cooler weather rolling in, it’s the perfect time to talk about all those simple comfort meals that make cold days something to look forward to.

Warm, Hearty Soups

Soup season is officially back, and it’s the easiest way to chase off the chill. Whether you’re simmering a pot of creamy potato soup, chicken and dumplings, or a spicy chili, nothing hits quite like that first spoonful. The best part? Soups are low-effort but high-reward—perfect for slow days when you just want the house to smell amazing. Pair with a slice of cornbread or a grilled cheese sandwich and you’ve got a complete, cozy meal.

Classic Casseroles

Casseroles are the ultimate comfort food multitaskers—easy to prep, budget-friendly, and perfect for leftovers. A creamy chicken and rice casserole, cheesy baked ziti, or shepherd’s pie will fill your home with warmth and fill everyone’s belly with happiness. They’re the kinds of dishes that remind you of family gatherings and Sunday dinners after church.

Slow-Cooked Favorites

Pull out that slow cooker or Dutch oven—it’s time for all those rich, hearty meals that taste like they took all day (because they did). Think tender pot roast with carrots and potatoes, beef stew that melts in your mouth, or a slow-cooked gumbo that fills the kitchen with Cajun spice. The longer it cooks, the better it gets.

Down-Home Southern Sides

No comfort meal is complete without the sides. Fluffy mashed potatoes with gravy, macaroni and cheese, buttered corn, or baked beans can turn a simple dinner into a feast. And let’s not forget a pan of golden cornbread—because nothing soaks up that last bit of gravy or broth quite like it.

Sweet Finishes

After a comforting meal, a warm dessert is the perfect ending. Apple crisp, bread pudding, peach cobbler, or banana pudding—these aren’t fancy desserts, just old-fashioned favorites that never disappoint. They’re the kind of sweets that make you want to stay curled up in your pajamas a little longer.

When the weather cools down, comfort food does more than just fill you up—it wraps you up. It brings people to the table, slows down the pace, and makes home feel even cozier. So as the cold creeps in, pull out those family recipes, stir up a pot of something good, and let the warmth start from the inside out.

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 Cozy Girl’s Guide to November

Posted on by gigis ramblings
a lady cozied up with hot chocolate and a book

November just feels different. The air’s got a chill, the leaves are crunching underfoot, and life seems to slow down just enough for us to breathe it all in. After the chaos of summer and the rush of early fall, November is that sweet, calm middle ground — the perfect time to cozy up, throw on some comfy pjs, get intentional, and enjoy the small things that make life soft and warm again.

Slow Down and Settle In

This month is made for rest. The days get shorter, which is nature’s way of nudging us to slow down, not speed up. I know it’s not a popular opinion, but I love falling back to standard time. This is God’s time, and our circadian rhythm follows it naturally. There’s something peaceful about watching the sunset a little earlier and letting the evening stretch out slow. It’s permission to pause — to read, reflect, or simply sit in the quiet without guilt.

Create a Cozy Atmosphere

If there’s ever been a time to lean into soft lighting, flickering candles, and warm blankets, it’s now. I always pull out my favorite throws, swap bright décor for earth tones, and light something that smells like baked apples or cinnamon sugar. The goal? Turn your home into a little haven where you actually want to stay in.

Nourish Yourself Inside and Out

November food hits different — soups, stews, casseroles, and baked treats that make the whole house smell like home. Lean into those comfort foods, but don’t forget the emotional side of nourishment too. Journal more. Sleep longer. Take long baths. Light a candle and just sit still for a while. Cozy isn’t just about what you wear — it’s about how you treat yourself.

Make Space for Gratitude

It’s the season of Thanksgiving, sure, but gratitude shouldn’t be confined to one day. Keep a running list of small joys — like your favorite fuzzy socks, quiet mornings, or a good book that keeps you up past bedtime. When life starts to feel heavy or hurried, those little reminders pull you back to what matters most.

Savor the Simple Things

Go for slow walks in the cool air. Drink hot chocolate on the porch. Watch a Christmas movie or two. November is about finding magic in the mundane. It’s the calm before the holiday storm — a time to soak in life before the tinsel and to-do lists take over.

So this month, lean into your cozy era. Wear the sweater. Light the candle. Let yourself rest. Because November isn’t just another month on the calendar — it’s an invitation to live slower, softer, and sweeter.

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.

Fifty. And Honestly… I’m Not Sure How I Feel About It

Posted on by gigis ramblings
Black layered 50th birthday cake

Tomorrow I turn fifty. And to be honest, I don’t feel like celebrating. I’m not dreading it exactly, but I sure don’t feel like throwing confetti either. It’s this weird mix of gratitude and disbelief — like I blinked and somehow half a century just… happened.

Don’t get me wrong — I’m grateful. Lord knows I am. I’ve lost some people I loved deeply — two of my very best friends — far too soon. Their birthdays stopped coming, their laughter now just echoes in old stories and memories. So I know how lucky I am to still be here. To wake up, breathe, and live another day. That’s a blessing I don’t take lightly.

But even with all that gratitude, I can’t shake this strange feeling. It’s like time snuck up behind me while I was busy raising kids, working, paying bills, and just living. I swear some days I still feel thirty. And then other days I catch a glimpse of myself in the mirror, or my knees pop when I stand, and I think, “Well… there it is. Fifty.”

It’s not that I’m scared of aging. It’s more like I’m stunned by it. How did I get here so fast? Where did the years go? I remember when fifty sounded old. Now I’m here, and it doesn’t feel old — it just feels… different. Like I’ve crossed into a new chapter that I didn’t realize I was writing.

There’s also this quiet shift that happens as you get older. The things that once felt so important — the hustle, the noise, the constant need to prove yourself — start to fade. You start craving peace more than perfection. You want real conversations, slower mornings, and people who feel like home.

And maybe that’s the silver lining of fifty. You care less about impressing the world and more about actually enjoying the one you’ve built.

Still, I’d be lying if I said it’s all peace and perspective. There’s a part of me that aches for the people I’ve lost — for the years that won’t come back, for the chances I didn’t take, and for the time that slipped away in a toxic relationship.

But even through that ache, I can feel gratitude sitting right beside it. Gratitude that I got to love those people. Gratitude that I still have time to do the things that make my heart happy. Gratitude that I’m still standing, still learning, still growing — even if I don’t always want to blow out the candles and pretend to be thrilled about it.

So no, I’m not throwing a big party. I don’t need balloons or streamers or a fancy dinner. I just need a quiet moment to say thank you — for the lessons, the memories, and the strength that got me here.

Fifty may not be the milestone I’m jumping up and down about, but it’s one I’m learning to respect. Because it means I’ve lived. I’ve loved. I’ve lost. And I’m still here — a little wiser, a little softer, and maybe just starting to understand what really matters.

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.

Harvest Moon 2025: An October Super Moon

Posted on by gigis ramblings
hunters moon overlooking a meadow with deer

The Harvest Moon is one of the most iconic full moons of the year. Known for its brilliant glow and strong ties to farming traditions, this full moon has guided harvests, inspired festivals, and filled autumn skies with light for generations. In 2025, the Harvest Moon will rise in October — and it will also appear as a super moon, shining bigger and brighter than usual.

What is the Harvest Moon?

The Harvest Moon is the full moon closest to the autumn equinox, which happens around September 22–23 each year. While many expect it in September, some years the timing places it in October — and 2025 is one of those years.

Its name comes from its practical purpose in the past. Long before electricity, farmers relied on this full moon to provide extra light in the evenings, helping them bring in crops after sunset. The Harvest Moon made it possible to work later into the night, ensuring fields were cleared and stored food was ready for the colder months ahead.

Unlike most full moons, which rise about 50 minutes later each night, the Harvest Moon rises only 30–35 minutes after sunset for several days in a row. This creates a stretch of unusually bright evenings, perfectly timed for harvest work — or today, for moonlit walks and stargazing.

Why the 2025 Harvest Moon is Special

This year’s Harvest Moon won’t just be bright — it will be a super moon. A super moon occurs when the moon reaches its closest point to Earth (perigee) at the same time it becomes full. The result is a moon that can appear up to 14% larger and 30% brighter than usual.

In October 2025, the Harvest Moon will seem especially dramatic as it rises on the horizon. Thanks to atmospheric effects, it may appear orange or golden at first, perfectly matching the colors of autumn leaves and sunsets. Combined with the super moon effect, it’s sure to be one of the most memorable moons of the year.

How to See and Photograph the Harvest Moon

The best way to experience the Harvest Moon is to head outdoors at moonrise. Watching it climb over the horizon creates a striking visual, especially in October when the air is crisp and the landscape is rich with fall colors.

Photography tips:

  • Use a tripod for clear, steady images.
  • Try a wide-angle shot that includes barns, trees, or fields to capture autumn’s atmosphere.
  • For close-up moon detail, a telephoto lens works best.
  • Experiment with shutter speed to balance brightness between the glowing moon and darker surroundings.

Symbolism of the Harvest Moon

The Harvest Moon is more than a natural event — it carries deep symbolism. It represents abundance, gratitude, and preparation. For centuries, communities celebrated under its light, marking the season of gathering and giving thanks before winter’s quiet months.

Today, the Harvest Moon continues to inspire traditions. From autumn festivals and bonfires to themed gatherings and seasonal décor, it’s a reminder to pause, celebrate the fruits of the season, and reflect on life’s cycles.

Final Thoughts

The Harvest Moon of October 2025 is a rare combination of tradition and spectacle — a super moon that will glow larger and brighter than usual. Whether you’re watching with family, snapping photos, or simply admiring it in silence, this moon connects us to both the past and the natural rhythms of the Earth.

This October, don’t miss the chance to step outside, breathe in the cool autumn air, and witness the radiant glow of the Harvest Moon lighting the night sky.

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 to Refresh Your Bedroom for Cozy Season

Posted on by gigis ramblings
bedroom decorated in warm fall colors

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

Start with Layers

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

Warm Up with Lighting

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

Add Seasonal Scents

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

Switch Up Bedding

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

Bring Nature Indoors

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

Focus on Comfort

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

Personalize the Space

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

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

Lisa Crow contributed to this article. She is a true crime junkie and lifestyle blogger based in Waco, Texas. Lisa is the Head of Content at Gigi’s Ramblings and Southern Bred True Crime Junkie. She spends her free time traveling when she can and making memories with her large family which consists of six children and fifteen grandchildren.

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.

Sunday Wrap-Up: Craft Stores, Wax Melts, and Nachos

Posted on by gigis ramblings
fall collage

Kicking Off the Weekend

This weekend felt like one of those rare ones where we actually balanced fun with productivity. Our incense and wax shipment got delayed, so Santiago decided he wanted to switch it up and make a car freshie. Y’all, it’s been a long time since we’ve done one, but once you get in that craft mode, it all comes back quick.

Craft Store Temptations

On Saturday, we made the brave decision to hit up both Michael’s and Hobby Lobby for their big sales. I don’t know about you, but walking into those stores this time of year is dangerous. Every aisle screams “take me home,” and well… I might’ve grabbed a little bit of everything—Halloween, Fall, Thanksgiving, and Christmas. Basically, my cart looked like the seasonal aisle exploded.

We also picked up some emergency wax because nothing gets in the way of seasonal holiday melts around here. Priorities, right?

Creative Chaos

Saturday night turned into a full-blown craft-a-thon. We had a quick little paint date (yes, covered in paint before dinner is a whole vibe), then we were pouring wax until the wee hours of the morning. No regrets—except maybe when the alarm clock went off and we realized we slept in until 9.

Sunday Reset Mode

Even with a late start, we didn’t waste the day. Santi took care of the dogs while I tackled the bedding (ours and the dogs), and we got the pool winterized and covered for the season. That always feels like the official “goodbye summer” moment, doesn’t it?

Not Your Typical Sunday Dinner

Usually, Sundays mean a big home-cooked meal, but today I kept it simple—nachos for dinner and a strawberry cake for dessert. Let’s be real, that cake isn’t doing me any favors in the “getting back to homeostasis” department, but it sure tasted good.

Wrapping It Up

Now the evening’s winding down with the race and some football. Honestly, it feels like the perfect way to close out a weekend that had a little bit of everything—crafting, shopping, chores, and a whole lot of fun.

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 Horoscope Predictions

Posted on by gigis ramblings
planets and clouds zodiac

We’re halfway through September, and the stars are shifting as we move from practical Virgo season into the harmonious energy of Libra. The second half of the month brings opportunities for balance, connection, and clarity. Here’s what each sign can expect in the weeks ahead.

Aries (March 21 – April 19)

You’ve been busy, but now it’s time to focus on partnerships. Collaborations, both personal and professional, may bring unexpected rewards.

Taurus (April 20 – May 20)

The second half of September highlights love and creativity. Relationships deepen, and inspiration strikes in ways that keep you motivated.

Gemini (May 21 – June 20)

Your home life and close connections call for attention. Whether it’s redecorating or reconnecting, you’ll find joy in creating comfort.

Cancer (June 21 – July 22)

Communication remains a strong theme. Important conversations open new doors, especially as Libra season encourages fair solutions.

Leo (July 23 – August 22)

Finances and responsibilities take the spotlight. Use the rest of this month to set clear priorities before new opportunities arrive.

Virgo (August 23 – September 22)

It’s still your season, Virgo. The coming days push you to step confidently into the spotlight. Focus on self-growth and future plans.

Libra (September 23 – October 22)

Your season is right around the corner. The rest of September helps you recharge and prepare. Expect clarity and renewed energy as your birthday month begins.

Scorpio (October 23 – November 21)

Social connections light up. New alliances may lead to exciting opportunities, but protect your energy when needed.

Sagittarius (November 22 – December 21)

Your ambitions are on the rise. Recognition may come, but balance it with personal time. Use the next two weeks to plan big moves.

Capricorn (December 22 – January 19)

Growth comes through expanding your horizons. Travel, study, or fresh ideas help set the tone for the rest of the year.

Aquarius (January 20 – February 18)

Deep reflection continues, but clarity arrives as Libra season approaches. Use this energy to rebuild balance in finances or relationships.

Pisces (February 19 – March 20)

Partnerships are highlighted, and harmony is within reach. This is the perfect time to strengthen bonds and make peace where needed.

The second half of September brings a shift toward balance and connection. Use this time to finish strong before the month closes.

Why Incense Belongs in Your Home

Posted on by gigis ramblings
smoking incense

At Mama Crow’s, we’re always looking for new ways to help you bring comfort, calm, and a little magic into your daily life. Recently, we added incense to our lineup, and we couldn’t be more excited to share it with you.

A New Layer of Ambiance

You might already know us for our wax melts, which fill your home with warmth and fragrance. Incense offers something a little different. While wax melts slowly release scent as they melt, incense creates an immediate, sensory experience. The soft curl of smoke, the rich aroma, and the ritual of lighting it all combine to transform a space almost instantly.

Why People Use Incense

People use incense for a variety of reasons, and it’s not just about making a room smell good. Many light incense to create a calming atmosphere during meditation, yoga, or quiet reflection. The scents can help reduce stress, promote focus, and even inspire creativity. Others use it to add a cozy or festive touch to their home, enhancing a gathering or quiet evening.

Some people are drawn to incense for spiritual or ritual purposes. Lighting incense has been a part of human tradition for thousands of years—whether in temples, homes, or personal practice—to invite tranquility, clarity, or intention into their lives.

Our Approach at Mama Crow’s

We chose our incense selection with care, focusing on scents that are both comforting and captivating. Each stick is designed to offer a sensory experience that can uplift your mood, enhance your space, or just help you unwind after a long day. Whether you’re a long-time incense user or trying it for the first time, we wanted to create something approachable, high-quality, and just plain enjoyable.

Give It a Try

If you haven’t experienced incense before, now’s the perfect time. Light a stick, take a deep breath, and let the scent carry you somewhere calm and comforting. It’s a simple way to add a touch of ritual and beauty to everyday life.

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.