best friends

Image by Olya Adamovich from Pixabay

You know that feeling when you meet someone, and within five minutes you’re thinking, Yep, we could absolutely cause a little trouble together? Not in a let’s-get-arrested way—though I won’t rule that out—but in a we get each other kind of way. That, my friend, is how I know someone is my kind of person.

It’s not always obvious at first. Sometimes it sneaks up on you, like when you bond over the same childhood snack or a mutual hatred for folding laundry. But there are a few telltale signs I’ve learned to spot over the years. Let’s get into it.

They Laugh at the Same Ridiculous Stuff

If you can cackle over the same offbeat meme, sarcastic one-liner, or poorly timed dad joke—I already like you. I’m not talking about fake politeness laughter either. I mean the deep, belly-shaking kind that makes you wipe tears and say, “Stop, I can’t breathe!”

Bonus points if they can deliver a joke just as well as they can appreciate one. My kind of people know how to be both the comic and the audience.

They’re Not Scared of a Little Real Talk

Listen, I don’t have time for surface-level small talk all day. If you can go from “How’s your day?” to “Here’s what keeps me up at night” in one conversation—we’re gonna be just fine.

I like people who can shoot the breeze about reality TV one second, then flip the script and talk about their biggest fears or deepest dreams without skipping a beat. Life’s too short to fake it, and my kind of folks? They keep it real.

They Love Food Like I Do

Food is my love language. I can tell real quick if you’re my people based on how you react to a plate of nachos or always ready to make a late-night taco stand run. If you’re the type who sends pictures of what you’re eating or invites people over just because you made too much banana pudding—you’re in.

Also, if we both agree that late-night snacks hit different and there’s no such thing as “too much cheese,” you might as well go ahead and move in.

They’re Loyal Without Even Trying

I don’t need someone who’s perfect. I need someone who’s solid. If you’re the type to show up without being asked, defend your people without hesitation, and still check in just because—it’s already settled. You’re one of mine.

My kind of people don’t keep score. They give, they love, they stay—and not for attention or points. It’s just who they are. That kind of loyalty? Rare as a gas station with clean bathrooms. And when I find it, I hold on tight.

They’re Just the Right Amount of Weird

Let me tell you, boring people stress me out. If you can be weird with me—like we make up songs about the dog weird—you’re my kind of person. Life’s already hard. I want the kind of friend who sends me random voice memos, talks to plants, or names their car.

It’s the quirks that make the connection. I don’t need polished. I need genuine. And a little weirdness? That’s the secret ingredient.

They Show Up in the Little Ways

It’s not just about grand gestures. Sometimes, it’s the text that says, “Thought of you when I saw this,” or the person who always tags you in stuff because they know it’ll make you smile.

It’s remembering your favorite scent or calling you out (lovingly) when you’re being dramatic. My kind of person knows the power of small things done with a big heart.

They Let Me Be Me

This one right here might be the most important. If I can fully be myself around you—no code-switching, no eggshells, no overthinking—you’ve passed the ultimate test.

Whether I’m being loud and silly or quiet and deep, you never make me feel like I need to shrink to fit in. You see me, flaws and all, and still stick around. That’s everything.

Final Thoughts

At the end of the day, my kind of people make life easier. They bring peace, not pressure. They make me laugh when I feel like crying and remind me who I am when I forget.

They’re the ones who feel like home, even if we’ve only just met. And if you’ve got someone like that in your life—hold onto them tight. Tell them. Celebrate them. Because finding your kind of people? That’s one of the best parts of this whole messy, beautiful 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 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.

kerrville texas

Photo courtesy: Jessica Silcox

It’s been raining non-stop here. The kind of steady, gray rain that keeps everything still. I stayed in bed most of the day—worked a little, prayed a lot, and kept the news on the entire time.

The Hill Country Is on My Mind

The rescue efforts out of the Hill Country have consumed me. As of right now, there have been 50 confirmed deaths—14 of them children. Most of those little ones were from Camp Mystic. That number keeps hitting me like a punch to the chest. It’s not just a tragic story on the news—it’s personal.

I See My Grandgirls in Their Faces

Every time I see a photo of one of those girls, I think of my grandgirls. I can’t help it. I see their faces. I think about how excited those campers probably were just days ago. I think about the parents who trusted they’d be safe. And I think about the families now living out their worst nightmare. My grandson was just at church camp last week! My anxiety has been through the roof. I can’t stop thinking about the what-ifs.

Just a Few Months Ago…

We were in that same part of the Hill Country just a few months back. I’ve talked before about how much I love it out there. It’s one of my favorite places in Texas. At that time, it was bone dry. The rivers were too low to float. No swimming. No boating. Nothing. And now—just like that—it’s completely different. The weather turned deadly in hours. It’s hard to wrap my head around how fast it all changed.

A Day of Grief and Prayer

I didn’t do much today in the traditional sense. I didn’t clean the house or run errands or even leave my bed for long. But I felt everything today. I prayed harder than I have in a long time. I cried for people I don’t know. I sat with the weight of it all and tried to process something that doesn’t make sense.

I Won’t Forget

Even when the news coverage slows down, I won’t forget today. I won’t forget those children or the families left behind. I won’t forget the fear I felt watching it unfold or the helplessness that settled in my chest. The next time I’m in the Hill Country I will make sure I pay my respects like I always do when visiting the Devil’s Backbone.

Related : Ghosts, Views, and Open Roads: A Trip to Devil’s Backbone

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

horoscope

It’s hotter than a billy goat in a pepper patch, and the stars are actin’ up again, y’all. July’s bringin’ some cosmic chaos with a side of sweet tea. Whether you’re settin’ off fireworks or settin’ boundaries, this month’s horoscopes come with a little Southern twist—because even the zodiac deserves some charm and cornbread.

Aries (March 21 – April 19)

Mood: Firecracker with a fuse
You’re feelin’ bold and bossy, like your meemaw when someone messes with her deviled eggs recipe. Channel that energy into something productive before you burn a bridge or bless someone’s heart a little too hard.

Southern Sayin’: “Don’t start nothin’, won’t be nothin’.”

Taurus (April 20 – May 20)

Mood: Porch sittin’ and pie eatin’
You’re all about comfort this month—whether it’s comfort food, comfort TV, or just a good nap with the fan on high. Don’t let folks guilt you for takin’ it slow. You’re preservin’ your peace and your air conditioning bill.

Southern Sayin’: “If it ain’t broke, don’t fix it.”

Gemini (May 21 – June 20)

Mood: Two-step between chaos and charm
You’re busier than a mosquito at a nudist colony. But sugar, try to focus. July’s got opportunities comin’ in hot, but if you don’t pick a lane, you’re gonna miss the exit—and maybe a BBQ invite, too.

Southern Sayin’: “You can’t ride two horses with one behind.”

Cancer (June 21 – July 22)

Mood: Soft shell, spicy center
You’re extra tender right now, and that’s okay. Wrap yourself up in something cozy (preferably monogrammed), and don’t be afraid to cry over country songs or grocery store commercials. Lean into feelin’ it all.

Southern Sayin’: “Sometimes you just need a good cry and a casserole.”

Leo (July 23 – August 22)

Mood: Pageant queen energy
It’s your season, darlin’, and you are feelin’ yourself. Take the spotlight, but try not to hog the mic at karaoke night. You’re magnetic, loud, and just the right amount of dramatic—but don’t forget to share that shine.

Southern Sayin’: “You ain’t gotta be loud to be seen—but it sure helps.”

Virgo (August 23 – September 22)

Mood: Blessin’ messes left and right
You’re organized, focused, and absolutely done with everyone else’s disorganization. But slow down, sugarplum. Not everybody folds their towels the way you do—and that’s okay (even if they’re wrong).

Southern Sayin’: “Fix your own plate before worryin’ about mine.”

Libra (September 23 – October 22)

Mood: Floatin’ like a paper fan in church
You’re tryin’ to keep the peace, but July’s got drama poppin’ up like uninvited cousins at a cookout. Set some boundaries, drink your water, and remember: mind ya business. Stay safe out here, my fellow Libras!

Southern Sayin’: “You ain’t gotta attend every fuss you’re invited to.”

Scorpio (October 23 – November 21)

Mood: Mystery with a mason jar full of secrets
You’re broodin’ like a storm over the Gulf, and folks are curious what’s brewin’. Let ‘em wonder. July’s a good time to be strategic, play it cool, and maybe plot your next big move in the shadows like a catfish waitin’ for bait.

Southern Sayin’: “Still waters run deep—and probably hold grudges.”

Sagittarius (November 22 – December 21)

Mood: Wild like a bull out the gate
You’ve got the travel bug worse than ever. If you can’t hit the road, at least hit the drive-thru for somethin’ fried and smothered. Just don’t let that restless spirit make you reckless with your words. Mind your manners, even when you’re wildin’.

Southern Sayin’: “Don’t let your mouth overload your ass.”

Capricorn (December 22 – January 19)

Mood: Workin’ like it’s harvest season
You’re stackin’ goals like Granny stacks her coupon drawer. July’s got money moves and responsibility written all over it—but don’t forget to take your boots off and rest a spell. You’re no good to nobody runnin’ on fumes.

Southern Sayin’: “Even tractors need to cool off now and then.”

Aquarius (January 20 – February 18)

Mood: Wacky, wild, and a little wonderful
You’re beatin’ to your own drum, as usual, and July only encourages that. Keep innovatin’, keep dreamin’, but maybe tether yourself to reality before someone calls Mama to come get you off the roof again.

Southern Sayin’: “You ain’t right—and that’s what we love about you.”

Pisces (February 19 – March 20)

Mood: Sensitive like a biscuit in a rainstorm
You’re extra intuitive this month, pickin’ up on vibes nobody else can feel. That’s a gift, sugar, but it can wear you down. Protect your energy like you protect your grandma’s cornbread recipe.

Southern Sayin’: “Not every pot’s yours to stir.”

Whether you’re sweatin’ through your tank top or leanin’ into some big life shifts, July’s a wild ride, honey. Let the stars guide you—but remember, down South, we trust our gut and our Mammaw’s advice just as much.

Now go on, check your moon sign and grab some watermelon.

Related: It’s Beginning to Smell a Lot Like… July?

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

morning person

Image by Marfa Bogdanovskaya from Pixabay

I wake up at 5 a.m. most mornings—not because I want to, but because my husband has to be at work before sunrise. And since I’m the unofficial unpaid family Uber driver, I don’t have a choice. I’ve never been a morning person and probably never will be, but I’ve figured out how to survive the early hours without being a complete gremlin.

If you’ve got a job, a spouse, a kid, or a dog dragging you out of bed before the sun even thinks about rising, here’s what actually helps.

I Set My Alarm to Something That Doesn’t Scare Me Half to Death

No sirens. No buzzing. No angry robot sounds. I set my alarm to a soft tone that gently wakes me up. It’s still awful, but it doesn’t make me throw my phone across the room. I’m already getting up before most humans—I don’t need a mini heart attack on top of it.

I Don’t Think—I Just Move

If I sit there even five seconds too long, I’ll talk myself out of getting up. So I have one rule: don’t think. I roll out of bed like it’s a fire drill. Groggy? Yep. Grumpy? Probably. But if I just get my body moving, my brain eventually catches up… around the time I hit the driveway.

Lights On Immediately (Even If I Hate It)

My eyeballs hate it, but I turn the lights on the second I stand up. No dim cozy vibes here—this ain’t a spa. Bright lights flip the switch in my brain that says, “Fine, I’m awake.” It works faster than caffeine. (Which I don’t even drink—bless all y’all coffee folks, but I’m not one of you.)

I Keep It Quiet and Calm (I Ain’t Got Words Yet)

I don’t want to hear the news, a podcast, or even happy people talking before the sun comes up. Instead, I ease into the day by reading or just silence. Santiago knows better than to ask questions that require real answers before I drop him off. Early morning peace = survival.

I Reward Myself When I Get Home

The only thing that keeps me from spiraling into a sleepy rage is knowing I’ve got a little reward waiting when I get back. A warm shower, a cozy blanket, maybe 15 minutes of reading, scrolling, or doing nothing before the rest of the day starts. If I can just get past the drop-off, I earn that moment.

I Don’t Pretend to Be a Morning Person

I’m not baking muffins or journaling in the moonlight. I’m not doing stretches by candlelight. I’m up because I have to be, and I make the best of it—but I don’t fake it. If you’re forcing yourself through early mornings, give yourself grace. Some of us aren’t wired to love the a.m. grind, and that’s perfectly fine.

I still grumble. I still hit snooze once. But I get it done. And over time, I’ve built little routines that help make the mornings feel less brutal. I may never love early mornings—but I’ve learned how to live with them.

Lisa Crow contributed to this article. She is a true crime junkie and lifestyle blogger based in Waco, Texas. Lisa is the Head of Content at Gigi’s Ramblings and Southern Bred 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.

funny police figure

When the heat cranks up, so does the chaos. But is there really a connection between rising temperatures and rising crime, or is it all just a sweaty coincidence?

Let’s take a look at the facts, theories, and real-life stories that make heatwave crime a hot topic—literally.

The Link Between Heat and Crime

More than a few studies have suggested that extreme heat can mess with our moods. When the temperature spikes, so can aggression. Researchers have even coined the term “heat hypothesis”—the idea that hot weather increases irritability, impulsivity, and ultimately violent behavior.

In short: hot people are cranky people. And cranky people sometimes make bad decisions.

Heatwave Crime Stats Don’t Lie

You don’t have to dig too deep to find proof that summer and crime often go hand-in-hand. Here’s what the numbers say:

  • Violent crime rates tend to increase during the summer months, especially during prolonged heatwaves
  • Crimes like assault, robbery, and domestic disputes are among the most reported during high temps
  • Cities like Chicago, New York, and Phoenix consistently see spikes in criminal activity during hot spells

It’s not just about being mad, either. More people are out and about in the summer, which can naturally lead to more confrontations. Mix that with heat exhaustion and a short fuse? That’s a recipe for trouble.

Famous Crimes That Happened in the Heat

Sometimes, the heat even leaves its mark on famous cases. Take a look at these notable crimes committed during scorching weather:

  • David Berkowitz, aka the Son of Sam, terrorized New York City during the sweltering summer of 1977
  • The Watts Riots of 1965 broke out during a heatwave in Los Angeles
  • The 1995 Chicago heatwave didn’t just claim lives due to temperature—it also saw a sharp rise in crime as city services were overwhelmed

Was it all because of the heat? Maybe not entirely—but it certainly didn’t help.

Why Hot Weather Makes Us Act Out

So why do tempers flare when the temperature does? Experts say it boils down to a few key factors:

  • Discomfort: Sweating, sunburns, and sleepless nights can make anyone moody
  • Dehydration: Lack of water can cloud judgment and mess with your emotions
  • Lack of escape: If you don’t have access to AC or a pool, you’re more likely to feel trapped and irritated

Put all that together and suddenly that guy yelling in the parking lot doesn’t seem so surprising.

Is It Really Just the Heat?

Here’s the twist—some experts argue that it’s not just the thermometer we should be watching. They point to factors like:

  • Longer daylight hours, which give people more time to get into trouble
  • Increased alcohol consumption, especially at outdoor events and parties
  • School being out, which can leave teens and young adults unsupervised and bored

So while heat may play a part, it’s probably not the only reason summer gets a little lawless.

How to Stay Cool and Stay Outta Trouble

Look, we all get a little edgy when it feels like we’re baking from the inside out. But staying cool—literally and emotionally—can help you avoid becoming a heatwave crime statistic. Try these tips:

  • Hydrate like it’s your job
  • Find air-conditioned spaces if you can
  • Avoid conflicts—walk away when things start heating up
  • Check in on your people, especially the vulnerable ones who may be struggling in the heat

Final Thoughts: Coincidence? Maybe Not.

While the jury’s still out on whether heatwaves cause crime, the connection is hard to ignore. Heat makes us uncomfortable, impatient, and on edge—and in the right (or wrong) circumstances, that can lead to trouble.

So next time you feel yourself boiling over during a hot Texas summer, take a deep breath and grab a glass of ice water. Trust me—it’s better than ending up in a police report.

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

Southern mama Life hacks

Image created with Canva AI

When you’ve been raisin’ babies, cleanin’ messes, stretchin’ paychecks, and runnin’ a house full of chaos for more years than you can count, you learn a few things. Some call it wisdom. We call it Southern Mama Survival Mode—and honey, it’s a powerful thing.

Here’s a list of home and life hacks straight from my Southern heart to yours. They’re practical, a little ridiculous, and downright brilliant if I do say so myself.

Keep a Gallon Ziploc Bag in the Freezer for “Soup Starters”

Don’t throw out those leftover veggies, chicken scraps, or even that last spoonful of rice. Toss ’em in a Ziploc bag labeled “Soup Starter” and keep it in the freezer. Once it’s full, dump it in a pot with broth and some seasonin’. Boom. Free dinner.

Use a Pillowcase to Clean Ceiling Fan Blades (Without Gaggin’)

Slide a pillowcase over the blade, squeeze it shut, and pull. It traps the dust inside so it don’t go flyin’ all over your room and your fresh-washed sheets. Learned this one after sneezin’ through spring cleanin’ like a fool.

Mason Jars Ain’t Just Cute—They’re the Ultimate Organizer

Store dry goods, cotton balls, Q-tips, nuts, bolts, leftover paint, bobby pins, or spare change. If it fits, it sits. Bonus points if you write on the lid with a Sharpie like your Granny used to.

Line Trash Cans with Newspaper Before Adding the Bag

This one’s pure gold: lay some newspaper at the bottom of your trash can before you put the bag in. It’ll soak up leaks, fight odors, and keep stuff from stickin’. Just like Mama’s gossip—absorbs the mess before it gets outta hand.

Ice Cubes Fix Carpet Dents Like Magic

You know those lil’ craters your furniture leaves behind in the carpet? Drop an ice cube on it, let it melt, then fluff with a spoon or fork. Works like a charm—no lie. Just don’t forget the towel underneath unless you want a surprise puddle.

Put a Lazy Susan Under the Sink

Tired of crawlin’ around under the sink just to reach the dish soap? Toss a Lazy Susan under there and spin your way to sanity. Works great in the fridge too for sauces, dressings, and that jar of pickles nobody eats but still insists on keepin’.

Lemons + Vinegar = Southern Mama’s Miracle Cleaner

Soak lemon peels in white vinegar for two weeks in a jar. Strain it, and you’ve got the best all-purpose cleaner this side of the Mississippi. Smells good, cleans better, and makes you feel like you’ve got your life together—even if the dog just threw up on the rug.

Keep Dryer Sheets in Your Drawers and Suitcases

Not just for laundry! Tuck a dryer sheet in drawers, shoes, or your suitcase when packin’. I also throw one in each pillowcase when I wash them each Sunday. It’ll keep everything smellin’ fresh and remind you of clean laundry—even if the laundry pile’s taller than your grandkids.

Use a Hanging Shoe Organizer for Snacks or Cleaning Supplies

Hang it on the pantry door or in the laundry room. Each pocket holds granola bars, spice packets, wipes, dusters—whatever you’re tired of diggin’ for. If it can fit in a flip-flop, it can fit in here.

Set a “Power Hour” Timer and Tackle What You Can

Turn on your favorite playlist, set a 60-minute timer, and go full ham. Clean, organize, pay bills—whatever needs attention. You’ll be amazed how much you get done without scrollin’ your whole day away.

White Bread Removes Scuff Marks (And That’s Not a Joke)

Got marks on your wall or shoes? Take a piece of plain ol’ white bread, ball it up, and rub it gently over the spot. It lifts scuffs like magic. Bonus: You can eat the crust while you clean.

Store Sheets Inside Their Matching Pillowcase

Fold up your fitted and flat sheets, tuck ’em inside one of the pillowcases, and store the whole bundle together. That way, when it’s time to change the bed, you ain’t diggin’ through a linen closet like you’re on a treasure hunt.

Rubber Bands on a Paint Can = Mess-Free Brushing

Stretch a rubber band across the opening of a paint can and use it to wipe your brush on instead of the rim. Keeps the can clean, your hands tidy, and your tongue from sayin’ things you’ll have to apologize for in church.

Turn a Cake Stand Into a Fancy Sink Organizer

Put a cake stand beside your sink and load it with soap, sponges, and lotion. Looks cute, keeps things off the counter, and makes you feel just a little fancy—like “bless-your-heart-but-don’t-touch-my-soap” fancy.

A Southern mama knows that sometimes the best fix isn’t fancy—it’s resourceful, simple, and straight from the heart. These hacks ain’t from Pinterest, baby. They’re from real-life livin’, learnin’, and a little trial and error (and maybe one exploded casserole).

Try a few, pass ’em on, and don’t forget: if duct tape and sweet tea can’t fix it, you probably just need a nap.

Related: The Secret to Tackling Laundry Like a Pro

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.

lady in bed a t 2am

Image created with Canva Dream Lab

Ever notice how your brain transforms depending on the time of day? At 2 PM, you’re usually trying to function like a real adult. But at 2 AM? Suddenly you’re a philosopher, a creative genius, and maybe even a part-time stand-up comic. Let’s break down the chaos and clarity that comes with each.

The 2 PM Brain: Responsible…ish

By 2 PM, you’ve likely had a full morning of meetings, errands, or kid chaos. Your brain? It’s clocked in, but it’s tired. This is the hour when:

  • You forget why you walked into a room
  • You reread the same email three times
  • You make to-do lists that include “make a to-do list”

It’s that afternoon slump where you’re mentally present but running on fumes. You’re too responsible to take a nap but too exhausted to solve world problems. I’m usually driving around this time – kinda scary!

The 2 AM Brain: Unhinged but Brilliant

Then there’s 2 AM. You should be sleeping. Instead, your brain’s decided it’s time to revisit that awkward thing you said in 2011. But also? It’s weirdly on fire.

This is the hour of:

  • Random life revelations
  • Deep thoughts like, “What if dogs see time differently?”
  • Sudden motivation to reorganize your entire closet
  • Unstoppable creative energy… for absolutely no reason

You’ll convince yourself that tomorrow is the day you finally change your life. And you’ll believe it. Until, of course, 2 PM rolls around again. Sound familiar?

Why Is This Even a Thing?

There’s actually a name for this nighttime overthinking: revenge bedtime procrastination. It’s when you delay sleep to regain control of your day—especially if your daytime hours are packed with obligations. Your brain rebels, choosing chaos over rest.

Meanwhile, your afternoon fog is thanks to the body’s natural circadian rhythm. That 2 PM dip is real, and it’s why you reach for caffeine, carbs, or a comfy couch.

How to Outsmart Your Brain’s Schedule

Want to keep your 2 PM brain from dragging and your 2 AM brain from spiraling? Try this:

  • Limit screen time before bed
  • Do your creative work earlier in the day
  • Set a “wind down” alarm at night like you do a morning one
  • Schedule short breaks around 2 PM to reset your focus

Final Thoughts: Same Brain, Different Vibes

Your brain isn’t broken—it’s just running different software at different times. At 2 PM, it’s stuck in survival mode. At 2 AM, it’s vibing with the universe. And somehow, we need both.

Whether you’re answering emails or contemplating the meaning of life while staring at the ceiling, give your brain a little grace. It’s doing the best it can… on barely enough sleep.

Interesting Read: The Glorious Concept of the Shower Beer

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.

shower beer

If you’ve never cracked open a cold one in the shower, you’re missing out on one of life’s most underrated joys. A shower beer is exactly what it sounds like: sipping a refreshing beer while standing under hot water. It sounds weird until you try it. Then it becomes a vibe—an escape, a reward, a celebration. It’s that moment when hot steam meets ice-cold brew, and suddenly the world feels just a little better.

The Best Kind of Multitasking

You’re getting clean and catching a buzz at the same time. That’s efficiency. Whether you’re winding down after a long day, pre-gaming for a night out, or just enjoying a lazy Saturday afternoon, adding a beer to your shower routine levels it all the way up. It’s the working adult’s answer to balancing productivity and pleasure. You’ve earned that beer—and now you don’t even have to wait until you towel off to enjoy it.

Why It Hits Different

It’s the contrast that does it. The warm water relaxes your muscles and melts away the stress, while the crisp, cold beer shocks your taste buds to life. That first sip? Pure magic. The rest of the beer? A smooth ride. Plus, your senses are heightened in the shower. Everything tastes better, smells stronger, and hits a little harder. It’s a whole experience, not just a drink.

A Mini Vacation You Can Have Anytime

No need for travel plans or PTO. A shower beer is an instant escape. You step into your own personal steam room, crank up your favorite playlist, and sip like you’re on vacation. No crowds, no lines, no bartenders giving you attitude. Just you, your shower, and that beautiful can of beer.

The Ritual of Relaxation

Shower beers are more than a trend—they’re a ritual. They mark the end of something stressful and the start of something better. Done with work? Beer in the shower. Beat a tough workout? Beer in the shower. Just want to vibe out? You already know. It’s the easiest way to elevate your mood with zero effort.

Tips for the Perfect Shower Beer

Not all beers are built for the steam room. Go for something light and crisp. Think lagers, pilsners, or wheat beers. Skip anything too heavy or too boozy. You want refreshing, not overwhelming. Also, always use a can. Glass in the shower is just asking for a bad time. Pro tip: stick it in the freezer for 10 minutes beforehand for that extra chill.

SEO Gold: Why Shower Beers Are Going Viral

Search volume for “shower beer” is climbing, and it’s easy to see why. It’s relatable, it’s meme-worthy, and it’s part of a larger trend toward small self-care habits that make a big impact. People are looking for ways to relax at home without spending a fortune—and a shower beer costs less than a latte and does way more for your soul.

Final Sip: Treat Yourself

You don’t need a reason to enjoy a shower beer—just a moment to yourself and your favorite cold brew. It’s simple, satisfying, and just the right amount of ridiculous. So next time you’re about to hop in the shower, grab a can, hit play on a good song, and let yourself indulge in the ultimate form of low-maintenance luxury.

Because life’s too short to wait until after the shower.

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.

front porch sittin

Image created with Canva Dream Lab

Ain’t nothing quite like porch sittin’. Whether it’s in the early morning with the world just waking up or late in the evening when the sun’s dipping low, porches are made for relaxing. Sadly, I haven’t gotten much porch sittin’ done lately, and I hate it. Life’s been a little too busy, but that doesn’t change the fact that porch sittin’ is good for the soul.

Sweet Tea: The Unofficial Southern Staple

If you’re sitting on a porch in the South, chances are you’ve got a glass of sweet tea in hand. It’s practically a requirement. The perfect blend of brewed tea and enough sugar to make your dentist nervous just hits different when you’re outside, soaking in the breeze. There’s something about that cold, sweet goodness that makes you slow down, sip a little longer, and forget about the day’s stress.

A Match Made in Southern Heaven

Porch sittin’ and sweet tea go together like biscuits and gravy. One without the other just doesn’t feel right. Whether you’re catching up with neighbors or just rocking back and forth while watching the world go by, sweet tea is the companion you didn’t know you needed. The sound of ice clinking against the glass and that first cool sip after a long day? That’s pure magic.

Why Sweet Tea Just Tastes Better on the Porch

It’s more than just the drink itself—it’s the whole experience. Sweet tea tastes better when you’re on the porch because it’s about slowing down, soaking in the scenery, and just being present. Maybe it’s the memories tied to it—grandma always had a pitcher ready, and it just felt right to enjoy it outside. Or maybe it’s that Southern air that somehow makes sweet tea taste even sweeter.

Finding Time to Sit a Spell

Life gets busy, and porch sittin’ can fall by the wayside. I know I’ve missed out on it lately, and I’m itching to get back to it. Sometimes, we have to remind ourselves to take a break and enjoy the simple things. Sweet tea on the porch is one of those simple pleasures that remind us to slow down and just breathe.

Wrapping Up

Sweet tea and porch sittin’ aren’t just Southern traditions—they’re a way of life. They remind us to take a step back from the hustle, sip something sweet, and enjoy the moment. Whether you’ve got a porch swing, a rocking chair, or just a step to sit on, grab a glass of sweet tea and take a moment to relax. You deserve it.

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.

popcorn and tv

Image by yousafbhutta from Pixabay

I’ll admit it—I have a comfort TV habit, and I’m not even a little ashamed. My toxic trait? Well, one of my toxic traits… I rewatch the same shows over and over instead of trying new ones. I know there’s a world full of fresh, exciting series just waiting to be discovered. But why start something new when I already know what I love? A huge part of my OCD is I hate change, always have.

Let me paint the picture: I still watch the shows I grew up on. Little House on the Prairie, The Golden Girls, Murder, She Wrote, and Unsolved Mysteries are basically part of my DNA at this point. If you turn on my TV right now, chances are one of those is playing—or at least queued up. I watch every single one several times per week.

True Crime Is My Background Music

During the day while I work, I’ve usually got some true crime drama playing in the background. 48 Hours, Dateline, and Snapped are my go-to companions. Some people work to playlists or nature sounds—I work best with murder mysteries unfolding in front of me. There’s something weirdly soothing about it, even if I’ve seen the episode three times already.

Comfort Shows for Every Mood

When I’m not solving fictional crimes, I turn to my feel-good favorites. Hart of Dixie is basically my personal therapy. I’ve rewatched it so many times, I could probably jump in as an extra. The Good Witch is another cozy favorite that just makes everything feel a little more magical.

And yes… Jersey Shore has a spot in the rotation too. I know it’s wild and messy, but honestly? It’s hilarious. Plus, watching other people make chaotic decisions makes me feel better about mine.

Bedtime Is for Cartoons… Don’t Judge Me

Now here’s where things get funny. I sleep with Dora the Explorer or Sofia the First playing. Don’t ask me why—but it works. I used to struggle with nighttime panic attacks, and somehow, these soft, cheerful little shows ease my anxiety. The repetition, the gentle voices, the predictability—it’s like a bedtime security blanket for my brain.

Movies? Only the Ones I Already Know

I’m not big on movies unless they’re on Hallmark or Lifetime. Especially the Christmas ones—those are my jam. I have watched The Highwaymen more times than I care to admit. No regrets though. It’s familiar, and familiar is comfortable.

Why Try Something New When You Have Favorites?

You’d think with all the new shows constantly popping up, I’d try something fresh every now and then. But honestly? There’s something comforting about sticking with what you already love. No surprises, no emotional rollercoasters—just the same cozy characters and predictable plots.

Comfort Viewing Is a Form of Self-Care

Sure, maybe it’s a little quirky. But who cares? Life is stressful enough without feeling guilty for rewatching the same shows. If something brings you peace, laughter, or helps you fall asleep without panic attacks, I say go for it.

So if you’re like me and your “Watch Again” list looks more like a permanent playlist, you’re not alone. This is a safe space for all of us comfort show junkies.

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.