What I’d Tell Someone Starting a Side Hustle Today

Posted on July 30, 2025July 31, 2025 by gigis ramblings

Starting a side hustle can feel exciting, overwhelming, and honestly, a little scary. Whether you’re chasing a dream, building a backup plan, or just looking to bring in some extra income, the journey is full of lessons. If I were talking to someone starting out today, here’s exactly what I’d tell them.

Start Before You Think You’re Ready

Waiting until everything is “perfect” will leave you stuck. Most people delay because they think they need a website, a logo, a brand, or even a big audience. Truth is, you don’t need any of that to begin.

Just start. You learn so much more by taking action than by sitting on the sidelines planning. Whether it’s selling handmade goods, offering a service, or launching digital content, done is better than perfect.

Don’t Spend a Bunch of Money Upfront

You don’t need a big budget to get started. Use what you have. Your phone, internet, and social media accounts can go a long way.

There are free and low-cost tools like Canva, Google Docs, and email platforms that help you build as you go. Focus on delivering value instead of trying to look like a polished brand from day one. That part can come later.

Stop Worrying About What People Think

One of the biggest things that holds folks back is fear—especially fear of judgment. You might wonder what your friends, family, or coworkers will say. Here’s a secret: most people are too wrapped up in their own lives to dwell on what you’re doing.

If they do judge you, that says more about them than it does about you. The people who matter will cheer you on. The rest? Let ‘em watch.

You’ll Learn More By Doing

You don’t need to be an expert to get started. You’ll figure things out as you go. It’s okay to make mistakes—they’re part of the process.

Sure, listen to podcasts or take a short course if you want to—but don’t let “learning” become a way to avoid action. Take messy steps forward. That’s how real progress happens.

Be Consistent Even When It’s Slow

The beginning can feel like a grind. You might post content and hear crickets. You may make zero sales in your first week. That’s normal.

The difference between people who succeed and people who quit is simple—consistency. Keep showing up. Keep learning. Keep adjusting. Results compound over time, but only if you stay in the game long enough to see them.

Protect Your Time and Energy

Balancing a side hustle with your regular life is no joke. You’ve got to be intentional with your time. Block out hours in your week just for your hustle. Treat it like an appointment.

And don’t forget to take breaks. Burnout won’t help you hit your goals any faster. You’re in this for the long haul.

Be Willing to Pivot

Sometimes the thing you start with won’t be the thing you stick with—and that’s okay. You might launch one product and realize your audience wants something slightly different. Or maybe you discover you enjoy one part of your hustle more than another.

Pivoting is smart, not shameful. Let the data and your gut guide you. It’s your business—build it in a way that works for you.

Final Thoughts

If you’re thinking about starting a side hustle, don’t overthink it—just start. Take the leap, even if it’s small. Use what you have. Ignore the noise. Be consistent. And know that success rarely shows up overnight.

But if you stick with it, adjust as needed, and keep learning—you’ll be amazed at what you can build.

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.

When Life Hits Hard, Consistency Matters

Posted on July 25, 2025July 25, 2025 by gigis ramblings

Image created with Canva AI

Whew. The past few days have been rough. I’ve been knocked completely off my feet with something I still can’t quite name. Fever, body aches, and quite possibly the worst headache I’ve ever had in my life. I’ve spent most of my time in bed, and while I’m grateful I can technically work from bed, that doesn’t help much when your energy’s at zero and your head feels like it’s being crushed in a vice.

So, why am I writing this? Because I haven’t posted a blog in several days, and I don’t want to fall off the face of the digital earth. Sometimes, you just need to check in and remind yourself—and your audience—that life happens. But also? This is a hard lesson in the importance of batching content.

The Reality of Falling Behind

Here’s the truth: even before I got sick, I was already behind. I’ve been feeling off for a while and staying busy with other parts of my job. Between trying to keep up with responsibilities, work projects, and life in general, blogging just kept getting pushed to “tomorrow.”

That’s a no-no when you’re trying to build a presence online. One missed post becomes two, then a week goes by, and suddenly your traffic drops, your engagement slips, and the algorithm isn’t working in your favor anymore. Whether you’re a content creator, a blogger, or running a small business, consistency is everything. Without it, your audience doesn’t know when to expect you—or if they even should.

Why Batching Content Saves You

This is where batching comes in. I preach it all the time, and yet here I am, not practicing what I preach. I had no content prepared. Not a single pre-written post to pull out in case of emergency. And this was an emergency, just not the kind you expect.

Batching content means you sit down during your good days and knock out several pieces at once. Instead of writing one blog post a day or scrambling for a caption every morning, you block out time and create a backlog. Think of it like meal prepping—but for your business.

The Benefits Are Too Big to Ignore

When you batch your content, you free up mental space, save time, and create breathing room for when life throws you a curveball. Some of the biggest benefits include:

Always having something ready to publish
Reducing daily stress and decision fatigue
Keeping your brand consistent and reliable
Being able to take time off without disappearing
Staying ahead of holidays, promotions, and busy seasons

Even if you don’t feel creative every single day, batching allows you to show up as if you do. Your audience doesn’t need to know you wrote that post two weeks ago while sipping lemon water and feeling fabulous. All they see is that you’re present and consistent.

Lessons Learned (the Hard Way)

Being sick and behind has taught me a couple things. First, I can’t afford to leave content creation to chance. Second, batching isn’t just a nice idea—it’s a non-negotiable. When you’re juggling work, life, and a million responsibilities, batching is your safety net.

I’m giving myself grace for this past week, but I’m also setting the intention to get back on track. That means carving out time to prep content, even if it’s just one or two extra posts each week. Because future me—the one who might be down with the flu, swamped with work, or taking a vacation—deserves that backup plan.

A Gentle Reminder for Fellow Creators

If you’ve been putting off batching because you feel like you don’t have the time, let this be your sign. You don’t have time not to. Life is unpredictable. Your business doesn’t have to be.

Now if you’ll excuse me, I’m going to try to get a little more rest. But at least now, I’ve got one fresh post scheduled—and a renewed commitment to practice what I preach.

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.

How I Clean When I’m Mad

Posted on July 21, 2025July 22, 2025 by gigis ramblings

Image by svklimkin from Pixabay

Ever been so mad you could scrub the paint off the walls? Same. When I get fired up, I channel every ounce of that frustration into something productive—cleaning. It’s not just about tidying up; it’s therapy with a mop in hand. So if you’re the kind of person who needs to do something when you’re mad, this one’s for you. Here’s how I clean when I’m mad and how you can turn a bad mood into a clean house.

First, I Let the Rage Pick the Playlist

Before I touch a single sponge, I grab my phone and put on a playlist that matches my mood. We’re talkin’ angry girl anthems, Southern rock with some bite, or old-school rap that makes you feel like you can throw hands with the dust bunnies. This isn’t a soft, easy listening kind of clean—we’re deep cleaning like our feelings depend on it. And in a way, they kinda do.

I Start With Whatever’s Bugging Me Most

I don’t follow a routine when I’m mad. I go straight for the mess that’s bothering me the most. If it’s the kitchen counter stacked with dishes, that’s where I go. If it’s the laundry that’s been sitting in the dryer for two days, I’ll yank it out like it personally offended me. When I’m in a mood, I let that emotion guide me, and honestly, it works better than any chore chart ever has.

I Clean Harder, Faster, and Meaner

I don’t gently wipe things down—I scrub. I vacuum like I’m mad at the carpet. I slam trash bags around and toss clutter into the trash like I’m tossing ex-boyfriend hoodies (no offense, Santiago). And I swear, the more I clean, the more the anger melts away. It’s like I’m sweeping up my feelings and dumping ‘em out with the crumbs.

I Talk to Myself While I Do It

Don’t judge me, but when I’m mad-cleaning, I talk it out. Sometimes I mutter under my breath. Sometimes I full-on rant while wiping down the fridge. And every once in a while, I’ll laugh at how ridiculous I sound—but by then, I’m already halfway through a deep clean. Bonus: no one wants to interrupt me, so I get to clean in peace.

I Use It As a Reset

By the time I’m done, I usually feel calmer. My house looks better. My mind feels clearer. And even if the thing that made me mad is still lingering, it doesn’t feel quite as heavy. Cleaning when I’m mad gives me a way to reset without taking it out on anyone (or texting something I’ll regret).

I Don’t Aim for Perfection—Just Progress

Let’s be honest: angry cleaning isn’t always methodical. Sometimes I miss a spot. Sometimes I forget to pop in a wax melt or put things all the way back where they belong. But I’m not chasing perfection—I’m just channeling energy. And progress, especially when you’re fired up, is better than sitting around stewing.

Cleaning when I’m mad isn’t just about having a cleaner home. It’s about doing something with the anger instead of letting it eat me up. Plus, nothing feels better than slamming a cabinet shut knowing the junk drawer inside is finally organized.

So next time you’re mad, don’t doom-scroll or fire off that text. Grab a rag and turn that rage into sparkle.

How I Batch Summer Content Without Losing My Mind

Posted on July 12, 2025July 14, 2025 by gigis ramblings

Image by Markus Winkler from Pixabay

Summer is chaos, y’all. Between family time, BBQs, weekend trips, the grandbabies running wild, and trying to stay cool in this Texas heat—content creation can feel like herding cats. But batching content? That’s how I survive it.

If you’re a blogger, small biz owner, or just trying to keep your social feeds alive while living your life, let me show you how I batch summer content without pulling my hair out.

Why I Batch in the First Place

I don’t want to spend every sunny day hunched over my laptop. I want to be outside with the hubs, tossing something on the grill or floating in the pool with a cold drink. Batching lets me do that.

By setting aside a few focused hours each week, I can knock out blog posts, social captions, and graphics ahead of time—so the content rolls out even when I’m offline.

Step 1: I Start With a Master Plan

First thing’s first—I grab my planner and jot down every blog, post, idea, or promo I need to push during the month. This includes:

Blog post topics
Product promos or launches
Newsletter themes
Social media post ideas
Seasonal reminders (like swapping to fall scents!)

Then I sort everything by week and match the heavier stuff (like blog posts) with lighter tasks (like IG Stories). That way I don’t get burnt out all in one day.

Step 2: I Use Templates Like a Pro

I don’t reinvent the wheel every time. I’ve got templates for everything—from blog post layouts to Pinterest pins to Instagram captions.

For example:

Blog posts always follow a tried-and-true structure with headings
My social captions follow formats like: “Question + personal touch + call to action”
Pinterest graphics are all made in batches with plug-and-play designs

Templates are the secret sauce that keeps my batching quick and easy.

Step 3: I Batch by Type, Not Platform

Trying to write a blog post, edit a Reel, and design pins in one sitting is a recipe for burnout. Instead, I batch by type of task:

Writing Day: I write blog posts, captions, or product descriptions
Design Day: I make all graphics, thumbnails, and story templates
Scheduling Day: I load it all into platforms like Canva, Tailwind, or Meta

This keeps my brain from switching gears too often—and everything gets done faster.

Step 4: I Use the Weather to My Advantage

It’s hot in Texas. Real hot. So I plan my batching sessions during those brutal afternoon hours when I don’t want to step foot outside anyway.

I’ll turn on a documentary, pour a tall glass of ice water, and knock out two to three hours of content work while everyone else is napping or hiding from the heat. Come evening, I’m free to enjoy the cooler air and my family.

Step 5: I Give Myself Grace (and Wiggle Room)

Let’s be real—life happens. A kid needs help, the dog throws up, or I just need a dang break. I always leave open space in my calendar for catch-up or extra ideas that pop up.

If I don’t get everything batched perfectly? That’s fine. The world won’t end if I skip a post here and there. I’d rather be consistent most of the time than burnt out all the time.

Final Thoughts

Summer should be for making memories—not stressing over your next post. Batching lets me keep my content flowing while still living my life, enjoying my family, and maybe even catching a little tan along the way.

If you’ve never tried batching, give it a go. It takes a little planning, but once you get your groove? It’s a total game-changer.

Let me know if you want to see my favorite templates or how I schedule out a full week in under an hour. I’ll spill it all!

The Worst Room in My House and Why It Stays That Way

Posted on July 9, 2025July 10, 2025 by gigis ramblings

A Room Full of Chaos—and Dreams

I know folks like to assume the kitchen is the heart of the home. But in my house? The chaos lives in the craft room. And when I say “worst room,” I don’t mean it’s ugly or unloved—I mean it’s a beautiful, overwhelming mess that somehow rules my entire life.

Welcome to My Craft Cave

This ain’t your average craft nook. Oh no, honey—this is the headquarters of Mama Crow’s. It’s where I make every single wax melt y’all love so much. It’s got zones. Like, legit stations:

A melting station for my wax melter
A pour station to get those blends just right
A packing station to label, wrap, and box it all up
And let’s not forget the shelves stacked with molds, fragrance oils, bags, and every kind of supply you can think of

More Than Wax—It’s a One-Woman Workshop

And as if that wasn’t enough? This room also houses my:

Silhouette Cameo vinyl cutter
T-shirt press
Sublimation printer
Regular ol’ printer
Sewing machine
Crochet yarn stash big enough to clothe a small village
Freshie supplies
Paints, canvases, markers, glue guns—you name it

Oh—and this is also where I record TikToks and photograph product shots. So yeah. If you ever wondered where the magic happens, it’s right here… buried under a pile of glitter and half-labeled shipping envelopes.

Why It Stays That Way

I’ve tried organizing it. I’ve bought the bins. I’ve labeled drawers. I even had a vision board moment where I thought I’d turn it into a Pinterest-worthy dream space. But between restocks, custom orders, content creation, and trying to remember if I already bought more pipettes (I did), it just never quite gets there.

The truth is, this room works hard. And because I work hard, this room ends up looking like a tornado of productivity on most days. Clean it all up? Sure. But by tomorrow, it’ll look like I never touched it.

And Honestly? I Kinda Love It

Do I cringe a little when I walk in and trip over a roll of shrink wrap? Yep. Do I dream of a giant, open studio with perfect lighting and fancy storage drawers? Of course. But this room is proof of everything I’ve built.

It’s not just the worst room. It’s the most real room. It holds my mess, my creativity, and every idea I’ve brought to life (even the weird ones I probably shouldn’t have tried to mold in the first place).

So Don’t Judge the Mess

Next time you see one of my wax melts, just know it came from a place that’s equal parts organized chaos and creative heart. And if you’ve got a room that looks more “lived in” than lovely? You’re in good company.

Tell me—what’s your worst room and why? Let’s make peace with the mess and celebrate the magic it hides.

July Horoscopes with a Side of Grits

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

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.

Signs You’re Not Just Tired, You’re Spiritually Exhausted

Posted on June 29, 2025June 29, 2025 by gigis ramblings

Image by Engin Akyurt from Pixabay

We all get tired—physically, mentally, emotionally. But there’s a different kind of tired that hits deeper. The kind that no nap, day off, or bubble bath can fix. If you’ve been feeling off lately and can’t quite put your finger on it, you may be spiritually exhausted.

This kind of burnout doesn’t just sneak up on you—it builds slowly, quietly, until one day, you feel completely disconnected from everything that once made you feel alive. Here’s how to tell if you’re not just tired… you’re soul-deep exhausted.

You Feel Disconnected from Everything

You’re surrounded by people, but you feel alone. Conversations feel shallow, and the things that used to bring you joy now just feel like items on a to-do list. Spiritual exhaustion can make the world feel like it’s moving around you, but you’re not really in it. You’re watching life happen instead of living it.

Motivation Has Left the Building

Tasks that used to be easy now feel overwhelming. Even getting out of bed can feel like climbing a mountain. You’re not lazy—you’re drained. When your spirit’s running on empty, motivation naturally fizzles out. It’s not about being unwilling, it’s about being unable to care.

You’re Emotionally Numb or Extra Sensitive

Some days you feel nothing. Other days you feel everything all at once. Small things either don’t affect you at all or make you completely unravel. That emotional imbalance is a sign your inner self is screaming for attention and rest.

You Crave Silence but Fear Stillness

You might avoid your own thoughts because being still makes you uncomfortable. At the same time, you’re desperate for silence because the noise of life feels too loud. It’s a paradox that makes you restless and uneasy, and it often shows up during spiritual depletion.

You Start Questioning Everything

Your purpose, your relationships, your path—nothing feels clear. It’s like the fog rolled in, and you can’t see more than a few feet ahead. You’re not just tired; you’re spiritually lost and craving some sort of sign to get back on track.

You’re Constantly Running on Empty

Even after a full night’s sleep, a weekend off, or a vacation, you still feel wiped out. That’s a big red flag. Your body’s rested, but your soul is still weary. No amount of physical rest can fix a soul that’s been neglected for too long.

You’ve Lost Your Sense of Joy and Wonder

Remember when the little things used to light you up? A sunrise, a good song, a deep conversation? If none of that moves you anymore, your spirit might be crying out for reconnection. Life hasn’t gotten dull—you’ve just lost your spark.

You’re Easily Irritated and Overwhelmed

Every little thing feels like too much. You find yourself snapping more often or shutting down altogether. This isn’t just stress—it’s the symptom of being completely drained. Your capacity is shot, and your spirit is waving the white flag.

You’ve Pulled Away from Spiritual Practices

If you used to pray, meditate, journal, or spend time in nature—and now you don’t—it might be because you’ve fallen out of alignment. When you’re spiritually exhausted, even the things that used to refuel you can feel pointless. But ironically, they’re what you need most.

How to Start Refilling Your Cup

The good news? You don’t have to stay stuck in this place. Start small. Step away from the noise. Sit with your feelings. Spend time with people who light you up. Revisit the things that once made you feel connected—even if just for five minutes. Get outside. Cry if you need to. Be honest about what’s not working in your life.

Most importantly, don’t ignore the signs. Your spirit matters just as much as your body and mind. When it’s run down, everything else eventually follows. You’re allowed to rest. You’re allowed to feel. And you’re allowed to come back stronger and more whole than ever.

If this hit a little close to home, you’re not alone. Spiritual exhaustion is real—but healing is, too. Start with compassion. Add in some space. The rest will come.

Life Hacks from a Southern Mama

Posted on June 3, 2025June 3, 2025 by gigis ramblings

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.

Hello June: Here’s What I’m Manifesting This Month

Posted on June 1, 2025June 1, 2025 by gigis ramblings

Image created with Canva Dream Lab

June has arrived with its sunny days, summer energy, and the perfect excuse to hit reset. For me, this month is all about clarity, confidence, and calling in the things I truly want. I believe that when you speak your goals out loud—and put action behind them—amazing things start to unfold. So here’s what I’m manifesting this month.

More Income, Aligned With My Purpose

Let’s start with the big one: more income. I’m not just talking about random cash flow. I’m calling in income that aligns with the work I love to do. The kind that feels good to earn. I’m setting clear intentions, staying consistent with my efforts, and leaving room for unexpected blessings.

June is the month I stop downplaying my worth. I’m showing up boldly, charging what I’m worth, and creating opportunities that feel aligned with who I am and where I’m headed.

More Sales, Especially the Soul-Aligned Kind

Next up on my manifestation list: more sales. Whether it’s through digital products, services, or physical goods, I’m welcoming an increase in conversions—without the hustle burnout. I’m leaning into marketing strategies that feel natural, personal, and honest.

This month, I’m showing up with value, speaking directly to my audience’s needs, and trusting that the right people will find their way to what I’m offering. I’m also setting daily sales goals and celebrating every single win—big or small.

Creative Flow That Doesn’t Quit

I’m manifesting inspired ideas that come with ease. No more staring at blank screens or second-guessing everything. June is about trusting my creative instincts and letting the words, designs, and projects flow naturally.

I’m carving out time to dream, brainstorm, and even just play—because sometimes the best work comes when I stop trying to force it.

Health That Feels Like Freedom

I want energy. I want clarity. I want to wake up feeling good in my body and mind. So I’m manifesting better health routines that stick—not because I “should” do them, but because they make me feel strong, balanced, and clear-headed.

This includes better sleep, movement I actually enjoy, and foods that fuel me without guilt or restriction. When I feel good physically, I show up better in every area of my life.

Connections That Uplift and Inspire

This month, I’m open to new friendships, stronger partnerships, and conversations that leave me feeling lighter and more connected. I’m manifesting deeper connections with people who get it—those who challenge me in the best ways and celebrate my growth.

Whether it’s in my personal life or my business circle, I’m calling in relationships that are honest, kind, and rooted in mutual respect.

Faith That Doesn’t Waver

Above all, I’m manifesting faith—the kind that doesn’t crumble when things take longer than I planned. I’m trusting that what’s meant for me is already in motion. That the goals I’ve written down, the dreams I’m working toward, and the life I’m building is already unfolding—even if I can’t see all the pieces yet.

June, I’m ready. I’m aligned, I’m focused, and I’m calling in everything with clarity and gratitude. Let’s do this.

My Brain at 2 AM vs My Brain at 2 PM

Posted on May 31, 2025June 1, 2025 by gigis ramblings

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