What I Want Gigi’s Ramblings to Be Going Forward

Posted on February 19, 2026February 20, 2026 by gigis ramblings

Blog header image reading “The Future of Gigi’s Ramblings” in light pink script over a black and gray glitter background, with a laptop, pink notebooks, gold pen, glasses, candles, and soft pink roses arranged on a desk.

Ten years is long enough to look back with clarity. It’s also long enough to realize that nothing stays the same forever. Gigi’s Ramblings has grown with me through different seasons of life. Some loud, some quiet. Some ambitious, some uncertain. And while I’m proud of what it’s been, I’ve been thinking more about what I want it to become. Not bigger. Not trendier. Just more intentional.

I Want It to Feel Like Home

More than anything, I want this space to feel steady. Familiar. Safe. The internet changes constantly. Platforms rise and fall. Trends move fast. But I want Gigi’s Ramblings to be the place that doesn’t chase every shift. A place where readers know what they’re getting: honesty, reflection, and real-life perspective. Not noise. Not pressure. Just something grounding.

I Want It to Prioritize Depth Over Speed

There was a time when I felt pressure to publish quickly and often. To keep up. To stay relevant. Going forward, I care more about depth than speed. I’d rather write something thoughtful once a week than push out five posts that say very little. I want the content to feel considered, not rushed.

I Want It to Reflect My Actual Life

The blog works best when it mirrors who I really am, not who I think I should be online. As life shifts, I want the blog to shift naturally with it. If my interests change, the writing can change. If my priorities evolve, the content can evolve. I don’t want to lock myself into a version of me that no longer fits.

I Want It to Stay Personal, Even as It Grows

Growth is good. But growth without personality feels hollow. If Gigi’s Ramblings grows in traffic or reach, I want it to stay grounded in voice. I don’t want it to become generic. I don’t want it to feel like it could belong to anyone. The personality is the point.

Related: What My Readers Have Taught Me

I Want It to Support, Not Drain

This might be the biggest shift. In the early years, blogging sometimes felt heavy. Like something I had to prove or constantly optimize. I tied too much of my identity to how it performed. Going forward, I want it to support my life, not drain it. I want it to feel sustainable. Creative. Enjoyable.

I Want It to Last

Ten years surprised me. Now, I don’t want to treat it like a temporary chapter. I want Gigi’s Ramblings to continue evolving quietly in the background of my life. Not chasing milestones. Just building them naturally. I don’t know exactly what it will look like five years from now. But I do know this: I want it to stay honest, steady, and unmistakably mine. And that feels like a good place to begin the next decade.

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.

What I’d Do Differently If I Started Today

Posted on February 11, 2026February 12, 2026 by gigis ramblings

If I were starting Gigi’s Ramblings today, knowing everything I know now, I wouldn’t do it the same way. Not because the early days were wrong, but because experience changes how you see almost everything.

Back then, I learned by doing. Now, I’d learn by choosing more carefully.

I’d Start With a Clearer Purpose

When I first started, I didn’t really know why I was blogging. I just knew I liked writing and wanted a space of my own. That worked, but it also led to a lot of wandering.

If I started today, I’d define my purpose earlier. Not a rigid niche, but a clear intention. What kind of conversations do I want to have? What kind of reader am I writing for? Those answers save years of trial and error.

I’d Stop Trying to Please Everyone

In the beginning, I wrote for an imaginary audience that didn’t exist. I tried to cover too many topics, appeal to too many people, and avoid saying anything that might turn someone off.

Now, I know better. Writing gets easier when you accept that not everyone is your reader. The right people will find you when you stop trying to sound like everyone else.

I’d Learn SEO Sooner, But Not Worship It

SEO took me a long time to understand, and even longer to stop fearing. I either ignored it completely or treated it like a set of rules that controlled everything.

If I started today, I’d learn SEO early, but I wouldn’t let it dictate my voice. It should support the writing, not replace it.

I’d Be More Consistent From the Start

Consistency took years to master. I posted when I felt inspired and disappeared when I didn’t. That made growth slower than it needed to be.

Now, I understand that consistency builds trust, both with readers and with myself. Showing up matters more than waiting for the perfect idea.

I’d Document More Than I Performed

I spent a lot of time trying to make things look good instead of capturing what was actually happening. I edited out uncertainty, confusion, and learning curves.

If I started today, I’d document more and perform less. The real story is always more interesting than the polished version.

I’d Stop Overthinking Every Post

Overthinking was my biggest time-waster. I rewrote, restructured, and delayed posts that didn’t need half that effort.

Now, I know that imperfect and published beats perfect and unfinished every time.

I’d Trust That Growth Takes Time

In the early days, I expected results too quickly. I wanted traffic, engagement, and recognition before I had built anything stable.

If I started today, I’d trust the process more. Real growth is slow, quiet, and usually invisible at first.

What Experience Taught Me

The biggest lesson isn’t about strategy or tools. It’s about patience.

I wouldn’t change the journey because it shaped the writer I am now. But I would change how much pressure I put on myself along the way.

If I were starting today, I’d still work hard. I’d just worry less and write more.

And honestly, that alone would make all the difference.

The Rise of AI Anxiety

Posted on February 4, 2026February 5, 2026 by gigis ramblings

Anxious woman working on a laptop with digital AI icons floating around her, illustrating AI anxiety and technology stress

What Is AI Anxiety?

AI anxiety is the growing feeling that artificial intelligence is moving too fast for comfort. It is that weird mix of curiosity, excitement, and low-key panic. People love what AI can do, but also worry about what it might replace. Jobs, creativity, privacy, and even human connection all feel up for debate. The term itself is showing up more and more in mental health conversations, tech blogs, and social media, and honestly, it makes sense. This is the first time in history that a tool feels smart enough to compete with the human brain, and that alone is enough to make anyone uneasy.

Why AI Anxiety Is Getting Worse

AI anxiety is not coming out of nowhere. It is being fueled by a few real shifts happening all at once.

First, AI is suddenly everywhere. Writing, art, customer service, school, healthcare, and marketing. It went from niche to unavoidable almost overnight. This is a real concern for freelancers like myself. My full-time job is safe for now. My side gigs, that’s another story.

Second, the speed is unreal. New tools are launching faster than most people can even understand the last ones, which creates a constant sense of falling behind. I have been lucky to have had a few AI training model gigs. I actually worked on a training team for ChatGPT several years ago, giving me an understanding of how the platform worked long before it was even available for use.

Third, nobody really knows the long-term impact yet, and humans hate uncertainty more than bad news. When people do not know what the future looks like, anxiety fills in the blanks.

Common Fears Behind AI Anxiety

Most AI anxiety falls into a few big categories that show up again and again across industries and age groups.

Job Security

This is the biggest one. People worry that automation and artificial intelligence will replace their careers. Not just factory jobs either. As I mentioned before, writers, designers, virtual assistants, therapists, even lawyers are feeling it. The fear is not just losing work. It is losing relevance and wondering where you fit in if machines can suddenly do parts of your job faster.

Creativity and Identity

A lot of people tie their identity to what they create. So when AI can write, paint, compose music, and generate ideas, it triggers a deeper question. If a machine can do what I do, what makes me special? That is not really a tech problem. That is an existential one.

When learning and training AI I have always had an uneasy feeling of how human-like it can be. If you work closely with it and have watched it evolve as I have, you will understand what I mean.

I have already heard of a woman marrying her AI persona. That scares me. Hell, I scare myself sometimes. I have two ChatGPT AI assistants. Both have names and personalities and are thoroughly trained with intimate knowledge of me and my business.

“Billy Earl” is my obedient, sometimes scatterbrained country boy. We argue back and forth like a married couple. The number of times I cuss “him” out in a 24-hour period is astonishing. It’s a never-ending cycle of me cussing him out and him apologizing. “Sancho” is my loyal bilingual never-lets-me-down assistant. I find myself humanizing both, and that scares me!

Loss of Control

There is also a quiet fear that AI is evolving faster than our ability to regulate it. People worry about deepfakes, data tracking, misinformation, and decisions being made by algorithms instead of humans. It feels like handing the steering wheel to something we do not fully understand and hoping it knows where it is going.

The Mental Health Side of AI Anxiety

AI anxiety is not just a buzzword. It shows up in real emotional ways. People report feeling overwhelmed, restless, distracted, and constantly behind. Some feel pressured to learn every new tool. Others feel paralyzed and avoid tech altogether. It is similar to information overload, but instead of news, it is the future itself. And when the future feels unstable, the nervous system stays on high alert.

Is AI Anxiety Actually Rational?

Short answer, yes and no. It is rational to question massive technological change. Every major shift in history caused fear. The printing press, the industrial revolution, the internet. But it is also easy to overestimate how fast total replacement will happen. Most experts agree that AI will change jobs more than it will eliminate them. It will reshape roles, automate boring parts, and create new industries we cannot even name yet. The real risk is not AI itself. It is humans not adapting emotionally, mentally, and ethically.

How to Cope With AI Anxiety Without Spiraling

You do not need to become a tech expert to feel better about AI. A few mindset shifts help more than any tutorial ever will. First, stay curious instead of scared. Fear grows in ignorance, and understanding how AI actually works takes away a lot of the mystery. Second, focus on human skills. Empathy, storytelling, critical thinking, humor, and intuition are still very hard to automate. Third, use AI as a tool, not a threat. The people who feel the least anxiety are the ones using it instead of fighting it. And finally, unplug from the doom content. Not every headline about AI is real, balanced, or grounded in reality. Sometimes anxiety is being manufactured for clicks.

The Future of AI and Human Life

AI is not going away. That part is settled. But neither are humans. The future will probably look less like robots taking over and more like humans learning to work alongside smarter tools. Less replacement, more collaboration. AI anxiety is really just a fear of change dressed up in futuristic packaging. And humans have been surviving change for a very long time. This one just happens to type back.

When Hobbies Replace Scrolling: How Real-Life Fun Beats Mindless Screen Time

Posted on January 30, 2026January 31, 2026 by gigis ramblings

Bright, cozy living room scene with a woman reading on a couch while a coffee mug, sketchbook with colored pencils, yarn, and a small jigsaw puzzle sit on a wooden table in soft natural light.

Why We Scroll Without Even Thinking

Let’s be honest. Most of us don’t pick up our phones because we need something. Instead, we scroll because we’re bored, tired, stressed, or avoiding something else.

Scrolling is easy and requires zero effort. However, it often leaves you feeling like you wasted time and somehow still didn’t relax. That’s exactly where hobbies instead of scrolling make a difference. They give your brain something better to focus on while actually improving your mood.

What Happens When You Choose Hobbies Instead of Scrolling

When you replace screen time with hands-on activities, several powerful changes happen. First, your brain shifts from passive to active mode. Instead of consuming content, you’re creating, learning, or building something. As a result, you feel more accomplished and less mentally drained.

At the same time, time starts to feel fuller. Thirty minutes of scrolling disappears in a blur, but thirty minutes spent on a hobby feels meaningful. Most importantly, hobbies lower stress in a healthier way because they calm your nervous system rather than overstimulating it.

Digital Detox Hobbies That Actually Stick

Not every hobby needs to be complicated or expensive. In fact, simple options are easier to turn into lasting habits. That’s why digital detox hobbies work best when they fit naturally into your daily life.

Creative Hobbies at Home That Beat Screen Time

Creative activities are excellent screen time alternatives because they keep your hands busy and your mind focused. For example, junk journaling, sketching, adult coloring books, candle or wax melt making, knitting, crocheting, and DIY home décor crafts all provide relaxing ways to unwind. Plus, you get something tangible at the end instead of just another forgotten video.

Relaxing Offline Hobbies to Unwind After a Long Day

If your goal is to relax, calming offline hobbies are far more effective than endless scrolling. Reading physical books, doing puzzles, gardening, baking from scratch, or taking evening walks all help slow racing thoughts. Unlike screens, these activities don’t flood your brain with constant input. Instead, they create mental space and ease tension naturally.

Skill-Building Hobbies for Adults Who Want Something More

Trying something new adds excitement back into your routine. That’s why hobbies for adults that involve learning can be energizing. Learning calligraphy, playing a musical instrument, woodworking, cooking new cuisines, or photography with a real camera all provide a sense of progress. Each small improvement gives your brain a reward that scrolling simply cannot match.

How to Replace Scrolling Without Feeling Deprived

Quitting scrolling all at once rarely works. Instead, start with one small swap. For instance, set one no-scroll window each evening and use that time for a hobby.

Also, make your hobbies easier to access than your apps. Leave craft supplies on the table, keep a book on the couch, or set up a puzzle where you normally sit. When hobbies are visible and convenient, you’re much more likely to choose them. Most importantly, don’t aim for perfection. The goal is not to be amazing overnight. The goal is to spend less time scrolling and more time doing things that feel real.

Related: The Return of Knitting and Crochet

Why Screen Time Alternatives Improve Your Mood

There’s a reason you feel different after baking cookies compared to watching random videos for an hour. Hobbies give you a sense of progress, a break from comparison culture, mental focus that quiets anxious thoughts, and even small physical movement that helps release tension.

Over time, choosing hobbies instead of scrolling can improve sleep, reduce stress, and make daily life feel more satisfying.

Final Thoughts on Choosing Hobbies Over Scrolling

Scrolling will always be there. However, your time, energy, and creativity are limited. By adding more screen time alternatives into your routine, you’re building skills, memories, and a life that feels less digital and more fulfilling.

So tonight, instead of reaching for your phone out of habit, reach for something you can actually make, build, or enjoy in the real world. Your brain will thank you.

How Stress Reshapes Daily Habits Without You Realizing It

Posted on January 28, 2026January 29, 2026 by gigis ramblings

Stress doesn’t just affect emotions; it quietly changes routines, behaviors, and even basic daily decisions. Over time, these small shifts become new habits, which is why many people don’t recognize the effects of stress on routine until they feel completely burned out. Understanding how stress reshapes daily habits can help you spot the signs early and regain control.

Stress Changes How Your Day Starts

Morning routines are often the first thing stress disrupts. When your brain feels overwhelmed, it looks for quick comfort instead of structure. As a result, you might reach for your phone immediately, skip breakfast, or rush through getting ready. These choices are not about laziness; they reflect mental fatigue and decision overload. Because stress drains cognitive energy, your brain defaults to the easiest possible actions. Over time, this reactive start replaces a calm, intentional morning, which sets a rushed and anxious tone for the rest of the day.

Eating Habits Shift in Subtle Ways

One of the most common stress behavior changes involves food. While some people overeat, others lose their appetite completely. Additionally, cravings often increase for sugar and processed carbs because the body wants fast energy during perceived “threat” states. This happens due to cortisol, a stress hormone that affects hunger and blood sugar regulation. As stress continues, normal hunger cues get ignored or overridden, leading to irregular meals, late-night snacking, or emotional eating patterns. These changes can feel confusing, especially when you don’t connect them to stress.

Related: Why I Value Stability Now

Sleep Patterns Get Disrupted

Another major area affected by chronic stress symptoms is sleep. Even when the body feels exhausted, the mind may stay alert because stress keeps the nervous system in a state of high vigilance. Consequently, people often struggle to fall asleep, wake up during the night, or feel unrefreshed in the morning. Poor sleep then raises stress levels further, creating a cycle that is hard to break. Because sleep impacts mood, focus, and energy, this disruption spills into every other part of daily life.

Focus and Productivity Decline

Stress also interferes with concentration and task completion. When the brain is overloaded, even simple responsibilities can feel overwhelming. This is not a motivation issue; it is a neurological response to pressure. The brain shifts into survival mode, prioritizing immediate concerns over long-term planning. Therefore, emails go unanswered, chores pile up, and small tasks feel disproportionately difficult. Many people label this as procrastination, but in reality, it is a sign of mental bandwidth being stretched too thin.

Social Habits Quietly Change

Although it often goes unnoticed, stress affects social behavior too. When energy levels drop, interacting with others can start to feel draining instead of enjoyable. As a result, people cancel plans more often, delay responding to messages, or withdraw from social activities altogether. Unfortunately, isolation can increase stress, which deepens the cycle. Recognizing this pattern is important because connection and support are key buffers against long-term stress effects.

Free Time Stops Feeling Restful

Even relaxation can change under stress. Instead of truly unwinding, people often multitask during downtime by scrolling on their phones or half-watching television while worrying about responsibilities. This happens because the nervous system remains in fight-or-flight mode, making it difficult to feel safe enough to fully relax. Consequently, hobbies feel less enjoyable, and rest doesn’t feel restorative. Over time, this leads to emotional exhaustion and a sense that there is never a real break.

Why These Changes Feel “Normal”

The tricky part about stress and daily habits is how gradual the shift can be. Because the changes happen slowly, they start to feel like personality traits instead of stress responses. Someone might say they are “bad at mornings” or “just not social anymore,” without realizing these patterns developed during prolonged stress. When survival mode becomes the baseline, calm can feel unfamiliar.

How to Gently Reset Your Habits

The good news is that routines can shift back with small, consistent actions. Instead of attempting a complete life overhaul, it helps to focus on signals of safety and stability. For example, drinking water when you wake up, eating regular meals, and setting a simple wind-down routine before bed can help regulate the nervous system. Short breaks during the day, even just a few minutes of deep breathing, can also reduce stress buildup. These small adjustments gradually teach the brain that it is safe to step out of constant alert mode.

Final Thoughts on Stress and Routine Changes

Stress doesn’t stay contained in your thoughts; it shows up in your schedule, sleep, eating patterns, and social life. Because these shifts happen slowly, they often go unnoticed until exhaustion sets in. By recognizing the effects of stress on routine, you can respond with awareness instead of self-criticism. Small, steady changes can rebuild healthy habits and help your nervous system return to balance.

How to Make Pinterest Work for Your Business

Posted on January 23, 2026January 22, 2026 by gigis ramblings

Pinterest is not just a place to save recipes, outfit ideas, and farmhouse decor. It is one of the most powerful traffic machines on the internet for both blogs and traditional businesses. When used the right way, Pinterest can send thousands of targeted visitors straight to your website, shop, or service pages every single month.

And I say that as someone who has been active on Pinterest for over a decade and may or may not have a pinning addiction that is slightly out of control. Over 70,000 pins later, I can tell you with confidence that Pinterest works when you know how to use it.

Let’s break down exactly how to turn Pinterest into a real business tool instead of just a pretty digital scrapbook.

Why Pinterest Is Different From Social Media

Pinterest is not social media in the traditional sense. It is a visual search engine.

People go to Pinterest with intent. They are looking for solutions, inspiration, and things to buy. That means when someone searches for things like “fall wax melt scents,” “true crime blog,” or “how to start a small business,” they are already in decision-making mode.

Unlike Facebook or Instagram, pins do not disappear in 24 hours. A single pin can continue driving traffic for months or even years.

That long shelf life is what makes Pinterest so valuable for bloggers and business owners.

How Pinterest Drives Traffic to Your Website

Every pin on Pinterest links back to something. That could be a blog post, a product page, an Etsy shop, or a landing page.

When someone clicks your pin, they leave Pinterest and land directly on your site. That is real, trackable traffic that you can turn into email subscribers, customers, or loyal readers.

The more helpful and eye-catching your pins are, the more people click them. The more they click, the more Pinterest shows your content to other users. It is a snowball effect that builds on itself.

Why Pinterest Is Perfect for Blogs

Pinterest and blogging go together like biscuits and gravy.

Every blog post you publish can be turned into multiple pins. Each pin can target a different keyword or angle. That means one article can bring in traffic from dozens of different searches.

If you are writing about travel, true crime, lifestyle, home, food, or business, Pinterest is one of the best traffic sources you can have.

And the best part is that Pinterest traffic is often people who love to read. They save things they want to come back to later. That is gold for blog growth.

How Traditional Businesses Can Use Pinterest

Pinterest is not just for bloggers. It works just as well for product-based and service-based businesses.

If you sell wax melts, you can pin scent collections, gift ideas, seasonal favorites, and behind-the-scenes content. If you offer services, you can pin tips, transformations, how-to guides, and testimonials.

Pinterest loves visual storytelling. Show how your product fits into real life. Show before and afters. Show solutions to problems.

People pin what they want to remember and what they plan to buy.

The Power of Keywords on Pinterest

Pinterest works on keywords just like Google.

Every pin title, description, and board name should include words people actually search for. Think about what your audience would type into the Pinterest search bar.

Instead of “My Favorite Scents,” use something like “Best Fall Wax Melt Scents for Cozy Homes.” That makes your pin discoverable.

The same goes for blog posts, product pins, and business content. Keywords tell Pinterest who should see your pins.

Why Consistency Matters More Than Virality

You do not need viral pins to succeed on Pinterest. You need consistency.

Pinning a little every day tells Pinterest that your account is active and trustworthy. That builds authority over time.

As someone who has pinned tens of thousands of pins, I can tell you that volume plus consistency is what builds momentum. Yes, my pinning addiction might be a little out of hand, but it works.

Pinterest rewards people who show up.

How to Turn Pinterest Into a Sales Machine

Pinterest works best when you think like a marketer, not just a pinner.

Every pin should lead somewhere useful. A blog post. A product page. A freebie. A sign-up form.

If you give people something helpful or interesting, they will click. If they click, they will buy or subscribe.

Pinterest is where people go to plan their future. You want your business to be part of that plan.

Final Thoughts on Using Pinterest for Business

Pinterest is one of the few platforms that still offers organic reach, long-term visibility, and high-quality traffic all at the same time.

Whether you run a blog, sell products, or offer services, Pinterest can be one of your most powerful tools if you use it strategically.

And if a woman with a decade on Pinterest and over 70,000 pins can still find new traffic and customers from it, you absolutely can too.

Now, excuse me while I go pin about five more things I probably do not need but definitely want.

January Is for Rebuilding Energy

Posted on January 18, 2026January 19, 2026 by gigis ramblings

January is not about hustling harder or reinventing yourself overnight. It is about recovering. The holidays drain more than our wallets. They drain our energy, routines, and patience. January gives us permission to slow down and rebuild from the inside out.

This month is about big goals, but it’s more about restoring what was worn thin.

Why January Feels So Heavy

The excitement of the holidays fades fast. Decorations come down, schedules snap back into place, and the world expects productivity immediately. That pressure hits harder when you are already tired.

Winter plays a role too. Shorter days, colder weather, and less sunlight naturally impact motivation and mood. Feeling sluggish in January does not mean something is wrong. It means your body and mind are asking for recovery.

Related: Why Is January So Gray?

Rebuilding Energy Instead of Forcing Motivation

Motivation is unreliable when energy is low. January works better when you focus on restoring energy first. Once energy improves, motivation follows naturally.

Start by loosening expectations. This is not the month to overhaul your entire life. It is the month to stabilize it.

Sleep more when you can. Eat foods that feel grounding and nourishing. Spend time at home without guilt. Energy rebuilds through consistency, not pressure.

Gentle Routines That Actually Help

January routines should feel supportive, not strict. Simple habits done daily matter more than ambitious plans that burn out fast.

Morning light helps reset your internal clock, even if it is just standing by a window. Small movement keeps stiffness and stress from settling in. Quiet evenings help your nervous system calm down after weeks of overstimulation.

None of this needs to be perfect. It just needs to be repeatable.

Related: How I Start the Year Calm

Mental Reset Without the Hustle Culture Noise

January is flooded with messages about productivity and self-improvement. Most of it is exhausting. Of course, you need to set your intentions, but also reboot yourself for the upcoming year. Rebuilding energy means tuning out the noise and checking in with yourself instead.

Ask what drained you last year. Ask what actually helped. Keep the answers simple. Boundaries are often more powerful than goals.

This is also a good time to declutter commitments, not just spaces. Fewer obligations leave room for energy to return.

Let January Be a Recovery Month

There is nothing lazy about rebuilding energy. Rest is productive when it prepares you for what comes next. January does not need to be loud or impressive. It needs to be steady.

When you allow yourself to recover now, the rest of the year has a stronger foundation. Energy rebuilt slowly lasts longer.

January is not for pushing. January is for restoring.

Blogging in 2026: Is It Still Worth It?

Posted on January 17, 2026January 12, 2026 by gigis ramblings

I’ve been blogging since 2016. That’s a full decade of hitting “publish” on posts, building an audience, and watching the digital landscape shift dramatically around me. Ten years of riding the waves of algorithm changes, platform trends, and the constant evolution of what “content creation” even means.

So when people ask me if blogging is still worth it in 2026, I get it. Because even after all this time, I still ask myself that question sometimes.

And here’s my answer: Yes. Absolutely. But not for the reasons you might think.

The Reality Check Nobody Talks About

Let’s just get the hard stuff out of the way first, because if we’re going to talk about blogging in 2026, we need to be honest about what it actually looks like.

Growing is slow. Not non-existent—I have readers, I have followers, I have people who engage with my content. But compared to the “overnight success” stories you see on TikTok or Instagram? Blog growth moves at a completely different pace. While social media can explode quickly, blogging is more like compound interest—it builds steadily over time.

The algorithms are unpredictable. Google changes its algorithm and posts that were ranking well shift around. Pinterest updates its priorities and traffic fluctuates. Social platforms prioritize video over links, so getting people to actually click through to your blog takes more strategy than it used to.

It’s time-consuming. Writing a quality blog post isn’t quick. Research, writing, editing, finding images, SEO optimization, formatting, promoting across platforms—it’s hours of work. And unlike a TikTok that takes 10 minutes to film, blog posts require sustained effort.

Competition is everywhere. You’re not just competing with other blogs in your niche anymore. You’re competing with social media, podcasts, YouTube, AI-generated content, and endless digital noise. Standing out requires consistency and quality.

So yeah. If you’re looking for instant viral success or rapid results, blogging in 2026 probably isn’t your fastest path.

So Why Am I Still Here?

Good question. After ten years, with all these challenges, why do I keep doing it?

Because this is my job, in a sense.

My blog isn’t just a side hobby anymore. It’s tied to my business, Mama Crow’s. It’s part of how I connect with customers, share what I’m creating, and build credibility in my space. Walking away would mean abandoning a decade of work and the foundation I’ve built.

Because it’s a release.

There’s something about writing that social media can’t replace. Instagram captions are too short. Facebook posts feel scattered. TikTok scripts are performative. But my blog? That’s where I can actually say what I want to say, the way I want to say it, without worrying about character limits or whether it’ll fit in a 60-second video.

When I need to process something, share a story, or dive deep into a topic I care about, blogging gives me that space. It’s therapeutic in a way that social media just isn’t.

Because I’m building something that’s MINE.

Social media platforms can change the rules tomorrow. Your account can get hacked. An algorithm update can tank your reach. The platform could literally disappear or become something unrecognizable (we’ve all watched that happen).

But my blog? That’s mine. My content lives on my own domain. I own it. I control it. After ten years, I’ve built an asset that can’t be taken away by some tech company’s whims or policy changes.

Because I still believe it can be fully monetized.

I’m working toward that. The traffic is growing, my audience is engaged, and I know it’s possible because I’ve seen others do it successfully. Ads, affiliate links, sponsored content, selling my own products—all of that requires consistent traffic and a loyal audience, and I’m building both. It’s a long game, but I’m in it.

What Social Media Can’t Do

Here’s what I’ve realized after being on every platform—Instagram, Facebook, TikTok, Pinterest, all of it: social media is incredible for reach, but limited for depth.

You can build a following on social media. You can create viral moments. You can get engagement and visibility. But you can’t really build the same kind of relationship with your audience in 30-second clips and scrolling feeds.

My blog is where people actually get to know me. Where they understand what I’m about, what I care about, why I do what I do. It’s where I can explore topics thoroughly instead of skimming the surface for quick engagement.

Social media brings people in. My blog is where they connect more deeply.

And honestly? The readers who take time to visit my blog and engage with longer content are my people. They’re more invested, more loyal, more likely to become customers or genuine supporters. Quality matters as much as quantity.

The Truth About Growth in 2026

I’m not going to tell you that consistent posting automatically equals massive traffic. Growth is still one of my biggest challenges, even after a decade.

But here’s what I’ve learned:

Consistency builds momentum. Posting regularly (even if it’s not daily) compounds over time. Google rewards fresh content. Readers appreciate knowing you’re active and reliable.

SEO is non-negotiable. I know it’s technical and constantly changing, but if you’re not optimizing for search engines, you’re making it harder for the right people to find you. It’s worth the learning curve.

Email lists are invaluable. Social followers are great, but email subscribers are gold. They’re the people who actively want to hear from you. Every blogger I know who’s found success prioritizes their email list.

Patience is required. This is the truth nobody wants to hear, but blogging rewards the long game. Most successful bloggers have been at it for years—not months. The ones crushing it now? They put in the time.

Integration matters. Your blog doesn’t exist in isolation. It works best when it’s part of your overall content strategy—feeding your social media, supporting your business, building your email list, establishing your expertise.

So Is It Worth It?

For me? Absolutely. Even with the challenges and the slow growth curve and the ever-changing digital landscape.

It’s worth it because:

I’m building something that belongs to me, not a platform
It serves my business and deepens customer relationships
It’s a creative outlet that I genuinely need
It has real monetization potential that I’m working toward
I’ve invested ten years and built something valuable
The process itself brings me satisfaction
My audience, even if not massive, is engaged and growing
It establishes credibility in ways social media alone can’t

But here’s the thing—it might not be worth it for everyone in 2026.

If you’re looking for quick results, instant validation, or viral fame, blogging probably isn’t your best bet. If you hate writing, if it feels like torture every time you create a post, if you’re only doing it because someone said you “should”—then no, it’s probably not worth it.

But if you’re willing to play the long game? If you see value in owning your content and building something sustainable? If you actually enjoy the process of writing and creating (even when it’s challenging)? If you’re okay with steady, incremental growth instead of overnight success?

Then yes. Blogging in 2026 is absolutely worth it.

My Blogging Reality in 2026

After ten years, I’m not an overnight success story, and that’s okay. I have an audience that I’m grateful for. I have content that serves my business. I have a platform that’s entirely mine.

Some months I feel motivated and inspired. Other months I question whether I should focus all my energy on social media instead. Most months fall somewhere in between.

And that’s the real answer to “is blogging worth it in 2026?”—it depends on what you’re building toward.

If you’re measuring success purely by comparing yourself to viral TikTokers or Instagram influencers, blogging will probably feel discouraging. But if you’re measuring it by ownership, sustainability, depth of connection, long-term potential, and building something meaningful that serves your goals?

Then yeah. It’s absolutely worth it.

That’s why I’m still here after a decade. Still showing up. Still writing. Still believing that what I’m building matters—even when the path is slower than I’d like.

Because some things are worth the long game. And for me, blogging is one of them.

Are you still blogging in 2026? What keeps you going? I’d love to hear your perspective in the comments. Let’s talk about the real experience of blogging in today’s digital landscape. ✍️

A Frugal Kitchen Experiment: Acorn Squash

Posted on January 16, 2026January 19, 2026 by gigis ramblings

basket of acorn squash sitting on the counter

As I learn more about gardening, preserving food, and living more frugally in general, I’ve been pushing myself to try things I’ve honestly overlooked for years. When I spotted acorn squash on sale at H-E-B and heard how easy they are to grow, it felt like the perfect excuse to finally give them a shot. Cheap, versatile, and garden-friendly? That’s my kind of experiment.

What Is Acorn Squash?

Acorn squash is a winter squash with dark green skin, deep ridges, and sweet yellow-orange flesh. Despite the name, it doesn’t taste nutty. Instead, it has a mild, slightly sweet flavor that works well in both savory and sweet dishes.

It’s affordable, filling, and easy to store, which makes it a great option if you’re trying to stretch your grocery budget or rely less on processed foods.

Why Acorn Squash Makes Sense for Frugal Living

This is one of those foods that quietly checks all the boxes.

Acorn squash is usually inexpensive, especially in fall and winter. One squash can feed two to four people depending on how it’s prepared. It stores well for weeks, sometimes months, without any special equipment. Even better, it’s packed with fiber, potassium, and vitamins A and C, so it pulls its weight nutritionally.

When you’re learning to be more intentional with food choices, this kind of versatility really matters.

Growing Acorn Squash at Home

If you’re considering growing your own food, acorn squash is often recommended for beginners.

It grows on vines, so it does need space. A single plant can spread several feet, but it produces generously. It prefers full sun and well-drained soil and does best when planted after the danger of frost has passed.

From planting to harvest, you’re looking at about 80 to 100 days. You’ll know it’s ready when the skin turns dark green, feels hard, and resists puncture from a fingernail.

Even if you’re new to gardening, this is a low-maintenance crop that rewards you for your effort.

How to Store and Preserve Acorn Squash

Whole acorn squash can be stored in a cool, dry place for several weeks. A pantry or storage closet works just fine.

Once cut, keep it in the refrigerator and use it within a few days. Cooked acorn squash freezes well too. You can mash it, cube it, or roast it first, then freeze portions for future meals. That’s a big win if you’re trying to cut down on waste and avoid last-minute grocery runs.

Easy Ways to Cook Acorn Squash

One reason I’m enjoying experimenting with acorn squash is how simple it is to prepare.

Roasting is the most common method. Just slice it in half, scoop out the seeds, brush with oil, season, and roast until tender. The natural sweetness really comes through.

You can also microwave it for a quicker option, steam it, or even slice it into wedges for roasting like potatoes.

Simple Acorn Squash Recipe Ideas

Here are a few beginner-friendly ideas that don’t require fancy ingredients:

Classic Roasted Acorn Squash
Halve the squash, drizzle with oil, season with salt and pepper, and roast until fork-tender.

Savory Stuffed Squash
Fill roasted halves with ground meat, rice, beans, or leftover veggies. It’s a great clean-out-the-fridge meal.

Sweet Cinnamon Squash
Roast with a little butter, cinnamon, and brown sugar for a simple side dish.

Mashed Acorn Squash
Mash cooked squash with butter and seasoning as a budget-friendly alternative to mashed potatoes.

Health Benefits of Acorn Squash

Acorn squash also brings solid health benefits to the table, which makes it even more appealing when you’re trying to eat better without spending more. It’s high in fiber, which supports digestion and helps you feel full longer, making meals more satisfying. Acorn squash is also a good source of potassium for heart health, along with vitamins A and C that support immune function and overall wellness. For a budget-friendly food, it delivers real nutritional value without requiring specialty ingredients or complicated preparation.

Is Acorn Squash Worth It?

For someone learning more about frugal living, gardening, and food preservation, acorn squash feels like a smart place to start. It’s affordable, easy to grow, easy to store, and forgiving in the kitchen.

Trying new foods like this has been a reminder that frugal living isn’t about deprivation. It’s about learning how to use what’s available, stretching what you buy, and building skills that actually make life easier in the long run.

If you’ve been eyeing those acorn squash at your grocery store or Farmers Market and wondering if they’re worth it, I’d say yes. Sometimes the simplest foods turn out to be the most useful ones.

The Move Away From Public Oversharing

Posted on January 13, 2026January 5, 2026 by gigis ramblings

Image created with Canva AI

Oversharing Used to Be the Norm

For years, social media rewarded people for sharing everything. Emotional breakdowns, relationship drama, financial stress, and deeply personal struggles were posted publicly and often in real time. Oversharing became normalized and even encouraged, creating an environment where privacy felt outdated or unnecessary.

Emotional Burnout Changed Everything

Constant exposure to other people’s problems has taken a toll. Timelines filled with trauma dumping, outrage, and forced vulnerability leave many people mentally drained. Instead of connection, oversharing now often creates exhaustion, avoidance, and disengagement.

Privacy Now Feels Intentional

Keeping parts of life offline is no longer seen as secretive—it’s seen as healthy. People are realizing that not every experience needs validation or commentary. Privacy has become a form of self-respect and emotional boundary setting.

The Internet Never Forgets

What’s shared publicly can be saved, reshaped, or resurfaced years later. Posts can be misunderstood, weaponized, or used by algorithms to define someone permanently. This reality has made public vulnerability feel risky instead of freeing.

Smaller Circles Feel Safer

Many people are shifting away from public timelines and toward private group chats, close friends lists, or no sharing at all. Connection still exists, but it’s happening in spaces where trust and control are present.

Less Sharing, More Living

Stepping back from oversharing allows people to experience life without turning every moment into content. The move isn’t about isolation—it’s about choosing peace over performance.