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

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

Kicking Off the Weekend

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

Craft Store Temptations

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

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

Creative Chaos

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

Sunday Reset Mode

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

Not Your Typical Sunday Dinner

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

Wrapping It Up

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

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

Back to Reality After a Much-Needed Getaway

Posted on September 14, 2025September 15, 2025 by gigis ramblings

desk covered with papers and a vaction picture

Image created with Canva AI

Coming home from vacation is always a little bittersweet. Yesterday we returned from South Padre Island, and while the memories are still fresh, reality is already knocking. The drive home took more than eight hours, and by the time we pulled into the driveway, exhaustion had completely taken over.

A Long Ride Back Home

The drive from South Padre felt never-ending. After hours on the road, we were drained and ready to collapse. To top it off, NASCAR moved the race to Saturday night, and the Canelo Alvarez vs. Bud Crawford fight was happening the same evening. Instead of unpacking or doing much of anything, we sank into the couch and let the night pass quietly.

Sunday Comforts at Home

This morning felt like the true reset. Santiago woke up ready for a home-cooked meal, and the grill was calling his name. He threw on steaks and jalapeño poppers while I cooked fresh green beans and red potatoes inside. There’s something grounding about sharing a simple meal together after days of restaurant food and road snacks. It reminded me of how comforting home can be.

The Struggle of Returning to Routine

As good as it feels to be home, reality always finds its way back in. I’ve already slipped into work mode, tackling tasks and easing back into my usual rhythm. Santiago, though, has been extra clingy these past few days, and I can tell his heart isn’t in returning to the grind. He misses working for himself, and it weighs on him every time vacation ends. Watching him struggle with that transition makes me wish things were different.

Holding On to Vacation Peace

Vacations remind us of the balance we crave. On SPI, we spent long hours by the beach and evenings wandering the dunes. Those quiet, simple moments gave us space to breathe and reconnect. Even though the trip is behind us now, those memories carry a calming energy we can take into our daily lives.

Finding Joy in the Everyday

Back to reality Sundays may not be exciting, but they offer a chance to reset. Grilling in the backyard, sitting down to a homemade meal, or even just resting on the couch watching football can bring that same sense of peace we find on vacation. While he heads back to work tomorrow and I continue with my own projects, we both know the next adventure will come soon enough.

Coming home isn’t always easy, but it makes the time away even more valuable.

Make Your TikTok Live Sell — Tools & Tips That Actually Work

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

Selling on TikTok Live is now a high-stakes game. Audiences scroll fast. Let them glance, buy, or move on. If you want your live sessions to capture attention and convert, you need more than just a product. You need a setup, style, and strategy that make people stop and stay. Here are key items and practices that will help—starting with one you already have: a wireless microphone.

1. Wireless Microphone — Crisp, Clean, Confidence

A good wireless mic gives you the freedom to move, gesticulate, and pick up your product without being tethered. Here’s what to look for and how to use it: freedom of movement so you can walk around and show details, sound quality that eliminates background noise and keeps your voice crisp, proper placement near your face or chest to avoid fabric scratching, and charged battery with solid connectivity to avoid dropouts.

2. Lighting — See the Product, See the Details

Even the best mic won’t help if viewers can’t see what you’re selling clearly. Use a ring light or soft panel light facing you so your face and product are lit evenly. Consider side fills to avoid shadows. Natural light can work too, but make sure it’s consistent and not overly harsh.

3. Stable & Clean Camera Setup

Keep your camera steady with a tripod or stand, and clean the lens before each stream. Use the rear camera if possible for sharper quality. Test zooms and filters ahead of time so you’re not fumbling during your live.

4. Good Background & Branding

Keep your backdrop uncluttered. A tidy background with branded props, shelves, or color themes helps focus attention on you and your product. Choose colors that contrast with what you’re selling so items pop on screen.

5. Engaging Presentation & Script (without sounding scripted)

Open with a hook to grab attention, then demonstrate instead of just describing. Share quick stories or comparisons that make products relatable. Prepare a loose script but leave room for audience questions so it feels natural.

6. Interactivity & CTA (Call to Action)

Ask your viewers questions, encourage comments, and use limited-time offers to drive urgency. Always be clear about how they can purchase and remind them during the stream.

7. Test Runs & Technical Rehearsals

Check your mic, camera, and lighting in advance. Do a private run or record yourself to see how you look and sound. Strong Wi-Fi or wired internet prevents buffering and keeps your live smooth.

8. Editing & Post-Live Optimization

Save your live videos and repurpose them into shorter clips for TikTok or other platforms. Add captions, highlight reels, and thumbnails to extend reach. Review your analytics to see what worked and where you lost viewers.

9. Mind Your Look & Energy

Dress in a way that represents your brand and boosts confidence. Keep your tone upbeat and your pacing clear. Audiences feed off your energy—if you’re excited about your product, they’ll feel it too.

Final Thoughts

In live selling, first impressions matter. The right wireless microphone can set the tone with professional audio and give you the freedom to move naturally. Combine that with solid lighting, a clean background, and interactive hosting, and you’ll have everything you need to stand out and turn viewers into buyers.

A Relaxing Weekend and My Homemade Lasagna Recipe

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

This weekend came and went in a blur, but it was exactly what we needed. We were up early both mornings, but instead of getting right to it, we stayed in bed until almost 11. That’s not something we usually do, and it made the weekend feel different in a good way.

Friday night we stayed up late making melts and incense with music going in the background. Nothing mind-blowing, just us hanging out and enjoying the time. Saturday was a lazy one—we got up, showered, and moved to the couch. Sometimes that’s all you need.

Today, I was in the kitchen. Santiago asked for homemade lasagna and banana pudding, so that’s what he got. I don’t make lasagna often because it takes some work, but when I do, it doesn’t last long. And no, I didn’t make the pudding from scratch—I’d already put in enough time on dinner.

I thought I would include the recipe for anybody interested. I should also mention: I use ground beef instead of sausage in my lasagna. I don’t eat pork, and the beef works just as well.

Homemade Beef Lasagna

Ingredients

1 pound ground beef
1 small onion, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 can (28 ounces) crushed tomatoes
2 tablespoons tomato paste
1 can (15 ounces) tomato sauce
2 teaspoons dried basil
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon sugar
Salt and pepper to taste
12 lasagna noodles
15 ounces ricotta cheese
1 large egg
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
3 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Directions

Preheat oven to 375°F.
Cook ground beef and onion in a skillet until browned. Drain any excess fat.
Add garlic, then stir in crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, tomato sauce, basil, oregano, sugar, salt, and pepper. Simmer 30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Boil noodles according to package directions. Drain.
Mix ricotta, egg, and Parmesan in a bowl.
Spread a thin layer of sauce in a 9×13 dish. Add noodles, half the ricotta mix, a cup of mozzarella, then sauce. Repeat layers, finishing with sauce and mozzarella.
Cover with foil and bake 25 minutes. Remove foil and bake 20 more until the top is bubbly and golden.
Let sit 10–15 minutes before serving.

Final Thoughts

The lasagna was the highlight of this slow weekend, and honestly, it’s one of those meals that’s even better the next day. It’s a bit of work, but worth it if you’re feeding a crowd—or just want leftovers that actually taste good.

The August Mood: Lazy But Strategic

Posted on August 11, 2025August 19, 2025 by gigis ramblings

Image by Lukas from Pixabay

August carries a certain energy. The days are still hot, the sun feels endless, and the calendar whispers that summer’s wrapping up. It’s that sweet spot where being productive matters, but taking it slow feels just as important. This is the lazy-but-strategic mood—where you recharge while setting up for what’s next.

Balancing Relaxation and Planning

The August mindset thrives on balance. Even when afternoons are slow and quiet, there’s a subtle focus on the bigger picture. Tasks get done, but without rushing. The pace is intentional, and the to-do list is approached with a mix of efficiency and ease.

Rather than pushing through every moment, August invites a softer approach. Small wins matter. A quick tidy-up here, a bit of prep there—these little efforts keep things moving without exhausting your energy.

Using the Heat to Your Advantage

The warm, lingering days can be a perfect excuse to slow down. Early mornings and cooler evenings become prime time for handling important work. The middle of the day? That’s reserved for lighter tasks or even a well-earned break.

By aligning your schedule with the weather, productivity feels less forced. You’re still getting things done, but the rhythm is easier, less demanding. It’s strategic energy conservation.

Decluttering Your Summer

August is an underrated month for clearing out the physical and mental clutter left behind by summer. Those items you bought for a trip but never used? Donate or store them. The random projects that kept getting pushed aside? Wrap them up now, so September starts fresh.

This isn’t about deep cleaning or massive overhauls—it’s about creating space. Even small changes help shift your mindset toward the months ahead.

Planning for the Transition to Fall

There’s a quiet advantage to prepping before September arrives. While everyone else scrambles once summer officially ends, you’ll already be ahead. This could mean revisiting your budget, mapping out work goals, or making small seasonal adjustments to your home.

By taking this slow and steady approach, fall’s busier pace won’t feel so overwhelming. You’ve laid the groundwork without feeling like you’ve been working nonstop.

Rest Without Guilt

The “lazy” part of the August mood is just as important as the “strategic” part. Rest is a tool, not a weakness. Allowing yourself a slower day, a nap, or an unplanned afternoon can boost creativity and focus later.

Instead of seeing downtime as lost time, it’s reframed as fuel. That shift in perspective makes rest feel purposeful rather than indulgent.

Setting Small, Intentional Goals

Big goals have their place, but August is ideal for micro-goals. These are the bite-sized actions that move you forward without draining your energy. For example, reading a few pages of a book instead of finishing a whole chapter. Making a single healthy meal instead of overhauling your entire diet.

These small, consistent steps add up. By September, you’ll notice you’re in a better position without ever feeling burned out.

The Takeaway

August is more than just the end of summer—it’s a bridge. It’s a time to honor the season’s slower pace while still preparing for what’s next. Lazy days and strategic moves can coexist beautifully.

By leaning into this balance, you allow yourself to enjoy the last stretch of summer while quietly setting the stage for success in the months ahead.

A Relaxed and Fun Weekend Recap

Posted on August 10, 2025August 19, 2025 by gigis ramblings

Image created with Canva AI

The weekend kicked off in the best possible way—the hubs got off work a couple of hours early on Friday. That bonus time was put to good use with a little shopping and a stop at one of our favorite local pizza restaurants. A table was claimed, slices were enjoyed, and the afternoon felt like the perfect start to a low-key couple of days.

Originally, a batch of incense was supposed to be made Friday night. Lately, making incense has been a hobby we’ve really gotten into. It’s relaxing, creative, and a little addictive. Unfortunately, shipping delays meant the supplies didn’t arrive in time, so that plan was pushed to Sunday. Instead, attention was turned to candle making. Fall candles were poured, and the excitement was real—three brand-new scents are ready to hit the site this week. The Fall lineup this year is looking like one of my best yet, with cozy fragrances like Pumpkin Creme Latte, Barnwood, Pumpkin Pie, and Spooky Cider Lane ready to make homes smell like the season we wait for all year.

Football, Grilling, and Lazy Saturdays

After a week that included hosting my older grandkids overnight on Wednesday and all day Thursday, I was ready for a quiet couple of days to recharge. I adore them, but they’re full of energy and allergic to sleep, so the house felt a little like a three-ring circus. Once they headed back home to get ready for school, I promised myself a slower pace for the weekend.

Saturday was dedicated to one thing—football. With the season officially underway, the TV was locked in, and the grill was fired up. Ribs and steaks filled the air with the kind of smell that makes you glad you live in Texas. It was one of those days where time passed slowly, the food was good, and conversations came easy.

Games were watched, snacks were enjoyed, and bedtime was ignored. There’s something about staying up too late on a Saturday night that just feels right, even when you know you’ll pay for it the next morning.

A Sunday Mix of Work and Play

Sunday brought more football, but also a little NASCAR for good measure. Between cheering for favorite teams and keeping an eye on the race, some house cleaning was worked in. The incense-making supplies had finally arrived—by drone, which was as cool as it sounds—so a fresh batch was made in the evening. The whole house smelled amazing as the sticks cured.

By the time the work was done, the couch was calling. A new-to-us series on Prime called Elkhorn was started. It follows Teddy Roosevelt, and so far, so good. Two episodes in, and it’s already a keeper. Anything historical instantly grabs my attention, but the fact that it’s about the West makes it even better.

The Little Things That Make a Weekend

Looking back, the weekend wasn’t packed with big events, but it was filled with things that made me happy. Early date nights, good food, football, and small creative projects created a rhythm that felt just right. Candles and incense are ready for the shop, the grill got its workout, and the couch saw plenty of action during game time.

Sometimes the best weekends aren’t the ones spent running around—they’re the ones where you settle in, enjoy the company you’re with, and let the hours pass without rushing them. This one definitely fit that description.

If You Feel Behind Right Now, Read This

Posted on August 7, 2025August 8, 2025 by gigis ramblings

Image by Tumisu from Pixabay

We’ve all been there. You wake up one morning and suddenly feel like everyone else has their life together—except you. Social media is showing everyone’s highlight reel, your to-do list is a mile long, and you feel like you’re drowning.

First off, you’re not alone. Second, you’re not as “behind” as you think.

Everyone’s Timeline Is Different

It’s easy to fall into the trap of comparing your life to someone else’s. But here’s the truth—there’s no universal timeline for success. Some people find their dream job at 25, others start a business at 50. Some meet their partner in high school, others at the grocery store while buying frozen pizza.

The pace of your life doesn’t make it less valuable. Your experiences, skills, and growth happen on your schedule, not anyone else’s.

Social Media Isn’t the Whole Story

Scrolling through endless photos of vacations, new houses, and career wins can make you feel like you’re missing out. But remember, you’re only seeing the curated version. Behind the scenes, those same people have challenges, setbacks, and late-night “what am I doing?” moments.

If you want to feel more grounded, try stepping away from constant scrolling for a bit. Focus on your own progress without the constant mental comparison.

Celebrate the Small Wins

One of the fastest ways to stop feeling behind is to acknowledge what you’ve already accomplished. Did you get out of bed even though you didn’t feel like it? That’s a win. Did you knock out a work task you’ve been avoiding? Another win.

Momentum builds from small victories. Each tiny step forward is proof that you’re moving—no matter how slow it feels.

Progress Doesn’t Have to Be Big

A lot of people get stuck thinking they need giant, life-changing moves to catch up. In reality, small, consistent actions add up faster than you think. Ten minutes of reading each day can turn into several books a year. Setting aside a little money each week can grow into a savings cushion.

Don’t underestimate the power of small steps—they can change your entire trajectory.

Focus on What You Can Control

Feeling behind often comes from obsessing over things you can’t change. Instead of replaying what you should have done, put your energy into what you can do next. You can’t go back and redo the past, but you can make one decision today that moves you forward.

Ask yourself: “What’s one thing I can do right now to make tomorrow easier?” Then do that thing.

Give Yourself Credit for Surviving Hard Seasons

Sometimes the fact that you’re still here is the biggest win of all. Life throws curveballs—health struggles, job losses, family emergencies—and getting through them takes strength.

If your energy has gone into simply holding things together, that doesn’t make you lazy or unmotivated. It makes you human.

Your Story Isn’t Over

No matter how far behind you feel, your next chapter hasn’t been written yet. Every single day is a chance to pivot, to learn, to create something new. You’re not stuck unless you decide to stay stuck.

So take a deep breath, give yourself some credit, and remember—you’re not racing anyone. You’re simply living your story at your own pace, and that’s exactly how it’s supposed to be.

How I Built a Business With Zero Outside Help

Posted on August 5, 2025August 6, 2025 by gigis ramblings

Building a business from scratch is no small thing—especially when you’re doing it completely on your own. No loans, no investors, no team—just your own two hands, a deep well of determination, and a stubborn streak that won’t quit. That’s exactly how I built Mama Crow’s, and let me tell you… it wasn’t fast or easy, but it was absolutely worth it.

A Lifelong Hustler at Heart

I’ve worked for myself most of my adult life. I’ve owned a few different businesses and worn just about every hat imaginable— hair stylist, bartender, web design, writing, blogging, marketing, customer service—you name it, I’ve done it. That work experience turned out to be the secret weapon I didn’t even know I had when I finally jumped into the wax melt world.

Years ago, I got a candle-making kit and loved it. But raising six wild, wonderful, and very active kids didn’t leave me much time for hobbies. Still, the interest stuck with me. Then in 2017, Santiago gifted me another kit for Christmas—and that was all she wrote. The spark reignited, and I knew this was something I wanted to turn into more than just a fun project.

From Candles to Wax Melts

I started with candles, learning everything I could while experimenting with different waxes, wicks, containers, and scents. But after digging into the business side of things, I realized wax melts made more sense. They were more cost-efficient, easier to ship, and had less liability than open flames and glass jars. They allowed me to focus on the creative part—making something beautiful and fragrant—without the added stress of insurance headaches and fire risks.

That pivot to wax melts wasn’t just smart—it was strategic. It gave me room to scale the business in a way that felt manageable and low-risk, especially since I was still juggling family life.

I Knew How to Build Things—So I Did

What made this business different from the ones I’d built before was how personal it felt. But I wasn’t walking in blind. I already knew how to build websites, write product descriptions, manage SEO, and create blog content. I’d been using SEO since the early days when keyword stuffing was still a thing (cringe, I know).

So when it came time to launch Mama Crow’s, I did it all myself. I didn’t need to hire out. I knew how to create branding, build a storefront, and talk to customers. All that previous experience suddenly came together like puzzle pieces falling into place.

No Help, No Excuses

Doing it solo doesn’t mean it was smooth sailing. I was still juggling life, grandkids, and everything in between. But I showed up every single day, even when I didn’t feel like it. I handled shipping, social media, customer service, and everything else with no outside help.

I made mistakes, but I learned fast. And the best part? I never had to compromise. Every decision—from the scents I offer to the way I talk to my customers—is 100% mine.

Final Thoughts for Anyone Starting Alone

If you’re thinking about starting something and don’t have support, it’s okay. You don’t need a big team or a pile of cash to get going. Use what you do have. Lean into your strengths, stay curious, and don’t be afraid to learn as you go.

You’re capable of more than you think—and if no one’s told you that today, let me be the one to say it.

How I Stay Grounded This Month

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

August always feels like the warm-up act before the main event. It’s not quite fall, but you can sense it coming—and for me, that brings a whole lot of excitement… and a little chaos if I’m not careful. Between gearing up for our annual vacation, preparing for a busy season in my business, and counting down to my favorite time of year, it’s easy to get swept up in the rush. That’s why I make a conscious effort to stay grounded all month long.

Antsy Energy and What I Do With It

I always get a little antsy in August. There’s a hum of anticipation in the air. Our vacation is right around the corner, and while I absolutely love getting away, prepping for it can be overwhelming. A week away from work and real life means I’ve got to plan ahead—not just packing, but making sure orders are done, blog posts are scheduled, and everything is squared away for when we’re gone.

To keep from spiraling, I’ve started turning that nervous energy into action. I make a running list of everything I need to handle before vacation—personal and business. Then, I break it down week by week so it’s not all sitting on my shoulders at once. It’s not a fancy system, just a notebook and a highlighter, but it works like a charm.

Creating Space to Breathe

One thing I’ve learned over the years is that staying grounded doesn’t mean you have to slow everything down—it just means you need to give yourself space to breathe. I build little pockets of calm into my day, especially in August when things start to feel stacked.

Some mornings, I’ll light one of my own wax melts, put on some music, and just sit for a few minutes before I dive into the day. It sounds small, but it reminds me why I do what I do—and it makes everything feel a little less rushed.

I also get outside as often as I can. Even if it’s just a walk around the block or sitting on the back porch with a cold drink, being in the fresh air always recenters me.

Grounding Myself Through Routine

Because this month gets so hectic, I stick to a strong daily routine. I wake up at 5 a.m., pack my husband’s lunch, and take him to work. That’s been our rhythm for the last year and keeping that going helps me feel balanced no matter what else is happening. After that, I get started on work early, which leaves a little breathing room later in the day for whatever August decides to throw at me.

I also go to bed earlier in August than I do in other months. I know what’s ahead—September is full of momentum, then the holidays roll in hard and fast. Rest now means energy later.

Why This Month Matters So Much

August isn’t just about getting ready for vacation. It also kicks off one of the most meaningful stretches of the year for me. My birthday and our anniversary both land in this season, and every year, I take a little time to reflect on what I’m grateful for. That helps ground me in a big way.

And then there’s fall. Y’all know how much I love it. The cooler weather, the decorations, the food, the family time—everything. August is the doorway to all of that. When I get overwhelmed, I remind myself that I’m walking toward my favorite time of the year. That little reminder is sometimes all I need to calm my nerves and stay focused on the moment.

Staying Present, Even When I’m Planning Ahead

It’s tempting to live in the future when you’ve got big plans coming up. But I’ve learned the hard way that if I don’t slow down and stay present, I miss the sweet little things happening right now. The summer sunsets, the slow Saturdays, the final pool days—they all matter, too.

So I keep myself grounded by soaking up these last bits of summer even as I prepare for what’s ahead. I savor the messy middle. I stay in the moment. And I remind myself: there’s no need to rush what’s coming. It’ll get here soon enough.

Behind the Scenes: What I Really Do All Day

Posted on August 1, 2025August 3, 2025 by gigis ramblings

Ever wonder what it really looks like to work for yourself from home? Spoiler alert: it ain’t always pretty, but it works for me. Here’s a peek behind the scenes at what I actually do all day—and how I keep everything running without losing my mind.

My Day Starts Before the Sun’s Up

Like clockwork, I’m up at 5:00 AM. First things first: I make my husband’s lunch and drive him to work. It’s our little ritual, and honestly, I wouldn’t have it any other way. By 6:00, I’m back home and jumping into the shower—sometimes with my favorite podcast, other times catching up with my go-to TikTok live host. That’s my way of easing into the day.

But I don’t jump straight into work. I let the early hours stay slow and simple on purpose.

The Fun Stuff Comes First

I don’t officially “start work” until after Santiago’s first break at 8:40 AM. We always chat for a few minutes—that call marks the true start of my workday. Before that, I use those quiet hours for all the lighter stuff:

Catching up on the news
Skimming through emails
Cleaning up the kitchen or tidying the house
Posting or scrolling through my business socials
Packing orders from Mama Crow’s

It’s work, but it’s the fun kind. The stuff that doesn’t feel like work at all. It helps me ease into the heavier tasks that come later.

The Real Hustle Kicks In

Once 9:00 hits, it’s time to dig into the real work. I’m blessed to be able to set my own hours, which gives me the freedom to work how I want—but that also means I have to keep myself in check.

I’ve got two regular clients I contract with, and I sometimes take on ad-hoc projects too. That means copywriting, editing, blog content, or whatever else they need. On top of that, I manage two of my own blogs, make and list new wax melt products for Mama Crow’s, and keep up with content across Facebook, Instagram, Threads, Snapchat, TikTok, and Pinterest.

Yep. It’s a lot.

Lunch Dates, Even From Afar

At 11:30, it’s time for a lunch break—but not just any lunch. We’ve got a standing phone lunch date every weekday, unless it’s Friday. On Fridays, I drive to town to bring him lunch in person. We’ll sit in the car, eat, and catch up like a real date—just one that happens in a parking lot. It might sound silly, but after nearly 16 years together, it’s still one of my favorite parts of the day.

Back to the Grind (Wherever I Am)

After lunch, I work until it’s time to go pick Santiago up from work. And yes, I’m usually working in the car while I wait. If something’s due or I’ve still got creative energy, I’ll even work a couple more hours in bed that evening.

I know it might sound like a lot, but I wouldn’t trade it for anything. I’m an introverted homebody, so staying in my own space while still getting everything done is a blessing.

Schedules Keep Me Sane

Living with OCD means I need structure, or else everything falls apart. I use Google Calendar to block off time for each client, blog, and Mama Crow’s tasks. If something pushes me off schedule, it’s like a domino effect—and I don’t like chaos.

That’s why I plan every part of my day, from order packing to TikTok posting. It keeps my head clear and my business running smooth.

Why It All Works for Me

Some folks think working from home means sleeping in and lounging around. Not in this house. My day is packed, but it’s built around my priorities—my marriage, my sanity, and my business. I get to choose what matters most, and no job will ever come before my relationship.

We stay in constant contact, we support each other, and we make time for the little things—like a five-minute phone call or lunch in a parking lot. It’s unconventional, but it works for us.

So yeah, that’s what I really do all day. It might not look glamorous, but it’s honest work, and it’s all mine.