A Quiet Day That Didn’t Feel Quiet at All

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

Photo courtesy: Jessica Silcox

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

The Hill Country Is on My Mind

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

I See My Grandgirls in Their Faces

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

Just a Few Months Ago…

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

A Day of Grief and Prayer

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

I Won’t Forget

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

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.

Texas BBQ Road Trip: Where to Eat in July

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

Image by Tim Mossholder from Pixabay

If you’re like me, the smell of smoke and sizzle is basically perfume. July in Texas means it’s hotter than a goat’s butt in a pepper patch—but it’s also the perfect time for a good old-fashioned BBQ road trip. From brisket that melts in your mouth to ribs so tender they fall apart when you blink, this list will steer you to some of the tastiest pits across the Lone Star State.

Lockhart – The Barbecue Capital of Texas

No Texas BBQ road trip is complete without a stop in Lockhart. This tiny town packs a meaty punch with legendary joints like Kreuz Market, Black’s Barbecue, and Smitty’s Market. They’ve been slinging brisket and sausage links for generations. Each spot has its own vibe, but the smoke ring and flavor stay strong across the board.

Austin – Big City, Bigger Flavors

Austin isn’t just the state capital—it’s a BBQ heavyweight. Franklin Barbecue is world-famous, and yes, the lines are long, but that brisket? Worth it. Don’t skip out on Micklethwait Craft Meats for creative sausage blends or Leroy and Lewis for something a little experimental with bold, smoky flavor.

Taylor – Where Brisket Dreams Come True

Louie Mueller Barbecue is the crown jewel of Taylor. The pit-stained walls tell a story of decades of slow-smoked perfection. If you’re after that pepper-crusted bark and juicy inside, this is your holy ground. Get there early—they run out.

Luling – Watermelon and Meaty Goodness

You might know Luling for its watermelon festival, but the real treat is City Market. Order at the counter straight from the pitmasters behind the glass, and take your tray into the dining room where meat comes on butcher paper and nothing gets between you and that smoky flavor.

Llano – Home of the Big Chop

Head on out to Llano and make a stop at Cooper’s Old Time Pit Bar-B-Que. This place is legendary for its “Big Chop,” a thick, juicy pork chop smoked to perfection. You pick your meat straight off the pit, and it gets dipped in their signature mop sauce before it even hits your tray. Sit at one of the long picnic tables, roll up your sleeves, and dig in. It’s BBQ the old-school Texas way, and worth every mile of the drive.

Houston – Hidden Gems in the Bayou City

Houston’s BBQ scene is exploding with flavor. Truth BBQ is one of the standouts—don’t skip the sides. And if you’re craving some classic Southern charm with your smoke, check out The Pit Room or Pinkerton’s Barbecue. You’ll find yourself licking your fingers before the plate’s halfway done.

San Antonio – South Texas Flavors

You know I gotta give a nod to San Antonio. 2M Smokehouse blends Mexican flavors with Texas tradition in a way that hits you right in the taste buds. Tender brisket, creamy mac, homemade pickles—this spot brings the heat and the heart.

Brenham – Small Town, Big Taste

Nestled between Austin and Houston, Brenham isn’t just Blue Bell country—it’s also home to LJ’s BBQ. These folks are smoking meats that rival the big dogs. And if you’re lucky, you’ll catch one of their specialty days. Smoked turkey? Burnt ends? Yes, ma’am.

Tips for the Road

Come hungry. Most of these joints sell out daily, especially by lunchtime. Bring cash for the old-school places, and don’t be afraid to eat at a picnic table under a shade tree. The more rustic the setting, the better the flavor seems to be.

Final Thoughts

There ain’t no wrong turn on a Texas BBQ road trip—just meatier detours. Whether you’re after melt-in-your-mouth brisket, juicy ribs, or house-made sausage, July is the perfect month to gas up the truck, roll down the windows, and chase the smoke across the Lone Star State. So grab a cold drink, pack some wet wipes, and hit the road hungry.

Best Family Hotels in Dallas

Posted on March 20, 2020February 1, 2024 by gigis ramblings

The city of Dallas offers lots of exciting activities for families to enjoy, making it a top vacation destination for travelers with kids. From its zoos and aquariums to its beautiful outdoor gardens, there are lots of attractions to see while visiting. Parents will be happy to know that there are also a number of hotels that offer family amenities and cater specifically to children. Here’s a short list of our recommended family-friendly hotels in the Big D.

Westin Hotel Galleria Dallas

For a completely non-smoking establishment, families can stay at the Westin Hotel Galleria Dallas, which is located inside the Galleria Dallas shopping center. This gives families easy access to popular retail stores and restaurants that are located in this complex. Room service is available 24/7 and front desk service is available around the clock as well. Kids stay for free and can visit the onsite kids club for a chance to enjoy fun activities like arts and crafts. The hotel welcomes dogs that weigh up to 40 pounds, so small family pets are welcome to stay so long as they are properly supervised by their owners. The Second Floor Restaurant and The Oceanaire Seafood Room are two wonderful restaurants at the hotel where guests of all ages can enjoy seasonal entrees and locally-inspired dishes.

Residence Inn Central Expressway Dallas

The Residence Inn Central Expressway Dallas is ideal for extended stays, so anyone planning a long family vacation should consider booking a room at this hotel. Complimentary amenities include high-speed internet access and a free daily breakfast. Onsite laundry facilities make it easy for parents to wash their children’s clothing. Cribs are available upon request for people traveling with young infants, and rooms feature pull-out sofas for families who need extra sleeping space. Local restaurant delivery is a convenient option for guests who want to eat great local food from the comfort of their lodgings. The outdoor pool is perfect for hot days when families need to cool off. The hotel is only two miles away from a miniature golf course and about four miles from popular hiking trails.

Hyatt Place Hotel Park Central Dallas

For a kid-friendly hotel in North Dallas, families should try the Hyatt Place Hotel Park Central Dallas. Guests have easy access to the Dart Light Rail, which offers public transportation to local attractions in the area. The hotel also offers complimentary shuttle service within a five-mile radius. Free Wi-Fi is available so that guests can stay connected and 24-hour room service ensures that hotel patrons can always order something to eat. A complimentary breakfast is offered to guests every morning to help them start the day off right. People of all ages will love the onsite swimming pool and the 24-hour fitness center. Pets under 50 pounds are welcome for an additional fee, so kids can bring their favorite small dog along for the trip.

Hotel Crescent Court

Families who are in search of a luxury hotel in Uptown Dallas can stay at the Hotel Crescent Court. With a perfect blend of modern style and traditional Texas hospitality, this hotel is ideal for travelers who want to enjoy high-class amenities and comfortable accommodations while visiting the Lone Star State. The Rose Buds program is designed especially for children so that they can enjoy fun activities during their stay. The program offers kids menus for onsite dining and makes it easy for parents to request cribs, baby monitors and babysitting services. Families that want extra room can even choose to stay in spacious suites with full kitchens.

Ritz Carlton Hotel Dallas

Another luxurious place to stay in Uptown is the Ritz Carlton Hotel Dallas, which features upscale amenities and elegant furnishings in every guestroom. In-room dining is available 24 hours a day and the hotel features an onsite restaurant called Fearings Restaurant and has poolside dining options. The Ritz Kids program is designed to welcome children and help them enjoy their time at the hotel by offering fun activities and helping them explore the local area. There are several types of rooms and suites to choose from, including rooms with two queen beds to accommodate families with at least two children. The hotel is less than a mile from popular attractions like Victory Park, the Dallas World Aquarium and American Airlines Center.

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