Tag: tips

The Link Between Movement and Mood

Posted on by gigis ramblings
man walking on sunny day

Image created with Canva AI

Movement Isn’t About Fitness—It’s About Survival

For most of human history, we moved because we had to. We walked, lifted, squatted, carried, climbed. Our bodies and brains evolved expecting regular movement. When movement disappears, mood often follows. This isn’t about chasing a workout aesthetic—it’s about keeping your nervous system regulated.

How Movement Affects the Brain

Movement directly influences brain chemistry. Physical activity increases dopamine, serotonin, and endorphins—chemicals responsible for motivation, calm, and emotional stability. At the same time, movement helps regulate cortisol, the stress hormone that stays elevated when we’re overwhelmed, anxious, or burnt out.

Even low-impact movement can create noticeable changes. A short walk, stretching, or light chores can interrupt spirals of anxiety or low mood by shifting the brain out of fight-or-flight mode.

Why Sitting Too Much Messes With Your Mood

Long periods of inactivity slow circulation, stiffen muscles, and reduce oxygen flow to the brain. Over time, this can contribute to fatigue, irritability, brain fog, and even depressive symptoms. The body interprets prolonged stillness as a form of stress—especially when paired with screens and constant mental stimulation.

Anxiety, Depression, and the Role of Movement

Movement gives anxious energy somewhere to go. When the body releases physical tension, the mind often follows. For depression, movement can feel impossible—but it’s one of the most effective tools available. It doesn’t require motivation first; motivation often shows up after movement begins.

This doesn’t mean intense workouts. Gentle, consistent movement is often more effective than forcing high-intensity routines that increase stress.

The Nervous System Connection

Movement helps reset the nervous system. Rhythmic activities like walking, rocking, stretching, or yoga activate the parasympathetic system—the part responsible for calm and recovery. This is why repetitive, steady motion often feels grounding and soothing.

You Don’t Need a Gym to Improve Your Mood

Mood-boosting movement doesn’t have to look like exercise. Cleaning, gardening, dancing in the kitchen, pacing while thinking, or even stretching before bed all count. The goal is regular motion, not perfection.

Consistency Matters More Than Intensity

Five minutes of daily movement is more powerful for mood regulation than an hour-long workout once a week. Consistency teaches the body safety and stability. Over time, movement becomes a form of emotional maintenance rather than a chore.

Listening to Your Body Instead of Punishing It

Movement should support your mental health, not become another source of pressure. Some days call for strength, others for softness. The body communicates what it needs—when we slow down enough to listen.

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.

The Appeal of “Digital Detox” Weekends

Posted on by gigis ramblings
cozy bed with phone and book

For a lot of us, the idea of unplugging for an entire weekend sounds equal parts peaceful and terrifying. Our phones wake us up, guide us through the day, entertain us at night, and somehow still manage to stress us out in between. A “digital detox” weekend isn’t about rejecting technology forever; it’s about stepping away long enough to remember what life feels like without a screen constantly demanding attention.

As burnout, anxiety, and screen fatigue keep rising, more people are intentionally disconnecting for short periods of time. And weekends have become the perfect testing ground.

Why We’re So Drawn to Digital Detoxing

The appeal starts with exhaustion. Between work emails, social media, news alerts, group texts, and endless scrolling, our brains never really shut off. Even when we’re “relaxing,” we’re still processing information nonstop.

A digital detox weekend promises mental quiet. No notifications interrupting conversations. No doomscrolling before bed. No pressure to respond immediately. For many people, that silence alone feels like relief.

The Mental Health Benefits of Unplugging

One of the biggest reasons people try digital detox weekends is for their mental health. Constant connectivity keeps the nervous system in a low-level state of stress. Even positive notifications still trigger a response.

Stepping away can help reduce anxiety, improve sleep quality, and make it easier to stay present. Many people report feeling calmer by day two, once the urge to check their phone starts to fade. Without constant comparison on social media, self-esteem often gets a quiet boost as well.

Relearning How to Be Bored (and Why That’s Good)

Boredom has become something we avoid at all costs, but it plays an important role in creativity and problem-solving. When there’s no screen to grab, your mind starts wandering again… in a good way.

During a digital detox weekend, boredom often leads to reading, journaling, cooking, cleaning, or starting projects that have been put off for months. It can feel uncomfortable at first, but that space is where clarity and creativity tend to show up.

Stronger Real-Life Connections

When phones aren’t constantly present, conversations change. Eye contact lasts longer. Listening improves. Meals aren’t interrupted by scrolling or buzzing devices.

Couples, families, and friends often find digital detox weekends help them reconnect in a more meaningful way. Even spending time alone can feel richer when it isn’t fragmented by notifications every few minutes.

Why Weekends Work Best for Detoxing

Weekends are ideal because they already signal a break from routine. Most people don’t need to be reachable for work, and expectations for immediate responses are lower.

A short detox also feels more manageable than an open-ended one. Knowing it’s just a weekend makes it easier to commit and easier to repeat if it goes well.

The Challenges No One Talks About

Digital detoxing isn’t always easy. Many people experience anxiety, restlessness, or the fear of missing out during the first day. There’s also the uncomfortable realization of how often we reach for our phones out of habit, not necessity.

That discomfort is actually part of the process. It highlights how deeply ingrained our digital dependence has become and why stepping away can be so powerful.

Finding Balance Instead of Going Extreme

A digital detox weekend doesn’t have to mean locking your phone in a drawer or disappearing completely. Some people choose to remove social media apps, limit phone use to emergencies, or avoid screens after a certain hour.

The goal isn’t perfection, it’s awareness. Even small changes can lead to healthier relationships with technology long-term.

Why Digital Detox Weekends Are Here to Stay

As life becomes more digital, intentional disconnection feels less like a trend and more like self-preservation. Digital detox weekends offer a reset without requiring a lifestyle overhaul.

They remind us that technology should serve our lives, not consume them, and sometimes the best way to reconnect is to log off for a while.

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.

Behind-the-Scenes: How I Track Orders Without Fancy Software

Posted on by gigis ramblings
lady standing at a candle in a candle shop

Running a small business from home doesn’t require expensive software, complicated dashboards, or a dozen different apps. I know because I’ve been doing this since 2012, and I still rely on simple systems that make sense for my workload.

Order tracking doesn’t have to be overwhelming. It just has to be reliable.

Why I Don’t Use Fancy Order Management Software

There are a lot of tools out there promising to automate everything. For some businesses, that makes sense. For mine, it’s unnecessary.

My website is built on WooCommerce, which already does the heavy lifting. Orders come in clean, organized, and easy to access. I can see what’s paid, what’s processing, what’s shipped, and what still needs attention at a glance.

For a small business, that level of clarity is more than enough.

How WooCommerce Keeps My Orders Organized

WooCommerce is one of the most user-friendly platforms I’ve ever used. Every order is automatically logged, time-stamped, and assigned a status. That alone eliminates the need for extra tracking tools.

When an order comes in, I can quickly see:
• Customer details
• Items ordered
• Payment status
• Shipping method
• Order notes

As my order volume fluctuates, WooCommerce scales with me without creating chaos. Whether I have a light week or a packed one, everything stays organized in one place.

Shipping Made Simple With Built-In Tracking

I ship most orders through USPS. It’s reliable, affordable, and works perfectly for the majority of my products. For larger or heavier items, I’ll switch to UPS or FedEx when it makes more sense.

No matter which carrier I use, tracking is built in.

Once a label is created and the order is marked as shipped, tracking information is automatically attached. Customers receive updates, and I can see exactly where an order is at any time without digging through emails or spreadsheets.

That alone saves hours every week.

My Actual Order Tracking Process

My system is simple and repeatable, which is exactly why it works.

Orders are handled in this order:

  1. New orders are reviewed inside WooCommerce
  2. Orders ready to ship are processed first
  3. Shipping labels are created and tracking is added
  4. Orders are marked complete once shipped

There’s no guessing, no sticky notes, and no “I’ll remember that later.” Everything lives where it should.

How I Handle Higher Order Volume Without Stress

When order volume increases, the system doesn’t change. I just work through it in batches.

I ship first thing in the morning whenever possible. That way, orders are out the door early and off my mental load. Once shipping is done, I move on to emails and admin tasks knowing the most important part of the day is already handled.

Consistency is what keeps things manageable, not complexity.

Why Simple Systems Work Better for Small Businesses

For small businesses, complicated systems often create more problems than they solve. Every extra tool adds another thing to maintain, learn, and troubleshoot.

WooCommerce already provides:
• Order management
• Payment tracking
• Shipping integration
• Customer communication

Using what’s already built in keeps everything streamlined and easy to manage, especially when you’re wearing all the hats.

What I’d Tell Other Small Business Owners

You don’t need fancy software to run a legitimate, organized business. You need a system you understand and actually use.

For me, WooCommerce paired with USPS, UPS, and FedEx tracking has been more than enough to keep orders moving smoothly. It’s simple, efficient, and easy to keep up with, even on busy weeks.

Sometimes the best system isn’t the most advanced one. It’s the one that fits your business and keeps your sanity intact.

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.

Why ASMR Became the Internet’s Favorite Relaxation Tool

Posted on by gigis ramblings
manlaying in bed watching asmr

I may be the odd man out here, but I cannot tolerate ASMR at all. It doesn’t relax me. It doesn’t soothe me. It doesn’t give me “tingles.” Instead, it gives me anxiety, makes me uncomfortable, and honestly feels like nails on a chalkboard. The whispering, the mouth sounds, the tapping — all of it sends my nervous system straight into fight-or-flight.

And yet, millions of people swear by it.

ASMR videos pull in billions of views. People use them to fall asleep, calm anxiety, cope with loneliness, and decompress after long days. So how did something that feels unbearable to some become the internet’s favorite relaxation tool for so many others?

What ASMR Actually Is

ASMR stands for Autonomous Sensory Meridian Response. It describes a physical sensation, often a tingling feeling that starts at the scalp and moves down the neck or spine, triggered by certain sounds or visual cues.

Common ASMR triggers include whispering or soft-spoken voices, tapping or scratching sounds, page turning, slow hand movements, and personal-attention roleplay like haircuts, eye exams, or makeup application.

For people who experience ASMR, these triggers don’t just sound pleasant. They create a genuine sense of calm and safety.

Why So Many People Find ASMR Relaxing

It Slows the Nervous System

ASMR can activate the parasympathetic nervous system, the part responsible for rest and recovery. Heart rate slows, breathing deepens, and the body relaxes. For people dealing with chronic stress or anxiety, this response can feel almost immediate.

It Mimics Care and Attention

A lot of ASMR content is intentionally gentle and personal. Soft voices, slow movements, and focused attention mimic being cared for. For people who feel lonely, overwhelmed, or emotionally drained, that sense of calm presence can be deeply comforting.

It Helps With Sleep

Many people rely on ASMR the same way others use white noise or calming music. The repetitive, predictable sounds help quiet racing thoughts and create a mental off-switch at bedtime.

Why ASMR Has the Opposite Effect on Some People

If ASMR makes your skin crawl instead of relax, you’re not broken. Your brain just processes sensory input differently.

Sensory Sensitivity

Certain sounds can trigger irritation or anxiety rather than calm. Whispering, mouth sounds, and repetitive noises can feel invasive or overwhelming instead of soothing.

Misophonia Overlap

There’s a strong overlap between disliking ASMR and misophonia, a condition where specific sounds cause intense emotional reactions like anger, anxiety, or panic. What relaxes one person can genuinely distress another.

Forced Intimacy Can Feel Uncomfortable

ASMR often simulates closeness. For some people that feels safe. For others it feels awkward, unsettling, or even intrusive, especially when it comes from a stranger on a screen.

Why ASMR Exploded Online

It’s Accessible

ASMR doesn’t require expensive setups. A microphone, patience, and consistency are enough. That low barrier helped it spread rapidly across YouTube, TikTok, and streaming platforms.

It Solves a Modern Problem

We live in a loud, fast, overstimulated world. ASMR offers the opposite: slow, quiet, intentional content. For many people, it’s an antidote to constant noise and digital overload.

Algorithms Push It

ASMR videos keep viewers engaged for long periods, especially at night. That watch time makes platforms push the content even harder, keeping ASMR constantly circulating.

Is ASMR Actually Good for You?

For people who enjoy it, yes. Research suggests ASMR can reduce stress, improve mood, and help with sleep.

For people who hate it, forcing yourself to like it is pointless. Relaxation isn’t universal. If ASMR spikes your anxiety, your brain is doing exactly what it’s supposed to do.

Final Thoughts

ASMR didn’t become the internet’s favorite relaxation tool because everyone loves it. It became popular because for the people it works for, it works incredibly well.

And for the rest of us, there’s comfort in knowing we’re not alone, even if our idea of relaxation sounds nothing like whispering into a microphone in the dark.

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 Focus on When Energy Is Low

Posted on by gigis ramblings
a person simply doing the best they can

Low energy doesn’t always mean something is wrong. Sometimes it’s just a signal to slow down, adjust expectations, and move differently through the day. I’ve learned not to fight it anymore. When my energy dips, I stop chasing productivity and start paying attention to what actually helps.

I Lower the Bar on Purpose

When energy is low, I don’t try to “push through.” That mindset only leaves me irritated and exhausted. Instead, I decide what actually matters that day. Not the ideal list. Not the Pinterest version of productivity. Just the few things that truly need attention.

Lowering the bar isn’t quitting. It’s conserving energy for what counts.

I Focus on Maintenance, Not Progress

Low-energy days aren’t for big goals or long-term plans. They’re for maintenance. I focus on keeping life steady rather than moving it forward.

That might mean folding laundry, answering a few messages, or handling small tasks that don’t require creativity or emotional effort. These things still count, even if they don’t feel impressive.

I Protect My Mental Space

When energy is low, my tolerance for noise, negativity, and chaos drops fast. I’m careful about what I let in. That includes conversations, social media, and even background noise.

I’ve learned that mental clutter drains energy just as much as physical effort. Quiet helps me reset, even if it’s just for a short while.

I Choose Comfort Without Guilt

Comfort isn’t laziness. On low-energy days, I lean into things that feel grounding. Comfortable clothes. Familiar routines. Simple meals. Familiar shows or music that doesn’t demand attention.

There’s no guilt in choosing ease. Rest is productive when it keeps burnout away.

I Listen to What My Body Is Asking For

Low energy can come from stress, overstimulation, or just needing rest. I try to listen instead of override it. Sometimes that means moving slower. Other times it means stepping away from responsibilities for a bit.

Ignoring those signals always costs me more later. Paying attention now saves energy in the long run.

I Give Myself Permission to Be Quiet

Not every day needs commentary. Not every thought needs to be processed or shared. When energy is low, I allow myself to be quiet without explanation.

Stillness has its own kind of healing. I don’t need to justify it.

I Remember That This Is Temporary

Low energy days feel heavy when I treat them like a failure. They feel manageable when I remember they’re temporary. I don’t need to fix everything today. I just need to get through it with care.

Energy comes back. It always does.

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.

The Hidden Pressure of “Back to Normal”

Posted on by gigis ramblings
getting back to normal

For many, the phrase “back to normal” sounds comforting. It promises a return to routines, familiar faces, and a sense of stability. But what it often brings is quiet, unspoken pressure. The pressure to perform, to pretend everything is fine, and to fit into a timeline that doesn’t always match our own. My husband went back to work today and I miss him already!

Society’s Unspoken Timeline

From work deadlines to social expectations, we’re constantly reminded that life should resume at full speed. People post their “back to normal” selfies, kids return to school, and offices buzz again. It can feel like a subtle competition: Who is coping best? Who adjusted fastest? For those who struggled, the pressure to catch up can be exhausting.

Emotional Overload Behind the Mask

Even when routines resume, our minds and hearts may still carry the weight of recent challenges. Anxiety, grief, or burnout doesn’t always vanish when schedules return to normal. Pretending everything is fine only adds to stress. This invisible emotional labor is real, and it’s draining.

Redefining “Normal” on Your Terms

The truth is, “normal” doesn’t have a universal definition. It’s personal. Some may thrive in full social engagement, while others need slower steps. Allowing yourself to acknowledge your limits isn’t failure—it’s self-respect. Small adjustments, flexible routines, and honest communication can create a healthier version of normal that works for you.

Setting Boundaries Without Guilt

One of the hardest parts of resuming life is saying no. Whether it’s social events, extra work, or family obligations, boundaries are crucial. Saying no doesn’t make you weak—it protects your energy. Embracing your own pace helps you rebuild strength instead of burning out chasing someone else’s idea of “normal.”

Moving Forward Mindfully

Instead of rushing to blend into old rhythms, take time to reflect. Notice what truly matters and what feels like performative pressure. Celebrate small wins, seek support when needed, and allow yourself to reshape routines. Returning to life after disruption doesn’t mean erasing experiences—it means integrating them thoughtfully.

Life isn’t a race, and the invisible pressure of “back to normal” doesn’t have to define you. Moving forward on your own terms creates a lasting balance, one step at a time.

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 Clean Differently in Winter

Posted on by gigis ramblings
winter cleaning

When the temperature drops and the air turns crisp, my cleaning routine changes. Winter brings unique challenges for keeping my home cozy, clean, and healthy. Here’s what I focus on differently during the colder months.

Tackle the Entryway First

Winter means boots, coats, and muddy paws tracking in snow, salt, and dirt. I sweep and mop entryways more often than in summer. A good doormat and a small boot tray help keep the mess contained. I also wipe down coat hooks and hangers to prevent salt and grime buildup.

Keep Air Quality in Check

Dry indoor air is a winter challenge. I clean air vents, replace filters, and dust surfaces more thoroughly to reduce allergens and dust circulation. Using a humidifier in bedrooms and common areas helps prevent dry skin, chapped lips, and respiratory irritation.

Focus on the Kitchen

Comfort foods, soups, and baking mean more mess in the kitchen. I deep-clean countertops, stovetops, and the inside of the fridge weekly. Spilled sugar or flour attracts pests, which I make sure to avoid by wiping down surfaces and sweeping crumbs regularly.

Bathroom Maintenance Shifts

Cold weather keeps showers shorter and windows closed, increasing humidity and the risk of mildew. I pay extra attention to scrubbing shower tiles, sinks, and faucets. Wiping down surfaces after each use reduces water spots and keeps bathrooms smelling fresh.

Laundry Adjustments

Winter clothes are heavier—think sweaters, jeans, and hoodies. I wash my winter clothes more often. Sweaters and coats get gentle care, and I make sure hats and gloves don’t get ruined.

Floors Take Priority

Leaves, slush, and mud can ruin floors fast. I vacuum and mop high-traffic areas frequently. Rugs and runners near entrances get shaken out or washed more often. For wood floors, I use a damp mop rather than soaking to avoid warping from winter moisture.

Seasonal Extras

Winter is a great time for cleaning tasks we often forget: wiping down baseboards, dusting ceiling fans, and cleaning light fixtures. These tasks make the home feel brighter and more welcoming during the shorter, darker days.

Winter cleaning isn’t just about tidiness—it’s about comfort, safety, and making your home feel warm and inviting during the cold months. Adjusting routines for the season keeps both the home and the people inside happy.

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.

Planning a More Self-Sufficient Life Through Gardening and Canning

Posted on by gigis ramblings
garden area

Becoming more self-sufficient is something we’ve been thinking about seriously, not as a trend but as a long-term goal. Rising food costs, supply issues, and a growing desire to rely less on outside systems have pushed us to start preparing now rather than waiting until it feels urgent.

One of the most important parts of that preparation is food. Learning how to grow and preserve our own food through gardening and canning feels like a practical, achievable place to start. The goal isn’t perfection or doing everything at once. It’s education, planning, and building skills that can grow over time.

Why Gardening and Canning Are the Foundation

Gardening gives you control over what you grow and how it’s produced. Canning ensures that work doesn’t go to waste and allows you to stock a pantry that supports your household year-round. Together, they create food security and reduce dependence on constant grocery store trips.

Starting now gives us time to learn without pressure, make mistakes safely, and build confidence before investing heavily in supplies or expanding production.

Learning Before Doing

Before buying seeds or jars, education comes first. Understanding soil, climate, planting schedules, and food safety makes everything else easier and far less overwhelming.

Books remain one of the most reliable resources, especially for canning where safety matters. Gardening guides specific to Texas and trusted preservation manuals help cut through misinformation and avoid risky shortcuts.

Understanding Our Growing Area

Living in Central Texas means gardening comes with both advantages and challenges. We have a long growing season, mild winters, and intense summer heat. Spring and fall gardens are both possible, but crop selection and timing matter.

Knowing our USDA hardiness zone, average frost dates, and which plants tolerate heat helps shape the entire plan, from seed choices to planting schedules.

Building on Past Gardening Experience

This isn’t our first experience with gardening. In the past, we’ve had consistent success with squash, bell peppers, jalapeños, cucumbers, tomatoes, onions, and okra. Even without a perfect setup, these crops have done well for us, which gives us a solid foundation to build on.

That experience matters. Instead of starting from scratch, the focus now is on expanding intentionally. We already know what works in our climate, so the goal is to add variety, improve planning, and grow with preservation and storage in mind.

Planning the Garden Before Buying Seeds

A productive garden starts with a plan, not impulse purchases. Knowing how much space is available, how much sun the area gets, and how much time can realistically be committed each week prevents frustration later.

Just as important is growing food we actually use and know how to preserve. Gardening for self-sufficiency means thinking beyond harvest and planning for storage.

Basic Garden Planning Checklist

  • Measure available growing space
  • Decide on in-ground beds, raised beds, or containers
  • Track daily sun exposure
  • Choose crops with preservation in mind
  • Plan planting dates and succession crops
  • Leave room for mistakes and learning

Easy Vegetables to Grow and Can in Central Texas

Some vegetables are simply more forgiving than others, especially for gardeners who want reliable results.

Tomatoes are versatile and ideal for sauces, salsas, and juice. Green beans grow quickly and pressure can well. Peppers thrive in the heat and can be pickled or canned. Cucumbers are productive and perfect for pickling. Okra handles Texas summers effortlessly and preserves well. Squash and zucchini produce heavily and freeze or can easily. Onions store well and are used in nearly every preservation recipe.

These crops will remain staples in the plan because they’re dependable and useful.

Expanding Beyond the Basics

While those reliable vegetables will stay part of the garden, adding new crops increases flexibility and variety.

Additional vegetables worth incorporating include carrots, bush beans, sweet potatoes, beets, Swiss chard, and herbs like basil and oregano. These pair well with existing crops and open the door to more canning, freezing, drying, and everyday cooking options.

Vegetables That Grow Well in Planters and Containers

Not everything needs to be planted in the ground. Container gardening allows for flexibility, better soil control, and easier pest management. It also makes it possible to grow more food without expanding the footprint of the main garden.

Peppers, tomatoes (especially determinate or patio varieties), cucumbers with trellises, bush beans, leafy greens like lettuce and spinach, radishes, green onions, and herbs all grow well in planters. Larger containers can also support dwarf squash varieties and even sweet potatoes when given enough space.

Incorporating more container gardening into the plan makes it easier to experiment with new crops while keeping things manageable.

Starting Seeds Indoors

Starting seeds indoors allows for stronger plants and better control, especially for heat-loving vegetables like tomatoes and peppers. With the right timing and setup, it’s also more cost-effective than buying transplants.

Basic supplies include seed trays, quality seed-starting mix, proper lighting, and labels. Timing matters, and seedlings need to be hardened off before moving outdoors to avoid shock.

First-Year Canning Goals

The first year of canning isn’t about filling shelves wall to wall. It’s about learning safe techniques and building confidence.

Focusing on a few reliable recipes like tomato sauce, pickles, green beans, and tested salsa recipes keeps the process manageable. Mastering both water bath and pressure canning methods slowly lays the groundwork for expanding later.

Basic Canning Supplies Checklist

  • Water bath canner
  • Pressure canner
  • Mason jars
  • New lids
  • Jar lifter
  • Funnel
  • Bubble remover

Creating a Realistic First-Year Plan

Trying to do too much at once is the fastest way to burn out. A better approach is to limit the number of crops, take notes throughout the season, and review what worked at the end.

End-of-Season Review Checklist

  • Which crops produced best
  • Which struggled and why
  • What we actually used and preserved
  • What to repeat next year
  • What to remove from the plan

Moving Forward With Intention

Self-sufficiency isn’t a destination. It’s a process built through preparation, patience, and consistency. By building on past gardening success, expanding into new crops and container gardening, and learning preservation skills now, we’re creating a foundation that can grow year after year.

This is about progress, not perfection, and about starting before it feels urgent.

How I Start the Year Calm

Posted on by gigis ramblings
slow mornings

Reflecting, Not Overthinking
I like to spend the first morning of the year reflecting quietly. I don’t write long lists of resolutions or force a complete life overhaul. Instead, I think about the small wins from the past year and what I want more of in the coming months. I consider relationships, health, and moments that brought me peace. Reflection isn’t about judgment or guilt; it’s about clarity. It’s acknowledging where I am and where I want to gently steer my energy.

Rituals That Ground Me
Certain rituals help me start the year calm. A simple cup of hot tea, a short walk outside, or lighting a candle in my favorite scent creates a sense of familiarity and comfort. These small actions signal to my mind that I am in control of how I enter this new chapter. Rituals don’t have to be elaborate—they just need to be meaningful enough to anchor me in the present.

Setting Intentions, Not Rules
Instead of rigid resolutions, I focus on intentions. Intentions are flexible and realistic, guiding me without creating pressure. For example, I intend to be more present with family, to carve out moments for creativity, or to prioritize rest when I need it. Framing goals this way keeps the start of the year gentle, encouraging growth without stress.

Slowing Down, Not Rushing Forward
One of the most important ways I stay calm is by slowing down. The first few days of January aren’t for rushing or overcommitting. I give myself permission to ease back into routines, to savor quiet mornings, and to move at my own pace. By starting slow, I carry a sense of calm into the weeks ahead.

A Mindset of Calm
Starting the year calm isn’t about doing everything perfectly; it’s about choosing peace over chaos. It’s letting go of what I can’t control and leaning into what matters. For me, calm comes from reflection, ritual, and patience. It’s a mindset more than an action, and it sets a tone that lasts long after the calendar flips.

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.

Starting the New Year With Intention

Posted on by gigis ramblings
new year planner

The beginning of a new year carries a certain quiet magic. It’s not loud like resolutions shouted into the January air. It’s softer. Slower. More thoughtful. Starting the year with intention isn’t about changing everything overnight. It’s about choosing how you want to show up and letting that guide your steps.

Why Intention Matters More Than Resolutions

Resolutions often focus on fixing what feels broken. Intention focuses on alignment. Instead of saying, “I have to do better,” intention asks, “What feels right for me this season of life?”

Intentions leave room for grace. They understand that growth is rarely a straight line. When life throws curveballs, intention allows flexibility without guilt.

Reflect Before You Move Forward

Before setting intentions, take time to look back. Reflection creates clarity.

Ask yourself what worked last year and what didn’t. Notice where you felt peace and where you felt drained. Pay attention to patterns, not just moments.

This reflection isn’t about judgment. It’s about understanding yourself better so you can move forward with purpose.

Choose Intentions That Feel Grounded

Intentions should feel steady, not overwhelming. They should support your life, not compete with it.

Examples of intentional themes include choosing presence over busyness, prioritizing rest without apology, or creating space for creativity. These aren’t tasks. They’re ways of living.

When your intention feels grounded, it becomes easier to return to it when motivation fades.

Create Small Daily Anchors

Big change often starts with tiny habits. Daily anchors help keep your intention alive.

This could look like five quiet minutes in the morning, journaling before bed, or setting boundaries around your time. The goal isn’t perfection. The goal is consistency.

Anchors act as reminders of who you’re becoming, even on messy days.

Release the Pressure to Do It All

Starting the year with intention means letting go of unrealistic expectations. You don’t need a perfectly mapped-out year. You don’t need to have everything figured out by January.

Growth unfolds in layers. Some intentions will evolve. Others may fall away. That’s not failure. That’s wisdom.

Give yourself permission to move at your own pace.

Let Intention Guide, Not Control

Intentions aren’t rules. They’re guideposts. When decisions come up, ask whether they align with how you want to feel and live this year.

If the answer is no, it’s okay to step back. If the answer is yes, move forward with confidence.

Living intentionally creates a year that feels meaningful, not rushed.

A Gentle Start Is Still a Strong One

You don’t need a dramatic transformation to have a powerful year. Sometimes the strongest choice is starting quietly, intentionally, and with self-trust.

This year doesn’t need to be perfect. It just needs to be yours.

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.