Snowed (or Iced) In? Fun Ways Texans Can Beat Cabin Fever

Posted on January 26, 2026January 27, 2026 by gigis ramblings

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When Texas ices over, the whole state hits pause. Roads turn into skating rinks, stores close, and suddenly everyone’s stuck at home wondering what to do next. The good news? Being iced in doesn’t have to be boring. It can actually turn into a cozy, memory-making kind of day.

Turn Your Home Into a Cozy Retreat

Cold, gray weather is the perfect excuse to lean into comfort.

Light candles, grab your softest blankets, and make a warm drink like hot chocolate, coffee, or spiced tea. Put on a comfort show or movie you’ve seen a hundred times. There’s something about familiar favorites that just hits different when the weather outside is miserable.

This is your sign to slow down without guilt.

Have a Movie or TV Marathon

Pick a theme and go all in. Movie trilogies, true crime documentaries, cooking competitions, or nostalgic throwback shows from childhood all make great binge material.

Make it feel like an event by setting up snacks in bowls, dimming the lights, and staying in pajamas all day. No one’s going anywhere anyway.

Get Creative With Indoor Hobbies

Being stuck inside is a great time to finally do that creative thing you “never have time for.”

Try:

Creative hobbies help pass the time and are great for stress relief, especially when winter weather has everything shut down.

Cook or Bake Something From Scratch

When Texans can’t drive on ice, we cook.

Try a recipe that takes a little extra time, like homemade bread, soup, chili, or cookies. Baking fills the house with amazing smells and gives everyone something warm and comforting to eat.

If you have kids at home, let them help measure, stir, or decorate. It keeps them busy and turns a boring day into a fun family memory.

Related: Cure the Rainy Day Blues

Have a Family Game Day

Board games, card games, and puzzles are perfect for icy days.

Pull out classics like Monopoly, Scrabble, Uno, dominoes, or a big jigsaw puzzle you can work on throughout the day. If you’re more into video games, try multiplayer party games that everyone can join.

A little friendly competition is a great cure for cabin fever.

Declutter and Organize One Space

Okay, not the most exciting idea, but hear me out.

Pick one small area: a junk drawer, a closet shelf, or the pantry. Set a timer for 20–30 minutes and see how much you can sort through. You’ll feel productive, and future-you will be grateful.

Plus, organizing while stuck inside makes the time go by faster.

Try an At-Home Spa Day

Turn your bathroom into a mini spa.

Take a long shower or bath, use a face mask, deep-condition your hair, and put on comfy clothes afterward. Play relaxing music or a podcast while you unwind.

It’s a great way to fight off the gloomy mood that icy weather can bring.

Learn Something New Online

Use the downtime to learn a new skill.

Watch tutorials on:

Cooking techniques
Home workouts
Photography tips
Craft projects
Language learning apps

A few hours of learning can turn a “wasted” day into one that actually feels productive.

Build a Blanket Fort (Yes, Even for Adults)

Don’t knock it till you try it.

Use blankets, chairs, and pillows to build a cozy fort in the living room. Read, watch movies, or just hang out inside. Kids love it, but honestly, adults do too. It brings back that childhood snow-day magic.

Plan Future Trips or Projects

If you’re feeling stir-crazy, start planning something to look forward to.

Research a future vacation, weekend road trip, home renovation idea, or even just a backyard project for warmer weather. Having plans on the horizon makes being stuck inside feel a little less frustrating.

Stay Connected Virtually

Just because the roads are icy doesn’t mean you have to feel isolated.

Video call friends or family, join an online game night, or just text someone you haven’t talked to in a while. A little social connection can instantly boost your mood on a long indoor day.

Being iced in is an occasional part of life in Texas winters. Instead of fighting it, treat it like a built-in pause button. Slow down, get cozy, try something new, and enjoy the rare excuse to stay home and do absolutely nothing…or everything.

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.

Winter Comforts That Feel Like Home

Posted on January 25, 2026January 27, 2026 by gigis ramblings

showcasing someof winter's greatest comforts

When the wind starts rattling the windows and the days get short and quiet, something inside us starts craving comfort. Not just warmth, but the kind that wraps around your heart. Winter has a way of pulling us back to what feels safe, familiar, and grounding. These are the little comforts that make the season feel like home instead of just cold.

Why We Crave Comfort More in Winter

Cold weather does funny things to people. Our bodies slow down. Our minds drift toward memories. The darker days make us long for light, connection, and softness. Winter is when we reach for the things that remind us we are loved and okay.

This is why comfort foods, warm scents, and cozy routines hit deeper this time of year. They are not just habits. They are emotional anchors.

Warm Scents That Fill the House With Memories

Smell is one of the strongest memory triggers we have. One whiff can take you straight back to your mama’s kitchen or your grandma’s living room.

In winter, people naturally gravitate toward scents like vanilla, cinnamon, baked apples, and warm spices. These smells create an instant sense of safety. They turn a house into a home.

This is why so many folks light candles or use wax melts more in winter than any other season. A warm, bakery style scent or a soft, cozy blend can make even the coldest evening feel comforting and familiar.

Soft Blankets and Quiet Corners

There is something deeply healing about curling up in a soft blanket while the world outside feels loud and frozen. Winter invites us to slow down and be still.

A favorite throw on the couch. A chair by the window. A stack of well-loved books. These quiet corners become little sanctuaries. They give us space to breathe and just be.

This kind of comfort is not about being fancy. It is about feeling safe.

Comfort Food That Feeds the Soul

Winter food is not about counting calories. It is about filling your belly and your heart at the same time.

Soups, stews, casseroles, baked goods, and family recipes show up for a reason. They remind us of being taken care of. Of sitting around the table. Of laughter and warmth.

Even cooking these meals brings comfort. The chopping, the stirring, the smell in the air. It all becomes part of the experience.

Old Traditions That Never Get Old

Winter has a way of making traditions feel extra special. Movie nights, board games, baking days, decorating, or just sitting around talking. These simple rituals anchor us.

They give the season rhythm. They remind us that even when life feels heavy, there is still joy to be found in small moments.

Traditions do not have to be big. They just have to be yours.

Creating a Home That Feels Warm

Comfort in winter is not about having a perfect house. It is about creating a space that feels lived in and loved.

Soft lighting. Warm scents. Cozy textures. Familiar sounds. All of these little things come together to make a home feel safe when the world outside feels harsh.

Winter is not meant to be rushed. It is meant to be savored.

Let Winter Hold You

There is a reason so many people feel nostalgic this time of year. Winter reminds us of where we came from. It pulls us toward the things that make us feel grounded.

Whether it is a favorite scent, a soft blanket, or a family recipe, lean into what makes you feel at home. That is what winter is really for.

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.

That Weird Energy That Comes With a Cold Front

Posted on January 21, 2026January 22, 2026 by gigis ramblings

hilarious depiction of a cold front in Texas

That Texas Cold Front Feeling

There is something in the air when a cold front rolls toward Texas. It is not just the drop in temperature. It is a shift in mood. The sky feels heavier. The wind changes. People start acting just a little off.

This weekend we have a cold front coming, and sure enough, Texans are already clearing the shelves at HEB. Bread, milk, bottled water, batteries. It starts disappearing fast. We all laugh about it, but we also participate. Just in case.

Because in Texas, we do not prepare for snow. We panic buy for it.

Snowvid 2021 Changed Us

Snowvid 2021 gave Texans a special kind of weather trauma. Power outages. Frozen pipes. No heat. Empty stores. People melting snow in bathtubs just to flush toilets.

Ever since then, the moment a cold front is mentioned, a low level alarm goes off in our brains. Even if the forecast says forty degrees, we remember how fast things went sideways.

That is why when a cold front is predicted now, you can feel it in the grocery store before you feel it outside.

Texans Do Not Know How To Act

The funny part is we still do not know what to do with cold weather. We are built for heat. We are built for droughts, thunderstorms, and triple-digit summers. But forty degrees? Maybe snow? Maybe ice?

We do not know if we should wear flip-flops or dig out a parka.

So people hedge their bets. They buy soup. They fill their gas tanks. They make sure they have candles. Just in case this one turns into something bigger.

Because in Texas, a cold front is never just a cold front.

The Emotional Shift Nobody Talks About

Cold fronts bring a strange emotional shift. People get quieter. Nerves sit a little closer to the surface. Even pets seem clingier.

The air pressure drops. The wind changes. You feel restless but tired at the same time. It is like the whole state is holding its breath.

You do not even have to check the weather app to know something is coming. You can feel it in your bones.

Texas Weather Is Always a Gamble

Of course, it is Texas. We never really know what is going to happen until it actually happens. The forecast might say one thing, but reality often has other plans.

It could be flurries. It could be sleet. It could be nothing more than a chilly drizzle. Or it could be a mess.

That uncertainty is what fuels the weird energy. Not knowing is worse than knowing.

Why We Still Watch the Sky

So here we are again, watching the clouds roll in, scrolling weather apps, and side-eyeing the grocery aisles. Laughing about it while also quietly preparing.

Because Snowvid taught us that sometimes the forecast lies, but the consequences do not.

And in Texas, when a cold front comes knocking, you feel it long before the first drop of cold rain hits the ground.

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 Winter Scents Feel So Grounding

Posted on January 7, 2026January 2, 2026 by gigis ramblings

When the air turns cold and daylight fades faster than we’d like, many of us instinctively reach for warmer, deeper scents. Pine, cinnamon, clove, vanilla, smoke, cedar—there’s a reason these aromas feel comforting instead of heavy. Winter scents don’t just smell good; they anchor us. They slow us down, pull us into the present moment, and make our spaces feel safe and lived-in during a season that can otherwise feel bleak.

Scent and the Nervous System

Smell is the only sense that connects directly to the limbic system, the part of the brain that controls emotion, memory, and survival responses. Unlike sight or sound, scent doesn’t take a detour through logic first—it hits straight at the gut. That’s why certain smells can calm anxiety almost instantly or bring back vivid memories without warning.

In winter, when stress levels tend to rise due to shorter days, financial pressure, and social obligations, grounding scents can help regulate the nervous system. Warm, familiar aromas signal safety and stability, nudging the body out of fight-or-flight and into a calmer state.

Why Winter Scents Are Different From Summer Ones

Summer scents are often light, bright, and expansive—citrus, florals, ocean air. They energize and uplift. Winter scents do the opposite by design. They’re heavier, deeper, and slower. Think resins, woods, spices, and smoke. These scents sit lower in the body, creating a sense of weight and presence rather than movement.

This grounding effect mirrors the natural rhythm of winter itself. Nature slows down. Growth pauses. Animals burrow. Humans, whether we admit it or not, are wired to do the same. Winter scents support that instinct rather than fighting it.

Memory, Nostalgia, and Seasonal Comfort

Many winter scents are deeply tied to memory. Pine recalls Christmas trees and fresh-cut branches. Cinnamon and clove bring back kitchens filled with baking. Smoke and wood evoke fireplaces, bonfires, and old cabins. These associations aren’t accidental—they’re layered over years, sometimes decades.

When life feels uncertain, familiar scents act like emotional landmarks. They remind us of times we felt warm, fed, protected, or connected. Even if the present moment is stressful, those memories provide a sense of continuity and reassurance.

The Role of Earthy and Resinous Notes

Earthy and resin-based scents like frankincense, myrrh, patchouli, and cedar have been used for centuries in spiritual and grounding practices. These aromas are often described as “anchoring” because they encourage stillness and introspection.

In winter, these notes feel especially appropriate. They match the season’s quiet, inward energy and help create a feeling of solidity when everything outside feels cold and unstable. Lighting a wax melt or incense with these notes can turn a chaotic day into something slower and more intentional.

Creating a Grounding Winter Atmosphere at Home

Using winter scents intentionally can transform your space. Instead of burning something just to make the house smell good, think about the mood you want to create. Pine and fir are crisp and cleansing, perfect for mornings or after cleaning. Vanilla and spice feel nurturing and cozy, ideal for evenings. Woodsmoke and resin bring depth and calm, especially on long nights.

Layering scents throughout the day can help mark time during a season when days blur together. It’s a small ritual, but rituals matter—especially in winter.

Grounding as a Form of Self-Care

Grounding isn’t about escaping winter; it’s about settling into it. Winter scents don’t rush you forward or push productivity. They encourage rest, reflection, and presence. In a world that rarely slows down, that’s powerful.

Whether it’s a familiar holiday aroma or a deep, earthy blend, winter scents remind us to pause, breathe, and root ourselves where we are. Sometimes comfort doesn’t come from doing more—it comes from feeling held by something as simple as a scent in the air. We have plenty of winter scents on sale right now!

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 Winter Feels Different in the South

Posted on January 4, 2026January 2, 2026 by gigis ramblings

January Feels Like a Practical Joke

It’s January, and it’s almost 80 degrees. You throw on a hoodie thinking you’ll be cold, but the sun hits, and suddenly you’re sweating. That’s Southern winter—more mood swing than season. One day, you’re wrapped up in blankets. The next, you’re outside grilling.

Snow? Rare. Ice? Legendary.

Forget the Northern winter nightmares. Snow is a rumor, and ice storms are the kind of drama that shuts down half the state for a day and then vanishes. Most Southern winters are mild, unpredictable, and just enough to keep you guessing.

Winter Habits, Southern Style

We don’t hibernate—we adapt. Flip-flops in January? Yep. Sneaking seeds into the garden? Absolutely. Long drives, porch hangs, and back-yard grills are still on the menu. Even winter recipes get a sun-kissed twist—cornbread, chili, stew—but somehow, you’re still outside enjoying it.

The Sneaky Magic of Southern Winter

Southern winter isn’t harsh; it’s sneaky. Early blooms appear, the air feels soft, and life slows down just enough to notice it. There’s a freedom in it that Northern winters don’t give you—no scraping ice, no frozen toes—just a strange, fleeting season that somehow feels like home.

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 January 3, 2026January 2, 2026 by gigis ramblings

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.

The Winter Solstice: Darkness, Light, and Renewal

Posted on December 20, 2025December 21, 2025 by gigis ramblings

The winter solstice marks a powerful turning point in the year. It is the shortest day and longest night, signaling the return of longer daylight hours ahead. Observed for thousands of years, the winter solstice has deep historical, spiritual, and cultural significance across civilizations.

What Is the Winter Solstice?

The winter solstice occurs when the Earth’s axis tilts farthest away from the sun. In the Northern Hemisphere, this usually falls on December 21 or 22. On this day, the sun reaches its lowest point in the sky, resulting in the least amount of daylight all year.

After the solstice, days gradually begin to grow longer. For ancient cultures, this shift symbolized hope, renewal, and survival during the darkest part of winter.

Ancient History of the Winter Solstice

Long before modern calendars, ancient civilizations tracked the sun with remarkable accuracy. Stonehenge in England, Newgrange in Ireland, and Chaco Canyon in New Mexico were all aligned to the solstice, showing its importance in early societies.

The Romans celebrated Saturnalia, a festival honoring Saturn, the god of agriculture. It included feasting, gift-giving, and social role reversals. In Scandinavia, Norse cultures observed Yule, lighting fires and candles to welcome the sun’s return. Many of these traditions influenced later winter holidays.

For agricultural communities, the solstice marked a critical moment. It confirmed that the sun would return, crops would grow again, and life would continue.

Spiritual Meaning and Symbolism

Spiritually, the winter solstice represents rebirth and transformation. Darkness reaches its peak, but light is reborn. Many belief systems view this as a time for reflection, rest, and setting intentions for the year ahead.

In pagan traditions, the solstice honors nature’s cycles. It encourages slowing down, conserving energy, and embracing stillness. Modern spiritual practices often focus on gratitude, inner work, and personal renewal during this time.

The solstice reminds us that even in darkness, change is already underway.

Modern Winter Solstice Celebrations

Today, the winter solstice is celebrated in both traditional and modern ways. Some people light candles, build fires, or decorate with evergreen branches to symbolize endurance and life. Others observe it quietly with journaling, meditation, or family gatherings.

In recent years, interest in solstice traditions has grown as people seek deeper meaning during the winter season. The focus has shifted toward mindfulness, balance, and reconnecting with nature.

Why the Winter Solstice Still Matters

In a fast-paced world, the winter solstice offers a rare pause. It encourages rest, reflection, and patience. It reminds us that cycles are natural and that growth often begins in stillness.

The return of light after the longest night is a timeless message of hope. No matter how dark things feel, brighter days are already on their way.

Understanding the winter solstice helps us reconnect with ancient wisdom while finding meaning in the present.

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.

A Cozy Soup Roundup

Posted on December 18, 2025December 22, 2025 by gigis ramblings

When the weather turns cold and comfort is calling, soup just makes sense. Nothing fancy here. These are familiar, cozy favorites that don’t require specialty ingredients or advanced kitchen skills. Just good, honest bowls of warmth.

Classic Beef & Vegetable Soup

This is the kind of soup most of us grew up on. Tender beef, potatoes, carrots, celery, and a rich broth that tastes even better the next day. It’s hearty, filling, and perfect for slow simmering on a chilly evening.

Creamy Potato Soup

Simple, comforting, and always a crowd-pleaser. Potatoes, onion, broth, and cream come together into a thick, velvety soup that feels like a warm hug. Top it with cheese or green onions if you want, but it stands strong all on its own.

Tomato Basil Soup

A timeless classic that never disappoints. Smooth, rich tomato flavor with a touch of basil makes this one perfect for dipping or sipping straight from the bowl. It’s easy to make and feels cozy without being heavy.

Chicken Noodle Soup

The one and only chicken soup on this list, and for good reason. It’s familiar, soothing, and downright comforting. Tender chicken, egg noodles, and a simple broth make this a go-to when you want something classic and dependable.

Lentil Soup

Don’t overlook this one. Lentil soup is filling, affordable, and surprisingly comforting. With onions, carrots, garlic, and spices, it’s a great meatless option that still feels hearty and satisfying.

Vegetable Soup

Simple doesn’t mean boring. A good vegetable soup uses everyday veggies and a flavorful broth to create something warm and nourishing. It’s flexible, forgiving, and perfect for cleaning out the fridge without sacrificing comfort.

Wrapping It All Up

There’s something comforting about sticking with the classics. These soups don’t require fancy ingredients or complicated steps, just a little time and a warm pot on the stove. Whether you’re feeding a family, warming up after a cold day, or simply craving something familiar, these recipes deliver comfort without the stress.

Soup has a way of slowing things down. It invites you to sit, breathe, and enjoy the moment. Keep this roundup handy for those days when you want simple, hearty meals that feel like home.

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.

Winter Tea Blends: Cozy Sips to Get You Through the Cold Months

Posted on December 11, 2025December 12, 2025 by gigis ramblings

winter teas surrounded by oranges and cranberries

When winter hits, you can either fight the cold… or pour yourself something warm and enjoy the season. Winter tea blends do more than taste good — they set a mood, shift your energy, and make your home feel like a sanctuary. Whether you’re into spicy, herbal, fruity, or soothing teas, winter is the perfect time to experiment and find your signature cold-weather brew.

Why Winter Teas Hit Different

Winter blends are usually built around warmth — spices, citrus, herbs, and ingredients that comfort you from the inside out. Many of them support digestion, immunity, and relaxation, which makes them ideal for chilly evenings, holiday chaos, or slow-paced mornings.

Common winter tea ingredients:

Cinnamon
Ginger
Clove
Star anise
Orange peel
Cranberry
Vanilla
Peppermint
Rooibos
Chamomile

1. Spiced Cinnamon Black Tea

If you love bold flavor, this one hits like a warm hug. Black tea gives you the caffeine kick while cinnamon, clove, and orange peel bring that winter spice vibe without tasting like a candle.

How to make:
Black tea + cinnamon stick + 1–2 cloves + orange peel. Brew strong.

Why it works:
Perfect for mornings or late-afternoon slumps when you need warmth and focus.

2. Ginger Citrus Immunity Blend

A powerhouse for cold season. The mix of ginger and lemon supports digestion and immunity, and it tastes clean — not medicinal.

How to make:
Fresh ginger slices + lemon peel + honey (optional) + green or herbal base.

Best for:
Post-holiday detox days, or when you feel a scratchy throat starting.

3. Peppermint Vanilla Rooibos

This one feels like a winter dessert without the sugar. Rooibos is naturally sweet and caffeine-free, and the peppermint/vanilla combo is soothing as hell.

How to make:
Rooibos + peppermint leaves + a dash of vanilla bean or extract.

Best for:
Nighttime sipping, winding down, or pairing with holiday movies.

4. Cranberry Orange Herbal Blend

Bright, fruity, and festive without being childish. The slight tartness from cranberry balances the sweetness of orange.

How to make:
Dried cranberries + dried orange peel + hibiscus + a hint of cinnamon.

Best for:
Holiday gatherings, brunches, or making your kitchen smell amazing.

5. Chai With a Winter Twist

Chai is already a cold-weather classic, but adding a little extra cardamom or star anise gives it seasonal depth.

How to make:
Black tea + chai spices (cinnamon, ginger, clove, cardamom) + star anise + milk.

Best for:
Snowy days, gift-making days, or anytime you need a cozy pick-me-up.

6. Cozy Lavender Chamomile

For your calm nights. Floral, soothing, and perfect when you need to shut the world out.

How to make:
Chamomile + lavender buds + honey.

Best for:
Stressful evenings, bedtime routines, or holiday burnout.

Tips for Building Your Own Winter Blend

Start with a base (black tea, rooibos, green tea, or herbal mix).
Add one strong spice (cinnamon, ginger, clove) so it doesn’t get muddy.
Layer one aromatic (vanilla, mint, lavender).
Finish with a citrus or fruit note (orange, cranberry, apple).
Keep it simple — 3–5 ingredients max is the sweet spot.

Make It a Ritual

Winter tea isn’t just about flavor — it’s a vibe. A moment. A reset.
Pour it into your favorite oversized mug, light a wax melt from Mama Crow’s, warm up the room, and let the season feel intentional instead of chaotic.

Why Winter Teas Hit Different

Common winter tea ingredients:

Cinnamon
Ginger
Clove
Star anise
Orange peel
Cranberry
Vanilla
Peppermint
Rooibos
Chamomile

1. Spiced Cinnamon Black Tea

If you love bold flavor, this one hits like a warm hug. Black tea gives you the caffeine kick while cinnamon, clove, and orange peel bring that winter spice vibe without tasting like a candle.

How to make:
Black tea + cinnamon stick + 1–2 cloves + orange peel. Brew strong.

Why it works:
Perfect for mornings or late-afternoon slumps when you need warmth and focus.

2. Ginger Citrus Immunity Blend

A powerhouse for cold season. The mix of ginger and lemon supports digestion and immunity, and it tastes clean — not medicinal.

How to make:
Fresh ginger slices + lemon peel + honey (optional) + green or herbal base.

Best for:
Post-holiday detox days, or when you feel a scratchy throat starting.

3. Peppermint Vanilla Rooibos

This one feels like a winter dessert without the sugar. Rooibos is naturally sweet and caffeine-free, and the peppermint/vanilla combo is soothing as hell.

How to make:
Rooibos + peppermint leaves + a dash of vanilla bean or extract.

Best for:
Nighttime sipping, winding down, or pairing with holiday movies.

4. Cranberry Orange Herbal Blend

Bright, fruity, and festive without being childish. The slight tartness from cranberry balances the sweetness of orange.

How to make:
Dried cranberries + dried orange peel + hibiscus + a hint of cinnamon.

Best for:
Holiday gatherings, brunches, or making your kitchen smell amazing.

5. Chai With a Winter Twist

Chai is already a cold-weather classic, but adding a little extra cardamom or star anise gives it seasonal depth.

How to make:
Black tea + chai spices (cinnamon, ginger, clove, cardamom) + star anise + milk.

Best for:
Snowy days, gift-making days, or anytime you need a cozy pick-me-up.

6. Cozy Lavender Chamomile

For your calm nights. Floral, soothing, and perfect when you need to shut the world out.

How to make:
Chamomile + lavender buds + honey.

Best for:
Stressful evenings, bedtime routines, or holiday burnout.

Tips for Building Your Own Winter Blend

Start with a base (black tea, rooibos, green tea, or herbal mix).
Add one strong spice (cinnamon, ginger, clove) so it doesn’t get muddy.
Layer one aromatic (vanilla, mint, lavender).
Finish with a citrus or fruit note (orange, cranberry, apple).
Keep it simple — 3–5 ingredients max is the sweet spot.

Make It a Ritual

Books I’m Reading This Winter and Why You’ll Love Them Too

Posted on January 21, 2025January 10, 2025 by gigis ramblings

Image by fotografierende from Pixabay

Winter is the perfect time to cozy up with a good book. I find myself bouncing between actual books and my trusty Kindle Fire. There’s just something about having options! Here are a few of the books I’m diving into this season and why I think you’ll love them too.

Christmas at Silver Falls by Jenny Hale

I’m still finishing up this delightful paperback from my holiday reading. If you’re looking for a sweet, fast read that feels like a Hallmark movie, I highly recommend Christmas at Silver Falls. Jenny Hale has a knack for capturing the magic of Christmas.

The story follows Scarlett Bailey, who has always spent Christmas at her grandparents’ inn at Silver Falls. This year, it might be their last Christmas there, as her family feels her grandma can’t handle running the inn alone anymore. Scarlett hopes for a miracle and maybe some help from Charlie Bryant, a property developer in town. Sparks fly, and it’s the kind of heartwarming tale that makes you believe in holiday miracles. If you’re a sucker for romance and holiday cheer, this book is a must-read.

Murder in Wacky Florida (The Ghost & Camper Kooky Mystery Book 5) by Rita Moreau

For a fun and entertaining mystery, Murder in Wacky Florida has been a joy. This is the fifth book in a series of six, and I’ve been loving every minute of it. If you enjoy kooky mysteries with a twist, you’ll adore Mabel and Irma.

The story features Mabel Gold, a feisty 60-something woman, and a spirited ghost, Irma, as they solve a murder. After driving across the country in an F-150 with a vintage camper in tow, Mabel proves she’s still got it. Whether it’s her Brooklyn smarts or sheer wacky-ness from her new Florida life, she’s ready for anything. It’s a short read, perfect for an airplane flight, and it’ll keep you laughing and guessing until the end.

Millionaire Mindset For Women: Eight Essential Elements to Greater Wealth by May Li

Every morning on the way to drop Santiago off at work, I’ve been diving into Millionaire Mindset For Women by May Li. This book is the perfect morning motivation to kickstart my day on the right foot.

Dr. May Li shares her journey of overcoming limiting beliefs to achieve financial success. Through interviews with millionaires, investing in programs, and applying her knowledge, she discovered that mindset is everything. This book is empowering, practical, and filled with insights that inspire women to chase their multimillionaire dreams. It’s a great read if you’re looking for a boost in financial confidence and a shift in your money mindset.

Vampire Killer: A Terrifying True Story of Psychosis, Mutilation, and Murder by Ryan Green

I always have a true crime book close by, and right now, it’s Vampire Killer by Ryan Green. This gripping account of Richard Chase is one of the most gruesome true crime stories in California’s history.

Ryan Green’s narrative pulls you into the horror experienced by the victims, making it a read you won’t be able to put down. It’s got all the elements of a classic thriller and is perfect for anyone who loves true crime. If you’re into chilling, real-life stories, this book is right up your alley.

So, there you have it! My winter reading list is a mix of holiday cheer, mystery, motivation, and true crime. Whether you’re looking for something heartwarming, funny, inspiring, or downright chilling, there’s something here for you. Happy reading!

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.

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