2025
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The Hidden COVID Mortgage Bailout: What They Buried While Veterans Paid the Price
COVID-19 “mortgage relief” wasn’t relief at all — it was a shield for servicers and a blindfold for the public. Behind the scenes, the CARES Act, the VA Waterfall, and the COVID Refund quietly protected the mortgage industry while veterans were pushed into debt, delinquency, and financial traps they never…
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Welcome to TheLetFreedomRingAmendment.com — A New Home for Truth, Transparency, and Change
Welcome to TheLetFreedomRingAmendment.com, the new home for truth, transparency, and accountability in VA-backed mortgage servicing. This site explains what the amendment is, why it’s urgently needed, and how COVID relief failures created a second crisis for veterans and families. Learn the facts, follow the movement, and join the push for…
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The Bloodline of Courage: From the Mayflower to the Let Freedom Ring Amendment
A powerful reflection on how my Mayflower and American Revolution ancestry connects directly to my modern fight for justice. The courage of my ancestors fuels the Let Freedom Ring Amendment — a movement to protect veterans from systemic failures by Freedom Mortgage and the VA. This isn’t just policy. This…
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When Relief Becomes Ruin
The relief once meant to protect veterans during the COVID-19 crisis has quietly evolved into a second national emergency—one defined by delayed justice, mounting debt, and lost trust. Without Congressional action, the systems built to provide stability may become the very mechanisms that dismantle it.
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Follow the Money: How taxpayer COVID relief  enriched VA servicers-while veterans paid the price  
A deep-dive investigation into how Freedom Mortgage and other VA servicers profited from taxpayer-funded COVID relief programs, exposing Ginnie Mae mass-pooling, hidden modifications, and systemic failures.
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When Help Became Harm: how servicers pushed veterans into prohibited COVID fixes  
Veterans deserve truth and accountability. During COVID, VA issued clear circulars to protect borrowers, but many servicers ignored them—pushing veterans into costly, prohibited outcomes. This investigative piece uncovers how it happened, what changed under the 2025 Reform Act, and why the Let Freedom Ring Amendment is still urgently needed.
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Racial disparities in mortgage outcomes-time to hold lenders accountable 
Black and Hispanic veterans are being denied the fairness they earned. Despite VA-backed protections, new data reveal that veterans of color face far higher mortgage denial rates than their White peers — even from lenders entrusted to serve them. The Let Freedom Ring Amendment calls for accountability, transparency, and justice…
Advocacy for Veterans, Aunty Christine, Black Veterans, CFPB Enforcement, Civil Rights, Consumer Protection, Equal Opportunity, Fair Lending, Financial Equity, Freedom Mortgage Accountability, Hispanic Veterans, Housing Justice, Let Freedom Ring Amendment, Maryland Voices, Mortgage Discrimination, Racial Disparities, Systemic Inequality, VA Loan Guarantee Service, VA Loan Reform, Veteran Homeownership, Veterans Rights -
When the system turns on those who served 
Veterans were promised help during COVID — but many were left behind. The Let Freedom Ring Amendment is our call for justice, fairness, and truth. We hope Senator Chris Van Hollen will sponsor it and help protect veterans from unfair mortgage practices. Learn more or join the movement at www.AuntyChristine.com…
Aunty Christine, Chris Van Hollen, COVID Relief, DMX, Fight For Fairness, Freedom For All, Freedom Mortgage, Homeownership Rights, Housing Inequality, Legislative Reform, Let Freedom Ring, Make It Law, Maryland Politics, Mortgage Justice, Stand With Vets, Starting Over Series, VA Loan, VA Loan Amendment, Veteran Advocacy, Veteran Homeownership, Veteran Support, Veterans Deserve Better, Veterans Rights, Who We Be -
Healed People, Heal People: Dating After Doing the Work
There’s a saying floating around these days: “Healed people, heal people.” And listen, there’s a reason it’s trending. In a world where dating apps feel more like vending machines and red flags are often disguised as “quirky traits,” healing before (or while) dating is a full-blown game changer. The Old…
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So… the Trust Is Broken. Now What?
Let’s not sugarcoat it, when trust breaks in a relationship, it feels like the floor just dropped out from under you. One minute you’re standing strong, the next you’re wondering who you even are to each other anymore. Maybe there was a lie. Maybe there was snooping. Maybe something just…
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Why Are You Looking Through My Phone? (And Other Boundary-Busting Behaviors We Need to Talk About)
Alright, friends. Pull up a chair, pour a cup of tea—or wine, I’m not judging—and let’s talk about something that’s been on my heart (and my lock screen): privacy in relationships. More specifically—when someone goes through your phone without asking. Now, I don’t care if you’re married, dating, engaged, divorced-but-still-talking,…
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Robots Took My Job: The Real Tea on AI & the Future of Work
Hey, hons! Let’s talk about something a little less “fun and flirty” and a little more “uh-oh, should I be worried?”Artificial Intelligence (AI) and how it’s creeping into our work lives like a nosy neighbor with a key to your house. Now, before you clutch your pearls and start yelling…
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Self-Care Isn’t Selfish—It’s the Secret Sauce to Mental Wellness
Mental Health & Relationships Series Let’s be real for a second. When someone says “self-care,” most of us picture candles, cucumbers on the eyes, or a frothy lavender-scented bubble bath while lo-fi beats play in the background. That’s cute and all… but according to therapist and mental health expert David…
Aunty Christine, boundaries, burnout prevention, counseling, David Yeager, emotional wellness, healing journey, holistic health, mental health awareness, mental wellness tips, mental-health, mindfulness, personal growth, relationships and wellness, self-care, setting boundaries, stress management, therapy, Tortally Therapeutics, trauma-informed care -
Aunty Christine, Minister of Mischief and Matrimony: How I Got Ordained and You Can Too
You may know me as Aunty Christine, your go-to gal for backyard shenanigans, and strong opinions served with a wink and a smile. But did you know I’m also a legally ordained minister? Yep. In 2018, I became a wedding officiant through the Universal Life Church (ULC), and it all…
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When Something Feels Off: Trusting Your Gut in a World That Gaslights You
There’s a certain kind of silence that creeps into your mind when something just doesn’t feel right. It’s not dramatic. It’s not loud. But it’s there…tugging, tapping, whispering, “Pay attention.” And still, you second-guess yourself. Because they say you’re too sensitive. Too emotional. Too intense. Too much. So you soften…
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Just Friends… or Just Sneaky? When “Friendship” Becomes a Secret in Your Relationship
Let’s not sugarcoat it: if your partner doesn’t know about your “friend,” then it’s not just friendship—it’s a secret. Now don’t get me wrong. Aunty Christine is all about people having rich, full lives with friends outside their romantic relationship. But when someone keeps an opposite-sex friendship hidden, vague, or…
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Starting the Conversation: Red Flags in Early Dating – What to Watch For
Part of the Mental Health & Relationships Series with David Yeager, LCSW-C Welcome to the first installment of our new blog series, where Aunty Christine gets real about the tricky terrain of dating, love, and everything in between—with a little expert help from David Yeager, LCSW-C, at Tortally Therapeutics. So…
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From Wolf to Wigglebutt: The Glorious Evolution of Dogs
Let’s talk about man’s best friend. Or, as I like to call them: the four-legged freeloaders who steal our hearts, our snacks, and 90% of the bed. Yep, dogs. But have you ever paused while kissing their adorable little forehead and thought, How did we get here? How did a…
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Diddy on Trial: The Witnesses, The Testimony, and the Pattern That Can’t Be Ignored
For weeks now, the trial of Sean “Diddy” Combs has been unfolding in a federal courtroom in New York. The charges are serious: sex trafficking, racketeering conspiracy, and transporting individuals to engage in prostitution. Below is a detailed list of the key witnesses who’ve taken the stand so far—and what…
#MeToo, Aunty Christine blog, believe women, Cassie Ventura testimony, celebrity accountability, cultural reckoning, Diddy trial, feminist blog, feminist perspective, justice for survivors, Me Too, midlife feminism, power and abuse, public figures on trial, Sean Combs, sex trafficking trial, survivor voices, trial updates, witness testimony, women’s rights -
My Closet Is Gaslighting Me
There was a time, not all that long ago, when my closet and I had a solid understanding. I bought the clothes. It held the clothes. And together, we made a reasonable attempt at fashion and function. But lately? I open those closet doors and it’s like I’ve stumbled into…
Aunty Christine blog, body changes after 40, closet cleanout, closet confessions, comfort over trends, elastic waistbands forever, fashion freedom, fashion rebellion, funny blog post, Gen X humor, midlife confidence, midlife fashion, no more skinny jeans, perimenopause style, personal style evolution, real talk for women, redefining sexy, Starting Over at 47, wardrobe detox, women’s midlife makeover -
Ghost Signs of Baltimore: The City’s Faded Echoes Still Speaking
There’s something hauntingly beautiful about the old advertisements you’ll find painted on the brick walls of buildings across Baltimore. They’re not fresh murals or trendy street art, they’re the faded echoes of a bygone era. These vintage hand-painted ads, often referred to as ghost signs, once shouted from the rooftops…
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When Boundaries Feel Like Suggestions (And You’re Tired of Repeating Yourself)
You ever lay down a boundary just to watch someone treat it like a speed bump? Yeah, me too. Let’s get one thing straight: boundaries are not invitations for negotiation. They are not “cute little requests” or things you throw out just to see if someone will respect them. They…
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Boundaries, Jealousy, and Insecurity: Know the Difference
Let’s get something straight: setting boundaries does not make you insecure. And feeling jealous doesn’t automatically mean you’re crazy. And having insecurities? Welcome to being human. The thing is, these three often get lumped into the same messy bucket, but they’re not the same, and knowing the difference can save…
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Her.
Some people just say “Mom,” like it’s a regular word. But for me, it was always her. She was the first face I looked for in a crowd, the last voice I heard before falling asleep. She was the one I wanted to tell when something went wrong, and the…
Aunty Christine blog, forever her, grief and healing, grief on holidays, healing after loss, heartfelt reflections, honoring her memory, losing a mother, love and loss, maternal love, midlife emotions, mother daughter bond, Mother’s Day without mom, navigating loss, personal growth, remembering her, remembering mom, Starting Over at 47, two year anniversary of loss, women over 40 -
Dopamine Decor: Designing Spaces That Spark Joy (and Keep Me Sane)
You know what nobody tells you when you’re starting over in midlife? That your environment matters. A lot. I’m not just talking about tossing out your ex’s old recliner or finally repainting that mustard-yellow bathroom. I’m talking full-on joy-infused, spirit-lifting, dopamine-boosting magic in your home. Welcome to the world of…
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Integrity or Bust (Because I’m Too Grown for Anything Less)
Let me just say it plain: I want integrity in my life, and I’m not willing to settle for anything less. At this point in the game, 47 years old, freshly navigating a divorce, starting over in just about every area of my life, I don’t have the energy or…
Aunty Christine blog, authentic relationships, boundaries and standards, character over convenience, choosing real, clarity is power, emotional healing, emotional maturity, Gen X perspective, honesty and values, integrity lifestyle, integrity matters, intentional living, life lessons, living with integrity, midlife mindset, midlife wisdom, moral compass, no more settling, personal growth, personal power, protecting your peace, radical honesty, real talk, self worth, self-respect, Starting Over at 47, truth over trends, unapologetic living, values that guide me -
Tiny Wings, Big Peace: How Birdwatching Became My Therapy
I didn’t expect to fall head over heels for a bird feeder. Honestly, I bought it on a whim, just another late-night scroll-and-click moment on Amazon. But what I thought would just be a simple backyard decoration turned out to be something so much more. It became my daily dose…
Aunty Christine blog, backyard birds, bird feeder blog, bird feeder camera, bird feeder therapy, bird watching joy, birds of Maryland, comfort in routine, daily rituals, emotional healing, feathered friends, finding calm, Gen X wellness, healing after divorce, healing through nature, mental health support, midlife healing, mindfulness in nature, nature as therapy, outdoor joy, peaceful moments, perky-pet bird feeder, personal growth, quirky healing methods, reconnecting with nature, self-care ideas, simple pleasures, solo journey healing, Starting Over at 47, unexpected happiness -
What Mother’s Day Really Means to Me Now
Let’s talk about Mother’s Day, shall we? Every second Sunday in May, the world gets flooded with commercials featuring flowers, brunch menus, and perfect families with matching smiles. And don’t get me wrong, I love a good mimosa and a heartfelt card. But when you’ve lived a few decades, lost…
Anna Jarvis, Aunty Christine blog, bittersweet holidays, complicated holidays, dog mom life, emotional healing, family traditions, generational love, grief and loss, healing after loss, heartfelt reflections, Honoring My Mom, legacy of love, life after loss, matriarch energy, Midlife Reflections, mom memories, mother-daughter love, Mother’s Day, Mother’s Day history, Mother’s Day meaning, motherhood, motherhood journey, personal growth, real talk for women, remembering mom, sentimental moments, Starting Over at 47, stepmom feelings, women over 40 -
Starting Over at 47: Digital Decluttering — Why I’m Unsubscribing, Unfollowing, and Untangling My Brain
You know what I realized the other day? My phone has become a junk drawer for my brain. Seriously. I opened my email and had 6,413 unread messages. Most of them were from places I haven’t shopped at for years. I opened Instagram and saw a post from someone I…
Aunty Christine blog, clearing mental space, digital boundaries, digital decluttering, digital detox, digital minimalism, email overload, everyday empowerment, Gen X women, intentional living, Life Reset, mental clutter, midlife clarity, Midlife Transformation, mindfulness in midlife, minimalist mindset, online boundaries, overwhelmed by tech, peaceful mornings, perimenopause and peace, reclaiming time, screen time balance, self-care for women, simplifying life, slowing down, smartphone sanity, social media break, Starting Over at 47, tech overwhelm, unsubscribe culture -
Starting Over at 47 – When Loved Ones Have Secret Lives
One of the hardest things I’ve ever had to come to terms with is realizing that someone I love, someone who is right there, breathing the same air, sharing the same town, the same world, has a whole secret life that I was never going to be a part of.…
complicated relationships, coping with hidden truths, emotional healing, facing hard realities, family betrayal, healing while staying, learning to trust yourself, life transitions, living authentically, living with betrayal, Midlife Transformation, protecting your peace, rebuilding trust, relationships and truth, secret lives, self-worth after betrayal, setting boundaries, Starting Over at 47, surviving emotional betrayal, trust and resilience -
Starting Over at 47 – Building Trust Again (When You’ve Been Burned Before)
Let’s talk about trust. Not the kind you read about in romance novels, where two people lock eyes and suddenly the world melts away and they just know they can rely on each other. No. I’m talking about real-world, gut-check, shaky-hands kind of trust. The kind you have to rebuild…
boundaries and healing, emotional healing, healing after betrayal, healing journey, inner strength, learning to trust again, life transitions, mature love, midlife relationships, personal growth, protecting your peace, rebuilding trust, relationship wisdom, Second Chances, self trust, self worth, starting fresh, Starting Over at 47, trust after divorce, trusting yourself -
Dolly’s Thoughtful (and Slightly Gross) Gifts
If you’ve ever had a dog with a very generous heart (and a slightly wild streak), then you’ll understand the mix of emotions that comes with receiving a “gift” from them. I’m not talking about a squeaky toy or a shoe dragged out of the closet. Oh no. I’m talking…
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Starting Over at 47 – Life Without a Steering Wheel (And Why I’m Not Mad About It)
So… I sold my car two days ago. Just like that, keys handed over, title signed, and poof, one more piece of my old life officially in the rearview. (No pun intended. Okay, maybe a little.) I thought it might feel like a big deal. A loss. A “wow, this…
anxiety and driving, anxious driver, choosing a slower life, chronic illness journey, cozy living, embracing stillness, finding peace, homebody life, hyperadrenergic POTS, letting go of the past, life transitions, life without a car, midlife changes, Midlife Transformation, minimalist lifestyle, post-divorce life, redefining freedom, selling my car, simple living, Starting Over at 47 -
Starting Over at 47 – Making Space for Joy (Even When Everything Feels Uncertain)
There’s something really powerful about the quiet decision to let joy back into your life, especially when everything else feels messy, uncertain, or downright upside down. I didn’t always know how to do that. For a long time, I was in survival mode. Grief had taken up all the oxygen…
backyard joy, comfort and joy, coping with uncertainty, cozy living, dog mom life, embracing change, emotional healing, finding happiness again, finding peace at home, healing after loss, hyperadrenergic POTS, joy in everyday life, Life After Divorce, life with chronic illness, living with grief, love and loss, Midlife Transformation, mom memories, pet therapy, Starting Over at 47 -
A Deep Dive into the Gen X Woman’s Sexual Awakening, Confusion, and Reclamation
Okay, Gen X sisters. Let’s have a heart-to-heart. Let’s talk about how we actually learned about sex. Spoiler alert: it wasn’t during some sweet, coming-of-age moment with a parent lovingly explaining the birds and the bees while handing us a pamphlet and a hug. Nope. For most of us? It…
Aunty Christine blog, body confidence, embracing desire, female desire, Gen X identity, Gen X women, generational differences, healing shame, midlife relationships, midlife sexuality, perimenopause and sex, real talk for women, reclaiming sexuality, sensuality after 40, sex and aging, sexual empowerment, sexual freedom, sexual healing, Starting Over at 47, taboo topics, women over 40, women’s liberation -
What Easter Means to Me Now
Happy Easter Sunday, sweet friends. It’s early morning, and we’re only just beginning to toss around ideas for how the day will unfold. No grand plans. No strict agenda. Just coffee in hand and the familiar feeling of spring in the air. Yesterday we spent most of the day outside—yard…
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The Weird Grief of Watching Your Childhood Neighborhood Change
We drove through my old neighborhood recently , and let me tell you, I was not emotionally prepared. There I was, sipping my iced coffee like it was just another Tuesday, when suddenly we turned down the street I grew up on and felt like I’d accidentally went onto a…
baltimore stories, childhood memories, city life changes, federal hill, finding yourself, grief and nostalgia, letting go of the past, midlife reflection, Midlife Transformation, neighborhood changes, personal growth, reclaiming identity, sentimental journey, south baltimore, starting fresh, Starting Over at 47 -
When Love Comes with Kids (and Complications)
Dating in your twenties: Cute. Dating in your thirties: Strategic. Dating in your forties and beyond? Whew, baby—that is a full-contact sport. Now toss in a few kids—his and yours—and you’re not just dating a person. You’re attempting to merge two entire universes. And sometimes? Those universes want absolutely nothing…
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Waiting on Grandma Time (Even Though It’s Not Anytime Soon)
By Aunty Christine – your favorite not-yet-grandma with a whole lot of dreams and not a single diaper to change just yet Let me tell you a little secret— Sometimes, late at night, after the dogs are snoring and Oscar’s finally put his phone down for five whole minutes, I…
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The Art of Letting Go (When You Were Never Taught How)
Nobody teaches you how to let go. Not really. We learn how to hold on—tight. To grudges. To people. To memories. To jeans that haven’t fit since the Obama administration. Somewhere along the line, especially if you grew up in a family that survived more than it thrived, the message…
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Who Am I Without the Chaos?
It hit me the other morning. I was sipping my coffee—Oscar had already brought it to me in bed like he always does—and I realized… the house was quiet. Not just quiet quiet, but peaceful. No one arguing downstairs. No one stomping around. No doors slamming or text messages full…
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Reliability Is the New Sexy
Let’s just go ahead and say it loud for the people in the back: reliability is the new sexy. I know, I know—there was a time when I would’ve rolled my eyes at that kind of talk. Back in the day, I chased butterflies, confusion, and chaos disguised as passion.…
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Starting Over at 47 – Perimenopause, New Beginnings, and Finding My Footing
Hello, my beauties! Today, I want to talk about something that has been a significant part of my journey lately: perimenopause. Perimenopause is the phase leading up to menopause, where our bodies begin to transition and hormone levels fluctuate. It’s like puberty’s older, sassier sister who shows up uninvited and…
decreased libido, emotional well-being, health and wellness, hormonal fluctuations, hot flashes, irregular periods, lifestyle adjustments, menopause transition, midlife changes, midlife journey, mood swings, night sweats, perimenopause, self-care, sleep disturbances, Starting Over at 47, support network, vaginal dryness, women’s health -
Baltimore Babble: Old Wives’ Tales from South Baltimore That We All Grew Up With
If you grew up in South Baltimore like I did, chances are you’ve heard your fair share of strange warnings, mystical cures, and absolutely bizarre bits of advice passed down from the neighborhood aunties, your Nan, or the lady next door who smoked menthols and knew everything. Whether they made…
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Starting Over at 47 – All the Things They Don’t Tell You About Starting Over in Midlife
There’s a lot of talk these days about fresh starts—new chapters, reinvention, living your truth. But starting over in midlife? That’s a whole different kind of journey. It’s not glamorous. It’s not a perfectly filtered before-and-after. It’s raw, quiet, and often happens in moments no one else sees. No one…
emotional healing, finding peace, Fresh Start, Grief and Growth, healing journey, letting go, Life After Divorce, midlife loneliness, midlife reinvention, Midlife Transformation, new beginnings, personal growth, rebuilding trust, reclaiming independence, redefining identity, rediscovering yourself, Second Chances, self discovery, starting fresh, Starting Over at 47 -
Starting Over at 47 – The Beach Is Calling
Somewhere out there, there’s a breeze with my name on it. I can feel it calling me lately—soft and salty, full of second chances and new beginnings. I’ve always loved the beach, but now it feels like something more. Not just a place I’d like to visit. A place I…
beach house goals, beach life dreams, coastal living, dreaming of the beach, emotional healing, finding peace, freedom after divorce, Fresh Start, healing journey, leaving the past behind, letting go, life transitions, midlife clarity, midlife reinvention, moving on, new beginnings, personal growth, rediscovering happiness, starting a new chapter, Starting Over at 47 -
Starting Over at 47 – Collateral Damage
If you’ve ever found yourself hurting over something that wasn’t your choice… I see you. If you’ve had your peace disrupted by someone else’s unresolved chaos—you’re not alone. Starting over in midlife comes with its own set of growing pains. Some are expected, like figuring out your next career move…
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Starting Over at 47 – What Loss Taught Me About Love and Loyalty
If you had asked me a few years ago what family meant to me, I would have said everything. Family was the center of my world—especially my mom. She was the heart of it all. Her love grounded me, her strength guided me, and her presence made everything feel okay.…
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Starting Over at 47 – Letting Go of the Timeline: There’s No Deadline for Reinvention
If you had asked me five years ago where I’d be today, I wouldn’t have guessed this. Divorced (again), living upstairs in a house I used to share with someone I thought I’d grow old with, rebuilding my life from the ground up… and yet, somehow, I’m more myself now…
breaking societal norms, embracing change, Fresh Start, healing journey, letting go of expectations, Life After Divorce, living on your own terms, Midlife Empowerment, midlife reinvention, personal growth, reclaiming your life, redefining success, self discovery, Starting Over at 47, women starting over -
Starting Over at 47 – Making Peace With My Body
Let’s talk about something real for a minute—our bodies. Or more specifically, my body. It’s been through a lot with me. Three marriages, two kids, surgeries, heartbreak, grief, love, stress, joy, moves, dancing, growing babies, growing gardens—you name it. And for most of that time, I talked to it like…
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Starting Over at 47 – Redefining What Home Means to Me
So here I am—47 years old, going through a divorce, and moving back into the upstairs part of my own house. It’s funny, isn’t it? You think you know what “home” is supposed to feel like… until it doesn’t anymore. And then one day, you wake up, and you’re no…
creating new routines, divorce recovery, Emotional Decluttering, emotional healing, Fresh Start, healing journey, home makeover after divorce, letting go, life after separation, Midlife Transformation, peaceful living, personal growth, rebuilding life, reclaiming your space, redefining home, Second Chances, self discovery, starting fresh, Starting Over at 47, women starting over -
Starting Over at 47 – How Jenny Is Helping Me Take Back My Life
Starting over looks different for everyone. For some, it means a new job. For others, it’s letting go of old relationships, moving somewhere new, or even just waking up one morning and deciding, “I want better for myself.” For me, it’s all of that. And then some. I’ve been through…
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Starting Over at 47 – The Hidden Layers of Divorce
Whew. I never thought I’d be here, sitting on my bed, coffee in hand, trying to explain to someone that I’m getting divorced—again. And not just any divorce—this is my third one. And I’m 47, turning 48 this July. Some days I laugh about it, like, “Well damn, third time’s…
divorce after 40, divorce and self discovery, emotional healing, family estrangement, finding peace, healing from betrayal, letting go, life after heartbreak, Life Reset, midlife resilience, Midlife Transformation, Moving Forward, new beginnings at 47, rebuilding after divorce, reclaiming your life, solo journey, starting over in midlife, surviving divorce, third divorce journey, women starting over -
What Losing My Dog Taught Me About Unconditional Love
A love letter to my sweet Lady Let me tell you something—losing a dog? It rips your heart out, tosses it in the dryer with a pile of emotional laundry, and then sets the whole thing on fire. Dramatic? Maybe. Accurate? Absolutely. A few weeks ago, I had to say…
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Starting Over at 47 – I Am Not Who I Was—And That’s a Good Thing
One of the hardest parts about starting over is realizing you’ve outgrown the person you used to be. Not because she wasn’t strong. Not because she wasn’t doing her best. But because you’re not her anymore—and honestly? That’s the point. People will try to remind you of who you used…
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Starting Over at 47 – Redefining Career Success on My Own Terms
If you had asked me ten years ago what success looked like in my career, I probably would have rattled off a checklist: steady paycheck, promotions, job security, respect, and maybe a fancy title that made people nod approvingly when I said it out loud. But now, at 47, the…
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Starting Over at 47: Learning to Trust Myself Again
Trust isn’t something that magically returns overnight. It’s something you slowly rebuild, moment by moment, especially after years of second-guessing yourself or feeling like your decisions were never fully your own. That’s the season I’m in—relearning how to trust me. Starting over at 47 has meant unpacking a lot of…
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Starting Over at 47 – Finding Joy in the Little Things Again
You know what I’ve realized lately? Starting over doesn’t always look like some grand reinvention. Sometimes, it looks like sitting on the back porch with a cup of coffee, watching the sun peek through the trees. It looks like laughing until I can’t breathe over a silly inside joke with…
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Starting Over at 47 – When They Can’t Handle Your Healing
Not everyone will cheer for you when you start to rise. That’s been one of the hardest and most heartbreaking lessons in this chapter of my life. As I’ve worked to rebuild, realign, and rediscover myself—some of the people I thought would be in my corner have either fallen silent…
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Starting over at 47 – The Day I Stopped Driving
Some days, starting over looks like falling in love again. Other days? It looks like putting down the car keys for good. It’s been over a year since I stopped driving, and believe me, I didn’t come to that decision lightly. I’ve always been the kind of person who loves…
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Starting Over at 47 — Releasing Guilt, Shame, and the ‘Should Haves’
Starting over sounds brave on paper. But what they don’t tell you is how often it comes tangled up in guilt, shame, and a never-ending loop of “I should have known better.” I’ve thought it more times than I can count. I should have left sooner. I should have fought…
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Starting Over at 47 — Reclaiming My Space, Room by Room
There’s something deeply emotional — even spiritual — about reclaiming the space you live in after someone else has left it behind. For me, it wasn’t just about moving upstairs. It was about moving forward. After former occupants moved out (I’ve had 7 people living under my roof at one…
Aunty Christine Chronicles, Creating Peaceful Spaces, Emotional Decluttering, Fresh Energy, Grief and Growth, Healing Through Home, Home as Healing, Honoring My Mom, letting go, Midlife Transformation, Personal Sanctuary, Reclaiming My Space, Rediscovering Home, Sorting Through Memories, Starting Over at 47 -
Starting Over at 47 (Almost 48) — And Honestly? It Feels Empowering
If someone had told me I’d be starting over at 47 — soon to be 48 — I would’ve assumed they meant something like a new hairstyle or trying yoga again. Not a full-blown life reset. Yet here I am, in 2025, flipping the script on what this age is…
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The Day I Stopped Caring What People Think (and Got Happier Because of It)
I used to worry a lot about what people thought of me. What I said, what I wore, who I dated, how I lived. It was like carrying around a backpack full of other people’s opinions—and let me tell you, it was heavy. Then one day, something shifted. Maybe it…
Aunty Christine, bold choices, confidence, dropping expectations, emotional healing, empowerment, finding peace, golden hour mindset, grief and strength, healing journey, inspirational blog, letting go, living for yourself, living unapologetically, mental clarity, personal growth, self-acceptance, self-love, stop caring what others think, unapologetic living -
When DMX Meets Metalcore
Lately, I’ve been thinking about how much I love metalcore music—and then randomly, one of DMX’s old songs came on, and I felt that same guttural energy I get from a breakdown. And then it hit me: DMX is metalcore in rap form. No seriously—hear me out. Both metalcore and…
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Yes, I’m in the Mayflower Society—and No, I Don’t Own Pilgrim Shoes 😆
So, here’s something you don’t hear every day while sipping your morning coffee: I’m a card-carrying member of the Mayflower Society. Yup. That Mayflower. The boat. The Pilgrims. The buckle-shoes and bonnets bunch who crossed the Atlantic with nothing but hope, grit, and zero understanding of personal space. But for…
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Coffee in Bed and the Power of Slow Mornings
Every morning, sometime between 3 and 5 a.m., I wake up. Not to an alarm clock. Not to chaos. But to the quiet sound of Oscar bringing me a fresh cup of coffee, still steaming, delivered with a kind smile while I’m still tucked in bed. It’s such a simple…
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Boundaries & Manipulators – Because Not Today, Satan
Let’s talk about boundaries. Not the picket-fence kind or the imaginary line that separates your flower bed from your nosy neighbor’s. I’m talking about the personal kind—the ones that help us protect our peace, energy, and sanity. You know, the kind that makes people squint at you like you’ve just…
boundaries, confidence, dealing with manipulators, emotional boundaries, emotional wellness, empowerment, guilt-free living, healing, healthy relationships, inner peace, letting go, mental health, mental-health, personal growth, protect your peace, relationships, saying no, self-care, self-respect, setting boundaries, toxic relationships -
The Art of a Perfectly Cooked Burger: My Take on the Best Backyard Meal
There are few things in life more satisfying than biting into a perfectly cooked burger. The juicy patty, the toasted bun, the perfect balance of toppings—it’s a backyard classic that never gets old. But let’s be real, not all burgers are created equal. Some are legendary, while others… well, let’s…
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Pickin’ Eggs and Pickin’ Memories
An Ode to a Family Easter Tradition When I think about Easter growing up, I don’t immediately picture chocolate bunnies or big pastel baskets. Nope. For me, Easter always meant family, food, and one very specific tradition: picking eggs. Or as some might know it, egg tapping. Now if you’ve…
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Slow and Steady Healing: Real Talk About Mental Health
Let’s take a moment to get real—mental health isn’t always pretty, and it’s definitely not predictable. Life has a sneaky way of throwing curveballs just when you think you’re finally getting your footing. I’ve been through it—multiple losses, heartbreak, betrayal, and just… existing in the aftermath of it all. And…
Aunty Christine, coping with grief, emotional wellness, grief and loss, healing after loss, healing journey, mental health, mental health awareness, mental health support, mental resilience, overcoming loss, personal growth, self-care, self-compassion, self-love, slow healing, therapy, Tortally Therapeutics, wellness reminder -
10 Things That Instantly Put Me in a Good Mood
Life can be chaotic, stressful, and full of those ugh moments that make you want to hide under a blanket. But no matter how rough the day is, there are always little things that can turn it around in an instant. Some are simple, some are silly, but all of…
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Backyard Movie Nights: How to Create the Ultimate Outdoor Theater
There’s something magical about watching a movie under the stars. The cool evening air, cozy blankets, and the glow of the screen make for a perfect night of entertainment—without ever leaving home. A backyard movie night is one of those experiences that’s simple to set up but feels extra special…
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Why I Love Metalcore: A Soundtrack for the Soul
Music has always been more than just background noise for me—it’s a form of expression, a way to process emotions, and sometimes, the only thing that truly understands what I’m feeling. And when it comes to finding music that hits me on a deep, personal level, nothing does it quite…
aggressive and melodic, alternative rock, Architects, best metalcore bands, emotional lyrics, heavy music, heavy music fans, I Prevail, metalcore, metalcore bands, music as therapy, music that resonates, personal connection to music, raw emotions in music, rock music, Spiritbox, The Amity Affliction, why I love metalcore -
Mimosas, Pedicures, and the Perfect Weekend
Some weekends are just meant to be savored—filled with simple joys, little indulgences, and moments that make you smile long after they’re over. This past weekend? Definitely one of those. Kicking Off the Weekend with a Little Self-Care It all started with something I never thought I’d witness: Oscar’s first-ever…
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Countdown to Adventure: Aunty Christine’s RV Retirement Plan
Hey there, my delightful wanderers! Guess who officially applied for a passport today? That’s right, your beloved Aunty Christine! Cue the drumroll, confetti, and overly excited dance moves! It’s true—I’m gearing up for a grand adventure: trading in my cozy little nest (that I’ve lovingly occupied since December 2015) for…
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The Art of Doing Absolutely Nothing (A Skill I’ve Perfected Thanks to POTS)
The Art of Doing Absolutely Nothing (A Skill I’ve Perfected Thanks to POTS) Hey, hons! Let’s talk about something truly magical—the fine art of doing absolutely nothing. Some people might call it laziness, but I prefer to think of it as energy conservation. See, some of us don’t just want…
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Living Life on the Goofy Side: Embracing Laughter, Playfulness, and Pure Silliness
If there’s one thing you should know about me, it’s that I don’t take life too seriously. Sure, I handle my responsibilities, juggle a million things at once, and deal with all the chaos life throws my way, but at my core? I’m a goofy, silly, laughter-loving whirlwind of mischief.…
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One thing about me that most people probably wouldn’t understand is how deeply my sense of family and loyalty has been shaped by everything I’ve been through—especially after my mother’s passing.
People might not realize just how much that loss changed me. It wasn’t just grief; it was a shift in my entire world. The betrayals, the distance from certain family members, the way relationships unraveled—it all left scars. But at the same time, it taught me who truly belongs in…
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A New Chapter in the Making
Life has a funny way of reshaping itself, doesn’t it? Just when you think you have a plan, the universe nudges you in a different direction. Lately, I’ve been feeling the pull of change—of new beginnings, fresh starts, and maybe even a little adventure. Oscar and I are settling into…
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The Unwritten Rules of Grocery Shopping Chaos
Hons, let’s talk about an everyday battlefield: the grocery store. I don’t know what happens when people step inside, but it’s like they forget how to function as normal human beings. Suddenly, shopping carts become demolition vehicles, produce sections turn into gladiator arenas, and self-checkout machines develop an attitude problem.…
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The Case for Napping: Why Aunty Christine Declares War on Productivity
Listen up, hons—it’s time we have a serious discussion about something very near and dear to my heart: naps. That’s right. The glorious, snooze-filled, midday mini-vacations that society has tried to rob from us in the name of productivity. For too long, we’ve been told that hustle culture is the…
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Cobra Kai Fan Night: Karate Kicks, Commentary, and Couch Comedy
Oscar and I have found our newest guilty pleasure—binge-watching Cobra Kai. As huge fans of the original Karate Kid movies, we’ve embraced our inner karate masters, complete with plenty of sofa-bound “training” sessions and lively commentary. Our nights usually start out innocent enough: snacks ready, comfy pillows fluffed, and Netflix…
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Puppy Parenting Adventures: Tales of Jenny, Dolly, and Endless Mischief
When I brought home Jenny, my sweet Chihuahua-Pomeranian mix, I envisioned calm days filled with cuddles and serene strolls through the backyard. Reality quickly set in when Dolly, the energetic Corgi, entered the scene, turning my peaceful puppy parenting dreams into delightful chaos. Jenny, my tiny cuddle buddy, tries her…
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From City Girl to Garden Goddess: My Backyard Transformation Adventures
Growing up in bustling Federal Hill, Baltimore, I thought the closest thing to gardening was watching weeds push through cracks in the sidewalk. Backyards were rare, and if you had even a tiny patch of grass, you were practically royalty. Fast forward to today, and here I am, reigning supreme…
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Introduction
Hello, Hon! Let the Absurdity Begin! Well hello there, you magnificent creature! If you’ve somehow stumbled into this gloriously goofy corner of the internet, allow me to extend the warmest (and silliest) of welcomes to AuntyChristine.com! Consider this your official invitation to a realm where the serious takes a backseat,…
