100 Random Facts About Me: Get to Know Me Better

I loved it when it was trendy for bloggers (back in the day) to post 100 random facts about ourselves. Since my original post has been lost to cyberspace, I decided to come up with a new 100 (current) random facts about me—including some real, unfiltered stuff.

You’ll discover everything from my faith journey and career reinventions to hard-won lessons about boundaries and self-worth. Plus quirky truths—like why I believe salt water cures everything and why I finally stopped redecorating the Christmas tree after the kids went to bed.

Ready to jump into some super random facts about me? Let’s go!

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100 Random Facts About Me: Things About Me (Just for Fun)

Ready to get to know me better? Here are 100 random facts about me—the real, unfiltered, sometimes quirky truth about who I am.

1. My name is Christine Mathews.

Fun fact number one: Christine with a C -Mathews with one “T” 🙂

2. I am currently 62 years old.

Getting older is weird, right? Some days I still feel 25 in my head, and then I catch a glimpse of myself in the mirror and think, “Who is that woman?” But here’s the truth: growing old is a privilege denied to many, and I don’t take a single year for granted.

3. I Was born in Iowa.

Lemars, Iowa, is known as the Blue Bunny Capital of the World. Although I didn’t grow up there, we used to visit family there in the summers.

The people in Iowa are some of the best you’ll ever meet. Some of my best childhood memories are of summer days spent in Lemars, Iowa.

4. The Most Random Fact About Me.

I was the first girl born in 1963 ( In Plymouth County, Iowa). How’s that for random? My Mother and I were even on the front page of the newspaper. I will try to dig up the photo.

5. I am the Oldest of Two.

I have one sister. (love you). I always wished we had had a brother. But you get what you get, and don’t throw a fit.

6. I grew up in two completely different worlds

We lived in Malibu, California, until my freshman year of high school—yes, that Malibu. Beach life, sunshine, that laid-back California vibe. Then we moved to Washington State, where I lived until my late 20s.

The contrast was jarring. From endless sunshine and ocean views to gray skies and rain for months on end. From flip-flops to rain boots. From beach culture to evergreen forests. Both places shaped who I am, but in completely different ways.

Malibu taught me to appreciate natural beauty and gave me my lifelong love of the beach. Washington taught me resilience, adaptability, and how to find joy even when the sun doesn’t shine for weeks

7. I have Been Married Twice and Divorced Once.

Getting married when you are 20 is just not a good idea.

8. My husband and I Were Married in 1989.

After a whirlwind courtship (less than four months), we jumped into the deep end of life with both feet in the last year of the 80s.

We’ve raised four kids and have five beautiful grandchildren. We’ve lived in three states together and built our forever home in 2019.

We hope to buy an RV when we retire and hit the road running in the summertime. (It’s hot here in Arizona…)

Here’s one of my favorite pictures of us together at our Son’s wedding.

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9. I’m a Mama to Four Beautiful Children.

Two Boys and two girls (ages 40-17!) Being a Mother is the best thing about my life. My children bring me immeasurable joy every single day of my life.

10. Our youngest Daughter was Born in Ethiopia

We expanded our family through international adoption and brought her home to be a part of our family forever in 2010. #adoptionrocks

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11. I have Two Babies Waiting on Me in Heaven.

My first and third pregnancies sadly ended in miscarriage.If you or someone you know needs support after suffering a miscarriage, this is a great resource.

12. The Grandma Life is the Best Life

We are blessed with five beautiful grandchildren. 3 girls and two boys. Being a Grandmother is my favorite thing. My Grandma name is Ahmmie. What’s yours?

13. Saved by Grace.

I accepted Jesus Christ as my Lord and Savior in 1992 in my late twenties, and my life hasn’t been the same since. He is my true north—I run to Him when I need help, feel lonely, or need guidance.

My faith shapes everything I do, from how I navigate complicated relationships to how I practice daily gratitude and extend forgiveness (to myself and others).

Want to learn more about what I believe? Check out my statement of faith.

14. I have lived in five states.

Iowa, California, Washington, Texas, and Arizona (twice!). Each move taught me something valuable about adaptability and starting over.

Moving cross-country multiple times has made me really good at making new friends in unfamiliar places and building a life from scratch.

It’s also taught me that “home” isn’t just a place—it’s the people you surround yourself with and the life you intentionally create wherever you land. #bloomwhereyouareplanted

15. I currently live in Arizona.

Some like it hot! And by hot, I mean 115°F in the summer. But you know what? It’s a dry heat. 😊

I genuinely love desert living—the dramatic sunsets, the wide-open skies, the fact that I can grow citrus trees in my backyard and wear shorts all year long if I want to.

16. I have a green thumb.

To date, I have 41 plant babies in my house, and yes, I know all their names. #crazyplantlady

Caring for plants is incredibly therapeutic for me—it’s like meditation with dirt under your fingernails.

There’s something deeply satisfying about nurturing something and watching it thrive. Plus, houseplants improve air quality, boost your mood, and make your space feel alive.

Related: Check out my Housplant 101 Articles

17. I am artsy-craftsy.

And, love getting my hands dirty—whether it’s mosaic art, painting, gardening, photography, or DIY home projects. I thrive on making something out of nothing. There’s nothing like a good creative project to keep the blood pumping in my veins.

18. I’m a (Retired) Photographer.

Being a photographer was always a dream job for me, and I was blessed to spend years doing what I loved—freezing moments in time, capturing irreplaceable moments, and the moments in between the priceless moments too.

During COVID, I started my painting journey and this blog as a creative outlet, and there are only so many hours in the day, so I’ve stepped away from my photography for the most part.

Photography will always be my first creative love. It taught me how to find beauty in the everyday, tell stories through images, and capture emotion in a single frame. Those skills still influence everything I create.

Some of my Photography is still on Instagram if you wanna take a peek. 🙂

19. I worked as a Clinique makeup artist in the 90s

In the 90s, I spent several wonderful years working behind the Clinique counter, and honestly? I loved every minute of it (except for maybe the sore feet).

There’s something incredibly rewarding about helping a woman discover products that make her feel confident and beautiful.

I wasn’t just selling makeup—I was teaching women how to care for their skin, choose the right foundation for their skin type, and create looks that enhanced their natural features rather than masking them.

Those years gave me hands-on experience with hundreds of different skin types, concerns, and beauty challenges.

That Clinique training was top-notch, laying the foundation for my lifelong obsession with skincare and makeup.

20. I have ten piercings (surprise!)

Yep, ten. Most people don’t expect that from me, which makes it even better. Some are visible, some aren’t, and all of them make me happy.

Just a reminder: you’re never too old to do what makes you feel like yourself.

21. Curiosity is my favorite personality trait (in myself and others)

I’m a forever-learner, endlessly curious about everything. How things work, why people do what they do, new skills to master, different perspectives to consider—I want to know it all.

This curiosity translates into having lots of hobbies. Painting, gardening, blogging, mosaic art, photography, reading, thrifting—if it interests me, I dive in.

Some hobbies stick around forever, others are seasonal passions, and that’s okay. The point is to stay engaged and try new things.

I genuinely believe that curiosity keeps you young. When you stop learning and trying new things, that’s when you start feeling old. But when you’re constantly exploring, questioning, and discovering? Age becomes irrelevant.

Need inspiration? Check out: The Best Creative Art Hobbies and Hobbies for 50+

22. I had to learn that rest isn’t lazy

For most of my life, I wore my exhaustion like a badge of honor. Busy meant important. Tired meant productive. Rest felt like weakness or laziness.

It took burnout (multiple times!) to finally understand: rest isn’t the opposite of productivity—it’s what makes productivity sustainable. Your body and mind NEED downtime to function well.

Now I prioritize rest as part of my self-care routine, and I refuse to feel guilty about it. Rest is not a reward you earn—it’s a basic human need.

23. I love a good sunset. (but who doesn’t?)

I have at least 100 pictures of sunsets on my phone. But unfortunately, none of them ever do them the justice they deserve.

The thing about sunsets-no two are ever the same, you never know when you’re going to catch the best sunset of your life so my advice?

Take the time to stop and watch the sun go down. It’s good for your soul.

24. I’ve Learned to Do Things Afraid

For too long, I let fear stop me from trying new things, speaking my truth, or taking risks. But I finally realized: courage isn’t the absence of fear—it’s doing the thing anyway, even when you’re terrified.

Starting this blog? Honestly, it felt intimidating and scary. Moving across the country with young kids? Not once, not twice, but three times? Terrifying. Traveling to Ethiopia to adopt our daughter? Hard and a LOT scary!

But I did them all anyway. And you know what? The fear didn’t kill me. In fact, most of the best things in my life happened because I refused to let fear make my decisions.

Don’t wait for the fear to go away—it probably won’t. Just do it afraid.

25. I’m a recovering people-pleaser

I didn’t learn to set healthy boundaries until later in life, and honestly? It changed everything. Turns out “no” is a complete sentence, people-pleasing is a one-way ticket to burnout, and protecting my peace isn’t selfish—it’s necessary. I’m still working on it every single day.

I had to learn (the hard way) that toxic relationships don’t improve just because you’re accommodating; they improve when you draw clear lines.

The Bible offers powerful wisdom on boundaries, which helped me understand that loving others well requires loving myself enough to say “enough.”

26. Super random. I put ketchup on mac n cheese.

Weird, I know. I have no idea when it started. Probably when I was a kid, if you put ketchup on your macaroni and cheese, please leave me a comment below!

27. I went to beauty school in the 80s

Those were the days, my friends. And the hair! Big, big, big hair! I only worked as a hairdresser for a couple of years after graduating, but boy, could I wrap one heck of a permanent wave!

You can check out all my Beauty + Skincare articles

28. I stopped playing the comparison game (and found peace)

For years, I compared my body to others, my life to others, my achievements to others. Then social media weaponized comparison—suddenly we’re scrolling through filtered, curated perfection all day, feeling inadequate about our real, imperfect lives.

Listen, you cannot win the comparison game. There will always be someone thinner, younger, richer, more successful, more put-together. Always. So why play?

This almost 63-year-old body has been one of my biggest blessings. It carried and delivered three perfect humans (which is a miracle in itself), powered me through this wonderful, crazy, messy, sometimes exhausting life, and got me to TODAY—in one piece and still moving forward. And for that, I am thankful!

Now I set strict social media boundaries. I unfollow accounts that make me feel less-than. I limit scrolling. I remind myself that nobody’s life is as perfect as their Instagram feed suggests.

29. Gratitude is my non-negotiable daily practice

Practicing gratitude daily has genuinely changed my life. It’s not just a nice idea—it’s my favorite self-care practice and the foundation that keeps me grounded.

Every morning, I acknowledge at least three things I’m grateful for before my feet hit the floor. Some days it’s big stuff (my family, my health). Other days it’s small (hot coffee, a good night’s sleep). Both matter equally.

This simple practice shifts everything. It doesn’t eliminate stress or problems, but it gives you perspective. It reminds you that even on terrible days, there are still good things worth noticing.

I also use gratitude affirmations throughout the day and keep a gratitude journal by my bed. It takes maybe five minutes total, but the impact is immeasurable.

30. Thirteen was the worst year.

My thirteenth year of life was the worst year of my life for many reasons. Some of which I am prepared to share and some I am not.

In the summer, I was seriously injured in a swimming pool accident. I am left with a scar on my face along with a few life lessons. I learned three things.

One: Don’t swim with your eyes shut. Two: Life is fragile. Tomorrow is promised to no one, and three: Courage comes in small packages. (Dear Sam, I am forever grateful. XO)

31. I’m a dog person.

We have three fur babies: Zoe, Lucy, and Chloe. There’s nothing like coming home to wagging tails and unconditional love. And, they are the most faithful of friends a girl could ask for.

32. I’m an almost-empty-nester (and I’m ready!)

My youngest is 17, which means I’m about to fully enter the empty nest phase—and honestly? I’m excited! I’ve already had the joy of watching my oldest three fly the coop and thrive in their own lives, and now it’s almost time for my baby to spread her wings.

Don’t get me wrong, I’ve loved (almost) every stage of motherhood, but I’m genuinely looking forward to this next chapter. More time for spontaneous adventures, creative projects, and finally focusing on what lights ME up. The empty nest isn’t something to mourn—it’s something to celebrate!

33. I am a survivor.

And that’s all I have to say about that.

34: I believe in Integrative Wellness

I navigate several chronic health challenges that have shaped my wellness journey.

I have Hashimoto’s disease, severe food allergies that require me to carry an EpiPen everywhere I go, and battled chronic migraines since age 17—at one point suffering 9-11 migraines per month.

Through hormone replacement therapy, Botox treatments, stress management, and a comprehensive supplement regimen, I’ve reduced my migraines to about one every three to six months.

I’m a firm believer in self-care practices that complement western medicine—things like meditation, gratitude, and holistic wellness work alongside my medical treatments.

Managing chronic conditions taught me that self-care isn’t selfish—it’s survival.

I take an organized approach to my health, including vitamins and supplements in one of those weekly pill organizers I used to think were for old people! 🙂

35. I had to go on a news detox for my mental health

A few years ago, I realized that constant news consumption was making me anxious, angry, and exhausted. The 24/7 outrage cycle was literally affecting my physical and emotional health.

So I drastically limited my news intake, unfollowed divisive accounts, and started protecting my peace.

Staying informed is important, but staying sane is more important. I’m much happier now.

36. I’ve been a thrifter since childhood

I’ve been thrifting since childhood, and it’s become more than a hobby—it’s an art form. There’s something magical about finding hidden treasures, breathing new life into forgotten items, and creating art using repurposed and thrifted items.

The thrill of the hunt is so exciting—I love discovering a designer pair of jeans for just $10, picking up a beautiful Pottery Barn mirror for only $5 to add charm to my entry wall, or finding vintage china that can be creatively repurposed in countless ways.

37. Fall is my favorite season. (Hands down!)

Give me crisp air, changing leaves, cozy sweaters, and pumpkin everything. There’s something about fall that just feels like coming home.

I love the transition from blazing summer heat to cooler mornings, the chill in the air, and that golden afternoon light that makes everything look magical.

Fall also brings bucket list activities I look forward to all year—apple picking, fall decorating, and long walks in nature without melting.

What’s your favorite season?

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38. I love to play Wordle.

Do you Wordle? If you haven’t tried Wordle, DO it! I do my Wordle puzzle every single morning with my morning coffee. It’s part of my Morning Ritual.

Thanks to the New York Times, you can play Wordle here every day.

39. I am a recovering perfectionist.

I’m a recovering perfectionist, and breaking free from it has been one of my biggest personal growth challenges. For years, perfectionism stole my joy—I couldn’t enjoy moments because I was too busy making them picture-perfect.

I’ve learned (through therapy and lots of practice) that “good enough” really is good enough, that progress beats perfection every single time, and that the messy, imperfect moments are often the most meaningful.

It’s a daily practice, but I’m finally giving myself the grace I’d freely give to others.

40. I believe a productive day is a good day.

Am I right? A productive day out in the fresh air? Even better. I get the best sleep when I’ve been gardening or doing something with my hands.

41. I think that therapy is always a great idea.

And I should know because I’ve had a ton of it. Having a good therapist is a priceless gift. But buyer beware!-Not all therapists are good therapists.

If you are thinking about trying therapy, I found this article about how to find a good therapist and some things to avoid.

42. The beach is my happy place (salt water heals everything)

There’s an old saying: “The cure for anything is salt water—sweat, tears, or the sea.” And honestly? I believe it’s true.

The ocean literally heals your body. Ocean water is packed with minerals like magnesium (for sore muscles), potassium (reduces inflammation), and iodine (promotes skin healing).

The science backs this up—salt water can reduce pain, improve circulation, and even boost your immune system. The negative ions in sea air increase serotonin levels, which is why you feel so good at the beach.

But beyond what science can measure, there’s something soul-deep about being near the ocean. The vastness puts everything in perspective. The rhythm of the waves teaches you about letting go. The sound literally calms your nervous system and quiets the noise in your head.

Tears cleanse emotional pain and help us process grief. Crying isn’t weakness—it’s necessary healing.

Sweat comes from hard work, movement, and pushing through. It means you’re alive and engaged with life.

Give me 20 minutes with my toes in the sand and salt air in my lungs, and I’m a different person. It’s my reset button, my therapy, my reminder to breathe deeper and worry less.

Where is your happy place?

43. Sunlight is my favorite antidepressant

Give me 15 minutes of sunshine, and I’m a new person. Whether it’s morning coffee on the patio, gardening in the afternoon, or watching the sunset, being in natural light shifts everything for me. It’s free therapy.

44. I am all about self-care( it’s way more than bubble baths)

You’ve heard it before, but I’ll say it louder for those in the back: Self-care is not selfish.

Authentic self-care isn’t just spa days and face masks (though I love those too!). It’s setting boundaries, going to therapy, moving your body, nourishing yourself with good food, getting enough sleep, managing your finances, nurturing your relationships, and feeding your soul.

I learned about the eight types of self-care—physical, emotional, mental, spiritual, social, environmental, financial, and recreational—and it changed how I think about taking care of myself.

Self-care is any intentional action you take to care for your physical, mental, and emotional health. Stop putting yourself last. You matter. Your needs matter. Your well-being matters. Period.

You can browse my Self-care articles if you are interested in learning more.

45. Botox is my favorite beauty secret (that I don’t keep secret)

I’m completely transparent about this: I get Botox regularly, and it’s been one of my best beauty investments.

Beyond the obvious cosmetic benefits (smooth forehead, fewer wrinkles, refreshed appearance), Botox drastically reduced my chronic migraines, and for me, it’s been life-changing.

Over the years, I’ve learned that aging gracefully means using whatever tools help you feel confident and comfortable. For me, that includes Botox—unapologetically.

46. I collect quotes.

I love good, strong words. They have the power to change mindsets and maybe even the world. If only the world were listening.

Need some inspirational quotes for your social feed? Check out my article: 100 Instagram Quotes for Women.

47. I love yoga. (I bend so I won’t break)

I have practiced yoga off and on for over 30 years. I’ve heard that yoga is not for the flexible but for the willing. And I believe that is true.

If you haven’t tried yoga, please do. I just know you’ll be glad you did.

48. I would rather be barefoot.

Did you know walking barefoot is good for you? Check out this article outlining the benefits of walking barefoot. It’s fascinating!

49. #metoo (and I have stories)

I worked in corporate America through the 80s and 90s—first as a single mom trying to climb the ladder, later as a woman fighting to be taken seriously in male-dominated spaces.

The casual harassment, the boys’ club mentality, the being talked over in meetings, the inappropriate comments disguised as jokes, the feeling that speaking up would cost you your job—it was just “how things were.” We didn’t have language for it. We didn’t have solidarity. We just endured.

When the #metoo movement exploded, I felt both validated and heartbroken. Validated because finally women were being believed. Heartbroken because it took so damn long, and because I realized how deeply that era shaped my struggles with self-worth, boundaries, and speaking up for myself.

I’m grateful we’re moving in the right direction, but we still have so far to go. Young women today shouldn’t have to fight the battles we fought. They deserve better—and we owe it to them to keep pushing for change.

50. Cold beer + hot shower + beach day = heaven

I love beer—alcohol AND carbs? What’s not to love! But my favorite beer experience is highly specific: drinking an ice-cold one in a hot shower after a full day at the beach.

The combination of hot water washing away the salt and sand while you sip something cold is pure bliss. Your muscles are tired, your skin is sun-kissed, and for those few minutes, life is absolutely perfect. If you haven’t tried it, you’re missing out!

Related article: How to get over a hangover fast

51. I’m a nerd.

I used to build websites for a living and even wrote code. #nerdy.

52. I met my husband in a bar.

Let me explain. I met my husband at work, which just happened to be a nightclub. He was a bouncer, and I was a cocktail waitress. 🙂

53. I choose a word of the year (every year!)

Every year, I choose a word of the year that becomes my guiding intention for the next 12 months. This practice has been transformative—it gives me clarity, focus, and something to return to when life gets chaotic.

Past words have included “grace,” “boundaries,” and “simplify.” It’s a powerful way to set intentions without the pressure of traditional resolutions.

54. I shave my face (and you should too!)

Yep, you read that right. I dermaplane my face regularly, and it’s one of the best things I’ve ever done for my skin.

For those unfamiliar, dermaplaning is essentially shaving your face with a specialized blade to remove dead skin cells and peach fuzz. The result? Smoother skin, better product absorption, flawless makeup application, and a gorgeous glow.

There’s this weird stigma around women removing facial hair, but here’s the truth: we ALL have peach fuzz. Removing it doesn’t make it grow back darker or thicker (that’s a myth!).

Dermaplaning is a game-changer for mature skin.My skin looks brighter, my serums actually penetrate rather than sit on dead skin, and my makeup goes on like butter.

If you’re curious about trying it, check out my complete guide to dermaplaning at home—I’ll walk you through everything you need to know.

55. I am terrible at math.

I do mean horrible. And that’s why God made calculators.

56. Fine hair is my daily reality (and challenge)

I have fine hair, which means every strand is thin in diameter and gets weighed down easily. After years of both professional and personal experience, I’ve learned exactly what works and what doesn’t.

The key? The right haircut, lightweight volumizing products, and styling tools that create body without damage. Fine hair requires an entirely different approach, but with the right knowledge, it can look full and gorgeous.

Check out my fine hair guides—everything I recommend is tested on my own head first!

57. I have three tattoos.

One of which I am having removed. (Which hurts like hell, by the way) Think before you ink.

58. I’m pro-aging, not anti-aging

I’m all about pro-aging—embracing getting older rather than fighting it. Yes, I use quality skincare products and take all the supplements, etc, but it’s about aging gracefully and feeling confident in my skin, not trying to look 25 again.

59. I’ve pivoted careers more times than I can count

I’ve worked every job imaginable from 15 to 63—hairdresser, cocktail waitress, spa director, photographer, web developer—and now blogger (to name a few).

Each pivot taught me something valuable. If you’re thinking about a career pivot, I’m living proof that it’s never too late to reinvent yourself or try something completely new.

60. Self-compassion changed my life

I spent decades being my own worst critic until I learned about radical self-compassion. Treating myself with the same kindness I’d offer a dear friend changed everything—from how I handle mistakes to how I talk to myself in the mirror.

Related article: Be Kind to Yourself Quotes + Affirmations for Self-Love

61. I once had an orange cat named Violet.

Now if that’s not random, I don’t know what is. When I was 5, our neighbor’s cat had kittens. I picked out an orange kitten.

When we were walking home with our new kitty, my mom asked me, “What do you want to name your new kitten?” and I replied, “Her name is Violet!” HA!

I think I’ve always been a little bit quirky. 🙂

62. I used to play the flute

I started to play the flute in fifth grade and continued until I was a Sophomore in high school. I quit playing the flute because you had to be in the marching band to be in the concert band.

This was a deal breaker at the time, although I wish I would have continued to play on my own.

63. I love the water.

I’m a pretty good swimmer and could float in the water for hours. I learned to swim at a very early age, and for that, I am thankful.

64. I love, love, love to shop!

I consider shopping a sport! I love big shiny shopping malls, little tiny thrift shops, and online shopping too! I can’t believe that some people hate shopping! WHAT?!

65. I miss the magic of going to the movies

I fell in love with going to the movies as a kid. Raise your hand if you remember double features?! The first one I ever saw was ROCKY and A STAR IS BORN—my girlfriends and I got all dressed up, took the bus to the valley, and had the best day of our lives.

There was something magical about the ritual: standing in line for tickets, the smell of buttered popcorn, finding the perfect seat, the lights dimming, that collective experience of laughing, gasping, or crying with a room full of strangers. It wasn’t just about the film—it was about the experience.

Then COVID happened, and everything changed. Even now, years later, it’s not the same. Theaters are less crowded, people are glued to their phones during movies, and honestly? Streaming at home is just so convenient that the magic feels lost.

I still go occasionally, but I mourn what we lost. There was something irreplaceable about that shared cultural experience—and I’m not sure younger generations will ever fully understand what we had.

66. I love poetry.

A good poem or song lyric can take you anywhere. One of my favorites is Still I rise by Maya Angelou. If you haven’t read it- do!

67. I’m like an egg

Tough as nails on the outside but soft on the inside.

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68. My Struggle with Self-Worth

I spent decades believing I wasn’t enough. The world is really good at convincing women we’re lacking—not pretty enough, not thin enough, not young enough, not accomplished enough. Add trauma and difficult life experiences and relationships to that messaging, and it’s no wonder so many of us struggle with self-worth.

By my mid-forties, I was exhausted from trying to prove my value. Through therapy and faith, I learned something revolutionary: my worth isn’t something I earn or lose—it’s inherent. It exists regardless of what I do, how I look, or what anyone thinks.

You need to know this: Your value is not up for debate. Not because of what you achieve, but simply because you exist. The world will try to convince you otherwise. Don’t believe it.

69. my hard-won thoughts on forgiveness (for what it’s worth)

Forgiveness is an act, not a feeling. It’s something you do for yourself, not for the person who hurt you.

Psychologists define forgiveness as a conscious, deliberate decision to release feelings of resentment or vengeance toward a person or group who has harmed you—regardless of whether they actually deserve your forgiveness.

That feels right to me. Forgiveness is a decision we make for ourselves, whether we ever receive an apology or not. You can forgive without getting that apology (although wouldn’t it be nice?).

But here’s what’s crucial: Forgiveness does not equal a relationship. Period.

Just because you forgive someone doesn’t mean you have to continue the relationship. You can release resentment AND protect yourself by walking away. Those two things can (and often should) coexist.

And let’s not forget the hardest one: forgiving yourself.

We’re often harder on ourselves than we’d ever be on anyone else. Forgive yourself. Let yourself off the hook. Stop replaying past mistakes on an endless loop.

Forgive—and let that shit go.

70. I do Morning pages every day.

Morning pages journaling is my secret weapon for mental clarity. Every morning, I do a brain dump—three pages of stream-of-consciousness writing before my day begins. It’s like therapy in a notebook.

This practice helped me process everything from grief to gratitude, and I can’t imagine starting my day without it.

Related article: Nightstand Essentials for Women

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71. I believe in the power of words and affirmations

I’m a huge believer in the power of words—both the ones we speak to ourselves and the ones we consume. Daily affirmations and positive quotes have literally rewired my brain over time.

When you struggle with negative self-talk (like I did for years), intentionally feeding your mind truth is revolutionary.

72. I’m always reading at least two books

I’m rarely without a book in progress—usually one fiction for escape and one non-fiction for growth. Reading has been my constant companion through every season of life.

Related article: Browse Through My Articles About My Fav Books!

73. I’m obsessed with denim jackets

I have a thing for denim jackets—they never go out of style! I’ve been collecting and wearing them for decades, and I’m convinced every woman needs at least one, or maybe ten, good denim jackets in her closet.

They’re versatile, timeless, and make you look pulled-together with minimal effort.

74. I love to meditate

I mostly meditate in the morning and before bed. I believe that meditation, like gratitude, has improved my life.

If you want to learn more about the benefits of meditation, I wrote an article about meditating here: The Benefits of Daily Meditation for Women.

75. My favorite movie of all time?

Forest Gump! First of all, I love underdog movies. Second, I fell in love with little Forest 5 minutes into the film. Second, Forest Gump is clever, heart-warming, pretty darn sad, and funny all in one!

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76. Black is My Signature Color (Always has been)

I started wearing black fingernail polish back in the 80s (way before it was trendy), and I wear mostly black clothing too. What can I say? It looks good on me.

I probably own 50+ black tank tops and 10-15 black dresses. My favorite nail polish? OPI’s Lincoln Park After Dark—it’s a gorgeous black-purple shade.

77. I’m on a mission to simplify my life

After years of accumulating stuff (remember those 15+ bins of Christmas decorations?), I’m actively working to simplify.

Fewer possessions, clearer priorities, and more intentional living. Turns out, less really can be more—and the freedom that comes with letting go is incredible.

Related: Exploring Presence over Presents for Christmas

78. My Favorite Color?

I can’t pick a favorite color (don’t make me choose!) My favorite color changes depending on my mood, the season, what I’m wearing, what I’m creating… basically, I love the whole crayon box and refuse to commit.

79. Music is Everything.

Music is my therapy, my time machine, and my mood regulator.

Being born in the 60s, I grew up surrounded by incredible music—rock, folk, disco, soul, R&B, country, you name it. And honestly? I love it all. Well, almost all. Jazz is probably my least favorite (sorry, jazz lovers!), but everything else? Bring it on.

Music is transportive in a way nothing else is. One song can instantly take me back to my childhood bedroom, my first kiss, my wedding day, or rocking my babies to sleep.

It’s a time machine that works every single time.

But beyond nostalgia, music heals. When I’m sad, the right song validates my feelings. When I’m angry, it gives me an outlet. When I’m happy, it amplifies my joy. Music shifts energy, changes moods, and processes emotions that words alone can’t touch.

I have playlists for everything—Music sets the tone for my entire day. It’s not background noise; it’s medicine, therapy, and pure soul food.

80. The End of an Era. (My breakup with high heels)

Back when I was a cocktail waitress at a fancy resort, four-inch heels and a strapless dress were mandatory for 8-hour shifts. My feet (and back) were destroyed, but I looked great!

And for years, I loved wearing heels. (especially in the 80s!) They made me feel powerful, polished, and confident. But now at 62 with a bad knee? Heels are impossible. And it’s frustrating when you want to dress up for special occasions. But, such is life.

Now I’m embracing comfortable, stylish alternatives and choosing pain-free living over aesthetics. My feet (and my back) are grateful.

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81. And underwire bras…

Probably the most random fact about me yet. I think that underwire bras are from the devil. I haven’t worn an underwire bra for about five years now and only wish I had burned them all sooner.

Related article: The Best Bras for Older Women

82. I have the best-best friends!

I’m blessed to have some of the best friends in the world. You know the ones. The ride-or-die girls who have my back no matter what.

Like Thelma and Louise, only without the car going off the cliff at the end. 🙂

Related: How to Make Friends After 50+

83. I can cook, but I’m sorta over it.

Back in the day, I cooked dinner every single night. It was like clockwork.

Every Monday morning, after the kids were off to school, I planned the week’s menu along with a grocery list and corresponding coupons.

Remember couponing!? Those were the days, my friends.

Did you have double coupons where you lived? Do people still cut out coupons? Please share in the WAIT?! Is couponing still a thing, and I am out of touch? Comments below?

84. Perimenopause and Menopause are Rough!

Perimenopause hit me hard—mood swings, brain fog, hot flashes, the works. And I gotta say, my then doctor was a jerk about it, which really opened my eyes to the fact that healthcare for women is outdated.

I had to become my own advocate, and learning to navigate this transition meant educating myself, finding the right healthcare providers, and refusing to “deal with it.”

Hormone therapy has been life-changing for me. Women deserve to feel good during this phase of life, not just survive it. Advocate for yourself—your quality of life matters.

85. I don’t like being late.

Here’s the thing about being late-it happens. If you have trouble being late, give yourself a break and do yourself a favor.

Read this article about how not to be late. You’re welcome.

86. I love, love, love time travel movies!

LOVE! What’s your favorite time travel movie? Mine is The Time Traveler’s Wife. We are watching Outer Range right now! It’s a great time-travel movie (and it’s a little creepy, too).

87. I drink a ton of water daily!

My husband says I’m like a camel, but I’m not sure camels drink much water. Do they?

I start every day with a big glass of water—first thing in the morning. I keep a small carafe on my bedside table, so I always have water handy in my beloved Stanley.

How much water do you drink daily? Do you think it’s enough? If you’d like to learn more about how much water you should drink daily, I’ve got a great article about the health and beauty benefits of water.

88. I am obsessed with candles

You could say I’m a bit of a candle freak. But I love candles burning all the time. Candles make me happy. A house without candles is like a day without sunshine.

89. My Intuition is my favorite superpower

What’s yours?

90. I am an extroverted introvert.

I consider myself an extroverted introvert, or an ambivert. Extroverts are typically outgoing, fun-loving, friendly, and talkative. In contrast, introverts are reserved, withdrawn, and introspective in small social circles.

Ambiverts, on the other hand, may exhibit behaviors common to both extroverts and introverts.

Depending on the circumstances, they might prefer to spend an evening alone or be the life of the party. And that’s me!

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91. I love rock n roll.

In the words of Joan Jett, I love Rock n’ Roll. Always have, and always will.

92. What’s my favorite song?

My favorite song is Landslide by Stevie Nicks.

Although I have many favorites, it’s my number one. Recently, My Son Kyle and I danced to Landslide at his wedding. What a beautiful and emotional experience!

It’s of those memories that will be etched into my mind forever.

My oldest son, Tyler, picked “Perfect Fan” by the Backstreet Boys for our wedding dance. Oh,
my heart! Another top-ten memory!

Here’s another favorite photo. This is my Son Tyler James and I dancing on his wedding day.

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93. Sometimes, I think about writing a book

I’ve got a few ideas for a book swimming around in this little head of mine. I may write a work of fiction about my life. Don’t worry, I will change the names to protect the innocent- and the guilty!

94. My Favorite Food?

That’s a hard one! I love Thai, Italian, and Mexican…and there’s nothing better than a good burger! And Pizza! OMG. Now I’m hungry.

95. Now for Dessert!

I guess we should talk dessert now, right?! I love a moist chocolate cake with chocolate frosting and pineapple upside-down cake. And ice cream!

96. My Favorite Ice Cream Flavor

Ben and Jerry’s! Right now, I’m into Half-baked (and I love the name too!)

97. I’m afraid of heights.

And, I’m pretty sure I also have claustrophobia too.

So those movies where they are crawling through a tight air duct or tunnel freak me out! And Bungee jumping? Never.

98. I was Born on the day of Epiphany

One extra, super random fact about me! I was supposed to be born on Christmas Day, but was late. So instead of being born on Christmas Day, I was born on the day of Epiphany. Pretty cool, right?

99. If I could meet one famous person (alive today)

Without hesitation, it would be Oprah Winfrey. Love her. Second pick? Matthew McConaughey. His book Greenlights is a must-read.

100. My best is yet to come!

I genuinely believe that the best is yet to come and. that my best years are still ahead, not behind me. At 63 (next month!), I’m just getting started—there are trips to take, art to create, dreams to pursue, and adventures waiting.

I refuse to buy into the narrative that life peaks at 30 or that everything after 50 is decline. I’m proof that you can pivot, reinvent, and thrive at any age. Follow along on Instagram as I navigate this next chapter!

FAQs Random Facts About Me

How did you manage to reduce your migraines?

Two game-changers: bioidentical hormone replacement therapy (BHRT) and Botox injections. After struggling with migraines since age 17, I finally found relief in my fifties. The hormone pellets balanced my system, and Botox (yes, the same stuff used for wrinkles!) is FDA-approved for chronic migraines. It’s been life-changing.

I also practice daily stress management through meditation and gratitude, which helps keep triggers at bay.

What skincare routine do you follow at 63?

After years in the beauty industry as a cosmetologist, Clinique makeup artist, and skincare spa director (and extensive personal experience with mature skin), I’ve learned what works for mature skin.

My routine focuses on hydration, sun protection, and active ingredients that address aging concerns. I’m obsessed with finding products that deliver real results, not just pretty packaging. Check out my beauty and skincare articles where I share my honest product reviews and pro-aging tips based on both professional training and personal experience.

How do you practice gratitude daily, and how has it changed your life?

Gratitude practice is hands-down my favorite form of self-care. I start each morning acknowledging three things I’m grateful for, sometimes it’s big stuff, sometimes it’s just my morning coffee.

It’s shifted my entire mindset from focusing on what’s wrong to recognizing what’s right. Over time, this practice helped me overcome people-pleasing tendencies, reduce my anxiety, and give me perspective during difficult seasons. It sounds simple, but it’s genuinely transformative. Learn more about cultivating an attitude of gratitude here.

What does your morning routine look like?

I’m a firm believer that how you start your day sets the tone for everything else. My morning coffee routine includes quiet time with God, focusing on gratitude, morning pages journaling (a total brain dump—so freeing!), playing Wordle, and setting my intentions for the day.

I also drink a big glass of water first thing (before coffee!) and do some gentle stretching or yoga. These morning rituals keep me grounded and help me show up as my best self.

How did you learn to set healthy boundaries after years of people-pleasing?

This was one of the hardest lessons of my life, and honestly, I’m still working on it every day. Through therapy and a ton of personal study, I realized that boundaries aren’t mean—they’re necessary for self-preservation.

I’ve also had to learn that “no” is a complete sentence, that I don’t owe everyone an explanation, and that protecting my peace is non-negotiable for my well-being.

Setting healthy boundaries is another game-changer- It’s ongoing work, but so worth it.

How did you overcome perfectionism?

I’m still a recovering perfectionist—it’s a daily practice! The turning point was realizing that my perfectionism was stealing my joy and keeping me from actually enjoying moments with my family and friends.

I used to redecorate the Christmas tree after the kids went to bed—can you imagine? Now I focus on progress over perfection, embrace “good enough,” and remind myself that messy is often more meaningful than perfect.

Therapy helped tremendously, as did my faith journey and learning to extend myself the same grace I’d give others.

What advice do you have for women navigating midlife transitions?

Midlife can feel disorienting—especially when you’re redefining yourself beyond your roles as wife, mother, or career woman.

My biggest advice? This is YOUR time. Pursue hobbies that light you up, work on your relationship with yourself, and understand that it’s never too late to pivot.

Also, if you’re dealing with empty nest syndrome or a midlife crisis, know you’re not alone, and these transitions are, yes, really, really hard but 100% normal and navigable.

Can you share more about your faith journey and how it shaped you?

I came to accept Christ as my Lord and Savior back in 1992, when I was in my late twenties, and it truly transformed my life. It first helped me work through some difficult experiences from my childhood and teenage years, and it has remained my steady anchor through every season since then.

It’s not that life became perfect—it’s that I had a true north to help me navigate when things fell apart. My faith informs how I approach gratitude, forgiveness, self-worth, and relationships.

You can read my complete statement of faith here if you want to understand what I believe and how it guides my life and content.

How do you care for 40+ houseplants without getting overwhelmed?

I love my plant babies! The key is choosing plants that match your lifestyle and light conditions. I have a mix of low-maintenance plants (pothos, snake plants) and more demanding ones that I enjoy fussing over.

You can check out my houseplant tips for beginners for everything I’ve learned about keeping plants thriving. Honestly, caring for them is therapeutic—it’s like meditation with dirt under your fingernails!

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Final Thoughts: 100 Random Fun Facts About Me

So there you have it—100 random facts about me, straight from the heart!

Now here’s my challenge for you: Could you write your own list of 100 facts? I bet you absolutely can. And I bet you’d be surprised by what surfaces when you start writing.

Your story matters. Your quirks, your journey, your hard-won lessons—they all matter. Someone out there needs to hear that they’re not alone in their struggles, their dreams, or even their weird habit of putting ketchup on mac and cheese.

Tell me in the comments: What’s one random fact about you? Or better yet, what do we have in common? I’d love to know!

XO, Christine