A Week to Remember and Forget and Sunday Morning Coffee

Last Tuesday started as one of those days where nothing seemed to go right. It was the kind of day that tests your patience and leaves you feeling defeated.

That morning, I discovered my Facebook account had been hacked. At first, it seemed like the worst thing that could happen. Losing access to your account, personal messages, and years of shared memories can feel like an invasion of your personal space. I spent hours trying to recover it, navigating through frustrating support pages, and feeling an overwhelming sense of helplessness.

Season 5 Volume 2

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Southern California is no stranger to wind, but the gusts were more potent and relentless than usual that night.

Anyone here knows what Santa Ana winds can bring—dry air, rapid temperature shifts, and an uneasy feeling. By the time I went to bed, the winds were rattling the windows and sweeping through the streets with an intensity that felt unsettling.

The next morning, I woke to the devastating news: fires had erupted in multiple areas, fueled by those same fierce winds. These weren’t just small, contained fires; they were raging infernos, spreading faster than anyone could have imagined. Entire neighborhoods were being evacuated, homes were burning to the ground, and the skies were filled with thick, choking smoke.

Suddenly, my hacked Facebook account didn’t matter at all.

The Fires: A Devastating Reminder of What Truly Matters

As the fires spread, it was impossible not to feel a deep sadness and helplessness. Families were losing their homes, pets were being displaced, and the brave firefighters battling the flames were risking their lives to protect others. The images on the news were heartbreaking—homes reduced to ashes, landscapes scorched beyond recognition, and people fleeing with little more than the clothes on their backs.

It was a stark reminder of how quickly life can change and how insignificant some problems are in the grand scheme of things.

My Facebook account? It was a minor inconvenience compared to what so many were facing. It’s easy to get caught up in the minor frustrations of daily life, but moments like these force you to take a step back and put everything into perspective.

Finding Gratitude Amid Chaos

While the fires brought destruction and heartbreak, they also highlighted the strength and resilience of the community. Stories of neighbors helping neighbors, volunteers stepping up to provide aid, and firefighters working tirelessly to save lives reminded me of the incredible kindness that can emerge during the darkest times.

In my own small way, I tried to channel my feelings into action. I reached out to friends and family to check on them, donated to local relief efforts, and spent time reflecting on all the things I often take for granted—a safe home, loved ones, and the ability to help others in need.

Lessons From the Week That Changed Everything

That week started with me feeling like everything was falling apart because of a hacked social media account. But by the end of the week, I had gained something far more valuable: perspective.

I realized how much time and energy I had spent stressing over something that, in the end, was fixable. My account will eventually be restored, and life will go on.

Meanwhile, others were dealing with losses that couldn’t be undone. It was a humbling experience that reminded me to be more mindful of what truly matters.

This experience also served as a wake-up call about preparation. Living in an area prone to natural disasters, it’s crucial to have an emergency plan in place. The fires reinforced the need to stay vigilant, pack emergency kits, and keep important documents and irreplaceable items accessible.

Moving Forward With a Renewed Focus

As the fires continue to smolder and communities begin to rebuild, my heart goes out to everyone affected. Their strength and resilience are inspiring, and I’m reminded of the importance of supporting one another during difficult times.

This past week taught me that even when the worst happens, there’s always a chance to gain clarity and perspective. It’s easy to get caught up in the daily grind and let minor inconveniences feel monumental, but when you zoom out, life shows you what truly matters.

If you’re struggling, I encourage you to step back and find the silver linings. And if you can, reach out to someone who might need help. Whether donating to relief efforts, offering a kind word, or simply being there for someone, even small gestures can make a big difference.

To everyone who has faced hardship, big or small, this week: You’re not alone, and there’s always hope, even in the face of challenges. Let’s hold on to that hope and move forward together.

Thanks to everyone who has reached out and worried about us, but please know we are safe but hurting; we are devastated for all of those who lost so much.

Leslie

My Latest Project

A few months ago, my girlfriends and I penciled in this weekend for a girl’s trip in Ventura. We knew if we didn’t commit to a date, it wouldn’t happen.

This week, our trip was on, then off, then on again. Two of my girlfriends had significant damage to their homes, and one had a tree crash into her home and bedroom. Their resilience is impressive, and even though it’s challenging, they know their closest friends are here to help and support them in any way they can.

So, we decided we all needed to get away.

And we are here in Ventura!

We made sourdough bread.

And ate very well.

We biked and ate very well.

Ad we celebrated a birthday.

This has been the break we all needed.

I am so thankful for these women!

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My Biggest Challenge This Week

For most of my life, I have always liked to be in control.

I also believe, deep down inside, that I can fix something that goes wrong.

This week, I have struck out on all fronts with that belief.

And I am not dealing with it very well.

But that’s ok. We can’t fix everything. I should know that.

On that note, I do have a Facebook or Instagram hack tip. If you have a problem and are Meta Verified (available to most for a small fee), there is help. If you go into Settings, go to Mega Verified and follow the link to get Support. You can get help there. Just know it may take a while.

I started this new feature on my Sunday Morning Coffee post. Discussing a topic every week and getting your input here is a great way to connect and share.

Here is today’s topic:

Share your biggest success with decorating on a budget.

Here is my answer!

I face this issue every season when I redo/decorate the decor in our home four times a year. Using the term “redo/decorate” is a bit of an exaggeration, as alI I do is change the color palette and “look and feel” in four areas of our home: our living room, dining room, family room, and kitchen. I have recently added our new repurposed sunroom so it’s five areas. I do not spend a lot of money on this change. Maybe $75 each time? The secret is first shopping in my home and using pillow covers and accessories to make the change. I just shared our newly redone living room; you can see the post here.

What’s yours?

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• Finish decorating our home for winter in the dining room, family room, kitchen, and sunroom.
• Get ready for a trip to Austin and Waco, Texas.

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And what a week it was!

• 
  A Week to Remember and Forget and Sunday Morning Coffee
  Last Tuesday started as one of those days where nothing seemed to go right. It was the kind of day that tests your patience and leaves you feeling defeated. That morning, I discovered my Facebook account had been hacked. At first,…
• 
  A Calm and Cozy Refresh in the Living Room
  January is a time of renewal, reflection, and resetting. After the busyness of the holidays, I craved a calm and cozy refresh for my living room. But instead of packing away every trace of holiday decor, I incorporated a few festive…
• 
  The Very Best Pear Bread Recipe
  There are few things as comforting as a slice of warm pear bread. It is perfectly sweet and the best comfort food when it is chilly outside. This pear bread recipe is perfect for cold winter mornings. Pop a slice into…
• 
  The 12 Worst Stains and How to Remove Them
  One task that tops the list for many of us in the new year is mastering the art of removing stains. Whether it’s coffee spills on your favorite white shirt or red wine on your sofa, knowing how to deal with…
• 
  The Five Minute Winter Wreath DIY
  I love making wreaths and how this five-minute winter wreath came out. I can’t wait to share how easy it is to make. This is a five-minute wreath that looks amazing. I made this winter wreath, and there is a secret….
• 
  How to Choose a Winter Color Palette
  It’s time to decorate our house for the new year and choose a winter color palette. I love selecting a color palette each season, and I hope you will join me in doing it, too! Each year, as I sort and…

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• What Drives Me Crazy: The Endless Hunt for Plastic Lids
• A Calm Kitchen for Winter
• A Blushing Dining Room
• How to Plan the Best Staycation This Year
• Valentine’s Hearts DIY
• Valentine’s Day Sugar Cookies

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• A Good Year – S4/V1

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This Week’s Top Sellers

We shared many of our favorite home items this week, and here are the top sellers!

My Instagram Feed This Week

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