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
Thanks for joining me for Sunday Morning Coffee. This is a place to share, learn, explain, and dream.



About Me
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?

- 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.


A fresh ginger shot is a great healthy option! Homemade is best.

The Idea Room shared Simple Printable Valentines Day Table Decor.

This Chocolate Loaf Cake Recipe looks amazing!

And what a week it was!
- Jute Rope Basket DIYThere’s something about a jute rope basket that feels so rustic and charming. Today, I’m going to show you how to make one yourself! Maybe it’s the natural color of the jute or the way it weaves around and around for…
- Seven Last Minute Valentine’s Day Ideas for Your HomeEnhancing your home romantically and festively is so much fun. Today, I am sharing how to add last-minute Valentine’s Day ideas for your home. This includes using flowers, candles, hearts, colors, decor items, special touches, and baking. It’s not too late…
- How to Make Flower CupcakesFebruary is the perfect time to make flower cupcakes. Are you ready to get crafty in the kitchen? Let’s make buttercream flowers together. If you love making delicious and beautiful treats, you will love today’s post. I will show you how…
- My Everyday SilverwareA few weeks ago, I posted a photo of my everyday silverware drawer on IG. And to my surprise, I surprised a lot of people when I admitted that I use my sterling silver flatware a lot. Contrary to most, I use my silver every. single. day.
- The Best Place to Dine on Valentine’s Day and Sunday Morning CoffeeDo you like to go out on Valentine’s Day? Or do you want to stay home? Spending Valentine’s Day dinner at home is more romantic and the best dining place. Valentine’s Day is just around the corner. While many may opt…
- Valentine’s Day Dining Room Table DecorI love setting tables, and my favorite is the dining room table decor I created for Valentine’s Day! Here is a beautiful neutral table. Valentine’s Day, dedicated to celebrating love and affection, provides the perfect opportunity to transform your dining room…


This article, 7 Hidden Gems to Look for at the Thrift Shop, is a must-read.

- 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

- A Good Year – S4/V1
You Might Also Need…
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
You can pin the image below to your boards on Pinterest (click the Pin button in the top left corner) or follow me on Pinterest!

For more real-time updates, follow me on Instagram @My100YearOldHome
You are right we have things happen to us but all it takes is to look around and there plenty to see with bigger problems…….Sorry for all the fires and your friends homes …….I know life could change any time for any number of us ……
Leslie, I am so glad to hear you and your family are safe… I have been wondering if the fires affected you and your home. It is truly heartbreaking what is happening to others. Once we put life’s challenges into perspective – it can truly change everything! I pray that all those who are suffering right now can find their path forward 🙏🏻.
https://www.thenokbox.com/
Leslie, this is what I purchased to organize my documents. I live in an area that is prone to fires and being ready to leave with the documents you need is easy with this. Our hearts are with you during this devastating time.
Even though Im in Texas now, have lived through many fires in OC, evacuating many times. So glad you feel safe, your home is close enough to the Altadena city line from Pasadena.
I made your banana nut muffins, jumbo size, only 5 muffins. Can I double the recipe or do I need to make separate batches🙏🙏🙏
So thankful you are safe. You have been my prayers for protection for you and your family. Praying for rain to help stop the destruction. My nephew’s in-laws live in the Palisades…and it appears their home untouched from fire which is a miracle. They are in their 80’s and with family until they can return.
Thanks so much for the thoughts and prayers. It’s been an incredibly sad week but we have been very lucky. 💔❤️
My Facebook account got hacked 8 months ago, I was told to Email: [email protected] to recover my hacked fb account back, he was recommended to me by my mother who is the only trusted hacker that ever recovered back her account and he did it, my account was fully recovered 100%
Wow thank you for the recommendation!