It’s been a long, rainy, challenging month. I can’t remember the last time we had more than five hours of sunshine. I was planning to post about all of the things that have been happening in my life when one particular thing topped it all. Our house was broken into and robbed this week. Yep. We had to file a police report, etc. The crazy part is that our suspect is a female, the police believe it could be someone in our very own neighborhood. Why? Because the things stolen were precious design items, not electronics. Some of the pretty things you saw in our Southern Living article.
[photos by Helen Norman]
I felt so violated. So mad. So confused why anyone would do such a thing. I didn’t want to write about it until I regrouped. After all, this blog is a place for you to come rest your mind, inspire your creativity and rejuvenate your spirt. I had to find meaning in this…something productive to take away from such a terrible experience. I believe there is a lesson in every experience we have in this life, be it good or bad. Sometimes those lessons fill us with joy, sometimes they downright hurt. But one thing is certain. We can still continue to sparkle. I remember seeing this poster a while back and couldn’t agree more. I tweaked the colors a little, ha ha.
As I digested this experience and started adding up how much damage was done and how much was taken from us, it began to consume me. I immediately stopped, took a deep breath and switched gears. I snatched a piece of paper, sat down and started writing down all of the gifts and blessings in our life. Not material ones, but true, genuine blessings. Such as the laughter of our children, the embrace of my husband, the loyalty of dear friends, heck even the companionship of our pets. My list got longer and longer….until I realized this wasn’t something that took away from the sparkle of my life. This was something that made me realize what is truly VALUABLE in our life together as a family. And THAT is what shines.
For every one bad thing you can find in your life, I promise you there are at least 20 good things.
Let me introduce you to our fourth and youngest child, Pierce. Here he is snuggling up early on a Saturday morning before I even got out of bed.
A few weeks ago Pierce said something out of the clear blue that I’ll never forget:
“Mommy, I want to be rich with love, not money.”
Funny how you can learn a brilliant philosophy for life from a six year old. He said it without even thinking, then moved on to playing again.
I want to spend my life expressing gratitude and having a bank of account of love that overflows. Maybe the person who took our things needed them more than we did. Who knows. Either way, the true sparkle in life is the love you express and the value of those who love you. Not things.
Try writing a gratitude list this week. You’ll be surprised how much you truly have. And don’t forget to hug someone you love.
I‘m Seleta, a city girl living the beach life with my husband, fabulous four offspring, happy horses and frisky fur babies. A former TV personality turned Designer, I love to share the sparkly side of life. Read more 
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Seleta- I am so sorry to read this. Your strong and positive attitude is very inspiring. I know what you are feeling somewhat, as my car was broken into last month and some very precious personal things were taken. That feeling of violation is unexplainable, and with it comes so many emotions. I love your idea of writing down the gifts in your life that money cannot buy- I think I need to do the same to try and get over what happened. You truly are inspiring- thank you for sharing. Sending you tons of xoxo’s. – Annemarie
PS. Off topic, but I have total skin envy right now! You are flawless and just stunning!
Ha ha, thanks Annemarie. Very kind of you to say : )
So sorry about your car…we can obviously empathize with each other right now.
xo
Seleta
ugh, i hated reading this seleta. so sorry for you and your family. yes, violated would top my emotions also. and then, why?? your attitude is inspiring. thanks for the gratitude reminder…pam
I am sick over reading that someone could violate you like that. To think that you open up your world to us as inspiration and that a person could take advantage of that is a truly a sin. You are lucky to realize that these were just materialistic items and that your most valuable possesions in life you can’t put a price tag on. You are raising your children to be such smart, kind and beautiful people. Take comfort in that. xo
i am so very sorry to hear that you were robbed. we were robbed for the first time three weeks ago and yes, it is a horrible experience. thankfully, no one was at home in our instance and all they took was electronics. you are so right in the fact that all the valuable things in life really aren’t things! wishing you much peace as you put “things” back together … we’re still filing claims and ugh, what a headache that is!
I am so sorry Seleta! That is shocking! How awful to be so violated. Our little ones always know what to say just out of the blue don’t they? They are I am sure the wisest of all of us…. Love to you and your family.:)
Jennifer
Kristy, I’m so sorry you experienced the same. It must be the time of year for theft? Best wishes for pulling it all back together.
xo
Seleta
I am so sorry to hear this happened to you. I had this happen years ago and you do feel so violated. Precious things are now gone, but it’s the memories you have with family and friends that you will hold near and dear to your heart. How sweet of your darling boy to say something so genuine and profound. You are raising your children to be thoughtful and incredible people and that alone means the world. xo
so sorry to hear about this :( people can really suck!! i hope nothing irreplaceable was taken. glad to hear you have taken something positive from such an ugly thing. and that boy of yours is totally adorable. you are going to have a handful when girls start coming around!!
I love hearing wise words from children. They put life in perspective.
Sorry about all the drama and stress lately. Glad that you are finding the sunshine in life.
I just posted about our cars and garage being broken into last Friday. We were pretty upset about that but were thankful that they didn’t get into our house. I’m so sorry you’re having to deal with this Seleta. My poor daughter was so scared about the cars/garage that I can’t imagine what your sweet kiddos are going through.
Times are getting scarier out there every day. We just have to stick together and stay strong and with an attitude like yours, I have no doubt you’ll come out in front of all of this nonsense.
Big hugs~
Tricia
Well said! I love how you think, and how you were able to not think about the bad, and start a list that everyone should try! I will, thanks for reminding us of what is truly important…even the crazy pets. So sorry about your house being broken into, very scary indeed.
I am so sorry that happened! Have them check your blogger followers, ugh! I was right on board with your life lesson until… You posted that gorgeous picture before primping!!! Ugh . I Need a Major makeover:( at least the people I have the privilege of looking every day are all knockouts… My kids!!!
I’m sad to read what you and your family have been through. I appreciate your perspective and wonderful reminder to focus on what really matters in life. Your positive attitude is inspiring!
You all are so sweet and inspiring, thanks for the continued kind thoughts. Sparkle on!
xo
Seleta
I’m so sorry to hear about this. Thank you so much for sharing & still seeing the sparkle in the midst of it all. Not many people can do that. Thank you for being inspiring.
A friend of mine is reading the book “1000 gifts” & it inspired her to get a journal {a really cute leather/vintage looking one lol} and she is writing 1000 things she is thankful for in life. She keeps the journal in her purse & she gets it out when she’s waiting on an appointment, before bed, drinking her morning coffee, etc. A little here & there. This post reminded me that I need to read that book. It’s so awesome that the things we treasure most aren’t things at all. I hope the weather clears up & the sunshine stays out for a long time! =)
It sucks that you/your home has been violated like that but your attitude is very inspiring and uplifting :) You truly seem like a wonderfuly sparkley person!!
I’m so sorry! That’s horrible. I’ll be praying for you and your family. So thankful that everyone is ok (including your furry family members) despite what happened.
Oh my goodness! I’m speechless! You have to keep us updated…what a bizarre story, and so unnerving. I’m so sorry!
So very sorry this happened to your family. :-( Great job keeping it in perspective. Sending you good thoughts of serenity and “reader love” for your love bank!
What a sad thing to happen and difficult to explain to your children. The sharp increase in robberies around the country these days are due to economic conditions. Yours appears to be extreme jealousy! The person that entered your home and took from you will undoubtedly feel guilt, embarrassment and shame, even if they are never caught. That must be a terrible load to carry.
We live in the county where the school shootings were this week. Three teenage boys went to school on an average day and never came home. None of them were bullies as many assume. Average with everyone active, cared for and safely tucked into bed at night are our greatest blessing.
I sometimes use the note app on my phone to add to my gratitude list when I am feeling irritable or depressed. The list is so amazingly long!
Sorry, omitted the word days on comment above…
Average days where nothing eventful happens and everyone is healthy, active and loved…those days are God’s greatest blessing!
so so sorry. what a sad day. your courage through this is amazing. thank you for the inspiration to remember that things are not what we live for.
seleta,
I pray the gratitude continues to flow.
have your read “1,000 gifts” from ann voskamp?
you would love.
xoxo
OMG!!! What a horrible thing, but I love how you spun the positive into it. When my two were little (they are now a wonderful 32 and 35), I always told them we were rich because we had love and good health. Good for Pierce!!! He has his head on straight.
Despite life’s trials, the Lord is still on the throne. I’m so sorry for your hardship, Seleta. I can’t imagine how that feels. Your attitude is inspiring and I wish that you and your family are able to put this behind and look forward. The woman who did this needs prayer, obviously.
Very sorry to hear this, Seleta – how terrible about your theft. But how terrific and inspiring it is that you chose to reconnect with your sparkle rather than be consumed by anger and fear. You are wonderful. And it seems that your children follow your lead. Sending love.
Seleta,
How sad. I am sorry that this happened to you.
You continue to sparkle and I do hope that the big man upstairs finds justice.
I am a firm believer that he tests us all, no matter what happens and then he is there for us.
You are in my thoughts and prayers and yes, love conquers all.
pve
So sorry to hear about the robbery. What a horrible feeling and I know it must be difficult to get over it. I hope they catch the person and maybe find your beautiful things, plus get this person the help that she might need. Your son is very insightful and you have obviously taught him good values to realize that money and material possessions aren’t really what life is all about. Thanks for the reminder. Hope things get better soon…..
By the way, your son has your eyes! So beautiful!
First of all, I love that you titled this post “Gratitude” because you have every right to be pretty hateful right now. I can’t even believe that a woman would do this, but it makes sense if it were design/decor items that were taken. So totally bizarre. As if everyone in your area hasn’t seen your beautiful home on both your blog and in Southern Living and won’t eventually recognize these items in the theif’s home or on craigslist or something.
Don’t worry, girl, you’re absolutely right about maintaining your sanity and concentrating on gratitude right now. You are a wonderful mom, friend, and decorator so don’t let this mess of a person affect your spirit!
Good for you to sit back, regroup and take time to think about this unfortunate situation. You know its so true….sometimes when bad things happen we wonder why. I’ve found that if I write down all the good stuff and positive things in my life it helps immensely. And more times than not I eventually get the answer as to why. And in the end love is what its all about…its everything. Hugs~
My hat is off to you…you have a genuine positivity that just shines through. Thinking to make some typography art in honor of Pierce: “rich in love”
I am so sorry this happened. I am glad you are hanging in there and counting your blessings. It really is the only way. The photo of you and Pierce is adorable.
What an absolutely terrible thing to have happen! My sister in law’s house was broken into a year or so ago and I remember how violated and scared they felt. (They are now the owners of a very big German Shephard.) I admire you so much for having the attitude about it that you do. It would be so easy to let the anger and fear overcome you. You are strong and you are beautiful and she can’t steal that!
I’m so sorry! Makes me wonder about all of us who post our homes on the internet. I really respect and admire your response…to give thanks and count blessings.
Love the poster you shared. I just posted a “Let Your Light Shine” post and am determined not to let anyone steal my sparkle!
xo,
Linsey
I’m so sorry to hear about your robbery. I cannot believe that someone would steal design items ..of all the outrageous things! How shallow and selfish..to violate your home over a trinket or whatever..
So glad that your sparkle is still shiny..cute baby boy and even cuter disposition..
Wishing you sunshine..
Oh no. That is terribly sad. I know that must have been a sickening feeling. Really enjoyed reading your list of blessings; it made me think more about mine. And those kiddos are all soooo stinkin’ cute and precious. Best to you!
What a nightmare! Only designer items stolen? That’s odd indeed and probably not your average burglar. I do hope they’ll find the culprit soon, it would give you more peace of mind, and I also hope the animals weren’t in the house. That’s always my biggest fear – they could take anything they want but not harm the dog. Get an alarm and stay well !
YUCK and scary!!! I’m so sorry that this happened but YES , nothing was lost that is as important as your beautiful family. Thank goodness. My little sister and her fiance were robbed and were HOME during the robbery..thank god no one was hurt and only material items were taken. Computers, cameras, money..all replaceable. Loved ones-not.
Hello!
I have been taking your wonderful blog for a while…This is the first time for a comment.
I am so sorry for the recent break-in…I can’t imagine what you and your family are going through. I must tell you I was so touch to had read what your youngest son stated, “Mommy.
I want to be rich with love, not money.” Indeed, Pearce has much wealth…With such a wonderful
Mommy and Daddy and his siblings. Applause, applause, that you have taught your children well.
Richness is measured is measured by the number of people you love and the numbers of friends.
Indeed, Pearce is a very wealthy little boy with a great heart!! ~mss. P.S. I agree…Get an alarm ASAP.
Amazing way to look at such an awful thing! Thanks for continuing to inspire and reminding me of what is important.
BTW- are you 15??? You look amazing just waking up! Add that to the list!;)
Seleta, I am sorry your home and life were violated like this. However you have truly used this to tell others how you are learning and how you approach even bad things in your life. The picture of your beautiful face and your sweet baby boys gorgeous face together melted my heart. How precious were his words. Even at 6 years old he GETS IT!! I know so many adults that have never gotten it, nor will they ever get it! God bless your sweet sweet family,
Kathysue
I am so sorry this happened to you. I know that feeling well of feeling violated. We’ve had it happen a couple times. It’s sad people have to stoop to that level. You are so right about what truly matters in our lives…still there is that sting of someone coming into your private home…your sanctuary. I keep a daily gratitude journal and it’s the first thing I do each morning to begin my day. Good for you for writing a list of blessings and gifts in your life. It does help. Well, you look gorgeous, Seleta and have an amazing attitude.
Wow! So sorry. I can only imagine how you must have felt. Good for you for turning your focus to something positive. It is a true reminder of what is really important in life…… including that precious Pierce! Hope there’s plenty of sunshine heading your way!
So sorry to hear about your break in. I can not imagine how creepy that must feel. Love your attitude always an inspiration!
Oh my goodness! Can you even fathom that someone in your own neighborhood would do that to you and your family? I am outraged for you.
I started keeping a gratitude journal when I was having a hard time getting pregnant, and it was so much more helpful than I expected it to be. I encourage everyone to try it!
I’m so sorry to hear about what happened. Glad that you and your family are all safe though. Our family lives on a farm in Kentucky. A few months ago, we as well as many others in our area were targets of a theft ring from across the state line in Tennessee. They were not entering our homes but stealing from our garages, carports, yards, vehicles, etc. After about 4 months, the thieves were finally caught after a dangerous truck chase by one of the homeowners in the early stages of another attempted robbery. Hope your perpetrator will soon be caught also.
Seleta,
You are truly beautiful ~ inside and out.
Dear Seleta, your story brought back a memory, I was about 12 or so, we had come home from the county fair, and as we walked up the stairs (it was a bi level home) the drapes were billowing inwards wildly…and as we looked around the house was ransacked. Violated, scared comes to mind, when your home isnt safe you are rocked. I am sorry this happened. Last week our storage place was broke into, and it seems to be a growing issue everywhere as desperate people make very poor choices. You continue to shine and sparkle, I love the way you processed your emotions and chose to take a higher road for yourself and your family. And I am on my way to make my gratitude list. Thanks for sharing. e
Hi Seleta, I am from Malaysia and am an avid follower of your blog although I live over the seas, and far, far away. I am so sorry to hear about the break in, but I am so encouraged by the way you decided to turn the whole experience into something positive and meaningful.
I shall remember this the next time a storm comes my way.
P.S: Another thing you can add to your list – amazing figure even after 4 kids!
If this really was the work of one of your own neighbors, she must be a very miserable, sick woman, consumed with envy and spite. She will never have what you have, no matter what she takes from your home.
You have taken the high road with this and should be very proud of the example you have shown to your children and all of us.
Seleta, this hurts my heart to read your post. In the midst of such a personal violation, I am in awe of your ability to take a step back and remember all the blessings in your life – you are truly an inspiration! I hope whoever did this is caught and you are able to recover some of your belongings. Much love!
oh dear, Seleta. I’m so sorry about the break-in. My mother recently had a break-in and some of her mother’s jewelry was stolen. She was devastated. You are so right to remind us of the things that really matter in life — love, family, friends. But the fact is that things matter to us too, though on a totally different level. Your home is so lovely and special — I hope you’ll be able to recover some of the missing items.
I am so sorry this happened to your family! What a way to get perspective on our lives – though this person took your possessions, they can never take what is inside of you. I am so glad you are all safe. Hugs!
Sue
I’m catching up on your blog and amd so sorry to hear this! Your persective is absolutely correct. I am so glad that you and your family are safe as that is what is most important. Your son is lovely just like you!
Oh my gosh – this is so shocking! I’m so sorry you and your family had to go through this, Seleta. To echo the thoughts of all of the commenters – I am amazed by your ability to seek out the positive in a negative situation. Thank you for sharing your story (even though it isn’t a happy story) – you are such an inspiration. I hope you have a long, restful weekend!
Bless your heart. I know from experience what you are going through. A long time ago someone broke in while we were out of town and stole some of my jewelry… including your Great Grandmother’s wedding ring, my opal collection, etc. The violation was immense, but as you said, you have to move forward.
I’m so sorry you had to experience this, but am so PROUD of your attitude. This is such an encouragement for those who have had similar experiences, but have difficulty expressing their feelings. You have such a gift.
You are so wise Seleta! I tell this to my clients ALL the time. It completely changes one’s perspective.
I am sorry that this happened to you. I can only imagine how yucky it would feel but I am thrilled that you did not let anyone steal your sparkle.
And I kind of want to hate you because you wake up so looking so beautiful but I can’t because I know that beauty is more than skin deep.
Have a peaceful weekend.
I am not sure I was clear in my above comment…but what I was saying is that I know you are beautiful inside AND out!
I am so sorry to hear that this happened to your family. How awful and sad. Your son’s perspective is so true and wouldn’t people be so happy if they knew what he knows. I will say a prayer for the person who stole from you in the hopes that they realize that they need to be rich with love, not things……… Keep up that sparkle…..
Seleta,
This hurts all of us to hear of your troubles. It can happen to anyone, and I am so terribly sorry you were violated. We have been robbed before, and it does feel like rape.
God bless you and your beautiful family and I hope your life gets back to better than normal soon. You are such a good person, life will yield buckets of love to you…
I can’t believe what Pierce said. Children are angels, that’s for sure.
XOXO
Nancy
Powellbrowerhome.com
Oh, Seleta, I am so very sorry!! You may have seen that this happened to me just about a year ago. Unlike your burglary, I think our thieves were professionals – they were in and out before the police could respond (to the alarm, which was ripped off the wall), and they only went for jewelry and my laptop. I wrote this post in the aftermath …
http://tracizeller.com/blog/2011/my-top-ten-tips-to-reduce-the-chances-of-a-home-invasion/
… in hopes that people would learn a few tips to reduce their chances of this happening!
Hi Seleta,
I have read your blog for a long time but was inspired to post today because I thought your post was so well written. We should all take the time to focus on our many gifts- especially our children and other things that aren’t material. Your post really resonated with me so I wanted to tell you so that you knew. take care,
S
Shocked that this happened — I am stunned that someone would do this. The important thing is that they only wanted material things and no one was hurt. To humble and wise of you to focus on the good things going on in your life — not an easy thing to do when things aren’t going your way. Kudos to you! I hope your weekend brings you some calm. Much love.
I”ve looked at your blog for design ideas but have never posted a comment. My heart sank when I read your story. 8 years ago my home was broken in to and all of ,y jewelry was stolen, ecery piece of jewelry I ever owned. I had recently lost both my grandmothers and had been give all their beautiful pieces, many of which I had reset. The particular night, it was quite hot and I was off to my sons basketball game…not wanting to be hot, I left all my usual pieces at home. Probably 100,000 worth of gems, gold etc. The sentimental part still haunts me, makes me angry and so sad. I just don’t get ‘bad people’. Your insight is wonderful, please give yourself permission to grieve…it is very normal. I hope this thief is caught. So glad no one was hurt!! To include the animals. Miry robbery was the only one and I of course felt even more violated. So sorry, I do understand your pain
Sending you a wee cuddle.
hey seleta! i am so sorry about what happened but you are sooo right in everything that you said and because of that I loved this post – Always a struggle to try and not cherish the things that we own so much and it’s hard!
I am so sorry this happened to you and your family. You are a constant blessing and inspiration to me and I have always admired how take time to be thankful and joyous about the things that are really important in life.
I’m glad you’re keeping a positive perspective about the whole thing. I’m sorry to hear you’re home was broken into. I just can’t believe some people. But you’ve been blessed abundantly with love, not just material things, so God will see yall through as He always has.
I was cruising through your post (I was in the mood for eye candy) without reading the text. When I got to the sweet photo of you and your youngest I thought, “What beautiful skin!” . I wondered what skin products you use so I thought I would read the comments in case you answered that inevitable question. The first few posts were expressing sorrow and I had to go back and read the post. I am sorry for the violation – what a sad person that is so unhappy with her life that she had to steal some possessions of yours! Would it be callous to also ask what skin products you use?
Ugh, Seleta. I just popped on here to catch up on your blog. I am so sorry this has happened to you. I have never been robbed so I don’t know how that feels, but I can imagine :(
On the bright side, the picture of you and Pierce is captivating. I love his sheepish expression and you, my friend, are stunning.
Have a much better week and hopefully with lots of sunshine.
I’m feeling so sad for you and your family reading this. Not about the “stuff”, but of the violation you must be feeling. I, too, have been violated in the past, and it’s an awful feeling. Although it can turn into strength & empowerment! My thoughts are with you and your beautiful family :)
I love this post! Thank you for sharing!
Thanks for posting this. I’m so sorry to hear about your break-in….I also had a break-in this week and I’m still dealing with it. Thanks for reminding me to focus on all that I DO have instead of all the the thief took. Loving the picture with you and Pierce.
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