The Evolution Of My Story
It's always been my goal to authentically share my story both in my scrapbooks and in this online space.
To me that means addressing the good, the bad, the beautiful, the successes, the challenges - the very real pieces of my life.
As many of you have noticed, and some have commented and emailed, Chris has been mostly absent for some time from the stories and photos. He has decided that he wants something different with his life and we are in the process of getting a divorce.
Chris continues to maintain an active role in the kid's lives.
There is nothing easy about this.
It's very hard and very stressful and very sad.
And yet, the story continues for all of us. For him and me. For the kids and me. For him and the kids. And there are many, many things I have to be thankful for in my life.
I've always maintained, and taught in my workshops, that not all stories need to be told.
But here, in this space, it's important to me that there's a general awareness of this change. This will allow me to more authentically share my story going forward.
A few months ago I asked for your prayers, your positive energy, your wishes of strength and peace, and your compassion. I'd humbly ask for your continued kindness as this specific chapter closes and new ones begin.
As you consider leaving a comment I would also humbly ask that you focus on something positive, compassionate and/or uplifting. Our heartfelt intent is to maintain a positive relationship as we move forward in our lives.
Wishing all of you, especially any of you who may be experiencing something similar within your own family, peace during the Christmas season.
I don't know how is your sorrow in this moment, but i think that you're able to look at tomorrow with joy... I wish you that the light of Christmas comes into your heart ... a big hug
Buon Natale
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i have too words for you in Maori (2nd language of NZers)
KIA KAHA
stay strong
arohanui (big love) from Mandyb
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Ali, you know that I hold you dear to my heart. Not all stories are happy ones, nor are all of them easy to share. You taught us this in Italy this year. By sharing your story with all of us here, you have taken the first step in healing. I know it wasn't an easy decision. Please remember that you are loved by so many and there are many, many arms to hold you up. Wishing for all of you to be surrounded by peace and love during these holidays, I am thinking of you and sending you many hugs.
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Oh, Ali, my heart goes out to you. You're so right that sometimes, for authenticity's sake, we must sometimes reveal things we'd rather keep private. But now that your readers know, you are free to allow this part of your story show itself - as you choose - on your pages. And it IS part of your story. I so respect your honesty and your choice to maintain a positive relationship with Chris. I only know you from reading your blog, of course, but I've learned that you're a wise and compassionate woman and I would expect nothing less. I pray you'll find strength and peace as your family moves forward. Thanks for sharing your life with us. I wish I could give you a big hug. :)
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Prayers of strength and peace for you and your precious children. The love & devotion of your extended family is amazing. It seems they will be a wonderful source of support and strength and a wonderful blessing. All the best to you.
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I am so sad to hear about what happened. Relationship is messy and needs a lot of work. I'm not a religous person, but I'm sending you positive thoughts, strength, and courage. You are a strong woman. I know you can take a big step into the next chapter of your life. Don't forget your kids love you and need you. We all love you here and will give you support all the way.
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Hugs, hugs, hugs to all of you from Finland!
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Ali, you are one of the most giving people I know. Its time for us to give back to you. I hope you feel the love of all of us out here who read your blog. I will be praying for you and your family. You are fortunate to have loving parents for a source of support and strenght.
I wish that there was more I could do for you but just know that you are in my thoughts and prayers. I wish only the best for you. A door may have closed but somewhere a window is opening.
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I'm sorry to hear this news. I've been following your blog for a while and enjoy the way you celebrate the beauty of everyday life. Sending prayers your way.
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You give so much that I cannot select the perfect OLW to express my gratitude, awe, and admiration of you. As it has been said, your honesty is refreshing. Thank you and wishing you all the best during this transition. Things will change, but different does not have to be bad. You will make it great.
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I have no doubt the you are wearing your big girl knickers right now and putting on a brave face for all especially those closest to you. Just know that you will prevail as will your beautiful family...as new doors open, challenges are met and you continue to flourish and prosper. Take care of you... and all the pieces will fall into place the right way up. xxox
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Like many I have wondered and hoped for you. You have been an inspiration to me, to so many and I know you will continue to be. Wishing you strength and love. Big hugs to you and your beautiful incredible children.
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Ali, How are Anna and Simon doing with this? I pray for you and your family. May God grant you peace and comfort during this Christmas season.
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I am very sorry. Of course.
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Oh Ali, I took a deep intake of breath when I read this. You have many, many online followers who will be there for you, you know, when you need a bit of air in your sails. We all thank you so much for the inspiration you provide - perhaps its time to give a bit of something back. Here's hoping that, in the months to come, you get lots of positive, hope-giving comments just as you need them. You have built an amazing online community here, you know - we're all rooting for you and know you can get through this in the only way you know how. Best foot forward, head up, positive thoughts canceling out the inevitable 'What ifs' and 'Oh no's'. Here's to YOU, Ali. You, Ali. You the Mum. You the successful business women. Here's to a wonderful 2012 and beyond.
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Even though you haven't said it until now, we've all seen you telling the story in pictures rather than words. May your putting words to this part of your story provide you the strength to make a great path for you. May light shine on you this Christmas.
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Heartfelt prayers & thoughts are with you all as you move toward a new normal. "...choose joy" is a phrase I've come across more than a few times in the past week so I take your message as another confirmation of that same message for myself. Thank you for sharing your story. Thank you for authenticity.
We all hold you in our hearts and lift you up. Much love to you all.
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Dear Ali, I wish you all the best for the upcoming month in your life with all the changes involved. But most of all I wish you the strength to maintain a good relationship with Chris for the sake of your children. I am divorced and I am lucky to be on a friendshipbase with my ex. My saying always is and always will be: You can split up as spouses, but you can never split up as parents and therefore you have to find a base on which to communicate the needs and life of the children. Unfortunatly a lot of people are not able to do so. I am a new follower of you blog, but I have the feeling, that you will be a person, to do the right thing. I wish you all the best. Greetings from Germany.
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Thinking of you and sending you good wishes, strength and love!
You are one of a kind!
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Sorry to hear about this. I admire your honesty and think that in the end you and Chris will do well by the children. For now have the best Christmas you can have and all the best for 2012.
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You will be okay.
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Im very sorry to hear this sad news Ali. I visit your blog all the time and feeling like I know you and this made me very sad to hear, but you are a strong woman and I know you will get through this. I wish you a merry christmas and know that you are in my thoughts during this hard time. You have two beautiful children who will help you to move through this new chapter in your lives.
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Take care of yourself Ali. You are an amazing woman who have given so many of us strength and inspiration. I hope that you are able to get the strength you need from those around you when you need it at this time. You are much loved and I am thinking of you in your latest challenge!
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God Bless you all Ali. Thank you for your honesty. I wish you all the peace and joy of the Christmas Season.
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You've influenced my life (and my story) in so many ways, Ali. You have been an online role model to me since the day I found your blog. It was before Anna was born when you were giving the "Baby A" room tour.
Now it's my turn to give back to you. And the best thing I know to give is a virtual whisper of you can do this. You are loved – by people you know, by people you've never met. My heart is with you.
Katie
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