Recently
Filbert (aka hazelnut) orchard outside Albany, Oregon.
Today I'm working away from home at a little coffee shop.
I'm writing and I'm watching and I'm listening. Writing about life and business and family and adventure. Watching people come in and out, placing their orders and going on their way. Listening to the murmur of hushed conversations and to familiar songs as they come on the radio that plays quietly on speakers overhead.
Recently I've been meeting new people. A new relationship lends itself to the introduction of new people and places and sounds and sights and smells and stories. I'm shaking hands and welcoming hugs and explaining what I do and who I am and why I'm wherever it is that I am and listening and smiling. Lots and lots of smiling - the kind that makes your face tired.
Recently I've been embracing a place I never imagined I'd be.
Recently I've been connecting with old friends. A new relationship sometimes also has roots in the past, as is the case for me right now and I'm gathering together with people I haven't seen in years. People who I'm genuinely so very happy to see and reminisce with and catch up on life. Amazingly enough I'm getting the chance to answer the "what if" question and so far it's been magical and tender and filled with fun.
Recently I've been hugging my kids extra tight. I'm amazed at how they are growing, amazed at their resilience, amazed at how completely blessed I am to get to share my life with them.
Recently I've been listening to this and it will probably be a song that always reminds me of this summer:
Recently I've been embracing it all, taking it all in, and moving forward one breath, one step at a time.
DOWNLOADABLE WORKSHOPS ON SALE | Looking for a little memory keeping inspiration this weekend? I just put Storyology and FIVE on sale for $10 each (through Monday).
Happy you are reconnecting with old friends and so glad your life is in a much better place, may you, Anna and Simon continue to thrive!
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Dear Ali:
Since Simon was a wee boy, I have been reading your blog and following your story... Your pregnancy and birth of Anna, correlated with the birth of one of my children...you are one cool chic who I admire from afar (I know if you lived in Green Bay, WI we would be besties!!) I love to hear the joy in your writing and I'm sorry that you are experiencing all that you are experiencing - God bless you!
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You share with and inspire so many! I wish you every happiness!
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I always find you to be completely inspiring. Even when you opened the door to your heartbreak. Thank you for showing the real you. And by the way, that is a totally bitchen song! I hate to use that word, but can't think of a better one.
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GO ALI GO!!!
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Ali,
by reading your newsletter I understood something was difficult in your life, however your beautiful soul will continue shinning in new places or familiar place because you shine wherever you are. Ann
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Words are soooooo important..Thank you
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Thanks for sharing some of your life. Be Happy
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what a great post--your happiness shines through. thank you for sharing your journey with us. i continue to wish you and your children all the best.
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Love is better the second time around...I speak from experience. Hoping the same for you.
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Wow, a "what if". My heart swelled. So very happy for you.
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Amazing to embrace the "what if" in life.
And to take that deep breath and take the step forward.
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I haven't visited your blog in a while, I came here from Stephanie's link to your post "I want to remember" and just clicked through.
This post reminds me of your authenticity and your graciousness. Something I always admired about you, and still do. You live your life with everyone looking on, and you do it so honestly and in a way that teaches us all to be better people in every single thing that we say, think and do.
Brava ragazza.
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Thanks for your inspiration and strength. God bless you for leaping out there and moving forward. I love this quote,it goes something like this, you never know how strong you are until strong is the only choice. Life is BEAUTIFUL!
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gorgeous and brave post. you inspire me, as always. thank you.
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