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 am so sorry to hear this. I hope you and your family have calm and peace as you move forward. Thank you for the courage to share.
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Dear Ali,
I am so sorry to hear this news. Please know that you are very much appreciated for your art and your craft. I hope you and your family can move forward together in as much peace and harmony in such a difficult situation.
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Ali, I read your blog everyday and you have such a wonderful approach to life that I didn't even notice. I am really sorry for you and your family, but I know that you have such incredible strength to keep moving forward. Thinking of you.
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I'm more of a lurker on your blog. I suspected what was going on behind the scenes (sometimes, what isn't said or shown speaks volumes), but didn't have the temerity to ask. I'm so sorry this is happening to your family and to you. Jese, Gaby, and others who've commented before me have already said it better than I could. Peace for you during the holidays, and I also send virtual hugs.
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Have been thinking of you lately and looming closely hoping something different was happening. Am very sorry to hear the news but will continue to keep you in prayers and thoughts.
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Your kids are lucky to have you two as parents. Sending you thoughts of peace and love.
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I'm so sorry Ali... I keep typing something then erasing it... so I will just say: you are loved. you are an incredible mother and you are such a brave, strong woman. Thank you for sharing your light. xoxo
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Hey beautiful, brave lady- reading this sad news makes my heart heavy, but I have no doubt you'll come through it all with the grace and strength that you so uniquely possess, and that you've inspired so many with throughout the years. Many positive thoughts and prayers coming your way during this most difficult time- I am praying for you that it will be a smooth and gentle journey into happier times. xoxox
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You are such an incredibly strong and brave woman. As a child of divorce I know the pain and struggles your family is facing but I also know that you will get through it a stronger person. And I know that you will get your children, Simon & Anna through this season with grace and truth. Prayers to you and your family.
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Sending you all my love and peace during this time and holiday season. You are truly a great woman, one of the best, and one of the finest ever to grace the beast of a car all those years ago. Hugs!
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I have followed you since you were just posting at 2 Peas and have always appreciated your ability to tell your story of life. For all of us, life is a journey and it is complicated. This is another piece in the journey of a very rich life. And your ablility to show your truth and be candid is something I have always appreciated about you. May you have the peace and strength you need to move through this time. And know that this is a piece of your story that will make you stronger in the end.
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Thank you for being generous enough to live your life in full view. You are brave and courageous.
I hope that you will find this an inspiring quote from one of my favorite brave and courageous women: “You have to accept whatever comes, and the only important thing is that you meet it with the best you have to give.”
― Eleanor Roosevelt
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Ali,
You are an inspiration to many. My heart aches for you and your family in this time. Please know that I and so many others have been lifting you up in prayer since you first mentioned the need. May you feel surrounded by the Peace that passes all understanding this Christmas and beyond.
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Sending you love, hugs and courage for your life going forward :) And there will be one heck of a life to be lived :) You and Chris have produced 2 very beautiful children and it was definitely worth it. All the very best, Ali :)
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I have a great respect for the poise and dignity you are choosing as you face this transition. I'm sending my prayers your way for you and your darling children.
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Always remember when things are not going as planned that this too shall pass.There is always beauty after the rain and the storms.Thank you Ali for the inspiration that you continue to give! I will be praying for abundant blessings in your new chapter and the new year!
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I've been following your blog for a while now and I want to thank you for being so open & honest with your audience. Last week, I went through a miscarriage at 5 months and the first thing I did was write about it publicly. While you never wish harm on people, it always feels good to know that you are not alone in facing challenges in life. I wish you peace of mind and comfort of heart this holiday season and thank you for being a human - not just a character or "brand." Hugs!
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Wow Ali. You are loved by many. And I am one. PS. Christmas package on it's way - stand by!
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Ali, I have been hoping and praying that this wasn't happening to you! My heart breaks for you and the kids that you are experiencing this awful part of life. I wish you peace, joy and happiness as you begin this next chapter in your book of life. Prayers for all of you!
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Ali,
You've been on my mind so much of late as we both work (simultaneously)through loss, through grief (death of my sister/your divorce)through changes, and on to moving forward. (Life really does have to progress and to move on).Trying to stay positive and find joy in each day, no matter how small. Baby stepping to the next moment we encounter, if that's what it takes. Please know that you and your family are in my prayers. Please remember that (to quote The Help) "You are kind. You are smart. You are important." And most importantly, you are loved. (By so, so many!)
Huge cyber hugs and positive thoughts headed your way.
Suz
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I wish you a Merry Christmas with your family.
Go ahead, Ali have much capacity to improve, you're strong, you're positive, generous and you, have made many people happy with your art and your philosophy of life and that happiness back to you.
A new road in front, new positive challenges.
Kisses and hugs.
Beatriz Penas
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"God grant me the serenity
to accept the things I cannot change;
courage to change the things I can;
and wisdom to know the difference".
You can do this Ali, I just know you can. My heart breaks for you but I know you can get through this. Wishing you and the kids all my love. corinnexxx
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I love that Joseph Campbell quote and it reminds me of another favorite quote of mine.
"The happiest people don't have the best of everything. They just make the best of everything."
They're both good reminders that you can't always change the ways things happen, and that really the only thing you ever have control over is how you react to things as they unfold.
How generous and brave of you to share your story. Best wishes to you and your family during this time.
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I'm so very sorry that your family is going through this rough time. But, having gone through my sister's divorce with her, I can say now that everything happens for a reason. You will come out of this stronger than before...nothing about this is easy now, but please remember you have a world of people who support you and love you - even more so now that you've shared your personal story with us. Best wishes, Ali!!
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Just wanted to post to let you know my heart is hurting for you, but also to echo many to say you are an amazing woman who's been dealt a painful blow. Thank you for being authentic, for choosing to be vulnerable and share this and allow me--and many, many more--to help you, even if it's just with this simple comment here. You are definitely stronger than you may believe now. Sending you prayers and thoughts of peace and acceptance and love. :)
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