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.
Ali, My thoughts are with you during this transition in your life. Keep your head high and your thoughts positive and everything will work out in the end. Our struggles just make the good times even better. Thank you for opening up to us because, like me, many of us feel like you and the kids are family because we have watched your grow and live. Much Love...Monica
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Sharing your authentic self to us your readers is such a gift to us and we all thank you. Its very hard to do sometimes and not only have you done it with your friends you have shared with us strangers.
You are one strong lady and your children have been blessed to have you both in their lives.
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You give all of us such inspiration and joy every day as you share that amazing talent you have. You are a beautiful person Ali, honest, warm, and sincere. I hope you know how special you are, and that you feel even a little bit of the love back. I hope that you can draw strength from that love when you need to. I wish you joy and peace this holiday season and always. You and Simon and Anna are in my prayers. Sending you all love and hugs.
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Choosing joy. Seeing it there in the faces of those children of yours and in your face too. In all things you touch. In sharing your life here on this blog.
Choosing joy.
A positive and brave thing to do.
Sending joyful and positive thoughts to you.
Mel
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I don't know what to say, especially when others have already said it so well, but I wanted you to know that I'm thinking of you and your family, too.
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May you all have a holiday of PEACE, LOVE AND JOY.
Relax, take in those beutiful smiles of your children, let the hugs,warmth and LIGHT, envelop you all.
Vicki
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I noticed the change in your photos on your blog...I am sorry you have to go through this. But always remember that you are loved and cherished by many; this will pass and, as old and "cheesy" as it may sound, when one door closes a window always opens. Your window is opening. I will keep you and Simon and Anna in my prayers.
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Oh Ali I’m so very sorry, you have my heartfelt sympathy & admiration for the tough road ahead.
I pray you all find your joy again! G
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Sending you hugs and my prayers, and wishing you peace at this difficult time.
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((Hugs)) I'm sorry you are going through this difficult thing.
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Thank you for being real and brave enough to share your story. Wishing you all the happiness you deserve.
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You are such an inspiration and motivation to me. Wishing you strength and health during this season of your life.
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Blessing to you, Ali. Your grace during this time is amazing and your children are blessed to have you.
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Thanks for being honest and open. I've been in your shoes. But i truly believe in the saying, "As one door closes another opens." You have uplifted and inspired so very many of us through the years, I hope that you are uplifted and inspired by you family, friends, and fans during this transition. Sending positive thoughts for you and your family.
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I am a faithful follower of your blog (like so many) for a couple of years now and have found comfort and inspiration through the stories & projects that you have shared. I thank you so very much for that. I also appreciate your openness and honesty in sharing such personal matters. You are in my thoughts. Sending you all the best this holiday season and in the new year!
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For once I am a little lost for words, so I'm sending great big hugs to you all.
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My prayers are with you, Chris and the kids. It was very brave of you to blog about this - I'm sure it's difficult to be a public figure and to deal with a big life change like this.
You are a strong woman and I know you'll get through this with the love and support of your family and friends!
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You are such a positive force in my life. You help me bear a load that sometimes I don't think I can - so my positive message is to let you know how invaluable and wonderful you are. And to thank you. And to tell you how sure I am that you life will continue to be so meaningful to thousands of people in this world. Love you.
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What to say that hasn't already been said.....except I too admire your courage and grace. After reading all the comments posted I get the feeling that we have all kind of wrapped you up in a big blanket hoping to make you feel better.
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You have such a beautiful heart. I'm sure you and your family will be blessed with the gift of love.
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You have inspired me for years now. May we all inspired you. You have such a passionate soul, and are SO inpsirational and creative. May god bless you!
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Ali - I am so sorry to hear about you and Chris. I will keep you and your family in my prayers. I want to thank you for the quote. I think I want to tattoo it to my body. My mom was just diagnosed with (bad) cancer and this was a great message at such a bad time. Peace be with you and your beautiful family.
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I've been clinging to these words this past week: "Joy is a calm delight, despite circumstances." It lifts my spirit to know that we can have joy in our lives even in the midst of the very hardest times. Many prayers for you and your family & wishing you much joy this Christmas.
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I send you and Simon and Anna thoughts of love, peace and simple joys for the holidays. Your light will always shine for all of us.
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Prayers for you and your family. If anyone can find a new beginning from this ending, I suspect it is you. Lean hard on that wonderful family of yours. Their love will carry you through.
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