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.
Don't know you personally, but have faithfully followed your blog for a while now and sending positive mojo your way.
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Ali, my heart is breaking for you. I cannot imagine how difficult this must be for you, BUT as you have encouraged so many with your positive attitude & uplifting spirit, I know you will get through this & you will continue to glow as you always have. Praying for all four of you. Hugs to you, Simon & Anna. Hang in there girl! :)
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Ali, thank you for sharing your story with us.
You and your family are in my prayers.
I want to say do not give up, you can pray everyday and I recommend visit and buy this book http://lovedarestories.com/Default.aspx
At this situation the human vision it is not enough.
All my best wishes for a peaceful season.
PS: You can buy one book for Chris too.
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Dear Ali,
Thank you for always sharing, always leading by example, always being so real, so inspiring. I'm so sorry you are going through this. I'm keeping you and your family in my prayers, you are so strong and so caring, you have touched so many people's lives through your blog. You problably don't even realize what a gift you are to others. God Bless you.
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Ali,
I've been wondering and thinking about you alot lately (after that last post that you mentioned 'having some problems')
I wish you all the very best.
Best wishes
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Ali, My thoughts and prayers are with you as you continue this journey. Thank you for being so honest, real, and full of grace as you continue to share your life with us. You are amazing! I know this must be difficult for you, but you have inspired so many and continue to do so! I hope you don't mind if I share some of your words from this post with a dear friend of mine who is going through a separation right now. I wish you and your family a very happy holiday and may the "light" of the season fill you with peace and joy!
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I'm so sorry Ali. You are an amazing and strong woman. God bless you and your family.
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You inspire so many people from all corners of the world to tell their story. I admire you for your strength and grace. I have followed your blog for years, even before I took your "Week in the Life" class at CKU-Anaheim. You are an amazing spirit and I wish you peace and strength as you pass through these challenging times. Best wishes for a peaceful holiday. Love to you and Simon and Anna. Know that you are loved by many.
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Ali,
I was shocked and heartbroken to see this news. I guess after you said it, I did think back and realize his absence, but you know, I would have never known through the words you have shared here in your others stories and photos. It is quite obvious to me that not only will you make it through this, but you will make everything okay for you children, as well. I know that's probably high in your worries, but from what I've seen--as always--you are a strong, confidant, fun, active mother and that will never change. It also is apparent that you have had the support of all of your family and what a blessing that is! Not only do they love you, but so do all of us, your "online" family. We all send our love to you and pray for your strength in moving forward. God bless you all
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Peace is a good word to focus on.
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You are so inspirational. I am in awe of your grace, dignity and honesty. Best wishes to all of you during this incredibly difficult time.
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I've wondered about this, but didnt feel it was my place to ask. I've just enjoyed all the posts focused on the kids and getting to see Christmas through their eyes.
You are a true inspiration to embracing life - good or bad.
Enjoy the holidays, look forward to the future as its so much brighter. Big Hug to you.
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Thinking of you and your family with much love, Ali. I know you will handle this change in your lives with beauty and grace, as always. :)
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brave beautiful creative inspiring Ali... sending you love from my area of the world to you. have a beautiful christmas with your lovely children and continue to focus on the positive and big blessings in your life. hugs. Leslie.
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Ali I know what your family means to you so my heart feels heavy for the pain and loss you are experiencing. You are such a strong woman, supported by incredible friends and family that love you, Simon and Anna very much. Your parents are your rocks and will give you so much comfort and strength as you move forward. I will keep all of you in my prayers, much love to you.
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Ali, you are an amazing woman and a great mom. You and your family are in my thoughts, and I wish you peace.
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My heart goes out to you and your family. Everything will be ok.
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Got goosebumps reading this. We just never know the road bumps we must endure in this lifetime. I pray that you will gain strength from the Lord who gives it upon asking! I want to share with you a scripture thats near and dear to me. Romans 15:13.
You've been there online for me this year when I needed something in my life and I want to be an encouragement to you! Thank you so much!
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I have traveled on this path -- and it's never the same experience for anyone of course -- but we light the path for you and send you love, encouragement, peace and tenderness as you move along it.
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My heartfelt wishes to you and all your family. A BIG hug from Canada. Ali P
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Just know that you are not alone. My now ex-husband left us when our son was just two and I have been living the single Mom role for a few years now. My mantra is the Serenity Prayer... so helpful when you feel your life is not in your control. I applaud your courage. I know this post must have been a difficult one. Be true to yourself and take care of yourself too as that is the best gift you can give both yourself and your children. Your own strength will amaze you. Trust me.
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Ali,
I met you years ago at a little scrapbook store in Michigan and since then you have always been an inspiration to me. I will share with you a passage that I keep on my dresser mirror, that I look at every single morning to sometimes get me through a difficult day: "Be patient. Our prayers are always answered, but not always on the exact day we'd like them to be."
God Bless you with grace during this time, and let the joy your children and family bring you help you through this time.
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I had to deal with tragedy in my youth. Your kids will be fine because their parents are good people. I live every day with what happened in my youth. But here I am, making a contribution to society, bringing up good kids, and determined to learn from the circumstances of my youth (and protect my kids from the same). Surround yourself with positive people. Make connections. And consider your kids first and all will work out. God Bless you. You are in my prayers.
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I have been where you are Ali and I want you to know that I managed to come out of my situation stronger and better than before. Life isn't easy but the challenges are what help us grow into the people we are supposed to be. Enjoy your holidays and those beautiful children. I'll be sending positive thoughts your way.
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Ali,
Sending you love, prayers, and wishes for peace and healing. You are an amazing woman and have inspired so many. May God hold you in the palm of his hand during this trying time in your life. Cling to your family, your friends, and your faith, for they will get you through.
Kris
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