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,
Thank you for sharing the triumphs and the struggles in your story and your family's story so authentically. My heart aches for all of you. I am praying that you will experience grace, peace, healing and most of all the light you've so eloquently written about this year as you move into this changing season in your life and your family's life, one day at a time.
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Ali, I have been thinking and praying for you for a while and hoping that this was not the outcome. I pray for resolution and peace during this holiday season and for a good transition into your new lifestyle. You are both great parents to great kids and I believe that you will find the balance in your new relationship. It is such an admirable quality of yours to be so honest and transparent with so many of us, but I know that I can say this for many that we will support and encourage you with thoughts and prayers and you have a lot of people who care about you.
Hugs to you, Simon and Anna and Merry Christmas!
Gina
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Ali....I sensed, and asked, and now you have answered. You hold a special place in my heart, as a dear friend I've never met. I think of you daily when I visit and always want the best for my family and friends.
You and Chris are both intelligent, caring, and great parents! and if you remain focused on the good for the kids you will come through this. It will be hard, but you have so much love and support with family and friends...draw on that when you need to...I love you and your family and hope for the best in this new chapter.
May you fill the spirit of Christmas this season.
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Thoughts and prayers for you and yours - I know it must be a difficult time for all of you, but you will conquer this challenge. You always do. :)
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There are so many trite things I can say, but I am sure you have heard them all. I will offer this perspective, as a child of divorce, some of the most important people in my life would not be a part of me if my parents had not split. Hug your kiddos tight and know there are so many people near and far who are cheering you on and praying for you guys.
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As I always, I am inspired by you and your honesty. Thank you for staying genuine during this difficult time and sharing what is obviously a difficult chapter in your life. I will keep you and your family in my thoughts and prayers.
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Life is a continuous series of choices, sometimes we make good choices and sometimes bad, but whatever choice we make we learn from it.
Falling in love means learning to accept the impact of someone else’s choices on your life. The good and the bad. I know as you move forward how you choose to deal with his choice will make you the person you will become. You are a strong women and you have the power to move your life beyond this. Good luck with the next chapter, make it a beautiful one!
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Oh my dear, all I can say is that you are an amazing inspiration, I have counted myself so lucky to have been in your presence (and actually sat next to your beautiful mama in one of your classes!). It is true that life is good, bad, beautiful and challenging, sometimes all in one day. Thank you for sharing and inspiring, and in the wise words (....or not so wise....) of a friend I once worked with, "deeeeep breath, baby steps, and right now, if you're not dying of cancer and living under a bridge, it could be so much worse". Though sometimes it doesn't feel that way.
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Hi Ali,
Thanks for sharing this intimate part of your life with all of us. Remember that so many of your followers have experienced divorce and all of the good, bad & ugly that goes with it. You can now relate much more deeply to a huge group of people that have experienced some suffering and also the wonders of new beginnings. AND, maybe way down the road the joys/wonder/challenges of having a blended family. My prayers are with you and your family!
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You and the kids are in my prayers this holiday season. I know that you are going thru a difficult time at the moment as are several of my other online friends in your same situation. I hope thru it all even though this must be dificault for you that you find peace.
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Keeping you and your family in my prayers. Hope you have a wonderful Christmas.
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You are going to be just fine! But, you already know that! You put so, so much good into this world that it can do nothing but come back to you! Sending you positive energy and LIGHT!
All the best to you and your babies as you move forward!
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Ali, there's nothing I can say that hasn't already been expressed beautifully by so many other women here. But please know that you're in my thoughts during this time. I'm confident you will pull through successfully with your positive energy & zest for life, as we all witness through your stories, words, & photos. I hope the new year brings you new reasons to love & laugh and experiences to cherish. Sending love and hugs across the miles to you and the kids.
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I wish you all the best during this time of change and renewal. My thoughts and prayers are with all of you. Many blessings to you and yours.Happy holidays!
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Drawn back again to say I lit a candle for you today, wishing you joy and light and hope always.
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I'm so sorry to hear this, but as many others have commented, your willingness to share the good and the not so good with us is a great privilege. Your dignity and grace are evident through your blog, and I will be praying for you all as this new chapter in your lives begins. I like your joy quotation, here's another I also like: "The secret of health for both mind and body is not to mourn for the past, worry about the future, or anticipate troubles, but to live in the present moment wisely and earnestly."
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I have sensed that something has been going on and have been thinking and praying for you for some time. I will continue to keep you and the kids in my prayers. You are a very strong person and I am sure you will come out an even stronger person in the end. God bless you!!!!
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I remember the post where you said things between you and Chris were not good. I have been praying for you ever since. I will continue to do so. I pray you feel God's love for you in a special way this Christmas season.
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Peace, strength and compassion to you and Chris as your family moves forward.
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I'm so sorry, Ali. I hope you and the kids are OK through this transition. It's never easy...
Hugs and prayers for you and your family.
lise
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Thank you for your honesty and for trusting us with something hard. I and so many that have commented here today admire your person as much as your artistry. You have strength beyond your knowing and a community around you that cares deeply about you and your family. We hold you all close in thoughts, prayers, and love.
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Your daily posts are an inspiration for my in-box (which is why I receive them at WORK!!).
I am doing the best I have ever done with keeping up. My motto has been keep it simple, and tell the story. The best part is the page layouts that you made, which have kept me on track. It has been challenging (I work about 60 hours/week), but rewarding. Thanks for the reminder about the little pocket page protectors, I have neglected those in the last few days.
Good luck with your schedule next week!
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love, and peace, and caring to all of you. may you feel surrounded with support and encouragement as these new changes unfold.
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I wish you and your family the best as you move forward with your lives.
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You have been in my prayers for awhile now and I'll keep you and your family there during this closing of a chapter. I hope that you find a little peace and joy in the season and that life is kind to you, Simon and Anna. I pray that the new chapter is started with as smooth a transition as possible and that you can see that life will hold brighter and lovelier days for you all in the future. Hugs from a stranger who's been there and done that...
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