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.

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934 thoughts

  1. Isabel says…
    12/15/2011

    Ali,
    Although I'm on the other side of the Atlantic ocean... in Portugal, I visit your blog everyday and love it! You are a well structured woman and that will help you during this change in your life. My daughter was 6 when we have to face this challenge too, it was not easy but with love and care... the sky is the limit. Three years ago I found love again and now I have a wonderful husband and a beautiful 18 years old grown woman! I wish you all the best and I will continue to follow your work and your successful life story! "CHANGE" may be a good OLW for 2012.... Have a peaceful and loving Christmas!
    Isabel

    Reply 0 Replies
  2. MElissa salomon says…
    12/15/2011

    Praying for all of you

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  3. Molly says…
    12/15/2011

    Ali, you were so brave to share this. You have touched so many lives and inspired so many people to share their stories. I wish you and your family comfort and peace.
    -M

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  4. Megan says…
    12/15/2011

    Ali, you write with such poise and dignity. And even as I read your heartbreaking words I felt you projected a sense of peace. I hope that you and your family can feel that even at this time in your journey.

    Reply 0 Replies
  5. Meghan R says…
    12/15/2011

    Sending positive thoughts your way Ali. I am recently divorced and I know how hard it can be. Even though your relationship with Chris is over, its wonderful that he is still a part of your children's lives and wants to continue that relationship.

    Reply 0 Replies
  6. Cindi says…
    12/15/2011

    I am so sorry..I have never commented on here before, but please know that I am lifting you up in prayer..

    Reply 0 Replies
  7. GabyC says…
    12/15/2011

    Ali, I have been wondering about your situation and sending you thoughts of peace and tranquility. You had not said so explicitly, but I surmised that something of the sort was happening. Thank you for your openness and authenticity. In these hard times your many gifts and blessings will carry you through. You do an amazing job of focusing on the positive, of celebrating the everyday happy things. Know that as a teacher and a leader in this community you are loved greatly because of how freely you share of yourself. You have an amazing spirit of generosity, and all that you give will return to you manifold.

    Reply 0 Replies
  8. Karina K says…
    12/15/2011

    Ali,

    I have been following you for more than six years, have taken classes from you in California and two in Eugene and its because of you that I keep recording the stories of my life. My boyfriends laughs at me that I talk about you like you were my close friend. His big joke is what would Ali do! You are such a great person, mom and role model! You are the kind of mom that I will use as a model when I have kids!

    Thanks for the Lemon Drop recipe I can't wait to try it out!

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  9. Kristen says…
    12/15/2011

    I've been reading your blog for years and though I don't know you personally, it feels as though I do. Thank you for sharing this with all of us--though I am sorry it is such sad news. I wish you and your family a wonderful holiday and I will keep you in my thoughts and prayers. You are showing tremendous grace. Wishing you continued strength and sending you a hug...

    Reply 0 Replies
  10. DanaN says…
    12/15/2011

    Thank you for sharing this part of your story. I know this is a difficult time because my husband and I have also decided to get a divorce, and for the same reason you stated. The good news is that it gets easier each day. The sun will still come up, the kids will still love you, and you have a chance to begin a new chapter in your life. I wish you and your family the best.

    Reply 0 Replies
  11. Janelle says…
    12/15/2011

    I don't usually comment on blogs, but I want to wish you luck and love during this challenging time.

    Reply 0 Replies
  12. Tiffany says…
    12/15/2011

    I can tell you that it is absolutely possible to maintain a positive relationship with the father of your children. It isn't easy, but if both want it and maintain positive thoughts in your mind and actions both with each other and in front of your children - it will work! I have been working very hard at this over the last 8 years and I can feel very proud and confident to say that my DD11 has never heard either her father or I say anything negative about the other. This puts a smile on my face to know that I am providing the best, positive environment for her personal growth and I am SURE you will also soon feel that wonderful feeling.

    Reply 0 Replies
  13. Anilu Magloire says…
    12/15/2011

    I'm right there with you... All of this can be so hard and so magnified during the holidays.
    I am wishing for you lots of peace, strength and most of all a quick and painless resolution.
    Here's to new chapters in life being better.
    Hugs to you.

    Reply 0 Replies
  14. Chrissie says…
    12/15/2011

    I am grateful for your courage and grace in sharing this. My husband moved out a few months ago and it has been such a burden to my heart to think, "how will I scrapbook this time in our lives?" Thank you for reminding me that there is joy even in times of sorrow. You and your family are in my prayers!

    Reply 0 Replies
  15. dawn says…
    12/15/2011

    keeping you all in my prayers. so impressed with how you handle things - even this - with grace and dignity. much love to you as you move into this new season of life.

    Reply 0 Replies
  16. Stephanie Howell says…
    12/15/2011

    Ali- I'm so sorry. You are such a grace filled,classy woman. I'm proud of you. Wishing you grace and an open heart in the next stage of yout life.

    Reply 0 Replies
  17. elise says…
    12/15/2011

    that quote is wonderful.
    I admire you so much for choosing to share.
    I wish you so much peace and strength.

    Reply 0 Replies
  18. Laura says…
    12/15/2011

    If I know anyone who can handle a situation like this with grace and dignity, it's you Ali. Thinking of you. xox

    Reply 0 Replies
  19. Joanna says…
    12/15/2011

    I've long admired you as an artist/story teller/scrapbooker. But today I admire you for your grace and beauty during a difficult time. Your transparency and authenticity is the reason I've followed you for so many years. I find your story so inspirational.

    As a child of divorced parents, I can assure you that I've never lacked for love or family. Families do come in all shapes and sizes. Anna and Simon are lucky to have you. There is pain. Their is sadness, but there is love, and hope as well.

    Sending prayers to all 4 of you as you go make your way through this new story.

    Reply 1 Reply
    1. Susanne Huettner says…
      12/18/2011

      This is exactly the reason why I am here whenever I can find a few minutes.

      Dear Ali, sending you and your loved ones christmas peace and whishing you all the strength you need for the next weeks.

  20. Barbara says…
    12/15/2011

    You are so courageous... My heart is heavy for you. Hugs.

    Reply 0 Replies
  21. Saire says…
    12/15/2011

    Inspire, that is what you do for all who's lives you touch! Keeping it real is a gift of bravery and truth which helps all of us face the realness in our lives and it helps us to keep moving forward, to keep creating through peaceful times and through difficult times.

    Reply 0 Replies
  22. rhonda robson says…
    12/15/2011

    thank you for sharing your story with us. we always see the great that is out there. we rarely see the struggles, the pain. i pray that this is a smooth process for you. divorce is not a great road but it is a road that will make you stronger. god bless.

    Reply 0 Replies
  23. kate says…
    12/15/2011

    I experienced this a few years ago myself. I wish the best for your family as you deal with this.

    Reply 0 Replies
  24. Tami says…
    12/15/2011

    It's ok to be sad, it not what you might have wishes for but you move through this phase of your life with the help of your supportive friends and family and they will help you all through these difficult days, weeks and months ahead. I can imagine your one little word for 2012 might reflect this change?

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  25. Kathryn Benfiet says…
    12/15/2011

    You've been in my thoughts and prayers for several weeks now and I sensed that changes were happening. I think one of the reasons you are so popular (for lack of a better word) is that you are real...and life is sad and messy and wonderful. Thank you for being vulnerable and being willing to share this with us. I have found that out of the most difficult challenges come wonderful blessings and joy, so I'm praying that for you and your family. Sending you hugs and good wishes this holiday season. Kathryn

    Reply 0 Replies

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