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 a second wife and we are all close and raise my step daughter as a family (you know that saying it takes a village). It can be done successfully. I will continue to keep you and all your family in our prayers.
God Bless,
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Best wishes for all of you. Change is always difficult, but your positive attitude can make all the difference. And it is always okay to be sad and mourn the loss. I wish you peace and joy as you and your family transition through this difficult phase. Best of luck to you Ali. Hugs - Amanda
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Ali, I love you.
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I am so sorry. But having been through a divorce myself (and now a co-leader in a divorce recovery group), I do know that you and the kids will get through this. Life will be different, but it will be good again... you have always been a very inspirational person to me and I have always appreciated your honesty and 'realness' in your classes, blog, and projects. I think all of us who follow your blog think of you as family and we love hearing updates and stories about Simon and Anna. I know you have a strong support group in your family ... and in us your scrapbooking family. My prayers and thoughts go out to you...
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You are so right - there is nothing easy about this. And yet you are walking this path with such courage, grace and strength I admire you so much for that. Sending you lots of love and wishing you peace and joy. You and your sweet family will be in my thoughts and prayers.
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My prayers are with you and yours this holiday season...
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Dear Ali,
As I am thinking about the New Year you entered my mind, and I decided to come visit your blog to see what you may be sharing...
Reading this post truly brought tears to my eyes. I am happily married now, but I so remember this piece of my life many years ago with three young children.
The journey is not always easy, but I can tell you that when you least expect it you realize that you are stronger than you ever imagined, and everything is okay...
My best to you, Ali.
-Jenny
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Many thoughts and prayers for you during this holiday season. I know this must be an extremely difficult time for everyone. From a sharing and scrapbooking perspective, I find you so very courageous. I shared with you recently a personal difficulty and I know I've found it hard some days to find those good stories. I applaud you for wanting to continue that journey in telling your stories, even the hard ones. You are truly an inspiration to so many. I wish you much joy and peace for the future.
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My ex- has always been in my life and in my child's life, Ali. I now consider him to be one of my very best friends; in fact, he's the one I usually bounce things off when I'm conflicted or confused. I spent about a month listening to Don Henley's "Heart of the Matter" after my husband told me he wanted something different. The words and sentiment helped a lot. As long as Simon and Anna know they are loved by BOTH parents, all will be well. All the best to you, Ali. Know that there are many, many people who love you very much.
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Dear Ali,
"Underneath all of the struggle and sorrow, there is a life force that is unstoppable." Jack Kornfield
you and the kids will be ok;I know it
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I am actually in the same boat as you at the moment. Hard, but in my case, the right thing. Being open about it and open-hearted is both weirdly painful and comforting at the same time. YOu strike me as someone who can get through the hard stuff with dignity and grace. And your parents look like a wonderful support system! I am far from mine, and I envy your geographical closeness. sometimes you just want a hug from mom!
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My parents divorced when I was two years old. I am now 41. They remain close friends to this day and are both coming to my house to celebrate Christmas. It can be done.
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As we say in France "BON COURAGE" Ali and I'll think of you and your family in my prayers. Do take care and may you find happiness and peace always and especially during this holiday season. Warm wishes Jackie
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Ali, thank you for sharing. Love and thoughts to you and the children.
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My parents made the difficult choice to divorce when I was about Anna's age. It was probably the BEST thing they could have done for me as a human being, as I got the benefit of two happier parents instead of two unhappy people who were staying together out of some sense of obligation or necessity.
I just wanted to let you know that I am a well-adjusted child of divorce. Some people think that is not possible, but it is... anything is possible.
Wishing you joy and laughter in spite of the challenges this holiday season Ali.
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Dear Ali, all my good thoughts for you and your family. Thank you for being so generous. You inspire us all. God bless you.
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Ali, I just wanted to add my good wishes and support as you walk this path...a path I also walked six years ago. your relationship with Chris is not over, it will just grow into a different stage as you continue to parent your children together. Although I am remarried, we share holidays together so that our young adult children do not have to choose who to spend the day with or divide their time between us. It requires patience and compassion, but it's only one day, or one birthday dinner, etc. and we decided that the kids were more important than any differences we had between us. I think the OLW you seem to have chosen for 2012 is perfect for the situation. Blessings to you and your family this Christmas.
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I know two other friends going through this right now too... such a tough time of the year to start new traditions, beginnings and journeys. You're always welcome to move back to T-town... the smell has gone away some (or I've just adjusted to it after several years) :-) Prayers for you Ali.
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Ali--I don't know you personally but I went through the OLW with you this year so I feel that I at least know you "scrapbooking-ly." I just wanted to send my best wishes to you as you go through this very difficult time in your life.
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I respect and honor your openness...sharing this part of your story cannot be easy. I hope that you are blessed with an abundance of peace this holiday season.You and your family will remain in my thoughts and prayers.
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My wish for you is peace, strength, and hope
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Love the quote Ali. And leave it to you to choose to inspire others in your time of trial. May your family find a solution that works the best for all of you. Our love and support to you and those adorable kids of yours.
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Ali, just wanted to day I know what you are going through, my husband of 10 years and I decided to divorce in August, we have 2 children aged 3 and 9, it is hard, so hard, but we are getting there slowly but surely. Just wanted to say Hi and that you are not alone! Susan (Scotland) x
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I'm so sorry to hear your news. I know from experience that this is a sad, trying time, and I wish you all the very best. Thanks for sharing your story- I'm interested to see what your word will be in this new chapter! Hoping for a peaceful holiday for you all.
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Hugs and prayers to you.
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