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. Pam says…
    12/15/2011

    I'm saddened to hear this. You, Chris and your children are in my prayers as you begin a new chapter in all your lives. I know you to be an extraordinary woman and feel confident that you will go forward in this with grace, sensitivity and strength. {{{HUGS}}}

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  2. Jean says…
    12/15/2011

    Wishing you and yours all the best on your journey, Ali. May your twinkle shine brightly.

    Reply 0 Replies
  3. Jayne Taylor says…
    12/15/2011

    Wishing you all the best for this transition ... prayers and hugs to you all.

    Reply 0 Replies
  4. Tara says…
    12/15/2011

    I'm so sorry you're going through something so difficult. I'll keep your family in my thoughts!

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  5. rhonda says…
    12/15/2011

    Ali I am truly sad to hear about this, but you are a WONDERFUL mother,sister, daughter and friend. Many happy thoughts and prayers for each day.

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  6. MichelleB says…
    12/15/2011

    Ali - you are a wonderful person. Thank you for sharing so much of yourself and your family on this blog. You have lots of love and support from many people who have never met you- but we feel like we know you and we are your friends. I wish you only lots of happiness as you move forward with your life. (HUGS)

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  7. Kelly McCord says…
    12/15/2011

    Ali~
    My heart hurts for you. I will keep you all in my prayers. Next time you are in Portland, let me know so we can get coffee and I can give you a big hug. (I find that hugs may not fix everything, but they certainly help).

    Kelly

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  8. Peg says…
    12/15/2011

    Ali, I'm so sorry to hear this is the way it all sorted out. I'd hoped that maybe this season would pass and things would get back on track but it is not meant to be this time. It has been wonderful to see your parents in your projects. I know this must be a huge help and support to you and I hope they and all that know you and love you and your family are able to bring comfort to you during the difficult days. I know you and Chris will do what it takes to take care of the kids, you always do. You amaze me with the beautiful documentation of these days when I know it might not always be easy. You are amazing! Hugs and know that you are so admired and appreciated.

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  9. heather Prins says…
    12/15/2011

    You have great courage Ali, hugs to you and your family through this. Even apart I know you & Chris will continue to be wonderful parents together for Simon and Anna.

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  10. Marie says…
    12/15/2011

    Ali - you are handling this with such class and grace. I am sending kind thoughts and prayers your way.

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  11. Courtney says…
    12/15/2011

    Ali,
    I wish you, Chris, Simon, and Anna peace this holiday season and always. Thank you for sharing your evolving journey with us.
    Courtney

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  12. slmnontec says…
    12/15/2011

    Ali, thank you for leading all of us out here who faithfully follow your example. You have been so composed, so brave and once again so authentic. We are here cheering you on. You go girl! Peace and love to you today....

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  13. allyson says…
    12/15/2011

    Ali, Thank you for sharing so much of yourself. You help me to have the courage to share more of my authentic self. Thank you for courage. Praying for strength and peace.

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

    I didn't know about the troubles you were having, but now that I do, I wanted to tell you that I appreciate so much all that you do. Every time I read your blog I wonder how in the world you have time to not only document your family's life, but to help all of us who are trying to do the same. All of the blog posts and photos and links to products are so extremely helpful, and you doing this while going through such a trying time in your life is remarkably kind.
    I hope you fine peace during this Christmas season, and thank you for all you do.

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

    Praying God blesses you with strength and joy as you move forward.

    Reply 0 Replies
  16. Susan says…
    12/15/2011

    Hugs, Ali. Thinking of you.

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

    I have been thinking of you so often since September. I know you will find a way forward. Happy holidays to your family.

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

    As bad as things may seem, there's always someone in a worse situation. My gradeschool chum's younger brother had a stroke last Thursday. He's still heavily sedated & they're not sure yet what the long term effects will be. It's just some perspective. Prayers for you & if you have the inclination--say a prayer for Denny at Henry Ford Hosp in Detroit as well.

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  19. Fran says…
    12/15/2011

    My prayers and loving thoughts are with you during this difficult times. Our Lord will guide you and give you strength to continue on with your life. Chris and you created two beautiful children and they are such huge blessings.

    Reply 0 Replies
  20. rachel anderson says…
    12/15/2011

    sending you peace, Ali. I very much admire you.

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  21. Beck says…
    12/15/2011

    Thank you for your honest sharing Ali. I've been thinking of you for some time and mindful of what may be happening. Know that this community will be loving you and cheering you on from all over the world- I, in Australia are just one!
    We love the way that you share with us and inspire us with your stories and life. Hugs to you and the kids and Chris as you move forward in new ways. Much love, Beck xoxo

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  22. Delanie says…
    12/15/2011

    Classy, as always Ali.

    Best wishes to you and your family moving forward.

    Reply 0 Replies
  23. Roben-Marie says…
    12/15/2011

    You and your family are in my thoughts and prayers at this difficult time. May God bless you all!

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

    Just want to tell you your blog inspires me to tell my 'real life' story for my children and for me. You're a great mom and I appreciate your blog as a small window into your creative life. I am always happy and inspired after leaving this space- thank you!

    Reply 0 Replies
  25. Karalyn says…
    12/15/2011

    So sorry that you are going through this Ali! I wish you continued strength and happiness for you, Simon, and Anna! I hope you can find good during this Holiday season!!

    Reply 0 Replies

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