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.
As one who's "been there", my heart goes out to you. Thank you for your honesty, even when it's difficult. You & your family will be in my prayers.
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Hi Ali,
How are you doing?
Just want you to know how grateful I am for you… thank you for being open and genuine and kind. Thanks for sharing your stories. For OLW! And for replying to my occasional emails, that is so appreciated! As Melissa D. said, you are remarkable. I have learned so much from you… whether it be related to design or to life… choosing joy, being more transparent (it’s not easy for me!) but seeing that you are, I have so much respect for that and know that it is OK to do so.
I will pray for peace and wisdom … and yes, joy too, for you and Simon and Anna, as your life takes this new direction.
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I too sensed something wrong. May God grant you both clear direction and hearts to heal and patience and courage as new days come. Most of all still looking and finding joy in each day.
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Thinking of you Ali.
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Grace and peace to you from God our Father and from the Lord Jesus Christ.
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Nothing but hugs and support - even tho only virtual - coming your way Ali. This is only the start of a new chapter for you; a twist in the plot. Hearts are bound to ache when life shifts in such an unplanned way. May you find strength in yourself, your children, and your family - as you communicate so well in your scrapbooking. Love to you and Simon and Anna.
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Reading your blog brings much understanding and joy. I thank you for being so real.....you are such a lovely and fine woman...take care as you begin a new journey !! Merry Christmas..
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I'm so sorry to hear this, Ali. My heart breaks for you. I now you are a strong, positive woman that will get through this with the support of your family and friends.
May you feel God's peace near you during this difficult time.
God bless you and your family. Merry Christmas!
(((HUGS)))
Sarah
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My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family. Years ago I shared an office with another person and one day she was having a friendly conversation on the phone. I thought it was her best friend. When she closed the conversation, I realized it was her ex-husband. I was very surprised. She said they were friends but just couldn't live together anymore. They maintained their friendship because it was important to give their son the same love and positive attitudes he had before the relationship broke down. I so admire this friend for this ability. I wish the same for you.
I love reading your posts and I look forward to checking out what new pages you have created. You are a very special person and have brought joy to my day when I've had a horrible day. I hope for joy and happiness for you and your family.
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i know that you will be fine, you are a strong woman and mother. a new story is awaiting you Ali, take hold of it. i will pray for you and your family. take comfort in the christmas season and its true meaning.
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Ali, I'm sorry to hear about the news. I will be praying for all four of you as you transition into your new and different lives. Your children will be ok because they have amazing parents and you and Chris will be ok because you are both loving and caring people. I wish you a peaceful Christmas and may your family bring you comfort during these difficult times.
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When I met my husband, he was divorced with a 10 year old son. We maintained a good relationship with his ex-wife and now 17 years later, she is part of all our family events - big and small. She spends all the holidays with us. Blended families are not only possible but definitely worth the effort! Praying for God's grace be with during this time of evolution for your family.
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What ever doesnt kill you makes you stronger.. Strong words but indeed an end of a rel.. Doesnt mean the end all.. Days will pass and the pains n hurts may linger but it will pass.. A lot of new learnings along the way and youll realise .. You got throughi it all.. Draw strength from your children and soon youll be happy again.. God bless you this xmas...
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I have been thinking about your word light. You may be in a dark tunnel right now but there is a light at the end. You will be so ok.... You are OK!
It is so interesting how our words evolve. Someday I will send you a note about my word. Free It turned out to be a hard word with a life long message.
You and your family are in my prayers.
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I come to your blog for inspiration, not just for scrapbooking, but for life as well. Even in one of lifes toughest times, you are an inspiration. Even through your pain and sorrow, you are carrying on with your traditions and telling your story...someday, that will mean more than anything to your children as they look back on this. My heart goes out to you and your family, my prayers are with you.
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Send you hugs and prayers! Change is never easy, especially this type of change. I was widowed 6 1/2 years ago and it was horrible. I survived though and life went on. I'm now remarried with two kids and life is wonderful. You WILL get through this and you WILL survive and you WILL thrive! :)
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What a wonderful example you are setting for your children. They will, no doubt, grow up to be as special as you. I know it is not easy for any of you, but I hope that your future holds more happiness than you could ever imagine.
Like others mentioned, I come to read here almost everyday because you are very inspiring even if I don't "voice" it in the comments. May peace be with you this Christmas and the coming year.
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My thoughts and prayers are with you and your kids. I am in the same situation and there are lots of tears. I make sure I participate in December Daily and WITL because I want my kids to share great memories of their childhood. There is no easy road from where you have come from and to where you are going. My mantra to get through this very difficult time has been to "get through one day at a time". I am glad that you are up to continuing these projects even though some days I'm sure you do not feel up to it so thank you for that. xxxx Regards Kathy, Brisbane, Australia
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You and your family will be in my thoughts and prayers.
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Dear Ali,
So sorry to hear your story. But sometimes it's how life takes a turn on you. I am confident you will make this work. However don't forget to take the time to grief. It's important too.
Thinking of you!
Lots of love from Spain
Ellen
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Ali, I have so much admiration for you, for so many different reasons, but mostly for your determination to choose happiness. Thank-you for sharing your heart with us and for always being your ever graceful self, even in the most difficult of times. I will continue to wish for contentment and joy for you and your family during this season and as new chapters open in 2012.
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Saw this on Pinterest and thought it would apply...
"Every exit is an entrance to somewhere else"
I hope you can find some peace.
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So sorry that things haven't worked out as you would like. You are very brave and honest to share this with us. I have been reading 'Man with a Blue Scarf' by Martin Gayford, on sitting for a portrait by Lucian Freud. This may not sound pertinent, but there is one line that I think can apply to all of us and be timely for you, too. "As with any creative project - writing a book, for example, is the same - success is party a matter of stamina, and also what LF likes to call 'morale': the confidence required to simply keep going." I hope that we can all have that confidence. You are fantastically inspirational in so many ways, Ali. Thank you.
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Very sorry to hear about this Ali. I wish you and your family a beautiful Christmas and a wonderful new year as you embark on this new journey in your lives. God bless.
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I am so sorry to hear this news, Ally. I wish you all the best as you celebrate this Christmas with your family.
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