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.
Blessings and peace and JOY to you and your family. You bring so much positive energy to other people's lives, let us now share with you.
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We CAN choose to live in joy. That has been my choice for me and my children for the last 18+ months while we go through our new journey. So often I've drawn strength from your authenticity and honesty - I hope moving forward you are able to gain strength and fulfillment from those you choose to share your life moving forward. I can only wish for you and your children all the best life has to offer!
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Ali, My parents are divorced and I know it was always very stressful around the holidays. I am holding you and your family up in my prayers; nothing is too big or complicated for our God. Much love, Katie
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Thank you for sharing the always authentic you. You truly seem to be what you present, and I think all of us love you even more for that. Enjoy your family - in whatever form it takes - it's always the good that you remember more!
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Ali: You are inspiring and strong. Thank you for trusting us with this chapter of your life. I am continually inspired by your poise and strength through everything. A wonderful mother and career-woman that has inspired and taught so many of us. Stay the course and continue being you. May you and your family have a blessed holiday season.
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Ali, I can completely relate. And I am praying for you at this tough time. I think the hardest part is for the kiddos. Hugs and prayers.
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Thank you for sharing so honestly. Hurting for you. ((Hugs))
Catherine
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My prayers are with you. This is a very personal story in which you chose to share. You are very brave and I commend you for that.
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As I was reading I had to look away...and couldn't read on. I am so sorry and sad this is going on in your life. Keep your chin up....and take care of your family.
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Ali I'm so sorry to hear what you and your family are going through. My parents divorced when I was four and as difficult as I'm sure it was for them they worked hard to be amicable for the sake of my older sister and I. I'm happy to say at 30 I now have a wonderful stepfather, stepmother and two half brothers. While some people might look at my parents separation as a loss I look at all the love I have gained. It has strengthened my relationships and made me more aware of the importance of family. The best thing my parents did was they never spoke badly about the other in front of us and we always celebrated birthdays altogether. I know you and Chris and Simon and Anna will be okay. Be strong and hug each other a lot.
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Lifting you and your family up in prayer. You are all stronger than you know.
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Ali, my heart hurts for you, Chris and your kids. But you (and they) are strong. And your choices to handle this with grace and respect and positivity just reflect the goodness that you have in your heart. Peace be with you, and with Chris. I know this isn't an easy road. I'm thinking of all of you.
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Ali,
I wish you continued strength and courage. Thank you for your honesty and sharing such an intimate part of your life. Prayers to you, Simon and Anna.
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Sending you lots and lots and lots of love from Australia. Anita, xoxo
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Ali - I so admire you and wish you much strength and peace. My thoughts and prayers are with you all.
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Please accept this long distance virtual hug from a true stranger. I admire your strength for writing this very meaningful post. Wishing you peace and courage. To you and those fantastic kids of yours.
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I thought maybe this is what was going on when you last posted asking for prayers and happy thoughts. I have thought about you and your family often and have kept you in my prayers. I know you will handle this situation with grace and beauty, as you seem to do with everything. I pray for continued strength for you and your kids, and for Chris, as you all make your way through this.
Hugs and peace to you this Christmas,
Nicole
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Ali-
I have been a fan of yours since the beginning. I can't even remember how many years I have read your blog and loved your pages in Creating Keepsakes. What I find draws me to your blog is the quiet peacefulness that you project into this world. The grace you have. I will be praying for you, the kids and Chris as you travel down this new road. -Star
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I am sad for you. But, what a tower of strength you are. You are keeping up the holiday traditions for your children. You continue to be a loving daughter and sister. You are moving forward with your business and blogging daily. You are open and honest with people you don't even know. You are maintaining and projecting a positive attitude no matter how difficult it may be. As this door closes may 2012 open many new and exciting doors for you and your family. Take care!
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Usually a reader and not a commenter, but wanted to let you know that some extra good thoughts are coming towards you and your family. I wish you peace and strength as you embark on your next chapter.
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Dear Ali, you are such a wonderful person and mom. Your strength in dealing with Simon's issues, your example in honesty onver the years, your strong love for your children and theirs for you, your continued work in the scrapbook world and all that you are shows that you are a remarkable woman. I admire you. You feel like family. My prayers are with you as you and the children go through this time. May God bring special things to you this holiday season and may the coming year be one that is so good you will be amazed. Love you.
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Ali,
You are always honest and transparent, thank you for that. As you and your family transition, I know your children will value your genuine, loving nature.
Peace always!
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Ali,
I just started following your blog a few months ago.I am in awe of your talent,the love for your family and positive attitude are so evident in what you do. My heart hurts to hear your news. May the God of all comfort comfort you daily.My prayers are with you.
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Ali, we are not only wishing you peace this holiday season, but also peace and calm throughout the whole transition into this new chapter of your life. I admire your strength and bravery in sharing these personal details with the whole world!
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I just saw this quote on pinterest...
Every day may not be good,
but there is something good in every day.
So very true....
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