What Is Real Right Now
Tags:
WHAT'S REAL RIGHT NOW Simon began the 4th grade last week. The start of school has traditionally been a challenge for him as he navigates a new classroom, new teachers, new structures and a return to old routines here at home but so far he's been doing great. Definitely a bit sleepy this morning as we all adjust to waking up earlier.
WHAT'S REAL RIGHT NOW is that Simon is doing just awesome: riding his bike, reaching out to other kids, being more comfortable in new situations, reading books with joy and excitement. It's so amazing how much he loves to read if it's something he's really interested in - which really is not all that amazing when I remember that my favorite things to read are things I'm really into and excited about. We just need to find more of things for him. A couple Tuesdays ago he read a Shrek book to me for 2 hours while I was working.
WHAT'S REAL RIGHT NOW is that fall is on it's way. I could feel it last night coming in through the half-open windows. I saw it yesterday in a few leaves that are beginning to change colors and drop to the street. I saw it again early this morning when waking to complete darkness.
WHAT'S REAL RIGHT NOW is that Chris and I are having a challenging time. There are many things we are great at together and yet many areas in which we struggle to connect. I want you to know that life is real here - just as it is in your home and your life - and there's good and bad and easy days and hard ones and this happens to be a time in my life that is really hard. I'd totally take your prayers, your positive energy, your wishes of strength and peace, and your compassion. Things are changing here and I'm hoping to face this next chapter of my story with grace and an open heart.
WHAT'S REAL RIGHT NOW is that Anna is two. She's more two than I think Simon ever was - she's got opinions and the language skills to back them up. She's also much more of a boundary tester than Simon. She loves to jump on the couch and asks "Why Mom?" as a response to just about everything. She started a daily Montessori preschool last week and seems to be adjusting just fine. Chris and I dropped her off this morning and she was so happy to show him her school and have him meet her teacher and see her classroom. She's really pretty darn amazing and I'm so happy she's a part of my life.
WHAT'S REAL RIGHT NOW is that I finished both The Help and Little Bee last month. Loved them both. I asked for suggestions via Facebook and Twitter last week and started Cutting For Stone last night. Hoping to go see The Help this weekend.
WHAT'S REAL RIGHT NOW is that this post from my friend Jen Lemen is super inspiring: How To Be Dangerous.
WHAT'S REAL RIGHT NOW are these words: This is the beginning of a new day. You have been given this day to use as you will. You can waste it or use it for good. What you do today is important because you are exchanging a day of your life for it. When tomorrow comes, this day will be gone forever; in its place is something that you have left behind...let it be something good. Author Unknown.
Comments
Sign in or sign up to comment.
376 comments
Hugs to one of my favorite people in the whole world. Not just because you inspire me all.the.time but because you work so hard at the authenticity that can be so challenging to pull off these days. I can tell you that your addition to my prayers for the marriages in my life will not be the first and I will gladly add you and Chris. Marriage is challenging and you will have my prayers. Sending lots of positive energy and know that you will work out what is best for all of you.
Replies
Sign in or sign up to reply.
I read your blog daily and appreciate your openness. I am keeping you, Chris, and your children in my prayers. I pray you both will be able to be open and keep your pride in check. I think this is difficult for all of us adults.
Replies
Sign in or sign up to reply.
Dearest Ali,
Thanks for a honest and heartfelt post today. I think we tend to forget that those we admire for their works and talents live lives just like us. It's refreshing to know that we "all" struggle in this life at times. Sending many good thoughts your way and pray that your little family will work this out. This too shall pass....
Replies
Sign in or sign up to reply.
sending lots of prayers and good thoughts your way Ali. Marriage is hard...we've been through many difficult periods over the years. I wish there was a magic wand that could make everything better...
Replies
Sign in or sign up to reply.
ali, your transparency will not only encourage you, but it will be a blessing to so many people. it's rare to find such honesty-- sending you and chris love and prayers. Praying that God will lead you through this challenging time and you will come out stronger on the other end. xoxo
Replies
Sign in or sign up to reply.
My heart sank as I read about you and Chris. Sending lots of strength and positive thoughts. You and your honesty are amazing! ((hugs))
Replies
Sign in or sign up to reply.
Ali,
You must be so very proud of Simon and his transition to 4th grade. Brings a huge smile to my face, can't imagine how it makes your heart pound with pride!!!!!!!! Praying for peace, of heart and mind, and courage for your family to traverse this present challenge. Thanks for the reminder today, that we all make this journey together: our story cannot be written without community. Blessings.
Replies
Sign in or sign up to reply.
Hoping the positive thoughts and prayers I'm sending your way help you as much as your daily inspiration helps me in my day to day life! Hang in there.
Replies
Sign in or sign up to reply.
You and Chris are God's gift to each other. May He surround you with His love and peace as you work through the challenges of your relationship.
Replies
Sign in or sign up to reply.
GOod thoughts. GOod Karma. That is all.
Replies
Sign in or sign up to reply.
Sending you lots of love and prayers today Ali!! I know you will come through this as you are a fighter! xoxoxoxoxo
Replies
Sign in or sign up to reply.
Ali, praying for you & keeping you and your family in my thoughts......
Replies
Sign in or sign up to reply.
I wonder if Simon has read A Wrinkle in Time, which I recall being read to me by my 5th grade teacher, so I think 9-10 would be a good age for a first reading. I'm sending up prayers that God will send you and Chris whatever you most need at this challenging time. Let us (your readers, former/current students, cyber-pals) know if there's anything we can do to help from afar.
Replies
Sign in or sign up to reply.
Adding another kid to the mix is HARD! Parenthood in general is HARD - as if being a wife weren't difficult enough. I know a little about that - our second son is almost 18 months old and my husband and I have been struggling with our "connection" for some time now. It is so hard to find more energy to devote to that part of your life when there are so many other things that demand little pieces of you throughout the day. We are still trying to figure it out. Hang in there. Keep talking. Keep trying.
I loved the quote at the end of your post. Thanks for sharing. Whatever happens - IT WILL BE OK.
Replies
Sign in or sign up to reply.
Have you tried the Geronimo Stilton books with Simon? I think they'd be right up his alley - great stories, wonderful illustrations and an amazing use of fonts that you will appreciate.
Replies
Sign in or sign up to reply.
Dear Ali - just wanted to let you know that I love you and think about you and that I'll pray for you. We've never met, but through your wonderful blog I feel that you are part of my life. It was only yesterday when I told a friend about you and how great you are and all that you do. So thank you for being such an inspiration and positive and creative person. I hope the little support we as readers can give you here gives you strength and courage and hope. May God bless you and your family!
Replies
Sign in or sign up to reply.
Sending all the good thoughts and vibes you asked for and a prayer that you didn't, that however the situation shakes out will bring you peace and be what's best for all of you. Thanks for sharing yourself with us.
Replies
Sign in or sign up to reply.
Thank you for being so open and honest! I am sending lots of positive energy and prayers your way! I wish you nothing but the best!
Replies
Sign in or sign up to reply.
Hugs, thoughts, prayers to you definitely. I've read your blog for years and watched you conquer many obstacles with honesty and love. Hang in there - you have lots of support and love from your family - it's obvious from your stories and photos. Hugs - Amanda
Replies
Sign in or sign up to reply.
I wish I could give right back to you all the joy and inspiration you have brought to my life. Your honesty and creativity are your greatest strengths. You are amazing!
Replies
Sign in or sign up to reply.