The Evolution Of My Story

Ever since your last post on this subject I've been thinking about you & your journey. I am so impressed with your strength and today your tactfulness & class as you share this personal struggle in a public light. I'm sure that it is not easy.

This week when you announced the opening of your One Little Word class for 2012, I went back to your post from January in which you listed the words submitted by your readers. I scanned through the list and knew I'd found mine when it struck my heart. Embrace . . . embrace change, embrace new experiences, and most especially embrace family -- keep them close that we may grow stronger together, be the rock for my children as their world changes (we are moving after 12 yrs in OR), and physically embrace them in my arms as much as I can.

I'm sure that Simon and Anna have no shortage of love and embraces in their lives. You have great family support around you . . . such wonderful & present grandparents.

Much love as you move forward and find a new normal for your family. And thank you for inspiring me everyday!

I have a friends and family going through this too, and some are not trying to have a positive relationship - so sad. So I commend your courage, your love in moving forward as positively as possible. Wishing you grace and peace.

Dear Ali, You show such grace in your telling of this time in your life. I feel like you are a sister or an old friend after all these years. You seem to be handling this change well, and I wish you and the kids the best in the next chapter of your lives. I have faith that you three will come through stronger. I have read through many of the comments left here so far and you have a very large and supportive family here. Best wishes.

You are in my thoughts and prayers. I wish you and your family only the best. May God give you the strength you need. Take care of yourself and know that you are loved.

I'm so sorry. Your post made me tear up.
I hate that anyone has to go through hard things.

:(

I am so sorry to hear this. I hope you and your family have calm and peace as you move forward. Thank you for the courage to share.

Dear Ali,

I am so sorry to hear this news. Please know that you are very much appreciated for your art and your craft. I hope you and your family can move forward together in as much peace and harmony in such a difficult situation.

Ali, I read your blog everyday and you have such a wonderful approach to life that I didn't even notice. I am really sorry for you and your family, but I know that you have such incredible strength to keep moving forward. Thinking of you.

I'm more of a lurker on your blog. I suspected what was going on behind the scenes (sometimes, what isn't said or shown speaks volumes), but didn't have the temerity to ask. I'm so sorry this is happening to your family and to you. Jese, Gaby, and others who've commented before me have already said it better than I could. Peace for you during the holidays, and I also send virtual hugs.

Have been thinking of you lately and looming closely hoping something different was happening. Am very sorry to hear the news but will continue to keep you in prayers and thoughts.

Your kids are lucky to have you two as parents. Sending you thoughts of peace and love.

I'm so sorry Ali... I keep typing something then erasing it... so I will just say: you are loved. you are an incredible mother and you are such a brave, strong woman. Thank you for sharing your light. xoxo

Hey beautiful, brave lady- reading this sad news makes my heart heavy, but I have no doubt you'll come through it all with the grace and strength that you so uniquely possess, and that you've inspired so many with throughout the years. Many positive thoughts and prayers coming your way during this most difficult time- I am praying for you that it will be a smooth and gentle journey into happier times. xoxox

You are such an incredibly strong and brave woman. As a child of divorce I know the pain and struggles your family is facing but I also know that you will get through it a stronger person. And I know that you will get your children, Simon & Anna through this season with grace and truth. Prayers to you and your family.

Sending you all my love and peace during this time and holiday season. You are truly a great woman, one of the best, and one of the finest ever to grace the beast of a car all those years ago. Hugs!

I have followed you since you were just posting at 2 Peas and have always appreciated your ability to tell your story of life. For all of us, life is a journey and it is complicated. This is another piece in the journey of a very rich life. And your ablility to show your truth and be candid is something I have always appreciated about you. May you have the peace and strength you need to move through this time. And know that this is a piece of your story that will make you stronger in the end.

Thank you for being generous enough to live your life in full view. You are brave and courageous.

I hope that you will find this an inspiring quote from one of my favorite brave and courageous women: “You have to accept whatever comes, and the only important thing is that you meet it with the best you have to give.”
― Eleanor Roosevelt

Ali,
You are an inspiration to many. My heart aches for you and your family in this time. Please know that I and so many others have been lifting you up in prayer since you first mentioned the need. May you feel surrounded by the Peace that passes all understanding this Christmas and beyond.

Sending you love, hugs and courage for your life going forward :) And there will be one heck of a life to be lived :) You and Chris have produced 2 very beautiful children and it was definitely worth it. All the very best, Ali :)

I have a great respect for the poise and dignity you are choosing as you face this transition. I'm sending my prayers your way for you and your darling children.