The Evolution Of My Story
Tags: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 comments
My heart hurts for you right now but I am so glad that you have such loving and caring parents, family and friends that will help you through this trying time in your life. I'm also glad that Chris is still there for the kids. I'm sure that they will need some time to understand what is happening but your strength and love will help them find the answers they need. Best wishes Ali.
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Ali, I'm so very sorry to hear this news. My heart goes out to all of you. I was at a day spa for a rare treat last week and in the waiting area there was a bowl of affirmations on the table so I drew one. The little card said "Light" and I thought, "Oh, that's Ali's word" and on the back it reads "I have the strength and courage I need to deal with any situation." I have it sitting in front of me right now and if you would like it, I would be happy to pop it into the post for you. Sending you and your family much love.
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Ali-
As someone who has been there, I can assure you that you will come out the other side of this stronger and happier. The light is there, you just need to find peace in your soul so that you can see it. I admire the grace with which you have handled your situation and I hope that you and your children will be able to find joy in your holiday.
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Ali, you are a beautiful soul. You have been in my prayers since you first asked, and you'll remain there as you transition to your new reality. I'm so sorry that you and the kids are going through this. I'm confident that even though the road is bumpy, you'll find strength and authenticity to carry you through the difficult days ahead. Trust Your Journey, friend.
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Been keeping you all in my prayers Ali, you are strong and will carry one.
Wishing you all the peace of the season. (((HUGS)))
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ali...how my heart hurts for you and your family. i will be praying for you and thinking of you. i admire the grace and elegance with which you have treated this change. i pray that you and chris will continue to seek what's best for your family...and that you would know the Peace that passes all understanding today and throughout the coming days.
(The beginning of Isaiah 43 has always been a comfort to me during difficult and trying times in my life. I hope it will be the same to you.)
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You are one of the most amazing & wonderful woman & mothers I have every come across & know that I will be add you to my prayers for strength & comfort through the Holiday season.((HUGS))
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You're a strong woman Ali. I'm sure things will suck sometimes but you can and will make it through this. I'll be praying for your family this season.
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I'm really sorry that you are going through this. I hope that you find some relief through all the support that we, your readers, give you. You definitely did not have to share this, but being real is one of the things that I appreciate the most about you. I look up to your strength and character.
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You are an inspiration to us all. You are still a family, just different now. Good Luck and Happy Holidays.
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Ali,
Thank you for sharing the triumphs and the struggles in your story and your family's story so authentically. My heart aches for all of you. I am praying that you will experience grace, peace, healing and most of all the light you've so eloquently written about this year as you move into this changing season in your life and your family's life, one day at a time.
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Ali, I have been thinking and praying for you for a while and hoping that this was not the outcome. I pray for resolution and peace during this holiday season and for a good transition into your new lifestyle. You are both great parents to great kids and I believe that you will find the balance in your new relationship. It is such an admirable quality of yours to be so honest and transparent with so many of us, but I know that I can say this for many that we will support and encourage you with thoughts and prayers and you have a lot of people who care about you.
Hugs to you, Simon and Anna and Merry Christmas!
Gina
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Ali....I sensed, and asked, and now you have answered. You hold a special place in my heart, as a dear friend I've never met. I think of you daily when I visit and always want the best for my family and friends.
You and Chris are both intelligent, caring, and great parents! and if you remain focused on the good for the kids you will come through this. It will be hard, but you have so much love and support with family and friends...draw on that when you need to...I love you and your family and hope for the best in this new chapter.
May you fill the spirit of Christmas this season.
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Thoughts and prayers for you and yours - I know it must be a difficult time for all of you, but you will conquer this challenge. You always do. :)
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There are so many trite things I can say, but I am sure you have heard them all. I will offer this perspective, as a child of divorce, some of the most important people in my life would not be a part of me if my parents had not split. Hug your kiddos tight and know there are so many people near and far who are cheering you on and praying for you guys.
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As I always, I am inspired by you and your honesty. Thank you for staying genuine during this difficult time and sharing what is obviously a difficult chapter in your life. I will keep you and your family in my thoughts and prayers.
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Life is a continuous series of choices, sometimes we make good choices and sometimes bad, but whatever choice we make we learn from it.
Falling in love means learning to accept the impact of someone else’s choices on your life. The good and the bad. I know as you move forward how you choose to deal with his choice will make you the person you will become. You are a strong women and you have the power to move your life beyond this. Good luck with the next chapter, make it a beautiful one!
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Oh my dear, all I can say is that you are an amazing inspiration, I have counted myself so lucky to have been in your presence (and actually sat next to your beautiful mama in one of your classes!). It is true that life is good, bad, beautiful and challenging, sometimes all in one day. Thank you for sharing and inspiring, and in the wise words (....or not so wise....) of a friend I once worked with, "deeeeep breath, baby steps, and right now, if you're not dying of cancer and living under a bridge, it could be so much worse". Though sometimes it doesn't feel that way.
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Hi Ali,
Thanks for sharing this intimate part of your life with all of us. Remember that so many of your followers have experienced divorce and all of the good, bad & ugly that goes with it. You can now relate much more deeply to a huge group of people that have experienced some suffering and also the wonders of new beginnings. AND, maybe way down the road the joys/wonder/challenges of having a blended family. My prayers are with you and your family!
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You and the kids are in my prayers this holiday season. I know that you are going thru a difficult time at the moment as are several of my other online friends in your same situation. I hope thru it all even though this must be dificault for you that you find peace.
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