The Evolution Of My Story
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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
So sorry that things haven't worked out as planned, but that is life sometimes--right? Thank you for being courageous, authentic and sharing your life and stories with all of us. I wish you the best in all things and peace this holiday season. ((hugs))
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Ali: words don't seem to be enough right now. I wish for peace, love and joy for all of you this holiday season and beyond as each of your family journeys into this next space. Most of all, out of all this sadness, I hope for your joy. Hugs.
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Thank you for being willing to always share your story - and celebrate it all - the good, bad, beautiful and ugly. It inspires me to do the same, as I know it does many, many others as well.
I know that peace can be found in ANY outcome. May you be able to find it is my prayer during this time of your life.
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Stay strong. You will get through this and who knows what wonderful chapter will unfold next!
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Ali, with all your strength, your courage and the power of love so many people feel for you, you will manage that. Time heals everything.
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I love that you have surrounded yourself and the kid's with extended family during this season of transition! Thank you for your openness and for trusting us in the midst of the pain. You are a beautiful woman and I admire you in many ways! I'm praying you experience much joy and peace this Christmas!
Love, Ali
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May you feel the joy and strength and peace that comes in knowing that you have the love and support of a world of us out here praying for and supporting you. You are an inspiration for us all -- and my heartfelt thoughts are with you and your beautiful family now.
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((hugs)) to you and your children.
I'm sorry, i'm not native english-speaking,
so to find words for my 'compassion' is difficult.
May light come back (as it does .. always!)
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Look on the bright side and always find something positive about the changes you will be facing. Things will work out.
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So sorry to have what I wondered about confirmed. My thoughts are with you all as you move forward to this new normal-to-be. I hope you are able to remain positive and to know that your honesty and willingness to share is appreciated.
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Oh Ali. I"m saddened for you and your family. This kind of change is so difficult. You will all be in my prayers. May you find strength when you need it, peace when it is stormy and unexpected joy.
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Ali,
"When God closes a door, somewhere he opens a window." That quote from The Sound of Music is one of my all time favorites and I have leaned on it heavily many times in my life. I pray that it may be a comfort for you during this difficult time. Have a wonderful Christmas with Simon and Anna.
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You have strength, integrity and a wonderful outlook on life. It is a wonderful gift to your children that even during your own hardships, you can focus on their well being. Wishing you and your family all the best!
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I've been following your blog/scrapbook stuff for 9 years. Our boys are both the same age. I would love to give you a hug. I feel like we're friends. I want to tell you, that through a particularly difficult time in my life, I have felt immense comfort in the following verse from the bible. "Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and lean not on your own understanding" [proverbs 3:5] If I've whispered that to myself once, I've whispered it to myself 1,000 times. In times of hardship, perhaps that will give you some comfort too. My prayers are with you and your lovely family.
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I can't believe how sad I feel. It shows me that you can really care for people that you've never met! All the best to you Ali as you and the kids find a new normal. Many people are praying for you. I'll be one of them.
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I wondered about this. You are in my thoughts. Good luck, my dear.
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Ali, I wish you and yours peace, love and joy this festive season and always. I have to admit I shed a few tears for you, it can be a time of such heavy sorrow and that makes me ache for you all. At If you can find grace and surrender out of that then the peace will follow. Can I just say what an eloquent group of posters there are here, so well said ladies, and with such style. The absence of negativity is refreshing and welcome, especially in the festive season. Ali you are a classy lady and it appears you attract the same :)
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You and your family are in my thoughts and prayers. Hugs to you in this difficult time.
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Oh Ali, you are an amazing person and your spirit shines strong. This will be hard, but you obviously have a wonderful support system in your family, friends and all of us followers in the scrapbook community. Many thoughts and prayers are coming your way. Keep your chin up. You have given all of us so much inspiration and kindness, we hope we can be of comfort in return. God bless your little family!
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I'm so sorry Ali. BIG HUGE HUGS. of course I will continue to think about you and hope for nothing but the best for you and your family. Thank you so much for answering all of my silly questions over the last couple months. You truly are wonderful and I hope you remember that always! :)
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