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
Oh Ali I'm so very sorry to hear about this. Thank you so much for sharing your heart and your life with us. I'm praying for you and the kids always. Remember always that God loves you and is there for you. My word is HOPE for 2012 and that is because there is always always hope in the Lord!!!!
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I am so very, very sorry. It's not easy. Thinking of you and your family....you all will be in my prayers during this time.
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Surround yourself with the people you love and take it all one day at a time. Big hugs!
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Ali - I know this wouldnt have been an easy post to write but Im glad you did - it wasnt nice seeing people post in other places with their opinions on what was happening when its none of their business. Ill be thinking of you, Simon and Anna and sending you my best wishes.
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Ali - you are so very brave and I am in awe of the grace you've shown as you walk this new path. You are loved and admired and are a fantastic example for Simon and Anna. I hope you feel the love and support that is coming your way. xoxo
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Ali,
Although I'm on the other side of the Atlantic ocean... in Portugal, I visit your blog everyday and love it! You are a well structured woman and that will help you during this change in your life. My daughter was 6 when we have to face this challenge too, it was not easy but with love and care... the sky is the limit. Three years ago I found love again and now I have a wonderful husband and a beautiful 18 years old grown woman! I wish you all the best and I will continue to follow your work and your successful life story! "CHANGE" may be a good OLW for 2012.... Have a peaceful and loving Christmas!
Isabel
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Praying for all of you
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Ali, you were so brave to share this. You have touched so many lives and inspired so many people to share their stories. I wish you and your family comfort and peace.
-M
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Ali, you write with such poise and dignity. And even as I read your heartbreaking words I felt you projected a sense of peace. I hope that you and your family can feel that even at this time in your journey.
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Sending positive thoughts your way Ali. I am recently divorced and I know how hard it can be. Even though your relationship with Chris is over, its wonderful that he is still a part of your children's lives and wants to continue that relationship.
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I am so sorry..I have never commented on here before, but please know that I am lifting you up in prayer..
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Ali, I have been wondering about your situation and sending you thoughts of peace and tranquility. You had not said so explicitly, but I surmised that something of the sort was happening. Thank you for your openness and authenticity. In these hard times your many gifts and blessings will carry you through. You do an amazing job of focusing on the positive, of celebrating the everyday happy things. Know that as a teacher and a leader in this community you are loved greatly because of how freely you share of yourself. You have an amazing spirit of generosity, and all that you give will return to you manifold.
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Ali,
I have been following you for more than six years, have taken classes from you in California and two in Eugene and its because of you that I keep recording the stories of my life. My boyfriends laughs at me that I talk about you like you were my close friend. His big joke is what would Ali do! You are such a great person, mom and role model! You are the kind of mom that I will use as a model when I have kids!
Thanks for the Lemon Drop recipe I can't wait to try it out!
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I've been reading your blog for years and though I don't know you personally, it feels as though I do. Thank you for sharing this with all of us--though I am sorry it is such sad news. I wish you and your family a wonderful holiday and I will keep you in my thoughts and prayers. You are showing tremendous grace. Wishing you continued strength and sending you a hug...
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Thank you for sharing this part of your story. I know this is a difficult time because my husband and I have also decided to get a divorce, and for the same reason you stated. The good news is that it gets easier each day. The sun will still come up, the kids will still love you, and you have a chance to begin a new chapter in your life. I wish you and your family the best.
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I don't usually comment on blogs, but I want to wish you luck and love during this challenging time.
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I can tell you that it is absolutely possible to maintain a positive relationship with the father of your children. It isn't easy, but if both want it and maintain positive thoughts in your mind and actions both with each other and in front of your children - it will work! I have been working very hard at this over the last 8 years and I can feel very proud and confident to say that my DD11 has never heard either her father or I say anything negative about the other. This puts a smile on my face to know that I am providing the best, positive environment for her personal growth and I am SURE you will also soon feel that wonderful feeling.
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I'm right there with you... All of this can be so hard and so magnified during the holidays.
I am wishing for you lots of peace, strength and most of all a quick and painless resolution.
Here's to new chapters in life being better.
Hugs to you.
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I am grateful for your courage and grace in sharing this. My husband moved out a few months ago and it has been such a burden to my heart to think, "how will I scrapbook this time in our lives?" Thank you for reminding me that there is joy even in times of sorrow. You and your family are in my prayers!
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keeping you all in my prayers. so impressed with how you handle things - even this - with grace and dignity. much love to you as you move into this new season of life.
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