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
Ali- I'm so sorry. You are such a grace filled,classy woman. I'm proud of you. Wishing you grace and an open heart in the next stage of yout life.
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that quote is wonderful.
I admire you so much for choosing to share.
I wish you so much peace and strength.
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If I know anyone who can handle a situation like this with grace and dignity, it's you Ali. Thinking of you. xox
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I've long admired you as an artist/story teller/scrapbooker. But today I admire you for your grace and beauty during a difficult time. Your transparency and authenticity is the reason I've followed you for so many years. I find your story so inspirational.
As a child of divorced parents, I can assure you that I've never lacked for love or family. Families do come in all shapes and sizes. Anna and Simon are lucky to have you. There is pain. Their is sadness, but there is love, and hope as well.
Sending prayers to all 4 of you as you go make your way through this new story.
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This is exactly the reason why I am here whenever I can find a few minutes.
Dear Ali, sending you and your loved ones christmas peace and whishing you all the strength you need for the next weeks.
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You are so courageous... My heart is heavy for you. Hugs.
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Inspire, that is what you do for all who's lives you touch! Keeping it real is a gift of bravery and truth which helps all of us face the realness in our lives and it helps us to keep moving forward, to keep creating through peaceful times and through difficult times.
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thank you for sharing your story with us. we always see the great that is out there. we rarely see the struggles, the pain. i pray that this is a smooth process for you. divorce is not a great road but it is a road that will make you stronger. god bless.
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I experienced this a few years ago myself. I wish the best for your family as you deal with this.
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It's ok to be sad, it not what you might have wishes for but you move through this phase of your life with the help of your supportive friends and family and they will help you all through these difficult days, weeks and months ahead. I can imagine your one little word for 2012 might reflect this change?
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You've been in my thoughts and prayers for several weeks now and I sensed that changes were happening. I think one of the reasons you are so popular (for lack of a better word) is that you are real...and life is sad and messy and wonderful. Thank you for being vulnerable and being willing to share this with us. I have found that out of the most difficult challenges come wonderful blessings and joy, so I'm praying that for you and your family. Sending you hugs and good wishes this holiday season. Kathryn
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I'm saddened to hear this. You, Chris and your children are in my prayers as you begin a new chapter in all your lives. I know you to be an extraordinary woman and feel confident that you will go forward in this with grace, sensitivity and strength. {{{HUGS}}}
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Wishing you and yours all the best on your journey, Ali. May your twinkle shine brightly.
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Wishing you all the best for this transition ... prayers and hugs to you all.
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I'm so sorry you're going through something so difficult. I'll keep your family in my thoughts!
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Ali I am truly sad to hear about this, but you are a WONDERFUL mother,sister, daughter and friend. Many happy thoughts and prayers for each day.
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Ali - you are a wonderful person. Thank you for sharing so much of yourself and your family on this blog. You have lots of love and support from many people who have never met you- but we feel like we know you and we are your friends. I wish you only lots of happiness as you move forward with your life. (HUGS)
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Ali~
My heart hurts for you. I will keep you all in my prayers. Next time you are in Portland, let me know so we can get coffee and I can give you a big hug. (I find that hugs may not fix everything, but they certainly help).
Kelly
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Ali, I'm so sorry to hear this is the way it all sorted out. I'd hoped that maybe this season would pass and things would get back on track but it is not meant to be this time. It has been wonderful to see your parents in your projects. I know this must be a huge help and support to you and I hope they and all that know you and love you and your family are able to bring comfort to you during the difficult days. I know you and Chris will do what it takes to take care of the kids, you always do. You amaze me with the beautiful documentation of these days when I know it might not always be easy. You are amazing! Hugs and know that you are so admired and appreciated.
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You have great courage Ali, hugs to you and your family through this. Even apart I know you & Chris will continue to be wonderful parents together for Simon and Anna.
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Ali - you are handling this with such class and grace. I am sending kind thoughts and prayers your way.
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