The Evolution Of My Story

Ali, praying for you and the kids here at the tip of Africa. I believe that there are still many good things ahead for you - because you are just so amazing. But for this time, gird yourself with strength (Prov. 31) and walk in peace and completeness (Isiah 54:10.) God loves you and He is with you always!

Ali, I'm a new follower but was so excited to find you. I 'inherited' a beautiful new grandchild last year who has PDD (pervasive developmental disorder - in the autism spectrum) when my son married. I have been so excited to watch how you cope with the challenges you face and to see Simon's progress. How my heart breaks for you and your family right now.

I've been where you are and know how hard this Christmas will be. I'm about 25 years down the road now and I want you to know that you can make it! So for what it's worth, here's what I wish I had known then:

1. Don't let the pressures of being a single mom stop you from taking care of yourself. You don't have to be strong all the time.

2. It can be hard, but you can make new traditions that will become just as precious and fun to you and your kids as those that have come to an end.

3. Whatever comes up that you just can't seem to cope with, just remind yourself, this too shall pass!

Hang in there! I'll be praying for your family.

Blessings,
Renea

My thoughts and prayers, Ali. Through the years - through your scrapbook pages, your articles, your classes, and your blog you've shared your life with us. We've gotten to know you and your family and have come to care for you all like friends and neighbors. You and Chris are forever connected to one another because of your past and because of Simon and Anna. I believe you were meant to be together, and now, for whatever reason, you are meant to take a different path. I believe it will lead you where you are meant to be. God bless you.

Two thumbs up to anyone who can write a blog post about this. I check your blog almost everyday and am always amazed at how much creativity you share with the world. Your continued blog posting (or sharing) is greatly appreciated), it wouldn't be the same if you didn't. You always have words of wisdom or insightful links about living life to the full, I guess it's time to revisit those areas. I'd also take a long hot bath and look to the things that do make you happy. Run, run everyday and share it with us (please? It's very inspiring!). Take photos, write your story, for a new one is unfolding right before you. Sending you a Christmas Angel to sit upon your tree.
SARAH

I can't tell u how much u r in
My thoughts and prayers.
I wish that u could feel the support from me
U will survive
U r so strong even though it might not feel like it at the
Moment
Take care
Feel the love of your children and family and friends and let it heal u

Thank you for sharing this and "touching" on difficulties that you were experiencing in PL. Over the past couple of years I have similarly difficult seasons. I love scrapbooking and in many ways it helps me process what ever is going on in my life. However, it was/has been very difficult to scrapbooking during these seasons. I didn't want to act as if these times didn't not exist. However, I didn't want it to be the main focus either. I have appreciated seeing you "touch" on the difficulties you are experiencing so I can better tell my story honestly.

Thank you.

Ali, I'm sorry about this news and wish you and your sweet children only the best. You are a classy woman and even during a difficult situation you shine. I love that you are so joyful no matter what. I can tell by the photos you've shared, that your parents are around a lot and I think that is wonderful. As they say, when a door closes, a window opens. You'll be in my prayers. Hugs.

Grace and peace be with you. Sending prayers your way.

Ali, I know it is not easy and it is not going to get easier but I am sure you can do it and that the bound between you and your kids will grow stronger with the time. Being a divorce child by myself I know that your kids and you can keep having a wonderful story. Sending you the best wishes for the holiday season and for your life. xoxo Iara

You and your family are in my thoughts. Peace with you in this holiday season.

Thinking of you with love in my heart.

Dear Ali
So sorry to hear your news. I wish you peace in the year ahead and as you transition to the next stage of your life I wish you joy and love and an abundance of happiness. You are one of life's inspiring and giving people and may the universe give back to you, Simon and Anna the happiness, joy and love that you give to so many. Be strong - you are an amazing woman.
Warmest wishes
Delia

I don't know you-i have never met you. However you need to know how much I admire your spirit. Blessings.

You have always shared your heart with all of us that we feel that we're friends.
Merry Christmas and know that they will be happy times in abundance again (and soon!)
Enjoy Christmas cause your kiddos have such a HUGE Christmas spirit it reaches to all of us... Love you!

Dear Ali,

I too sensed something was missing (and even mentioned it in one one my recent email to you), but it took me three times to read and fully understand the extent of your message. I guess in my heart I didn't want this to happen, and still can't believe it is happening to you. You have always put your family first, and it's so sad to see that this family is going to change. But then as a lot of people have already written, you will make it. You're a strong woman. But don't forget that even strong women need time to heal. Allow yourself time to be sad, time to cry. Your post really touched in a way I would have never imagined, and even made me think about my own family, my relashionship with my husband and how I should cherish more then ever all those moments that we have together.
Gaele

Like many, many others, I have watched, admired (and envied!) your talents. Always impressive is your appreciation of joy in small, everyday things and your ability to capture and express the feelings that many (me!) share but just can't get down on paper. I am sorry for your heartbreak and am so glad you have a loving family (both biological and those of us in blog/magazine/class/paper/digital scrapbook land) to lean on as your next chapter begins.
Vicki

Ali, I admire you so much for your candor and honesty. You are so well loved by this community of memory-keepers and storytellers that you have done so much to create. I hope that you can take comfort and find strength in our support. Know that we keep you and your children in our hearts. You are one class act, lady!

Ali,
I wish the best for you and your family. I, too am in the process of a divorce after 14 years of marriage and I wish you much peace and strength at this very difficult time. It is of utmost importance that both of you think of Simon and Anna first as they are suffering the changes just as much as you. Please know that you are not alone and that applaud your courage in sharing your new journey with us.

You are brave. Thank you for continuing to share your story with us and showing us to be brave in our own storytelling. Even if it's not always bright and shiny.

God bless you Ali and your two beautiful children. May things be a little easier in 2012 as things move on in all your lives. x