Ali had a rough go after her senior year in high school. I am sure it was not easy having two sets of parents trying to raise you with two entirely different upbringings. When Ali's mother got involved with drugs, things fell apart for that side of the family pretty quickly. It continues to be brokenness and heartache. Ali made attempts at college, only to be pulled away by all the drama with her mom and families. She moved away for several years down south in Missouri, got a job, and lived with relatives.
When she moved back to Iowa, in 2016 she eventually met Blake.
When Ali met Blake, she changed. She had someone to focus on other than herself and all the drama her mom put her through. She had a person to build a relationship with and someone to care for that truly cared for her in return. We weren't crazy about the idea of them moving in together. In fact we made it clear that we did not support them in that way. It is so common anymore, for them it just made sense. Ali was closer to work and didnt have to pay for an apartment of her own. Since she was going to live like she was married, we encouraged them to make it right before God and be married. She was ready after the first year of dating. After 2 years together, Blake propsed on Mother's Day. I am thrilled for her. Ali has grown so much over the last two years. She has not only stayed in a relationship, held a job, but also has two of Blake's kids to help raise. She has taken on the role and has been fun seeing the change in her. She will do great as a step-mom and just adores the kids. It will not be easy, as they deal with many problems with the kids' mom. Ali has really experienced a lot of eye opening experiences where she is getting to see first hand what it is like raising step-kids. She tells me all the time,"I understand what you went through." I prayed many years for her, many many prayers that she would meet someone that would love her, treat her right, and care for her. Blake has proved to be a great guy and I look forward to knowing him better and calling him and the kids family.
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