Why I left YouTube - Single Mom + Divorce 

You did not fail. Life is full of complications. You do not owe personal details. To share this is enough. You are still enough. Take all the time you need to heal and just be. ❤️

I was a single mom after a bad divorce, for 14 years. I went back to school and reinvented myself. I made a life for myself and my kids. I believe that you will have similar success and hope all the best for you and your family!

If you show up, we will too. Whenever you're ready. ♥️

I was divorced last spring as well. The single mom life is definitely a struggle. You're strong and amazing and exactly the mother that your babies need❤️

I appreciate how you have managed to be honest and genuine while still protecting everyone around you. You have handled this with such class. Praying God continues to bring peace, healing, and joy for your family.

Oh Abby. I am a long time follower and watching what you've shown of of this journey this year, I have learned so much about you. You are SO strong, you are an incredible mother, you are a light in this world. Your family is in my thoughts and prayers often.

Your strength through all of this amazes me. How you have handled everything has inspired me. I see that you have learned to give yourself grace and I see how you have been as vulnerable as you can and you have handled it like a super star! Even when you think you look a mess, I see your heart and how you do everything with such a grace about you! I love you so much!! I’ve been praying for you!!!!💓

I don’t just come here to watch your hair tutorials. I come here for you and the light that you are. You make me laugh and inspire me to try new things. Whatever you need to make of this space to keep yourself happy, know that I’m not going anywhere. You’ve got a friend in me (cheesy as it sounds lol). I love you and hope that as time goes on you will learn to love and embrace the wonderful woman you have always been and are shaping into now. 🧡

Dearest Abby.. I've watched you grow your channel and family for many years. I bought your book so I could get better at doing my daughter's hair.. I was, and still am throw it up in a messy bun and be done with it. Was never shown how to take care of my thick curly hair and that's what I did to manage. I vowed to myself I would not have my daughter have the same fate as I had. I love doing hair, just not my own and I just LOVED watching your channel and hearing your voice, so calm and soothing. It saddens me that the plans you had envisioned for yourself and your family won't come to fruition. But the new journey you will have will be a path of love and happy memories. And while I can't understand what you're going through, I can only imagine how I'd feel if our shoes were switched. I'm sending you all the love and support I can't possibly send through a comment on YT. Please take all the time you need, and when or if you come back I know I'll be waiting here for that day. And hey... Maybe you can make videos about hair and maybe vlogs of how to adapt to becoming a single parent. I'm sure there are many single parents out there that would love a place to come together. I understand that could and probably is way too personal and too soon.. but maybe one day, I mean no disrespect at all! Again I send love to you and yours.

“And we know that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to his purpose.” Romans 8:28 ♥️🙏🏼

I’ve missed you and actually went searching for you on Instagram the other day. My heart breaks for you and your family. You are so strong and are such a light in this world. I hope things will start to get easier for you and you find a new normal. I’ll continue to support you and your channel, no matter what that looks like. ❤️❤️

Your videos are what started my RU-vid obsession so many years ago, so it’s good to see you back on here. Whenever you are ready to come back completely I’ll happily watch whatever content you want to share! I adore you and your little family!! Love to you all! ❤️

I'm really sorry to learn what you've been going through. The grief is real and valid. I hope you have support for processing it.

Hi Abby, I watched this video a little while ago, and my heart broke for you. I prayed for you and went on about the day. But just now, I was reading my devotion, and you popped right into my head big time. I know you're a woman of God and ALREADY know this, so I was hesitant to think it was meant for you. But I thought, what can it hurt, maybe it is. . . "Next time you sit on a chair without thinking first about whether or not it will support you, that is what trusting God is all about. Being completely convinced in your heart that He is there for you; He “IS” everything you will ever need in life" He loves you and hates this time that is hurting you. But joy is up ahead and He will get you through this. 💗

You're amazing, and beautiful, and so strong! 💖 We'll be patiently waiting and looking forward to seeing you more on here, when you're ready.

My heart goes out to you! I cannot imagine what you all have been through. I think you have done a magnificent job, handling everything with such grace.

Momma, We’re all trying to love ourselves. We all are dealing with different battles in our personal lives. ❤️ We love you so much!! ❤️❤️❤️

🙏 for you all. I went through it 25 years ago. God heals the broken-hearted!

Takes a stronger person to be honest and loyal to yourself and make such a hard decision. You will be better for it and so will your family! I’ll be here whenever your ready. 💕

Aww I'm so sorry sweet Abby. The shakiness in your voice is breaking my heart. 💔 It is hard to love yourself, believe me we have all been there, especially me as of right now. Stay strong beautiful girl and whenever you're ready to come back to youtube we will be here. You are so sweet and caring that's why I love you and your videos. Love you, stay strong! 💕💪🏻

I’m so sorry, Abby. I really feel for you!! I hope you and your kids are ok. Hugs to you, sweetie. :( I really feel for you.

My heart hurt watching this. I’ve followed you for so long and will continue to do so because I love the person you are! You are like sunshine on a rainy day! Big hugs from Seattle and keep being you! You’re amazing!

Gosh this is SO relatable! Sometimes as a single mom I feel so alone. It’s so refreshing seeing there’s more of “us” out there❤️

The strength it takes to post something like this always amazes me. I love the openness you share and the respect you have when you withhold. Stay strong and I love what you share!

We all love and support you, Abby, even from behind a screen. Take all the time you need and know that most, if not all, of us will all be here when you find out where your next calling is. Your family and your happiness is the most important thing, and I hope you find your grief getting easier soon. ❤️

I’ve grown to love you more and more watching your strength through this hard period. I pray that the rain from 2019 becomes a flourishing 2020.

My mom recently went through this exact experience, it was a painful & difficult time learning how to do everything on her own such as being a single mom & being the sole breadwinner of the house i have watched her grow and transform into this new powerful woman & everyday I am more in awe of her strength, beauty, & grace, just as I know your babies feel about you even tho they might be a little young to understand any of it at the end of the day there’s no one we’d rather have to hold us than our mom god never hands us more than we can handle & you have done more than an excellent job handling this difficult time, blessings and prayers for you & your lovely family♥️

I have followed you since the "yellow sandbox days" I found you in a time when I was experiencing a physically ill and demanding pregnancy. I worked in high end cosmetic retail and I was to sick to enjoy my passion. I was homebound from 12 weeks through my whole pregnancy. U gave me an outlet to find a piece of myself.. as my baby was born and late night nurisng and such, the sound of your voice was soothing familiar and normal even for my baby ha! My family has grown with yours and I am greatful for the experience! So glad this video isnt why you are leaving, but why u plan to be back! Another fav u tuber just left and I dont think I could bear another! Thankyou for sharing the joy and the light you have as a God given gift!

I have been watching your channel for a while. You taught not only how to braid my hair, but to love myself. When you stopped filming videos I flipped to IG. You inspire and we love you! Take your time to heal and we'll be here when you're ready to share your beauty and life tips!

Sweet Abby, your story is heartbreaking and it resonates so deeply with me. The part where you spoke about how this isn’t what you thought your life was going to look like, that you had a vision in mind for how you’d raise your kids, etc...that is so huge on my heart in my own life. I’ve been on my own for 3 years now and there are still so many moments where I feel like I’m failing and the grief is so intense that I can barely take care of myself. But these babies need us! That pressure is real and it is no joke, girl. But you’re doing it!! And you know what? Grief is love. You grieve because you love what your life was, you love yourself, you love your kids, and you’re trying to love this new life you’ve been dealt. You are in my prayers always, and I hope you can find some comfort in knowing you are not alone!!! We are here for you and with you. Sending so much love from one broken mama to another. Remember, God’s light shines best through broken jars of clay. You got this, sweet girl. God’s got this.

You are enough! You are the perfect mom for your babies and no apologies are needed! My continued support and prayers go out to you and your family and see nothing but great thing come to this format!!

I’m so sorry Abby about your divorce. It’ll get better I promise. I am curious what happened as y’all always seemed so happy. I guess you never know what goes on in a relationship. Hang in there!! Much love!!!!

You are such a beautiful person, Abby. I was drawn to your videos not only for the great hair tutorials, but also because of the pure light and joy that emanated from you in each and every video. I’m so sorry you’ve had such a rough year, but please know this - your best days aren’t behind you...they’re in front of you, still yet to come! May God richly bless you and strengthen you during this time of transition and growth. Keep on creating and keep on shining brightly. You’ve got this!❤️

Abby, I’m so sorry for everything you’ve been through. My heart breaks to see you hurting. You have to know you are not a failure!!! Although life has shown some different roads that you may not have thought you were going to head down, you got this. You’re going to have good days and bad days and that’s okay! You have so many people in your corner to support you through this. The grace and strength you’ve shown is truly inspirational. God has beautiful plans for you and your family. You’re an amazing mother and have such a beautiful soul! Hugs and prayers to you now and always! 💜

Mama friend, keep showing up and being present, have grace, and allow your self love and hope! I’ve been there and you’re doing great. We will always be there. It’s okay to lay in bed and feel it all, that’s part of healing. Know your loved from thousands.

Abby you are such a wonderful example and person to so many people. Thank you for being you. I am so sorry for everything you are going through but i will always be here. Don't feel pressure to say anything. This was enough so thank you.

You've show such grit and grace this year... continue being kind to yourself and loving your kids... that's all you need to do!

You are so brave! What a inspiration you are! I am praying for you and all involved daily. My daughter went through a difficult divorce a couple of years ago. She was devasted-but I can tell you that she has come out the other side and has grown from it. I wish the same for you❤️

You are one of the first people I actually would enjoy reading about on RU-vid like a decade ago with your twist me pretty hairstyle book. In the past decade so much has changed and I’m sending so much love and good energy your way ❤️

I think you are amazing in so many ways! you shouldn’t have to apologize for taking a step back! you deserve the time and space to heal and wrap your head around your new normal. I’m rooting for you and sending all of my love!

Sending love and hugs from Texas. I still remember how you taught me how to put my book on Amazon like 7 years ago! Longer? Grateful for your positivity. I haven't caught everything you've shared over the years, but I check back in from time to time. My girls loves doing hair, so I'm sending her all of your videos!

Oh, Honey. Take your time. Grieve. Grow. Guide you kids through this. We aren't going anywhere. And let me tell you this, you are not a failure. Not even a little bit. You are a human. You have feelings and hopes and dreams and needs and wants and that's okay. I was not married to my son's dad but our separation was tough. Learning to let go of the idea I had in my head about what our lives were supposed to look like was so hard. I was 23 and alone and scared and angry and sad. It was the literal lowest point in my life. 6 years later, we are doing amazing. His dad and I are best friends. My husband and my ex can laugh and talk and my son has an amazing almost step mom and step sister who were bridesmaids in my wedding. I can promise you that it will be okay. It is going to suck for a while and it is going to hurt, but it will be okay. We love you. We have your back. ❤❤❤

♥️♥️I’ve actually been waiting for you Abby you’re so strong and you’re an incredible mother I actually discovered you through your 10 heatless hairstyles then I bought you twist me pretty braids book and I haven’t stopped watching ♥️♥️♥️♥️

I am so sorry to hear this. I will be praying for you and your family. I cried every time you started crying. This must hurt so much. God bless you. :)

I dont have words. After seeing some of your ig posts about being a single mom, I worked up the courage to tell my own followers that my heart had been broken and then I woke up one day finding myself being a single mom. It’s amazing how many women have reached out saying they went through similar things. But something else that was amazing was that almost every woman who reached out to me with her own story said that they’re better off and so much happier now than they were before. I know that doesn’t make it hurt any less right now, but I hope it can bring you some comfort and hope.

Awe Abby! You are amazing and your kiddos are the luckiest 💗💗💗 I know you guys will do what’s best for your beautiful family. Don’t stress about social media, please! We will all be here for you when you’re ready. **hugs**

You are a very strong woman. Don't ever apologize for all the emotions. I pray for you, I have had a rough patch in my own marriage. But do you. Do what makes you happy! Always still beautiful and can't wait till I see you more.

This breaks my heart.... stay strong, we love you ❤

I’ve so loved watching you over the years! You’re an incredible inspiration not just because of what you’ve been through this past year but for your attitude, light and example!

Grace is an important part of a learning process, dont lose that part. I began to follow you last year on Instagram. I truely think it is inspiring, how much strength you have in yourself! I believe you! Please believe in yourself!

I’m very sorry you’ve been dealing with such a difficult time! Take all the time you need to heal and to find yourself again. We’ll always be here for you whenever you’re ready! Sending lots of hugs and love!

I watched your videos every now and then but this video made me feel very connected. As a daughter of a single mom and divorced parents, sometimes parents just need that space and things work out for the better. I hope you all the best, and hope you learn how to cope with being independent. I want to tell you that yes, your kids are one of your biggest concerns. My advice? Just hug them a little tighter and make sure they never forget you love them. I have faith you'll be okay. Lots of love

You rock abby. Always do what’s best for you. You have all of our support no matter what content you decide to post or when you post it. We love you so much and your strength does not go unnoticed! ♥️

Keeping the details to yourself and not "spilling the tea" out of respect...I really appreciate that, Abby. Thank you♡

Virtual hugs and constant prayer💗🙏🏼. You are strong and God is with you and your family. Always loved your hairstyle videos so easy to follow and seeing the pictures of your kiddos.

You are an amazing strong woman. We all may have found you because of some braids but we stay and follow because you are a light in the world. You have had a rough year but that light is still shining! Sending so many hugs for strength on the hard days.

I don't know if it will help at all, but I was raised by a single mother and lately we've been reflecting on the 'what if'. We both agree that if my father had been in our home I would have turned out very differently: been less strong, independent, and confident. My relationship with my mother is the one relationship I cherish above all else. While it might not have been the vision my mom had for her life and raising her child, we both know that it was the best possible outcome and wouldn't trade the life we had for the world.

Thanks for sharing! I personally have never gone through divorce, but watching this has given me so much empathy for those that do, and for really seeing what it is like for them! Thanks so much for the perspective and for being willing to share your story to help others! You are amazing girl, and I’m sending prayers your way! ❤️

I admire your strength and vulnerability! I can tell it took alot for you to allow yourself to open up to us and let us in on something so personal. It is not necessary for you to give details on your current struggle. I just wish you nothing but the best and whenever you are ready we will be here💙😊

I think you're so strong for sharing this. I know it can't be easy and I hope that this new year brings you healing and the ability to start fresh with reinventing yourself and the way that you live life.

You are amazing! Your strength, grit, and grace inspire me. Keep it up. Stay strong. It’s so good to see and hear from you, but do what you need to do and you will be supported. You are loved!

Hugs Abby! Just all the hugs! Thank you for sharing and being so vulnerable. I think you just did a really hard thing and I think it will get easier from here...as far as posting videos go. You’re a great mom and you’re doing a great job. 🥰

I’m praying for you! Love on your babies and please don’t think of yourself as a failure. Stay strong and believe that one day you will look back and be in a way better place! Much love! :)

The breaking in your voice hurts my heart 💔

I wondered what happened and where you were and now, here you are. I am grateful and honored you chose to share with us. I am so sorry for your pain and grief! I have walked in these shoes and I know how much it hurts. God bless you! You will get through the pain, I promise. So glad to see you again!

I’m so proud that you were able to post this video... you’re definitely loved and so bubbly, even on days you don’t feel it, you still are! Keep your head up, you’re doing amazing!

So many hugs to you and your family. Watching you go through this and watching you grow and become stronger every single day is such an inspiration. You’re doing great, you’re a wonderful mom, and a great co-parent.

Your not alone... went through something similar in 2017 and I did the same, I went off all social media and just hide until I healed. Is not selfish is self preservation. You can do this, you are doing this!!! ❤️

I first subscribed when I got your book for a Christmas. It has made me so much more confident in making and doing different hairstyles. Take as much time as you need, because you are AMAZING! Don't loose your spark ✨❤️❤️

Sending love to you Abby! Thanks for being real and showing up for yourself and sharing how you’ve done that! It’s not about youtube or IG in the end. Even though that helps you make money... we know you’ll do what you need too! Take care of you and those littles. We’ll all be here cheering for you and waiting for your next move whenever YOU are ready!

Your strength and bravery to even share this much is profound. I’m inspired by you daily! Sending you you hugs! ❤️

Gods got you, Abby He’s got you, and your fam. 😊❤️

You did not fail. You just entered a new chapter. Co-parenting is hard but kudos to you for making it work. You are brave, you are strong. Take your time, heal. To quote Frozen... just do the next right thing.

Your channel has inspired me so much, I learned the messy bun technique and many braids thanks to you. I was heartbroken when I read your posts on instagram, I keep you in my prayers, God is good and loves you and your family greatly, I can feel that in my life too, even thought my parents are divorced too, God gave me awesome husband and strengthened my family. Thank you for your honest message

This video gives me hope... Sounds weird but it does. I’m struggling hard and this helped. ❤️ Take Care! You’ve got this!!

Take your time, you have to do what’s best for you! We’ll be here and we support you in whatever you choose to do. I’ve been watching your videos forever and I love you and your energy so much. You’ll figure everything out and you are so much stronger than you know ❤️

You do you girl! RU-vid will still be here when you are ready to come back. And I'm going to stay subscribed and wait for you to begin again. You are in my prayers.

Sending you much love, comfort and prayers. I'll be thinking of you and your beautiful kiddos as you continue on your new path. Thank you for your kindness, love and grace in what is undoubtedly a heartbreaking situation for all involved. 💕

Life is so hard but you are doing so amazing! Keep pushing it will get better! You have come so far already and I know that Heavenly Father is so proud of you. It’s ok to take time to heal and know that you have so many people praying for you and your strong little kiddos and also for their dad and praying that you will find peace through co parenting. You’re not in this alone 💗💗💗

Divorce is really hard (I know personally), but you will get through this tough time & you owe no one anything! God Bless You & your family & many prayers!🙏🏻❤️🙏🏻❤️🙏🏻❤️🙏🏻

I missed you so much Abby! I was wondering why you haven't posted as frequent as you used to but this explains why. Thank you for sharing an extremely vulnerable side of your life. You don't need to explain yourself, we all understand and we love you. New year means new beginnings, take care of yourself, and come back whenever you're ready❤️

"Success is a collection of well curated failures" It can be so hard to find a new chapter, but so rewarding once you do. Sending you all the love!

Love you so much Abby! We missed you so much and will be so happy to have you back on RU-vid! You are amazing and doing amazing!

Hugs and prayer for you and your kids, our kids are the best, what we have xxx

Thank you for your authenticity. Good for you for being so vulnerable. I'll be cheering you on, when you're ready to come back to RU-vid.

Oh Abby, you’re the best. From becoming my hair role model 4yrs ago to becoming my role model as a woman! Stay strong, keep believing in yourself, and spend time on the things that matter. Create the content that makes you feel excited & free. We’re always here!

You are such a fighter Abby!! As a daughter of divorced parents I understand the hurt that can come from all this because my mom and I are so close, but I also know you’re family is going to come out stronger than ever especially with God by your side because it helped me so much! God bless you Abby you’ll be in my prayers ♥️♥️♥️♥️

You're such a strong spirit. I can feel God's love for you. Prayers to you and your family.

You are just amazing! I don’t know what you’ve been through but i have followed you on Instagram and man, you are showing up for your kids! Don’t forget to take care of yourself too ❤️ you’re an inspiration.

You’re so brave and such an inspiration. You are a bright light and I have no doubt you will continue shining. Hugs to you and your family! 🙏🏼❤️

I miss you Abby! Sending you all the Love in my heart. You’ll find your way because you have your family, friends, and God!

Life happen but it only make you better. Just know life's goes on and don't stop looking for the one but keep your guard up

Its ok were all supporting you!

I know at this point words will not help. Words will not heal the pain but do know you are loved and supported. Take as much time as you need. Sending you love from Singapore. ♥️

You are so strong! You taught me how to braid my hair when no one could and you brought me so much joy!! Thank you!! Please know you are loved and supported.

You're right, no need for apologies! Praying for you and your family. Whenever you are ready, we will be waiting❤️

You are an Amazing Woman!! You are strong and gracious and kind and loving. You have the biggest heart- that comes through so much. Thank you for sharing an update and being real and raw. Life is tough but you are tougher!!

Aww Sweet lady!! I'm so sorry!! As a former single mom and mother of four adult daughters my heart is breaking for you right now!! You can feel like you will never be happy again or that you've failed and things can feel so overwhelming but trust me you are not alone!! People are praying and rooting for you and your family and Heavenly Father really is there!! ((Hugs))

I can somewhat understand what you are going through as the oldest child of my mother that has been a single mom for five years now. My dad didn't treat my mom very well and hid a lot of things from her. You are so amazing to be sharing you're life with the world, I can't even imagine how hard this was to share. My mom still crys when she talks about what my dad did. I still see my dad every other weekend, but it's hard not seeing him every day and having an actual relationship with him. I have to help my mom so much by watching my younger siblings while my mom runs errands or goes out, and she reminds me of what a help I am even though I never really realized it. I don't know how you do it with four young kinds under ten. You are so strong, and you definitely don't have to share anything you don't feel comfortable sharing. Just making this video is enough. I started following you cause I loved your content and hair tutorials, but now you have become an inspiration to me and many other women to overcome obstacles that appear in our lives. You're so amazing and thank you for just being you. Lots of love from Florida. 💕💕

I love this. You keep being true to yourself and your children. Grief is big and it's ok to take this one step at a time. Sending all the love.