On August 14th, 2015, I published a post that changed the course of this blog and the direction of my life forever.
“In two days I’ll be on a plane to Asia and life will never be the same … I bought a one way ticket to Bangkok to leave this life behind and start over.”
Today’s announcement is strangely similar, yet different in so many ways.
In two days, I’ll be on a plane to South America with a one way ticket to Rio. But this time I’ll have someone by my side… and this trip is not about starting over—it’s about the start of our own great adventure, together.
When I returned home from Asia to sell my house, I never thought I’d stay. I couldn’t wait to get back to a nomadic lifestyle, waking up to new places and people every day. But there was someone I had met along the way who would change those plans.
Lucas was moving to San Francisco to settle down, and as difficult as the decision was to stay with him in California, I knew I’d never be able to walk away from this connection we had.
That connection grew into love, and the beginning of a life together in the city. He found a great career, and I decided to fully pursue real estate with the purchase of my first flip.
But there was something missing. A void had been left in the absence of travel, and it was growing by the day. A piece of me was gone, and nothing could replace it. I couldn’t look at those old photos, relive the memories or even talk about my time abroad without mourning the loss of the path I didn’t take.
Some part of Lucas felt the same, and he was also re-evaluating his career path and life plans.
After many long conversations, we both knew what we needed to do.
It was because of a risk we both took in 2015—him leaving his career to backpack overseas for several months and me walking away from a marriage to do the same—that ended up being the best decision of our lives, and the one that brought us together. There was no hesitation, it was time to make that same decision again.
A couple months ago, Lucas quit his job and a we booked a flight to Rio, where we’ll begin our backpacking trip through South America and Europe for the next seven months.
Just as we each did during our own travels throughout Southeast Asia, we have very little booked or planned because it’s all about the journey, not the destination. We’ll follow our internal compass and let our encounters lead the way.
At the end of this year, we plan to return home for the holidays before packing up and moving to Florida in January. We’ll settle in Tampa/St. Petersburg and start our own real estate company, investing through rehabbing, selling and renting homes. We’ve both put a lot of time and thought into this decision and are prepared to fully commit ourselves to this business.
That leads us to the future of this blog. I can’t make any promises about what to expect over the next several months while we’re traveling, but I can say that I will focus on raising the bar for my videos/vlogging (the next one is coming soon!)
There will still be blog updates, but they may not be as lengthy as they were during my last travels—it’s tough to predict right now. Lucas has also shown interest in contributing with his own posts from time to time, coming from a different perspective of transitioning from the corporate world to self employment, which some of you may be able to relate to.
I know many of you only read this blog for the home décor content, and I understand if you
decide to check out until that resumes next January—I’m expecting it to come back bigger than ever once there are two of us working at it full time! But for those of you who stuck around and enjoyed following my first solo journey, there’s a lot more where that came from. And it’s never going away, as we have both vowed to make travel a priority for the rest of our lives.
There are still many unknowns ahead, but we’ve learned that is where the magic happens… in following your heart and letting the universe guide you to where you’re meant to be. Each day is precious and tomorrow is not guaranteed, so there’s no time to waste.
Life is either a daring adventure or nothing at all—and our adventure begins now.
kristin says
Jenna–Your enthusiasm and desire to truly live–both traditionally and non-traditionally–is inspiring. I mentioned in a note to you prior how my oldest would love to travel. Her sister and her now talk of traveling together. Your writing and approach to life are so moving to those following along. I am going to suggest my girls follow you on this journey as well. Best to you both and wishing you happy and safe travels.
Also, I reconnected with my high school pen pal from Rio about two years ago. I understand your travels are not intentional, however, if you would like any information regarding Rio and surrounding areas I am sure he would love to speak with you. He is an amazing man with a heart of gold and although a busy working man he loves life. You can check out his instagram @juliomfilho He speaks English as well as his native Portuguese.. 🙂 If you are interested let me know and I can give him a heads up.
jennasuedesign says
I really appreciate the kind words, Kristin! That’s so awesome that you were able to reconnect with your pen pal. And thank you for the offer, we will definitely check him out on instagram 🙂
Francis says
I’ve been following you since your Florida home and I am a huge fan of your work! When you went to Asia you took your blog to another level and I will look forward to your post and follow your journey, now I can’t wait to see what your next adventure has in store! Safe Travels!
lilly says
follow your dreams and be safe…whatever your path draws you to. wish you not only the best, but peace, strength and adventure and growth.
lilly
ashley@biggerthanthethreeofus says
I’m so excited to follow along on both!! Love that you guys are living the dream.
Cristina says
I truly think that this is kind of awesome! I’m really excited for you guys! Not only for what you’re doing the next few months but also what you plan to do after you return home.
It’s funny – originally I kept up with your blog for the home decor posts, but when you left for your first set of travels I felt like I was more invested because I wanted to know that you were okay. And then oddly enough I kinda checked out with the Cottage Flip, but now that you’re starting new things I’m excited again. So I think I might be the opposite of what you expected with your readers, haha!
I wish you and Lucas all the best and safe travels. <3
jennasuedesign says
Thank you Cristina, that really means a lot! So glad to have your support <3
Becky says
I can’t wait to see what you have in store for us!
I love your blog – both the decor and the travel. And LOVE the travel photos.
Can’t wait to read about all of the new adventures!
– Becky
Jenny says
So exciting! Wishing you an amazing trip, can’t wait to hear about your journey.
Stacy says
I seriously admire you’re commitment to following your dreams and making them into a reality. So few of us get the opportunity or are in a position to do this. Enjoy every minute and I’ll definitely be staying along for the ride!
jennasuedesign says
Thank you Stacy, glad to have you on board!
Crystal says
Yay for you, boo for us who really love home decor/remodel/DIY bloggers. All the good blogs are gone or they barely blog anymore. Seems to be the new trend.
Have fun, you only live once and if now is the time that is right for you, enjoy!
Marie says
Hi Jenna!
Exciting news!
I live in the west part of France so if your journey in Europe takes you here I’ll be more than happy to host and meet you both!!!
Enjoy every minute of it!
jennasuedesign says
Thank you for the offer Marie! We’ll let you know when we’re in the area — would love to stay in France at some point!
Shauna says
And I’m in the French Alps, so if you wend this way there’s a stopping place here too. Bonne route et bon voyage!
jennasuedesign says
Thank you for the offer Shauna, that sounds amazing! I’ll keep you posted 🙂
Maggie says
Go have the time of your life and experience all this wonderful Earth has to offer! I will be living vicariously through you. Once the travel bug hits it is hard to ignore it. I am happy for you that you’ve met someone that shares your passions. Best of luck, safe travels and god speed. I will continue to follow as always 🙂
jennasuedesign says
Appreciate the support, Maggie!
Emma says
Wow wow wow – you never fail to surprise us! Exciting time… so selfishly I have to ask – are you going to manage to keep your print store open while you travel again? Any bites on the flip?!?!
jennasuedesign says
Hey Emma, the shop will stay open and I’ll outsource printing like I did during my last travels. Nothing in contract yet for the flip but we’re working on a couple changes and hope to have it sold soon!
Emma says
The shop staying open is great news 🙂 Best of luck with everything. You are so brave and inspiring – safe travels!
Jenn(ifer) says
Hi!
If you ever wish to combine travel and decor blogging by visiting someone who does the later: I would be happy to host you in northern Germany!
Greetings from Europe
Jenn(ifer)
jennasuedesign says
Thanks for the offer Jenn! We’re planning to make it to Munich for Oktoberfest, so if you are in the area during that time we’d love to meet up!
Jenn(ifer) says
Unfortunatley I am at the other end of the country, close to Denmark, but since you plan to keep traveling who knows… All the best to you and I look forward to reading about your adventures!
Stacy G says
Have a wonderful time on your travels! I will look forward to following along your adventure.
jennasuedesign says
Thank you Stacy!
Luiza says
I follow your blog since before your asia trip and loved the travel content, even if I was here for the decor stuff. Now you’re going to visit the city that I live! I’m so honored! Maybe we see each other around 🙂
jennasuedesign says
Thank you Luiza! If you have any suggestions on places to go, we’re all ears!
Luiza says
I don’t know your itinerary, but I will assume you guys will go to the conventional tourist spots (copacabana, corcovado, the sugar loaf cable car…). Rio has so many stuff that can be overlooked. If I could recommend only three places you can’t miss, that would be:
1. There’s a beach called “the secret beach” (Praia do Secreto) in Recreio dos Bandeirantes. It’s not actually an beach, but a natural pool after Recreio Beach. Beautiful sunsets and sunrises! Just be careful if the tide is too high.
2. If you guys are into trekking, I would recommend the Petrópolis-Teresópolis crossing. Actually, you could do any activity from the Serra dos Órgãos National Park (PARNASO), but this one is the hardcore one. It’s three days long and beautiful landscape.
3. Petrópolis itself is known as the Imperial City, up the mountains, 1h from Rio. Nice historical vibe, surrounded by the atlantic forest.
As for the warnings:
– Bring bug repellent with you!
– Most people don’t speak english, only portuguese. The subway is the most tourist-friendly public transport in that matter.
– If you’re staying at a hostel place, the staff tends to be very nice and well informed. Ask them anything!
– Don’t go near the favelas. It’s dangerous.
Have a nice trip!
jennasuedesign says
Thank you so much for the advice! We will definitely add Praia do Secreto to the list and look into Petrópolis. Really appreciate the tips!
Anne Green says
It’s a huge adventure and so glad you have begun it. I did find your design blog for diy projects and design inspiration but it is so much more! I am definitely staying tuned in as you explore the world!