In two days I’ll be on a plane to Asia and life will never be the same. I’ve been keeping a secret from you guys that I haven’t been able to share until now.
Brad and I have separated. He’s been living in Florida since June and I bought a one way ticket to Bangkok to leave this life behind and start over. It was the hardest decision I’ve ever had to make—one I’ve struggled with for years. But all you saw on this blog was a facade of a seemingly happy, perfect life. And it was, on paper—I had almost everything I’d ever wanted and dreamed about. So why couldn’t I be happy?
I’ve debated how much to open up and share with the world. This is just a DIY blog, everyone only wants to see pretty pictures and tutorials, right? For those of you in that camp, I apologize for the sudden turn of events, and no hard feelings if you want to move on. I have no idea what will become of this blog, because my entire life is up in the air right now. For the very first time I have no plans for the future. I’ll be landing in Bangkok with nothing but a backpack and my camera, no itinerary or familiar faces. Hoping a solo trek across Southeast Asia will allow me to find clarity and discover myself, on my own, without any crutches to fall back on.
A year ago I would have been terrified of the idea. But I’ve been going through a profound metamorphosis for months. The layers of my cocoon have been peeling away and Thailand is the last phase where I can finally break free and spread my wings, seeing the world through completely different eyes. Every fiber of my being is pulling in this direction. I’m not scared at all. This is the new Jenna Sue.
I’ve been journaling and documenting this entire process, feeling compelled to record every thought and emotion. It’s the most defining era in my life and I don’t want to forget a single moment. My goal is to be as raw and honest as possible throughout my backpacking journey while working through this personal transformation and finding real meaning in life. I know there are so many others out there with similar feelings but they’re too afraid/unsure/unaware to voice them… and I truly hope you continue to read this blog as I share more of my story, and find value and inspiration in the path I chose.
You are the designer of your destiny. You are the author. You write the story. The pen is in your hand, and the outcome is whatever you choose.
My next post will be live from Thailand. I hope to have you on board with me and sincerely appreciate every uplifting word and thought sent my way. Here’s to a brave new life…
Kristin says
You go, girl! Best of luck!
Marjorie says
I usually don’t comment on blogs, but I wanted to take a moment to do so on your announcement. Best of luck on your new adventure, I can’t wait to follow along and see where life takes you!
Michelle says
I would say you are absolutely not lost…quite the contrary. You strike me as a strong young woman, who’s fearlessly facing her fears! You will be amazed and humbled by your resiliency and ability to flow with life’s currents.
Be safe, be well, and may your journey be profoundly rewarding!
Angela says
Oh my! I’ve been reading your blog since you were living in FL. Not the news I was expecting! I can’t wait to hear more details! Lots of questions – why Thailand? What about your beautiful house in CA and your cats? You are brave to travel alone in a foreign country! All the best!
TRICIA says
Jenna Sue, I’ve been reading your blog for a few years now. U and ur life have become part of my routine…I’ve always loved seeing your home and watching you transform nothing into something. I hope you find happiness and hope for a better future on your journey in Thailand. Life is too short to not be 100% happy. Best of luck! I will miss you! Be safe! xo
Tracy says
I feel for you, this must be frightening and exhilarating at the same time. Good for you to doing what you know you need to do. I divorced at 27 and it was the absolute, without question, the best decision I could have made. I too headed to Asia, teaching English in Seoul for two years. By then I was dating my college best friend and we enjoyed two years of being together (married 10 years this spring), best experience ever. Thailand is wonderful, spent both winter holidays there while living in Seoul. If you have any questions or would like any practical travel advice, let me know. We traveled within Korea but also China and Thailand. My husband has also lived in Japan and traveled in Indonesia, India, and more so he’s a wealth of info. Best of luck, travel safe, and take care of yourself! -Tracy
Hanna says
Can’t wait to hear about your new adventures, and congratulations on taking these next steps. The first are always the hardest.
Katie says
What an adventure. I look forward to following along. Best of luck! Also headed to Thailand in November so curious to get a sneak peek through your wonderful photography.
RingSparkle says
Wishing you all the best as you begin this new phase in your life. I’m looking to forward to reading about your adventures.
Kim says
We love you, Jenna. This is so sad to hear, but you are still making a difference, even amidst your pain. I think you have drawn so many people not only because of your amazing DIYs, but because of your remarkable spirit– that’s what sets you apart. You are a truly inspirational woman and I wish you the best of luck in your endeavors.
Sabrina says
I follow your blog for quite some time now and haven’t commented yet, but silently always admired your work. Even though your focus here will change inevitably, I am going nowhere, that’s for sure. 😉 You go, girl! I’m rooting for you. All the best for your future! May it contain many happy surprises.
ShellI says
Dear Jenna – wishing you peace and clarification on your journey. I too have a blog only since June and would love to share more heartfelt posts other than just DIY. It is always frightening putting ANYTHING on a blog for people with very different interests to critique… I plan on following you through this journey because you seem to be a multi talented beautiful soul that will only excel further personally and professionally once you discover the peace you are looking for. I’ve just said a prayer for you and your journey in Thailand. May God watch over you all the way. ~Shelli
Bethany says
So brave! I just need an ounce of the courage you have to take some of the steps I know I’ve been needing to take. You’re such an inspiration and I hope you find what you are searching for.
Sarah says
Jenna,
I’m sorry to hear that things in your personal life aren’t working out, but I think your next adventures are a perfect change of scenery and just what you need right now! I had a weird feeling over the last few months that something was going on with the relationship (sorry, sounds weird from a reader I’m sure). But know that there are always brighter things to come! I will stay, read and follow as long as you post. I hope you find your true happiness, or start to better understand what you’re looking for while you’re in Thailand. Keep your chin up, be free and know you have lots of longtime followers in your corner!
Get it girl! <3 Sarah
Kenna says
So sorry to hear about your separation. Best wishes on your journey and hope you find what your soul needs to heal!