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…
Garden, Home and Party says
Jenna,
Best to you on your journey. I admire your courage to take to a new country. I enjoy your writing and of course, your DIY but I know I’ll have fun visiting Thailand as an armchair traveler as you share with us.
xo,
Karen
Karen says
I am so sorry to hear about you and your husband. Be safe and careful.
Rose says
Jenna,
It’s amazing how much I feel like I know you from years of following your blog. My heart broke as I read this post. And yet you are so brave! All the best for your travels – I look forward to reading about them!
Kristin says
You’re so brave! It’s funny how you’re bravery has helped me look at a challenge I’ve been dealing with in a new way. I look forward to following your journey. Be careful out there, carry mace ;), and spread those wings. You’ll be in my thoughts and prayers. *hugs
Mary says
Long time reader and will continue to follow you. I’ve been through it and sort of wondered if this would be your announcement (for no particular reason). I admire you for taking this huge, amazing next step for yourself and wish you the best.
Esther says
Praying for healing during this difficult time.
Katie @ Little House of Four says
Wow, what a surprise! I’m so sorry to hear about you and Brad, but wish you the best of luck on your upcoming adventure. You are incredibly brave and I admire your strength to follow your heart. I’m looking forward to following along and can’t wait to see where life takes you.
Chery says
Wishing you the very best and safe travels. You are a true inspiration in every sense . I’m looking forward to your posts as you move on to the next chapter. Thank you for including us thru your next journey.
Jessica says
Jenna – I applaud you for your bravery making this very difficult decision and as someone who stood in your shoes, not even a couple of short years ago, I promise you will find the life you want to live and the “you” that you want to be. My ex-husband and I were together for 10 years before I decided to divorce at age 29. I had the house, two dogs, he made great money which allowed me to quit my day job and do e-design, we traveled the world… But I wasn’t happy. I left all that behind (the dogs came with me :)) and I embarked on a new journey to the unknown. Fast forward to today, and I’m remarried to the love of my life. I don’t have my dream job and I don’t have all the “stuff” but I am happy! Best wishes to you! xo
Jenn(ifer) says
Dear Jenna!
I also did the separation deal and even though it sound so cliche I promise: it gets easier.
I didn’t do the adventure part and I must say I admire you for it and will love reading about it.
Also: a possibly good read for you
https://www.ablogaboutlove.com/
Greetings from Germany
Jenn(ifer)
Amanda - Life at Cloverhill says
As a long time reader of your blog, I wish you the best on your journey and hope you find that which makes you happy. Peeling back the layers and exposing yourself is raw, but it’s real and can be cathartic. Safe travels friend!
Amy says
Aww, honey. I’m so sorry for your separation. I had a feeling not all was well on the home front. I’m sorry for the loss of your marriage, but am so excited for you on this new journey. What a way to kick off a new way of life! Staying behind in your old home was probably hard as it surrounded you with memories of your marriage. Marriage can be one of life’s greatest blessing or it can bring some of life’s worst heartaches. I pray for blessings for you on this new path your are about to embark upon.
Stephanie says
What an amazing and freeing plan. I hope you find what you’re looking for and wish you the best. 🙂
Maggie says
So saddened by your news.. I can’t hep relate to Liz Gilbert’s life Eat pray love. She followed her heart and is extremely happy now.. Safe travels and please keep your readers posted. Ps a house is a house but your home is where your the happiest. God bless.
Martha Silva says
Jenna,
Search for “precious truth” like its a treasure and you will find it…..
Blessings on you,
Martha Silva