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…
Astin Hancock says
I just wanted to say ditto to all the previous comments. I’ve been following you for so long that I felt like my own heart got ripped out at the news of your separation, BUT I very much look forward to hearing about your new adventure! I’m super excited for you and I really hope you choose to keep blogging and keep us in the loop!! I see nothing but support here for you and that makes me super happy!! Good luck and travel safe!! ?
Brooke says
Jenna,
I’ve been following your bog since Florida around the time you left your old job.
Just want to say that I am really happy for you and wish you peace and happiness on your journey. It sounds like you’ve been thru a lot, and a separation is certainly a difficult thing to experience. I am proud of your confidence and your ability to stand up and do what you need to do to find clarity in your life.
You are immensely talented and smart. It’s been so much fun to watch your home come together and your business grow. I’ve been incredibly inspired by things I’ve learned and seen you do in your home…thank you for putting it out there for us.
And thank you for sharing this next part of your life.
I hope you will continue to share your experience…even if there’s not a lot of blog action, maybe via instagram?
You’re a sharp lady, and I am sure you are well-equipped, but do be careful traveling alone. Use your head, but follow your heart. 🙂
Looking forward to hearing about your adventure!
Take care,
Brooke
Stacy says
I am looking forward to seeing where your journey takes you. Nothing but support coming from me.
Kristi says
Wow I’m shocked. I’ve been following you, it seems, forever. I am so sorry things didn’t work out but kudos to you for this crazy exciting journey you are on! Wow- I just have so many questions… None of which you need to answer so I won’t even ask. I’ll still follow because you are awesome and I want to see you succeed!
Brooke says
Hi Jenna!
I was totally expecting a different announcement! It really takes so much courage to bring yourself to make that kind of huge decision. Regardless of who ended the marriage, it takes such strength to work through the pain to the other side. I hope you have the best time in Thailand. My dear friends live a little outside of Bangkok and love it. I think you’ll find that your money will go so much further there too. Hope your cute cats are in a good situation! Best of luck. I hope you continue to blog about your journey, even if it becomes more of a personal blog than a design blog.
Brooke says
Also, if you want to be introduced, let me know! I mean I know I don’t personally know you, but it’s always nice to meet new people. He’s American and she’s Thai, they’re the nicest and most welcoming people.
Lizzie @ Living Pretty says
Sorry to hear about your break up. Good luck on your travels – you’re a brave lady and I’m sure you’ll have an amazing experience. I’ll definitely look forward to travel posts!
Jamie | anderson + grant says
As terrifying as the thought of leaving everything behind and starting over is, it is something that I’ve dreamed about for many years as well. There is something very enticing about being able to being fresh with a clean slate. Putting all the troubles and problems in the back of your mind. I wish you the best of luck as you search for clarity and meaning. And maybe you’ll inspire some of us to do the same.
Lucinda says
I’ve never left a comment on a blog before, but your post compels me to do so. I have very few friends in my life I call family. Recently a couple I have known for 17+ years got a divorce. That one couple you never think would. It was hard, I grew up with their kids. It was like my parents were getting a divorce. They had been together 24+ years. I have heard both sides of what happened. There is so much hurt there. I am astonished from the woman’s side, that despite her pain she has picked her self up and is trying to start over. Just by talking to her I have learned so much. I have learned you are enough, nothing is perfect, it takes two to get a divorce, not every story is one sided, you are not being selfish if you leave for awhile and figure things out, it’s ok to start anew and fine you, and my favorite, you don’t have to have it together all the time. You can have emotions and some times you have to show them. All of which can be done in a healthy manner. I don’t know if any of this helps. I sincerely hope you keep this blog going or start a new one. There are a lot of people here to support you. I don’t know what happened, and I don’t need to know. I am glad you and focusing on yourself and finding you. You are amazing! Spread your wings beautiful butterfly and happy landing. 😀
Liz says
How truly brave to share your personal struggle with the world – thank you. Stay true to yourself. I’m looking forward to following however much of your adventure that you choose to share. Do you listen to the podcast “Dear Sugar”? It features author Cheryl Strayed. I just discovered it, and I have a feeling it might resonate with you.
Iris Nacole says
Jenna, I’m so sorry to hear about the separation, but you seem to be on your way to such a wonderful new adventure in your life. I’ll be praying for you as you journey through, and will continue to follow along. Be safe, and have fun!
Linda Grubbs says
Sweet Jenna….not what I was expecting. But.. I definitely wish you all the best on your new adventure. I will miss the decorating side of you….but am excited to see where your new found journey leads you. I have questions too, and maybe one day you’ll share….what will happen to the lovely home you created, what about your business, and the kitties? Might not be any of our business….but I feel close to you and cannot help but wonder. Anyway, all that aside….here is wising you nothing but JOY and happiness. I’ll be waiting for updates!! Be safe sweetie!!! Hugs to you.
Nicole says
The title of this post is my favorite quote that I had custom ordered from you as a print about 3 years ago! It is by far my favorite of all time! I will always be a reader of your blog and I look forward to following your journey on Instagram!
Lindsey says
This is my first time to your blog, I somehow found you through instagram and I just wanted to say good luck with the trip and also ENJOY! I was in Thailand and Vietnam earlier this year and loved it. I heard many wonderful things about how peaceful Pai, Thailand was so I would suggest that as a possible destination for you. I hope this trip gives you what you need.
Amanda @ Heart Tree Home says
Yet another example of “Be kind, for everyone you meet is fighting a hard battle.”
A brave decision you’re making in life and in sharing on the internet. I wish you the best in your travels and hope that it helps you to heal and come out stronger.
Sam says
My boyfriend of 6 years and I just split, so I understand the need for a fresh start. I’m excited to follow along with your journey and wish you safe travels!