It just dawned on me that today marks my one month California anniversary.
One month ago today, I had $100 in my bank account and I packed up my life into two suitcases, hugged my parents goodbye, and boarded a flight to San Francisco with a one way ticket. Pretty crazy, huh? I still can’t believe I had the guts to do it. And you know what? I’ve never looked back. It’s been probably the most interesting month of my life, beginning with hanging out with some of my bestest bloggie friends at BlogHer Food:
I screamed when I saw the Pacific for the first time…
and this:
Lived out of a suitcase while crashing on these two crazy guys couch for a week and a half…
Saw the sunset of my life at Lake Sonoma:
Flew to NEW YORK CITY!!
Bought my first car!
Drank a TON of wine……..
Moved into my very first house all on my own….
And now instead of baking bread in the middle of the night, I get to work here:
Okay, so I know it might look glamorous but it definitely hasn’t been all smiles and perfect happy endings. There’s been some frustration thrown in there, some tears, some homesickness and more than a little stress. People still ask me all the time why I moved out here. I give them the easy, light answer of why not?! Who wouldn’t want to live in wine country?? But the truth is that I just needed to BREATHE. I was willing to take big, big risks because I honestly felt called to move out here. Instead of relying on tangible things for a change, I chose to rely on my faith and follow my heart. I was suffocating in Tampa after last Spring….and though today marks my one month anniversary in this place, it also marks the 6 month anniversary of my brother’s death. It probably would have been EASIER to stay, in many regards, but what fun is the easy way? 😉
I’ve felt God’s hand in so so SO many ways over the past month, as everything has fallen into place, and that has secured my soul in that I made the absolute best decision of my life. I am learning to be on my own and trust myself in ways I’ve never had to before, and relish even the lonely moments of sitting on my floor, eating beans and chatting with my mom, 3,000 miles away. For the first time in a long time I feel like I’m actually LIVING life, not watching it pass right by me. And that, my friends, is the true feeling of contentment.
Namaste!
Katie
October 25, 2009 at 6:29 pmWell said! You are a strong woman!
Ali
October 25, 2009 at 6:29 pmFANTASTIC post. Very heartfelt Jenna. I struggle with not being able to move forward (still in school) and I just want to go go go. I vicariously live through you! Keep the faith lady, you are amazing!
Leianna
October 25, 2009 at 6:30 pmA truly moving post of how happy you are at this moment in life! God truly blessed you! Those pictures of the “West Coast” are amazing! Keep posting those sunsets:)
polly
October 25, 2009 at 6:39 pmhello my sweet friend. Contentment is a beautiful word, and so much easier when we are trusting Him with the details. You know you have massive hugs and prayers from Pol on a daily basis! 🙂 XOXO
Hannah Hawley
October 25, 2009 at 6:40 pmLIVING life is definitely the best part!
Your journey is just beginning. Finding the path that works for you is a part of it.
Keep your head up and your heart open.
Namaste!
Evan Thomas
October 25, 2009 at 6:40 pmIt’s been a month already? What? Time flies!
Jenna
October 25, 2009 at 6:40 pmwow jenna! i can’t believe it has already been a month since you have moved to cali! it seems like it was just last week!
seems like you are having sooo much fun 🙂
jenna
Tay
October 25, 2009 at 6:40 pmWOW time flies!! Such a great adventure, and so worth it!
Cynthia (It All Changes)
October 25, 2009 at 6:42 pmJenna I am so happy for you. The peace that God has granted you in such a short time is truly wonderful. I’m so happy to be able to share your journey on your blog. God will continue to do great things in your life as you lean more on Him 🙂
Kristin @ Iowa Girl Eats
October 25, 2009 at 6:43 pmWOW – one month already?! Time has absolutely flown! It truly is one of the most calming and peaceful feelings in the world when you know you’ve made the right decision. You’re right – it’s not easy leaving behind family and the only life you’ve ever known – but sometimes you’ve got to take big risks to reap big rewards. Good for you, girl!
Hallie
October 25, 2009 at 6:43 pmthis post was beautiful. you really are a wonderful writer. and it’s so cool to see someone like you following her dreams and her heart, no matter what it takes. good for you!
Kristen @ frostingandfroth.com
October 25, 2009 at 6:44 pmWhat a wonderful and inspiring post. So happy for you, Jenna! You deserve a breath of good ol’ California fresh air. 😉
eatmovelove
October 25, 2009 at 6:45 pmWhat an amazing post! I almost cried alittle…yes, I’m a sap and emotional today. Anyhow, I feel like I too just need to ‘breathe’ – I did decide to start the Yoga Teacher Training and will be doing some blogging about it as I go along…I was and still am realllly unsure about it all because I have no idea what I even want to do with it, if anything. And I just feel so lost in life sometimes and wish I could find what will just make me peaceful and happy. But we shall see what happens. Your post makes me think I just need to have some faith. It’s been a rough few years, but someday hopefully I” acheive that peace. Love love love your posts (and I too am living vicariously although I know things are never just as they appear 🙂
Sarah @ See Sarah Eat
October 25, 2009 at 6:45 pmWhat an awesome feeling! I am so glad you are living our life out there 🙂 So many of us settle for what is easy or comfortable. I’m so happy for you! Keep on livin’! God is good 🙂
angieinatlanta
October 25, 2009 at 6:47 pmOh, Jenna, what a POWERFUL post! Kudos to you for following your heart, faith, whatever you want to call it because that’s the scary choice! I’m so happy you’ve found peace!
Emily
October 25, 2009 at 6:51 pmHappy 1-month Anniversary!
It’s inspiring to read about how your stepped out in faith and moved across the country. I’m struggling with trusting God about what I’m going to do after I’m done with my dietetic internship and where I’m going to live, but your post was a good reminder that he’ll keep directing and providing as he always has.
Allie (Live Laugh Eat)
October 25, 2009 at 6:52 pmI’m so happy for you…for taking the plunge and letting life lead you to so many wonderful places (and people!). I hope I get a big break like you someday and get the opportunity to live the life I’ve always wanted.
Sharon
October 25, 2009 at 6:53 pmI can’t tell you how great it is to here you are well. I truely do believe you are doing what you are supposed to and are listening to your true voice. Good for you. Not many people recognize this or listen to this voice. Many people are envious of this. Go this way. Many good things will occur.
Heather @ Health, Happiness, and Hope
October 25, 2009 at 6:56 pmWhat a beautiful recap Jenna! You have come so far in this past month and you have so much to look forward to in this new adventure. Keep following that faith, and I know it will lead you to happiness. 🙂
VeggieGirl
October 25, 2009 at 6:57 pmHere’s to many more months of happiness in CA for ya!
Jess
October 25, 2009 at 6:58 pmThat’s so crazy that it’s already been a month since you embarked on your journey! Congratulations on making the plunge and everything turning out so well!
Kath
October 25, 2009 at 6:58 pmGreat post J! Especially the opening photo 😉
Estela @ Weekly Bite
October 25, 2009 at 6:59 pmYou are truly living your life! I’m so happy for you!
Anna
October 25, 2009 at 7:00 pmAMEN to that, girl!
Truly LIVING your life sometimes involves zooming out of your comfort zone at 1000 mph. If you’re doing what’s truly right, everything in the universe will just fall into place around you 🙂
Stephanie
October 25, 2009 at 7:00 pmSuch a wonderful month for you, I totally look up to you for being so gutsy and following your heart 🙂 and now you are somewhere wonderful that you never thought you’d be, how amazing!
alyssa
October 25, 2009 at 7:01 pmah, your life is such a blessing. so glad you are enjoying it down to the last drop!
Eating Journey
October 25, 2009 at 7:04 pmMy heart started racing when I saw your post. I totally know what you mean. It’s the moment that you let go of your mind and let God lead your life is when you truly live. It’s not an easy thing to do, because it’s frought with danger and uncertainity. However, it all works out in the end. I think that it’s such an important thing to do–live for life..not for something you think that you should be doing. It’s the same thing I did when I moved to Australia–just packed up and moved. I am so glad that you’ve rooted yourself in your faith. That’s you’re breathing for YOU in a new place that YOURS. Congrats Jenna.
MMiller
October 25, 2009 at 7:12 pmSo glad your move has given you the time to just breathe! You have sounded so, so happy since you moved! Glad it seems to be the change you needed!
Felicia
October 25, 2009 at 7:12 pmSo wonderful. 🙂 I’m happy that things are going so well for you in CA!
It’s so great to take risks in life and be rewarded for it. I committed to an apartment in NYC before I had a job there. It was scary, my mom was less than pleased, but I had faith that it would work out. Luckily it did, and it was the best decision ever!
Enjoy living life!
Laura @ Backstage Pass to Health & Happiness
October 25, 2009 at 7:15 pmWhat a journey you’ve had! Keep up with the adventures, we’re all living vicariously through you 🙂
Megan (The Runner's Kitchen)
October 25, 2009 at 7:15 pmSo jealous of all your beautiful sunny weather and yummy food! Congrats on one month on the West Coast! How’s your ankle? Are you able to run again?
Julie @savvyeats
October 25, 2009 at 7:18 pmSuch a sweet post; I’m in awe of you!
Nicole
October 25, 2009 at 7:19 pmJenna, you amaze me! Keep living life, and I hope to be able to take such a risk at some point in my life. How was church this morning?
Danielle
October 25, 2009 at 7:20 pm“When life gives you lemons… trade them in for grapes and make wine.”
Yep, I just quoted myself, but I did it for you 😉 happy Cali-anniversary!
Katie @ (Findings and Adventures)
October 25, 2009 at 7:23 pmYou rock! What an amazing experience you’re having.
Danielle
October 25, 2009 at 7:23 pmIt certainly has been a whirlwind month for you, but I’m so glad that you are filled with joy in this new phase of your life.
Enjoy!
Danielle
Kellyjus
October 25, 2009 at 7:25 pmHi Jenna. I am a new reader of your blog and I think you are just outstanding. Seriously. I love that you are so open and honest in your posts and that you are not afraid to be imperfect. I have found your blog to be the most inspirational one that I have read. Please keep up the good work…and keep a smile on your face. And kudos to you for following your heart-it works EVERY time! 🙂
Gina
October 25, 2009 at 7:25 pmBravo for a touching and heatfelt post!We are with you every step of the way in this adventure called life.
For some reason this post made me think of the passing of your brother John.No doubt he in so many ways has helped give you that little push to take a risk,that little tap on the shoulder to say you can do it,and that feeling of beauty and peace you get from the ocean.
You are giving a beautiful tribute to his life by living yours in a way that seizes the day and knows life’s little ups and downs from apartment woes to twisted ankles are such small details in the very big gift of life we have all been given.
Thank you for sharing your writings and thoughts and making me reflect and treasure life a little more….
maria
October 25, 2009 at 7:33 pmIt has been a seriously good and busy month for you, Jenna! But it looks amazing. You are doing so well and I’m proud of you for following your heart, even when it wasn’t the easy choice!
Mama Pea
October 25, 2009 at 7:37 pmThis is so beautiful, Jenna. Sometimes it takes awhile to get the kind of perspective that it sounds like you have gotten over the past month. And all that wine couldn’t have hurt either 🙂 I hope this experience continues to help you grow, as a young woman and a child of God!
Joelle (The Pancake Girl))
October 25, 2009 at 7:37 pmWell said…I don’t know you more than what i read in your blog, but I am truly proud of you. It takes a brave person to make a big change. Go boldly.
Marcia
October 25, 2009 at 7:38 pmI can’t tell you how freaky it is to see my two favorite bloggers in the same photo. Surreal!
I hope you continue to enjoy your life in Cali. We’re lucky to have you.
On running…next May, wine country half, Santa Barbara County…think about it!
Maria Sparks
October 25, 2009 at 7:41 pmJenna,
Your post tonight moved me. I’ve been really struggling with some decisions of my own and since I have a husband and two daughters that also depend on me these decisions can’t be made lightly. I can’t just up and quit my job (even though I would LOVE to) but I have been moving in the direction of being able to in a few months time. I am NOT looking back and I am putting every ounce of energy I can into making this happen. I read your blog everyday because you inspire me to do MY blog better and make it something that I can rely on not only as an outlet, but also as a way to contribute financially to my family while being here for them physically. Thank You! And keep on writing!
Laura
October 25, 2009 at 7:43 pmI am so proud of you. I only hope that one day I might be able to do the same thing. I’m praying for you, girl. With him, all things ARE possible.
Lizzy
October 25, 2009 at 7:44 pmi’m so happy for you! i can’t believe its been a month already! Keep doing what you love girl!
Madelin @ What is for breakfast?
October 25, 2009 at 7:48 pmI am really enjoying reading about your adventures and eats in California! Despite the stress you always have a positive attitude which I realy admire and that’s why I keep reading :).
Michelle
October 25, 2009 at 7:49 pmWhat a beautiful post…brought tears to my eyes! Thanks for sharing your journey Jenna!
gina (fitnessista)
October 25, 2009 at 7:50 pmgorgeous post my friend. so glad everything has worked out the way it should. you’re amazing 😀
Suzanne de Cornelia
October 25, 2009 at 7:50 pmOutrageously great post…tears. You’ve been a HUGE inspiration to me. I’ve always been adventurous, strong, lived as I wished, had national career, wonderful son, travel, tons of life experience and nothing has had the power to devastate me except my brother’s tragic death. That’s why I left San Francisco for the Del Monte Forest near the beach in Carmel and spent a year crying/walking over 2,000 miles in the sand [quit counting at 2,000], and when have never been a cry baby. So truly am in AWE with all you have ACCOMPLISHED in 30-days starting with $100 in your pocket/bank account! [Money’s money. Great to have but not defining, but still, that’s a terrific thing to be able to say…that you did that]. Anis Nin said that life expands to the degree of courage and you have that and so much more. Including being authentic, having drive and standards, and making little things fascinating. I’ve been bored on dates with surgeons and you have me intrigued with overnight oats! How’d that happen? LOL! Have known a lot of public people with huge accomplishments, have seen what it takes to do ‘big things’ and have no doubt you will. You already are, and will remain yourself through it. And probably marry some totally super winery owner or something towards 30-ish. Well done, Jenna. Incredibly well done, and totally inspiring. Forget ‘What Would Jackie Do?” It’s “What would Jenna Do?!”
Actually, just thought of this. You remind me of my protagonist, Alexa, a former CIA Operative who escapes Upper East Side for Aix-en-Provence with next to nothing and then gets involved in this huge story. Wrote it over a year ago in the UCLA Writing Program and used to sit at French cafes editing, or whatever. Alexa was so real to me that thought I’d spot her on the street. Take a look at the book concept cover on my site-when you have a chance. On the left side is a pix of a blonde…that’s ‘Alexa.’ Just like you [though about 10-years older, with more lipstick and some Chanel]. I took all her $$ away from her but ‘let’ her keep some vintage Chanel…little boucle jacket with nice trim to wear with high heels & jeans, etc. A girl can’t go to Aix in rags, much as that rat ex of hers Win Sterling would have wished it. She DID compromise her cushy living arrangements, but doesn’t compromise her honor/values. Like SOMEONE we all know. 😉
Very well written post….flows like a great story with all of the contrast/drama/highs and lows, etc. Cue the music.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=J8rU2CK_1FI
A votre sante!
Brandi
October 25, 2009 at 7:51 pmGreat post. On a completely different note, has anyone ever told you, you look like Carmen Electra? I took a look at the first pic and thought so. I think it’s the eyes. Maybe I’m just crazy. ^^
Anna
October 25, 2009 at 7:51 pmYour strength in starting this new adventure is immeasurable – to start a new journey, a new path, and embrace a new part of life takes courage, so much courage.
I admire you.
Also – thank you for letting me know I’m not the only one who loves my oatmeal for breakfast – and now I’m adding almond (or pistachio) butter to it for some variety… I love reading your updates and being reminded of the wonderful coastal area where I wished I lived instead of just visited.
elliebelle
October 25, 2009 at 8:00 pmWow, first of all, I can’t believe it’s already been a month that you’ve been in California. Second, that was a lovely, heartfelt post. Thank you for sharing. 🙂
Rebecca
October 25, 2009 at 8:05 pmLOVE this post! You’ve come such a long way! I love your blog!
Kyra
October 25, 2009 at 8:06 pmHi Jenna! I recently started reading your blog and love it! Congrats on your life changes and hopefully everything continues looking up from here! I live in St. Pete, FL btw! Too funny to think a few months ago you were living maybe 30 minutes from me!
Kate
October 25, 2009 at 8:10 pmAwesome Post! Thank you! Your courage and enthusiasm is SHINING in this… I just may work to make some of my dreams come true. Thanks for being an inspiration!
Jolene (www.everydayfoodie.ca)
October 25, 2009 at 8:13 pmWhat an amazing life change. I am inspired by your bravery and your willingness to let life take you where it may. I hope that many good things are in store for you in wine country, and in life in general 🙂 You are a sweetheart and you deserve all the joys that life has to offer!
Jolene xoxox
P.S. your place looks super cute! Is it an apartment?
AprilBinTX
October 25, 2009 at 8:14 pmGood for you Jenna! I really enjoy following your journey and I admire your courage and strength in following your heart and your faith.
Fancy
October 25, 2009 at 8:21 pmThank you for allowing us to be a part of your amazing journey. Your blog has touched so many of us, thank you so much for writing it 🙂
Kasey @ Fit For Wellness
October 25, 2009 at 8:21 pmWhat a beautiful, reflective post! I admire your strength… nothing worthwhile comes easy and you have managed to remain positive throughout the tough times in your life… Thanks for sharing and being such an inspiration!
Carrie @ I See Monsters
October 25, 2009 at 8:24 pmCongratulations!! It’s amazing to go from feeling like your life is living YOU to feeling like you’re actually living YOUR LIFE. Bravo. You deserve all the happiness in the world! And wine. LOL. 🙂
Kailey (SnackFace)
October 25, 2009 at 8:24 pmJenna, this is a gorgeous post! Thank you so much for this. I am going to share this with my friends, as we are all facing a time where we have to start looking to the future and figuring out actual careers. Graduation is approaching, and with your story, it makes me compelled to trust my instincts and say “why not” to whatever I face. Thank you, thank you, thank you!
Morgan @ Life After Bagels
October 25, 2009 at 8:28 pmOh Jenna – Thank you so much for posting the craziness of the last month. I am the last person who would make a jump like you did into a new adventure. But just following what you’ve done makes me a teensy bit more daring . . . I think. We’ll wait till I’m tested.
*Andrea*
October 25, 2009 at 8:30 pmhappy 1 month CALI-versary 😉
congrats on finding contentment. that’s an INCREDIBLE feat 🙂 you are amazing!!
G
October 25, 2009 at 8:32 pmAwesome post J-Lady, I felt inspired to take on some new risks while reading it. Glad your loving the NorCal life, your photos of the Wine County (and of Lucerne dairy products 🙂 make me miss life up there. Keep up the good work, I’m sure your brother is beaming from above right now
Deva (Voracious Vorilee)
October 25, 2009 at 8:41 pmHere is to many many more wonderful months in California. I am glad that you followed your heart and that it is finding you such wonderful contentment and breathing space! I cannot wait to read more about your adventures in Cali and in Wine Country – so exciting!
Chelsea (Chelsea's Chew and Run Fun)
October 25, 2009 at 8:42 pmBeautiful post, Jenna. I really admire the tenacity of your spirit.
Erin
October 25, 2009 at 8:56 pmJenna – It has been so much fun (minus the sprained ankle and initial apt issue) to read about your adventures! It is scary to take big risks, but big risks pay back big rewards and this is only the first month. Once you do something like this month, it gives you the confidence to know you can do anything and you will always have what it takes. Keep it up!
ellen eats beets
October 25, 2009 at 9:00 pmContinue to follow your spirit girl, it’s done this many good things for you this far, it just can’t let you down!
Lindsay
October 25, 2009 at 9:10 pmWhat a beautiful 4 weeks! I moved here almost two years ago on a similar hunch. I had just turned 22. It’s never easy being far away from family, but there’s something about this Northern California place… you just gotta love it! Hope your new camera arrives soon. Have a great week.
Michele | aka Raw Juice Girl
October 25, 2009 at 9:22 pmWow.
Jenna, I can feel your passion and heart in every word of this post. I love it.
Keep it up girl, you’re doing fantabulous!!!!
Congratulations on everything!
Hugs,
Michele
skinnyrunner
October 25, 2009 at 9:56 pmwhat a great post! the vulnerability and honestness of it was amazing! may God bless you now and in the future!!
Mastering Public Health
October 25, 2009 at 10:05 pmI can relate about wanting to take life by the reigns. Rest assured, you are most certainly doing that. Can’t wait to see what lies ahead (for both of us)!
kristin
October 25, 2009 at 11:02 pmNothing really compares to the moment you realize you are actually LIVING. The crazy mix of emotions- the happy, sad, depressing, frustrating, lonesome, fear, panic, anxiety, worry, excitement, joy, and every other emotion possible- really defines life, I think. Truly happy for you- and excited for what is to come!
MelissaNibbles
October 26, 2009 at 2:27 amCongratulations on taking chances and making things happen for yourself. It’s easy to let people do everything for us and just coast by in life, but it takes courage to set out on your own. Yes, God had his hand in it all, but YOU made this happen Jenna. Congratulations you deserve it all.
Kim
October 26, 2009 at 2:40 amThank you for such lovely inspiring words everyday. Just wanted to let you that I really look forward to your posts & all your new adventures.
Jessica @ How Sweet It Is
October 26, 2009 at 3:33 amBeautiful post. Can’t believe it has already been a month, God works in wonderful ways!
Debbie
October 26, 2009 at 3:34 amJenna this was a beautiful post. It touch me to the soul. Living your true life takes a lot of courage and a lot of faith. You are doing wonderful in California and should be so proud of yourself. A chance like this does not happen every day.
Gab*
October 26, 2009 at 3:43 amWow, what a great month! Hope things continue to go well for you. I moved across the country (Australia) and left my family behind, it worked out well for me and taught me lots!
Susan
October 26, 2009 at 3:56 amLove everything about this post!!! You have been through SO much Jenna, and it makes me so happy to see you come through the other side. I know we only get a snapshot of your life on the blog, and I have no doubt there’s been a lot of hardship in your transition out West. But you said it perfectly in that you are now LIVING life. Sometimes I forget to do that – thanks for the reminder!
Paige@ RunningAroundNormal
October 26, 2009 at 4:00 amWow! What a whirl wind of a month! Congrats, Jenna! You are truly a strong, beautiful woman!
christie, honoring health
October 26, 2009 at 4:09 amBeautiful post, Jenna. You are such a strong, inspirational woman!
Cari
October 26, 2009 at 4:35 amI just found your blog over the weekend and I am so happy that I did! It’s great! This post was so inspiring. What a great thing you’re doing! It must be scary and yet so exciting at the same time. I look forward to reading more about your journey.
chandra
October 26, 2009 at 4:48 amAwe, this about made me cry! Its so great to see people take a chance and have it turn out amazing. I hope my upcoming career change goes just as well!
ps – I might have to stop reading your blog because you’re making me REALLY want to move to Cali! 😉
Dad
October 26, 2009 at 4:52 amGREAT Blog post! We are so proud of you!!
We love you—and you did the right thing!!
Love Dad
Matt
October 26, 2009 at 5:15 amWow has it been a month already? It seems like you moved out there last week!
Kristen
October 26, 2009 at 5:16 amThis post makes me smile. Moves aren’t supposed to be smooth and glamorous and life changes always involve tears…congratulations on doing it all anyway!
Kim
October 26, 2009 at 5:20 amHey Jenna, I’ve really enjoyed reading about the way you have embraced the challenges and the joys with hope and trust in God. Reading this post was just really cool to hear how God is working in your life and how you’re leaning into the process, eager to learn more, even if its hard. You’re awesome!!
Ashley
October 26, 2009 at 5:23 amyou are always inspiring when you dont’ even realize it. you help so many people who are struggling so many times jenna. SO happy for you! you deserve all of this and more 🙂
leslie
October 26, 2009 at 5:24 amyou’re an inspiration, jenna, really and truly. congrats on grabbing life and making it count.
Annie
October 26, 2009 at 5:28 amAwesome Jenna! You rock!
C
October 26, 2009 at 6:03 amI admire your courage! Best of Luck!!
A@ Please Don't Eat Me!
October 26, 2009 at 6:14 amI envy anyone who has the courage and the strength to jump ship and take off with basically the clothes on her back and make it happen.
you are doing a great job out there!!!
Mellissa
October 26, 2009 at 6:19 amThat made me cry! Way to go on fulling living your best life!
brandi
October 26, 2009 at 6:26 amI think it’s awesome that you’ve taken this adventure and just ran with it – congrats on making the one month mark. You’re sure to have many more adventures in the future 🙂
Whit
October 26, 2009 at 6:35 amOh Jenna, this made me smile. Enjoy your journey!
Katrina (gluten free gidget)
October 26, 2009 at 6:43 amCongratulations on finding your breath again!
Kati
October 26, 2009 at 6:44 amYou are an inspiration to follow one’s dreams! I think only good comes from following your heart and stepping out on faith!
Sharmila
October 26, 2009 at 6:50 amDear Jenna,
I love following your blog just the last week, it is so great! 🙂 I was touched by this blog today because lately I feel as though my life is opening up into this huge *faith spot and I’m learning what it means to stand firm, to be flexible and to trust not only God but in myself.. so this was so encouraging! I love these parts where you shared:
I chose to rely on my faith and follow my heart.
I’ve felt God’s hand in so so SO many ways over the past month, as everything has fallen into place, and that has secured my soul in that I made the absolute best decision of my life. I am learning to be on my own and trust myself in ways I’ve never had to before…
Thank you.. for being so open to share.. what God has done in your life, as you’ve been willing to step out and be uncomfortable, to be all that you know you can be … one loving step at a time!
Namaste!
luv Jen
Kalli
October 26, 2009 at 7:19 amJenna,
I am so glad you took on this adventure. I am so proud of you!
Cait (Cait's Plate)
October 26, 2009 at 7:20 amYou should be so proud of yourself Jenna. You’ve had the strength to accomplish so much more than most of us could ever even DREAM of! Just remember, even if it feels hard sometimes, all of us readers are SO inspired and proud of you!! Keep it up!
Sandy
October 26, 2009 at 7:29 amYour move inspired me to seek out a new adventure and come to visit Sonoma on my bike trip. That trip was so successful that I am now looking at other adventure trips for 2010. I have moved past regretting having an empty nest to looking for fabulous ways to enjoy life. I no longer am looking for ways to fill my day but instead adventures to fill my life.
HeatherBakes
October 26, 2009 at 7:41 amGreat post, Jenna!! You really are an inspiration. Way to follow your heart!
Lauren
October 26, 2009 at 7:54 amYou’re doing an amazing job! It looks like so much fun!
Whitney @ Lettuce Love
October 26, 2009 at 8:12 amCongrats on your 1 month anniversary! Great post 🙂
Laura
October 26, 2009 at 8:36 amYou are awsome. Everything you are doing sounds so exciting. What a great adventure. Thanks for sharing.
Cinemarie
October 26, 2009 at 8:45 amBeautiful post Jenna, it really spoke to me. Thank you for writing it. I have been ‘out of my comfort zone’ for close to 10 years now, pushing my boundaries, moving far from home, working as a freelancer on contracts that challenge me so much I wonder how I get up in the morning. But it is so rewarding – I’m working hard, and I’m accomplishing things I am proud of. I’m doing it! And I have 0 regret – I would never go back. I find there’s something so beautiful in just ‘jumping’ into an adventure like the one you just started. You are very strong Jenna!
Julie
October 26, 2009 at 8:49 amWow that was awesome. I wish I had your courage to do something like this. You are an amazing soul!
Sassy Molassy
October 26, 2009 at 10:07 amClearly, sometimes just taking that big LEAP is worth it! Sounds like it was definitely the right time for you. Congrats on 1month in San Fran, Jenna!
Andrea
October 26, 2009 at 10:24 amJenna –
I have been following your blog for a couple months and just wanted you to know you have been an inspiration to me on many different levels. Big congrats on taking chances and following your heart. There isn’t anything that makes you feel more alive than taking that leap of faith.
Cheers,
Andrea
Tina
October 26, 2009 at 10:29 amSoo many beautiful pictures! It’s crazy to think where life takes you sometimes. It even surprises me sometimes to think that I now live on the east coast, right by D.C., and away from all my family. I can’t wait for all the many adventures that are going to come in my life! 😀
Andee (Runtolive)
October 26, 2009 at 11:12 amJenna, you are an amazing writer. I love this post! I am a huge believer in that everything happens for a reason, you are truly an inspiration to many!
Laura Cunnington
October 26, 2009 at 11:58 amI can’t believe that horrible accident happened 6 months ago. My heart still goes out to you and your family.
Fitzalan
October 26, 2009 at 12:16 pmWow–amazing post.
I just quit my job last week and do not have a new job to move on to. I had to do it, it was slowly killing me.
Seeing how far you have gone based on trusting yourself and your faith, it gives me some added courage to take these incredible leap into the unknown.
Happiness Awaits
Courtney (The Hungry Yogini)
October 26, 2009 at 12:17 pmJenna,
I can’t tell you how much you have inspired me! So much so, that I marched my little hiney down to the international studies office today and am in the process of MOVING TO PARIS!!! WHAT!?!?!? Who am I? I’m hoping to make it happen next Spring or Summer. I’ll study for a semester and hopefully get a job after. We shall see! Paris or BUST!
Here’s to big decisions, and being brave. You are amazing!!
Much love,
Courtney
Anne
October 26, 2009 at 12:56 pmJenna!
Reading this just made me cry!! LOVE YOU!
Anne.
Jenny Eastwood @JennyLikesToRun, On a mission to run a marathon to fundraise for the breast cancer foundation
October 26, 2009 at 1:13 pmI had no idea your brother passed away… I’m so so sorry… But I’m really really happy to hear that you’re living your life and taking risks to move forward and live differently. I’m inspired by your passion and determination 🙂
Sounds like one hell of a busy month and even though there were some ups and downs, it sounds like you’ve come out stronger than ever on top.
Thank you for sharing that with us, I’m even more inspired by you now than I was before. xoxo
Mackenzie
October 26, 2009 at 1:37 pmI’ve been following this blog for awhile and can’t help but be corny and say that I’m super inspired!
I’d have to say you are definitely having a “Tetris” month, where almost everything is falling nicely into place! You deserve it 🙂
Mackenzie
October 26, 2009 at 3:40 pmI’ve been a longtime reader, since the beginning, but I’m now mustering up the courage to comment! I just wanted to say that your story is one of the most inspiring I’ve ever come across. I’m in college right now, my first year, and I’ve come across alot of road blocks pertaining to what I need to do to get where I need to be. I always love coming to your blog everyday (most times it’s more!) to read your beautiful writing. It’s always such a treat to see someone living the dream despite all the tragic setbacks. It’s inspiring to see your hardwork is paying off and everything is coming together with you like a game of “tetris”! 🙂
Like we say in my family, you’re “riding a gravy train with biscuit wheels!”. You deserve it, girl! 🙂
Fattie Fatterton
October 26, 2009 at 5:03 pmCongratulations on your first month there. I know that you’ll be successful at whatever you try. It took a lot of guts to move across the country – but you did it and you’re making your own life out there.
Adrienne
October 26, 2009 at 5:20 pmHonest and pure post! Keep looking for the blessings in the unexpected
Renee
October 26, 2009 at 7:37 pmSuch a beautiful post. You are truly an amazing, strong and beautiful woman! May God continue to bless your ‘new’ life in Cali. Many prayers are with you! =)
P.S. I think of you often in my grad-level Health Spirituality class. It’s very ‘Jenna’ (which is good)!
Kristin
October 27, 2009 at 10:55 amCongrats on your new life, I know you needed the change and from what I can tell, it has treated you well. I feel for your losses but I know your brother is smiling down on your new life in CA. I wish you only the best of luck and will continue to follow along…(as you’re one of the few food blogs I can still keep up with…:) Hope you’re having a great week!
Kristin
December 12, 2011 at 10:12 amAs I prepare to move 1,000+ miles from WI to Seattle, WA this post is exactly what I needed to read right now! Your words are truly inspirational and I can relate to what you have expressed (so eloquently!) in many ways. Thank you for your wonderful blog – you touch more lives than you know!