Remember how I had another marathon planned for March 1st? Remember how I haven’t gone longer than 14 miles in a long time? Yeah… about that.
I am dropping down from the marathon to the 1/2 for Phoenix in March and hoping to just break 1:30.
The reason:
This whole divorce thing has been rather stressful. At the beginning I was able to manage hard training because I think I was kind of in denial/shock but the grieving process is crazy and of course it has affected my training. They say it takes a year to feel back to normal after a divorce for a reason (and I completely agree with this especially because mine was so sudden).
Hopefully, I will be able to do a marathon in June but I really don’t mess around with the marathon. Marathon training is a beast. I respect the distance and the training that goes into it because my body can’t just handle running/racing 26.2 miles like it isn’t a big deal. Between not sleeping well at night and my body feeling run down from all of the stress that has been going on, I (and my coach) realized that the timing to train for a marathon isn’t the best right now.
Before you know it, I’ll be doing crazy workouts that my coach sends me again but for the last little while I have really just had to focus on keeping myself healthy without all of the extra miles and physical stress that comes along with marathon training. One of the main reasons I have been running lately is to run with friends (aka my therapists) so basically I have just been doing the workouts that my friends have planned and that has been working out great for me.
Added bonus—> I actually really love the half marathon distance and I have been building an awesome base.
————————-
On a crazy EXCITING note. I am going to Thailand in March. Yep. Thailand.
Brooke and I went to the passport office this morning to get my passport renewed.
Brooke is bummed that she won’t be coming this time but then I promised to take her to Disneyland sometime in the very near future and she forgave me.
The reason for Thailand:
My best friend since the 9th grade (we met in Mrs. Jensen’s english class) has been living there for the last 3 years and it is time for her to be my tour guide.
I decided that when Brooke is gone with her dad that I should go travel (not every time obviously but for the times that she is gone for longer periods of time). Yes, this is one of those spur of the moment mid-life crisis/divorcee crazy decisions but I can’t wait.
Thailand, you better be ready for me.
COOLEST place that you have ever been?
262 comments
Adriana @Laced Up With Lipstick
That’s so awesome Janae! I think it’s a fabulous idea!!! I love Brooke in the fur, too cute!!!
Ren
Travelling while she’ll be away sounds like an AWESOME idea (obviously not every time, but this time sounds perfect)!! Good for you for taking good care of yourself! And thanks for opening up about how tough things have been. You’re a star.
Kari @ Running Ricig
It sounds like you’re making a really smart decision about dropping to the half. You’ll definitely rock the marathon when you get back to it!
Thailand sounds AWESOME! The coolest place I’ve ever been is probably Vienna when I was a sophomore in college. I haven’t done much traveling since then, though.
Amy @ Long Drive Journey
Janae that is wonderful news about Thailand! I’m hoping to plan my own trip there this year (maybe). I’m worried about rainy season though, since I was going to go during the summer. We’ll see. Sounds like you are being smart about dropping down to the half marathon. Give yourself permission to take as much time as you need to heal, even if that means time off from marathon training. It’s great that you can still run with friends and enjoy!
Joshua Hansen
Ooooo … I want to go to Thailand!
Also, I love the half marathon as well. It’s hard bumping it up to a marathon, because of the time commitment. Either way … GOOD LUCK!
Ashley @ My Food N Fitness Diaries
I think your decision to go with the half marathon distance is very wise, and I respect you so much for your reasoning behind it. It all makes total sense to me! I’m so proud of you and impressed with how you’ve been dealing with everything.
And wow – SO stoked for you and your trip to Thailand! I’m sure it’ll be incredible!
Hollie
First that should be so fun Janae! You will love it there. I went when I lived in Japan for a couple of years and really enjoyed myself. You’ve handled everything well and with such composure. I’ll continue to tell you that.
Second, what about a fall marathon…hint hint…wineglass in NY…you can travel and wait for extra time.
Courtney
I just went to Thailand (Phuket) last September! It was definitely the coolest place I’ve been! You’re going to love it. Get ready to be sweaty 24/7 though. Holy humidity! But, the most beautiful beaches I’ve ever seen! And the little random islands popping up everywhere? Amazing. We took a speedboat tour one day that took us to like 8 different islands off the coast and we were able to snorkel, jump off the side of the boat in random bays, lay out on the beaches. ahhh I miss it! Enjoy! What city are you going to?
Brandy
Wow!!! My friend is from Thailand & I love to hear stories when he & his wife go visit. Super cool & a great distraction with Brooke gone. :(
Coolest place I’ve ever been is probably Jamaica?? Went once for a mission trip my senior year of high school & then I went back to get married/honeymoon. beautiful place! We are actually going to CA (think Paso Robles/San Fran, etc) in early June & I’m soooo pumped!
Lindsay
Good for you!!! Sounds like you’re making the right decisions, all around! You’re truly an inspiration, Janae!
Emma @ Culturecopia
Janae, that’s awesome that you’re going to Thailand. I’ve only heard good things! How long are you going for? I’ll be curious to hear your thoughts because I’m thinking of going in August (crazy humidity, I realize, but it’s the perfect time before grad school!).
Enjoy that half marathon – such a great distance!
Susan - Nurse on the Run
Thailand is high on my list of places to go, and I definitely think it’s a great time for you to travel and explore. One of my friends just went there in December and it looks AMAZING. (Please say hi to the elephants for me!)
Carson
This is awesome! I have never really been anywhere super cool, so I will have to live vicariously through your Thailand play-by-play when you go.
Jess @ Blonde Ponytail
WOW! So glad you are doing this while you can J! I hear March is the best time to visit Thailand because you avoid the rainy season?? I think?? And, it takes a lot of guts to know when the right time to train for a full is. You are respecting the distance and your body. Marathon training is such a big commitment! Hugs to you always.
Jane
I really appreciate this post for its balance of really awesome things and really sad/bummer things.
HOORAY for going to Thailand! Good for you for taking advantage of such a great opportunity!
Blarg and boo for the sad, frustrating, and difficult time having an effect on not only your running plans, but your life in general. You are one tough cookie and I appreciate your honesty throughout your blogging.
I hope you spend lots of fun time planning your visit with your friend and I am eagerly anticipating following your training as you prepare for the 1/2 in March! Hooray for 1/2’s :)
Soak up those jolly moments Janae! Thanks for sharing with us!
Coolest place I’ve ever been: Southern Chile…first time I ever saw an active volcano and it blew my mind!
Alyona Oborn
Im so excited for you, it will be great adventure, I have heard great things about Thailand :)
Kristina @ Blog About Running
Thailand! That is awesome, especially since your friend has been living there and will know all of the best places to take you!
I have no idea what the weather seasons are like in Thailand, but from that picture I am just imaging lots of warmth and sunshine in your near-ish future. What a great idea!
Michele @ NYC Running Mama
This makes me so incredibly happy!! I am glad that you are going to do some traveling while Brooke is away – so much better to be out and staying busy and having FUN then staying home grieving the whole time.
And I give you so much credit for being smart about the marathon. A divorce is stressful enough – get through this first and then focus on the marathon.
Ashley
Good for you!! Seriously it will be life changing, can’t even imagine!
April
Thailand? Wow!! and good for you! You need some time and space for yourself especially given what you are navigating right now.
My husband is from Morocco, so we’ve been twice. Once to get married and a second time to take my son. For the four days immediately following the three day wedding, we took a car and travelled along the coastline and I got to see amazing sights. The country has some beautiful scenery along the coast.
Olivia
Janae, I have been reading your blog for about a year now and I just HAD to comment on this post. I just got back from 3 weeks in Thailand a couple of days ago and you will LOVE it! So exciting to travel to such a far away place and experience such a different way of life. The beaches are awesome but you should definitely go north to the Chiang Mai area if you have time. The weather is cooler and the mountains are ridiculously beautiful! Enjoy it! Also, I have to say I have been dealing with a nasty case of posterior tibial tendinitis for more than 6 months now (last 2 with no running at all). It struck when I was training for a sub 1:30 half last summer and its taking forever to go away. Its been ridiculously frustrating and some days I feel like I’m never going to be able to run pain free again. Some days I am so desperate to run that I just want to run through it but then I go back and read some of your posts from when you were dealing with your IT-band injury and am reminded that one run is not worth what it might mean for recovery in the long run. Thanks for your relentlessly positive outlook in spite of the difficulties life has thrown at you this year! Enjoy Thailand! You deserve it!
Ali
That’s awesome! I’ve been to Thailand before and I loved it. Where are you going in Thailand?
Jen@milesandblessings
Wow! That is super exciting and you will have a blast! I have actually been there for a short time before as part of a missions trip. It was something I will never forget!
You will do great in the 1/2 and sounds like a smart decision! Messing with the full is never a good idea :)….I definitely respect the distance!
Super excited for you…in my news…
I am moving to MARYLAND!!!!!
Amy
Amazing news on the trip to Thailand!! That is on my top places to go. Enjoy the trip and catching up with your friend.
Smart decision on the full. You forgot how demanding training for a full is and if you’re not ready it can destroy you. Last year I pushed myself to complete my second and almost ended up in the looney bin. Got it done but sticking with halfs :)
PS Love the pics of Brooke! So sweet
megan @ that running girl
SOOO jealous you’re going to Thailand! I have to say the coolest place I’ve ever been is a close tie: The Cayman Islands and The Bahamas.
I think it’s awesome that you’re listening to your body and your heart and cutting back to a half marathon. After my dad died I went crazy running off adrenaline, but eventually I crashed and definitely had good days and bad. It’s so great to listen to how you’re feeling and go off that. Good luck training for your half!
Kelly Sites
I was in Thailand a few years ago. We were in Chang Rai and Chang Mai. Great place to visit. Very interesting culture.
Coolest place I’ve been was Uganda, Bolivia, and most recently I was in Tacloban, Philippines for disaster response work (for a month right after the typhoon) and it was destruction, but you could see how beautiful it would have been prior to the horrible typhoon. I LOVED the people!!!!
Kelly in Michigan
Ange @ Cowgirl Runs
Janae, I think it’s so wonderful how eloquently you write about your divorce and your feelings. It’s so wonderful that you are doing what’s best for YOU right now and I truly love and respect that.
Ashleigh
The race is on! Ha ha just kidding. I’m doing the half, but it’ll be slow. Hope you do another meet up when you’re in Arizona. Froyo always sounds good. Coolest place? Canary Islands. Served my mission there 10 years ago and need to get back ASAP!
Jessi
I agree with what everyone else has said about the marathon training.
And Thailand? I am SO jealous. The coolest (although not in terms of temperature, haha) place I’ve ever been is China/Hong Kong last year.
Katie@LifesNextBigStep
I’m so jealous of your trip, I’ve heard amazing things about Thailand…what a great way to treat yourself too!! Do they have froyo in Thailand??
Coolest place I’ve ever been is a toss up between Kauai, Hawaii or Madrid and Barcelona. Although next on my bucket list is an African Safari…hopefully sometime soon!!
Promise that you’ll take a ride on an elephant while you’re there. Elephants are my favorite :)
Sarah
Janae I never comment but I am soooo excited for you. The coolest place I’ve ever been IS Thailand!!! Last summer my boyfriend and I went there for a month and visited Bangkok, Koh Samui and Koh Tao and I went to Phuket a few years before with one of my best friends. Thailand makes you feel so at peace, we both said last summer how you feel like you never want to leave, the people, the food, the weather, everything is so perfect it is a paradise. I am so happy you’re going, it will be so good for your healing and Thailand is good for the soul! I am planning our next trip and already trying to find a way for just a couple days there. I honestly feel so happy for you that you’re doing this. You’re taking full advantage of your time while Brooke is away and it will make the distance so much more bearable exploring paradise and finding beautiful places you can take her when she is older! Good for you Janae, I don’t know you (although we all feel that we do!!) but I am proud you’re doing something for yourself. I know you will find Thailand a healing place and love your trip and I can’t wait to see lots of pictures. Proud of how far you’ve already come, Sarah xxxxx
Nikki B
Thank you for keeping it real. Good luck to you, getting through this next year and rebuilding your mileage.
Nikki @ will run for pizza
You will LOVE Thailand!!! I was there in 2005 right after the Tsunami. LOVED Bangkok and we were in Khao Lak and Phuket (where the Tsunami destroyed). But the beach was still beautiful and I would move and live there in a heartbeat!!! Their food is to die for too. Just sayin’.
Fiona @ Get Fit Fiona
Monaco was one of the prettiest places I’ve been – the beach was gorgeous!
Naomi M
You are amazing. And I am so excited for you! Please ride an elephant for me?!
My mom is from Japan so we go there to visit family a lot but other than that I’ve been to Mexico, Puerto Rico, South Africa (got to walk with the elephants but not ride!!!), and all over the US :)
Debbie @ Deb Runs
Thailand sounds like so much fun! One of my friends just honeymooned there and they loved it!
emi
THAILAND will be amazing!!!! Can’t wait to more hear about it…when I see you soon. LOVE you!
chelsea @ the new wifestyle
how SUPER exciting that you get to go to Thailand!!!! yay! my husband and i will be venturing to Malaysia in August and are contemplating a trip there too! one of the coolest places we’e recently gone was Russia-talk about different than the USA! happy to hear you are taking care of yourself when it comes to training for marathons-such a powerful point to know when to pull back and what other aspects we need to focus on first. yay you!
Angela @ Happy Fit Mama
You are absolutely making the right decision about dropping to the 1/2. The last thing you need is the added stress of NOT being able to run from an injury. Stay healthy and have the most amazing time in Thailand. My SIL went last year around March and said it was a trip of a lifetime. It’s insanely gorgeous!
Meaghan @ New York Views & Nike Shoes
I’ve totally been there where I think I’m handling it all and training for something and then I realize it is all just too much.
I had a stressful past couple years and I dropped out of two half marathons because of anxiety/stress. I think you are so smart to just take care of yourself and run with your friends if that is what’s making you happy. There are lots of marathons out there and plenty of time to run them. I’ve found that when the time is right you’ll know it! Besides, Thailand sounds amazing!!!!
http://nyviewsnikeshoes.com
Jess
That trip sounds amazing and like just the perfect thing to do while Brooke is away! BTW, that fur vest on her is the cutest thing I’ve seen all week.
Katie
SO awesome!!!!!! You deserve the trip, and you will have the most amazing time!
Kristine
JANAE! I am so so so excited that you get to go to Thailand! Super jealous! I am even more excited that you are now doing the HALF with me! You will rock it! Me, on the other hand have been considering dropping out. :( I am so hard on myself, and really have a specific goal in mind for it, and if I don’t reach it, I know I will beat myself up! I have not been running as much due to some silly injuries and feel really slow lately. Now that you are doing it though, I have much more motivation!
Alison
Janae, you just continue to amaze me. Of course we don’t see everything going on but you seem to be handling everything with such grace, it is really inspiring! Also, I cannot even handle the fabulousness of Brooke in that fur vest. Probably the best thing ever. Keep doing what you feel is right and it will always take you where you are supposed to be! And one of my favorite quotes (I don’t know if she made it up but I heard it from Giuliana Rancic) – “Everything will be ok in the end. If it’s not ok, it’s not the end!”
Kaitlin @4loveofcarrots
I think it’s soo great you are going to Thailand!! You deserve a nice vacation after all you have been through! The best place I have been is Costa Rica!
Courtney
I think that’s a great idea to keep your mind off of Brooke being gone – looks beautiful!
runinboise
Yay for such an awesome trip! I’m happy for you – and a little jelly too! :-)
Emo
Sarah Anna Hughes (not the ice skater) I’m so so so excited for you! I’ve always wanted to go to Thailand. Everytime I see Sarah’s pictures it makes me want to go even more. I can’t wait to read all about it.
Anna
So excited for you to go to Thailand! I think an adventure is in order and I know that you will enjoy it. I have several favorite places that I’ve traveled… all special for different reasons. London will always capture my heart I love the culture, The museums and the people. Right now though – I would love to go back to Hawaii. We lived there for 2 years and it was not enough time. More specifically, I’d love to go back to Kauai or Lanai.
Patty
How exciting to go to Thailand! Coolest place I ever went was Tahiti. A group of nine of us rented a boat and sailed around to three islands. It was a little crazy at times, but I’m glad I did it.
Miranda @ Lovely Wife Lovely Life
“I’m hoping to just break 1:30” OH YEAH JUST BREAK 1:30, you animal ;) Thailand sounds like a once in a lifetime opportunity!! So jealous!
Emmeline @RunForThePizza
Amazing trip! I’ve always wanted to go. I’m hoping to for my 30th in a couple years.
You are amazing for how you’ve dealt with everything and just to be running consistently through all of it is impressive. I’m sure you’ll crush your half :)
Emmeline @RunForThePizza
And the coolest place I’ve been is South Africa ;)
Sarah
I am totally jealous about Thailand! You’re going to have a great time :)
The coolest places I’ve ever been — it’s a toss up between Costa Rica and Iceland. Both were so different (climate and experience wise) that I can’t choose!
Alyssa
I love that you’re doing that for yourself! And how wonderful that you can enjoy that time with your friend. One of my favorite trips ever was to the Greek Isles, Italy, and the southern coast of Spain. I definitely recommend those places to anyone, and I’d love to go back one day!
Abby @ Change of Pace
Super exciting news about Thailand!! I’ve been there twice and am in love with the country. I’ve actually never heard anyone say anything bad about it. Where does your friend live, and where are you going to visit?
Smart about the running. Why not just run now for companionship and training and then train marathon specific when you don’t have so much going on.
I also think so many people focus on the marathon when they can be just as successful at other distances!
Katie @ Bevo Loves an Aggie
That is a great plan! Do something fun for yourself so you don’t just dread the time away! Bonus is a great vacation!
Rebecca
That is so amazing! I want to travel out of the country so much! My husband was in the military and has been to so many amazing places in the world. Someday I will get to see some of them! And it sounds like a good choice to do the half instead of the full. I thought about doing the Phoenix half for my first because it isn’t too bad of a drive but decided I wanted my first one to be local to take some of the jitters away. I am sure you will have another awesome race :)
Heidi
GOOD. FOR. YOU.
Catharsis…….
Mallory
I haven’t read your blog (or any!) in quite a while and it seems that I’ve missed a lot. Sounds like you’ve made a good decision switching to the half marathon. You have to be kind to yourself. I went through a divorce back in 2011 and I also switched from a full to a half because I didn’t have the energy to train. Poor sleep, poor nutrition and crying spells. Anyway, best of luck to you and Brooke. Thailand sounds awesome. Coolest place I’ve ever visited is Moab! We went there last June and had an amazing time at Arches. It was just gorgeous.
Katie
You are being smart with your running right now, good girl! Thanks for opening up to us on how hard things have been for you, we all love you and hope things begin to get a little easier. You are going to have an amazing trip! I’m so excited for you. I think Paris is the coolest place I’ve traveled to. It’s such a cool, hip city.
Laura @ Live, Run Sparkle
OMGGG!! Amazing!! Okay, I went to Thailand last September and it knocked my socks off, seriously you’ll love it. Here are some tips from me to you:
1) Do an elephant trek in Chiang Mai, preferably Patara Elephant Farm because they rescue the elephants and treat them amazingly. This was the best day of my whole life (I exaggerate a lot, but this time I’m not. It was the most amazing day everrr) http://www.pataraelephantfarm.com/ <– check it.
2) Do a Thai cooking class. We did this one below, and it was a really awesome day and you make a TON of food. Like, you have to pack a lot of it up because you couldn't possibly eat it all in one sitting. Plus, they give you a recipe book of the recipes you learned that day and its awesome.
http://www.thaifarmcooking.net/home/#.UtWtzfRDs6w
3) Check out the temples in Bangkok (Reclining Buddha was my fave), but make sure you wear pants or capris and a tshirt covering your shoulders when you go or you won't be allowed in.
I have a hundred other tips, but I don't want to take up your whole comments section. If you want to ask me more, email me anytime and I'll hook you up with ideas. I'm super excited for you if you couldn't tell. :) :) :)
Liana@RunToMunch
I’m very excited for you!! Have fun!! Have a blast! I wish I could return to SEA now!
Amanda
How exciting for you girl!! Travel the world and free your soul :)
misszippy
So awesome, and so well deserved. I am happy you get to get away. I am also super impressed at your decision to back off marathon training and respecting the role that stress plays on your body. Smart move!
Gosia
I just got back from Thailand :)- I found it to be very very hectic but koh phi phi was one of the most beautiful places in the world. Check out elephant sanctuary in chain Mai and you can pick up 5$” Ray bans” in Bangkok! Have fun!!!! Watch out for taxi mafia!
Johanna
YAY, Janae!!!! :) SO happy you’re going to Thailand!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
The coolest place I’ve ever beeen….. IDK! I’ve been to so many cool places!
Katie
I think Thailand is going to be a really great experience for you, especially with the timing! I’m really excited for you :) I’ve never been off of American soil but…. one week from today I’m packing up and moving to LUXEMBOURG! Only for the semester but it’s by the biggest and most exciting thing that’s happened in my life so far and I’m pumped.
Linda @ running4two
This is super exciting! Thailand looks like a beautiful place and it will be so great for you to go and relax and have fun with a long time friend.
Jen
It is reassuring to know that someone else is going through the grieving process similar to me. I broke up with my live-in-boyfriend of 4.5 years (SO NOT the same as a divorce, I know) and for the first few months I think I was in denial / “survival mode” because I was feeling surprisingly OK, staying strong and motivated, and refused to let my brain think about the hard/sad stuff. But now I think it is really hitting me and the past few weeks have been harder and it is starting to feel really unfair that life is throwing me all these lemons. It is weird to feel like you’re backtracking a bit, but I suppose it is all part of the process and ultimately means we’re moving forward :) AND the good news is that it all doesn’t seem so bad after I get back from my run – especially a therapeutic run with friends.
Thanks for posting!
xoxo,
Jen
Kristin @ A Mom on the Run
My husband travels to Thailand for work occasionally and he LOVES it — you are going to have an amazing time!!
Amy
Good for you for knowing your body’s limits. And another GOOD FOR YOU for doing what makes you happy during this hard time. Enjoy your trip, you deserve it!
Um, and Brooke in the fur vest…I just can’t handle the cuteness!! I die!! : D
Kay
I’m sorry to hear that it’s been tough for you this year (and understandably so), but what great news about Thailand!! Visiting someone in another country is the best because they already know all of the logistics and great food!
I’ve been to Japan a ton, but that doesn’t really count for me since I go to visit relatives.. haha
J@ unnaturellerunner
I’m a little ahead of you time wise in the divorce process (actually, it was just finalized last week). Grieving certainly is a long process. During my first few months of my new life, I over-worked out to help myself deal with stress and change. Now, I’m trying to find a good balance. Thailand is quite the journey!! I’m sure it will be amazing and mentally beneficial to you right now. Enjoy every minute of it.
Stavanger, Norway is one of the coolest places I’ve visited. Would LOVE to go back!
Lauren
I went to Thailand 7 years ago and it was amazing. Drink the orange juice. It’s like nothing you’ve ever tasted before, but so so good. Are you going to Bangkok? There are so many pretty temples there to look at. And see “big Buddha” a big gold statue. So fun, can’t wait to hear about your trip.
Lauren
Colorado Gal
Yay, Thailand! I went a few years ago and you’re absolutely going to LOVE IT. Beautiful beaches, yummy food and the people are some of the most friendly I’ve ever met. Good call, lady :)
Annette@FitnessPerks
I love how honest you are!! You will rock any race you run!!
And SO SO cool you’re going to Thailand!! :)
Ashley @ Brocblog
I bet the thai food there is AMAZING
Brittney @ Sweets 'N' Greens
THAILAND is actually the coolest place I have ever been! Great decision to go there :) it is amazing, the food, the culture, everything. You’ll love it!
Megan D
I think you are so smart for dropping to the half. You, your body and your mind will benefit from that decision. And yay for Thailand. I remember meeting S at your baby shower and LOVED hearing her stories and experiences she had while living there thus far. I think Thailand not only would be a fun place to go but having someone that lives there being your tour guide will make you experience so much different that you would get otherwise. I am so so excited for you!
Ummm the western Caribbean cruise that Ross and I went on last year is probably the most tropical/coolest place we have been to. One day we will travel more. We have talked and I think Thailand, China, or India would be our top picks. Maybe I should re-answer your million dollar question from this morning ;)
Lauren
That is so fun that you are going to Thailand! Thailand is high up on my travel wish list! Eat lots of yummy Thai food for all of us! :)
Tate
This might be my favorite post of yours to date. Thank you for opening up a bit and letting your readers/supporters know how you are doing. Divorce is not easy. I applaud you for traveling to Thailand. A trip like that is exactly what your soul needs!
Cee
The coolest place I’ve ever been is Israel. And my boyfriend just got back from Thailand and loved it!
Kristle
That trip sounds like a great idea! I’m sure your friend knows all the great places to go but I have to give a few recommendations! Tiger temple (you can take a tour out of Bangkok) is amazing! You get to see the full grown tigers and you should contact in advance and you can book a spot to play with the babies! They are super playful and you get to feed them a bottle. Also the Patara elephant farm near Chiang Mai is increbile you get to spend the day with your elephant and give them a bath. Then of course long tails to all the amazing beaches from Krabi or Phuket. You will have a blast and excited to read your recaps!
sanaz@runforcake
I could eat this picture of her! So cute!!!
I am over the moon excited for you. THAILAND!!!! How exciting?!I! I think you are going to have an amazing time! :)
Michelle @ 3cheaprunners
This is so amaxing – and that a great way to pre-occupy yourself when you are seperated from Brooke!
Ashten @ Southern class and a bit of Sass
Oh my goodness! Your trip is going to be AMAZING & March is super close! It will be here before you know it!
I am not sure I have been to any super cool places that even compare to your Thailand trip… I have been to some pretty beaches in Mexico but thats about it.
tara @ tara goes streaking
Jealous!!!!!!!! Can’t wait to see the pics!!!!
Coolest place I’ve gone? Paris. Loved it.
Sara U
I am so excited for you!! A little upset that you haven’t told me about this! But you deserve it more than anyone!! Pamper. Pamper. Pamper. Shop. Shop. Shop. Eat & TRAVEL! I love it!
Valorie
I’m doing the half in Phoenix too! I can’t wait to run in warm(er) weather!
I’ve never been as far as Thailand, but I went to Germany when I was a senior in high school. I’d love to travel more now that (I think) I’m old enough to appreciate it.
I hope I see you in 6 weeks!
Linda
That is awesome! Thailand! WOW! I can’t wait up see the pics. I am proud of you for taken time to take care of you. I was a bit worried. I know to respect boundaries. HUGS to you❤️
Suzi
I have been to Thailand and Bali, I absolutely loved both!! You are going to have a wonderful time.
Lisa
I love, Love, LOVE the Phoenix Marathon. I have only done the half and was signed up for the full this year but had to have it deferred due to injury. I signed up for the 10K instead because I really love that event. Maybe I’ll run into you! When I told Heather you were coming into town to run that she asked, “Is she staying with us?” So you are welcome to the spare room if you wish. :)
P. S. Heather still hasn’t heard if she got to BYU or not so our fingers are still crossed!!
Kathy McElhaney
You are really thinking smart, Janae, even during this difficult time. I ran 2 marathons in 2012, my dad passed away in March 2013 and I was doing good to run 3 miles some days. No racing, no stressing over pace, just recovering is what I focused on. I’m now registered for the Honolulu Marathon in December ($26.20 for locals.) I’m mentally ready and have 11 months to get physically ready!
Thailand sounds wonderful! Coolest place I’ve ever been is Italy!
Caroline
AGH! I want Brooke’s outfit (so so adorable) :) Going to Thailand sounds like the perfect idea, and I can’t wait to hear about it. I just got back from Ecuador on Saturday and I had a great time there!
Eugenia Byrne
So HAPPY for you!
My dad is Australian and my mom is Swiss, so I was fortunate enough to spend part of most winters and part of most summers in Australia & Switzerland-both are pretty cool :)
Amanda
Hi Janae – I am actually really happy and relieved that you are doing the Half in March instead of the full. I get worried sometimes that if you put something out there on the blog that you feel obligated to do it – and really all we readers want is for you to succeed and do your best and do what you WANT to do. With NO pressure. I don’t mean to sound stalk-erish but I think that you are some of your readers’ virtual friend and I feel like I want to protect you like one of my “real” friends :)
Finland is the “craziest” place I’ve been.
I am thinking of an adventure for after the Boston Marathon in April – Bali, South Africa or Hawaii. I always book a trip to get me through the training. Congrats on booking Thailand!! Awesome.
Mary @ Run Walk Lift
That is so exciting. Both the trip and sub 1:30 half. I am thinking that I need to not do the half at the end of February unless I don’t care about time. I would like to PR of course, but running a race is just FUN.
I have been contemplating a trip for a year. I really want to go to Disneyland w/o the kids. My husband says that will never fly.
Most beautiful place–North Shore Oahu
Jackie
Great idea!
Betsy
I think it’s fantastic that you’re doing what’s best for you and your body and sticking to the 1/2 marathon. And congrats on the decision to travel to Thailand! I’ve always thought I grew a lot as a person when I traveled alone or with just a few people, I hope you thoroughly enjoy yourself and I can’t wait to hear travel updates.
Lynn
Istanbul!!
Brooke’s cheeks are too much. Squish.
Allison
AWESOME SAUCE! Awesome awesome awesome!
So happy for you. You deserve to take a big and exciting trip!
Brooke@SweetnSweaty
You deserve every bit of that vacation.
It’s true on the 1 year thing, but everyone is different so don’t try to put yourself in any bucket. I went through an extremely stressful divorce and my least favorite thing to do is give advice since nothing really makes it better and I know that! But all you can do is keep living,…one day at a time and before you know it you have a new way of life not a temporary way of life as it may seem right now! What better freaking way to keep living life than to go to Thailand!! Travel is good medicine! It was on my divorce survival plan, and it helped!
Nicole@thegirlwhoraneverywhere
You are SO strong and I am so proud of you. I think all of these choices are great. And Thailand!!! Man that’s cool.
Kendra
Good for you!! I went to Thailand with the hubs when we were living in Taiwan, it was a bucket list item for me and I LOVED it! The Reclining Buddha was a MUST for me and we did it. I loved it there. I’m so excited for you. You can get Brooke a cute little Thai outfit :) Where in Thailand are you going? We couldn’t go up north, it was in conflict ( we barely made our flight back to Taiwan before they shut the airport down) but we went spur of the moment to koh samui ( one of the less popular islands) and spent 4 days in an amazing bungalow for $25 and rode elephants. Oh, I am so excited for you…and now itching to travel again :)
Alexis
I lived in Thailand (Phuket, which is near where that pic was taken, which is Maya Bay in the Phi Phi Islands) for a year and it was the most amazing experience ever!!! I’ve traveled a ton (was a backpacker/wanderer for awhile haha) but I think Malawi and Zambia are the most out of the norm places I’ve been. Favorite place I’ve traveled to though goes, hands down, to New Zealand!!!
Bethany
I have traveled a lot and one of my favorite places is Barcelona, Spain. It is on the water and so beautiful. But it is also and amazing city with great shops, restaurants and architecture. Have an amazing time!
cee
I think it’s awesome that you are doing things for YOU. The coolest place I have ever been was Fiji, minus the 26 hour plane flight. New Zealand and Hawaii are both close seconds.
cee
p.s. what is the fur thing brooke is wearing and do you think an adult could rock one b/c i am totally loving it.
Liz @ Carpe Diem and Run
Have an awesome time!
Mary
I am beyond happy for you; you deserve a fabulous adventure!
The coolest trip I have ever had was to Ethiopia to adopt my beautiful son!
Meg Bowman
You are so strong, and I think the strongest women know their own limits and act on that, which is exactly what you are doing. I admire you so much. And Thailand while Brooke is away? Perfect solution. You’re so good at finding ways to get through this period in a positive way. Sending love always.
MILF Runner
Coolest place I’ve ever been…Mo’orea, an island of French Polynesia.
This is such an awesome plan. Similar to how I handled things last spring, but sort of in reverse ;-) And you are too smart! The downgrade is a brilliant move. You are so right. 26.2 ain’t no joke, no matter how experienced or fast one is. Good move.
I’ll bet you LOVE Thailand.
Kim
I’m running the Phx Marathon too!! You should do a meet up while you’re here! ;)
How exciting to go to Thailand!! I bet it’s going to be so different- I can’t wait to here all about it!!
K
THAT’S SO COOL!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! I wish I could go to Thailand! I’m happy that you’re taking time to relax! You totally deserve it! I just wanted to thank you for making this blog. Although I haven’t been a follower of this blog for a long time, I still want to thank you! Every time I’m tired from school, I always like to read your posts! They always seem to fill me up with new energy! :) The coolest place I’ve went to is Texas! They have amazing tacos and a cool highway system!
Allison @ Life's a Bowl
I know you’re probably sick of hearing it (JOKING, obviously you could never get sick of it!), but Brooke is such a little adorable diva! That vest and her facial expressions are to.die.for! Hooray for spontaneity! A friend from high school has been teaching in Thailand for the past 2 years and LOVES it :D
Annie @ lovelaughrun
Seems like a very smart decision to take care of yourself right now. Also sounds like a trip with your best friend is going to be VERY good for your soul :)
Jennifer
So so happy for you!! No one deserves an amazing getaway more than you.
eep
I don’t even know you and I’m proud of you! That’s a grown up, responsible course of action, and it’s going to pay off in the end. Have fun in Thailand and let your tootsies thaw out!
Sue
Good for you!! On both the 1/2 marathon and Thailand! You’re taking care of yourself with both. Coolest place I’ve traveled to is Australia. I LOVED it!!! It was everything I had hoped for and more. Coolest thing I did there was climb the Sydney Harbour Bridge even though I am terrified of heights. It was very empowering!
Lora @ Crazy Running Girl
My husband and I went to Australia in October and it was amazing!!! I wish I lived there.
Lora @ Crazy Running Girl
So awesome and so excited for you!! I have heard that the pad thai over there is crazy good and CHEAP!! Awesome!!!
Nicole
I am so happy for you Janae! I hope you have an amazing time and are truly able to relax and de-stress.
Erica
I could not be happier for you!
Traveling is simply one of life ‘s great gifts.
Peru, France, Germany, coasta rica all have my heart.
There is always a bedroom here when you need a Brooke’s gone getaway!
meredith @ The Cookie ChRUNicles
You are doing amazing, just remember that, ok? Divorce is awful. Just awful, the whole process stinks and when we have kids thrown in and have to co-parent? Terrible. For everyone. Even though running is my me time, therapy time, feel good time, sometimes it is really hard to focus on the miles and get in the runs we want. Good for you for realizing what you can and can’t handle. So many people would hide under the covers and skip running altogether. Hang in there. I know how hard it is, and believe me, and I still struggle time to time with co-parenting/divorce agreement terms as they pop up, even a few years later.
Brandy
Janae, that is fabulous!!! With everything going on, I really feel like you’re making the most positive decisions to get through it all. I know I’m just some random reader and don’t really KNOW know you, I am actually moving to Hong Kong next month (already signed up for my first trail run there, stoked), which is just a short flight from Thailand… I’ll be in need of friends if you want to check out HK too lol. I know that is such a random proposition. You’re going to have such an amazing time. Thailand is NUMBER ONE on my list to visit after I get settled and have a few days of free time :)
Laura @Losingrace
I dont even know where you start. I’m impressed you are smart enough to step back from marathon training and I know that when you do come back to it, sub 3 is going to be the first thing you do.
As for Thailand, I am soooo jealous! I have always wanted to go (it actually may have started when I saw Brokedown palace), and thai food is my FAVORITE! I could eat it all the time. I hope you have a blast and I think its a great idea to travel while Brooke is gone- allows you to have your own life as well!
Ewa_cn
Where are you going in Thailand? I will be in Bangkok in March as well. I love Thailand in fact going there this Sunday too;-) It’s such a beautiful country with lovely, warm people, great weather and the best food possible. Are you going to stay in Bangkok or perhaps going somewhere more touristy places like Phuket, Krabi, Chiang Mai? I am so excited for you Janae, you really really deserve it!!!
Holly
That is huge for you to be able to both realize and admit that about your training! It will make that first marathon even more special! I am so excited for your trip! Good for you! Enjoy yourself every minute – you’re worth it!
Michelle @ A Healthy Mrs
What an amazing opportunity — I think it’s a great idea to do some travelling when you don’t have Brooke with you! Make the best of a not so great situation while gaining some amazing life experiences? Sounds like a winning plan to me! :)
Natasha
Thailand is beautiful! It will be a great place to relax and take your mind off things.
Run Charly Run
You are a far more smarter woman than I was when I was getting divorced. I did exactly what you said would happen – I ran myself into the ground and got injured within three months. I had to wear a damned boot for ten weeks. It was terrible. But also, like you said, it gets better. WAY better! I’m now about two to three years post divorce, and I now only wish I had done it sooner!
Anyway, Thailand is freaking AMAZING. You are gonna have such a blast eating and shopping and running your way through that place! Maybe bring back some goodies and have a contest for us?? :)
h
I realize divorces are super personal but I can’t help but wonder what happened. Do you think you’ll ever feel comfortable sharing a few details about what happened? Or about how the custody thing is going to work out?
The Hungry Runner Girl
I probably will eventually talk more about custody but as far as the reason for the divorce… I will not talk about it online because I do not want Brooke to be able to ‘google it’ when she is a little bit older. When she is old enough I will talk to her personally. Thank you so much for your comment!
Kristina @ Damn Ten Pounds
Thailand is the coolest place I’ve ever been! I was so excited when I saw this pop up in my feed. It’s such a special place and there is so much to do and see. We spent 2 weeks there, mostly near the beaches, but I’m dying to visit Chiang Mai and spend more time in Bangkok. The culture, food and people are just amazing. It’s seriously a magical place and I’m happy that you get to experience it. You deserve it :)
Oh, and two words: avocado ice cream (ok, that’s 3) = HEAVEN!
Kristine
Sooo that last picture you posted of Thailand is Maya Bay (where they were in the movie “The Beach”) and it’s GORGEOUS! While you’re there do a day trip out to the Phi Phi Islands and you’ll stop in Maya Bay, James Bond Island, and a bunch of others. It’s breathtaking. Also drink as many coconuts as you possibly can. They’re AMAZING and nothing like the coconut water we have here! We did Singapore, Bali, Phuket (Northern – much more relaxing, much less of anything party related!), and Railay Bay – best trip of my life. Running on the beach took on a whole new meaning.
Becky @ Ok, so here's the plan
I want to go to Thailand!
I think the coolest place I’ve been is Ireland, I really want to go back!
Brandy
I smile when I read your blog! Even in tough times, God is using you! Keep up the positive attitude!
Megan @ Meg Go Run
GREAT DECISION TO TRAVEL! :) Coolest place… San Fran !
Susan
GOOD….FOR….YOU! I am so very happy you are going to take this trip and do something super fabulous for yourself. Thailand is on my bucket list. So far, best trip we have taken was Costa Rica. We go to Panama next month for my b-day and I am hoping that is even better!!
Ashley @ Saving Money in your Twenties
That’s so awesome!!! You gotta do what makes you happy :)
Marissa @ Run Riss Run
OMG, that is going to be way too cool of a trip!! And how smart of you to realize what your boundaries are. Keep at it girly!
Kristi
It sounds like you are making the right decisions for you, and that’s the most important part. making sure that you and Brooke are happy. You’ll find normalcy in your life again, and then you can get back to training like the beast that you are :)
Susan
That’s awesome you’re going to Thailand ! I went last march for two weeks!
It’s an incredible place and I’m sure you will love it!
Sara @ LovingOnTheRun
That is so so so awesome! You are going to have a blast! I think you made a good decision about dropping down to the half! It’s better to make sure your body is ready.
Hannah V.
What part of Thailand are you going to? I went to Phuket on my honeymoon and it is beautiful and absolutely amazing!
Stefi
That’s so cool! I am going to Thailand in May and seriously can’t wait! Post lots of good recommendations!
Anne @ CandyCrazedrun.wordpress.com
Oh. My. Gosh!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Get it girl, that is all I can say! If you CAN go to Thialand, why the heck not! There are so many places to go in the world and so many experiences to have, why not take every single solitary opportunity you can!
I cannot wait to hear about your experience!!!!
MK
It’s so refreshing to read your blog because you’re so honest and rational. It’s really inspiring to see someone making decisions that honor their mental and physical health. So excited for you to go to Thailand, and I can’t wait to read about it!!
Christine
Holy bananas! Thailand is going to be so amazing. Jealous but so happy for you!!!
Livi
Greece was my favorite place everrrrrr- so beautiful, interesting, and fun!
KJ
I’m a well-traveled girl for my 26 years (a few countries and 33 states in the US!) , but the coolest place I have ever been is definitely Sedona, AZ. I was only able to spend a day there while traveling to Phoenix. I just felt so at peace, and the sunrise over those red rocks was priceless. I hope to go back for a few days one of these days.
I’m sorry you are having such a rough year. I’ve had a lousy one as well (for other reasons) but reading your blog has inspired me to continue making fitness my escape. Thank you.
Holly
I’m so excited for you Janae!! I know that it will be a really hard time when you leave & Brooke leaves, but I think you are doing the right thing. At least getting your mind off of the time you will not be together. OF COURSE you could never get your mind off of Brooke, but at least you will have distractions.
I have heard Thailand is gorgeous and I cannot wait to live vicariously through you & your pictures.