Adelaide HaynesLeave a comment

These Are A Few Of My Favourite Things: AUGUST 2020

Well see ya later August and hello Springtime! What an interesting month August turned out to be. Adjusting to an immense physical and emotional emptiness has been a huge adjustment. But it’s also given me a lot of time and space to think, reflect and dig deep about what’s important to me and why. I think I’ve seen more sunrises this month than I have any other. I’ve probably also drank more than I have any other (hello sober September!) It’s been a bit of a blur but I’m so damn proud I made it through.

Canberra

So I realised it had been an awkward amount of time since I’d seen my (not-so) little brother down in Canberra. So why not make a weekend of it and tag along with your fam and bestie. Why the fuck did I go to Canberra in the middle of winter?! Damn it was freezing. Lucky we had some good food and good beer to keep us occupied. Note to self – Isaac, next time you’re coming to Wollongong!

Hiking and nature vibes

Sometimes you just gotta get out into nature and soak up some damn sunshine! Luckily around Wollongong we are #blessed with some gorgeous hikes. Even better, when you’ve got your Dad and besties with ya, it makes it even more enjoyable. The one i did with my Dad is called Drawing Room Rocks (not far from Berry) and the other is the Wodi Wodi track (just down from Stanwell Park). They both have amazing vistas of the ocean and surrounding valleys. Top it off with a coffee and feed at a cool lil cafe and you’ve got my heart!

Playing touch

It’s touch season! I somehow got roped into/volunteered myself to get involved in playing on a mixed touch team this season. Gosh I forgot how much I love team sports. I’ve played a few games to date and I haven’t had a panic attack (#winning). I’m getting better and more confident with each game, and it’s so great to get out and about with a bunch of awesome people. Ticks the social box and get physical box which is a win win for me! Go Illawarriors!

Palmerston (NT) - Touch Football Australia

Flicks

Why Women Kill
Lucy Liu, need I say more?! This show is epic! It’s a slow burn that tells the stories of three different women across three different decades, connected by the house they all lived in at their respective time. Following the 50s, 80s and teens (guys what are we calling 2010-2019?!), this show unpicks some incredible storylines and develops the characters beautifully. It’s a dark comedy (don’t worry – not slashy at all) and the storylines just hook you in where you have to keep watching to find out how it all plays out. You can watch Season 1 on SBS On Demand.

Salisbury Poisonings
Did the world just somehow forget that the most toxic substance on earth was loose in an English town in 2018?! Damn, this show is epic! With only 4 episodes, you’ll easily smash it out over a weekend. I remember when this happened and was it felt like a real life spy show was unfolding in front of our eyes. Watching this show and they way they recount what happened is so intelligent and gripping. It’s also funny how ‘normal’ it all looks after our response to COVID-19. In 2018, full body hazmat suits, masks and public health, really wasn’t widely talked about. Wow – watch it on SBS On Demand.

Books

The Dictionary of Lost Words, by Pip Williams
I absolutely adored this book. Set in the late 1800’s early 1900’s, it tells the story of a young girl who grows up on in the shed they compile the first Oxford English dictionary. It’s so fascinating to be transported back in time and think about how people communicated, what words meant, and how exclusionary they were/are. If you love a book about an underdog, love, curiosity and words, then you will love this book.

The Dictionary of Lost Words | BIG W

Gifts of Imperfection, by Brene Brown
Ah good old Brene Brown? Where would I be without her wisdom and ability to easily communicate complex concepts? I think I could have highlighted every other page. Honestly it’s jam packed filled with so much great content, wisdom and advice that it’s almost too much to soak in at once. It’s certainly a book I’ll be referring back to often. Thank you Tish for the recommendation. If you’re looking for how to dig in deep and confront your feelings (rather than hiding from them like I tend to do), then this book is for you.

The Gifts of Imperfection – Bethel Store

Tunes

The Killers
Do you ever have those moments where you literally forget a band exists? And then, out of the blue, one of their bangers comes on and a whirlwind of goodness just flashes right back to you? That’s what happened the other day when Glamorous Indie Rock and Roll came on and wow I was TRANSPORTED! So my recommendation is to go back 10 years ago and listen to those albums that you used to lose your mind to. Another reminder why music is good for the soul.

Podcasts

The Cut
The Cut is back baby! Hallelujah! This was one of my FAVOURITE podcasts last year and then they, well, cut it. I’m so glad they came to their senses and decided to revamp it. Two episodes in and I’m loving the new host, the topics they’re covering are awesome and – ah I’m just really excited that this podcast is back in my life!

The Cut Returns With a New Weekly Podcast

Product

Hawaiian tropic
This product smells AMAZING!!! Honestly their sunscreen makes you want to put it everywhere at all times, because after all, sun safety is sexy. Plus, if like me you’re basically incapable of tanning, be sure to pick up their gradual tan lotion too. It feels so good on your skin and again, smells amazing! Anything that promotes protecting your skin, hydrating it and getting your tan from a can (or a bottle), then I’m about it!

Buy Silk Hydration Lotion SPF50+ 180 mL by Hawaiian Tropic Online | Priceline

Well August, what a ride. I’m very much looking forward to September and taking it easy. I’m looking forward to taking a step back from drinking and challenging myself to set new goals and kick them too!

Adelaide Haynes2 Comments

Port Stephens: The most magical place on earth

There’s few places on earth I would refer to as truly magical. The South of Iceland, the mountains of Guatemala, the South West coast of Australia, the turquoise waters of Belize… they’re all pretty magical. But one place that I was lucky enough to grow up in, and somewhat call home to this day, is Port Stephens… and let me tell you, it’s pretty damn magical.

Located three hours north of Sydney, this peninsula is the perfect destination for your next weekend away. Here’s some reasons to add it to your next weekend getaway!

Summit Mount Tomaree

Hands down one of the best views I’ve ever encountered. At the end of Shoal Bay beach is this great little hike that is sure to get your blood pumping. The reward is totally worth the sweat, plus your Insta game will be poppin! Top it off by running down via the World War Two gun emplacements and going for a quick dip on Shoal Bay beach #thedream

Murray’s Brewery

If you’re looking for a place to spend a sun soaked afternoon, while discovering some of the tastiest beers you’ll come across, then look no further than Murray’s. Most weekends they have live music and their pizza’s are an absolute must! My go to is either the Angry Man or Whale Ale.

Little Nel’s

If you’re looking for an epic place for brunch, then look no further. The coffee is superb and their menu instantly induces saliva. Be sure to get in early, it gets pretty busy – and for a good reason!

Spot some wildlife

You are spoiled for choice when it comes to wildlife in Port Stephens. You’ll often spot a koala up a tree and kangaroos on the golf course, but where Port Stephens is really lucky is its sea life. There are over 100 resident dolphins that cruise the calm bays, and in winter there are dozens of whales that grace the coast. You don’t even have to head out on a boat to experience the beauty of these creatures. From a headland or beach, you just might be lucky enough to catch a tale or flipper of some of these beautiful animals.

Bannisters

If you’re looking for a place to spend your afternoon sipping cocktails and snacking on some tasty food, look no further. Complete with a gorgeous pool and elevated in the tree tops, this is the place to take a group of friends and watch the sky change colour as the sun sets. For kick ons, head down to Cheeky Dog for a more relaxed, pub vibe.

Birubi beach

Home to the Southern Hemisphere’s largest moving sand dunes, the 32km beach connects Port Stephens to Newcastle. It’s a stunning place to watch sunrise and pick up a coffee at Crest. There’s some gorgeous rock pools to explore and if you’re adventurous, you can venture into Tin City, across the dunes and even check out the shipwreck. 4WD and a permit are a must!

Country club

After you’ve finished jumping off the jetty, head to the infamous Country Club for a few cold brewskies. After a recent renovation, it’s become a little Coogie Beach Pavillion. It was always a cult favourite of ours in high school, and let me tell you, there’s no where else I’d rather be on Christmas Eve. The CC is certainly where it’s at.

View this post on Instagram

Sit back, relax and stay a while ✨

A post shared by Shoal Bay Country Club (@shoalbaycountryclub) on

Samurai Beach

Who doesn’t love a good nude beach? The suitably named Samurai Beach is certainly one to add to your list. You can get their via 4WD through a pretty hectic track or you can walk along One Mile Beach, climb over some rocks and strip off. With any nude beach, comes the couples in their 50’s who are too confident, but if you can look past that, then you’re in for a good time!

I guess the age old saying is true, sometimes, there really is no place like home.

Adelaide HaynesLeave a comment

These Are A Few Of My Favourite Things: JULY 2019

I was recently reminded that I begin each of these posts with ‘omg where did this month go?’ so, I’ll begin this post in a different way. JULY IS MY FAVOURITE MONTH BECAUSE IT’S MY BIRTHDAY MONTH AND YAY WHAT A GREAT MONTH IT WAS! Excitement much?! But seriously, there’s something extremely exciting about birthdays and officially turning one year older. And for me, that number is now sitting at the ripe old age of 25! Yep! 25! I know that my skin care routine is good enough that I don’t look 25 but yes, 25 years of experiences making me the wise young woman I am! So you know sooner or later there will be a ’25 things I’ve learnt in 25 years’ blog post coming, but for now, here’s a recap on the month of July!

🍷Adelaide

No I’m not talking about myself, I’m talking about the amazing long weekend that Soph and I had in the city of churches, Adelaide, South Australia! There’s nothing like taking a long weekend, and there’s nothing better when that aligns with you 25th birthday, a music festival and prime wine season! For four nights we partied our way around Adelaide and had the best freakin time! If you’re getting itchy feet and feeling like an escape, then I’d strongly recommend getting out there and exploring our own back yard. It’s simply beautiful!

🎉 Birthday shenanigans

When you turn 25, I think you’re entitled to a birthday month right? Well I am super grateful for all of the amazing people who showed up for my 25th birthday bash, drank way too much with me, and stopped by to give me a cuddle, share a dance, take a polaroid picture and eat burgers!

💼 Amazing work environment

July means, mid-year celebrations. I am incredibly lucky to work with such amazing people (who also happen to enjoy lunch and a good time!) Whilst in both of my teams we celebrated the mid-year point in different ways, it’s amazing to be surrounded by strong, driven, motivational, fun, intelligent colleagues who also happen to be wine enthusiasts.

🎵Tunes

Banks
She’s back! YES! Finally! I’m telling you, when she comes to Australia, I will be there with bells and whistles on! I have completely been in love with her music since she started out and yes! This album is life!

Soon by Angie McMahon
Yes! Finally an album from the one and only Angie McMahon! And girl does she have some incredible new music!! Soon is an incredible song and I have listened to it literally on repeat, feeling heartbroken, loved and motivated each time I listen to it! I can’t wait to see her on tour soon!

🎞️Flicks

What If
Wow. Renee Zellweger you evil, beautiful thing! I was absolutely addicted to this show! Public service announcement, don’t watch the first episode late on a Sunday night because you will be distracted all day on Monday and race home early to binge watch as much as you can!

❤️ Product

Sukin rosehip oil
Lucky for me, my girlfriend has an amazing skin care routine and introduced me to this product. I use it every night before bed and feel that my skin has dramatically improved, not as many dots and softer skin. Side note, I absolutely love all Sukin products and I would totally recommend jumping on board!

📷 Vloggers, Blogger and Podders

Johnny Harris
I’ve watched Johnny’s videos as a presenter on Vox borders. Finding his YouTube channel has been amazing! I love his style, I always feel smarter after watching his videos and I love the sense of adventure he has. It’s incredibly infectious and makes me want to book a one way ticket!

📝 Quote

So I guess turning 25 has brought on a little ‘quarter life crisis’ joke that doesn’t seem to be letting up anytime soon. With a huge business trip ahead of me, and definitely feeling the pressure, it’s easy to question and doubt what you’re doing. But as I like to say, if it doesn’t scare you, then you’re not pushing yourself. I’ve got this and each day I’m becoming more of the person I’m meant to be. And in all seriousness, I am wildly capable, I’ve got this and I can absolutely do it.

Well July, you were by far one of my favourite months! For a month that was so jam packed, I feel like I don’t have a lot to show for it compared to other months (um hello where are all my pictures), but I think it’s because it was spent with amazing people, creating amazing memories and just making the most of being alive! Bring on August!

Adelaide Haynes9 Comments

A Romantic Weekend Away in Byron Bay

Byron Bay… the ultimate escape from the stresses of reality. Not only is it a hippies dream but it is simply the dream getaway. Add a dose of romance and Byron suddenly becomes magical. This weekend I was lucky enough to escape reality for a few nights with my boyfriend, Mitch, and we had THE best time. So I thought I’d share a bit of what we got up to, where we ate and where we drank. So Voila! My first ever Romantic Travel Recommendation for BYRON BAY! 

IMG_8737

🚗 Road Trip

Byron is the perfect road trip destination. And it’s not some little road trip, this is the creme de la creme of epic road trips. It’s about 11 hours north of Wollongong so pack your snacks, get the tunes loaded and make sure you’ve got your comfy pants on. We stopped several times for food, water and toilet breaks, but you absolutely MUST stop at the Big Banana in Coffs Harbour. As lame as it is (and yes – it’s extremely lame) it’s absolutely necessary to stop and capture this iconic photo! What a gem!

IMG_2754

🛏️ Airbnb

Nothing says romance like a little cute Airbnb. Mitch absolutely nailed this one. It was in a quiet street not far from the main street. Having your own space really makes it feel like you’re on holidays; couch, TV, kitchen… luxury! As you can see below; there’s plenty of cute and affordable options!

Capture.PNG

👀 See & Do

There’s an abundance of things to see and do in Byron. It’s on the coast with stunning beaches and mountains close by. Though in 3 days we kept pretty busy seeing and doing lots of fabulous things!

🐚 Beach

Who goes to Byron without going to the beach? Despite the wind, we found a sheltered spot at Tallow Beach, and boy was it paradise. The water was still a bit chilly but it didn’t stop us from going for a quick dip and sunbake.

IMG_8655

IMG_8754
View of Tallow beach from the Lighthouse

🌊 Lighthouse 

This iconic lighthouse marks the most Easterly point of Australia and has spectacular views of surrounding beaches and mountains. If you get up early enough, you may be able to find a park towards the top of the hill, otherwise prepare for a bit of a hike. Park at the bottom and make sure you’ve got your active wear on point. We took out coffees up, took some photos and were lucky enough to even see whales! Hands down an absolute must. Plus it’s pretty cute up there.

🐷 The Farm

I had never heard about this place until Mitch insisted we go there. Long story short, it’s a farm (duh) with a beautiful cafe/restaurant/flower store you can dine at where all the produce is locally sourced. The best part is that you can wander around and look at all of the animal! They even have Highland Cows! I repeat… hairy cows!!!! Such a cool and pretty random thing to do. The food and coffee was amazing and overall made for an epic morning out and about.

📚 Book Shop

My brother would kill me if I didn’t put this on my list of places to go in Byron Bay. This book store has so many amazing finds! It’s basically tradition to go there and buy a book. Plus, when you buy a new book, it means you can chill out and read it on the beach, in the park, on the couch… Just make sure you drop by and pick up a book to power that brain of yours.

IMG_8611

🍴 Eat & Drink

Byron Bay has some INCREDIBLE bars, restaurants and cafes. We were only there for 3 days, yet I feel that we definitely discovered some amazing places to eat and drink!

🥐 Top Shop

This place is an absolute MUST! Located at 65 Carlyle St, this corner cafe attracts all types (and their dogs). Their coffee is to die for and their brekky options are delicious! I’d absolutely recommend the mushrooms on toast (the bread is so fresh, crispy and delicious). Plus, make sure to grab a freshly baked croissant before you leave!

🍇 Folk

Located on 399 Ewingsdale Rd, next to the caravan park, is every Veggo and Vegans dream. We stopped here for some lunch and I can honestly say it was one of the tastiest things I’ve eaten! Chilled vibes, healthy and yummy food, what’s not to love?

🍷 St Elmo

This one is definitely for a special, romantic night out. This little tapas bar is located on 22 Fletcher St and is not to be missed. It’s a stunning wine and tapas bar with mouth watering food and probably the best wine I’ve ever had. The low candle lighting, beautiful wine and extraordinary food makes this place extremely special and perfect for date night.

11406435_906158136115823_8668673582040202044_o

🍸 The Bolt Hole 

Looking for a sexy bar for the perfect Espresso Martini? Then look no further than this stunning little bar. Found on 9 Fletcher St, this is perfect for an intimate drink. Great vibes and honestly the BEST ESPRESSO MARTINIS EVER!!!

101-Bolt-Hole-Byron-Bay.jpg

🍝 The Balcony

This is iconic Byron Bay. Honestly, you can’t miss it.  On the corner of Lawson St & Jonson Street, you’ll find the perfect spot for some happy hour beers, to watch the sunset and the world pass by.

🍻 The Northern

One of the most iconic pubs in Byron, and maybe even Australia. You’ll hear the hustle and bustle before you find it on 35-43 Jonson St, and there’s good reason. Great location, great beer, amazing food. If my smile below doesn’t give it away, I was having a pretty damn good time with that beer!

IMG_8643

 

To top it off, Byron Bay really just has this lovely and relaxed atmosphere to it. Which makes a little romantic escape absolutely perfect. Coming back to work after a holiday is hard. But coming back to work after a holiday as amazing as this one is even harder, and I can’t thank Mitch enough for being an ultimate travel companion, beer drinking buddy and freakin amazing human. 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Adelaide Haynes1 Comment

These Are A Few Of My Favourite Things: FEBRUARY 17

Ok, so I get that February’s a weird little month. 28 days, 4 weeks, 672 hours, and damn have they disappeared. My first full month back in Australia and in Wollongong. And it’s been a freakin amazing. Let’s get to it!

Discovery Days

Let’s be honest, I have one of the best jobs on earth! And the best time to work as a student ambassador is definitely the annual Discovery Days. Not only is it a heaps of fun for the kids, but it’s fun overload for us as well. And this year was no exception, pouring rain and sweltering heat… nothing could stop us from having an incredible time. I’m so lucky to work with such an awesome team of inspiring people.

17093962_1592537010761308_1126602057_n.jpg

My Montréal Video

So I FINALLY put together my Montreal video. It took hours of gathering footage, editing and then re editing (because my original upload got muted due to copyright – oops) but it’s finally alive and chillin out there on the internet! I’m so proud of this video. It makes me so freaking happy to watch!

[If you haven’t yet subscribed, click here to subscribe so you don’t miss a thing! I’m nearly at 100 subscribers and I’ll have to do something epically awesome when I reach 100]

Finding a new HOUSE

If anyone knew me during the beginning of the month, they would’ve known how freakin stressed I was looking for a place to live. Khal, Rhys (my two amazing friends) and I were searching for a house to rent in Wollongong and damn is that market competitive. However, this goes to show how far positive thinking can go. I told the universe that I would have a house by Sunday the 5th Feb, and on Friday the 3rd Feb we got a very exciting phone call confirming this!

80s Prom Party

It was one of my beautiful friend’s 21st Birthday party and she decided to have it as an 80’s Prom Theme. OMG. First of all – why can’t I wear puffy pastel dresses around all day every day?! Secondly, damn it was so much fun! It’s always so nice going to a good house party, catching up with people you haven’t seen in forever and meeting new people. The night ended with a swim in the pool, me ripping the petticoat out from under my dress because I could barely breathe, and then crashing in an awesome van for the night. Top night!

Speaking at Orientation Week 

I know I’ve included a few little speech related moments through these posts, but every now and then, you gotta show yourself some love and be proud of what you’ve achieved. I was asked last minute to give a 10 minute presentation of a ‘Uni Survival Guide.’ I had prepared my slides but hadn’t really prepared much else. Yet I was able to get up there, smash out a great speech and speak confidently and calmly. I’m super proud of yet another speech I’ve made at UOW. It was even better when a student approached me afterwards asking me about my degree and uni experience, saying that I inspired her to look into doing exchange. (Awww).

17036069_1592537214094621_189083950_o.jpg

Tunes

Maître Gims. Yep, this whole French major thing has really got my head because now suddenly everything is in French. Regardless of whether you’re into French music, this song is actually freakin awesome!

Benjamin Clementine. I’ve only just discovered this guy and I’ve been listening on repeat. His music is so unique, the piano is enchanting and his vocal range is huge! Plus this video clip is just so stunning, I had to include it in my faves for this month.

Childish Gambino. So somehow last year I lived under a freakin rock and missed his amazing album that came out! Urgh it’s soooooooo good I’ve had this on repeat all month!

Flicks

Call My Agent. Netflix, you’ve done it again. This is a brilliantly dramatic yet light hearted TV show about agents and their crazy actors that they manage. It’s in French and I’ve been opting to have the French subtitles on to work on my French. It’s soooo worth the subtitles though! C’etait magnifique.

La La Land. Ooooh la la I’m in love. Emma Stone has been my ultimate girl crush since Easy A when I could finally relate to an awesome red head on screen being awkward and somewhat cool (at least, that’s what I thought I was). The soundtrack is amazing, it’s simple, beautiful and just so damn lovely to watch. Though I would recommend letting your friends know that it’s a musical before going. I somehow failed to mention that and they weren’t too happy! haha

la-la-dance
Source

YouTubers 

RayaWasHere. I’ve been following Raya as long as I’ve been following Louis, but it’s not until recently that she’s really won me over. I think it was the video below, that really pulled me in. I feel that she has a very genuine and beautiful way of capturing her friendships and connections with people and I’d love to see more content like the one below! You go girl!

A Worldly Addiction.

I’m going to give myself a little plug here but I feel like this month I’ve really produced some great content. One of my favourite videos I’ve ever made is absolutely killing it and it’s received over 1300 views so far! WHAT?! I’ve been feeling super proud of myself and my drive to put myself out there, live life to the fullest and create beautiful moments, so why not do yourself a favour and chuck us a subscribe. If you go to my channel from here make sure to comment “Shameless Plug” on one of my videos. OK let the blog continue as per usual.

Books

I haven’t technically finished it (I kinda got caught up in Season 3 of How To Get Away With Murder ((OMG))! But it’s so so good! ‘I wouldn’t start from here’ by Andrew Mueller is a reflection on his career and experiences as a war and conflict correspondent. I love in each chapter you’re taken somewhere completely different and never quite sure where he’s going with it. From Kosovo, to  Palestine, London to Lichtenstein, it’s a fascinating take on ‘the 21st Century and where it all went wrong.’

9781846271519.jpg
Source

Quote

The quote below has really helped me through this crazy month. It reassures me that if we want something, if we want to be something, then we must accept the change that inevitably comes with growing, learning and evolving. It reminds me to let go of things that are no longer important and embrace the new, the scary and the exciting.

423cafa57c4ca6fd5001bc3f34a3e005.jpg
Source

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Well those 4 weeks just absolutely flew by! March is going to be absolutely hectic. I’m organising another overseas trip (can you guess where?!), uni will hit with it’s full blow, my little sister is turning 21 (HOW?!) and the adventures will continue as always! I hope March treats you well and you treat life even better! xxx