50 Facts About Me.

Hey!

I'm currently all snuggled up in bed, candles burning, relaxing before our game tomorrow. I had 2 exams this week so I'm enjoying some free time this weekend. We won our first game of the weekend  yesterday 3-0 and we take on St Francis tomorrow at 1pm. 

Things are very busy with me in America right now. With 2 games every weekend, we are well into the heart of our season and things are really starting to pick up. I'm really excited play Championship games and hopefully maintain our title as A10 Champs! I also can't wait for my parents to come and visit. This year is already flying by! The weather is starting to change here in Massachusetts. It's getting a little colder, the trees are changing colour and I just can't wait for Autumn/Fall! Anyway, I thought I'd do a more personal blog post this week, so here are 50 facts about me! 

Enjoy :)

1. My middle name is Ebony.

2. My star sign is Aries.

3. I'm a Journalism Major.

4. Field Hockey is my passion.

5. I don't have a favourite colour.

6. I have 11 piercings.

7. I love bracelets.

8. I have 2 pet mice.

9. I went to boarding school.

10. I'm at University in America.

11. I got an A* in Drama.

12. Diet Coke, always.

13. My favourite film is Shawshank Redemption.

14. I really dislike mushrooms.

15. Cookie Dough is my favourite ice cream flavour.

16. I secretly love video games. Especially FIFA.

17. I have a smashed iPhone 4.

18. I can ski and snowboard.

19. I want to live in Australia.

20. I having an older brother called Tom.

21. I'm very independent.

22. I like all genres of music. Except country.

23. I can water ski and knee board.

24. I was on the school tennis team.

25. My bed is my favourite place.

26. I mostly hate school and studying.

27. I love puppies.

28. I played Lacrosse for 6 years.

29. I have a tattoo.

30. I bite my nails.

31. Heels are my guilty pleasure.

32. I have 10 cousins.

33. White wine over red wine.

34. I naturally tan well.

35. I wish I liked running.

36. I always read sad books.

37. My family is crazy. But I love it.

38. I've been to over 20 different countries.

39. My Flappy Bird high score is 148.

40. I want to have my own business.

41. I once split my chin open.

42. I love musicals.

43. I'm not a morning person.

44. Iced Vanilla Coffee/Latte is my 'go-to'.

45. I've never had braces.

46. My parents own a nursery school.

47. I've been scuba diving in Australia and South Africa.

48. A fire extinguisher broke my ankle.

49. One of my YouTube videos has 23,500 views. lol.

50. I'm grateful for my supportive family, friends and teammates.

That's all! Let me know if you learned anything new about me!

Keep spreading the love :)

Sometimes the things you are most afraid of are the things that make you the happiest.

Ciao,

Hannah x

Travel The World.

There's nothing better than packing up your suitcase and traveling by car, train, boat or plane. Whether you are exploring somewhere completely new or returning to one of your favorite places, in my eyes, there is nothing more exciting.

Traveling is definitely one of my favorite things to do. I love every part of traveling with both my family or friends. Unlike some people, I really enjoy packing my case up the night before, organizing all my flight essentials and waking up early all excited ready for the drive to the airport. Airports. Oh my god. I love airports. Weird, I know. Most people (especially my Dad) find airports very stressful because of the long lines, making sure your baggage is the right weight and having to go through the hassle of security. I literally love everything about airports, people watching, shopping, getting some food and the general build up to the holiday!

Even though traveling is just really fun because usually you're on vacation and have time to relax I love visiting new places, exploring new cities, tasting local cuisine and embracing different cultures. I'm studying Journalism at University and I hope that one day either my career in writing or sport will enable me to travel the world and continue to visit new countries. In the mean time, here are my 3 favorite places I have ever travelled and 3 places that I have never been but really want to visit.

My Favorite Places...

1. Australia

I've been lucky enough to go to Australia 4 times because my godfather and Dad's best friend lives out there. Ever since we first visited, we all fell in love with the Ozzy lifestyle. I have been to most places along the east coat of Australia because we road tripped from Melbourne to Cairns over 6 weeks. The country is so laid back and relaxed with absolutely stunning cities, breathtaking nature and endless golden sandy beaches. No matter where you go there is always something fun to do and you're always surrounded by super chilled out, friendly people. Australia is definitely somewhere I aspire to live one day. We are going back to Oz this year for Christmas and New Year. I absolutely can't wait to visit our family friends, kick back and relax whilst exploring new places Sydney.

2. South Africa

I spent 2 weeks in South Africa in 2013 to conduct voluntary conservative research in Kruger National Park and then travel to Mozambique to scuba dive and analyze the sea-life in the surrounding oceans. Spending time in South Africa was completely liberating and completely changed my perspective on conservation, poverty and what our real priorities should be. During my time I was honored to see many animals in their natural habitat such as huge elephant herds, hippos, lions, cheetahs, hyenas, zebra, baboons and many more. I also gained my PADI diving qualification and got to dive with the most colorful fish, manta ray and different species of sharks. I definitely want to return to South Africa to Safari and would recommend it to everyone.

3. France

France is a country we used to visit numerous times a year when I was younger. We spent most summers and Christmas' there but recently we haven't been going as often. This summer though, we returned to France and I really enjoyed it. It made me realize that Europe is absolutely stunning and you don't have to go on huge long haul flights to embrace such diverse cultures and beautiful countries. Whilst in France we were able to take a short train ride to Monaco, Monte Carlo. France offers so much from the romantic, upbeat atmosphere in the city of love, Paris to the scenic mountains and vine yards in the South.

Where I Want to Travel Next...

1. India

One part of the world that I haven't ever visited or travelled around is Indonesia. I've been to most of Europe and travelled around both America and Australasia. So I'm really eager to explore countries such as India. There are so many reasons why I'd love to visit India, such as the diverse culture, exquisite cuisine and it's natural beauty. 

2. Thailand

I was never really that interested in visiting Thailand as it's commonly perceived as a dangerous country, ridden in diseases and unhygienic conditions. However, many of my friends have spent their gap years in Thailand and it looks absolutely stunning. Regardless of the horror stories, there are many beautiful parts of Thailand to be explored, away from the polluted streets and rivers. I'm also in love with Thai food, so I'd like to experience the local cuisine myself.

3. Maldives

I can't deny that I would love to spend a few weeks relaxing in the Maldives. I can't think of anything better than kicking back in a cute little hut, suspended above the clear blue sea, in beautiful weather! As much as my Mum and I are dying to visit the Maldives, my Dad isn't so keen as he's convinced it's threatened by tsunamis and tidal waves...... Guess the Maldives can wait until my honey moon then!!!

That's all! Thanks for reading, hope you enjoyed it even though it was a longer post. I would love to get any feed back, so if you enjoy the blog or have any suggestions for the future definitely let me know! 

Ciao,

Hannah x

Get Motivated.

Motivation is key. It's what makes you get up in the morning, better yourself everyday and pushes you to achieve your dreams. Everybody's motivation is different and it's important that you find what drives you in order to help you to succeed.

"If you can dream it, you can do it."

I have my big dreams but I also set myself goals, daily, monthly and annually. What I wish to achieve this week, this year or before I'm 25 is private to me and I rarely discuss my dreams with anyone. My reason for this is that my dreams scare me, because I dream big. However, I believe in myself and what I'm doing. I once read that "if your dreams do not scare you, they are not big enough." I live by that advice and aim to challenge myself as much as I possibly can.

Now it really doesn't matter what your dreams, goals or aims are. It's irrelevant how big or small they are but it is important that you stay focused and use your motivation to achieve exactly what you want, whether it's training harder, studying better, eating healthier, staying positive, completing chores or getting organised. You can do it. Stay committed and push yourself outside of your comfort zone. 

People motivate me. Watching others succeed is why I get up everyday. I admire so many people on this earth, from my family to sports stars or business entrepreneurs. Whatever your motivation is, even if it's a quote, a person, a theory or your religion, remind yourself of it everyday.

"Believe you can, and you're half way there."

Whenever you feel that things aren't going your way or your plan isn't quite working out, change it yourself. Think back to why you're doing what you're doing and use your motivation. You can motivate yourself from within and I urge you to do so and create your own happiness in life! Don't let people or circumstances determine what YOU want to do with YOUR life.

Dream Big.

Ciao,

Hannah x

Be Happy. Stay Healthy.

"Do more of what makes you happy."

Wherever you are, whoever you are and whatever you do, there is nothing more important than being happy. Personally, the little things in life make me happier each day, such as having a good nights sleep or tasting something new for the first time. I love having extra time on my hands in the summer because I can try new things and allocate more personal pampering time. I'm well aware that the luxury of long student holidays won't last forever, so I'm enjoying them whilst I can. Even if you work full time and lead a very busy life there is still time to put yourself first. Here is some advice and tips to help you lead a happy, but healthy lifestyle!

Beneficial Breakfast

Breakfast is the most important meal of the day. Fact. So why not start your day off with something healthy, tasty and fun! I need to listen to my own advice here because I'm a sucker for a bowl of Coco-Pops in the morning, but I can't deny that when I make a more beneficial and nutritious breakfast I feel happier, fresher and healthier. I feel much better about myself when I chop up some bananas and strawberries, throw them in a bowl of yogurt and sprinkle some nuts all over, rather than simply pouring a sugary bowl of cereal.

Check out some more lovely breakfast ideas here -

http://www.bbcgoodfood.com/recipes/collection/healthy-breakfast

Appreciate Alfresco

Get outdoors! This is the easiest thing to do in order to have a healthy lifestyle and you'll reap the benefits instantly. There are no excuses to stay indoors during summer, especially as the weather is beautiful in Britain this year! Ideally, aim to get 30 minutes of outdoor exercise per day such as a walk, run, bike ride, yoga, tennis or go for a swim. There has been a huge increase of outdoor/park gyms in England, that are a great way to get an outdoor workout in, so find the nearest one to you. Even if exercise isn't your thing, there are huge benefits of just getting outside. Just by spending more time outdoors you will improve your Vitamin D levels, your body will learn to heal faster, have higher concentration levels and overall, be happier. So go and embrace Alfresco living!

                                 
   

H20 Hydration

Drink more water! This is something I've been trying really hard to do lately, especially when it's hot. My room is very hot at nights and sometimes I feel very dehydrated. Therefore, I always try and have a couple of ice-cold glasses of water each day. Drinking a cold glass of water in the morning helps to increase your metabolism, which will help decrease the rate of your weight gain. If you are wanting to lose a couple of pounds, try and drink more water throughout the day and especially before meals so you feel fuller. I've been drinking water when I need a boost of energy and I also put a small pinch of salt in my glass to help hydration. Most importantly, water dramatically increases the condition of your skin as it keeps it hydrated and reduces pimples and helps your face to look clear and glowing. 8 glasses a day will keep the Doctor away!

Significant Sleep

There is no doubt that everyone feels better after a good nights sleep. Studies have shown that getting more sleep reduces chances of health problems and risk of injury. Half an hour before going to sleep, turn off you television, phone or laptop and relax, read or write. Let your body wind down properly! Recently, I downloaded and app called 'Sleep Time' which calculates how much sleep you need, wakes you up with a progressive alarm and sends you to sleep with sounds of running water. I love going to sleep to the sound of water and it's much nicer waking up slowly rather to the loud ringing of an alarm.

Fun Fulfilling

Have some fun! Play a game, get crafty, do what you love to do! For example, I started up this blog again purely because I love writing and enjoy being creative. Obviously I would love to have a huge audience reading my blog, but if 50 people are enjoying my posts then that makes it more worthwhile for me. Whether you want to paint a picture, start a blog, write a book, design a product or set up a YouTube channel...just do it! The other day, me and my best friend decided to find our inner child and get artsy again. We designed a small jewellery boxes and a hanging heart decorations for a bit of fun and a good laugh! Try something different instead of sitting in front of the TV every night, get out a board game, get crafty or play outside. I promise that it will make you fell that little bit happier. You don't have to be a child to do what you really enjoy!

My jewellery box and decoration :)

Check out this bracelet website and get creative and maybe make your own -

http://www.evelynselegance.com/

Here are some homemade bracelets that you could make too!

Enjoy the weather and most importantly...be happy and have fun!

"Happiness is not something ready made. It comes from your own actions." - Dalai Lama

Ciao,

Hannah x

A Fresh Start.

Ok, so here goes.

A fresh start.

Here I am over 10 months later finally writing another blog. I can't promise when my next blog will be, all I know is that I want to start writing again. I really would love to build up my blog, so I guess it's time to start putting some effort, consistency and persistence in place! 

“If you want to live a happy life, tie it to a goal, not to people or things.” - Albert Einstein

Over the past few months there have been a number of events that have put life into perspective for me. Certain things have made me realise that life is way too short to sacrifice your happiness. Therefore, I've made the conscious decision to do more of what makes me happy. I strongly encourage you to do the same.

"Live as if you were to die tomorrow. Learn as if you were to live forever." - Mahatma Gandhi

I am feeling very refreshed after returning from a week in Spain with family and friends. We were fortunate enough to stay in a beautiful villa in Puerto Banus, near Marbella. The weather was flawless, we were blessed with wall to wall sunshine all day long. There were so many cafés, restaurants, bars and beach clubs to visit that I am already planning to return next year!

"If you do what you love, it is the best way to relax." - Christian Louboutin

In the forthcoming weeks I plan to spend some quality time with my family and friends before heading back to America. I'm looking forward to the upcoming weeks as there are some exciting things in the pipeline!

"The most important thing is to enjoy your life – to be happy  - it’s all that matters." - Audrey Hepburn

So now I've made the promise to myself to keep up this blog. From now on, I plan to vary the content of my blog posts by exploring new topics and publishing more opinionated discussions. I also want to delve into broader subjects, such as writing about lifestyle, motivation, favourite products, popular trends, celebrities or even animals! 

Who knows!?

Ciao for now,

Hannah