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

The Best Years of Your Life.

During your time at University it's so easy to get caught up in the whirlwind of deadlines, homework, exams, schedules and teenage drama, but you have to take a step back and realise that these are the best years of your life. University may seem stressful because you constantly worry about failing classes or not succeeding but if you can't manage your stress now, you're going to struggle later in life! You may not notice it, but right now you are stress free with no serious responsibilities, doing what you love, surrounded by thousands of people your age.

Sometimes I find myself getting into a stagnate routine; class in the morning, practice all afternoon, homework, bed...repeat. However, I'll always  stop myself an think, life is fucking good. I know everyone has they're problems and upsets but I think our generation often forgets to view the bigger picture. It may seem so cliche, but you have to appreciate that you have a roof over your head, access to clean water, clothes to wear and a huge support network of friends and family, whether you realise it or not. For those reasons it kills me hearing stupid, pathetic complaints about the smallest, most irrelevant things. I'm so grateful for the position I'm in and the environment I'm surrounded by and you should be too.

It may suck that you have student loans, tight budgets and have to pay for ridiculous textbooks, but embrace it. Enjoy the fact that you're not paying mortgages, insurance, utilities, school fees and bank bills. I guarantee the day that you are finally earning the money to go buy all the clothes you want, you'll be buying them for your kids or paying off debt.

Whether you're at university, college, taking a gap year or working from home...be grateful and appreciate the best years of your life. Right now, I'm surrounded by thousands of students, endless opportunities and activities. Make smart decisions and get involved, but never live with regrets. Enjoy your college years, go to the parties, make new friends, achieve the most you can and get your priorities right. You won't get this ever chance again! Absorb every second of it.

Currently, I'm in a position where I can play field hockey every single day and share the experience with 22 similar minded girls. You may not recognise it but you are in control of your life right now. You get to choose your classes, adjust your schedule to meet your needs and no one can tell you what to do. You have the control of whether you want to work to 100% of your ability or not give a sh*t. Once you're done with college you won't have those choices. It's likely you'll be under the control of a boss and you'll get no choice in what time you start or what you do. The grass isn't greener on the other side...*after college*. All I'm trying to encourage is that you recognise how lucky you are and that these 3-5 years will be the best of your life.

Yes, of course earning a good salary, getting married, buying a house and having kids will be amazing too, but I watch too many of my peers waste their chances at university because they're too narrow minded to be grateful for what they have.

So please, love your life...because it is f***ing great.

Even if it doesn't feel it right now.

Ciao,

Hannah x

August Favorites

Now August is over and I'm back into the full swing of classes and practice, it's time for a blogpost about my August Favorites.

Before I list you my favorite things of the month, here's a quick update on my second year in America so far! I'm currently sitting on a bus (story of my life) heading to our fourth game of the season vs Boston College. So far hockey has been going really well, we are learning so much as a team and growing everyday. Practice is still very testing for me in the 30 degree heat, but I'm not complaining. I heard England is pretty chilly right now...

Classes are going well so far. I mean, it's been one week...but still... My schedule is very relaxed this semester so I can focus on hockey whilst hopefully improving on my GPA! Posittve, positive, positive, right?!

Anyway, here are my August Favorites.

First up is my Macbook Pro. I bought my Mac back in March and it has honestly been a great purchase. My old laptop was an HP. I was always hesitant of making the move to Apple software but it has been well worth it. The speed and quality of my Mac never lets me down, it's much more portable than my old laptop and overall way better!

Secondly, I have to include my favorite YouTube channel, the SacconeJolys. Now if you spend a lot of time with me you'll be well aware that everyday I watch 'vlogs' on YouTube. If you're not familiar with 'vlogs', they are 'video blogs' of a person or family daily life. The SacconeJolys are an Irish family living in London who run a very successful YouTube channel where they post vlog episodes daily. They have two children and 6 maltese dogs! It is basically reality television and I have to admit it's my guilty pleasure. I've been watching their episodes for a few months now and it's crazy how much their children have grown and developed. It's what I watch when I'm just chilling in bed, I view it as more of a TV show than a vlog. I would encourage you to take a look, I'm hooked! It's so refreshing following them as I think everyone can relate to their situations and  family dramas, they are very open about their parenting. If you want to watch some light hearted, fun family footage, (also if you love babies and dogs haha) this is my suggestion.

With pre season feeling like years ago and season well under way, I have to say I'm loving my new hockey equipment. I'm playing with a Dita stick this season, a first for me. I was always a dedicated Grays player but enjoyed my Adidas stick last year and the Dita isn't causing any complaints yet! However, I am loving my new Adidas Astro-turfs! I've always found Adidas shoes very comfortable and they just work well for me. The only criticism I have of the Adidas turfs is that after 3 pairs, they all seem to split in the same part along the soul. This could be due to my feet and how I plant my foot when I run/change direction.  Even so, they last me a season and I couldn't fault them in any other way!

Finally, last but not least is my BIG JAMBOX. I absolutely love it. I got extremely lucky as I came across it in an electronic pawn shop in my hometown. I got it for an absolute bargain and it's in great condition. I've always wanted a high quality bluetooth speaker and the JamBox is perfect. It connects extremely easily to multiple devices and has some useful features, You can update it online and it provides warnings of battery level. Furthermore, the battery life is very efficient and lasts a long time. Also, when it does need charged, a full charge only takes under an hour. The quality of sound is perfect, it sounds great in my dorm and in the locker room! It definitely hits a high volume however, at full blast some quality is lost on the last notch! I'm taking it to our away game today as it's very portable and not heavy at all. Great purchase :)

That's all for now!

I have a few fun blogposts planned such as 'Why College is the Best Years of your Life' and a post about my new pet mice, Pebbles and Piglet.

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

Back Across the Pond.

Well, here we go again.

It seems only yesterday that I arrived in Massachusetts, full of nerves and anticipation, ready to start my first year. Looking back, Freshman year was such a whirlwind. The first semester and hockey season flew by and before I knew it, I was flying home for summer.

Summer 2014 was one of the best summers I've ever had. I feel like I say that every summer, but that can't be bad thing! The best part about this summer was that I spent so much time with friends and family. I'm so happy that I got to visit lots of old friends from school and hockey. I think it's so important to keep in contact with people who have been a big part of your life, never forget where it all started! I was also fortunate enough to have travelled a lot this summer, which was amazing! We went to Oslo, then France and Spain. Obviously I can't forget our special trip to Glasgow for the Commonwealth Games. My previous blogpost is about our time at Glasgow if you want to check it out. Overall summer was a lot of fun, full of happy times and great memories. Thank you to everyone who I spent time with and made summer special, you know who you are :) I miss you all so much already.

Here are some photos from summer:

My flight back to America was lovely and smooth, I even arrived early! I did think I'd won the jackpot when they closed the plane doors and I had 3 seats to myself. This was then shattered when an old couple decided to move to my row because there was a crying child near their original seats. Not so lucky after all...

I'm so excited for my second year to start. I can't believe I'm a Sophomore already! We will all meet tomorrow, move in and then Pre-Season starts on Wednesday, ice baths here we come! I'm really looking forward to being back with the team, playing hockey again and enjoying every second of my time at UMass.

Here's to another amazing year at the Zoo!

Roll UMass!

Ciao,

Hannah x

XX Commonwealth Games.

We are currently right in the middle of the 20th Commonwealth Games, hosted in Glasgow, Scotland. I love watching any sporting major but this one was particularly special for the Farrell Family Household! Early in the summer my brother, Tom Farrell, was selected to run for England in the 5000m race on the 27th July, so we have been eagerly awaiting the Commonwealth Games!

Many of you will know that we are quite a sporty family, with my Dad being a 3.44.78 1500m runner and my Mum a 1.86m high jumper. I'm currently playing hockey in America for the University of Massachusetts and hope to continue my hockey career after university and maybe one day achieve an international selection.

Flashback!

In 1986 my Mum was selected to compete for England and travelled up to sunny Scotland to jump at the Edinburgh Commonwealth Games, now, 28 years later my brother also found himself travelling up north to Scotland for his first Commonwealth Games too! Back in '86 my Mum, Jenn Farrell, placed 8th in the high jump, a very successful performance. Therefore, the ongoing joke was that Tom had to try and beat Mum's position of 8th place...

Tom has had a summer of successful races leading up to the Games including the British Championships and the Oslo and Glasgow Diamond Leagues. He also spent the majority of his time training up at altitude in various places such as Utah, Kenya and Font Romeau, in order to maximise his training. Tom flew back from altitude a few days before his race in Glasgow and was then dropped off at the athletes village to prepare for his race on Sunday.

The night before Tom's race felt like Christmas Eve. We were all filled with excitement, nerves and anticipation! My parents, Gran and I left home at 7am on Sunday as we had tickets for the morning hockey session. The hockey was great, despite a bit of drizzly rain! We watched Australia beat Scotland 9-0 and then England beat Maylasia 5-0. Even though the hockey was world class, I couldn't help thinking about Tom's race later on in the day.

When we reached the athletics stadium at Hampden Park, we were greeted with lots of family and friends who had made the journey up to Glasgow to support Tom. Thank you to everyone who bought tickets, it was great to share the experience with family and friends in the stadium! We were all equipped with loud voices, England flags and 'TOM FARRELL" t-shirts, looking like the ultimate fan club! I can't decided whether I was more nervous or excited, but either way it was an overwhelming experience. I can't imagine how Tom felt stepping out on to the track in front of 45,000 people. The atmosphere was electric from start to finish.

Tom ran an amazing race, finishing 7th and running the 3rd fastest time of his career, 13.23.96 for 5k. Tom stayed with the leading pack for the race and executed a great championship run. After following injury disappointment before the London 2012 Olympics, this was Tom's first senior Championships and his experience was extremely successful. Most importantly, he managed to beat Mum's Commonwealth achievement of 8th place! However, there's no time to celebrate yet because he has jetted off back up to France to get some more altitude training in before the Europeans in Zurich.

Our time at the Commonwealth's was short but sweet, but truly unforgettable! Glasgow has done a fantastic job at hosting the games so far, apart from large crowds making transport very busy, our experience was great. The officials at both the hockey and the athletics were extremely friendly and helpful. Let's hope the success continues for Team England!

That's all from me, time to get my hands on some England kit! Thanks bro!

Here our some pictures from our time at the Commonwealth Games.

 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