A big, fun list of loves

A few of my favourite products, books, and travel destinations

Hi love

I’m popping into your inbox on a random Thursday (wait, it is Thursday, right?) because it’s been a while and I’m still very much in holiday-mode.

So, I thought I’d veer from my typical, sightly serious and philosophical musings, to something a little more light and fun. 

So with that, I present to you, a whole lot of things I’ve been loving this past year (unsponsored, obvi, cause I’m not that famous) - from places I’ve travelled, novels I’ve read, and all the silly little things (that I probably didn’t need but loved anyway) in between. And if you’re anything like me, I’m sure you’ll find something you love too. 

Most of the travel destinations and experiences are within a stone’s throw from Byron, so especially relevant to locals and people visiting the region - but I’m sure most of you can get amongst the books and products.

TRAVEL

I’m not a full-on gypsy like I used to be, so travel lately has been mostly close to home, but lovely nonetheless. Here are some places I’ve travelled over the last year and what I loved about them. All in my home country, Australia. 

Cambridge Plateau 

There’s a secret Airbnb (which I’m happy to share if you’re interested) that we’ve been frequenting over the past few years with the most majestic sunrises. It’s off-grid-ish and the perfect place for exploring nature or just getting away from the chaos of civilisation. 

Tenterfield 

An ideal cool-weather getaway for Northern Rivers and Brisbane folk, Tenterfield is tucked away a couple of hours west of the coast. It’s very down to earth and the best town to explore in autumn to see the beautiful falling leaves. I just love the novelty of the dry, cold weather after a hot summer at home. 

Byron - Elements 

We went to the Elements resort for a mini honeymoon in June (which is the perfect time of year to visit Byron because it’s not swarming with tourists and the weather is magic). This was the third time we’ve stayed at Elements and I always love it. It’s so easy, comfortable, and indulgent. 

Hobart 

My father in law whisked me away one weekend for a little Hobart adventure. We went to the famous Salamanca markets to browse the cute, crafty stalls and feast on fresh food. I was not expecting the seafood to be so good, and Hobart is oh so chill. I loved the cool air contrasted against the delicious, warm, tasty treats. 

Sunshine Coast - Eumundi, Maleny, Montville

We headed inland on both of our sunny coast adventures, and my one regret was not opting for accommodation with a pool the first time! It was summer and it was bloody hot. I love the Sunshine Coast hinterland though. It’s super friendly, the cafes and shopping options are great (lots of local arts and crafts, as well as the amazing Eumundi markets), and the views around Montville are so majestic. 

If you’re in the area and keen for some movement, Wildfire Fitness in Eumundi boasts a beautiful loft space with a plethora of medicinal movement classes, and my lovely yogi friend Chrissy has a beautiful yoga shala at Shambhala Farm with lots of heart-full events and classes.

NOVELS

Every year I say I’m going to read 12 books and in winter I get lazy so usually end up with 10. I wonder if this year will be the year…But anyway, here are all the novels I read in 2023 and what I thought. 

The other side of beautiful - Kim Lock 

An easy, girlie read about a woman who travels in a van around Australia with her sausage dog. Really sweet read with some lovely descriptions of Aussie landscapes. 

Clarke - Holly Throsby 

My favourite read of 2023, this is just the most beautiful mystery. I fell head over heels with the characters and it’s so heart achingly nostalgic for someone who grew up in the Aussie burbs in the 90s. 

My wild and sleepless nights – Clover Stroud

A delightful reflection on motherhood for any woman who mothers in some way (which is pretty much all of us). 

The truth about her - Jacqueline Maley

A dark-ish mystery about a journalist who is blamed for the suicide of a young influencer after she exposed her for lying about healing herself from a terminal illness. One of the less memorable books of the year for me, but well written with an interesting premise (based on a true story, perhaps?).

Nothing bad ever happens here – Heather Rose

A flowing memoir by a woman who’s had a fascinating life. With lots of reflections on spirituality and motherhood, this one stayed with me for a while. 

One of those mothers – Megan Nicol Reed

A pretty easy read about a few suburban families on holiday together and the drama that ensues. Some interesting twists and turns and a protagonist that initially gets on your nerves but slowly unveils her humanity (the best kind). 

Another life – Kristin Hannah

A sweet story centred around family in a picturesque coastal town. I loved how this book illustrated the ways that we can mother even when we don’t have children of our own. I shed a few tears at the end and always felt warm and fuzzy reading this. 

How to be remembered – Michael Thompson

Ooh this is one of those novels that almost anyone would appreciate. Bit of mystery, bit of love (but not cheesy), gets you in the feels and makes you think. It’s about a boy who, once a year on his birthday, is forgotten by the world. 

Tell no one – Harlan Coben

An old school crime thriller written in the 90s. Un put-downable, it’s everything you’d expect from this genre and time. 

Conversations with friends - Sally Roony 

This was my second attempt at reading this novel as it didn’t grab me the first time. I think my mistake was reading this book after Sally’s novel ‘normal people’, which I read a couple of years ago and adored. I persevered though and was glad for it. Slightly raunchy, the story revolves around a group of unlikely friends and a somehow sweet affair. 

NON-FICTION 

I’ve learned that I rarely make it through a non-fiction book, but I did manage to listen to Atomic Habits by James Clear and You are the Placebo by Joe Dispenza recently on audiobook (Spotify now has lots of audiobooks for subscribers). I found them both so inspiring and definitely a worthwhile listen for anyone interested in health and well-being from a scientific perspective. The huge number of studies and anecdotes were fascinating. I also couldn’t go past Britney’s memoir and, for me, it didn’t disappoint. 

SILLY LITTLE THINGS 

Clothing 

Two brands I’ve been loving lately are Daughters of India and Indigo Luna. Daughters of India make beautiful, flowy, flattering boho dresses that take me from the markets to date night and everything in between - and I get complimented almost every time I wear one. Indigo Luna create beautiful, thoughtful yoga and lounge pieces. 

Body 

I’m not big on body products and usually just make my own, but I recently discovered a brand called Bopo Women and it’s so lovey. Their ethos is all about self-love, the packaging is beautiful, and the ingredients are super clean. 

Oura ring 

I’d been eyeing the Oura smart ring all year and finally bought one in the Black Friday sales after a well-timed writing job that gave me an excuse to jump on board this high-tech, well-being bandwagon. It wasn’t cheap, and there’s a monthly subscription fee, but I will say I think so far it’s been worth it. This little device that sits on my finger day and night tracks everything from sleep to temperature (great for cycle tracking) and it’s given me some wonderful insights into what helps me rest and what stresses my body out. It’s also inspired me to meditate and move. If you’re worried about the EMFs you can turn it onto aeroplane mode and just check out your data at the end of the day. It’s not everyone’s cup of tea (listening to your body and all that) but I can’t help it, I love these ridiculous, modern technology things. 

Wandering folk 

I’m obsessed with both of my picnic blankets from Wandering Folk and consider them to be really great investments. They’re on the more exy side as far as picnic blankets go, but I’ve had one of them for about 7 years, it’s seen a lot of outdoor adventures in all kinds of weather, and it’s still going super strong. I’d definitely recommend them for anyone who loves the outdoors and beautiful things, and they make great gifts too. 

Temple of the sun jewellery  

These boho jewels are so stunning - and I often receive compliments on my ring. They’re made for everyday wear so they’re fairly hardy (mine is beginning to look a little worn but I do give it a pretty hard time). 

EXPERIENCES

Movement 

For movement lately I’ve been loving Bangalow Pilates barre. I go to their off-peak reformer classes and find the instructors lovely and the practices accessible but strengthening. I’ve also loved the teachers and classes at Lennox Yoga, and when I feel like letting my hair down I’m obsessed with the weekly ecstatic dance group in Mullumbimby (Sun Dance on Facebook). It’s proper old school, hippie styles and so blissful. I’m also keen to try House of Vinyasa in Mullum, and there’s a new studio in Byron called Social Remedy that looks super interesting. 

Oh and hey, if you’re ever in Alstonville the sweet little space I teach at, Humane Yoga, is also delightful.

Relaxation 

There’s a new-ish day spa in Mullumbimby called The Banya. I’ve been a handful of times now and it’s so beautiful and indulgent (are you figuring out that I love indulgence yet?). It’s been a wonderful place to go with a friend for long lazy chats, steams, saunas, and the amazing, icy plunge pool. 

Cafes etc. 

My favourite place to eat recently has been the beautiful Lilium cafe - an amazing little space perched atop a hill and surrounded by the mountains of Wilson’s Creek. They’re for sale at the moment so I’m not sure how much longer they’ll be around, but they serve incredible, healthy, nourishing meals (free from seed oils which is a big plus!) and amazing elixirs in a gorgeous, secluded environment (with no phone reception as a bonus). I’ve been there for lots of one on one catch ups as well as a girlie lunch and it’s been so enjoyable every time.

I also love a fancy meal at Harvest in Newrybar - which is a lovely little town to spend half a day wandering (/shopping) and eating. 

Finally, we discovered a place close to home (in Wollongbar) just last night called Bonito. They serve Peruvian food in a gorgeous, bright  little space and the food is healthy, fresh, and just generally to die for. 

Loco love chocolates 

Hands-down my favourite food in the whole world are these delicious, healthy, indulgent chocolates. Everyone loves them. They’re amazing, addictive, and relatively guilt free. I can even get away with one a day when I’m doing my low carb thing. 

And that’s a wrap!

I’ll be back in your inbox in a couple of weeks with more of the women’s whispers series plus everyday whimsical words. 

Until then, sending you lots of love as always.

Jess xxx