For their annual "Christmas party", my boyfriends family business went camping this year so we were lucky enough to head out to Belmont Pines Lakeside Holiday Park. In the past, camping has always been a trip with friends full of shenanigans and non-stop craziness. However, this trip was a little more civilized - we had real meals, proper equipment, and a true outdoors experience. 

Load up the truck and lets hit the road! A weekend spent au naturale with the bare minimum (and whatever extras I can fit in the boot!) Luckily I'm not high maintenance so I'm okay with camping and being in the woods but I actually don't have much experience with it; growing up a true west coast Canadian though, I'm all in for roughing it for a few days! The weekend should be adventure filled with fishing, swimming, campfires, and hot dogs! Since I'm a rookie, I thought I would break it down before I pack so here you go...the essentials of camping: 

Get outside. Get active. 
Thank you Jess for taking me on adventures around Newcastle! Love me some afternoon adventures and a sit down for some iced coffee. PS the iced coffee here comes with ice cream and whipped cream! How crazy is that?

In the mail today, I received a letter from my good friend Malcolm back home. He is one of the best people I know; so talented, caring, unique, and funny. If anyone in the world could do it all, it's him! He is definitely an old soul and quite possibly the last person in the world who still writes handwritten letters. Its the simple things like that that make all the difference in the world. The other day, I went for a nature walk just to observe the scenery in my new town. I brought my camera and tried to capture some of the natural beauty of life. Society today takes so many things for granted. The fact that I can breathe clean air, smell fresh flowers, listen to the crash of ocean waves, and the chirping of wildlife is amazing. 
It is ironic that I started blogging when I don't believe in using technology for everything, but on a day-to-day basis I make sure to get outside and bring it back to the basics. Whether it be a simple conversation face to face, a classic sunset, a walk in the park, a good cup of tea, or a beach fire and guitar; nowadays, people focus on their grande, non fat, double mocha blended frappuccino, their extravagant social events, or a constant texting conversation. Not saying that it is wrong to move forward with the times, but I think it is crucial to be unplugged every now and again. Why be concerned with anything that doesn't allow you to be present in the moment?

Had the best week with familiar faces from home! My cousin Vianna and her boyfriend came for a visit last Wednesday so I've been busy showing them around town. They were only here for a quick pitstop before heading up to Gold Coast but we definitely were able to share some laughs while they were here. Highlight of their visit was making our lamb roast dinner! Never been so proud. 
Friday morning was spent sending them off and welcoming another friend from home. Jenn also came for a visit and we have been keeping busy adventuring all around town. Went up to Mt. Tomaree for a hike, toured a few beaches, danced Saturday night away, and hosted our first BBQ on the patio. 
Highlight - rode my first wave (laying down) but I was on a surfboard so it counts!