I’m forever inspired by the ocean…she is my medicine and nourishes me on every level of my being. I simply have to step barefoot on her shores and I instantly feel better. She provides my balance in life as a busy mum, business owner and creative director.
My outfits are definitely heavily influenced by my beach lifestyle and love of the ocean – white sands, white wash and every shade of blue you could imagine. I’m so obsessed with this Spell romper, the perfect canvas for layering up and heading out on long beach walks, boat adventures, and pretty much mermaid living. Some healing turquoise is always my favourite accessory to replenish and balance my energy.
I feel so blessed every day I get to create my dreams with my precious husband/photographer and our children, in a space that I love, that continues to inspire me so much.
Some days you just need a little extra sparkle, a little sunshine, and a whole lotta love. I like to think of my physical being as a cup, a love cup. And I like to keep it overflowing, hence why I frequent the beach so much. It’s my sanctuary and always makes me feel amazing no matter what else might be happening in my life. With the silly season coming up, let’s not run on empty and burn out our batteries. Let’s keep nourishing our bodies, refuelling our spirits, and resting our minds so that our love cups can flow abundantly with love and energy.
This precious golden sunset sesh was by far one of my favourites. The sun so warm, the sand so soft, the breeze so gentle, and the energy buzzing with vitality. Feeling ever grateful for these moments.
I’m still on cloud nine after an amazing midweek trip to Sydney, where I was lucky enough to meet a few of my all time favourite designers and inspirational women – Samantha Wills + Elizabeth and Isabella from Spell Designs. It really was a dream come true for me to connect with these lovely ladies and thank them in person for their endless inspiration. I’ve felt incredibly blessed throughout my blogging journey to work with authentic and genuine people, who also happen to design such beautiful jewellery, clothing and accessories.
I’m also incredibly thankful to my husband, Bobby Bense, for supporting me and taking care of our gorgeous children, while I galavant across country. It was a much needed time out for me, a moment of pause to enjoy all that I’ve created and celebrate with like hearted kindred souls.
Here is a little collection of pictures from the events I attended – Samantha Wills Pania Showcase and Spell Designs book launch, and hanging out at QT hotels with the lovely Suzie + Jenna from Turquoise Lane. I also managed to squeeze in a very last minute trip to Bondi just so I could get my feet in the sand ;)
Now I’m back and gearing up for the next adventure to one of my favourite holiday destinations ;)
“Life isn’t about waiting for the storm to pass….It’s about learning to dance in the rain” – Vivian Greene
This quote has never been as relevant as it was for our recent wanderlust adventures to beautiful Thailand. The day we arrived, so did a crazy monsoon. I must say even though I envisioned my time away with never-ending sunshine, it was a wonderful opportunity for both Bobby and I to embrace the uncertainty of life and find gratitude for all the unexpected blessings. It forced us deeper into ourselves, to reflect and discover what we actually love most about holidays is connection. We still had many pockets of sunshine where the rain and wind slipped away momentarily and we made the absolute most out of it.
We ventured to Krabi first, and discovered this stunning region walled with grand size limestone karsts providing a completely majestic and breathtaking backdrop. It’s a rock climbers paradise and feels a little like a scene from Jurassic Park. We stayed at the luxurious Centara Grand Resort with it’s own pristine private beach. Accessible only by boat or a jungle monkey trail from the nearby town, it’s surrounded by giant awe inspiring cliffs, clear turquoise waters and some of the softest sand I’ve ever felt. It’s a completely magical setting that instantly evokes a relaxed, holiday vibe. We enjoyed the privacy and seclusion of the location, whilst just a short boat ride or hike, you can venture out to the bustling markets, cafes and bars of Krabi. We never felt the urge to leave though as the resort had so much to offer. You can literally jump in a kayak straight from the beach and head out and explore the limestone karsts and turquoise lagoons. The whole area is surrounded by the most amazing beaches, abundant with incredible underwater life. You can take a boat tour to the surrounding islands, or head out for some scuba diving or snorkelling. Enjoy sunset dinners on the beach, jungle hikes, or laze by the multi level pool and spa with a cocktail in hand as you watch the immaculate view of the Andaman sea.
I was lucky enough to celebrate my 39th!! birthday here and indulge in one of the best massages I’ve ever had at their divine day spa. I was lulled into a deep trance and quite possibly this moment was one of the most relaxed I’ve ever felt. Later this evening we were then treated to an amazing Teppenyaki dinner, as we were serenaded with live music, a super friendly atmosphere, creating the perfect holiday ambience we were looking for. We were lucky enough to meet so many amazing travellers here, ending the night with one two many cocktails at the very cool Blu bar. One of the best parts about travelling is all the awesome people you meet and wonderful connections you make. No matter how transient these may be, they are a huge highlight of any adventure abroad.
I’m so excited to explore more of Krabi next time I head back to Thailand. More adventure awaits! ;)
With love and gratitude,
Helen xx
Travel Tips :
Rainy season in Thailand is typically from May-November though I’ve been in June and it was sunshine and blue skies with just a light misting so you never know. And it’s still so wonderful even when it is raining :)
When travelling to Krabi or any of the islands by boat, I’d suggest arriving in the daylight hours, so the transfer from car, boat to resort is seamless.
The monkeys here are some the bravest I’ve encountered so watch your stuff, they will take it if you leave it unattended.
If you stay at Centara Grand Resort in Krabi definitely opt for a club room. The extra is well worth all the additional advantages that come with this room type. There is an almost non stop serving of food and drink from the Club lounge and happy hour is so amazing you might not even be able to fit in dinner!
Also make sure you order Strawberry Margaritas here…they are the BEST! ;)
“You are what you love not what loves you” Charlie Kaufman
I remember when those first few sparks ignited within me as my blogging journey began. It feels like a lifetime ago now, but it was just over 2 years ago. I didn’t know I was going to become a blogger, I was simply inspired to create. And so I did. And I loved it! I had let so many hard ideals go about how I was supposed to live my life. I felt an enormous amount of energy and freedom resurface and it opened up the infinite possibilities of life to me once again. So instead of the usual inner judgments, I followed my heart’s desire, and began on this creative journey that is now GypsyLovinLight. Sometimes when you stop thinking about what you are supposed to do, you realise what you actually want to do. Each day I began following my highest joy and excitement. I took all that I had ever learnt and turned it upside down. I looked to my children for inspiration, for the way forward in being, because children truly know how to live and enjoy every single moment of life to the fullest.
I’m still on this path, learning and evolving each day. I’m learning how to circumnavigate my existence from the inside out. How to lead my life with intention, whilst letting go of results, expectation, fear and judgement. I’m letting go of what others may or may not think of me, knowing for 1. it’s none of my business and 2. what matters is who I am, and what I believe about myself. And this will always be determined solely by me.
When we live connected to our souls, we not only draw people to us, we inspire all those around us to do the same. And it feels amazing! It is so much better than the stress and suffering we are capable of causing ourselves each day.
So let’s raise the collective consciousness and bring even more joy and happiness to our lives and those around us. Love builds love, and we are all LOVE.
I’m finally back in Australia after our amazing month long California Summer holiday. I’m so happy to be home, so happy to have created ever lasting memories with my family, and my heart is filled with gratitude for all the incredible adventures we experienced. Every travel experience deepens my soul, widens my eyes, expands my heart, and elevates my whole being, as my imagination gets lost in the wonderment of this breathtaking planet we live on.
There were so many highlights, so many photos which I’ll be sharing and reliving here on my blog over the next few weeks.
These photos were taken on a perfect summer’s day at Natural Bridges State Park in Santa Cruz. For the folks who live here in Santa Cruz, they know it can be hit or miss with beach days. The ominous fog lingers along the coast most mornings, though naturally we took every opportunity to head to the beach, fog or no fog, to get our feet in the sand.
On this absolutely stunning beach day, I was lucky enough to reunite with one of my Melbournian besties and share my love of Santa Cruz with her. We watched the fog roll out to uncover these stunning natural bridge formations, home to a couple of seals and birds. We danced upon the shores as the waves rolled in, soaked up a bunch of glorious sunshine, and spent this magical day connecting as kindred sistars do.
Santa Cruz has always been my second home and holds a very large piece of my heart. It’s not only that my dearest sister Reija, lives here, but the landscape has captivated me since my very first trip here in 1996! I’ve been travelling back and forth for what feels like forever now and each time I discover even more about this amazing place. I love you Santa Cruz! Until next time :)
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