January's list of fabulous things.

After an extremely busy festive season and an even busier year, one with many ups and downs, Mr B and I decided it was time to get away for some much needed rest and relaxation. Here is a list of fabulous things I have discovered or experienced over the past month or so and I hope you enjoy reading about them.

Having a much needed break.

              I don't drink alcohol very often, however I do when on holidays. 

                                       Drinks and canapés on the deck. 

We went to Byron Bay again, as it is one of our favourite holiday 

destinations in Australia.

Beer and olives on a hot summer's evening was delectable. 

Spending time in nature.

We stayed in a lovely resort (The Byron at Byron Resort & Spa) which is surrounded by a lush rainforest and is also close to a long stretch of beautiful beaches.  Going for walks within and around the resort’s grounds was delightful, while also being extremely restorative.

   Eating delicious foods you wouldn't normally prepare at home.

The food at the resort was sublime.   

                                                Annual trips to a spa.

I love visiting reputable beauty salons or hamams and am a big fan of massage, facials and pedicures.  I don’t have them very often, just once or twice a year but LOVED the spa at the resort.  I had a pedicure, but always ask for no cuticle work – I have a phobia of it!

                                             My new favourite ballet flats.

After nearly falling off my chair when I noticed the price of these in a few Australian department stores, I decided to start saving and then became very excited when I found them half the price on the internet.  Although there was an interim period of requiring plasters, these shoes and I are now friends.  I LOVE THEM.

                                   Getting back on track post Christmas.

I am not sure about you, but I ate an insane amount of delicious but not so good for me food at Christmas (which is what life is about I suppose) but am now feeling the effects.  Therefore I am enjoying the following items a bit more during the month of January

                                                  Love this drink a lot.

I have been experimenting with Sauerkraut for a couple of years now but each time I try to prepare it at home ends in disaster.  Therefore I am going to try one last time and have purchased some from my favourite place on earth via the wonders of the Northey Street Organic Farmer's Markets.  I am not sure if this sauerkraut is right for everyone, including myself, but will give it one last go.

                                                               Dukkah

I am going to try and use this traditional Egyptian spice/nut blend a bit more in my cooking.  It is delicious with so many foods, especially fish or bread.  It contains hazelnuts, sesame seeds, coriander and cumin seeds as well as rock salt and pepper.  Delicious.

Happy Films

It was my turn to choose a film and even Mr B enjoyed it.

I highly recommend Paris - Manhattan.

Soothing Music

Are you enjoying the music from Nigella's new cooking series? 

I found this link to a website which explains where you can get some of the music from.  Click here to read.

As a result I am really enjoying the following album.

Click here to listen.

I particularly like track 11 - Gabriela.

Have a good week.

Fifi x

Images 11 & 12