The Year Review

Goodbye 2016 and like many others I'm glad to see the back of it. Personally, it's been the toughest year for me, but I learnt so much from it.

This post is all about the big things that happened month by month, and also an opportunity to address new year's resolutions and advice on how to start the year.

January
This was the month that affected the rest of the year because I quit the job I had just started and hated. I quit without a new job, which was the hardest thing I did; I don't regret it as I felt it was necessary, but not going to go into that negative part too much...

I attended a friend's 30th birthday, and then went go-karting the next day (completely hungover and with little sleep). I've always wanted to go-kart, but haven't. It was so much fun. I went for a friend's birthday. For anyone who hasn't done it, we did a tester part, which I failed and then you compete with friends to come 1st, 2nd and 3rd. I failed as didn't know you could brake, but crashing was fun! (Scary to think I'm learning to drive).

More friend birthday events were attended too.

February
After ending a relationship in the end of 2015, I decided to embrace alone time more. Living by myself and working independently.

I started to enjoy doing independent things such as attending my first gig alone, which was terrifying. I realised friends didn't all have the same interests as me, so I needed to not that stop me doing what I wanted to.

One of my closest friends, Jools had been with her boyfriend for 6 years and he proposed. I was so happy for her solemate to finally do it! I jokingly asked for many years when he'd do it, and he finally did! Jools called me immediately after and asked me to be her Maid of Honour, which I was so happy about. I talked about the joy of being asked to be a bridesmaid in one of my posts this year, but can't seem to find which post it was. If I can, I will update with the post.

March

It was a long month trying to get sorted with jobs and had temporary positions, but money just dried up. I made the hard decision to move away from Dundee, away from friends and move back with parents, who had now moved to the Isle of Wight.

April 
I actually made the plunge at the start of the month and moved back with parents. First, my grandparents who were slightly closer and lived in Yorkshire visited me. They then helped me move my stuff into their car, I stayed at theirs for a few days (that was bizarre being in the small town I once grew up in, and went to school; it had changed a lot, but then was completely the same too). Then we made our way through much more driving and a ferry from Southampton to Isle of Wight.

I also enjoyed taking lots of pictures and discovered I like photography again. Here is a post describing my love for photography.

May
When I was younger (maybe about 5 or 6), we lived with squirrels. Not by choice! They kind of invaded. In May, we discovered we were living with mice. That was fun! We realised when we saw that cous cous had holes in, and when they attempted to get my Dad's peanuts that were kept in a container. For many reasons including this, we hated living in the bungalow. We then made the journey to move to another part of the island. It was good as we moved closer to more shops and just more, more.

June 
While out for a meal to celebrate my Mum's birthday, another friend who proposed to her boyfriend in February asked me to attend her 2018 wedding. Minutes later, I found out my Lisa was the next engaged lady. Her boyfriend of 5 years asked her to marry him, while on holiday. I was over the moon!

July
Lisa asked me and my close friend, Hannah to be one of her bridesmaids. We both received hampers like this:

July was also the month that I started writing this blog. Click here to see the very first post.

August
I started working in a temporary position at Waitrose - working 6.30am to 1.30pm on Saturdays (don't miss those early starts) and 1.15pm to 4.15pm on Sundays (where I rarely finished on time).

I also started working towards improving myself more - attending a six week course of stress workshops,which was great. It taught me things I already knew and new things about sleep, exercise and diet helping to improve stress levels. I recommend this to everyone!

September
I volunteered for a charity called Community Empowerment - helping with bid writing for a few weeks.

I visited my friends in Scotland - travelling to Glasgow, Aberdeen and Dundee. It was a time to meet the other bridesmaids and groomsmen for Jools and Peter's wedding in Glasgow, go shopping, eat out a LOT, quality time with friends and of course attending Lisa's engagement party.

I took a great few pictures, but felt that was hugely personal. Therefore, here is a picture of my subcrawl with Jools and the rest of the groomsmen etc. This is a picture I took with two women who told me that they attended the comic-con that day:

How cool do they look? Shame I look awful!

October
I left Dundee and made my way home at the very start of the month.

For the blog, I took part in Blogtober. Feel free to re-read these posts! I love writing them and expanding my ideas of what to write about.

It was also my 24th birthday, which was unfortunately a bit disappointing - not seeing my friends, not doing anything special but got everything I could possibly ask for.

November

Due to certain circumstances, we needed to move again, so on the 26th November, we moved to Ipswich.

Before leaving the island, I enjoyed volunteering for the local hospice on the island. Helping to promote their Santa Dash event, working on admin tasks for the fundraising team and generally helping where I could.

December
I learnt that there will be more surprises to come in 2017 and lots more to look forward to besides engagements and weddings.

I also took part in Blogmas, where I wrote 12 posts on the lead-up to Christmas and the new year.

I also volunteered at the local Ipswich Hospital charity assisting in wrapping presents and taking presents to the children's ward. It really bought home the spirit of giving during the festive period. I hope I will do it again next year as it was truly the best fun!

Finally, I had the best Christmas I've had as an adult - spending it with parents, getting everything I could ask for and relaxing. Then seeing grandparents a few days after to celebrate all over again!

As I draw to the end of the first 2017 post, I'd like to say a few things about the new year, and advice on making the most of it:

1. Dust
Like the motto: "Tidy house, tidy life" or it goes something like that! I think there is something therapeutic about starting afresh with a more organised and tidy start to your house and life. I have been dusting my room today, as living with parents I can't always control the rest of my surroundings.

2. Sort out things
This is said in a very broad sense. Yesterday started with me tidying drawers which didn't have set places for things. Now I have folders with stationery, financial/important information and medical stuff. Everything has it's place! It was also the first time to find places for things as moving I still feel, not everything has a home just yet!

3. Get rid of crap!
I often find that I do a spring clean in autumn - getting rid of clothes, DVDs, books etc, all the things I don't need or have used. However I've decided I've already accumulated so much rubbish since moving. I suggest you do it at the start of any new year - it's great!

4. Set realistic goals/resolutions
So many people fail at their New Year Resolutions, but I strongly believe it's because they look at it the wrong way. Every year I love to set goals, more like plans for what I wish to do in the new year. I don't get disappointed if I don't do them all as they are mainly ideas of what I would like to achieve over time. Here are some pictures of ones I set in previous years:

2009 New Year Resolutions

2011 New Year Resolutions

I love organising things for the new year.

5. Keep organised
Get a diary or calendar to make sure you don't miss a single appointment or engagement. Organise yourself in any way that might help. With my new planner, I can now budget, keep a to-do list and plan my meals to get healthier.

6. Plan
Make your plans for the year for holidays, career and anything you feel needs improving.

7. Do YOU!
I'm not sure what to add here, as you know what you need to do for yourself - I don't. I want to start looking after myself more - moisturising and exfoliating my body, concentrating on things that matter to me and help achieving goals.

8. Get back to work
Christmas and New Year's Day is now over, so you're either back at work or getting ready to properly start the new year. I wish you well, and hope you all work to achieve what you want both personally and professionally. I'm excited to get to it!

Belated Blogmas - Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!

Hello all! Hope you had a fab Christmas. I honestly thought I'd have time to post something on Christmas Day, but relaxed with family instead. The day was more relaxed as I worked Christmas Eve and Boxing Day. I had croissants with nutella for breakfast, opened presents and loved watching the dogs opening their own presents. It was so funny. Click here to watch my adorable babies opening their toys with treats wrapped up inside too!

My last 11 Blogmas posts have tried to promote positive aspects of Christmas or at least be as humourous as possible. I have tried to stress the importance of giving, but it would be a lie to say I hated getting gifts. I love it. I'm not an alien!

Today's post hopes to share the stuff I received on Christmas Day alongside the stuff I received prior to Christmas on the 23rd and 24th of December, Christmas Day was filled with amazing presents including lovely gifts from my parents and one of my friends. My Mum and Dad bought me an organiser and to do list which I knew about in my wishlist post, lots of nail polish from OPI and Nails Inc, foldaway primark bag, two lovely midi skirts, Lola Rose bracelet, lots of chocolate (again as asked for in wishlist) and Dad bought me and Mum hats from a recent work visit to Belgium.

 I love the slogan - it makes me feel positive for the new year ahead. Also like it as it reminds me of a lovely gift that my friend, Julie got to cheer me up this year.

 I just love doing to-do lists. Even if I don't tick everything off, it makes me feel like I'm doing something. I love the colours of this. Great purchase from Paperchase!

 Fab choice of colours from both Nails Inc and OPI. I love the theme of Audrey Hepburn for my gifts this year! People know me too well... I've already tried one of the nude shades in Nails Inc for my nails and toes and love it.

Who doesn't love having a foldaway bag for when they go shopping?

I also received a burgundy midi skirt. They are both lovely and just my style!

I love burgundy for starters, so think this is perfect! I received a green Lola Rose bracelet from my parents for my birthday in October and fell in love. Anyone who knows me will know my love of jewellery. I used to be much more flamboyant with my choices wearing statement necklaces, large rings (including one ruler style and a huge eye once) and huge earrings. However my long love for bracelets has continued and is the main jewellery I now wear.

I love that Dad bought this back for us. He doesn't often buy things as he hates shopping, but when he does, it is so thoughtful. The lining is so soft and warm. Who thought I'd be excited for more cold?

Then, I opened my present from my close friend, Julie which included an amazing array of gifts including a scratch world map, skirt and scramble photo frame:

I love how two friends got me travel related gifts. I love hearing about travelling, seeing new places and having an adventure. I don't want to get older and regret not seeing places. Unfortunately due to different circumstances haven't done the last two years, but who knows 2017 might be the year!? I certainly hope to see more of the UK if nothing else...

I love this mini skirt. Recently after visiting Glasgow, and shopping together, we both bought the same skirt. I guess she must have another one which is a cute tradition! Might need to buy her the next matching skirt...

I love this truly personalised gift! I can't wait to find the perfect picture to fill it with.

My friends did well for gift buying this year, not that you're friends with people for their talents in buying the best pressies, but it doesn't hurt!

After Boxing Day, my grandparents visited and left yesterday. They got me some lovely gifts and ticked off some more amazing things from my wishlist including the Audrey Hepburn biography I'd been wanting, Liz Earle beauty items, my favourite mascara (Benefit Rollerlash mascara), more chocolate, clip-on earrings, Autograph nail polishes and M&S Pjs.

I think this is by far, my favourite present this year!

Audrey Hepburn is an amazing woman, who I greatly admire. She had a tough childhood being raised during world war 2, was hugely talented, very beautiful (never knew it), successful in her career, extremely fashionable with no effort, a mother and of course, most admirably did fantastic charity work for charities such as UNICEF. I don't want to say too much more without reading and knowing thoroughly. I thought who better to talk about her life than her son, so when I heard he had written a book, I knew I had to read it!

I love Liz Earle products, and it probably sounds cheesy, but is true...their products have changed my life. When I started using their cleanse and polish I realised I hadn't previously been getting all my foundation off, my skin improved (I often struggle with acne and scarring) and best of all, people comment on how healthy my skin now looks. When Gran gave me this, I was excited as these are two products I've not tried and I've tried a great few.

This is another product I adore and swear by. I adore Benefit mascaras, but this is my favourite by miles! I like how gentle it is on eyes, how long my lashes look with less time than usual and weirdly I even like the smell of it.

Got plenty of chocolate this year. Mum got me 4 bags of these too. They are my favourite chocolate buttons and sold in Aldi. They honestly do the best chocolate despite the low-low price. Gran also got me a pack of mini chocolate oranges, which I had put on the floor while opening other presents. My crazy dog thought it was a toy or something to destroy; she ripped it open (luckily without eating as it is poison for dogs). However it was funny to watch. She even growled when I got it off her.

Love the choices here. I've missed wearing the occasional pair of earrings since my piercings seem to have sealed up, so feel these clip-ons will be the best solution. Already worn the top blue pair from Accessorise.

I've also been lucky with my choice of nail polishes this year. I feel I might even need to get a proper box to store all my colours in now! Has anyone ever tried Autograph nail varnishes? I've never come across them yet and big on painting nails. It's the only thing that can stop me biting them. I don't picked the colour off as often as I used to either!

Finally, I got this gorgeous PJ set which I adore, and wear as I type this! They are so comfy and baggy just how I like them! My Gran also bought me another pair from M&S but didn't want to bore you too much with every picture!

As well as this, I received £100 for driving lessons and a gift card to spend in M&S from grandparents. Yesterday I even booked my first lessons for Ipswich. I'm excited, but also nervous as I've not driven since my failed test attempt in March, where I was actually shaking and highly emotional!

It's fair to say I received lots and Santa was very generous! I definitely realise how lucky I am, and hope others got everything they wanted. I hate receiving technology gifts as somehow means less to play with, and almost feel bad asking for something like that at my age. At 24, I should get something like that myself!

I learnt many things about Christmas this year:
1. Just because you get older doesn't mean it can stop being fun. You just need to adjust what you like now
2. Don't ask for chocolate as you'll get too much, eat it all and hate yourself!
3. Appreciate what you have and give where you can!
4. Looking towards goals  is one of my favourite parts (just reconfirmed what already knew)
5. As cheesy as it sounds, Christmas is all about family and enjoying time together

I love the New Year. Honestly no idea why because short of watching the countdown, my new year traditions haven't changed much since being a child. I spend the day with my parents, relax and have festive food. Then at the strike of midnight, we hug/kiss each other and wish each other a happy new year. I've only spent two years outside the house and one away from my parents. One was watching the fireballs in Stonehaven, which was lovely but very cold and crowded. Definitely something I'm glad I did, but wouldn't do again. The other was my first year moving out, and spent with my flatmate and her sister. They both fell asleep which was a disappointing start to the new year.

Why do I like new year? Well, I'm someone who loves setting goals and looking for things to look forward to. I might have already mentioned my goals for 2017 in my post: 10 things as I discuss my 10 hopes for the year ahead. Love to hear if you have any goals for the new year!

I've learnt so much this year as described in two posts: What being overweight taught me and Moving & Updates. I've learnt to accept my body shape, and increased my confidence from doing so. I've learnt what works best on my skin which is Liz Earle. I hope to write about this more in the new year! I've learnt from no longer working in fundraising and within the third sector, what it means to me. Most importantly, I've rediscovered my love of writing since starting this blog in July. 2016 has been a difficult year for not just me, but many others but I believe I've learnt many more personal lessons, which will help me in the future.

Hope you enjoyed reading my very belated Blogmas post. I wish you a merry Christmas, and my next post will be in 2017! I honestly can't wait for the new year. Happy celebrations!

Day 11 of Blogmas - Happy Christmas Eve

In many countries, today is the day to open presents; not tomorrow.

Every year my mum lets me open one present on Christmas Eve; she picks and I open it. To extend on this tradition, I let Dad open his jellybabies. I thought about giving mum a present, but that would leave her with one thing to open, which is due. This year I got her a calendar that she picked and a Laura Geller gift set. While moving, I accidentally smashed her Brighten and Glow by the brand; she was annoyed, so thought it would be nice to replace with some other great products.

Dad tried to say I was too young for this tradition, but like an advent calendar, I refuse to let my mum stop doing it. Total mummy's girl here!

Last night, I had a great Skype conversation with two of my friends, and got to open my presents. We usually meet, have a lovely meal, catch up and open presents. Not this year. It makes me sad, but I'm hopeful we will do it next year when I have more money.

One friend got me a balloon lamp and Body Shop gift set:

I've already tried some of the body lotion since my legs have blistered from chaffing (that's something nobody tells you about putting on weight). I found this lovely, cooling and just what was needed. I'm really happy with this as feel I look after my skin well, but body is actually very dry and neglected.

Another got me two packs of bath salts from Oliver Bonas, book: What would Audrey do? by Pamela Keogh and book: Ultimate Travelist: The Best Places on the planet...ranked by Lonely Planet:

As you know, I love Audrey and she's utterly my idol!

One of the places I wish to visit most!

Back to my Christmas Eve tradition, this year my mum let me open this:

I love a good pair of PJs as of late, so I'm excited to wake up wearing these.

Here are some funny conversations and things to happen on the lead-up to Christmas to end on:

Conversation 1:
A: I hate it when he screws up his wrapping year every year at Christmas.
B: (laughing) why? Everyone does that!
A: It makes it hard to recycle, it needs to be folded. I will just have to do it after he's done because he just won't.

Event 1:
Have you ever tried wrapping presents with pets? They are fascinated by wrapping paper. I was clever to do mine in my room, and away from animals. My mum not so much. One dog got tangled in sellotape and the other managed to trample on the wrapping paper.

Event 2:
As I might have previously mentioned in my post about Santa here, I believed in Santa until I was 11, which is probably quite old. I even believed when friends said they'd seen their parents putting out the presents. I even believed when I saw Santas at department stores or garden centres, that they were fake but help Santa. I fell for every lie my family gave me. The funniest excuse my mum came up with for why kids had seen their parents giving presents...they are naughty children, and the parents didn't want them to be upset.

That leaves me to wish you a merry Christmas. There will be one short post tomorrow, so I won't wish you a "Merry Christmas" just yet!  Not decided whether there will be anymore December posts, or whether it will be in the new year...

Day 8 of Blogmas - 10 things

Monday's post was very negative and listed the things I dislike about Christmas. However I want to make it very clear - I don't completely hate Christmas. I don't feel as excited this year. It could be because it doesn't feel as cold, or that I feel I've only just moved; it could be getting older or it could be the fact I'm working Christmas Eve and Boxing Day.

That being said, I do like spending time with family and all it entails, so here is my positive post about the things I love, am grateful for and goals for 2017.

10 things I love about Christmas:

1. Presents
Yes I'm still a total child! I've had to stop myself opening presents from two of my friends as they posted them.

2. Food
I love being greedy, and it's the one time Mum doesn't lecture me about how I will feel bad about it

3. Day off
It's a nice day off that you can spend off, where neither parents are stressing, and I can be with them

4. No pressure
There are no plans. I am not judged for staying my pjs most of the day!

5. Naps and time to chill
Sometimes I  get to sneak off for naps (I am known to have one, sometimes two and maybe three once).

6. Irn Bru
I've banned myself from drinking it as religiously as I used to. Unfortunately my skin flares up so I like the occasional treat of it on Christmas Day. Most enjoy a bellyful of alcoholic beverages, not me. I don't actually tend to drink anything alcoholic on Christmas Day

7. The aftermath
I love what comes after Christmas. It is the start of organising things for the new year, writing goals and tidying away anything new you've received.

8. Giving
I know presents came first, but this comes in equal measure. I usually start Christmas shopping at the end of October or early November, so love when I can finally exchange gifts; see how much they like it; if they like it.

9. Time for reflection
As it sounds, time to reflect similar to point 7.

10. Coming together
So many families might be far in distance, but come together and celebrate.

10 things I'm grateful for this year:

1. My dogs
2. My friends
3. My family
4. My increasing confidence
5. A home (this time of the year makes me feel for those less fortunate)
6. Learning new hobbies e.g. blog, scrapbooking and more
7. Enjoying being single - no need to look, and learning to enjoy own company
8. My health
9. A job
10. Having everything I need in terms of possessions

10 things I hope for in 2017:

1. Pass my driving test
2. Be the best Maid of Honour I can be for my close friend's wedding in August
3. Get a job in fundraising
4. Make a difference volunteering
5. Go somewhere abroad - preferably to visit my friend, Zara in Norway
6. Visit family who live further afield
7. Go to more gigs and events
8. Pursue more creative hobbies such as jewellery making
9. Start yoga properly again
10. Complete a charity challenge as discussed in yesterday's post here.

Hope you enjoyed this post. As you can probably tell, I love writing a good list! What are you looking forward to? Love to know!

Day 2 of Blogmas - Christmas Memories and Traditions

Today marks day 2 of my 12 days of Blogmas posts, and hope you are enjoying it. Incase you missed yesterday's post, click here. It discussed my wishlist for Christmas 2016.

Unfortunately due to moving and a lot of boxes still being unpacked, in the spare room, I couldn't find any old pictures of me celebrating Christmas, which I would have loved to share. However if I do, I will attach some to the post before Blogmas is over!

For this post, I wanted to discuss traditions and memories.

I can't think of a specific or one "fantastic" memory of Christmas. I just remember my favourite Christmasses having more people around. We used to have my Gran around, and I'm sure whether it was Christmas or during the new year, but we sometimes had my Mum's friends around. I think a Christmas with more people is somehow more fun.

That being said, it is usually a Christmas of me, my Mum, Dad and the dogs. I love it being close-knit with the two people who love me most. I still feel like a big kid who expects her presents in her stocking; to be bought an advent calendar every year from my mum and a yearly argument or three.

No matter what we're doing, Mum's cooking is always amazing. I'm not a huge fan of roast dinners but love the food at Christmas  I usually have turkey, gravy, pigs in blankets, mash and anything else I might have specifically asked for. Mum is like the food Santa when Christmas is involved! We ask, she gets. Throughout the day I laze infront of the telly like many might do, use or try my new gifts and stuff my face with chocolate and treats until I can eat no more.

The only specific memory I remember as a child is being asked what I thought of my presents, and saying to my mum one year: "Everything is perfect, but wish Santa hadn't bothered getting that!" and pointed to some stuffed doll thing. Years later, I still cringe at being so spoilt and ungrateful.

What are you Christmas memories and traditions? It's always fun to hear how people's Christmases vary.

100 Ideas for Blogmas

I can't believe it's that time of year again! I've had the first chocolate from my advent calendar, watched my first Christmas film of the festive season, Arthur Christmas, and have a few friends sorted for Christmas already. A more organised me have been all bought by this time, but unfortunately not, but I at least have a rough idea what I need to get!

Anyway, today's post is promoting Blogmas. For those who don't know, Blogmas is about writing a festive post from 1st December up until the 24/25th December. My post gives an array of ideas for those wanting to take part, but with no idea what to write about. Although some ideas are not my own, these are popular posts I've seen other bloggers write about or key things that make you think of Christmas. Here is my list of 100 ideas:

1. All about Santa - any facts we know, the history of how he came about etc.
2. Christmas Day Outfit of the Day - what are you wearing on the big day? Ideas of things to wear...
3. Festive Make-up Looks - ideas of new trends this winter, or face-paints to look like Rudolph  snowflake, whatever.
4. Christmas Films - describe what your favourite films are over the festive period, or plans of things to watch this Christmas!
5. Christmas Traditions - what do you do every year? Are there any specific things you do with friends or family?
6. Christmas Food - what do you love to eat over Christmas? What do you look forward to every year?
7. Christmas Events - what events are on this festive period? What are you going to this year? Christmas fayres, markets, Santa's grotto, whatever.
8. Christmas Events attended - similar to number 7, describing festive events you've attended. Any specifics
9. Things you love about Christmas - what do you like most about Christmas? The food, films, decorating the tree, family time, drinks or something more specific.
10. My wishlist - what do you want for Christmas? Enough about your specific gift ideas for others, it's all about being selfish.
11. Gift ideas for her - guides on what to buy for Mum, Gran, Auntie Betty, Sister, Niece, or any female friend etc.
12. Gift ideas for him - guides on what to buy for Dad, Granddad, Uncle Bob, Brother, Nephew, or any male friend or whatever.
13. Favourite Places to buy things - where are you buying all your favourite gifts for people this year?
14. Being Charitable this Christmas - things to help a good causes e.g. volunteering, donating, specific festive events etc.
15. Christmas Fashions - the best Christmas Jumpers, the worst Christmas Jumpers, festive outfits, things to wear to work Christmas parties etc.
16. Favourite Childhood Memory of Christmas - a favourite present, funny story or something you liked during Christmas or lead-up.
17. Dressing up for Christmas - have you got any fun pictures of you dressed as an elf, santa, or anything festive?
18. Decorating for Christmas - perhaps one of the most exciting parts of Christmas. Pictures of the tree with it's decorations and lights, and other props to remind of Christmas.
19. Things to prepare for Christmas - what do you do to prepare for Christmas?
20. Post ideas for Blogmas - like this, but your own ideas
21. Best places to visit during Christmas - do you go away during the festive period? Where do you recommend? What do you like most?
22. Ultimate Christmas Playlist - what are your favourite festive songs that get you in the mood for Christmas?
23. Things to do - what do you love to do during the festive period?
24. Secret Santa Gift Ideas - have you decided to do a work's secret Santa and not know what to get at a specific budget? If you're struggling, others are likely to be. Help them out!
25. Advent calendars - what are your favourite advent calendars? These don't need to just be chocolate, but there are now beauty, candle, food or alcoholic advent calendars (I feel I only heard of these this year).
26. Worst Christmas Present - I am a firm believer in it's the thought that counts, but that being said, you can't forget those less favoured gifts. Everyone remembers the worst present they have received for Christmas. Share your funny present stories!
27. Thing you dislike most about Christmas - everyone likes to share their love of the festivities, but there is always something to moan about. The sprouts, too many people (not getting on), stress cooking etc.
28. Baking - festive treats that you wish to make during the festive period.
29. Letter to Santa - not just children have a wishlist, so why not share what you want for Christmas. Or perhaps you have a copy of an old letter you sent?
30. Year Review - reflect on the year, and what has been achieved, goals for 2017 and all that's good or bad about the year.
31. Stocking Filler Ideas - these are perhaps my favourite gifts. I'm gutted that my mother no longer fills my stocking. I loved finding little treats; the little things that make up my favourite memories for christmas. I love how it feels that the person cares and has thought of your personally.
32. Boxing Day Sales - I hate them! Mainly because I've only stopped working that day the last two years. However, you might wish to tell us about the best deals coming up.
33. Recipes - know a great recipe for Christmas? Share it with us less fortunate, who can't cook!
34. What Christmas means to you? - There is the obvious religious connotation, but it can mean so much more to many others.
35. Festive Nails - Your favourite in nail art and favourite nail polishes to try.
36. DIY Presents - Are you crafty? If so, please share your favourite things to make as gifts for Christmas.
37. Winter walk - Winter is cold, but it looks rather beautiful with the snow and frost. Why not show some beautiful pictures of your winter walk?
38. Snow-related post - anything on the forming of the snow. The British love to discuss the weather after all!
39. Hair ideas for any Christmas Parties - hair ups, hair down, curls, straight, plaits or whatever. Share any of your favourite styles.
40. Christmas Q&A
41. Christmas Themed Collaboration Post - this is something I'd consider doing with another blogger - comment below if interested.
42. Christmas Wrapping - there are some beautiful paper to use during Christmas, so why not share your favourites? What gets you into the festive consumerism more like showing your presents wrapped and ready for Christmas!
43. Festive Candles - what are your favourite Christmas fragrances?
44. Christmas Cocktails - what festive inventions can you think up?
45. Last minute gift ideas - it seems like some have prepared since January, but some leave it until the last week or whatever. Are there any ideas for them?
46. Festive Product Reviews - has something been released just for the festive period? Share something you have been loving or disliking this year.
47. Shop locally this Christmas - share great things you have discovered for christmas that is local to you.
48. The Great Christmas Turkey debate - Many complain that they hate dry turkey, but still have it. Some settle for another meat or vegetarians or vegans try something completely new. Share what your festive food is.
49. Funny Christmas Work Party - share a hilarious story from a work gathering during the festive period, whether it is a funny drunk tale, funny argument that took place or story of funny conversations.
50. Favourite Christmas Story - is there a story about Christmas you particularly love and wish to share?
51. Christmas Jokes - It doesn't need to be one of the cheesy cracker jokes, but it does need to be festive!
52. Elfie - share a festive selfie
53. Christmas Quotes - share a lovely festive quote from any books, films, TV or one you have heard around.
54. Christmas on a budget - help with gift ideas for those like me, who are looking for gifts on a specific budget or looking to save money.
55. Christmas Gift Ideas for Mum - any specific things you want to buy for your mother/stepmother and might help give ideas to others.
56. Christmas Gift Ideas for Dad - any specific things you want to buy for your father/stepfather and might help give ideas to others.
57. Christmas Gift Ideas for Grandparents - this is often one of the most difficult to buy for. As I get older, I feel I want and need less so feel older members of the family are hard to think of. Got any good ideas?
58. Christmas Gift Ideas for Sister - any specific things you want to buy for your sister/stepsister and might help give ideas to others.
59. Christmas Gift Ideas for Brother - lookat ideas for buying for your brother/stepbrother and might help others struggling to come up with something.
60. Christmas in community - is there anything specific happening? Clubs, groups, churches, charities, associations and businesses - what are they doing?
61. Christmas Crafts - I love crafty things, but unfortunately not found something I enjoy "crafting".
62. Christmas Giveaway - Who doesn't love a competition or the idea of winning something? Add festivities to it, and it makes it so much more fun!
63. Christmas Games - Are you one of those families who play board games? Any favourites? Or do you know of specific games which are fun for kids? This would be perfect for mummy bloggers/readers.
64. Christmas Diaries
65. What's on my tree - picture of the Christmas tree with all its decorations, lights and glory.
66. Favourite Blogmas Posts - share your favourite festive posts, and promote those who have also took part in Blogmas.
67. What I got for Christmas? - Were you naughty or nice? Share what you've been treated to this year, and what you're most grateful for.
68. Chart of the Best Christmas Gifts - What are the things people have bought you that stick in your mind? That are sentimental.
69. Homemade Christmas Cards - show some of your love for crafting with this one.
70. Favourite TV Ads - some people look forward to adverts from specific supermarkets or retailers like M&S, John Lewis and many more. I also look forward to the Coca Cola advert as it makes me think that Christmas is coming.
71. Christmas with Animals/Babies - Show pictures of babies or animals dressed in festive outfits.
72. Ideal Christmas Day - describe your idea of the best Christmas.
73. Favourite Christmas Pjs
74. New Year Resolutions - What are hopes, goals and wishes for next year?
75. 10 Things you're thankful for this Christmas - share what you are grateful for this Christmas whether it is family, something you got given or food.
76. Photo Diary of Christmas Day - what a lovely idea to capture the special day.
77. Christmas Books - any favourite books whether they are your favourites or recommended for children.
78. Winter Haul
79. Christmas Myths - Is there anything you hear about Christmas that wish to discss that isn't true? such as Santa, Rudolph, Mrs Claus, or anything else.
80. Christmas Fragrances - Is there a smell that instantly reminds you of the festive period?
81. Remedies for illness - this is the time of the year that most people get sick, so if there are any tips to avoid it, I would love to hear it.
82. Winter skin resime - This time of year makes your skin dry, lips chapped and your skin is paler. You therefore need to adjust what you're doing.
83. Christmas Wreaths
84. Christmas Jewellery - any festive bracelets, necklaces or earrings you are loving or have made.
85. Santa's Grotto - a great post for those with kids.
86. Favourite Christmas Characters - any favourite characters in books, film, TV, adverts or whatever.
87. Christmas Bucket List - things you wish to do over the festive period.
88. Christmas Guilty Pleasures - mine are mostly food-related, but what are your festive guilty pleasures?
89. Christmas themed drinks - Anything whether it is alcoholic or specific cocktails, hot chocolate, iced lattes or whatever.
90. Homemade Festive Items - How to make something festive such as Christmas decorations, Rudolph ears or anything else.
91. Tips for taking on the Sales - when is best to buy? Or anything else?
92. Black Friday Bargains - showing the best bargains
93. Christmas Stationary Post - if you love stationary, this is a must! Share your favourite notepads, pens or anything that makes you get in the spirit of Christmas.
94. Christmas Bath Bombs - share your favourite festive bath bombs or bath-related products.
95. 10 Ways to Celebrate Christmas in Style - this doesn't have to be style-related, but can demonstrate ways to make the most of the festive period.
96. Favourite Vlogmas - show your favourite vloggers taking part in Vlogmas.
97. How do you spread Christmas Eve?
98. When do you open your presents?
99. Anything Winter-related - Winter is upon us, and the greatest reminder that Christmas is coming, so they both come hand in hand.
100. Anything Festive - as it is blogmas, you are encouraged to write anything that makes you think of Christmas.

Hope you like my list, it's got you in the festive period and inspired you to take part in Blogmas from the 1st December to 25th December.

In other news, I've decided to do Blogmas a bit differently, and write for the 12 days of Christmas. I just have too many posts I want out that are not Christmas related, but still wish to take part. If you are taking part in Blogmas please post your links below, and I will make sure I follow you during Blogmas.

Gilmore Girls is FINALLY back!

You may know from my other blog posts how much I love Gilmore Girls, and with that I knew I had to write about it coming back. Due to the move, I've not managed to binge on the latest episodes (I've only seen the first episode of  A Year in the Life: Winter). Gutted! That being said, on the run-up I've been watching a lot of the old episodes and fell in love all over again. My Mum jokes that she thought it was finished. Oh how wrong she was!

I've also watched lots of clips on YouTube and know about the ending. The cliffhanger. The four words that leave you with more questions and wanting more. I was so upset to know the ending before seeing, so will not spill like I've seen some bloggers, Youtubers and fans already have. I was thinking of further reviewing the new episodes, but will see about that...I'm not good at keeping quiet!

This post will be my hopes for the upcoming episodes and my predictions:

Team Logan

When I left it originally, I was Team Jesse all the way. I disliked Dean a lot. He made her feel bad about herself. The way he dumped her when she didn't say "I love you" right away, the way she messed with her head after he said he still loved her despite being married and of course how he never challenged her. I also find it unrealistic to have someone falling for their first love; he live and move on. He has no ambition and has little in common with Rory.

Rory had been instantly attracted to Jesse; there is obvious chemistry and they share a love of books. They have grown a lot since they first started dating. They got on at an intellicental level, and made each other better in some way. Rory trusted Jesse, and became more interesting with him. I think he might have done as well without Rory's influence.

Initially, I found Logan spoilt, entitled and very different to Rory, but upon watching it again I have found that out of the three he is the most perfect for her. He was hard-working to make his own way in the world outside of his family riches, loved Rory and she loved him back. They met during university, and out of the three she was with him longest and from that I noticed they went through the most. He was instantly there when her grandfather had a heart attack, he saw her during her graduation, he supported her through falling out with her mother and quitting Yale (although brief) and most of all they made it through the brief long-distance. Therefore I hope they do make it back together. I feel Rory was right to refuse his proposal as she had more to achieve than just becoming Logan's wife. That being said, he has supported her through any decisions and I hope they make it.

Obama Campaign

I hope to hear how Rory got on during the following of the Obama elections, and the relationship there. I loved the clip with her and Michelle. Typical Rory with the books! It would have also been entertaining if it had been filmed after finding out that Trump is president. I know she was a big fan of Hilary Clinton after all. Remember, how she wanted to say she'd be the person she'd most like to eat with, when applying for university (or college).

As someone who wanted to go into journalism, I will adore hearing all the opportunities that came her way. Will she make it to New York Times?

Rory & Lorelai's lives

I've seen hints that Rory is out of work, and even starts working at Chilton. This would be an interesting one as this is where it all began. Stars Hollow is where we fell in love with the mother-daughter relationship, and it brings it all back now that Rory is coming back to the small town. I can't wait to see their antics, witty comebacks and fast-talking! Will Lorelai still be running the Dragonfly inn or does she have more ambitions in the eccentric town?

Lorelai & Luke

I always wanted the other Lorelai to marry Luke and have his babies. However I feel since we don't see this in the trailers and she's likely to be 48, the likelihood of children might be off. I'm still hopeful for the right wedding this time. Christopher was always unsure, immature and too spontaneous for Lorelai. Luke was always right for her. He argued, challenged her funny ways, loved her, appreciated her and always wanted what was best for her. He supported her where she needed, but never told her what to do. He helped with her crazy ways - when her car broke down, he made sure she got the same exact model (helping get it fixed), and organised the entire party for Rory leaving in the final episode. What more can be said? He's perfect! Who doesn't love a happy ending?

Sookie

Sookie is one of my favourite characters despite Lorelai and Rory of course. I can't wait to see how the kids have grown 7 years on (I can't remember how old the first one, Davy was, so wonder whether there will be a teen?) Anything with Sookie is always funny though. Especially her and Jackson arguing. I also hope she's still showing her passion for cooking, and can't wait to see what they named the youngest. Yes, I'm that sad!

Lane and Zac 

Oh how I loved that rock star couple so much! I hope they're settling into parenthood, and Lane hasn't given up on drumming. Are they still working in Luke's? I was gutted to see so many fans who disliked Zac for Lane; I thought he was perfect. He adored her and was always there, quirky and managed to find ways to relate her scary mother.

There is one mystery that eludes me though. Where is Lane's father? Did he die? They always mention it in the plural - parents, but never has he appeared. They have had many Korean family occasions, even her wedding and still to see him...

Taylor madness

Are Taylor's town meetings still crazy? No doubt. The comebacks of Taylor and Lorelai were well-worth it. I also love how he managed to encourage the townspeople to do things they totally disagreed with. Remember, when Jackson did his job for a while? Yeah, it didn't last long...

Kirk

What jobs is Kirk doing now? Has he married Lulu? I've seen him attend the traditional Friday night dinner, so can't wait to see the comedy at that one! I also like the hints of his advice column which have circled around on facebook pages. See below:

The "Gilmore Girls" 

So many good pictures for these 3!

Richard passes away like the actor did unfortunately. I loved him! The fiercely loyal and protective father, mentoring and supporting nature to Rory and the way he proved to be Emily's solemate. It will be interesting to see how Emily copes. I saw a clip where she gets a wall-sized picture of him, which made me chuckle. It sums up Emily's quirky character. Friday family dinners are still on too!

Stars Hollow

It's exciting to see what all the townspeople of Stars Hollow are up to, and what unusual events will be on! I honestly can't wait to get back to it.

To finish this post, here are a few screenshots of Gilmore Girls quizzes I've done (sad I know):

Always get different ones - had Sookie before!

Hope you enjoyed the post, and love to hear your comments especially if you like the show as much as me!

Still unsure whether to review the new episodes, when I've finished watching.