Thoughts on leaving home for the first time

I'm in the process of looking for a house to buy. A house to BUY. God that's a sentence that I never thought I would ever write. It seems like we've been saving for years and while we have been saying we've been saving for years, realistically we probably only put some effort into it at the beginning of this year. Back in January it didn't really seem like a possibility but yet somehow, we've managed to scrape together enough money for a deposit for a house. Thank the lord for those 5% deposits. It all so exciting and after spending ten years with my boyfriend, I'm so ready to move out and make a home together.

But yet as it seems to be getting closer, it's also becoming just a little bit scary. At the grand age of 27 years old, I'm getting ready to leave home for the first time. My safe haven. The place where I can be myself. I never moved away for Uni so I haven't had the experience of living away from home. I've lived in the same house in the same town my whole life. I'm only looking to move out into the same town - it's as close to London as we can afford - so I'm really not venturing that far. But, it will be on my own away from everything I have ever known. I'm a massive homebird and as an only child, I genuinely enjoy my own company and in my house I often get that. It's such a nerve wracking thing to set up home with someone and even when you have ten years behind you, you never really know someone until you live with them. Their little quirks that seem cute at the moment but may grate on you after a few months of living in each others pockets. I'm pretty confident not much will change as thanks to our jobs we rarely spend much time together. But there's always those niggling feelings at the back your mind.

Will my own house ever feel like home? Will I feel comfortable in my own home as I do at my home at moment? Will I always feel like my parents house is 'home'? Will my boyfriend and I be able to live in perfect harmony? What will happened why I get only child syndrome and want to be alone?

I suppose all those questions will never be answered until you finally take the plunge and set up house yourself. One thing I do know is, I'm looking forward to finally leaving my shoes downstairs by the stairs without being told off!

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How to decorate your bedroom on a budget

I still live at home so I don't really have too much free control over my bedroom. All systems go towards that house deposit - so near yet so far! But I have been enjoying adding a few bits and pieces to my bedroom to make it feel like 'mine'. Here are a few ideas to help put your stamp on your own space even if you can't decorate away until your heart's content.

Wall prints
These can be a great way to cheaply add a little bit of your own personality to your room. You don't even have hang them on a wall. Simply pop them in a frame and onto a shelf. I fell in love with this pretty print while I visited Sarah a few months back. It summed up the way I've been feeling recently and incorporated my love of travel. Keep an eye out on Etsy for some fantastic prints - I've got these Harry Potter ones on my list. Nothing quite like a Dumbledore quote to make you feel all sassy and ready to take on the world.

Duvet sets
I think you'll all be with me when I say the bed is the most important thing in any bedroom. Plus a good duvet cover can make all the difference.  You can pick up some great ones in Primark which mean you can have a few on rotation. I was sent a special anti-allegy duvet from Sleepy People in time for Allergy Awareness Week in April. It's designed to offer protection against mites and bacteria making it great for allergy sufferers. I can say I haven't had any trouble since sleeping with it!

Candles
It's only in this last year that I've totally got the hype of candles. I always thought they were a bit of a waste of money and wasn't keen on burning my cash. But, now I absolutely love them, my favourite thing is lighting one before snuggling under the covers to read a book. You really don't have drop £50 on one to bag a decent one either. This fun pineapple candle was a bargain in the New Look sale at £3 - check out their homeware section. Oliver Bonas always do some gorgeous smelling scents that really fill your room. This limited edition Pomegranate & Patchouli candle smells absolutely gorgeous.

Shelves
Shelves are a great way to add little trinkets to give your room your own stamp. I love to add photographs, perfume, candles and basically anything that I think sums up my personality. As my room is a black and white theme I like to add a little colour on my shelves. Charity shops and bootsales can be great pieces to pick up trinkets for a few pennies. They're often be slightly unusual too - you'd be surprised what people chuck out.

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Why we all need a #girlgang

After thinking about booking Vegas for my 30th birthday, I've come to the conclusion that I'm not dreading that number. I feel like I'm going to hit 30 in my prime and feel happy knowing with the way things are. As cheesy as that sounds. This past year I've felt like all the puzzle pieces have finally slotted together and I feel so much more content with my lot than I ever have been. A huge part of this is because of friends. Coming from all walks of life, these girls just get me. I can completely be myself without any fear of being judged. Probably because they're often thinking the exact same thing.

I've often be called a 'strong woman' as if it's something to be ashamed off. A negative thing. But these girls make me feel like it's ok to put my career before having kids if that's what I want, to relish my independence and to blow a months rent on a handbag if I've worked hard. It doesn't make me a bad person. They're here to throw encouragement, hold your hand when it all gets a little too much, teach you that whatever doesn't kill you makes you stronger and be your biggest cheerleader. I might only see some a few times a year and I might see some a few times a months. But no matter where they are, they're always there. One in particular feels like the sister I never had. They make me believe in myself, that I'm stronger than I think I am. In turn, its helped me to let things go and to not be such a worrywart. If things are meant to be, they will be and if they don't happen first time around, its doesn't reflect bad on me. I've learnt that life doesn't follow a script and its absolutely fine to just take it as it comes - to enjoy what I have achieved and not worry about what I haven't.

It's taken me a while to get here. I've spent years cutting out toxic people. Those people who you spend a day with and come home feeling like you've done ten rounds with Mike Tyson. Friends you really dreaded spending time with. But for some reason you just couldn't cut them out. I wasn't really too keen on having girl friends. As a result I never really had a proper group of girl friends until I was about 23. It was too stressful, too much drama. I much preferred to hang out with boys. But friendships aren't meant to be hard work.

Surround yourself by girls who make you believe you can take on the world. But most importantly surround yourself by girls who will pick you up when you fall and put back together the pieces.

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Three top tips for a girls night in

Let's face it, nothing beats a cosy night in with your favourite girl or two putting the world to rights, scoffing endless snacks and lusting over Ryan Gosling, wondering when on earth he is going to ask you out. All fun girly nights have three main ingredients. Include these and you'll end up having the best night in. I promise.

1. Pampering
I love a good pampering session but due to a busy life, I rarely make time. Something I need to work better on! But a girls night provides the perfect excuse while giving you a chance to natter. I'm loving sheet masks at the minute - thanks for introducing me Michelle! - and they really do work their magic. Worth it too for the comedy factor of having it on your face and pretending to be a ghost. Just me then... So pull together your favourite nail polishes, moisturisers and face masks to give each other some much needed TLC.

2. Food
Food is probably the most important aspect of any meet up or any occasion really. But pigging out doesn't always have to mean shoving a 20 inch pizza, a bowl of nachos and 25 chicken wings down your throat in less than ten minutes. Luckily Go Ahead!* have the perfect snacks that allow you to indulge but feel a little less guilty too. My favourite are the cookie bites - especially the sweet white chocolate and raspberry nibbles. They're the perfect treat to make sure you indulge your sweet tooth and less than 100 calories. Perfection right?!  The crispy fruity yogurt breaks also get a massive thumbs up for me. I'll be making any excuse to eat these!

3. Films
Finally you need films. But not just any old films. Films that make you cry with laughter, smile until your face hurts and make your heart swell. So obviously any films with Ryan Gosling in. Light-hearted, funny films that you don't have to concentrate too hard on. Because let's face it, you'll be doing a hell of a lot of chatting throughout. If only to discuss THAT scene in The Notebook...

What are your top tips for a girls night in?

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February Social

I've decided to start a monthly series featuring what I've been doing. The weeks are going past so fast that I just don't have time to blog about everything individually. Just how is it nearly March already? But I've had fun so I feel my shenanigans don't deserve to go undocumented. Here is what I managed to do in February - it seems I spent a lot of time in Brixton!

Strada, London Bridge
At the end of January - it's nearly February! - I was invited to an evening with Strada at London Bridge. They were celebrating the end of Dry January and showcasing their selection of non-alcoholic drinks. And lots and lots of delicious nibbles. I was very impressed! I didn't even know there was such a wide selection at the restaurant and drinking them make me realise that you really don't miss out when you opt out of wine. I'll definitely be looking out for the sparkling non-alcoholic prosecco next time I'm there!

Bloc Party, o2 Academy, Brixton
Bloc Party are my favourite band in the world. 11 years this 50 Cent and Sean Paul loving, Von Dutch hat wearing girl stumbled across Silent Alarm - stolen from her brother - at my friends house. We put it on and it changed my life. This fast and furious band with fierce political lyrics and cracking riffs just spoke to me. Even now Helicopter still gives me all the feels as it did when I was 16. Silent Alarm is my all time favourite album - nothing beats it for me. As always the band were a pleasure to watch. This now skinny jean wearer, guitar loving, converse wearing and indie girl owes them a lot.

Fish, Wings and Tings, Brixton
This Caribbean restaurant in Brixton Market has been on my to-try list for a very long time. Afro-Caribbean food is by far my favourite cuisine so I'm not sure why it's taken me so long to try this place. We had a spare hour of so before a gig so decided to finally tick it off the list. I opted for incredible codfish fritters with a milky sauce - so soft and addictive - with curried goat for my main course. Served with homemade slaw and a pineapple chutney-type sauce, it was pure comfort food. I'm desperate to go back and order that jerk chicken - just look at that sauce!

The Lion King, West End
My sister-in-law got extra brownies points this year when she took me to see The Lion King for my birthday. Can you believe it's been at the west End for 17 years?! Crazy. It. Was. Incredible. Emotional, entertaining and awe-inspiring. Within minutes I'd completely forgot I was watching actor in costumes and was transfixed. It felt like I was watching real animals in Africa. I would recommend it in a heartbeat.

Bukowski, Brixton
With our first choice for dinner fully booked, we picked this burger joint on a whim. While it's not the best burger I've ever had, it was a good shout. The puck nuggets were the best thing about the meal - I could have eaten them until I went pop. Deep fried duck and pork nuggets smothered in Korean spices with a spicy Kimchi dip. Yeah like I said, I could have eaten them forever. Keeping in with my recent avocado obsession, I pumped for The Californian. A juicy beef patty was piled high with crunchy lettuce, spicy chipotle mayo, Monterey Jack cheese, crispy bacon, a tomato, red onion and creamy avocado. Just as good as it sounds! The avocado was a revelation in a burger and something I'm keen to repeat soon!

Hozier, o2 Academy, Brixton
On the same night as Bukowski, we had a date at the Academy to see Hozier. Take Me To Church was one of my favourite songs of last year. The Irish star has such a haunting, soulful voice that sounds absolutely beautiful live. It was such a chilled out, enjoyable gig and I'd definitely be booking up tickets again next time he tours.

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Why we shouldn't strive for perfection

We want it all eh? The amazing career, the stamps on our passport, the incredible social life, the big friendship group and the enviable relationship. And we're often told that we can have it all. But the reality is totally different. No one has it all. No one has perfection. And it's ok. We shouldn't strive for it anyway. Perfection is overrated.

Perfection sounds great on paper but in reality it can be a downward spiral. It can be exhausting trying to constantly reach the peak and once you're there? You constantly looking for something else because it's never enough. Because true perfection doesn't exist. It can't ever be achieved. It can damage your mental health searching for something that doesn't exist. It stops you from living in the moment. Life is so precious that it shouldn't be wasted worrying about what you don't have. Concentrate on what you do have.

It's natural to constantly compare yourself to others. They have nicer hair, a attentive boyfriend or a better job but I can guarantee that they don't believe that. You always want what you don't have. 

It's ok to be content. It's ok to do things to the best of your ability. To plod along at your own pace. And it doesn't matter if it doesn't live up to anyone else's standards. It's also ok to be happy with this. It doesn't mean you don't have any ambition or that you're settling. Being content with your lot is a wonderful thing. It's amazing how much happier you become. Concentrate on what makes you happy. As long as you do things your own way, then that is perfection.

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Turning 27

A few iPhone pictures from a birthday weekend of cake, cake and more cake. With a few glasses of wine thrown in too.

A picture popped up on my Facebook memories from six years ago at a party showing a fresh-faced
smiling 21-year-old. 27 seemed like an absolute age away to that youngster but here we are. 27 years old. I'll be the first to admit that I'm not where I thought I would be at 27 when I was that girl about to finish her Journalism degree. I had a naive mind brimming with wild ideas. But I've achieved things that that 21 one-year-old never thought she would. I've been places she'd only dreamed of. I've got to hang out with childhood idols - 911 definitely got my bodyshakin'. I've worked for publications that would have made her pinch herself. I've finally gotten the Mulberry handbags she obsessively stalked online.

With age comes contentment and I feel pretty content with my lot. I'm not a massive high achiever but I've worked hard to get to where I am. I've had quite a few hiccups along the way - especially last year - but then so does everyone. Life doesn't always follow a script. It chews you up and spits you out but the most important thing is you get back on your feet.

The older I've become the more I feel like I've grown more of a voice and the ability to do what is right for me. I've learnt to say no, go with my gut instinct and admit that things aren't ok so I don't suffer in silence. I've surrounded myself with people who just get me and allow me to thrive. I've learnt to appreciate the little things in life and despite what my ASOS account may say, I know deep down it isn't the material things that make me happy. The happiness comes from the people you surround yourself by and the love you show yourself. I am so grateful to live in this big, beautiful, crazy world and I can't wait to explore it more. I may not have wisdom yet but that's overrated right? Who wants to grown old sensibly anyhow?

Come on 27, let's make this year count. I have a good feeling. Even if it does mean I'm officially in my late twenties.

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My goals to achieve in 2016

Looking back at 2015 life goals, I haven't really done very well. But I tried so that's the main thing right? Sometimes we can't achieve everything we set out to do in 12 months. So what do I plan on doing in 2016?

1. See even more of the world
I want to carry on with where I left off in 2015. It was such an incredible year for travel. If I'm honest, I think that will always be my number one priority. This year I have booked in Cologne, Prague, Vienna, Bratislava and Budapest - ticking off four new countries along the way. I'm most excited about four days in Budapest, a city that I've long lusted over. I won't be leaving Europe this year as not having a full time job puts paid to that. But Europe is such a vibrant, colourful and diverse continent that I don't feel like I've drawn the short straw at all.

2. Put more of my passion into this blog
So last year was suppose to be the year that i really make something of this blog. Well it didn't take off like I wanted it too. But I think I'm ok about that. I had some incredible opportunities and worked with some cracking brands last year because of this little space on the internet. This year I only want to put out content that I truly feel passionate about. Even if that means just posting once a week. It's going to be quality over quantity. I'm a little guilty of panicking and publishing something that I'm not quite confident with because I FEEL like I need to get something out there. I'm still going to post a variety of content and concentrate a lot more on the foodie aspect. Father Christmas aka the boyfriend very generously gifted me an Olympus Pen for Christmas so I'm hoping the quality of my photos will improve tenfold.

3. Spend more time with those I've known the longest
I am absolutely terrible at keeping in touch. Send me a text and I'll jump at the chance to meet up but I hardly ever make the first move. It's just because I get so caught up in my everyday life and completely forget to make time. I feel like I'm constantly moving at 100mph. So this year I'm going to make the effort. Be the person who suggests lunch, be the person who goes and stays with an old friend for the weekend and be that person who sends a text out of the blue to let someone know they're thinking of them.

4.  Look after my skin
I've never really had problems with my skin but this year, lord it's been a right old state. Despite spending a fortune on lotions and potions, I tend to use them for a few weeks then get lazy. Sleeping in make up, not cleansing my face and using make up wipes are all sins I've been guilty off this year. So i'm going to try and get back into a routine. Use the clay masks, the sheet masks and the facial oils and get my face under control!

5. Learn to have more self-confidence
This old chestnut eh? This year my confidence in myself seems to have hit rock bottom. It's resulted in lots of comfort eating, not taking care of myself and generally moping around like a big old wallower. So this year I'm going to try and take back a little control. Think of all the good things rather than dwell on the things that make me unhappy. Which in turn will help me become a right sassy chick ready to take on the world and show it exactly what I can offer. I'm fed up of feeling unhappy in myself.

New year, new start right?

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Looking back at 2015

So 2015 is done and dusted eh? It's been a funny old year. The first half was full steam ahead but then the second half? It's been trying. Bad news seems to be a reoccurring theme. But you know what's life without a few bumps in the road?

Friendships have fallen apart at the seams this year, leaving me still scratching my head at what happened in that department. I suppose some relationships are just not for the long haul. It has however made me so thankful for the people who have stuck around. Who are just as rubbish as me at keeping in touch and don't take offence when I disappear of the radar for a while. Which has been more times than I care to remember this year. Those who are always there when I do finally get my head in gear. Those who get in touch with me just as I'm feeling low and say the right words without even realising it.

I am currently unemployed and desperately trying to carve out a career in freelancing. Freelancing has been more difficult that I ever thought it would be. I ended this year on a high in my work life, having spent just under 6 weeks at a publication I've really enjoyed. Learning new skills and working in a great environment. I lost my job in July and it's been a whirlwind of emotions since. I've worked at a few publications but it's not been a steady flow and I've been down the job centre a few times with my tail between my legs signing on. I don't have anything set in stone for the new year which is slightly worrying but what will be, will be. I'll just be holding on as tight as I can to see where the job roller coaster takes me next year. The unknown can be exciting right?!

I've struggled a lot with self-confidence this year. Confidence in the career I've chosen, confidence in my looks and confidence at not sucking in life. It's so easy to compare ourselves to others and once you start, it can be a downhill spiral to a one-woman pity party. I hardly ever think I'm good enough and usually I can brush it off with a wise crack or a self-deprecating joke. But this year I've found myself wallowing more than usual. I've taken more than a few hits and struggled to get back on the horse.

But this year I have felt I've grown. I'm slowly getting better in believing in myself. I've grown in confidence in my ability to things done, grown in confidence in making the right decision for me and grown in learning to brush things off with my head held high. I'm going into 2016 knowing that I'm just plodding along, not really having any direction in life but feeling pretty content that the life I'm currently leading really isn't too bad at all. I've got a family who adore me, a boyfriend who always has my back and friends who accept me for being me. Those good moments? They've been the bloody best!

Show me what you've got 2016. I'm ready.

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2015: A year in travel

Last year one of my main aims was to travel. It more than exceeded my expections - I never thought I'd be lucky enough to visit so many different places. Nothing gets my heart beating faster or my eyes widening in delight than travelling to other countries to embrace different cultures. I'm so eager to soak up everything the beautiful world has to offer.

So where did I go?

Barcelona

In August I spent a long, lazy week in the Spanish city of Barcelona and fell head over heels for the Catalan capital. It felt rebellious, intense and fierce. Full of stunning sights, interesting history and incredible food, it's a city that's so much more than a city break. Thanks to the endless beaches, you can easily do a few days soaking up the Gaudi buildings before heading to the sea and forgetting all your troubles. We rented a cool apartment with its own private terrace just off Las Ramblas that provided the perfect base. It was the first relaxing  holiday in two years and was just what I needed after a tough month. Sometimes going with the flow is the makings of a perfect holiday.

Oxford

This picturesque city had been on my list of places to visit in the UK to visit for a long time - it's only just under 90 minutes away from my house. So for my birthday this year my boyfriend surprised me with a trip in February. And what a bloody lovely weekend it was. We stayed in the most luxurious hotel I've been to - in a converted prison -, had afternoon tea at the poshest hotel in town, wandered around the colleges pretending we were in Harry Potter, stalked the dinosaurs at the museum of natural history and trekked to the top of a church to be rewarded with stunning views of the city. I fell in love with the history, food scene and cobbled streets - definitely worth a cheeky weekend away.

Galena

I was lucky enough to go on a press trip to the state of Illinois in March. It still feels like a bit like a dream! One of the stops on the road trip was a picturesque small town named Galena. This quaint American town was like something out of a film. The charming main street was full of independent shops, colourful brick buildings and delicious restaurants. The Bed and Breakfast, Farmers Guesthouse, was one of my highlights. I have never felt more welcomed and the daily cheese and wine evening went down an absolute treat. I tried my first moonshine, learnt about the former US president Ulysses Grant, tasted the best popcorn of my life and widen my eyes at scary ghost stories. After a hectic time in Chicago, the slow pace was very much welcomed.

Chicago

Chicago was a city I always wanted to go but never thought I would. America is full of enticing cities that were higher on my life. But after going? It's my favourite city in the States and I'm dying to go back. It's the one city I'd recommend to anyone and I've kind of become an unofficial cheerleader for it. I think the fact I went without any expectations and hardly any prior knowledge meant that I could discover it with new eyes. I admired the sun setting behind the skyline on a lake cruise, had jelly legs whilst standing in a box over the city, took a tasty culinary tour of the city, wandered around Millennium Park and pathetically attempted a Man v Food dish of fried chicken. I am absolutely dying to go back as I feel I only just scratched the surface and I'd love to show my boyfriend everything the city has to offer.

Starved Rock State Park

After three days in Chicago we packed up our belongings and drove three hours to a state park. It was literally like being in the Dirty Dancing holiday camp. It felt so American! The lodge we stayed was in was nestled in 2630 acres of lush, thick forests, 18 canyons and gorgeous waterfalls - Americans always know how to do big eh? Soaking up the fresh air, it was one of those moments where you just feel in awe of Mother Nature. We went on a historic trolley tour with an hilarious guide, tasted the most delicious wines in the town next door and had a private tour of the beautiful Hegler Carus Mansion.

 Rockford

The final part of our road trip in Illinois was Rockford, the third largest city in the state.  The city has a very large Swedish population so of course we took advantage and scoffed some delicious Swedish pancakes. Only right to honour it's heritage right?! We were given an insight into the fascinating world of dinosaurs at the Burpee Museum of Natural History, taken back in time to the roaring twenties with a tour of the stunning Coronado atmospheric theatre and given a tour of a brewery. I was sad to come home after eight days in Illinois - it really was a trip of a lifetime.

Liverpool

June saw me head to Liverpool with my best friend. After a nightmare ten hour journey we finally arrived and made it our mission to discover what the city had to offer. We spent a lazy afternoon soaking up the history of the Cavern Club, danced until our feet were sore, wandered around Albert Dock and hunted down burgers. Liverpool is such a cool, vibrant city with fantastic northern hospitality. It's the perfect place to escape for the weekend.

The Highlands

After promising for two years, I finally made it up to visit my friend in The Highlands in the autumn and was left wondering why I'd left it so long. It really is such a beautiful part of the world - I was often left speechless that this was in the UK. Great Britain really is a pretty special place. We breathed in the Scottish fresh air, tried to sneak a peek at the Loch Ness Monster, chased waterfalls, wandered around a whisky distillery, spotted seals, trekked to a lighthouse and ate in the finest seafood restaurant I've had the pleasure of stuffing my face in. It was the perfect few days away and I'm already planning to return when the sun shines a little brighter.

Luxembourg

In June I was off on another press trip but this time to Luxembourg. Luxembourg city was a lovely compact place with a gorgeous old town and delicious places to eat. I loved the slower pace of life and we were there during the annual free music festival so it was a very happening place! The country has been occupied for a long time so the history really is an electric mix. So much to take in! It's the perfect place to spend a weekend away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. 

Is there anywhere I should add on my list for 2016? So far I only have a weekend in Cologne booked!

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Why London is the greatest city in the world

I've always had such a deep love and fascination with the bright lights of London. At the tender age of four I insisted I wanted to go to London and see the dinosaurs for my birthday. At the age of 11, I was adamant that all I wanted to do was work in the city. At the age of 21, I interned at various publications soaking up everything the big smoke had to offer. Finally at the age of 23 I got a job in central London. After a little blip I'm back commuting every day from Essex and I honestly couldn't be happier. London is where I'm meant to be. It's the city that captured my imagination and nothing has ever quite lived up to it.

I've been lucky enough to travel and see so many cities. New York, Barcelona, Berlin and Chicago have all left a footprint on my heart. But nothing has fully captured it hook, line and sinker quite like London.

This city chews you up and spits you back out with a vengeance. The city is all-comsuming, exhausting, aggressive, unapologetic and fierce. The people are rude, the streets can be dirty, the weather is truly awful, the tube makes me want to bang my head against the wall repeatedly and tourists insist on not walking down the left side of the escalator. But it's also the most magical place in the world. I still feel awestruck as I wander through the winding streets, pride when I see the city put on a show, goosebumps as I soak up the the history of yesteryear and emotional looking out at the thames after a bottle of wine. It's got such a colourful past in every corner and such thirst for life. It's a place where you can be anyone you want to be and no one ever bats an eyelid. The world is your oyster. Communities from all over the world have come together and made it their own. The melting pot of cultures that bubbles on every street helps to make it wonderful. It's a city that always feel so alive, so eager and so vibrant.

There's nowhere else quite like it. London is quite simply the greatest city in the world.

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5 ways to switch off after work

1. Scrapbooking
If you're anything like me, you love to collect bits and bobs from your adventures. Ticket stubs, leaflets, photo booths photos and odd knick knacks are all full of happy memories. So rather than stuffing them into a drawer, pop them in a scrapbooks. Make sure you arm yourself with some fuel - I'm loving Lovechock, a raw chocolate sourced from Ecuador. Instead of being roasted, the beans are cold ground. Natural Balance Foods are also a favourite at the minute. The Gingerbread flavour of the healthy snack bars is making me feel very festive! These delicious snacks are full of goodness so I don't feel so guilty about stuffing my face.  Settle down for an early night and take a trip through memory lane.

2. Paint your nails
I never feel more that I have my sizzle together then when I have pristine painted nails. There's just something about them that make me feel like I can take on the world. So I love nothing more then settling down after dinner, picking a colour from over a 100 nail polishes - I wish I was joking - and making my fingers look pretty. It's a great way to just forget about the world for a little while.

3. Life admin
There's just something about organising that gets me. I let my room/life get into a right old mess before something finally snaps and I'm on a mission to sort it all out. Nothing more rewarding them flopping down on your bed and realising that your life is in order. Tidy up that pile of papers sitting at the end of your bed, clear out some old clothes for eBay or get rid of those toiletries you ain't ever going to use.

4. Baking/cooking
As much as I hate to clear up, I feel most relaxed when I'm in the kitchen rustling something up. It doesn't have to be spectacular but cooking something from scratch always gives me a sense of achievement. You kinda get lost in the moment, forget about all your troubles of the day and have some very tasty - hopefully! - to eat by the end of it. Plus who doesn't like cake? If you don't, I'm judging. Soz.

5. Pamper night
We all need a little 'me' time and sadly it seems to be non-exsistant. Weekdays are always spent rushing around like a headless chicken, trying to squeeze 25 hours into 24 hours before collapsing in bed exhausted. Instead, take a step back and give yourself some TLC. A TLC soundtrack is optional. Light some candles, hunt out your favourite face mask and settle down with a good book. You'll feel a hundred times better.

How do you switch off from work?

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5 tips to help you sleep better

1. Make your bed cosy. Make it into a little haven that you can call your own. So invest in some gorgeous bed covers, pop some pretty fairy lights around the headboard and pop some cushions on your bed. It makes getting into bed even more inviting than usual.

2. Invest in a lavender pillow spray. I always scoffed at the thought of these. But boy do they work. There's something very relaxing about snuggling into your pillow and breathing in a floral fragrance to help wash all the troubles of the day away.

3. Good pillows are everything. They can be the difference to waking up a grouch or waking up full of zest to face the day. I personally prefer some nice and firm on top with a soft feather pillow underneath for the contrast. This Zonal Support Pillow from sleepy people.com* offers next support and holds its shape perfectly. I find with feathers they  get too scrunched up throughout the night and I wake up like a bear with a sore neck.

4. Switch off and opt for a book instead. I find getting lost in a good book makes my eyes droop and I fall asleep a lot quicker. Staring at your phone can strain your eyes and make you feel completely wide awake. Give yourself some down time. Your body will thank you in the morning when you wake up fresh as a daisy.

5. During the week try and go to sleep at the same time. It's easier said then done thanks to Netflix but it can really help your tired eyes. Get into a routine and it will help your quality of sleep. Hopefully you should wake up without an alarm which is always nice!

Do you have any tips to share?

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Learning to trust your gut

Pressure. A concept that can push you under the water and making it feel like you're frantically paddling trying to keep your head above the water. A concept that can force you into making decisions not always in your best interest. A concept that can make you full of regrets.

Over the last few week I've been faced with some tough decisions to make about the possibility of my future. At the moment my future feels so uncertain. So up in the air. I've not know if I'm coming or going. Freelance is tough. Tougher than I ever thought it would be. But I don't want to take opportunities for the sake of it. I want to take them because they feel right.

I've not known if I'm shooting myself in the foot in turning opportunities down in the hope that something would come off or if it I'm doing the right thing and will soon be rewarded. But when I thought about it deep down I realised that although I'll be faced with the total unknown, my gut was telling me that it was the right thing to do. Instinct is a powerful thing. It can help you make the correct decision. Not for anyone else. But for you. The most important person.

No one knows you better than yourself. After all, you've lived with yourself since day dot and have grown as a person over the years. You know what you want from life. What you truly want to do. No one else is living your life. So trust that little voice in your head. It knows what it's talking about.

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5 ideas for a cosy evening

I don't know about you but now the nights are getting darker and the air is getting colder, I'm looking to hibernate. Once I get home after my commute into the city, I'm straight into my snuggly pyjamas and locking up for the night. Staying home doesn't have to be boring, use the time to have concentrate on making your soul feel happy.

1. Films and chocolate. Could there be any better combination? I love nothing more than popping my favourite film or boxset on - Peaky Blinders may have been watched about four times over the last few weeks - and snuggling under the duvet with a good box of chocolates. My favourites ones of late have been these delicious Lindt limited edition orange lindor truffles*. I may or may not have scoffed a whole box as I was drooling over Cillian Murphy with a cup of Tetley's new Super Fruit Boosts cup of tea*. Even with a razor blade sewn in his hat, he's still a babe.

2. If you can't face going out on a Friday night after a long week at work, invite your BFF round for a slumber party. Order in your favourite takeaway, get under the covers and prepare to chatter the night away. Sometimes the best tonic is your friends. They are just as weird and wonderful as you are.

3. I live for long, bubble filed baths with a bit of Craig David on Spotify to take away my troubles. Light your favourite candles, grab your most gorgeous smelling hair mask and warm up your vocal chords for an evening of bath singing and soaking. You'll get out feeling refreshed and ready cosy up in fleecy pyjamas.

4. Ban technology for the night - yes even the addictive Instagram - and switch off. I promise you'll sleep so much better and make a start on that pile of unread books on your shelf. Get lost in a world of make-believe and before you know it it'll be time to enter the land of nod.

5. Pop to the supermarket and stock up on marshmallows, squirty cream and Cadburys hot chocolate to make yourself the hot drink of dreams. Pile those fluffy balls of goodness sky high and sip away your troubles. There's nothing a good cup of hot chocolate in front of the telly can't solve. We all deserve a treat in winter time.

What do you do to make the dark nights seem less daunting?

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Learning your self-worth

Confidence is a funny old thing. We often get our confidence from other people. Someone compliments our dress? We beam with pride. Someone notices we've lost a little bit of weight? Suddenly the soup diet seems worth it. But really everything is subjective. Different people like different things. That's what makes life worthwhile. You're never going to be everyone's cup of tea so why bother?

Your self worth isn't based solely on the number on the scales or how you look in a body con dress. Happiness isn't based on if you can fit into a size 8. It's based on what you can get out of this wonderful life we've been given. Don't get me wrong, I'd love to lose 20lbs and get back to my pre-20 year old weight. But I've also discovered the delights of the London food scene. So alas I'm not sure if that's entirely possible. We place far too much of our self-worth in other people. We thrive on how people perceive us. When really all that should matter is how you perceive yourself. No one should dictate how we feel inside.

We should strive to be the person we want to be. If people have something negative to say? Cut them loose. Don't get me wrong, it's hard. It's bloody hard. After being bombarded with magazines telling us what we can do to loose that stubborn five pounds and how life is much better when you're skinner, it can take it's toll on anyones confidence. Most people don't actually care what size jeans you wear, it's all in your head. So get that little gremlin out of your head. Start acting like a queen bee and soon other people will start treating you like one.

You should be proud to be you.

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Why a little self-praise goes a long way

Bigging yourself is hard isn't it? As a Brit I'm very self-deprecating and find it difficult to accept compliments gracelessly. I like to to think it's what makes us so charming as a nation. Some might disagree. Someone tells me that my dress looks nice? I often reply that's it's only an old Primark number and it was the only thing that didn't need ironing. Someone tells me that they enjoyed an article I've written? I often rip it to pieces and say oh I wish I'd popped this in.

We're often told that no one likes a bragger. No one likes someone who is overconfident about their abilities, their looks and their work. But sometimes you have to believe in yourself. Because if you don't believe you're capable of doing amazing things or that all your hard work has made into a little star, how do you expect anyone else too?

I often feel like a bit of a fraud. I work in an industry that is very subjective. One person could love your writing whereas another might think it needs a lot of work. That's what happens when you work in a creative industry. There is no right or wrong answer as colleagues all have different things that they look out for. I admit that my confidence was knocked following my redundancy and I seriously considered a career change. But then I freelanced at a handful of places and after seeing my work published, I began to think maybe I wasn't so bad at this writing lark after all. I just needed to believe in myself. To tell myself that I do have the skills and I'm actually not too shabby at stringing a few words together. It's incredible how much of a weight was lifted off my shoulders after I allowed myself to feel proud. How much my confidence grew.

It doesn't make yourself a bad person to praise your abilities. To say you know what? I'm actually bloody good at doing this and I don't care who knows. It's not about being a big head. It's about being proud at how far you've come and that your efforts have finally paid off.

You've got this. You just have to admit it yourself.

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Why it's ok to feel jealous

I'm not talking about jealously so consuming you want to cut up their clothes, key their car and boil their rabbit kinda thing. I'm talking about being a little bit envious. Feeling a little upset that they're having all the good things happen to them in life. It's totally normal to feel like this when you see someone doing well. Totally normal to want what they have.

Because what pushes us in life if it's not wanting to better ourselves? If it's not wanting what other people have? There's nothing like a good bit of healthy competition to give you the kick up the butt to achieve what you're capable of. How would we achieve our dreams if something isn't pushing us? It's human nature to think the grass is greener on the other side. But it's up to you to see if it's true by putting the hard graft in.

I'm going to hold my hands up and say I often get a bit down in the dumps that certain bloggers have all the best campaigns to work, get taken to exotic places, get to do their hobby as their blog and get dressed head to toe in ASOS for free. It's completely normal to think 'why them and not me'. The reason it's not me is because they have worked 10 times harder than me on their blog. They have lots of time to dedicate to their little space on the internet. I can have that too if I really want it - I just need to pull my socks up and push myself to be bigger and better.

Next time you feel green with envy, don't feel like an awful person. You're not. Simply use it fuel yourself to achieve bigger and better things. After all, you're capable of having what they have. Anyone is capable of anything. People who have achieved your dream have just put in the hours to make that dream their reality.

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Why you should do things that terrify you

The comfort zone. It's a lovely little place where you can cruise along at a nice, safe speed and have complete control of your life. But it's also freaking boring.  If everyone only ever stayed in their comfort zone, life wouldn't be as half as exciting.

When I was offered the once in a lifetime trip to road trip around the state of Illinois back in March, I could hardly believe my luck. I got to call that work? But there was a part of me that nearly passed it on to someone else in the team. I was going to have to spend over a week with people I didn't know, in a place I'd never been and it would require me to be on top form the entire time. In fact, I had such trouble sleeping the night before because I was so worried it was all going to be a disaster. As an only child I relish in my own company. Don't get me wrong, I love socialising and meeting new people. But I love nothing more then shutting myself off from the outside world and sitting in my own thoughts. After I went to Glastonbury - despite it being one of the best experiences of my life -, I had to be by myself for a good few days afterwards because I was exhausted at being in other people's company that I didn't know. Other only children will probably be able to relate! But saying yes to that US trip was one of the best things I've ever said. I can't even put into words how incredible that trip was. It sounds cheesy but I discovered things about myself that didn't realise I could do. I came back feeling so proud that I managed to travel to and from another country in one piece. Considering I once left my passport in Boots at Gatwick Airport!

I still remember the very first time I went to a blog event on my own without knowing anyone who was going to be there. Once again I very nearly pulled out when the blogger I was meant to meet up with couldn't go. But I put on my best smiling face, rocked up and made it my mission to chat to the very first person I came across. I was absolutely petrified inside - what if everyone thought I was a complete moron and they couldn't think of anything worse then chatting to me? But I did it and thought on the tube home about how much I got out of the evening because I didn't have one person to hide behind.

You only get one life. It'll be no good if you get to 90 and look back wishing that you took a tight, firm hold of everything that came your way. You want look back at the past and remember all the incredible things you got to do along the way. No one ever had a good story to tell by staying in their comfort zone. Try something that absolutely terrifies you and grab every opportunity with both hands.

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Why we need to help the Syrian refugees

Earlier this week I went for a run. Only a two mile run but still a run. As I ran through my local park, under the under paths and stopped to catch my breath, I suddenly thought that I was running for fun. A quite twisted type of fun. But still I was going out for a run because I wanted too. There are women that have to run to avoid being raped. Women who have to run because they need to get their child urgent medical attention. Families who are running to get out of a building before a bomb blows it to pieces. Families who are running to ensure their children stay children away from violence and gun fire. Children who are running to avoid being picked up as child soldiers. They are running because their life depends on it.

The Syrian refugee crisis is something that is causing a lot of strong opinions. In fact, my mum actually banned the subject at a family BBQ because she didn't want a family occasion to be fuelled with lots of shouting. I've seen a lot of posts on Facebook regarding the situation with many people shockingly posting images from the EDL. I've heard lots about how we need to sort out our own country first. Worried about the state of the NHS? Look at who you voted for. The Tory government is all about privatising the NHS. Those bad boys are the ones who are cutting budgets and putting a strain on our healthcare. Annoyed about the lack of houses? Blame Maggie Thatcher for selling off all the council houses. That's why we don't have any as people bettered themselves and invested in property. You go to the north of the country and there are rows and rows of derelict houses begging to have money pumped in to make the liveable. Something the government doesn't seem to be interested in. Scared that they're going to take all our jobs? There's a high unemployment rate in the whole world. Not just the UK. Plus I honestly believe there's enough jobs, just not enough jobs at proud people will do. Worried about the homeless? When was the last time you dug in your pocket and donated money to help then? Or went out onto the streets with hot food to hand out? Think they should stay and fight their own battles? They can't. Just like the Jewish people were powerless to stop Hitler in his tracks.

These people are not immigrants. They are refugees. There's a massive difference. They are not choosing to leave their country in hope for a better life. They are leaving their country because there is a high percentage that they will die if they stay. After the war is over, refugees are required to return to their home country. Would they really be risking their lives if there was a better option on offer? Are you telling me you would stay put? I would crawl to a safe haven if I had too.

I can't help but think if these were white, Christian refugees, the public might be a bit more forthcoming. Not every person from the Middle East is a fully fledged member of ISIS. Just like not every person from Northern Ireland is part of the IRA. Just like not every person from Israel wants to wipe out Palestine. Amongst the refugees there will be ordinary doctors, teachers and engineers desperate to escape a war-torn country.

Young people are impressionable. If we show them hatred, disgust and disrespect, who's to say they won't be swayed by someone else. That someone else could be ISIS. It's incredible the lengths a human being would go to keep their family safe. How they would make a deal with the devil. I know I would. There's only so much anger one person can take before they flip and inflict their rage on that person. That person could be the western society. We could be giving the tools to ISIS to help them with their brainwashing campaign.

The United Kingdom needs to step up and offer these poor souls a place of refuge. Why? Simply because it's the decent thing to do. No one should be forced to live a life in a warzone because of their circumstances. I was lucky to be born into a civilised democratic society. In a country that is the fourth richest in the world. A country where I am free to walk along outside as a woman. A country where I can travel on my own to soak up other cultures. A country where I can become anyone or anything that I want to be. That's all it is, just luck.

In times of need the world needs to stick together and help each other. It's about being a human being. Show some compassion. Put yourself in their shoes. Let's show the world just how great Great Britain is and lead by example.

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