50 Things I Want to Do This Christmas

The Christmas count down is officially on, so let's kick it off with a big list of goals for the festive season. 

This list is basically a to-do-list are all the things I want or need to do before Christmas is over, with everything from putting up Christmas decorations to going Christmas book shopping included on it. There are over 50 things on the list, so it's definitely a little over-ambitious and I'm unlikely to do them all, but I know I'm going to have fun trying to cross over as many as I can. I hope it gives you a little inspiration for things to do this Christmas, too!

So, here's 50 Things I Want to Do This Christmas:

1. Buy a Christmas tree for my bedroom.

2. Put up decorations in my bedroom. (I always decorate my bedroom for Christmas because I spend a lot of time resting because of my chronic pain, but still want to be able to enjoy some festive cheer).

3. Decorate the tree and rest of the house for Christmas with my family.

4. Buy or forage for some fir branches for the mantle.

5. Visit a Christmas market.

6. Have a browse around the Christmas department of a garden centre or department store.

7. Shop for treats in Millets' Christmas food haul.

8. Visit the Appleton Christmas Barn. (It's a little Christmas tree farm with a barn converted into a Christmas shop, and a few reindeer to see, near Abingdon in Oxfordshire. They always have the most gorgeous decorations to choose from).

9. Go to the Bourton-on-the-Water Christmas lights switch-on. Or at least visit the town to see the lights. (They have their Christmas tree sitting in the infamous river running through the town centre, so the lights twinkle on the water, making it super pretty)!

10. Go to my town's Christmas lights switch-on. (I've not been in years).

11. Take a drive to spot Christmas lights.

12. Go Christmas book shopping to pick out some new festive books to read over the holidays.

13. Go out for (or order in) hot chocolate.

14. Go out for a festive meal.

15. Get hot roasted chestnuts from a street vendor.

16. Finish my Christmas shopping. (I'm almost finished now- only a few things left to buy)!

17. Finish wrapping Christmas presents. (I've actually wrapped everything I've bought so far, as I started in November)!

18. Send Christmas parcels.

19. Write and send Christmas cards.

20. Make a new Christmas playlist.

21. Listen to lots of Christmas tunes.

22. Have at least one Christmas movie marathon. (But we all know there's gonna be lots of them)!

23. Watch a new-to-me Christmas film. (Any recommendations)?

24. See a festive film at the cinema. (Or failing that, stream a new release).

25. Read lots of Christmas books to help set the scene. I hope to read:

♥ Spectacular by Stephanie Garber.

♥ Letters to Father Christmas by Tolkien. (I've had it for about fifteen years, and have only ever read a few pages).

♥ The Penguin Book of Christmas Stories.

♥ A German Christmas. (I started it a year or two ago, but never finished it).

And I might reread:

♥ Little Women by Louisa May Alcott.

♥ A Court of Frost and Starlight by Sarah J. Maas.

♥ Midnight in Everwood by M. A. Kuzniar.

26. Listen to a Christmas audiobook.

27. Finish my Satsuma Street retro bauble cross stitches. (I started them a couple of years ago. I think I've made three and a half out of seven patterns so far).

28. Make my Cotton Clara 'It's the Most Wonderful Time of the Year' cross stich. (I've finished the stitching, and just need to finish the back).

29. Make my Cotton Clara Let it Snow Tasselled Embroidery Board Kit Christmas wall hanging.

30. If there's time, start the Muppet Christmas Carol cross stitches I bought on Black Friday.

31. Ger a frame for the Muppets Christmas Carol Christmas cards I bought to display a couple of Christmases ago.

32. Make Christmas crackers for our family Christmas meal. Or maybe just buy a pack, and embellish.

33. Finally make the snowglobe kit that I was gifted years ago.

34. Put together a Christmas Eve box.

35. Buy at least one new decoration.

36. Try to find a tree topper and garland I like for my bedroom tree.

37. Make my blackberry and apple trifle for Christmas Day.

38. Bake a new dessert. (I don't know what, but it would be nice to add in something new this year).

39. Bake and decorate Christmas cookies.

40. Bake Christmas brownies or cupcakes.

41. Treat the family to a box of Christmas doughnuts or cookies.

42. Find something delicious to make for Christmas Day breakfast. (Waffles, perhaps)?

43. Enjoy a Christmas buffet with the family on Christmas Eve.

44. Put together a sweet festive charcuterie board for our Christmas Eve family buffet.

45. Have Christmas dinner with my family on Christmas Day.

46. Play board games on Christmas Day.

47. Make my Animal Crossing island super festive.

48. Open Christmas presents with my dog. (She loves tearing open presents more than most kids)!

49. Dress Rosie (my dog) up in a Christmas jumper. (She will hate me)!

50. Wear every one of my Erstwilder Christmas brooches, and document them on Instagram.

51. Buy at least one new Christmas brooch. (Check! Actually, I've bought four... Post coming really soon).

52. Buy a new dress to wear on Christmas Day.

53. Get new Christmas PJs for Christmas morning.

54. Count down to Christmas with an Advent calendar. (I have the OPI Advent calendar this year, and will be reviewing it soon).

55. Donate presents and / or food to those in need.

56. Make and donate a Christmas box for a homeless person or child in need.

57. Take lots of photos, and share the best bits of the festivities on Instagram for my memories.

And most importantly, make sure I pace myself, and know when to admit defeat and rest!

I always over-do it trying to keep up with how I did Christmas pre-severe-chronic-pain, and end up unable to move for the pain for days after a simple task. I need to remember it's okay not to do it all, and alright if I have a quieter Christmas than everyone else.

It's okay if we don't have perfectly wrapped presents, an Instagram-worthy decorated home, or fun-filled plans every day. 

Nobody's Christmas is as perfect as they look in the movies, and at the end of the day, none of it is more important than our wellbeing. So, let's not put unnecessary pressure on ourselves this year, and try to go with the flow and enjoy ourselves instead!

What are you most excited to do this Christmas?

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My Goals for 2024

I had planned to write this post just after the New Year, but I've been feeling pretty rough these last couple of weeks, so as usual, I'm a little behind. I've had the worst migraine this past week, but now that it's clearing, I can finally play catch-up, so, let's do this.

Today, I'm going to share my goals for the year ahead... as boring and predictable as they probably are.

Realistically, I know I'm very unlikely to be able to achieve any big, life-changing resolutions with my health being the way it is, but I still like to set myself lots of little goals to keep myself on my toes. This year has been no different, and I guess most of my goals aren't, either. They're mostly related to reading, creative hobbies, and local places I want to visit- just little things to keep myself challenged and occupied, that I might have a chance of achieving on better pain days. I'm not up to trekking around the globe or doing extreme sports, so if reading a bunch of books and having a day out at my local zoo is the best I can hope for, I'm going to take it. It's better than doing nothing, right?

So, here are some of my goals for the year ahead.

Read At Least 40 Books

I'm hoping to read as much as possible in 2024. I've kept my reading goal for the year low at 40 books to make it achievable, but I hope I can read even more. I'm already on my 4th book of the year so far, so I'm off to a decent start. If you want to keep up with what I'm reading, come say hello on Goodreads and Storygraph.

Keep Up to Date With My Reading Journal

I started keeping a reading journal last summer, and I'm loving having a place to record what I've read, and my thoughts and favourite quotes from each book. I want to continue with it this year, and try to update it after each book read while my thoughts are still fresh in my mind. 

Do More Cross Stitching

I used to cross stitch every day, but did so little last year as I was so uninspired. So, I want to try to find my sewing mojo in 2024, and do much more stitching. It's such a relaxing hobby, and with all the modern kits and patterns, it's not just for old ladies anymore.

Finish At Least One Embroidery

I also want to improve my embroidery 'skills' and finish at least one piece of hoop art this year. I began this one for Halloween, but never got far, so that one's on my list to finish, but I also saw this cute Easter design I'm thinking of attempting.

Paint Regularly

Last year, I really enjoyed watercolour painting as a way to relax. Well, when I say 'painting' it's more like 'colouring-in colouring books with paint' as I have little artistic skill, but the main thing is, I enjoy it and find it relaxing, so who cares? I want to do more of it when I get good pain days.

Eat Healthier and Lose Weight

I hate focusing on weight and diets as all bodies are good bodies and people shouldn't be shamed for their size, but I've been feeling really unhappy in my own skin since I gained a little weight, so I need to do something about it. I don't feel like myself anymore and I hate it. For my own mental health, I want to make an effort to eat healthier and hopefully shed some of those extra pounds, but without being able to exercise regularly or vigorously like I used to pre-chronic-pain, I doubt I'm gonna lose it easily.

Get an Eye Test and New Glasses

I think my most important goal right now is getting myself down to Specsavers for an eye test and new glasses. I've been putting it off since before Covid, and I think I'm now six years over-due. My vision keeps going blurry from eye strain (at least, I hope that's all it is), and I really need to see an optician before it gets any worse. I'm going to book myself as soon as my migraine has gone. I'm really looking forward to getting some sexy new glasses after years of wearing the same pair every day.

Get My Hair Cut

I also need to prioritise a hair cut, since my hair is almost long enough to sit on again, and I currently resemble a reclusive old witch who lives in a creepy old house with her familiars, and drinks margaritas at midnight while dancing around the kitchen. (Honestly, sign me up- that sounds awesome)! It's been almost three years since my last hair cut, so it's time to get my hair cut back into a more manageable length. But first: roots.

Overhaul My Bookshelf

One of my next missions will be tackling my bookshelves. I need a bigger bookshelf, but in the meantime, I need to have a rejig, and cull some books to fit in all the beautiful copies I've bought in recent months. I don't like thinking of my poor babies stacked up on the floor. I don't want to give up any of my collection, but I think I'm going to have to as I've no place to store them. 

Have a Thorough Clear Out

Speaking of spring cleaning, I also want to have a decent tidy and clear out of other stuff, like my wardrobe, dressing table, craft supplies, and the hallway cupboard. I don't know why, but I feel the need to declutter, and let go of stuff I no longer use or need.

Take a Holiday

I wasn't able to go on holiday last year and I'm not sure if one's on the cards this year, either, but I'd love to get away to Cornwall for at least a few days this summer. Hell, I'd be happy to get away almost anywhere if it meant a change of scenery for a while.

Visit the Beach

I'd also like to spend some time at the seaside this year. It's been a year and a half since I last saw the sea, and I miss it so much. A day trip to the beach would make me so happy.

Go to The Cotswold Wildlife Park

I haven't visited my local zoo in over two years, so I want to fit in at least one visit this year. It's a really gorgeous, relaxing place to visit, and I think it's good to push myself to the point of collapse with my chronic pain every now and then to get some exercise and fresh air. 

Go to the London Aquarium

This probably sounds so random, but one thing I'd love to do is revisit the London aquarium. I last went about fifteen years ago and remember really enjoying myself, and I've wanted to go back for a while. As a big animal lover, I've always found sea life so fascinating, and it's one of the best aquariums I've ever visited. Maybe I'll have to pay it a visit for my birthday this July?

Visit the Confetti, Lavender, and Sunflower Fields

I've been wanting to visit local flower fields for the last few years, and still haven't managed it. We were planning to go to see the confetti fields near Worcester last summer, but I ended up with an awful chronic pain flare on the day we'd planned to go, so we missed it. I'm hoping for better luck this summer. I'd love to go see some colourful flower fields.

Go to the Bluebell Woods

I'd also like to take a walk in our local woods when the bluebells flower this spring. We went a little too late last year, and missed them, too. 

Do more Touristy Things in Oxford

Oxford has always been my local city, but I haven't done nearly enough exploring of its attractions or hidden gems. I'm eager to spend some days being a tourist in my own city, and visit more of its museums, galleries, beautiful old buildings etc, and maybe have a walk or a picnic down by one of the river banks where people go punting on the Thames. It's such a beautiful city.

And those are some of my little goals for 2024.

Have you set yourself any goals or resolutions for the year ahead?

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50 Things I Want To Do This Christmas

 I can't believe it's already December!

Christmas is coming around so quickly. I think the big day will be here before we know it.

There are so many things I need or want to do between now and Christmas Day, so keeping with tradition, I've written a to-do-list and am sharing it here to keep myself motivated. I doubt I'll be able to achieve all of them before the 25th, but I'm determined to give it my best shot, and try to cross off as many festive goals as possible. 

There are 50 of them on this list, so I guess I'd best get started. Wish me luck!

1. Buy a small Christmas tree for my bedroom- I'm hoping to do this in the next day or two.

2. Decorate my bedroom for Christmas- I like to put up decorations in my room so I can enjoy them while I'm resting in bed.

3. Decorate the house for Christmas with the family.

4. Buy (or cut down) fir branches for the mantle.

5. Finish my Christmas shopping- I only have a few presents left to get and then I'm done!

6. Finish wrapping my Christmas presents- I started wrapping last month, so I don't have too many left to do now.

7. Send any parcels that need sending.

8. Write and send my Christmas cards- and not at the last minute!

9. Make a new Christmas playlist or two to soundtrack my festive activities.

10. Count down the days 'til Christmas with an Advent calendar- I'll be doing that with the Essie calendar, as well as a basic Cadbury one this year.

11. Go to the Appleton Christmas Barn to browse their Christmas decorations- It's a little Christmas tree farm with a barn converted in to a Christmas shop near Abingdon in Oxfordshire, and they always have the prettiest decorations. Also, there's reindeer to see.

12. Go to the Bourton-on-the-Water Christmas lights switch on.

13. Go to my town's turning-on-of-the-lights.

14. Visit a Christmas market.

15. Browse the Christmas department of a garden centre or department store.

16. Take a drive to spot Christmas lights- If I can't get out earlier, we usually do this after dinner on Christmas Eve night.

17. Go on a Christmas lights walk.

18. Go Christmas book shopping- Like I need an excuse to go book shopping!

19. Watch a Christmas film at the cinema.

20. Buy at least one new decoration.

21. Reread A Court of Frost and Starlight.

22. Read The Nutcracker- I've always wanted to but never have. I've just bought this beautiful Arcturus Ornate Classics edition with my Waterstones points, and I'm hoping it gets here before Christmas.

23. Read Upon a Frosted Star.

24. Read A German Christmas- I started reading it last year but never finished it.

25. Reread A Christmas Carol.

26. Reread Little Women- It's a classic, and one of my favourite books set at Christmas time.

27. Have at least one Christmas movie marathon- but I'm hoping for many.

28. Watch at least one new-to-me Christmas film- any recommendations?

29. Finish my Christmas bauble cross stitches- I began these Satsuma Street retro baubles last year (or was it the one before?) but never managed to finish all seven.

30. Dig out the paints and relax with a Christmas colouring book.

31. Make and decorate Christmas cookies.

32. Bake Christmas cupcakes.

33. Make my Blackberry and Apple trifle.

34. Try making a new dessert for over the holidays.

35. Put together a Christmas charcuterie dessert board.

36. Buy a box of Christmas doughnuts or cookies.

37. Go out for / order in a hot chocolate.

38. Go for a Christmas afternoon tea / festive cake and coffee.

39. Put a Christmas Eve box together.

40. Buy a new pair of Christmas PJs.

41. Get myself a Christmas dress for Christmas Day.

42. Wear the shit out of my Christmas brooches and earrings- and try to document them on Instagram.

43. Make my Animal Crossing island super festive- I'm already enjoying building Christmas rooms and adding lots of festive furniture outside.

44. Play board games with the family on Christmas Day.

45. Dress my dog, Rosie, up in a Christmas jumper and accessories- Yes, she will hate me!

46. Open presents with my dog- Rosie lives for opening presents and it's one of my favourites parts of Christmas Day.

47. Donate to a foodbank.

48. Fill a Christmas box for a homeless person- Little gifts like warm gloves and scarves, chocolate, shower gel, and toothpaste can make such a difference to someone with nothing and no family to spend Christmas with.

49. Enjoy a Christmas Eve buffet with my family- We relax in front of the TV and a Christmas film or two with lots of tasty treats and it's a lovely, chilled way to spend a Christmas Eve.

50. Celebrate Christmas Day with the family- Can't wait!

There are probably other things I want to do that I'm forgetting, but we'll stop at 50.

What's at you most looking forward to doing this Christmas / holiday season?

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Autumn Goals

Happy first day of autumn!

I can't believe it's already here.

I have no idea where the year has gone or how we're already in late September. I've left the house so few times this year because my health has been so bad, that I feel like I've lost and wasted the last nine months of my life. I've done lots of little things I've enjoyed from home like reading and painting, of course, but that doesn't really feel like living life to the full. But the good thing about autumn is that it feels like a brand new chapter in the year, and a second chance to get stuff done and squeeze in some new experiences before the year is through. So I'm ready and willing to play catch-up. 

I don't know why I always feel so inspired and motivated to get things done, do fun little things, and get out and about at this time of year, but there are so many things I'd love to do this autumn. I thought it would be fun to share my autumn goals with you today, so that's what I'm gonna do.

Here are my goals for autumn:

Make a Halloween embroidery

I really want to make a Halloween embroidery this year. Every year I plan to make one but never think about it early enough, so I never have. This year is going to be different. I just bought a couple of fun patterns from Beco Productions on Etsy- the Halloween Rainbow pattern and It's the Most Wonderful Time of the Year Halloween pattern, and the supplies I need, and I can't wait to get started. I'm just waiting on some tracing paper so I can transfer the pattern on to the fabric, and then I'll be ready to go. 

Carve a pumpkin

I don't know why mutilating pumpkins is so fun, but I'm here for it.

Paint pumpkins

I've wanted to try pumpkin painting for a while now. Maybe this year I'll actually make the effort to get some cheap paints from Hobbycraft, and give it a go.

Take an autumn walk

I'd love to go on an autumn walk when the leaves are falling, mostly just so I can crunch through heaps of fallen leaves. I love being out in the fresh air, but there's something about going for a walk when the trees are colourful and there's a crisp chill biting at your cheeks that you just can't beat.

Take an autumn drive through The Cotswolds

It's not lost on me that I live in one of the prettiest parts of England, and while it's gorgeous all year round, you have to see it in autumn when the leaves change. I really want to go for a drive through the countryside when they do, just to take it all in, do some exploring, and maybe find somewhere new to stop and buy some treats.

Decorate for autumn

I need to make time to start digging out my pumpkin decorations to make the house feel more autumnal. And maybe buy a few munchkin pumpkins to add in, too.

Visit a pumpkin patch

I'd love to visit a pumpkin patch to pick out a pumpkin or two. I've still never been to one.

Try something pumpkin spiced

Everyone seems obsessed with pumpkin-spice-flavoured food and drink at this time of year, but I've never tried it, so I want to see what all the fuss is about this autumn. Any recommendations?

Go autumn book shopping

I never need an excuse to go book shopping and I definitely don't need any new books, but I'd still love to do a little book shopping to find some new reads for cosying up with as the nights draw in.

Watch lots of cosy autumn movies

I can't wait to curl up with some seasonal, cosy, and creepy movies on chilly autumn nights and afternoons. It's definitely my favourite time of year for movie-watching.

Fix my Halloween brooch so I can wear it again.

The brooch backs on a couple of my autumn / Halloween Erstwilder brooches broke from falls to the floor a couple of years ago, and I still haven't repaired them. I've put it off long enough, so I'm determined to repair them ASAP. I just need to buy the right brooch backs so I can get started.

Watch some fireworks

I'd love to go watch some fireworks on Bonfire Night. I used to go to a fireworks display every year, but it's been a long time since I last made it to one.

Visit The Cotswold Wildlife Park

I haven't been to my local zoo in almost two years, so I'm hoping to fit in a visit this autumn. It's so pretty there when the leaves change, and they've just had two rhino calves born that I'd love to go see.

Bake something delicious

I used to love baking, but can't remember the last time I made anything. Chronic back pain makes standing and sitting up long enough to cook pretty unbearable, but I want to try and power through and make something delicious this fall. And I'd also like to try making French onion soup again, especially as my sister keeps requesting it.

Buy a cosy new blanket / bedding

I've been making do with a Christmas blanket for a while, so I really need to get a new blanket to curl up with when it's cold. And I'd really love a cosy new bedding set, too. 

Get a hair cut

I must get myself down to the hairdresser's for a hair cut ASAP. It's been over two years since my last hair cut, and my hair is so long and shapeless, I feel like an old hippy. I can't wait to get it chopped off and styled again.

Buy new ankle boots

I've been on the lookout for a new pair of black ankle boots for ages, but still haven't found a pair I like. It's about time I stopped being so fussy and settled on a pair to get me through a/w.

Have a good clear out

I want to continue decluttering my bedroom, and hope to get started on my wardrobe, dressing table, and craft drawers before Christmas. I have too much stuff that doesn't fit me or I don't use anymore, so it's time to let it go.

See Fall Out Boy in November

Fall Out Boy are touring in the UK in November and I'm dying to go see them. I hope I can; they're always amazing live. Here's hoping I can get some last minute tickets for London or Cardiff.

Read Iron Flame and A Curse For True Love

Anyone else looking forward to the release of A Curse for True Love in October, and Iron Flame in November? I can't wait to read them! I'll be clearing my day to read them on their release days.

Make my Animal Crossing island all autumnal

I'm still addicted to Animal Crossing New Horizons (shocker!), and I'm looking forward to making my island look like autumn and Halloween threw up on it. The seasonal aspect to the game is such a fun way to enjoy the seasons.

And those are some of my goals for the next few months. I doubt I'll be able to achieve them all, but I'm looking forward to giving it my best shot.

What's on your to-do-list this autumn?

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Goals For 2023

I'm a little late to the party as I've been a little under the weather lately, but I'm back with my annual list of goals for the year ahead.

I don't set myself big New Year's resolutions that I'm unlikely to ever achieve- who wants to feel like a failure?- but I do like to challenge myself with lots of smaller goals to aim towards and keep myself on my toes. They're nothing too exciting or interesting, but I thought I'd share my list anyway, in an attempt to motivate myself and make myself accountable.

So, here are my goals for 2023:

Read at least 40 books

I've set myself a new Goodreads reading challenge for 2023, and hope to read at least 40 books this year. I've played it safe with the number to make it achievable, but I'm hoping to read even more, and would at least like to beat last year's tally of 46, if I can. I'm already on my third book of the year, so I'm off to a strong start.

Collect lots of pretty books

Beautiful books are a real weakness of mine, and after recently discovering book subscription companies like Owlcrate, Fairyloot, and Illumicrate, who sell the most stunning books, I'm eager to continue indulging my passion, and collect the prettiest editions for as many new book purchases as possible. I just treated myself to the Illumicrate editions of Ninth House and Hell Bent by Leigh Bardugo and I'm so excited.

Do lots more cross stitching

I barely did any cross stitching last year, but I want to find my mojo, and sew a lot more regularly this year. I just need to find some patterns I like. I've been so uninspired lately.

Make an embroidery

I'd also like to finish an embroidery. I bought a kit from Cotton Clara in 2020 that I still haven't made, so I think it's been neglected long enough. Time to get stitching.

Learn to crochet and make the Hello Kitty / Pusheen plushie

I've been saying for years that's I want to learn to crochet, and still haven't, but I'm hoping 2023 will be the year. I bought a cute kit last year- a Hello Kitty doll dressed up like Pusheen- which I'd hoped would encourage me to get started, but as a novice, learning how to start using video tutorials was harder than I expected, and I've realised I need someone to show me the ropes first. I'm hoping I can get my Mum to teach me the basics, and then attempt to crochet the doll as my first crochet project.

Get out of the house more

Aside from a week's holiday to Cornwall in September, I can count on two hands how many times I left the house for any reason last year (including my medical appointments, which have fizzled out since Covid), and let's be honest, that's not much of a life. I've been finding the isolation and lack of excitement in my life hard lately, so I'm eager to try to push myself more, and do my best to leave the house more often this year

Go to at least one concert

I haven't got any concerts booked as yet, but I'm itching for some live music, and hope I get to go to at least one this year. Going a year without a gig is just wrong.

Take a cinema trip

It's been about a decade since I last went to the cinema because it became too painful with my spinal pain, and it's one of those little things I really miss doing in life. I always used to go at least once a month. I'd love to try to go see a new film at least once this year, and see how I cope with it now, even if it leaves me in agony. 

Sight-see around Dorset

When I was looking up tour buses for my last holiday to Cornwall, I discovered there's one in Dorset called the Jurassic Coaster that travels along the south coast from Poole to Weymouth, taking you through places like Durdle Door, Lulworth Cove, and Dorchester in between. I haven't seen a lot of Dorset since I was little, so I'd love to spend a day doing a bit of sight-seeing there in the summer. It's only a two hour drive to Poole from where I live, and the Jurassic Coaster seems like an easy, inexpensive way to explore without  being too physically demanding. I'm keeping my fingers crossed for a bit of summer sight-seeing.

Take a holiday

I'm not sure if a holiday is on the cards for me this year or not, but I'd very much like to take one, and get away from it all for a week.

Go to Longleat Safari Park

I'd still love to visit Longleat safari park this spring/ summer, particularly because they have koalas and wombats now, and I've never seen either animal in real life before.

Visit confetti, lavender, and sunflower fields

I was hoping to visit some local flower fields last year, but it never happened due to car issues in the summer, so I'm going to aim to visit some this year, too. I'd love to go visit local sunflower, lavender, and confetti fields, if only to see a sea of colour, and take some pretty photos. The confetti fields are fields of flowers grown for wedding confetti, near Pershore in Worcestershire, and they sound lovely.

Visit the bluebell woods

In the spring, I would also like to go to a local bluebell woods when they flower and carpet the woods in a seemingly endless sea of violet. It always looks so pretty. I did technically go to see them last year, but we arrived too late to see them flowering.

Buy a new camera

I desperately need to save up for a new camera, after breaking my bridge camera in September. (The lens has jammed, and I'm told it's unfixable). I've had to fall back on using an ancient point and shoot camera with a scratched lens or my seriously out-of-date phone for my blog and Instagram photos, and the quality of my photos makes me want to cry. I won't be able to afford anything fancy, but I want to at least find one with similar specs to my old one. Best get saving.

Decorate my bedroom

My bedroom hasn't been painted in about a decade and desperately needs a refresh, so here's hoping 2023 is the year. I'm sick to death of looking at blue walls, and fancy going with white or cream to brighten things up a bit and make all my colourful possessions stand out better.

Continue operation clear-out

Having recently tackled my bookshelves and under my bed, I want to continue my long-over-due mission to spring clean everything. Next on my list are my wardrobe and the hallway cupboard, which I've been using as an extra wardrobe, and currently looks like a junk closet from a cartoon. If I can clear out both this year, I'll be happy.

Build my wardrobe back up

I also really want to start building my wardrobe back up this year. A lot of my clothes no longer fit me, as I've gone up a dress size over the last few years from living housebound, and as someone who loves clothes, it's depressing. I feel horrible in everything, so I haven't bothered to shop for new clothes much, but it's about time I did. I'm beginning to look like a street urchin.

And those are some of my little goals for the year ahead.

Have you set yourself any goals or resolutions for 2023?

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50 Things I Want To Do This Christmas

It's the first of December, so that means the countdown to Christmas is officially on, and things are going to turn festive here for the next few weeks. 

I'm going to kick off the yuletide fun with a list of festive goals I've set myself for the month. 50 of them, to be exact. There are so many things I need and want to do before Christmas arrives, from decorating my home for Christmas to wrapping presents, and going to a Christmas market to making Christmas cookies, so if you're looking for some ideas for what to do this Christmas, you should find plenty of ideas here.

Here's 50 things I want to do this Christmas:

1. Buy a little Christmas tree for my bedroom.

2. Put up decorations in my bedroom.

3. Decorate my home for Christmas

4. Finish my Christmas shopping. (I still have quite a few gifts to buy, but I'm getting there).

5. Finish wrapping Christmas presents. (I began wrapping presents in November to take some of the pressure off this month, so I've actually got most of them wrapped already. Go me)!

6. Write this year's Christmas cards, and get them sent early.

7. Complete the Christmas cross stitch projects I'm working on. (I'm currently stitching these Christmas baubles from Satsuma Street, but on white aida).

8. Finally make the DIY snowglobe I was given that's been waiting to be made for about seven years... (I must get around to it this year).

9. Read The Penguin Book of Christmas Stories.

10. Read A German Christmas: Festive Tales from Berlin to Bavaria.

11. Read Midnight in Everwood by M.A. Kuzniar. (Apparently, it's loosely based on The Nutcracker).

12. Reread Little Women.

13. Have at least one Christmas movie marathon. (Who am I kidding? I'll have lots of them)!

14. Watch at least one Christmas film I've never seen before.

15. Make a new Christmas playlist and listen to lots of Christmas tunes.

16. Play board-games with my family on Christmas Day.

17. Go to my town's Christmas lights switch-on. (I haven't made it in years).

18. Visit Bourton-on-the-Water's Christmas lights switch-on- or if I miss it, visit the town one evening to see the lights and do some Christmas shopping.

19. Take a trip to the Appleton Christmas Barn. (It's a little Christmas tree farm near Abingdon in Oxfordshire with a barn converted in to a Christmas shop and some reindeer to see. They always have the loveliest decorations, so my sister and I go every year).

20. Go to the Warner Bros. Harry Potter studio tour for Hogwarts in the Snow. (I've wanted to go for years, but still haven't made it).

21. Visit Longleat Safari Park for The Festival of Light Christmas light trail. (Apparently, this year it's Roald Dahl themed).

22. Go to a Christmas market. (I'm not sure I've even ever been to one).

23. Browse the Christmas department at a local garden centre or department store.

24. Go Christmas shopping in person to soak up the festive atmosphere.

25. Go out for hot chocolate. (Preferably at Hotel Chocolat because yum).

26. Go out for a festive meal.

27. Go book shopping and chose at least one new book to read over Christmas. (I'd love to make this one a new tradition).

28. Take a drive to spot Christmas lights.

29. Buy at least one new Christmas decoration.

30. Bake and decorate Christmas cookies.

31. Bake and ice Christmas cupcakes.

32. Make a yule log.

33. Put together a sweet festive charcuterie board for our Christmas Eve buffet.

34. Make my Blackberry and Apple trifle on Christmas Eve.

35. Buy a box of Christmas doughnuts for the family to enjoy.

36. Try a mince pie. (I haven't eaten one since I was little, when I didn't like them, and I'm curious as to whether I might like them now).

37. Craft some homemade Christmas crackers for our Christmas meal.

38. Put together festive table favours for Christmas dinner. (I might make it simple and just buy everyone a Chocolate Santa this year).

39. Dig out the paints and destress with a Christmas colouring book.

40. Make a Christmas pom pom wreath in the shape of a star. (I've had the wreath frame for a few years, and still haven't got around to making it).

41. Take photos of my dog dressed up for Christmas. (Because she will get dressed up for Christmas)!

42. Enjoy the festivities on Animal Crossing, and make my island look super festive.

43. Put together a Christmas Eve box to enjoy as we wind-down for Christmas.

44. Add lots of Christmas photos to Instagram to make my grid and Stories look festive.

45. Blog Christmas content as often as I can.

46. Treat myself to a new dress to wear on Christmas Day.

47. Buy a new pair of Christmas pyjamas to wear on Christmas morning.

48. Open presents with my dog. (Rosie loves opening presents, and gets so excited on Christmas morning. It's really cute)!

49. Donate to a foodbank. (Christmas is going to be tough for a lot of people this year, thanks to the Cost of Living crisis, so it's more important to donate than ever. I don't have much to spare myself, but I hope next time I'm at the supermarket I can donate a little for those who have it worse).

50. Put together a shoe-box parcel for a homeless person. (I can't imagine how hard it must be living out on the cold streets, especially while everyone around you is going home to a safe, warm house laden with shopping bags filled with presents and indulgent food, completely oblivious. I can't help thinking about it, and if I can make someone's Christmas a little brighter by gifting a parcel full of treats and essentials, why wouldn't I)?

I'm definitely being a little too ambitious with my to-do-list this month, and it's unlikely I'll achieve everything on the list, but I'm going to have fun trying to cross off as many of them as I can. Wish me luck!

What festive activities are you most looking forward to doing this Christmas?

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Autumn Goals

I can't believe that we're already a week in to September! Where have the last eight months of the year gone?! I feel like I blinked and missed them- but that's probably because I've only left the house a handful of times all year, and haven't been out living life to the full. I honestly feel like I've missed the whole summer, and it makes me a little sad to think of all the things I've not done this year. 

But, hey; it's September and we're heading in to autumn, so it's time for fresh starts and second chances. I'm so excited for the last third of the year, and hopeful that I'm able to enjoy the next few months a little more, and make up for lost time. I'm already thinking about all the fun autumn things I want to do over the next couple of months, as well as some other less-seasonal tasks, and I thought I'd talk about some of them today to try to encourage myself to start doing them, and make myself accountable. Maybe it'll work this year.

These are some of my autumn goals:

Take a Holiday to Cornwall

Okay, it's not autumnal, but my first goal for the month is to make it through a week's holiday to Cornwall. We're going away soon, and I can't wait to be back by the sea in one of my favourite places, taking in all the familiar sights, sounds, and smells, doing some sight-seeing, and eating lots of yummy food. Some of the things I hope to do while I'm there include:

♥ Visit Perranporth Beach

♥ Explore Portreath.

♥ Go to Padstow.

♥ Spend a day at St. Ives

♥ Get Rick Stein Fish 'n' Chips

♥ Take a walk on the beach.

♥ Paddle in the sea.

♥ Sight see by tour bus.

♥ Go on a boat trip to try to spot some sea life.

♥ Dine at some cool restaurants,

♥ Find some good independent book shops to bankrupt myself in.

Take a Walk in the Woods When the Leaves Fall

I'd really like to take a walk in the woods when the leaves fall to take in all of the beautiful colours, enjoy the fresh air, and hear the leaves crunch beneath my boots. 

Crunch Through Fallen Leaves

Maybe I'm just a big child, but there's something so satisfying about the sound of dead leaves crunching underfoot, and getting buried in leaves up to your shins. I want lots of that this year, please. It reminds me of being little.

Visit a Pumpkin Patch

I've still never visited a pumpkin patch, and would love to go to one to pick out a pumpkin or two, and take a few photos for the 'gram.

Carve a Pumpkin

I wasn't well enough to carve a pumpkin last Halloween, so fingers crossed I'll be able to carve one this fright night. It's tradition.

Bake an Apple Pie

I haven't baked in ages because it hurts my back too much these days, but I miss baking something tasty from scratch, and want to try to make an apple pie this autumn. I mean, seriously- is there anything better than warming up with a freshly-baked slice of apple pie and custard straight from the oven on a chilly autumn evening? It's the best autumn comfort food ever.

Read Lots

Autumn is one of my favourite times of the year for reading. I don't know why, but there's something extra cosy about curling up under a blanket in bed and burying your nose in a good book when there's a crisp chill in the air, and an explosion of autumn colour to inspire the imagination. I want to find plenty of time to read this autumn, and work on completing my Goodreads reading goal before the busy Christmas season slows me down. I'm currently on book 32 of the year, and only have another 8 to go to hit my goal, so it should be doable if I keep up my current pace.

Go to a Fireworks Display

I'd really like to make it to a fireworks display on Bonfire Night. I haven't gone to one in over a decade now, and I miss it. I used to go every year since childhood to the one on my local RAF base, and I hear this year could be the last year they have one, as they're set to build on the playing field where it's always been held. It'll be the end of an era, so I have to go one last time.

Make my Animal Crossing Island Look All Autumnal

In case you were wondering (of course you weren't), I'm still addicted to Animal Crossing New Horizons, and I can't wait to start enjoying the autumn season in game. I've just started a new island, and I'm looking forward to making it look super autumnal with pumpkins and spooky stuff everywhere. I'm currently working on building a farm area so I can make a cute little pumpkin patch.

Make a Halloween Cross Stitch

I've never made a Halloween cross stitch before, and I think 2022 is the year to change that. I just need to find a cool pattern I like.

Watch Lots of Autumn Movies

I love a good movie marathon during the autumn months, and I'm already itching to watch all the cosy autumn movies and creepy classics. Actually, screw horror movies, I'm most looking forward to rewatching Practical Magic, You've Got Mail, Hocus Pocus, and War of the Worlds.

Visit The Cotswold Wildlife Park

I haven't paid a visit to my local zoo yet this year, which is just wrong, so I'm hoping to find time to go in the next month or so. It would be weird to go a year without making the pilgrimage, and they've just had some Pallas cat kittens that I'd love to go see. 

Take an Autumn Drive Through The Cotswolds

I live on the edge of The Cotswolds, and it's particularly beautiful during the fall, when there's a backdrop of fiery colours everywhere you turn. Sometimes we go on autumn drives through the countryside and pretty little villages just to take it all in, and it's something I'd like to do again this year. You never know what you're going to find. 

Revamp My Bookshelves

There's one thing I must do this season, and that's finally finding the spoons to reorganise my bookshelves. I've been needing to  declutter and revamp them for a couple of years, and with piles of books getting closer and closer to the ceiling, I really can't leave it much longer. I began moving my DVDs out of their cases in to a couple of folders in August, so I just need to get some boxes so I can store the empty cases, and then I'll have more rooms for books, and be able to start organising them. I need to be ruthless and get rid of anything I no longer love or can't see myself rereading, and by the time I'm done, I should have lovely, tidy bookshelves with room left over for lots of new ones.

Have a Clear Out

I also want to try to start decluttering the rest of my bedroom. I'm so over all the mess. I've got too many things that I no longer use and a lot that I've just out grown over the years, as my tastes have changed, and I've got older. I want to go through everything and sell or donate anything I no longer want or need- even if I know realistically I'll probably not get enough 'good' pain days to do it all before the New Year. What would take me an afternoon pre-chronic-pain now takes me years. I at least hope to make a start on having a clear out, even if I only manage to get through one area, like my wardrobe or under my bed.

Buy a New Pair of Ankle Boots

I desperately need a new pair of black wear-with-everything ankle boots as I wore out my last pair, so I need to buy a pair this season. Hopefully I'll actually find some I like this year, as last year's selection of wide-fit boots was crap.

Start My Christmas Shopping

I can't believe I'm saying this because I'd swear it was Christmas two minutes ago, but it's the time of year when I like to actively start Christmas shopping. It might seem early, but starting early is the only way I can afford to get my family and friends gifts, and it's the best way to spread the cost and find the best presents before all the good things sell out. Time to get on it. I want to be organised early this year.

There are more goals on my autumn bucket list, but I've waffled on enough already, so I'll stop here. Plus, this is more than enough to keep me busy for a while. I don't know if I'll be able to achieve them all, but I hope I can, and I'm going to give them all my best shot. Wish me luck!

What's on your to-do-list this autumn?

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My Goals For 2022

Last year was not my best year for achievements. I didn't visit many places, I wasn't able to meet any new people, I didn't reach any milestones, and the less said about how little I blogged, the better. I can blame some of it on pain, illness, Covid and lockdown, but I admit I was also unmotivated and uninspired, and felt a bit 'meh' towards life in 2021. But then, who didn't?

I hope 2022 will be a much better year, and that I can find the motivation and pain tolerance to achieve more this year. As usual, there are loads of things I would like to make time for during the year ahead, from visiting new places and going to gigs again, to crafting more, and smashing my Goodreads reading goal, and much more. I'm going to talk about some of my goals for 2022 with you today, to make myself accountable, and hopefully motivate myself in to achieving at least some of them before the year is through. (Yes, I know it's a bit late to be talking New Year's resolutions, but hey, when do I ever do anything on time?!)

So, here are some of my goals for 2022:

Read 40 Books

After reading 42 books in 2021, I want to keep up my reading pace again this year, and make time to read (almost) every day. (I say 'almost', as there's always a few days when it's just not possible). I've set myself a new Goodreads reading challenge of 40 books for 2022, but I hope to read more, and beat last year's tally. I'm only on book five of the year so far, so I need to pick up the pace if I want to make it.

Take a Holiday to Cornwall

If I can get one thing out of 2022, it would be a holiday to Cornwall. We've just booked a week in Perranporth for early summer, and I can't wait for a week of sun, sea, sand, and sight-seeing. I'd love to fit in visits to St. Ives, Portreath, Mawgan Porth, and the seal sanctuary while we're there, and also take a tour bus along the coast again, either down to The Lizard or along to Land's End, as I've not seen much of those parts of Cornwall. I also want to paddle in the sea at Perranporth, walk on Porth Beach, take a boat trip to spot some sea life, and return to Gridl for breakfast. The reality is, I'll probably be spending most of the time in the caravan resting because it'll be painful and exhausting, but I want to be optimistic, and believe I can have some fun, too. 

Go to a Concert

Thanks to Covid, it's been over two years since my last concert, and it's been torture. Gigs are life. I'm having major withdrawals, so I hope I can satisfy my cravings with at least one gig in 2022. I need a live music fix.

Do More Cross Stitching

I love cross stitching, but I did very little of it in 2021, and only finished one piece all year. I just couldn't find the motivation. I'd like to find my groove with it again this year, cross stitch regularly, and make lots of pieces. I've already been working on some retro Christmas bauble designs I didn't have time to finish over Christmas, so I'm off to a good start.

Do More Painting

I want to make more time for water-colour painting. I didn't dig out the paints often in 2021, but it's something I enjoy and find relaxing, so I really should try to do more of it.

Make Something With a Loom

I bought a small circular loom a few years ago and still haven't made anything with it, so it's about time I did. I don't have a clue what to make with it, but I always thought weaving looked like fun. Maybe 2022 will be the year I find out if I'm right. Or maybe it won't.

Explore More Local Places

I've lived in The Cotswolds all my life, but there's so much of it I've never been to or explored properly, and I'd like to change that. I want to do more exploring close to home this year, and see what cool places we can find.

Visit the Bluebell Woods

I'd love to go for a walk in the woods when the bluebells flower this spring, especially as we never made it last year. There's a woods near Faringdon in Oxfordshire called Badbury Clump which gets carpeted with a sea of violet bluebells from late April or early May, and it's so beautiful. It's well worth a visit if you're in to nature.

Go See the Lavender, Confetti, and Sunflower Fields

I'd also like to do a few things I've never done before, and visit lavender, sunflower, and confetti fields in my area. Mostly to take photos, but also to enjoy the general prettiness of a sea of colourful flowers. The confetti fields are fields of flowers like delphiniums and cornflowers that are grown and harvested for wedding confetti, and it sounds so lovely. It's at Wyke Manor Estate in Wick, near Pershore in Worcestershire for anyone who's curious.

Visit the Zoo

I'm a big animal lover, so I love a good trip to the zoo, and hope to visit a few this year. I would love to pay another visit to Whipsnade Zoo this summer to do all the sections we didn't fit in last time, and I really want to visit Longleat Safari Park to see the koalas and wombats, as I've never seen either animal in real life. It's a bit of a drive from Oxfordshire, though, so I'm not sure it would be possible without an overnight stay nearby. I'm also planning to fit in at least one day out at my local zoo, The Cotswold Wildlife Park, although, I'm sure we'll squeeze in several. It's such a lovely, relaxing place to walk around, and get some exercise while enjoying the animals, and I think it's good to challenge myself to push through my chronic pain every now and then to make it to the end. 

Take a Trip to the Seaside

I'd really like to take at least one day-trip to the coast this summer, and spend some time at the beach, paddling in the sea, watching the waves, and eating salty fish and chips straight from the paper on the sea front. (My holiday to Cornwall doesn't count). I grew up with multiple day trips to the beach every summer- usually to Poole or Woolacombe- which I haven't done much of as an adult, and I miss it so much.

Have a Good Clear Out

I feel the need to have a good declutter, so I want to gradually go through my stuff- clothes, bags, books, craft supplies etc- and clear out anything I no longer want or use. It'll probably take me most of the year with my health, but if I can cull some stuff by the end of the year, I'll be happy.

Reorganise My Bookshelves 

Reorganising my bookshelves was on my list of autumn goals, but I never found the time or spoons to see to it. It's definitely on my list of priorities before spring because the shelves are over-run with books I've read piling up towards the ceiling, and it's all such an eye-sore that it's actually stressing me out to look at it. I need to clear everything off, put my DVDs in to folders and store the cases, get rid of any books I don't want, and reorganise everything. Hopefully then my bookshelves will look pretty again, and I might even have space for new books.

And those are some of my goals for the year ahead. 

I don't know if I'll be able to achieve them all and I'm probably being a little too optimistic, but I'm going to give it my best shot anyway. 

Wish me luck!

Have you set any goals or resolutions for 2022?