Christmas Baby

I didn't mention that last week it was my birthday, and a spectacular one at that! My poor other half really has to save hard around this time of year to indulge me twice in December, but he has already done a fantastic job. Not only did he take me to Gordon Ramsay's restaurant, Maze, but he also bought me a fantastic Nigel Slater book, a Nespresso machine (I'm a total coffee geek so this was an amazing gift) and a gorgeous watch from super-cool brand ToyWatch, I can't imagine what he's going to do for Christmas, but if these gifts are anything to go by, I can't wait!

Let it Snow!

I can't remember a Christmas this cold for a very long time. Whilst most Christmas movies would have you believe that London is annually covered by a blanket of snow throughout the festive season, this is something of a myth. But this year it looks like we may be having our first white Christmas in a very long time. Ok, so snow is pretty inconvenient, particularly when you live in the UK and our infrastructure is in no way prepared for its arrival (seriously, it's a joke - public transport comes to a standstill and the country seems to come to a halt!). But still, it's so pretty, not to mention festive! Fingers crossed it keeps falling until Christmas day!

Ce Soir

I popped out tonight for the beginning of my birthday celebrations. Actually, h2b and I did a quick spot of shopping followed by a bite to eat. We were then joined by a friend to go and see A Christmas Carol in 3d. To be honest, I wasn't so sure about it...I much prefer the Muppets version!

Anyway, Christmas tree shopping tomorrow. I have my eye on a few baubles, but doubt we can justify adding to our collection this year. Love these ones though...

Heals

John Lewis

This is how Christmas in our house looked last year and I have a feeling it will look pretty similar again this year!

Just Quickly

Ok, one last festive distraction. I LOVE these retro games from the Conran Shop: http://www.conranshop.co.uk/

I'm particularly loving Blind Ignorance; very reminiscent of the oh-so-politically-incorrect Post-It game played in The Office! Ok, now I'm really going back to the books. Bye!

Look What I Found!!

I should be studying, but I've just found this hilarious Christmas card from Zazzle. Nothing quite says Christmas like National Lampoon's Christmas Vacation! Anyway, best get back to the law...

Diaries!

It's that time of year again when I request a diary from my dad. I don't know what it is but it has become something of a tradition over the years. Equally traditional is that my diary will invariably go up in price each year! This year however, I have surprised myself. Yes, there are some gorgeous Smythson diaries that I have my eye on (notably the Erdem Girl diaries...*sigh*)

But, I'm also loving this gorgeous diary from Barbara Wiggins, available at http://www.notonthehighstreet.com/:

The one in pewter looks stunning; imagine finding that amidst all the rubbish in your handbag? Plus, it frees up some extra cash for much-needed Christmas presents... I'll be happy whatever I get, but I can't believe I'm erring on the side of the (gulp) budget option.

DIY Gifts

Last Christmas a friend and I agreed to make presents for eachother. She, being ever-so-organised and creative, hand-stitched a gorgeous gift for me.  I on the other hand, have still to make her present... So, one year on I think I finally know what I will make her; remember those mix tapes you used to make for your friends as a kid? Well, in the spirit of a retro revival they are making a comeback in the form of a USB key! I found this one at http://www.suck.uk.com/. Hope she likes it!