The Work Essential - Zara Studded Office City Bag

With the New Year just around the corner, I've been getting ready to put my New Year's resolutions in place. One thing that I really want to master in 2015 is general life organisation. I'm looking forward to browsing the sales for desk planners, diaries and more notebooks but for now I'm getting a head start by organising myself when I'm out and about.

The Zara Studded Office City bag* is the ideal work bag. Perfect if you want to be more organised like me. Alternatively, it would make an amazing 'new job' treat if you're planning to start January with a UK job search, browsing sites like City Calling for your dream job. It features a zipped middle compartment and two large side pockets - plenty of space for my stack of notebooks, tablet and everyday essentials.

It feels so good not to have endless receipts and Nakd bar wrappers at the bottom of my bag anymore! I'm prepared for a neat and tidy 2015!

*Gifted Item.

Wishes for 2015 : Travel

I've been lucky enough to travel more this year.  I decided to say yes to traveling on a plane, conquering my fear of flying.  Before, I'd never been that fussed about venturing to new places, because the thought of stepping on a boat or aeroplane was too much.  Now, I have my passport and sunscreen at the ready for my next adventure.  Although, I'll be swapping the factor 30 for woolly layers for the first location on my travel wish list!

1. NORTHERN LIGHTS, NORWAY
Ever since first seeing The Snowman, I've wanted to see the Northern Lights.  Word is that the best place to see the Aurora Borealis is in Norway.  Fred Olsen offers different cruises from UK to Norway with chances to stay in the Ice Hotel in Alta and experience traditional Sami culture.  This would make a truely magical holiday!

2. PARIS, FRANCE
Who doesn't want to pretend that they're Amelie or Audrey Hepburn in Funny Face.  Paris is always a good idea, after all!  I'd love to enjoy a morning coffee at a pavement cafe, eat macarons at Laduree and see the Eiffel Tower.

3. SANTORINI, GREECE
For me, Santorini is the ideal destination for a grown up romantic get away.  There are ancient cities and caves to be discovered.  Followed by a glass (or two) of local wine and beautiful Mediterranean cuisine.  World famous Santorini cherry tomatoes and white aubergines make meal times a foodies heaven!

New York, Mexico and the Maldives are also in my wanderlust list!  I'd love to hear what's on yours!

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Nottingham Christmas Market

At the weekend, I traveled to Nottingham for a festive weekend with my sister. This is the second year my Mum and I have gone to help her choose a tree and decorate her flat. We managed to get some Christmas shopping done, put up her tree and, my personal favourite bit, visit the Christmas Market in Nottingham's City center.

We decided to have a mooch around once it was dark and I took my new camera along for a play around.  I'm still getting used to using it and it was a whole new challenge shooting at night!  I know I've got a long way to go, but I'm super happy with how these shots came out!  



After a quick stop in Starbucks, we wandered round the different stalls. There is such a great atmosphere at night and the pretty lights make the market look magical. We indulged in mulled cider and salted caramel fudge (delicious). I even managed to pick up a few sneaky Christmas presents!



My little early December Nottingham trips are becoming one of my new favourite Christmas traditions. Next on my December to-do list is to visit my local garden center. Their decorations are usually amazing, so I'm really looking forward to seeing what they've got in store this year!