Twenty One Things I Learned Being 21

I don't know about you, but I'm feeling twenty twoooo!

Well, not quite yet.
Tomorrow, I welcome in my twenty-second year of life. Twenty-two sounds so old, especially considering I sat my GCSE's six years ago. I suppose it's not all bad though, I can play Taylor Swift on repeat for a whole year and you have no idea how long I've waited to do that.

If you're new here, welcome to the yearly tradition on my blog where I tell you about some of the things I've learned in this past year. Normally I'd sit here and joke about how I've achieved nothing but twenty-one has been so kind to me. It's been a year of success, love and a lot of life lessons. I'm a Creative Writing GRADUATE (!?!), I'm the most confident I've ever been and most importantly, I'm happy.

So without further ado, here are twenty-one things I've learned in my twenty-first year.

1. No Response Is A Response

I've learned this lesson in two ways. The first is that no one is ever too busy - if they care they'll make time. The second is that you don't need to rise to an argument, sometimes it's okay not to have the last word.

2. I really like tea

I've always been a coffee kind of girl but since having afternoon tea at Kensington Palace, I'm becoming quite the tea drinker. 

3. Not Everyone has the same Heart as you

Just because you have respect for someone doesn't mean they have the same respect for you. It's a hard pill to swallow but it's okay, as long as you continue to have courage and be kind. 

4. Graduation is Amazing

Twenty-one saw me finally graduate from University and, not that I bang on about it much, it truly was the proudest, most overwhelming day of my life. I'd like to go and do it all again, please.

5. Hard Work Pays Off

Moving on nicely from my last point, hard work really does pay off. I wouldn't have been stood there in my cap and gown if it wasn't for the sleepless nights, 15 hour days in the library and the support of my family and friends. 

6. I actually don't mind the Gym

This year I invested in a gym membership, much to the surprise of pretty much everyone I know. I was the least sporty kid at school - the one who'd fake every injury possible to get out of doing sport, but *gasp* the gym really isn't that bad. In fact, it's improved my mood so much, I actually look forward to going - who'd have thought it?! I'm a changed woman.

7. Long Distance is hard

I've done my fair share of dating this year and found myself meeting someone who I really fell for. There was just one issue; a three-hour distance between us. We tried to make it work but it was too hard. The late night phone calls, movie dates over face time and long text messages; it was all cute but we both missed that personal connection. It's sad it didn't work out. 

8. There isn't a mood that Take That can't fix

Seriously, if you're feeling down, wack a bit of Take That's Greatest Hits on Spotify (my personal favourite is Everything Changes) and I guarantee you'll be feeling better in no time. It's a great way to start the day. 

9. I love Disneyland Paris at Christmas 

Okay, I love Disneyland Paris anyway but being able to visit during the festive period was the most magical experience of my life. What more could you want than walking down Main Street in the snow? I just loved it. 

10. If someone is meant to be in your life they will find a way back to you

No matter how far they wander. 

11. Bongo's Bingo is next level

I went to my first Bongo's Bingo in March and I loved every second, what better way to spend a Saturday night than stood on a table singing to the Vengaboys? Seriously, I've never experienced anything like it. I loved it so much I'm going again in August and I cannot wait!

12. Honesty and Communication are so Important

Especially in relationships. A lack of honesty and communication leads to mixed signals, trust issues and people getting hurt. Sure I've experienced love this year but I've had my fair share of heartache too. 

13. Flat Shoes on a Night out are Ultimate Comfort

Don't get me wrong, I love dressing up in heels for a night out with the girls but flats are my go-to now. I can dance all night without my feet hurting - where has this miracle trend been all my life!?

14. The London Underground really isn't that Bad

Twenty-one saw me conquer my lifelong fear of the London Underground and now, I'm on and off that tube like nobodies business. I've taken many trips to London this year and I've loved every single one of them. I couldn't live in London though, it's far too busy for me.

15. I want to Travel

There's a whole wide world out there and I want to see it. In the words of Belle, 'I want adventure in the great wide somewhere.' 

16. I get offended when I don't get asked for ID

What? You're telling me I don't look like I'm eighteen anymore? My youth is leaving me behind!!! 

17. Older doesn't necessarily mean wiser

The majority of people are under the impression that if they're older than you, they know more than you. I'm afraid this isn't always the case - don't be made to feel unintelligent just because someone is older (chances are, you probably know more than them anyway). Always be willing to learn. 

18. Psychic readings are fascinating

I know some of you will be sceptical about this sort of thing but I am fascinated. I went for my first psychic reading a few weeks ago and was blown away by the accuracy of the things I was told. The reading brought a lot of clarity and peace into my life and I'm going to go for another reading done soon. 

19. Let it come and Let it go

One of the main messages from the reading was to let things come and let things go. I'm applying this to most things in life but in particular, relationships. I'm done fighting for things that no longer serve a purpose in my life, it's both physically and mentally exhausting. 

20. Ice Cream is the ultimate hangover cure

Don't worry, you can thank me later. 

21. Trust in the Universe 

Since graduation, I've been feeling a bit lost. I don't know where my life is headed and as someone who likes to be in control, that really stresses me out. However, I'm a firm believer that my life is planned and I'm learning to trust in this. Opportunities will present themselves when the time is right, I've just got to have some faith. 

I'm so excited to see what adventures twenty-two has waiting for me and I can't wait to celebrate tomorrow with the people who mean the most. 

I suppose everything will be alright if we just keep dancing like we're twenty-two!

Lots of Love,

Meg x

2018 │The Highlights

Happy New Year Everyone! 

2018 has been a complete whirlwind. It's been a year full of success, a lot of celebrations and a few life lessons along the way. Unlike recent years, the high points have definitely outweighed the low points and I can truly say that 2018 has been one of the best years of my life. 

This year saw me achieve things I never thought possible. I graduated, went back to Disneyland Paris and finally walked along the cobbles of Coronation Street. I've seen myself blossom with a new found confidence and learned a lot about self-acceptance, especially when it comes to my skin. I also learned a lot about love; how I deserve/want to be treated and that I shouldn't settle for anything less. 2018 has also seen me reunite with old friends, put past arguments behind us and experience one too many crazy nights out. It really has been the best year and I feel so lucky to have met some of the most beautiful people, especially in this last few months. 

Tonight I'll be welcoming in the New Year the only way I know how, with a glass of gin and surrounded by the people I love. This time next year I hope I'll be telling you about 12 months full of love, more success and exciting travels but until then, I'm going to share my *many* highlights of 2018. 

Theatre

I started the year in theatre as I went to see three of my favourite shows in the first three months. As I've said, January to March was a complete blur so going to the theatre was literally the only break I got from the Library. In January, I went to see my all-time favourite musical Jersey Boys. It was so good that I went to see it twice in two days and was lucky enough to meet Michael Watson after one of the shows. 

In February, I took my Grandma to see the Rat Pack live from LasVegas which was such a fun evening. We saw Frank Sinatra, Dean Martin and Sammy Davis Jr and I don't know who loved it more. Then finally in March Mum and I went to see Wicked. It was my fifth time seeing the show but I could watch it over and over again. Along with Jersey Boys, it's definitely one of my favourites. 

Emmerdale Studio Tour

Fast forward to April and I'd finally submitted my last ever Uni assignment. As I had a lot of free time on my hands, Mum and I jumped on a train to Leeds and went to see the Emmerdale Studios. We love the soaps and Emmerdale is one of our favourites so to be able to see some of the famous sets, pull a pint in the Woolpack and watch how they bring the village to life was so much fun. Sadly, we didn't see Ross or Cain. 

Graduation Ball

In May, we had our Graduation Ball. It was a night full of love, laughter and a lot of prosecco. Not only did I finally go to the stunning Oh Me Oh My in Liverpool, but to be able to stand on the rooftop garden, overlooking the docks and celebrate the most amazing three years with the people who meant the most to me was the best way to end my University experience. I should also mention that I only got in at 4am and somehow managed to be in work early the next morning, still in last nights make up...lovely. 

This kicked off the best Summer of my life. 

I Got Published

Each year InTheRed, a Liverpool magazine for writers, release a copy filled with short stories and poems from Liverpool's best writers. I've been trying to get published by them for the past three years and this year, it finally happened. My short story 'The Date With St Clair' was published in the 2018 edition of the magazine and I feel so honoured that my work is there alongside some of the most talented writers. If you'd like to have a read, you can find the magazine online here. 

My 21st Birthday

My birthday was one of my favourite days of the year. From the moment I woke up, I was treated like a Princess. I've never been one to make a MASSIVE fuss on birthdays but my parents went above and beyond to make the day so special. The day was full of surprises, we went for afternoon tea, had a meal with the family and then they whisked me off for a special holiday to...

Cornwall

The day after my 21st, my parents and the dog took me down to Newquay for the week. Cornwall holds a special place in my heart and it's the place I've called my second home for the past ten years. To be able to celebrate my birthday there was the best gift I could've received. The sun was blazing, we chilled on the beach and drank cider on rooftop bars. I don't think I've ever felt more content. 

What a way to start 21! 

Coronation Street Tour

In July, a childhood dream came true as I got to walk down the famous cobbles of Coronation Street. This was another treat from my mum for my 21st and we had one of the best days. It's surreal watching it on the telly, knowing that you've walked down that exact street and knocked on all the doors. We also had fun exploring Media City and Salford Quays. I wrote a blog post all about it if you fancy a read. 

65th Wedding Anniversary

July also saw my Grandma and Grandad celebrate 65 years of marriage. They got married on the 4th July 1953 when my Grandma was only 20 years old and my Grandad 21. Here they are with their special letter from the Queen congratulating them on their Diamond Wedding Anniversary. They love each other more today than they ever could and to me, they're proof that true love really does exist. 

Graduation

I couldn't talk about 2018 without mentioning the fact that I GRADUATED!!

Three years of hard work, a lot of stress and a sprinkle of imagination saw me graduate from Liverpool John Moores University as a Bachelor of Arts in Creative Writing. I remember writing my 2017 highlights a year ago and thinking, 'this time next year, I wonder if I'll have actually graduated.' Well, guess what girl. YOU DID IT! 

I'll be honest, it hasn't sunken in that I'm not going back to University ever again and I miss all of my friends so much. However, the 13th July 2018 will forever hold a special place in my heart. 

The proudest day of my life. 

Lytham Festival

The Graduation celebrations continued with a trip to Lytham Festival to see Nile Rodgers and Chic. This was one of my favourite nights of the year as we didn't stop dancing for the entire night. I've always wanted to see Nile Rodgers and Chic at a festival so this was the perfect way to end what had been my favourite month so far. 

Meeting My Favourite Authors

In August, I went to my first ever authors event and met three of my writing inspirations; Giovanna Fletcher, Lindsey Kelk and Paige Toon. I've been reading their books since I was fifteen years old and they've inspired me endlessly throughout my studies. To be able to meet them, chat with them and listen to them talk about their passion for the genre they write in was so refreshing and completely restored my faith and motivation in what I do. 

Liverpool

September saw me reunite with old friends and spend a lot of my time in Liverpool. I've taken more time for myself this year and spent a lot of this month at the Docks, in Costa reading a book. If anything, I've realised the importance of taking time out for yourself to do the things that you want to do. I also realise how lucky I am to live in such a beautiful city. 

Halloween

Halloween was so much fun this year. I spent it with my work family and it was such a laugh. I'm so lucky to be able to work for people who I get on so well with. Apart from that, October was a quiet month, I like to think it was a time for me to relax and recharge for the busy months ahead. 

Heather's & London

In November, I was reunited with my lovely friend Jade. We took a trip to London to see Heathers the Musical (starring Carrie Fletcher) and it's up there with one of my favourite days of the year. Heathers was absolutely amazing. I purposely didn't listen to the soundtrack because I wanted it to be a surprise and it completely exceeded my expectations. Carrie was the perfect Veronica! After the show Jade and I explored London, taking in the sights of Oxford Street, Carnaby Street and she finally convinced me to go on the tube! 

Christmas In Disneyland Paris

And finally December, the month I returned home to Disneyland Paris.

In September Chloe and I decided that after two years, we were long overdue a trip to Disney and what better time to go than Christmas. It was a holiday full of pure magic from the moment we stepped off the Eurostar to the moment we said goodbye to Main Street. I'll never be able to explain how much this place means to me, the only thing I can say is that I'm incredibly thankful to have ended the year there. Also, being able to spend the holiday with my favourite roomie was even better. Chloe and I are literally the same people and we didn't stop laughing for the entire trip. 

Rugby With Dad

2018 saw me actually take an interest in a sport for once. 

Dad and I have spent the majority of our Friday nights at the Totally Wicked Stadium cheering on the Saints and it's been absolutely brilliant. Being able to spend time with my Dad doing something we both love has been a pleasure and I can't wait for the new season to start. 

Ohana

I don't know how I would've done this year without my family. They've been so supportive and so loving throughout and I can only hope that I've made them proud. I don't thank them enough for everything that they do; my Mum for bringing me coffee on those all-nighters doing uni work, my Dad for distracting me with the rugby, my Grandma and Grandad for consistently making me laugh and my little Buster for being there with a cuddle.  I'm so lucky to have them.

Friendship

I've learned a lot about friendship this year; it's not about the size of your social circle but the people in it. My Uni gang have been my personal cheerleaders since we met in our first year and being able to graduate together was the best feeling. Thank you for putting up with my many breakdowns and telling me I could do it when I was so close to giving up. Laughter is so important and the laughs I've had this year have kept me going, from our crazy nights out to riding bikes around Liverpool at 3am. I'm so bloody thankful to have had such beautiful people be a part of my year. 

Overall, it really has been the best year ever. I think the only thing that could've topped it off would've been if England won the world cup. 2018 has been my year. I'm thankful that I'm still healthy and that my family are too. I feel extremely lucky to have had so many life changing experiences and to have met some of the most amazing people who I hope will continue to brighten my life in 2019. I've got a feeling that 2019 is going to be a quiet one, but I'm ready to make it another good one. 

I hope you have a fantastic New Year and that 2019 is filled with love, happiness and a little sprinkle of pixie dust! 

Lots of Love,

Meg

xxx

How To Get Over The Guy You Never Dated

I think we can all agree that catching feelings is messy business, especially for someone who doesn't feel the same. As much as we make ourselves promise that we won't get attached, it's inevitably going to happen but just how do you get over that one person you couldn't call your own? 

 Personally, it's a situation I find myself in time and time again. I either go on a few dates and get ghosted or admire from afar and realise that the guy is completely out of my league. Regardless of the situation, that dreaded feeling lingers. A web of 'what if?' and endless amounts of wondering why I wasn't good enough. 

In recent months, ghosting has been a common occurrence in my dating life and it SUCKS!

I've been on dates with guys and things have gone really well. We've had a second/third date and then they just disappear. They delete from all social media, ignore messages and leave me with a bunch of feelings that I can't shake off. It frustrates me that people think that they can mess with other's feelings because they're unsure about their own.

When it comes to love and dating, I try to protect myself as much as possible. I don't like allowing myself to be vulnerable or taken for a fool but I'll admit, being ghosted is embarrassing. It hurts to know that you weren't on the same page; you thought they felt the same way with all the compliments, flirty banter and the good morning texts but it meant nothing to them. You feel like you were 'almost' good enough and wonder what you did to let them down. 

If this rings any bells then rest assured that you're not alone. After talking to a few of my girlfriends, I've realised it's a common thing for guys to do, yet it feels stupid to have all these feelings for a boy who you never made it official with. I like to refer to this kind of relationship as an 'almost relationship' and sometimes, I think they're the hardest to get over. 

So without anymore waffling from me, here are some things that might help you get over that guy. 

Remember that you're entitled to your feelings

Never feel like you shouldn't be sad because the relationship wasn't official. It's okay to cry and feel emotional, in fact, I guarantee that you'll feel better after a little rant to your girlfriends. 

Practice self-love

Remember that you are the most important person in this situation. Treat yourself how you deserve to be treated. Watch all the romantic comedies and Disney movies that your heart desires - it's nice to see romance go right even if your love life isn't working out. 

There's nothing wrong with you

Even though you might think that everything is your fault, it's really not. The fact that someone has messed with your feelings because they're unsure of their own says more about them than it does about you. Keep reminding yourself that you don't need them - you coped without them before and you can cope without them now. 

Switch Playlists

Make a playlist of all the songs that make you feel fierce. I'm talking Beyonce, Ariana, Whitney and Little Mix. There's nothing like a strong female playlist to make you feel like you can take on the world. 

Keep yourself busy

Channel your energy into something creative and occupy your mind. It'll defer from the temptation to check their social media every hour and sinking into the black hole of wondering why things didn't work out the way you wanted them to. 

Delete them from social media

Following on nicely from my last point, deleting the guy from social media always helps. I'm constantly doing this, so take it from someone who knows that checking their Instagram to see if they're in a relationship does not help matters. You need to be rid of them in order to move on. 

Your friends are your lifesavers

Guarantee, they'll be there to pick you up when you feel at your lowest and reassure you that the guy was punching anyway. You can do so much better, trust us! 

Treat Yourself

Knowing that you weren't right for the person that you wanted can really knock your confidence, especially when you don't know the reasoning behind their actions. My advice? Browse ASOS, treat yourself to that dress you've always wanted, go out with the girls and forget that he even existed. 

The final thing is to have faith.

In life, you learn that not everyone is going to like you, people can be horrible and not everyone treats people how they'd like to be treated but the right person will come along. Why waste time crying over a guy when you can be living the single life to the fullest? You'll also learn not to catch feelings when going on dates - if you don't expect things to go right, it'll be a nice surprise when you finally found the guy you've been waiting for.

I'd love to hear if anyone else has found themselves in this situation and what you do to deal with it!

Lots of Love,

Meg

xxx

{Photo by Emma}

The Little Black Backpack

The backpack is a trend that never seems to fade. We're all walking around with cute little bags strapped to our backs and I absolutely love it. I'll admit, I didn't get the trend at first but when I received my Zoella travel backpack a few years ago, I've never looked back. 

Recently, I've been on the lookout for a plain, black backpack that I can use when I'm out and about - whether that be a shopping day with the mother or an afternoon brunch with my friends. I needed something that looked stylish and cute but that was also affordable. You won't believe me, but finding the perfect backpack proved to be harder than I thought - they were either too big, too small or too expensive. I was convinced that the perfect backpack didn't exist.

Then I went into New Look. 

I love shopping in New Look and if you raid my wardrobe, you'll discover that the majority of my clothes are from there. However, I don't know about you, but I never seem to browse New Look's  bag department - I mean, where has this been all my life? I actually went into my local store looking for a coat, and came out with the backpack of my dreams instead. 

New Look have a wide selection of bags for every occasion and I know it's going to be the first place I look when I need a new bag to add to my collection.  I was amazed to find a variety of backpacks, in every colour and size imaginable. I really was spoilt for choice. After much deliberation, I chose this beautiful black Whipstitch Tassel Mini Backpack for £22.

(Photos: Emma)

The reason I opted for a smaller backpack is because I think that the others can just be too big. Who needs that much room in a bag? Don't get me wrong, I love my Zoella backpack but this little purchase is quickly becoming my favourite. The tassel detail adds a cute, chic look to any outfit and if you're using it in the summer (which I definitely will be), it'll give you all the bohemian vibes. They also sell the bag in brown, so if you want to add a pop of colour to your outfit then that's the one for you. 

With a small zip compartment, it's the perfect size to fit my pink River Island purse, along with my make-up bag, a hairbrush and my phone. Oh, and not forgetting my house keys (which I normally do). It looks cute and classy for a day out with the family, or a trip to the theatre, something I've been doing a lot lately, and I think black is a safe colour for every season. It's got buttons at the side so that you can make the bag smaller and a small button at the front to close. 

It may not be the perfect bag for a day in the office, but this is quickly becoming my go-to bag for every occasion. Soon, you're going to be fed up of seeing it in outfit posts. I'll be taking it on holiday, to Uni and to work - just adding it to an outfit can dress you up or dress you down (depending on the look you're going for, obviously). 

If you're looking for a new little black backpack, which I think is a must-have in every wardrobe, or if you're just looking for a new bag in general then I highly recommend popping into your nearest New Look or having a browse online. 

What's your go-to bag? 

Lots of Love,

Meg

xxx

The Highlights of 2017

Happy New Year Everyone!

A brand new start is almost upon us and I can't quite believe how quick this past year has gone. It's been a step up from 2016 and a year full of change. If you would've told me that I'd get a job promotion, gain and lose some of my closest friends and combat my anxiety, I'd have laughed in your face and told you to be quiet. Yet here we are, 365 days later and all of that has happened and more. It amazes me how shy, reserved and scared I was this time last year. A lot has changed but it's only made me stronger and happier. I'm ready to make my twenties the happiest years of my life. 

I'll be spending this evening with a glass of gin in my hand, my family around me and welcoming in what will hopefully be a year of happy memories, big achievements and a whole lot of love. This time next year, I hope I'll be telling you all about my 21st and my *successful* graduation, but until then, I'm going to share some of my highlights of 2017. 

The Lion King

 We kicked off the year in style when we went to see The Lion King in London. I bought Mum and Dad tickets for Christmas and it was the most perfect way to spend a cold January afternoon. We took Dad to Selfridges, I had another photo in Cinderella's carriage before we headed to the theatre to take our seats. I knew that the show was going to be good, but nothing could have prepared me for how spectacular it was. My Dad isn't a massive fan of musicals but he was enthralled. It was pure Disney magic and the opening sequence is something I'll remember for the rest of my life - I was in tears from start to finish. I'm desperate to go back and see it again because it's an experience that I can't put into words. 

Disneyland Paris 25th Anniversary

In April, I was fortunate enough to be able to celebrate Disneyland Paris' 25th Anniversary. The 12th April is a day I will never be able to put into words because it still feels like such a whirlwind. From seeing 100 characters parade down Main Street to buying a balloon and taking photos in front of the castle, it was a day that I'll remember for the rest of my life. I shared the celebration with so many of my wonderful friends and I'm so thankful that they've been a part of my happiest memories of 2017.

Dancing with King Louie

I've had some hilarious interactions with characters this year but nothing sticks in my mind more than King Louie. Jungle Book is a film close to my heart and as I'd never met King Louie before, I was super excited. I gave him a big hug and told him that he sings one of my favourite Disney songs (which he does). He asked me to sing it for him, so very nervously, I gave an amateur rendition of 'I Wanna Be Like You'. To my surprise, he danced along with me and it's a moment that will never fail to bring a smile to my face. 

Inventions Lunch

April's trip also saw me pay my first visit to Inventions - the restaurant in the Disneyland Hotel. This has been a dream of mine for many years and the experience didn't disappoint. The food was delicious and the character interaction was pure magic. We met lots of wonderful characters but the two that stick in my mind happen to be the two that brought me to tears; Tigger and Eeyore. Tigger gave me the tightest hug I've ever had and refused to let me go, before bouncing around the restaurant. Eeyore was full of so much love and our hugs and chats brought everyone to tears. You can read all about it here.

This Morning Live

In May we went to Birmingham to see This Morning Live. Mum and I are massive fans of This Morning and we always watch it on our days off, so when I found out that they were doing a live show, I booked Mum tickets for her birthday. It was a fun-packed day out full of laughs and lots of food. To my excitement, we saw Schofe and Holly as well as the rest of the This Morning team. There was a wide variety of stalls covering every single thing imaginable - food, fashion, home, fitness and even gin. They're holding the event again in 2018, so if you fancy it then get yourself down there! 

Disneyland Paris Birthday Trip

 June 9th saw me turn 20, and what better way to start my twenties than a trip to Disneyland Paris. It was a brilliant trip spent mostly with my friend Victoria and her family. The weather was blazing hot and I got extremely sunburnt, got scared by Jafar and finally met Capitan Jack Sparrow. However, my personal highlight was being serenaded by Baloo. If you've been reading my blog for a while, you'll know that Baloo is my Dad's favourite character (he has an evergrowing collection of Baloo the Bear merch). There was a short queue to meet him, so we jumped in and he noticed my birthday badge straight away. Then, he got the whole crowd to sing 'Happy Birthday' to me and it's potentially one of the greatest moments of my life. Look how happy my little face is.

Meeting Victoria

Unexpectedly, I spent most of my birthday trip with fellow blogger and Disney lover Victoria, and her wonderful friends and family who were so welcoming. We'd spoken online for just over a year, so when we found out that we were in Disney at the same time, we just had to meet each other. From the moment I met her at Phantom Manor (of all places), we hit it off straight away and I've definitely found a friend for life. We're so like-minded and I can't wait to go back to Disney with her again soon.

A trip to Bakewell

In July, we spent the weekend in Bakewell. It's the quaintest village with a love lock bridge, cute little pubs and the best Bakewell tart shop you'll ever see. I spent the day writing at the side of the river, walking around the flower garden and eating all the Bakewell tarts I could find. I treasure spontaneous weekends with my parents because it's rare that I get to spend a lot of time with them. After that, August saw me work and work and work - I think I had 7 days off in the whole month.

Fusion Festival

In September, my darling Mitchell travelled up to Liverpool to come and have a boogie at Fusion Fest. This was one of my favourite days of the year and also one of my first proper festivals, and I loved every second of it. We saw The Vamps, Take That and Ella Eyre - all of whom were absolutely brilliant. The Vamps took me back to being 15 again and Take That were absolutely out of this world. It was windy, raining but so much fun. I'm also looooving space buns - they're giving real Princess Leia vibes and I'm not complaining. 

Disneyland Paris September Trip

September also saw me take my final trip to Disneyland Paris for the year. It was a rainy trip but, as always, was so much fun. I Disneybounded as my favourite Princess, surprises my friend Kathryn and twirled like a pro with Aurora in the Disneyland Hotel - that wouldn't happen anywhere else but Disneyland. It was beyond magical - from singing karaoke in Sports Bar to having hugs with Rapunzel. Snow White also dedicated the 'I see a Princess' song to me, but that's no big deal...honestly. Snow White sees a Princess in me...AHHH!

The Best G&T I've ever had

 2017 introduced me to gin, and I've never looked back.
Mum, Dad and I went to Peaky Blinders, and no I don't mean the TV show, more like the themed bar in Southport. It's one of the classiest, jazziest, smoothest bars I've ever set foot in and I can confirm that they make THE BEST G&T. I've been wanting to watch the TV show for such a long time, so if you've watched it and you think I'd like it then let me know in the comments. Also, they've opened a bar in Liverpool so if it's something you fancy then go and check it out.

Meeting Emma

I've never been confident in my blog, and I never thought that it'd ever result in anything. However, this year I met Emma, a girl who is like my big sister - she's always there to make me laugh, give me advice and take the prettiest photos of my outfits. We never stopped speaking from the moment we met and it felt like we'd known each other forever. We've got some exciting blogging adventures planned in 2018 and I can't wait! Also, thanks Emma for allowing my Instagram to look pretty with your photography.

A Day out with Grandad

I took my Grandad to explore the Albert Dock and have a look at the Museum of Liverpool. It was such a fun day out filled with laughter, tea, cake and lots of stories from my Grandad. It meant a lot to spend time with him as I really don't do it enough, plus he enjoyed being able to tell me stories that I've heard a million times before. I love him so much, my best friend since day one.

Christmas at Bents

In November, Mum and Dad took me on my first trip to Bents Garden Centre, otherwise known as the greatest Christmas display in the world (well, I think so). I've been so desperate to go to Bents for years and finally being able to see all the Christmas decorations was a real treat. I won't waffle on about it too much because I wrote a blog post about it which you can read here.

Edinburgh Christmas

Our last adventure of the year took us to Edinburgh to explore the Christmas Markets and see everything the city had to offer. I'm absolutely in love with Edinburgh, especially the small tartan shops and gin bars. I was introduced to brandy, had a photo taken with a bagpipe player and finally got to explore Edinburgh Castle. The Christmas Markets were something else; a maze of twinkling trees, Bratwurst sausages and hot chocolate with cream - what's not to love? If you want to read about our Edinburgh adventure then here's a blog post all about it.

The importance of family and friends

2017 has put a lot of things into perspective for me and I've learnt a lot in terms of my standards and how I want to be treated. I've realised that the family I've got are the only family I need and that the people who I need will stick around. I couldn't have got through the challenges without these people around me, or without cuddles from my partner in crime. I'm so very lucky to have them and I'm looking forward to welcoming in the new year with them tonight. 

And now a list of achievements

Finally, I want to tell you about some of the things I've achieved this year. 

I finally combatted my social anxiety and have watched myself change into the social butterfly I used to be. I can go on a night out without panicking and I'm absolutely loving everything about it. I'm so proud of myself - I never thought I'd ever be able to go on a night out again. I think this is thanks to shutting out the toxic people in my life. It's weird how certain people can blur the way you see things, and I've realised just how unhappy I was with them around. I like to think of them as grey clouds stopping the sun from shining. These awful people have made room for some of the best friends I could ask for - mature, hilarious and the kindest people on the planet. I'm so very lucky. 

In July, I passed my second year of Uni with a high 2:1 after submitting everything just an hour before the deadline. I've learned my lesson and won't be doing that again anytime soon, don't you worry. It also saw me combat my fear of dentists and hospitals by having my tooth extracted under sedation. Basically, they took my tooth out when I was as high as a kite and (according to nurses) singing along to Rick Astley. I don't remember a thing but apparently, before the dentist started work, I grabbed hold of his wrist and said 'Listen here you, if you do anything wrong, my friend's a dental nurse so I'll know everything'. Sedation is a weird and wonderful thing. 

Overall, it's been a year of challenges, laughs and a whole lot of magic. It gives me hope that with a little more hard work, and if I keep on doing what I'm doing, 2018 will be my year. I'm thankful that I'm still alive, healthy and that my family are too. I feel extremely lucky to have been able to travel to so many different places and experiences so many magical moments in Disneyland Paris. 

I hope you have a fantastic New Year and that 2018 is filled with love happiness and a sprinkle of pixie dust! 

Lots of Love,
Meg

xxx