Ten Things To Do In December!

 Jumper & Skirt - Topshop
Boots - Asos
Bag - Versace

Being at home for the Christmas holidays not only has me enjoying a break from early starts (unfortunately not from essays though), but it's got me thinking. There are certain things I always do in December, certain things I've done every year that make me look forward to the break and keep me going throughout the longest, darkest days. I may not be the most festive, but I definitely have my little end-of-year celebrations! So I thought with today's outfit I'd share my top ten December must-dos - I'm ticking them off as we speak. Today's outfit is mostly remarkable because I haven't been forced to wear a coat, since it's actually quite a balmy winter especially down in Somerset! I got away with my current favourite jumper (kudos, Topshop) and this print skirt, along with only one pair of tights - I'm dreading January back in Birmingham... I loved feeling a little brighter and a little less weighed down today, and I'm sure this combination will reappear.. Anyway, here is an abbreviated version of my December to-do list..

Being at home for the Christmas holidays not only has me enjoying a break from early starts (unfortunately not from essays though), but it's got me thinking. There are certain things I always do in December, certain things I've done every year that make me look forward to the break and keep me going throughout the longest, darkest days. I may not be the most festive, but I definitely have my little end-of-year celebrations! So I thought with today's outfit I'd share my top ten December must-dos - I'm ticking them off as we speak. Today's outfit is mostly remarkable because I haven't been forced to wear a coat, since it's actually quite a balmy winter especially down in Somerset! I got away with my current favourite jumper (kudos, Topshop) and this print skirt, along with only one pair of tights - I'm dreading January back in Birmingham... I loved feeling a little brighter and a little less weighed down today, and I'm sure this combination will reappear.. Anyway, here is an abbreviated version of my December to-do list..

Bake

One of my Xmas traditions is baking mince pies with my mum, but whether you make gingerbread, Xmas pudding or a Yule log, winter is the time to fire up those ovens.

Wear a Christmas jumper

I don't go in for those supremely tacky Primark specialties, but around Christmas it's always time for a festive jumper (or socks, or a hat, or leggings...)

Be with your family

Christmas is the best excuse to get together - life is so busy that often family get neglected, especially the non-immediate relatives, so spend a bit of time with your family this season whether it's a full-on festive Xmas day, or just a nice quiet visit. 

Watch Christmas movies

There are some films that have become my staple Xmas viewing (and can't be watched any other time of year) - it's not Christmas unless I've watched Elf, Love Actually, and The Muppets Christmas Carol!

Give presents

All too often Xmas becomes about what you get, but I love to spend time planning and purchasing my gifts to give because these holidays are all about showing your loved ones how much you care.

Eat Xmas food

I'll admit I'm getting annoyed that Christmas food appears in about September, but I do love it - mince pies, stuffing, roast, selection boxes, celebrations, lindt....

Go for a walk

When I've got time I love going for a walk (probably because I live in the countryside), especially if it has snowed, or I can take my film camera out! 

Have a fire

Another tradition stemming probably from my childhood is that winter is always associated with a log fire, and I love sitting beside mine in these dark, bitter days.

Treat myself

Yes, I've spent too much money on presents. Yes, I still have a few weeks until loan day. Yes, I'm saving up for a year abroad. But honestly, it's dark, cold, damp and grey - if a bit of shopping and a few splurges can cheer me up then it's worth it! Recently I've treated myself in Lush (and may do a review once I've road tested it all)!

Be thankful

Lastly, it's always worth reflecting on all that is good and fortunate in your life. Everyone has difficult times, but there is always something to love about life (even just the little things), and I don't believe anyone should take anything for granted. We're all lucky in one way or another, and hey - we made it through another year!

Tara India xo