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● Laura Thornberry ● Lifestyle Blogger ● London Based ●

With my previous blog post being my Stocking Fillers Gift Guide for Men, I thought today I would do something similar, but share my own Christmas Wishlist. This is the first Christmas Wishlist that I have put on my blog and this year I actually have some kind of idea of gifts that I would definitely love to find wrapped up on Christmas morning. My wishlist features such a variety of gifts from beauty to homeware and fashion, so if you're still on the lookout for gifts to add to your Christmas list, grab yourself a coffee and have a look at what is on my wishlist for 2018!

Christmas wishlist

Way back in January, I shared with you one of my current favourite perfumes; YSL Black Opium, and I'm still loving it now! It's been my go-to perfume for the year and lately I've been using it sparingly as it's nearly empty and I don't want it to run out. Every single time I've worn it, I received handfuls of compliments and people asking what fragrance I'm wearing. It's such a gorgeous and luxurious scent, so deep, musky and sexy. Definitely one of the best perfumes I've ever tried!

If there is one thing that I love about Christmas, it's the strong smell of Christmas trees. I'm lucky in that every year we go and get a real Christmas tree from a local garden centre to put up in our living room. The fresh, pine scent fills the whole house and makes everything feel so much more festive! Whilst browsing The Body Shops website, I noticed they have a special Enchanted Forest Reed Diffuser and it just sounds incredible. It’s the perfect fresh, frosty pine scent to set the mood for the Christmas holiday season, and keep you in the Christmas spirit all year round.

Since I began blogging, Soap & Glory have become one of my favourite beauty brands. They offer such a variety of products from makeup to skincare to bath and body care. There's always so much to choose from. Included in their beauty gift set selection this year is the The Mask Force Five Gift Set. From brightening masks to under eyes to pore refining to purifying and plumping, there's definitely something for everyone and every skin concern. It's every skincare lovers dream gift and a pamper night must have!

When it comes to footwear, I'm 100% a trainers girl. They are just so comfortable and practical for day to day wear. Nike have always been my choice of brand when it comes to picking new trainers. I find their shoes to be long lasting, well fitting and super comfortable. Recently, I've been eyeing up the Nike M2K Tekno Trainers, especially in the Rose and White colourways. I'm usually always wearing black so I want to inject some colour into my outfits, and new footwear is a great way to accessorise and style your outfit up.

In my Autumn beauty wishlist, I featured the new NARS Climax Mascara. It's been something I've wanted to try since I've seen so many great reviews. I've not really tried any high-end, more luxurious makeup brands before, as I'm always shopping in the drugstore. Retailing at £21, it's definitely has a much higher price point than my trusty Rimmel Lash Accelerator Mascara, which is a lot more affordable at just £7.99.

Would any Christmas wishlist be finished without some sort of bath and body set?! One of my favourites this year is definitely the Baylis & Harding Rose Prosecco Fizz Gift Set. I've used products from this collection before, and the scent is incredible! The fun and festive Christmas tree design set contains 100ml Bauble Shower Crème, 100ml Bauble Bath Crème, 100ml Bauble Bath Milk and 2 x gold foil wrapped Bath Fizzers. The gift set is fragranced with such a lovely sweet scent of Rose Prosecco Fizz, it's perfect for your next pamper night!

I've wanted a Faux Fur Throw Blanket for so long now, but I just can't seem to find one that I love. All I know it that I either want a nice dark brown or grey coloured throw, that will definitely make my room feel super warm and cosy.

Does it make me sound old if I've got an electric toothbrush on my Christmas wishlist? I'm getting really bored of using an old-fashioned manual toothbrush, and would love to ditch them for an electric version. I'm completely fascinated by the new Oral B Genius 9000 Rose Gold Electric Toothbrush. Featuring 6 built-in modes: Pro Clean, Daily Clean, Sensitive, Tongue Cleaning, Whitening, and Gum Care. This is just completely mind-blowing and amazing technology.

 I've seen a lot of these Super Cosy Fleece Bedding Sets recently, and it's made me super jealous that I don't currently own one. I know that if I did have one, it would be so hard for me to get out of bed every morning. Super-soft and ultra-cosy, the fleece bedding set is perfect for the cold winter!

I absolutely love receiving new perfumes and fragrances as gifts. There are so many amazing scents out there, that there will always be something new to try. In terms of celebrity fragrances, I've previously tried out scents from both Rihanna and Nicki Minaj, and I've had my eyes set on something by Ariana Grande. A cracking gift for Christmas is the Ariana Grande Mini EDP Gift Trio. A collection of Ariana’s signature mini fragrances is the perfect gift as it would let you try out a few of the scents in mini, travel sized form, before buying a larger size perfume. Featuring 7.5ml bottles of her ARI, Moonlight and Sweet Like Candy scents, in a cute and playful cracker package. It's the perfect gift this Christmas.

What is on your Christmas Wishlist this year?
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AD - GIFTED | When it comes to buying Christmas gifts for male relatives and friends, it's a right struggle. I've got 3 brothers, so trying to find fun and cool presents year after year is something that I've tried to be good at. But this blog post is here to help you out with my ultimate stocking fillers gift guide. I've compiled together a few ideas that I think would be a great addition to any man's stocking, or just as a general gift to put under the tree this Christmas. Whether he's into sweet treats, drinking, clothing or quizzing, I've found some great gifts that I can't wait to share with you!

Chilled Out Sloth Mug Find Me A Gift

Perfect for the laziest boys in your life, the super cool 
Chilled Out Sloth Mug* will make their morning coffee or tea that little bit more fun! Featuring a cute little sleepy sloth and the "Eat, Sleep & Sloth" text, it's a cute little stocking filler that will be loved by all.

Lynx Duo Set

An oldie, but a goodie. Give the classic gift of a Lynx Duo Set. The perfect gift for any man in your life and is an ideal stocking filler. Containing a full size Body Spray 150ml & Body wash 250ml, it's a gift that will definitely come in handy, definitely get used and keep them smelling clean and fresh!

Retro Pocket Games with LCD Screen

This is perfect for the man who loves all kinds of gadgets and gizmo's. The Retro Pocket Games with LCD Screen* comes with over 100 games to enjoy all day long. Conveniently pocket-sized and super addictive, you can play this whilst you're on-the-go and you'll never be bored again.

H&M Basic Relaxed Fit Sweatshirts

Most guys are quite fussy when it comes to clothing, but these H&M Basic Relaxed Fit Sweatshirts are a perfect addition to the wardrobe. Coming in a variety of colours from black to khaki to grey and much more, they are perfect for everyday wear and super comfortable as they feature a soft brushed inside. Priced at £8.99, they are a super affordable gift and will keep the men in your life super warm, all winter long!

Jack Daniels Drinks

For any guy that likes a drink now and again, small alcohol gifts make a great stocking filler and a nice little surprise for Christmas day. I've picked up some Jack Daniels flavoured drinks, as I know these are my younger brothers favourites, but most alcohol brands offer gift sets at this time of year, from beer and cider gifts, to liqueurs and spirits, as well as cocktails. There will be something for everyones personal tastes!

Cadburys Dairy Milk Chocolate Bar

It wouldn't be Christmas without receiving some chocolate, and this whopping 850g Cadbury's Dairy Milk Chocolate Bar is definitely something to talk about. Whether it's just for one person, or a gift to share, it'll be sure to keep them occupied for a while. Perfect for those with a super sweet tooth!

Joe & Sephs Sweet and Spicy Popcorn

If you're looking for something cool and quirky for a foodie lover, Joe & Sephs Sweet and Spicy Popcorn* is a great stocking filler treat. With a smooth toffee, caramel flavour, followed by a hint warming hot pepper, before finishing with a spicy chilli kick, it's bound to get their taste buds tingling.

Big Fat Pub Quiz Game

I'm sure there is one male friend or relative in your life that thinks he knows absolutely everything. So why not challenge them to this tricky and trivial Big Fat Pub Quiz Game. This pub quiz style game has 6 themed rounds including General Knowledge, Science & Nature, Music, Sport, Geography & History, Film & TV! With over 360 different questions, it's the perfect way to test their knowledge and see how smart they really are!

What gifts will you be getting for the men in your life this Christmas?
10:00 No comments
AD - GIFTED | During the colder months of the year, my skincare routine definitely changes, and I am finding myself adding many more products into my daily routine that fit my current skins needs. The colder, winter months really have a drastic impact on my skin, as I tend to have much dryer and dull-looking skin. My last skincare post featured some of my favourite drugstore serums that I use on a day-to-day basis. I find serums an essential use for the colder months as I find my skin tends to get much drier in places due to the change in weather. Serums are great as they absorb deeper into the skin, and allow the skin to retain a higher level of moisture. I also have a selection of other skincare products that are my winter essentials, and they are as follows...

REN Glow Daily Vitamin C Gel Cream

First up is the REN Glow Daily Vitamin C Gel Cream*. A new addition into my skincare routine, and a definite game changing product for those with dull and tired looking skin. It's packed full of essential vitamins minerals that help boost a radiant and glowy complexion. Full of Tara Pod Extract, Vitamin C and Magnesium, helping to even out skin tone, illuminate the complexion and nourish the skin. The REN Glow Daily Vitamin C Gel Cream has a light and natural fresh scent with a hint of zesty and juicy oranges. Sounds delicious right?! When applying to the skin, a little goes a long way, so you only need the smallest amount for a full face. A perfect lightweight and fast absorbing cream, anything with the words 'radiance' and 'glow' are a perfect winter treat that helps you get that summer glow all year round!

Superdrug Vitamin E Gentle Oatmeal Exfoliator

Next, I've been using the Superdrug Vitamin E Gentle Oatmeal Exfoliator. At a bargain price of £2.99, this has been one of my best drugstore finds in terms of skincare.  Vitamin E Exfoliating Facial Scrub uses oatmeal to provide gentle but effective exfoliation, revealing deeply cleansed, soft and radiant skin. I use this twice a week after I've cleansed my skin, and it leaves me feeling super plump and smooth, that my moisturiser or serum glides effortlessly across my cleansed skin.

Cuticura Intensive Hand & Nail Cream

My third winter skincare essential is a nourishing hand cream. I always carry one with me in my bag for when I'm out and about, as they're perfect for when you're travelling or on the go. Recently I've picked up the Cuticura Intensive Hand & Nail Cream which I found when browsing my local Poundland store. Packed with Vitamin E and Glycerin; a perfect combination to keep your hands moisturised and nourished all day long.

Grüum Coffee & Coconut Body Polish Scrub

Another essential for me is a body scrub. I go through so many of these as I love the feeling of silky, soft and smooth skin. Currently I'm using the Grüum Coffee & Coconut Body Polish Scrub. Packed with Robusta Coffee, Cane Sugar, Dead Sea Salt, Argan oil, Macadamia oil and Cocoa Butter, it's the perfect way to exfoliate and nourish your skin. 

Vaseline Intensive Care Aloe Spray Moisturiser

My final skincare essential is the Vaseline Intensive Care Aloe Spray Moisturiser. I opt for a spray moisturiser in the winter months as it's far too cold to spend ages applying body moisturiser and letting it absorb. I'm currently using the Aloe Soothe moisturiser which has a super fresh and clean fragrance to it. I also really like the Cocoa scent! The product really helps to keep my skin moisturised and instantly leaves it feeling soft and refreshed. The best thing about this spray moisturiser is that it has non-greasy formula and absorbs into the skin in seconds, so there's no need to wait around before you put on your fresh clothes or pyjamas!

What are your Winter skincare essentials?
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AD - GIFTED | No.1 Kombucha; is an innovative brand founded by Jonny Wilkinson that promotes health and wellbeing and produces a range of refreshing and sparkling soft drinks. Kombucha originates from Northeast China and is at least two thousand years old. No.1 Kombucha is made using a blend of four main ingredients: filtered water, organic green tea, organic cane sugar and SCOBY (symbiotic colony of bacteria and yeast).

No.1 Kombucha - Ginger & Turmeric

I was kindly sent a much needed Kombucha care package* that included the Ginger & Turmeric drink*, as well as a few other goodies. I also received a pot of Ground Turmeric, some fresh Ginger and these super cute hand warmers that would keep me going throughout the cold winter months ahead. The living soft drink features a fiery and invigorating blend of ginger and turmeric, a perfect winter pick-me-up that have some much needed health benefits. Ginger; helps to reduce nausea, pain, and inflammation. Turmeric; has powerful anti-inflammatory effects and is a very strong antioxidant.

No.1 Kombucha - Ginger & Turmeric

This Ginger & Turmeric drink has refreshing, light, crisp flavour at the beginning, followed by a really strong and punchy after taste of zingy ginger and spicy turmeric. Packed with powerful ingredients, as well as antioxidants, essential vitamins, minerals and probiotics, providing an invigorating beverage ideal to consume during the colder months. This uplifting drink is perfect for giving your immune system some TLC and a natural boost this winter. 

No.1 Kombucha - Ginger & Turmeric

Every bottle of No.1 Kombucha has under 50 calories, it's also dairy and gluten free and suitable for vegans. Available and exclusive in Sainsbury’s stores in three delicious varieties: Ginger & Turmeric, Passionfruit & Goji and Raspberry, Pomegranate & Hibiscus. Such a range of delicious, fruity flavours! 

Have you heard of No.1 Kombucha before? What flavour from the range would be your favourite?
10:00 No comments
AD| In collaboration with ALDI*, I'm sharing with you the final recipe in my Winter Warmers series. For today's recipe, I'm sharing with you my quick and easy Fiery Prawn and Coconut Curry. This is completely homemade, full of authentic spices and beautiful flavours, you'll never want to use a ready made jar of curry sauce again! So let's get started!

Fiery Prawn and Coconut Curry

For this fiery curry, you will need the following ingredients;

Frozen Prawns, defrosted
1 can of Coconut Milk
1 tin of Chopped Tomatoes
2 small Potatoes
2 Garlic Cloves, chopped
1 White Onion, sliced
2 Chillies, red and green, sliced and deseeded
1 Green Pepper, sliced
Fresh Ginger, chopped 
1 tsp Turmeric
1 tsp Cumin
1 Lemon
1 packet of Basmati Rice
Coriander (fresh or dried)
Butter
Salt
Curry Powder
Olive Oil
Naan Breads

Fiery Prawn and Coconut Curry

Step 1 - Marinate the Prawns with the Turmeric, Cumin, Garlic, Chillies and Salt in a bowl, mix well and set aside for 30 minutes. 

Fiery Prawn and Coconut Curry

Step 2 - Chop your Onions, Peppers, Ginger and Garlic. Peel and diced your potatoes and rinse.

Fiery Prawn and Coconut Curry

Step 3 - Heat a splash of Olive Oil and knob of butter in a pan and add the sliced Onions. Fry gently for 5 minutes on medium heat. Then add the fresh Ginger and Garlic and cook for 2-3 minutes stirring regularly.

Fiery Prawn and Coconut Curry

Step 4 - Add a splash of cold water to your pan, and the chopped Green Pepper. Cook this for 5 minutes until soft. Meanwhile, place your diced Potatoes in a saucepan and boil until tender.

Fiery Prawn and Coconut Curry

Step 5 - Followed by the Chopped Tomatoes and Coconut Milk and stir and simmer for 2-3 minutes. Once mixed, add your Curry Powder and cooked Potatoes.

Fiery Prawn and Coconut Curry

Step 6 - In a separate pan, heat the remaining Olive Oil in a non-stick frying pan and fry the spiced Prawns briefly for a minute or two. 

Fiery Prawn and Coconut Curry

Step 7 - Once the Prawns are cooked through, add them to your curry sauce and simmer for 10 minutes.

Fiery Prawn and Coconut Curry

Step 8 - Whilst your delicious curry is simmering, I like to prepare my Basmati Rice and warm Naan Breads. I love Garlic and Coriander Naan, but you can also use plain or Peshwari.

Fiery Prawn and Coconut Curry

Step 9 - Plate up and ENJOY!

If you missed the previous recipes in my Winter Warmers series, I've made a gorgeous Spiced Butternut Squash Soup and some Super Sizzling Chicken Fajitas! 

What are your favourite curries to make?
10:00 No comments
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