MY TOP 5 CHRISTMAS SONGS

If there's something I love about Christmas it's Christmas music. Driving home and putting on a good old bit of Chris Rea - is there anything better in life?

It's not that Christmas music is the most incredible movie you've ever heard in your life or even that it's going to be Grammy award winning. But being able to put jingle bells behind every backing track just makes me feel so happy that it even exists.

So I thought I'd put together my top 5 Christmas songs of all time so everyone can enjoy just a little bit of festive spirit and good ol' jingle bells...

disclaimer: this post is not sponsored, endorsed or affiliated.

MAKING A GINGERBREAD HOUSE

As a Christmas lover, it may shock you to hear that I've never made a Gingerbread House. I know right? What the hell are you playing at I hear you cry! So on the weekend I made it my mission to find a gingerbread house...

Now I'll admit, I know it's slightly cheating to use a premade kit but I do have a number of excuses. Firstly, I can't eat wheat so to actually made gingerbread that I can't eat anyway seemed a bit pointless to me. Secondly, I was starting to come down with a cold and didn't feel like spending the whole day slaving over, again, something I can't eat. And finally, I'm lazy AF. 

So let us begin. 

I picked up this Make Your Own Gingerbread House from Tesco for just £4. What a freaking bargain. It comes with all the essentials you'll need including base, gingerbread, icing and sweeties decorations. May I add at this point - I bought another packet of smarties to add to the house but they gave enough sweets to decorte it with that I didn't need them! 

Somehow they managed to find their way into my tummy... whoops!

I started by using the icing to stick the front of the house to the base and put two strips of icing up each side to make the walls stick to each other. As per the instructions, this is the way to do it. However, I wish at this point I'd done the icing on the windows as it was so difficult to pipe flat onto the walls and make it stick... hence the excess of drop down icing to hide my mistakes. We can't all be perfect. 

Next up I added all the icing and decorations to make the house look super cute and festive and like something out of a frigging Hanz Christian Anderson novel. Beautiful. 

Finally just to make it super duper cute I sprinkled icing sugar over the top to make it look like snow. I love it. 

I couldn't be happier with my first attempt at a Gingerbread House and I simply cannot wait to take it into work and have everyone omomnomnonm on it. 

Yum. 

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A DAY IN BATH

On Friday Rob and I both took a day off work and trecked on up to Bath in hunt of the Christmas market.

Even though we work together we don't often get to spend actual quality time together so it was really lovely just to have a day of doing something together that wasn't food shopping, admin or other bits and bobs that get in the way of have a good old time.

So here below are some of the lovely photos we took of our adventure day in Bath...

A CHRISTMAS TREE FARM

There's something just so magical about Christmas trees and whenever I see one I always feel a little fluttering of excitement inside thinking about all the magical moments to come over this month. 

So you can imagine my feelings when I went to a Christmas tree farm yesterday. Surrounded by all shapes and sizes of Christmas trees just waiting to be chopped down and taken home! 

I personally don't have a real Christmas tree in my house simply because I can't get it into my car and home so this year we've opted for a artificial tree. Rob's family however, as per tradition, love a good old real Christmas tree. 

We wandered all around the forest in search of the perfect tree - not too fat, not too tall, not with a long stalk and just the perfect amount of bushels. 

Boy was that a more difficult task than I had anticipated! What a challenge it was indeed. But then, through the midst of furs, we found it! The perfect little tree to take home and decorate. 

Absolutely bloody wonderful. And next year, I'll definitely be going and getting myself a real fresh Christmas tree!

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SMALL WAYS TO FEEL FESTIVE

We all have those days where we just don't feel quite ourselves and sometimes those days happen at the worst of times - christmas. 

Now if there's anything that makes me feel better its feeling festive. That warm and cosy feeling where you know everything is going to be okay because you have jingle bells playing in your head.

And that was me yesterday. I just needed a little bit of quiet time on my own, away from all the stresses of everyday life just to indulge in a little bit of me time. Lovely. 

So here are my top 5 tips for feeling a little bit festive this season... 

1) A mini Christmas tree

We can wonder about our tree in the living room all we like. That is the main man and we all know it. But there's nothing quite like coming up the stairs and seeing just a little twinkling coming from your bedroom. Lightbulbs reflecting on baubles - heaven. This year I decided to go for a silver and bronze theme - something I've never done before - I'm a bit of a traditionalist. But after lusting after a bronze shaped tree decoration in Wilko I just knew it was the way to go. And every time I come up my stairs and get ready for bed it just makes me think - ahh. Home. 

2) Christmas candles

Not only do they smell absolute fantastic but they also make me feel all warm and cosy and just entirely lovely. I picked up this one from Sainsburys the other day for just £4. What a bloody bargain. It apparently smells like figgy pudding - I don't think it does but its wonderful none the less. When it's done I'm going to use it as a bowl for quality street. Yum!

3) Painting your nails

Now I aint just talking any old random painting of the nails. I'm talking pillar box red, glitter gold or sparkling silver - something that just screams CHRISTMAS! I currently have on the Barry M Gelly nail varnish in Blood Orange. Not a festive name but a damn festive colour. 

4) Cleaning the house and putting on some Buble

Is there anything better than our main man boobs at Christmas. Doesn't he just make you feel like all your insides are melting into a pool of dreamy deliciousness? No? Just me? Let's carry on...

5) Fire

Bear with me here. I don't mean just getting an old fire pit or setting shit alight. I'm talking a good old traditional log fire with that warm crackling feeling that just travels through the entire house. Sitting in front of that with a snuggly blanket, a good old book or a Christmas film with the lights of the Christmas tree just twinkling in the background. I guarantee you'll be feeling lovely and festive in no time. 

Now if after all that you still don't feel festive well you just a big ol' scrooge then aren't you. 

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DECORATING MY PARENT''S HOUSE

There's something I just do not understand about my mother. She hates putting up the Christmas decorations.

But luckily for her I absolutely love it. So when I went home last weekend I took it upon myself to make the house feel festive and fab!

The thing about Christmas decorations is that it takes a long time to build up a collection. My own home is looking a bit sparse, lacking in those individual decorations that you've accumulated over the years. And that's why I love going home. We have a whole range of things that have just been picked up along the way, whether that's just shopping in Marks and Spencer or going to a Christmas market.

So this year, I thought I'd share these with you. I hope you enjoy them as much as I do.

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MY TOP CHRISTMAS ADVERTS OF 2015

There's nothing quite like the moment when the Christmas adverts arrive on TV. You're just casually scrolling through twitter on your phone, tv playing in the background, when suddenly you hear those recognisable jingle bells. The sound of fake snow falling on summer grounds. Is there anything better?

Every year there is more of a push on Christmas adverts, John Lewis being one of the greats of all time I think we can agree. There's even a spotify playlist dedicated to the theme songs of Christmas adverts through the ages. We as a nation just can't get enough.

Long gone are the simple days when the Coca Cola advert was repeated every year with the same recogniseable tune (even though we still love it). TV Adverts have to be bigger, better, bolder than the year before and compete with their competators at the same time.

Something happened in 2015 and suddenly every supermarket, every brand, every shop have their own individual Christmas advert playing the latest hits of the year - I'm looking at you ASDA.

So I thought I'd put together of my top picks of the tv adverts from 2015 and give us all a place where we can come and just enjoy a few moments of retailer jingle bell bliss.

Go a head, click play. You know you want to...

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GIFT GUIDE: FOR HIM

Sometimes, we all need a helping hand. And when it comes to boys, I could sure as hell use it. 

To me they are an entirely different species. A species that doesn't understand the importance of a blending brush or value how much effort it took to get yourself looking even approachable on a normal day (thanks media giants for your self confidence). 

So when it comes to buying Christmas presents for my boyfriend this year, I thank the gods that are gift guides for him. What would we do without you sweet saviour of the internet? The little icon of happiness that reads 'Gift Guide: For Him' come to mama! 

So I've put together a little collection of all my favourite things from a few of 'him' gift guides this year. My personal fave being the self adhesive beards... who wouldn't want them in their life?! 

So whether your gent is a dapper gent or in desperate need of a style guide, check out my epic list of the 10 best pics of 2015 below! 

Moustache Comb http://bit.ly/1SIOcvV

Reindeer Jumper http://bit.ly/1OKwWqS

Wash Bag http://bit.ly/1JqAZFn

Pyjamas http://bit.ly/1OPEBCx

Holdall http://bit.ly/1XOX3Te

Feeding a Crowd book http://bit.ly/1LYvRp4

Boots http://bit.ly/1SIOoew

Hat http://bit.ly/1N6frPq

Icons of Style book http://bit.ly/1NF8bHo

Self Adhesive Beards http://bit.ly/1HQ9GGJ

DECORATING MY HOME

There is something so enchantingly magical about hanging decorations on the Christmas tree. Putting the whole look together and finding the perfect branch for each individual little decoration, whether that be a filler bauble (more on this later) or an extra special decoration that reminds you of an extra special time.

So I thought I would share with you some of my special decorations I've picked up this year for my tree. I'm heading off home this weekend to decorate the family tree so there'll be even more cute reindeer pictures to follow next week! 

This little Santa, which is so feckin cute I can't handle it, was purchased from the Westpoint Exeter Christmas Fair. A magical space filled with all the most gorgeous decorations for Christmas. He was £3. What a bargain.

He be like whaddup, liek my tree?

Now. Onto the garland. This thing was a bit of an impulse purchase from IKEA as I felt that Christmas needed to make an appearance all through the house. The garland was plain originally but I added beads and red baubles to really give it that festive feel and fit in with the theme. I love it and it makes me feel super festive every time I walk up the stairs. 

These photos were taken by my boyf when I let him play with the camera. Much cute. 

Disclaimer: this post is not sponsored, endorsed or affiliated.

GIFT GUIDE: FOR HER

We all know the feeling. That dreaded moment when your girlfriend asks 'are we doing Christmas presents this year?' Cue sweating, shakes and panic. You may know them better than they know themselves but that doesn't mean you've got a clue what to buy them!

Sometimes with presents we get it so right. You can see it in the look in their eyes, when they just light up and you know yep I've hit the spot right there. Sometimes, however, we can get it so so wrong. I'm talking about you vw money box when I was 19. 

There are so many amazing things I would love to have and so many lovely things I would love to gift. And as hence, they've probably been included in this Gift Guide. 

A simple way to say, generally, you should buy all these things now! Whether they love a bit of glam or love a good cosy up on the sofa, there's something for everyone.

Now: not so subtle hint. I love the River Island handbag... 😘

River Island Handbag http://www.riverisland.com/women/bags--purses/shopper--tote-bags/cream-mini-faux-fur-tote-handbag-675671

L'OCCITANE ALMOND http://www.marksandspencer.com/delicious-almond-collection/p/p22422046

Unicorn notebooks http://www.newlook.com/shop/womens/gifts/3-pack-white-unicorn-a6-notebooks-_356350099

Fluffy socks http://www.newlook.com/shop/womens/accessories/2-pack-red-boucle-slipper-socks_354945069

Sam Edelman shoes http://www.asos.com/Sam-Edelman/Sam-Edelman-Reyes-Steel-Grey-Leather-Heeled-Ankle-Boots/Prod/pgeproduct.aspx?iid=5605902&cid=14513&sh=0&pge=1&pgesize=36&sort=-1&clr=Steel+grey&totalstyles=347&gridsize=3

Topshop bag http://www.topshop.com/en/tsuk/product/bags-accessories-1702216/bags-purses-462/clutch-bags-649/clean-zip-top-clutch-4910568?bi=20&ps=20

Ray bans http://www.asos.com/Ray-Ban/Ray-Ban-Mirror-Aviator-Sunglasses/Prod/pgeproduct.aspx?iid=5803690&cid=14513&sh=0&pge=0&pgesize=36&sort=-1&clr=Rose&totalstyles=347&gridsize=3

Headphones http://www.asos.com/Frends/FRENDS-Layla-Rose-Gold-Headphones/Prod/pgeproduct.aspx?iid=6093126&cid=14513&sh=0&pge=0&pgesize=36&sort=-1&clr=Rose+gold&totalstyles=347&gridsize=3

Cuff http://shop.mango.com/GB/p0/women/accessories/jewellery/embossed-metal-cuff/?id=63070203_OR&n=1&s=accesorios.bisuteria&ident=0__0_1449170681033&ts=1449170681033&p=19

Cocktail cards http://teaandkate.co.uk/collections/for-her/products/rifle-paper-cocktail-recipe-cards-set-of-12

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MY CHRISTMAS WISHLIST

Ever since I was a little girl I have always given my mother a Christmas wishlist. Usually made on microsoft word using a holly border. Classic.

And this year is absolutely no different. I may not live at home but my mum will still receive some form of Christmas list whether that be by text message, email or delivered by the elves next week. Who knows?

Now I’m well aware that this is indeed a ‘wishlist’, hence the expensive price tag on some of the items. I am by no means asking for ALL the items on the list but I like to give people a general idea of what things I would like to request this year. Because, after all… I’ve been very good *insert halo emoji here*.

For me Christmas wishlists are a way of putting down all the things that will make you feel fabulous this Christmas because let’s face it, money can’t buy you happiness but don’t you dare deny that buying yourself a chocolate bar after a tough day didn’t make that just a little bit easier. You know what I’m saying.

Anyways, a few things on this list *cough* Gucci Guilty *cough* I have been lusting after for many many years and still every year put them on my list knowing that I won’t be gifted with its gorgeousness this year. We live in hope.

So at long last; here is my Christmas wishlist 2015.

Gucci Guilty
Real Techniques bold metals set
Electric Toothbrush
Power hairdryer with diffuser
Nike New Balance Trainers

Disclaimer: This post is in no way sponsored, affiliated or endorsed. All opinions my own.

MY NEW CHRISTMAS DECORATIONS

If there's one thing I love it's buying, putting up and looking at Christmas decorations. Okay that's three things but still. When I walk into Tescos and see the gleaming line of new decorations just waiting for me to buy them and take them home my heart practically leaps with joy. 

And that's exactly what happened. The other day I was just happily going about my life in Tesco doing my food shopping for the week and low and behold there were the Christmas decorations. And now just any Christmas decorations but Christmas decorations on offer for 3 for 2. 

How could I resist? 

Another thing that happens is on my lunch break I seem to get drawn into Wilko and spend a good 20 minutes browsing their new in decorations and coming away with all the most gorgeous things I can get my hands on. 

What can you do eh?

Now seeing as I've just moved into a new house and started my new life as a grown woman living away home, the first thing that was essential was starting my very own Christmas decoration collection. 

I don't like it when Christmas tree's are just filled with a load of random baubles that you can't really remember where they're from. I like individual designs, cute figures and things that really stand out amongst the mass of red and green. 

And hence. Here begins the Brettlesblog Christmas decoration stash... that I'm sure will continue to grow throughout the month. Whoops! 

Disclaimer: this post is not sponsored, endorsed or in any way affiliated. All opinions are my own. All products purchased with my own money. 

THAT CHRISTMAS FEELING

There are many things I love about Christmas; the faint sound of jingle bells and Christmas music wherever you go, the twinkling lights in shop windows, the excitement on little children's (and my own) faces when they think about the imminent arrival of Santa.

Christmas is magical. I don't think even the Grinch would deny it. For one whole month you're absolutely allowed to indulge your inner child, sing songs, wear festive jumpers, wrap yourself up in fairy lights should you please. Christmas is a time when we can fully let ourselves love and enjoy and be merry. To forget about the troubles of our life and just celebrate!

There's nothing quite like that feeling of coming home after a long day at work and being welcomed by a jingling wreath on your front door, the promise of mince pies and cream awaiting you as you set foot in the door and finally settling down on the sofa in your best reindeer pyjamas and putting on a good ol' bit of Love Actually (is there anything better?!).

They say that people are one of two things; givers or receivers. And when it comes to Christmas I am most definitely a giver. The look on your friend's face when you hand them a perfectly wrapped present adorned with ribbon and bows galore and they simply LOVE the thing that awaits them inside. That is my heroine. I live off the smile for the entire year until it comes around again the next year. Because there's nothing quite like making someone happy and reminding them how important they are and how much you care for them.

And that's why I've decided again to do blogmas! To challenge myself to put out one festive post from now until Christmas day in the hope that it makes someone, maybe myself, smile.

Wow. I'm not even ready. Are you?

So sit back, relax and enjoy a whole array of DIY, food pics and festive fun for all!

COLLECTION #BLUSHANDGLOW PALETTE REVIEW

There's nothing more satisfying than finding a product that you just absolutely fall in love with and instantly pop it into your make up bag. 

And that's what I've discovered with the new Collection #BlushandGlow palette. Multi purpose, incredible pigment and rather gorgeous looking packaging - all for £4.99? 

Including a matte bronzer, matte pink blusher, shimmer pink blusher and shimmer gold highlighter, this set is all your facial neccessities rolled into one. I simply cannot get enough. 

Since buying this product two weeks ago, I have used it practically everyday and it has become a staple in my everyday basics make up routine. 

So let's start with the packaging. Now even I will admit it's not exactly a handbag size product but I think for the price you get a hell of a lot of incredible product so we can't really moan about that now can we? 

The matte black packaging kind've screams luxury in my eyes. If you've read my KIKO post you'll know how much I go heart eyes over matte black. But I digress. The rose gold writing gives this little wonder palette a feeling of luxury I don't feel you get with other Collection products. 

In my opinion Collection is a highly underrated brand. With incredible pigments at an affordable price, let's just look at the absolute dream that is the Collection lasting perfection concealer - need I say more? Everyone needs to up the amount of Collection in their make up bags.  

As for the colours, these are quite possibly my favourite collection of colours I've found in a palette. Usually there's always one colour that doesn't quite suit you or the colour pay off just doesn't match up to the gorgeous colours you see before your eyes. 

But that's where Collection have got it absolutely spot on. The matte bronzer is a great way of adding just a hint of colour to your cheeks without giving that muddy 'what's that on your cheek' appearance. As well as the highlighter, this gives you that awesome golden LA glow that we all crave! My favourite look at the moment is to use the highlighter and bronzer as eyeshadows for a subtle day look that really requires no effort at all.

The two shades of blush are again a dream. Whether you want just a hint of pink or to go all our and have that really rosy glow, there's a colour in this palette just for you. Each shade is also build-able so you can go for as natural or intense as you like. 

So I think to sum up, high tail your ass to boots PRONTO and pick up the Collection #BlushandGlow palette before it sells out! 

Disclaimer: this post is not sponsored, endorsed or affiliated in any way with Collection or Boots. I purchased the product with my own money.

MY NEW BEDROOM

A few weeks ago I upped out of Plymouth and high tailed myself into a brand new unfurnished house in Exeter. I'm officially a grown up, paying my own bills, putting the bins out every monday and messing up what they'll take and having to do my own food shopping. 

There's a certain freedom that comes with living away from home that don't get me wrong is wonderful, but it's a hell of a lot more responsability. 

Moving into a new place means that, unlike being a student, I don't have to worry about mould, damp, rats, broken fridges and so much more drama that doesn't help you when you're in your final year at University. My new house is practically flawless. Cream walls, cream carpets and a spanking new kitchen - the absolute dream. 

But moving into an unfurnished property means that I offically have become an adult in possession of my own furniture. Not odd bits and bobs that have come from my parents or pre-owned by the landlord. With the help of my absolute darling of a boyfriend, we built practically the entire IKEA Hemnes set last weekend. 

And so I welcome you to Ally's Bedroom 2.0. 

Enjoy. 

Colin my cactus is loving life in his new home under the lamp. 

Disclaimer: this post is not sponsored, endorsed or paid for in any way.