City Break: Packing for a weekend in Paris

I think it'd be pretty hard to have missed how excited I am that I'm returning. But allow me to clarify that I am UNBELIEVABLY EXCITED. It actually feels like I'm going home. Ever since I left, pretty much this same time last year, I've wanted to return and this summer finally provided me with the opportunity. What better way to spend my 22nd birthday (eeek!) in my favourite city in the world? Naturally, with such excitement came an epic planning/organisation explosion. I'm pretty sure I've driven mum insane. My packing list has been slowly finalised over the last month or so. Considering I'm going for a total of two nights, I actually do understand how ridiculous this sounds but in case you hadn't gathered - I'm excited. It's also meant to be hot when we're there. And I mean hot. Like currently an estimated 38 degrees on Wednesday, whaaaat! Amazing, but I also remember how sticky the city can be so forward outfit planning is a good idea. So here's a second post for this week (crazy, I know) about what I'll be taking along with me on my Paris summer city break...

Basics
3x tops, one of them striped (of course!)
2x skater skirt, one black, one denim
1x pair loose jeans for travelling
Comfy shoes (don't be fooled though, even Clark's can be comfy and stylish)
(I hope I don't need to say underwear here, I feel like that's a given!)

Special
Dress for the evening
Exercise clothes (if you're like me and can't resist the opportunity to go for a run while you're there!)

Extras
Sunglasses - do not forget those sunnies
1x belt to accessorise (mainly with the skater skirt)
1x scarf, also to accessorise and as a good wrap in the evenings
Across the body bag (think having it slung around your front to keep an eye on it) or one with a decent zip, I still haven't decided on the one I'm taking!

And here's some outfit ideas that I've got in mind...

By watching all the Parisians and their impeccable style for a year, I've learnt that it's good to stick to fairly neutral colours. Think blacks, whites, navies - all classics that can be mixed and matched. Also, make sure you're comfortable... You don't see Parisians wiggling about in their short shorts because they keep riding up - they just wear longer, looser, comfier clothes and exude that incredibly chic je ne sais quoi we all know and love.

Having spent time in Paris, I feel so much better prepared and have a fairly good idea about not screaming 'tourist' with my clothes! I'd like to think I'm not a tourist, but of course, in the eyes of the Parisians, I'm sure I am! If you're planning a similar city break and are struggling with packing, I hope this has helped! I'd love to know any other ideas/tips you have, comment below! :)

It's my birthday!

Twenty-twoooo

Okay so technically it isn't my birthday today, but it will be on Tuesday and since I'm leaving to go to Paris (eeeekk!!!) tomorrow, I thought I'd pre-empt the birthday post this year.

At the risk of sounding like a parrot, how quickly does time pass the older you get? It seems like just a few weeks ago that I was writing 'This is becoming a yearly tradition' in the post title box. Although I haven't been in an entirely different country this year, I think it's safe to say I've faced similarly difficult challenges and been on an equally emotional rollercoaster.

I've finished university! Boom, four years of my life gone. Poof. Over so quickly. The struggle of final year is real guys, both emotionally and work-wise. I've had to adjust to going back and studying again (intensely and under a huge amount of pressure), only to leave for the last time and get acquainted with the real adult world. That's been scary enough, but what's maybe more nerve-wracking is the thought of starting a new job. Nerve-wracking and so exciting at the same time because I do feel ready to move on now. Uni was great and was absolutely the best thing for me, but it's done it's job and now I can't wait to start creating a real life for myself, a real grown-up life.

This year has been both an end and a beginning, has brought massive highs as well as some lows but I'm going to see the next year of my life as a stepping stone in paving the way for my future. It's daunting, but I'm determined to make the most of every minute and begin making the life I want to live.

The positivity is currently overflowing (possibly something to do with the fact I'm going to Paris in less than 24 hours!!) but I'm aiming to make it stay! I'm feeling 22 ♪♪

Five Favourites: Blogs

It's Fridaaayyyy! For the first time in a long time I've got the genuine Friday feeling because I've just had my first full working week before I begin my job properly at the beginning of August. Even though it's nice to come home and be able to leave work behind, my supposedly completely free evenings have still been super busy this week. Exercise classes, riding and running have all figured and I have to admit, I'm loving having a bit of routine and purpose now that university has finished. I also have a nice slot in the mornings which allow me to mull over my breakfast and check out the latest on my favourite blogs... Which leads me nicely onto my Five Favourites this week! In no particular order, these are my go-to blogs for checking updates, finding recipes, or just generally seeking advice/comfort!

1. Cider with Rosie
I included Rosie's Instagram account on here a couple of weeks ago (post here), and thought it was time to recommend her blog because it's just an all-round great read. She includes restaurant reviews, beauty posts, outfit ideas, and generally lovely snapshots of her life. She also regularly features other bloggers who advertise on her site, and I've found some great new blogs through her.

2. Deliciously Ella
I've said it before and I'll say it again - Ella Woodward is incredible. I honestly believe she could be taking over the world. She's taken the internet by storm and is an Amazon bestseller since her first cookbook was published back in January (I'm a proud owner of a copy). It all started with this blog where she documented her food journey as she struggled to overcome an illness. She strives (and wholeheartedly succeeds) to create delicious but completely healthy and nutritious recipes designed to make you feel amazing. She partly inspired my diet transformation about a year ago, and I have never looked back. I cannot recommend this site enough.

3. Ashley Abroad 
This one is a relatively new discover of mine but admitting that three months after graduation she left to live in Paris for a year, I knew Ashley was a girl after my own heart. Her blog is a lifestyle and travel blog and she really does write incredible travel pieces and exudes the most wonderfully positive and refreshing attitude to life. Her posts on Paris and France are of particular interest to me, and they really are useful for those thinking of spending time over there.

4. The Wonder Forest
I turn to this beautifully designed blog for anything blog or tech related. Dana is a master of design and has given me such great ideas for building my blog in future and also how to get things working properly! Her graphics are great, and her photos gorgeous and those alone are enough to inspire greater things for your website. She also has a great tone to her writing, and her YouTube channel allows her bubbly nature to come across.Fit 

5. Fit Foodie Finds
Lee is my go-to for any exercises, quick and healthy meals and general motivation. She's a real fit-bunny whose positivity shines through her blog and just makes you want to grab your trainers and then recuperate with one of her yummy breakfast ideas. I discovered her website a while back, and it's recently undergone a bit of a makeover which I love. It's so much clearer and easier to navigate and makes the food look even more incredible. If you're into your healthy lifestyle, this is definitely one for you!


I hope you like some of these blogs and I have encouraged you to try something new! I love the blogging world because it opens up a world of completely new possibilities of meeting and interacting with incredible and inspiring people like those above. Are there any blogs you particularly like? Do you religiously check for new posts? Or do you prefer vlogging? As always, sound off in the comments below!

How to start running (and never stop)

Let me start this post by saying that by no means do I class myself as an excellent or highly experienced runner. I haven't run any marathons, or half-marathons for that matter, and I've only been running for about two years which is apparently quite a short period of time in the running world. However, I think what I am able to offer is a 'normal' person's view of the exercise and how I genuinely believe that anyone can start running and learn to love it. Sound too good to be true? Read on!

I think there's this assumption that to be a runner, you have to be naturally sporty and fit. I can tell you now that, in my case, that idea could not be further from the truth. I began running during my year abroad in France because with no internet connection and a lack of a social life, I needed to fill my time and also find an outlet for the stress and anxiety that came with moving countries. I found this in running. Sure, I'd tried to get into it in previous summers and loved seeing an improvement but I gave up pretty quickly. It was always easier to sit in and eat (because I've always loved food) rather than to get out running. Nevertheless, I kept at it in France. Probably driven by my situation, I started around October time and shortly I was going about three times a week.

Knowing that I had to run past the school children (including some of those I taught) or that I would have to get up early to avoid them almost hindered my motivation. But I think the key to combatting excuses and discomfort comes with routine. I organised my runs around my teaching days and knew I loved to run early on a Sunday morning because I was usually the only one around. After about three weeks, it became habit and gradually I felt my ability getting better and better until I managed to run for 40 minutes without stopping. Soon, I'd continued throughout the Christmas period when I had returned home. I'd even had to buy a new pair of trainers, and I was considering signing up for 5kms races when I came back to the UK.

And, unbelievably, I stuck at it. I stress that I am not a sporty girl (or at least, I wasn't!)- I was the girl who hated PE at school. But I think once I'd got myself into the routine and began to see a quick improvement which does happen when you first start, my motivation stayed and it became normal. Now, I can honestly say I love it. Sure I have bad runs, but I've never regretted a run and I think that's key. I'm always pleased I've got out, even if it's only for half an hour, and if I go for even a day or two without running I get a real itch to go again. It's a part of my life, and whenever I feel myself getting a bit reluctant to go, all I have to remember are some of my longest and best runs; absolutely nothing beats reaching the top of a tough hill and being met with the view of a sunrise. 

So if you take anything from this post, take these five points:

1. Don't think you can't run, because everyone can (unless you have injuries, in that case you're forgiven!). All you need is a pair of trainers and headphones. 

2. It's horrible to admit it to yourself but the voices inside your head that say 'go tomorrow', or 'it's a bit early' are excuses and if you really do want to run or exercise more, I promise you'll feel 10 times better once you recognise that and overcome them.

3. Get into a routine. Dedicate a certain time each week and stick to it for a few weeks and it'll start to feel normal.

4. Recognise and appreciate your improvement. You know that tree that you couldn't run to last time? Feel that pride once you pass it because even if it's only by a few metres, that's still an improvement and it'll make you feel epic.

5. Finally, if you ever feel like you 'can't' (the amount of times this word has been through my head is probably in its millions), remember some of my favourite running quotes:

I hope this post has been helpful, I definitely could have done with some reassurance when I first started. So go and get motivated!! And let me know below how you get on! 

Five Favourites: Smoothies

Happy Friday everyone! Today's Five Favourites are my top smoothie choices. I like to play around with recipes depending on what I actually have in the fridge/freezer but these are definitely firm favourites for me. All healthy, delicious and thick treats which are sure to get your day off to a good start! I love topping mine with leftover fruit, and/or seeds. Some of these don't require more unusual ingredients like chia or flax seeds, although I've found that buying these in means I have them on hand for a great breakfast boost and they last me ages!

Fit Foodie Finds

Creamy Strawberry Chia Smoothie from Fit Foodie Finds. Super creamy and yummy. The chia seeds can be left out, just be aware that they help to thicken it up a bit.

Simple Green Smoothies

Mango Green Smoothie from Simple Green Smoothies. Get your greens in with this one and you won't even taste it. Mango is one of my favourite fruits so this definitely brings a great start to my mornings!

Martha Stewart

Blueberry Banana Smoothie from Martha Stewart. This is incredibly easy and only has three ingredients. Quick, simple and failsafe with the perfect combination of blueberries and bananas.

Deliciously Ella

Cacao, Banana and Avocado Smoothie from Deliciously Ella. Always my go-to site for any kind of healthy recipe, Ella nails combining sweet, dessert-like flavours with a nutritious kick. 

Minimalist Baker

Summer Berry Smoothie from Minimalist Baker. Perfect for summer with all those berries coming into season. If I had a swimming pool, this is what I would sip on lounging in the sun.

I hope something's caught your eye here! All of these websites are great for finding other healthy recipes, whether you're looking for meal ideas or healthy snacking options. Do you have a favourites smoothie recipe? Let me know below! 

June wishlist

Summer always brings tempting new products in the shops which put my bank balance in danger. This year is no exception with gorgeous prints and feminine cuts, plus numerous other goodies that I would like to purchase immediately. So here's 10 things on my wishlist this month...

1. What Would Audrey Do from Oliver Bonas. 
Audrey Hepburn's fabulousness overwhelms me. I'm a huge fan and absolutely love to watch her. So imagine my excitement when I stumbled across this new addition to the collection of books in Oliver Bonas. I want to put on my pearls and flick through every single page aspiring to ooze the Hepburn charm.

2. Floral short wellies from Joules.
Summer showers? Preparing for festival season? Joules have got you covered. I love love love these ones in particular because of the floral print, but there are loads of others to choose from.

3. Branch rings from Pia.
Tried these on in the shop and instantly fell in love. So dainty, so pretty, so me. 

4. Floral frill duvet cover from John Lewis.

As you know, homewares are my weakness and I've got my eye on another duvet to go with my newly neutral room. This is particularly cute with the detailing.

5. Cap sleeve dress from French Connection.

I just love the colour and pattern of this dress. With a light coloured blazer and a pair of nude heels, it would just look so perfectly summery and elegant. Plus, it's in the sale! The temptation is real.

6. Run tank from Sweaty Betty.

Oh, Sweaty Betty... If only my bank account had the funds, I would repeatedly buy everything in your shops. For now though, this is a definite favourite for summer running in a bright colour (but not too bright, this is me after all!) but lose enough to benefit from nice evening breezes.

7. Molly skirt from Boden.

I originally saw this on Cider with Rosie (post here - definitely check out her blog, it's awesome) and got a lovely surprise because it's also got money off at the moment. Rosie pulls it off so well in her post that I was immediately tempted, even more so when I saw that Boden pair it with the striped breton I also have!

8. Stripe zip tee from Mint Velvet.

Speaking of striped tops... Here's one I love because the zip detailing makes it a little bit different. I also find Mint Velvet is a bit hit and miss - I normally love all the colours and shades but struggle to like some of the styles which aren't very flattering on me. This top, however, is a hit with me!

9. Scallop trim swimsuit from Topshop.

I think I'm probably with the majority of the population who love this swimsuit. I feel like I've seen it everywhere. When I finally tracked it down, I fell in love with it even more. Super cute with a retro vibe, I'd be perfectly happy if they wanted to design a similar top.

10. Alison shirt from Crew Clothing.

Perfectly cool for a summer preppy look, this shirt paired with white shorts or crops would be totally dreamy. 

Like anything you see here? Do you have anything that you're loving at the moment? As always, I'd love to hear from you!

Five Favourites: Instagram Accounts

Happy Friday everyone! I'm introducing this new feature today, Five Favourites. Since I'm a Literature student (or was, *cry*) and alliteration comes to me as naturally as adding numbers comes to a mathematician , I thought doing Five Favourites as a feature on a Friday was appropriate. I thought I'd start with my favourite Instagram accounts because I'm the first to admit that my morning ritual of scrolling through my stream probably borderlines obsessive. But I actually struggled to pick just five accounts for this! I really wanted to choose some of the smaller accounts I follow, so a follow up post might be required! But I feel like these five cover a little bit of every interest, and are definitely the accounts I look out for when I scroll through Instagram. Check them out, and give them a follow...

A photo posted by Rebecca 🌹 (@fromrosesxo) on Apr 27, 2015 at 12:08pm PDT

@fromrosesxo
Beautiful, just like her blog, Rebecca's Instagram account is a mix of style, beauty and her cute dog. I love the look of her pictures and I definitely take hints from her interior decor! 

A photo posted by Ella Woodward (@deliciouslyella) on Jun 4, 2015 at 2:27am PDT

@deliciouslyella 
Since I begin following Ella Woodward and her food blog Deliciously Ella about 18 months ago, she's shot into the limelight and her success has rocketed. I attributed a good chunk of my healthier lifestyle to the delicious and nutritional recipes on her blog, but also to her attitude. I cannot recommend following her enough, or better yet checking out her blog here. Positivity and happiness oozes from every corner of all her social media and it's enough to seriously inspire.

A photo posted by Rachel Brathen (@yoga_girl) on Jun 4, 2015 at 6:24pm PDT

@yoga_girl 
Everyone seemed to have discovered Rachel Brathen before me. I blame that on the fact I only recently started to fall in love with yoga and stumbled across her account. Best stumble I ever made. Practicing incredible yoga positions against equally incredible backdrops, you'll find yourself captivated by Rachel's life.

A photo posted by Shay Mitchell (@shaym) on May 27, 2015 at 5:35pm PDT

@shaym
The absolutely stunning Shay Mitchell has an equally stunning Instagram account. I am constantly amazed at the pictures she posts - she's a seriously inspiring woman. Includes everything from her life from her travels and fashion shoots, to behind-the-scenes on Pretty Little Liars and pizza (she loves pizza, so naturally we love her).

A photo posted by Rosie (@ciderwithrosieblog) on Feb 10, 2015 at 9:47am PST

@ciderwithrosieblog 
I think I've mentioned before that I love Rosie's blog, and her Instagram account is no exception. It has a cute, cozy and homely vibe combined with outdoors shots that I naturally love. It's the sort of account I look up to and a blog that I follow religiously.


Which Instagram accounts do you love? I love discovering new accounts so post below if you know some awesome accounts to follow, including your own! Find me here (@rhthomason)

5 things I've got planned for summer having finished university

I just submitted my final piece of university work, ever! Should I feel happy, elated? Sad, scared? On the one hand it's brilliant - I can get back to blogging, yay! I've seriously missed it actually. Just being able to post my little thoughts is a really good outlet, and not having had the time to do it recently has been surprisingly frustrating. On the other hand, to say that I'm feeling a mixture of emotions is putting it mildly. I've spent four years working solidly toward this moment and it's a bit of a strange anti-climax. I'll never have that feeling of 'oh, I should be doing work for that essay' ever again (unless I do a Masters, which could actually be on the cards). I'll also never have to read a book again. Both of these concepts are completely foreign to me. The idea of having completely free evenings and weekends without the guilt of not working, and the idea of being able to read a book because I want to and not have to analyse it, sounds amazing. But I already know it's going to take some serious getting used to.

University has been an incredible experience and has allowed me to grow as a person. By far the greatest highlight was my placement year in Paris, and I can't imagine the city not playing a serious part in my future. I also can't deny that I have thoroughly enjoyed my degree. I love Literature (hence considering the Masters) and I think I'll really miss studying the subject. But by far the best aspect of these four years is the people I've met. People say you meet friends for life at university, and I 100% understand that now. It'll be strange to take these friendships from university and into our new working lives but being in Paris taught me that your best friends will always be there. You know who you are, and you've helped make university so special for me.

That's enough of the mushy stuff. For now, I've got plenty of things lined up for summer before I begin work (scary stuff) and I thought I'd share because then I can use it as a little list to tick off as I go along...

1. Go sailing. Something I've wanted to do again since I did it in France, and since we're so close to a sailing centre, I have absolutely no excuses!

2. Attend a sewing class. My sewing machine has been sitting in the spare room for about 9 months and I hate the thought that I haven't really managed to start any projects. With a place that offers such classes in the next village (do you know how rare it is to have anything that close to us?!) I need to get stitching!

3. Go to Paris. This one is pretty much ticked off because, exciting news: I've booked to go back for my birthday!! I had promised and promised myself over the last year that I would go back but it's now been roughly a year since I was there and I just have to return, or I think I'll have a breakdown. Excited does not begin to cover it.

4. Compete in the local jumping competitions. Even if it's just once, this is something I need to do before I get tied down with work. Somehow I've never really made it (partly because I have a crazy horse) but we'll get there.

5. Graduate. This is kind of obvious, and inevitable... But this is mainly on my list because I want it to be a landmark that I can use to look back at the past four years and appreciate how far I've come. Plus, graduation ball is on the same evening and it could be the last time I'm united with all my friends for a while so I want to have an incredible and memorable time!

Is anyone else graduating this summer? If you've been faced with assignments/exams like me, I hope they're all going well!