C2C - Christmas Dinner + Last Day Of C2C

Hi everybody!
So it is now the 24th of December which means it is the last day of Countdown2Christmas 2013 which also means that this will be the last blogpost for Countdown2Christmas. I honestly cannot believe that tomorrow is Christmas Day. December went by so fast for me and I'm really excited for Christmas but also really sad because 2013 is coming to an end.

So because it is the last day of C2C, I thought that it was only right for this blogpost to be about Christmas dinner. Christmas dinner is pretty much what everyone looks forward to during Christmas, well, besides the presents of course but I think it is the most important part of the day. And it is also the best part of the day unless you are the one doing the cooking then I can only imagine it can be quite stressful. I mean, its a lot of pressure to cook for a bunch of people on Christmas Day because the food is what Christmas is all about. ;)

"No, Christmas is not just about dinner,,,,,, Its about family and presents and............ JESUS." - quoting my brother there, haha.

Christmas dinner for my family is just a feast and always so satisfying, we have everything and its definitely the best dinner throughout the entire year.

Christmas Dinner

Turkey

Ham

Stuffing

Gravy and Cranberry Sauce

Yorkshire Puddings

Roast Potatoes

Mashed Potatoes

Green Beans

Sprouts 

Parsnips

Carrots

Pigs In Blankets

Mince Pies

Christmas Puddings

Trifles

After Eight Mints

I told you Christmas dinner was a feast...... Yes, if you are wondering, I actually do have all of the above for Christmas dinner. I don't actually know if everyone else's families have this much food at Christmas but its because my family is just massive and we have about 12 people making the actual Christmas dinner. And I am the one who just kind of stands around pretending to help and sampling all the food. After this blogpost, I cannot wait for Christmas dinner tomorrow and I hope you feel that way too.

Well, that concludes the end of Countdown2Christmas, I cannot believe it is done. I am not going to lie, it has been a challenge to blog everyday for Countdown2Christmas and I would like to point out that I did think of all these titles to blog about myself. 

So there you go, it has been 24 days of C2C and 24 blogposts all relating to Christmas and Christmas festivities. I hope you have had just as much fun as I have during this Countdown2Christmas series and I have had the best time doing this.

This is not only the last blogpost for Countdown2Christmas 2013 but it will also be the last blogpost for the year. After this I will be returning home and then going on a short family holiday and I will be back in 2014 for a whole new year of blogging. I wish each and every one of you a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year. I hope you have an amazing Christmas Day tomorrow and I hope you are able to make the best out of it no matter where you are, what you are doing and who you will be together with. Christmas only comes around once a year and I hope we all take time to be thankful and appreciate those around us and think about the people in need and be grateful that we are all blessed in one way or another.

I also would like to wish you all the best of luck for the coming year and hopefully 2014 will be a good year if not better than 2013. Don't forget to look back on this year and be proud of all your achievements and learn from your mistakes. Its a new year, a new beginning, don't hold on to the past but look forward to the new year. Who knows what will happen in 2014. 

Please do check out all my social networking sites and if you do not know already, I do have a new Instagram account so please check that out as well, I will leave all the links below. Do comment below if you would like me to blog about anything in particular for the coming year. I would like to thank you if you have been reading up on this Countdown2Christmas series, it really does mean the world to me and I do really appreciate it even if you have read just one post. If you would like to read my past C2C posts, I will leave the link to that below as well. 

This has been Countdown2Christmas 2013 everyone! And maybe I will continue Countdown2Christmas in 2014 as well, who knows, right? Once again, I really do hope you have enjoyed it.

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year everyone, xx

Twitter: @jessieashleyyy

Instagram: @fashion_jessie

Email: jessicashleyyy@gmail.com

Countdown2Christmas started here.

C2C - Shedding Christmas Calories

Hi everybody!
Now during this Christmas season, I am sure that almost all of us have been stuffing our faces and especially on Christmas day where there is just so much food and how can anybody resist Christmas puddings. Just blogging about them is making my mouth water and it is getting me really excited for Christmas dinner.

After Christmas I personally like to go on a "cleanse" I guess you would say because for me, it has just been a whole month of chocolate goodies and puddings and mince pies and Christmas snacks and it does kind of get to a point where it is a little too much. To be fully honest with you, I do enjoy treating myself to all of these goodies and I really do not mind having these everyday of December. However, I do make it a point to be slightly cautious of my diet and every once in a while I will go on a cleanse only because I think that it makes me feel better and its really nice to know that my body has removed all of the toxins and everything.

The best way to lose the Christmas calories is definitely cardio! Going for a run 20-30 minutes, four days a week is all it takes. This sounds so simple but I am not going to lie, it is not that straight forward. Somedays it can seem next to impossible to get yourself up and go for a run and other days, it is just that simple. The best way to do this is to set goals for yourself, never forget to make a plan to make sure you stay on track. It sounds really cliche but trust me, it works! Failing to plan is planning to fail. If you do enjoy working out and being active then the best plan is to maintain it which can be challenging on somedays but just always look at your goals and what you want to achieve. DO NOT EVER be discouraged in any way, shape or form. If working out is not within your comfort zone, my suggestion is that you start today. A month from now, you are going to look back and wish that you had started today. Make it a habit to go for a short run or a fast walk once a day and build it up with more challenging activities and other forms of workout. Also, bring a friend along to keep you company and get you going to make workouts more enjoyable.

Do not forget to reward yourself. After adhering to your exercise plan, treat yourself to maybe a nice dinner or a massage, a new pair of shoes or a spa day. It is not a bad thing to have a rest day but make sure you will go back to the workout routines after that.

The most important thing is to eat healthy. You don't have to go on an extreme diet straight after the holiday season. I never particularly believe that a diet is the answer to shedding those calories but that is only my opinion. Watch what you eat. Lots of fibre and lots of fruits and veggies is the way to go. Stay away from the fast food, the cookies and puddings. I understand that this can be hard but again, think about your goals and stay focused on them. Have plenty of lean protein like chicken and turkey breasts, these proteins will keep you full for longer. Drink water! This is an absolute MUST. Swap water for any sugary beverages and alcohol. Never forget to eat breakfast every single day, when they say that breakfast is the most important meal of the day, they are right because it is. Have something delicious and healthy that will keep you going like a banana, some porridge or some eggs. Preferably something with loads of fibre and protein. Also, fit in some healthy and light snacks throughout the day like some berries or fruit with yogurt.

The best way to ensure success is to make realistic goals and keep to them. You can do it if you put your mind to it. Its mind over matter so never go into a workout session thinking "I'm too tired, I'm too weak, I can't". I am not going to lie, it might be difficult on some days but do not stop. You are a better and healthier version of yourself everyday so don't let anything or anyone bring you down. You can and you will. And that is all that you have to believe. You are doing this for yourself and for a better future. To lose the calories, its not so much about getting thin but getting fit.

I think the most important thing is to push yourself and challenge your body but there is a difference between going the extra mile and overdoing it. You can start slow an build it up. Remember, its not a race because the only person you will be competing with is yourself. I believe in you and I hope you will achieve your goals. And, don't feel like you have to eat less at the Christmas table this Wednesday, you can eat as much as you want to and start your workout plans the next day. 2 more days left till Christmas everyone !!!!!!

Merry Christmas, xx

Twitter: @jessieashleyyy
Instagram: @fashion_jessie
Email: jessicashleyyy@gmail.com

C2C - Giving Back Christmas

Hi everybody!
I am sure by now if you read my previous blogposts you will know, I am one who absolutely loves Christmas with all my heart. It is my favourite holiday and my favourite time of the year.
I always feel so lucky to be able to have an amazing Christmas every year and I never want to take it for granted. That is why I think it is always so important to give back especially during this time of the year.
I believe that nobody should be alone and hungry during Christmas time, it is a time of pure joy and happiness and I think it is very important that we try to help the less fortunate.

I just thought that it would be quite nice to share with you how you can give back this Christmas.

1. Visit homeless shelters to see those who are suffering, a small chat about the weather can make their day and they will be very thankful. If you can, it would be great to maybe bring along some blankets or scarfs and hats. Anything to help them keep warm through these cold months.
2. Some churches do have programmes where gifts and stockings are sent to the brave men and women currently serving in the army.
3. There are organisations that sends out care packages filled with basic needs and personalised gifts to children all around the world. Kids love Christmas and through all the difficulty, they deserve to feel special at least on Christmas.
4. Online donations are the simplest form of giving back. They are extremely convenient and if you are very busy, this is the perfect way for you to help others this festive season.
5. If you are an animal lover, do visit the animal shelter when you get the chance. Animals do need to be loved and cared for during Christmas time as well. Some extra animal food and maybe a few blankets never hurt if you are able.
6. Children's hospitals and nursing homes can be quite emotional to visit during this time of the year especially but a short visit along with a few small presents will definitely make their Christmas ten times better and more memorable. They deserve to know that someone out there is looking out for them and it really does not take much to put a smile on their faces.
7. Volunteer at your local soup kitchen because it can be great bonding time for you and your family/friends and at the same time, you will be helping those suffering in the cold. Come this time of the year, it is harder for them to find a warm meal and they really do appreciate this.
8. Doing something simple like baking some Christmas cookies or bringing some treats to the public service workers is also another really sweet and nice thing to do this festive season. These men and women usually do not make a lot of money and they are always swamped with loads of work to do. This is such a simple and easy way to show appreciation for them and their hard work.
9. Donate some food or money or even some of your time to the local food bank. Very often, food banks do run low on resources or man labour at this time of the year. They really do a lot for those in need and they deserve to have support and help. Just a few hours out of your day is all that is needed.
10. Donate to the cause of your choice. It could act as a Christmas gift and a gift of appreciation for all the hard work that they put in all year round to help the community.

It really does not take much to give back. It is so important to make sure that everyone does have somewhat of a great Christmas through all the hard times. You obviously do not have to do these things if you do not wish to but I just think that it is important for us to make sure we understand that there are those less fortunate than us out there who are having very hard times and we should all feel so blessed and lucky, and at the same time lend a helping hand to those in need.

Do feel free to comment below sharing other ideas to give back or if you are doing anything to give back this Christmas, I would really love to know about it. I also would like to let all of you know that I do have a new Instagram account so please do check that out as well. And also, not forgetting, 3 more days to Christmas everyone !!!!

Merry Christmas, xx

Twitter: @jessieashleyyy

Instagram: @fashion_jessie

Email: jessicashleyyy@gmail.com

C2C - Christmas Day Outfit Ideas

Hi everybody!
So with only 4 days to Christmas, I thought it would be a good idea to look at some outfit ideas to prepare ourselves for our ootd on the big day.
Now, I completely understand if it is still too early to think about this because if you are like me, we usually pick our outfits on Christmas Day itself if not Christmas Eve.

Girly and Dressy

• Pastel pink dress
• Black and white patterned blazer
• Champagne pink stroppy heels
• Black clutch
• Silver earrings
• Baby punk nails

• Shimmey silver/bronze top
• Dark blue skinny jeans
• Cream blazer
• Silver/greyish heels
• Light bronze clutch

• White long sleeved shirt
• Black skater skirt
• Black wedged dolly shoes
• Baby pink clutch
• Gold ribbon stud earrings

• Cream top
• Burgundy skater skirt
• Brown skinny belt
• Black ankle boots
• Brownish snood
• Army brown jacket 

• Black lace bodysuit
• Bright red skirt
• Heeled dolly shoes

• Shimmery pink and black flawy strapless dress
• Black heels
• Silvery pink earrings
• Black clutch
• Bright red lip 

• Red dress
• Skinny gold belt
• Black wedges
• Black clutch
• Black coat
• Gold ribbon headband
• Charm bracelet
• Gold nails 

• Dark red strapless dress
• Black heels
• Black handbag
• Black coat with gold buttons
• Black and gold chunky ring

• Cream white dress
• Grey infinity scarf
• Burgundy cardigan
• Brown flats

• White peplum top
• Bright red trousers
• Cream white heels
• White and gold studded clutch
• Red statement necklace
• Bright red lip

• Red peplum top
• Black leather trousers
• Black stroppy heels
• Grey bow ring

• Cream oversized jumper
• Christmassy leggings
• Burnt red snood
• Brown fold over boots
• Gold bow earrings

• Christmas jumper
• Black skinny jeans
• Black long boots
• Black cross body bag
• Bright red snood

• Over-the-shoulder red Christmas jumper
• Black leggings
• Converse sneakers
• Black beanie
• Pearl stud earrings

• White and green holy Christmas jumper
• Green skater skirt
• Red stockings
• Green flats
• Gold bangle bracelets
• Gingerbread man earrings
• Cream handbag

• Cream jumper
• Dark red skinny trousers
• Brown combat boots
• Gold watch
• Gold necklace

I do hope that this has given you some outfit ideas for Christmas day, I have written a blogpost on Christmas Party Outfit Ideas and I will link that down below so please do check it out if you get the chance. Don't forget to comment below sharing your Christmas outfits and the countdown is now at 4 days left everyone !!!!!

Also, I would just like to point out that I now have a new Instagram account so please do check that out and follow while you are at it! It would mean so much to me :)

Merry Christmas, xx

Twitter: @jessieashleyyy

Instagram @fashion_jessie

Email: jessicashleyyy@gmail.com

Check out my Christmas Party Outfit Ideas here.

C2C - Christmas Memories

Hi everybody!
I grew up absolutely loving Christmas and after 23 years, that has not changed the slightest bit. I always have the best times at Christmas and I thought it would be really nice to share that with all of you.

I am the youngest daughter in my family. I have 2 brothers and a sister. I would say we are a fairly big family and although I do feel so fortunate to be able to have this, it also means that all of us have our own individual lives and it is hard to get the entire family around. Christmas is one of the very few times out of the entire year where my whole family goes back to my parents' house and we have an amazing time. I think this is why Christmas means so much to me as the years go by.

In 2008, one of my brothers moved across the country which meant that the only way I could see them and talk to them was through a computer screen. My brother was like my best friend and he still is, as sad as that may sound, it is true and he is still by far the best listener that I know of to this day. So you can just imagine how sad I was when I did not get to see him as often. Later that year, I finally saw him, face to face, on Christmas day. From then on, I started loving Christmas more and more each year.

When I was about 6 or 7, I remember Christmas morning was so magical for me. It was really early in the morning and the sun was just about to rise. I went to the bathroom and from there I could see where the Christmas tree was, downstairs, by the window. I saw someone under the Christmas tree. It was really early and even though I could still walk, I was barely awake. I didn't think that it would be Father Christmas paying us a visit but when I went back to my bedroom, I was convinced that it was him. Later that morning, when we went down to open our Christmas presents, I told my family that I saw Father Christmas put these presents under the tree. I remember my siblings having the biggest laugh about it but I told myself it was true. Now that I have grown up, I managed to make myself believe that it was just my father but that was the most magical Christmas I can remember.

I would really love to know about your Christmas memories so please feel free to comment below sharing them or reach me at any other of my social media sites. Oh my goodness I cannot believe this, 5 more days everyone, 5 MORE DAYS!

Merry Christmas, xx

Twitter: @jessieashleyyy
Instagram: @fashionjessieee
Email: jessicashleyyy@gmail.com

C2C - Christmas Icons

Hi everybody!
So today's post is somewhat of a light one. It is going to be about iconic Christmas symbols. I just thought that it would be quite nice to go through some Christmas icons just to make sure that we do not get swept away by the materialistic side of the season, stressing about Christmas presents and going on night outs.

Santa Claus

Reindeers

Christmas Trees

Snowman

Gingerbread Man

Gingerbread House

Santa Hats

Candy Canes

Bells

Wreaths

Pine Cones

Holly

I think it is always so important to remind ourselves and appreciate Christmas icons. After all, Christmas only comes by once a year so we should all make the best of it and take time to show our love for the Christmas icons around us currently.

6 more days!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Merry Christmas, xx

Twitter: @jessieashleyyy
Instagram: @fashionjessieee
Email: jessicashleyyy@gmsil.com