I don't usually do these styles of posts, but I've found myself watching so many 'What I Got' videos on youtube, and reading so many blog posts. My birthday falls right before the Christmas countdown begins. While I love having adding a Christmas sparkle to my birthday, it often leaves my family wondering what to get me for a birthday and Christmas less than a month apart.

Today marks the official start of the Christmas countdown. Mine officially began back in September when we hit the 100 day mark, Christmas tunes have been playing for months and I'm onto my 10th re-watch of The Santa Clause. Now that December has hit, there can be no more cries of 'its too early for Christmas'.

Today also marks the start of Blogmas. I've taken part in Blogmas for the last two years, with more success in last year's attempt. I've decided to try it again this year, and while I'll still have classes till the 15th this year (sigh) I'll be doing my best to get things written and published on time. One thing I enjoyed from last year was creating gift guides and wish lists, and I thought I'd go along with that theme again this year, starting it off with a What I Got For My Birthday which can also act as somewhat of a gift guide and inspiration for those of you who are still struggling to find that perfect gift.

Before I start, I want to say thank you for all these wonderful gifts. This year I celebrated my birthday in Durham with my new flat mates and friends, as well as a wee visit from my sister. It was a lovely and chill day - exactly what I wanted for my 22nd. My parents sent down lots of little goodies to make my day that little bit more special, and I'm so appreciative of them all.





I've had my converse for years now, and a month ago they decided to give up on me. They've seen me through countless trips and adventures, turning from their bright white to a dull yellow colour. So it was about time that my trusty converse were replaced. 



Did you know that Bill's restaurant is actually owned by an Australian family man and chef? I only just found this out, and instantly lusted after his cook books. Since I love Italy (have you seen my adventures in Italy? Or the fact last years birthday was Italian theme?) the obvious choice was an Italian cookbook, and I can't wait to make my first dish. 





I love a cute little mug, and have had my eye on this one for a while. I love mugs with beautiful designs on it, and this one is a perfect size for a cheeky hot chocolate (or two). This could be a great present, as you can select the star sign to make it personal. 



As a self confessed hot chocolate addict, I love presents like this. I have at least a hot chocolate a day, especially as the days get colder and the snow starts to fall. This present is perfect for me as its a great treat for days when I want something a bit fancier and different. And I'm saving the bites for a night when I can snuggle with a Christmas movie, have a hot chocolate and delve into the packet. 



This is a bumper of a present. It's a combo present from both my parents and my grandparents, and serves as both my birthday and Christmas presents, but I got it at my birthday so that I could use it throughout December too. Its a dream of a camera, and I've been lusting after it for a while now. I can't wait to use it to get some stunning images for this blog and Instagram. 



Whenever I see people wearing coats like this, I can't help but think how cosy they look, so I was super excited to get one for myself. I think that the fur makes it extra warm - perfect for this time of year when the temperature is dropping. It'll go perfectly with jeans and boats, and can be worn each day to uni.

I hope that these gifts give you some inspiration if you're looking for gifts for your friend or sister. I am in love with everything that I got, and can't wait to use them all.

Be sure to follow me on twitter, Facebook and Instagram to stay updated with all my blooms posts. I've been quiet on the blog front since I moved to Durham and settled into my masters, but am determined to give blogmas a good go.

Let me know if you're doing blogmas this year, I'd love to check out your posts too!