12 Days of Christmas

Day 7: Stocking Stuffers

As I said before, I love waking up to the sight of a packed stocking stuffed with presents of all shapes and sizes. Guaranteed, a couple will be my standard yearly delivery of socks (thanks, Santa) and a Terry's Chocolate Orange or two (that's breakfast sorted). But just occasionally, Mum and Dad...I mean, Santa...comes up trumps and there's something a bit special in there.

I wouldn't say no to one of these...

1. Snowman Shea Duo from The Body Shop - $24.95

2. Watch from The Horse - $129

3. Glitter Puff Nail Art - $11.43

4. Kenzo Patterned Scarf from Far Fetched - $490

5. Lindt Maxi Ball - price varies

Last Weekend It Was

...my birthday.

Eurgh. I'm getting old. Well, 24. I left the bright lights of the capital city and retired home to Cheshire and a spot of country air for my birthday last weekend to spend some quality time with the family. My sister swung by from Cardiff so the 4 of us were together which is a rare occasion. The sister had tempted me home with the promise of a massage pamper session and Afternoon Tea - quite simply, two of my favourite things.

Both had been booked on my behalf at the Grosvenor Pulford Hotel near Chester - a luxury 4 star hotel and spa. What I liked about it was the cosy feel to the hotel. None of this fancy, swanky nonsense. Just a comfortable, home-grown cottage feel throughout which is really welcoming.

First of all, I was treated to a 30 minute back, neck and shoulder massage at the Spa by Kasia. I have been for various massages before and never been asked how I would like the pressure and often find it a little too rough. However, we were asked to fill in forms beforehand dictating exactly how we would like our massage and I opted for 'relaxing' in order to make sure it was nice and light. 

I was led into an underground room with all the usual treasures - dim lighting, dripping water fountains, candles and incense. The massage was so good -I could barely believe when my 30 minutes was up and panicked slightly because I wanted nothing more than to lay there all day.

I then joined my family in the Ciros Braserie for Afternoon Tea - the cosy atmosphere was repeated here, with a light conservatory-style room surrounded with exotic plants. We enjoyed a selection of sandwiches, pastries and cakes for 4 people with unlimited pots of tea and coffee. I wasn't sure I'd enjoy the sandwich selection but the ham and mustard in particular was very tasty (although I have still never quite grasped the concept of cucumber sandwiches...)

Overall, a great start to my birthday weekend. Thanks, sister.

30 minute back, neck and shoulder massage at Spa by Kasia - £40

Afternoon Tea for Two - £24.95

This Morning I Was

...relaxing.

I was lucky enough to be treated to an Indian Head Massage at Urban Retreat Spa in Harrods in Knightsbridge. The atmosphere was immediately relaxing and a world away from the torrential downpour and manic crowds outside. Greeted at the Check In desk, the experience was impeccable from start to finish - wonderfully polite and professional staff and the décor is 5*.

Urban Retreat, Harrods

The massage itself was just what I needed and the perfect way to kick start a day off work. I can honestly say I didn't want it to end. The heated pad on the bed added an extra special touch and made the whole experience more relaxing. 

Urban Retreat Indian Head Massage - £35 for 25 minutes. Bliss. 

Harrods