As I enter the final year of my 30s, I thought I s As I enter the final year of my 30s, I thought I share with you some pictures of mine at 9 months, 9 years, 19 years, 29 years  to today 39 years old of age. Looking back at each decade, I feel both ‘older’ and ‘younger’, I see the change in my features, the change in my way of life, the change in my personality and the experience itched on my face. I am grateful for the life I have lived thus far and excited for the life I am yet to live. 
••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••

2026 - 39, (Home, England), I am ready for this final year before my 40s but also ready for this next decade. 
2016 - 29, (Oslo, Norway), this decade was about self discovery and building the life I dreamt about. The life that I am super proud of and truly grateful to be living. This decade, I built my financial life and in later years choose to heal from the trauma gained in the last decade and now I feel well equipped for the future. 
2006 - 19, (Glasgow, Scotland), I thought I was grown (look at the cheekbones 🤣🤣) and ready for the world, chiiiild was I wrong, let’s just say, I am still resolving the trauma the decade brought me but I am grateful because I met my best friends and made decisions for the future I wanted to have. (Spoiler alert - I did better than I dreamed). 
1996 - 9, (Home, Zambia) this was my birthday but my little sister insisted she had to be the one in the middle. The only way we knew whose birthday it was, was by standing in the middle but this year I remember baby sister crying her eyes out and refusing 🤨
1988 - 9 months, (Chililabombwe, Zambia) although my mother looks tired and traumatised😟, I know I was loved and happy. 
#happybirthday #happybirthday❤️ #newera #39
Attended #ascotraces for the second year running a Attended #ascotraces for the second year running and I am glad to have experienced the ‘Village enclosure’ this year, whilst I loved ‘Windsor enclosure’ last year, it’s not for me. Next year, I want Queen Anne’s enclosure. 💕 #girlsdayout #girlslikeus #ascotfashion
How I missed you my love 🥰🥰🥰 #hertripsabroad #bla How I missed you my love 🥰🥰🥰

#hertripsabroad #blackgirlstraveltoo #maldives #neverstopexploring #welltravelled
Tried being a #touristforaday and we chose #london Tried being a #touristforaday and we chose #london because why not. My feet still hurt from the thought of how much walking we did, the fact that we walked from #bigben to #buckinghampalace is still fresh on my mind. 

#neverstopexploring
🖤🖤MARCH PHOTO/VIDEO DUMP🖤🖤 So much happened and 🖤🖤MARCH PHOTO/VIDEO DUMP🖤🖤 

So much happened and yet I can’t find the words.
It has been an amazing week here, definitely recom It has been an amazing week here, definitely recommend @iberostar in Agadir. 
#neverstopexploring #wanderlust #welltravelled #lifeofadventure #hertripsabroad
I spent a week in #dohaqatar and had the most rela I spent a week in #dohaqatar and had the most relaxing and fulfilling time of my life. Sometimes taking it slow and living in the moment is what the soul needs. 🥰🥰🥰
:
:
:
:
:
 #hertripsabroad #solotravel #solotravelingisfun 
#blackgirlstraveltoo
I had such an amazing week in Doha, Qatar after no I had such an amazing week in Doha, Qatar after not visiting for almost 8years. 📍

#qatar #doha #qatarphotoinstagram  #solo travel #travelbug bestvacations igtravel travelpic travelblog beautifuldestinations tlpicks instatravel roamtheplanet traveldeeper travelgram travelinspo wanderlust instapassport exploretheworld travelpics travelmore passionpassport travelawesome lonelyplanet travelblogger travelphotography traveltheworld worldtraveler
Happy New Year, happy 2026 #firstpicture of the ye Happy New Year, happy 2026 #firstpicture of the year.
  • Home
  • About
  • Lifestyle
    • Beauty
    • Fashion
    • Money
  • Goals
  • Travel
    • Africa
    • Americas
    • Asia
    • Europe
    • United Kingdom
  • Work with Me
  • Home
  • About
  • Lifestyle
    • Beauty
    • Fashion
    • Money
  • Goals
  • Travel
    • Africa
    • Americas
    • Asia
    • Europe
    • United Kingdom
  • Work with Me

A July Dreamer

A Travel & Lifestyle Blog

Christmas · December 3, 2015

What I want for Christmas 

I have seen too many posts in the last few days sharing their gift guides for families and friends, from babies to adults, from pet gift guides to homeware ideas. I thought this year I was going to be very selfish and think about what I want for Christmas.

what i want for christmas

I have not purchased a single gift for myself or any of my family and friends. Some may find this strange but when I was growing up in Zambia we didn’t really focus on presents, for us just being alive was a present enough for the families and friends. Fast forward 15 years later and in UK it’s all about ‘what am I getting this year‘. There is nothing wrong with giving families and friends gifts but sometimes I think we go overboard and forget the true reason for the festive period.

With that being said, I still want to give me some presents for this Christmas. It has been a long year, it has been a year of accomplishments and achievements and little to no disappointments. Last year when I thought the year and world was against me I was greeted with a very fabulous 2015.

What I want for Christmas

1. Winter holiday – I want to go on one more trip abroad before the year ends. Next year I intend to travel twice a month either abroad or home ground.

2. Curling wand – I recently treated myself to the day at the salon and had my hair done. But since I am bad at maintaining my weave I thought this time I will make an effort and start getting some tools to help me.

3. New wardrobe – I am sure every girl wants this but I want to donate all that I no longer use or can’t fit in anymore and start afresh. It’s a big job to declutter my old wardrobe but it needed to be done

4. Flat tummy – some of us have been blessed with extra padding around the mid section. This Christmas I want a flat tummy so I can consume as much as I want and gain my current mid section.

5. Expensive jewellery – every woman has an item of luxury (expensive) that they own. I have none, the most expensive thing I own apart from my home furnishings is my chromebook.

6. Health – this one is the most important one not only for me but for my family too. This is the one gift I hope to continue receiving every day. Above have shown I too can be greedy and superficial but for my family’s health and mine I am not taking no chances nor prisoners.

This is what I want for Christmas, what is your wish?

signature

*This is NOT a sponsored post*

In: Christmas

You’ll Also Love

Creative-Ideas-For-Office-Christmas-PartiesJingle and Mingle: Creative Ideas For Office Christmas Parties
the ultimate family guide{ Christmas 2017 #giftideas} The Ultimate Family Guide 
personalised gifts{ Christmas 2017 #giftideas} Personalised Gifts 

Comments

  1. Julie says

    December 8, 2015 at 4:49 am

    Most things that I want can’t be bought from a store… I think I’ll just say that I’d love to be able to travel, too. That’s a great wishlist item.

    Reply
    • Miranda says

      December 8, 2015 at 5:08 am

      Thank you Julie

  2. Notorious Spinks says

    December 8, 2015 at 3:05 am

    I think we all want a flat tummy. LOL. I know that if you ask Santa and you’ve made it to the good list, he’ll be sure to deliver. LOL! But seriously, I can’t wait to see your posts from your travels.

    Reply
    • Miranda says

      December 8, 2015 at 5:09 am

      Hahaha, thanks hun. Not sure I have been entirely good but will see what the big man delivers

  3. Chantal says

    December 8, 2015 at 1:24 am

    Ok did you read my mind when you wrote this? I am defiantly on the same page as you this holiday season! I am in dire need of brand new clothes.

    Reply
    • Miranda says

      December 8, 2015 at 5:10 am

      Hahaha, well I am glad we’re in sync and hope you get some nice clothes

  4. Adriana says

    December 6, 2015 at 6:32 pm

    I love your list!! Curling wands are a must, I have a bunch of different sized ones and they are life savers!

    Reply
  5. HilLesha says

    December 6, 2015 at 1:09 am

    I wouldn’t mind waking up on Christmas morning with a flat tummy! ~lol~ Joking aside, I honestly never really want anything for Christmas. 🙂

    Reply
  6. Stephanie of The TipToe Fairy says

    December 5, 2015 at 9:51 am

    I know the feeling. Every time the holidays come around, I hate the constant buy buy buy mentality. I have been trying to talk my kids into skipping presents and just going on a vacation together. I’d love to have a flat tummy. I don’t think I’ve ever had one in my entire life, lol.

    Reply
  7. Christie says

    December 4, 2015 at 5:42 pm

    Curling wands are an amazing invention! I love changing up my hair with one. Fun Christmas wish list 🙂

    Reply
    • Miranda says

      December 5, 2015 at 8:23 am

      I too I am in love with them as of late, managed to scoop one up from Argos.

  8. coolchillmom says

    December 4, 2015 at 4:16 pm

    I love your wish list!! You had me smiling at that weight gain strategy . I hope you get that winter holiday soon

    Reply
    • Miranda says

      December 5, 2015 at 8:24 am

      Hahaha thanks, I just want space for christmas food

  9. Jade Priscilla says

    December 4, 2015 at 1:37 pm

    Ahh, I am so glad I’m not the only one who thinks to lose the tum to gain it again for Christmas! haha Look forward to seeing where you get to go before the year is out, I love travelling 🙂 x

    Reply
    • Miranda says

      December 5, 2015 at 8:25 am

      Hahaha, thanks. I too love travelling

  10. Miles L. says

    December 4, 2015 at 7:44 am

    This is a great wish list. I hope you’ll have all of them. Have a wonderful holiday!

    Reply
    • Miranda says

      December 5, 2015 at 8:29 am

      Thanks, not sure about the flat tummy but thanks anyway

  11. thecrunchymommy says

    December 4, 2015 at 2:32 am

    Love your wish list, I could really use 1. for Christmas too but I’m grateful for 6.

    Reply
    • Miranda says

      December 5, 2015 at 8:33 am

      Thanks, we should all aim for 6

  12. Sophie O'Reilly says

    December 4, 2015 at 1:19 am

    I really want a curling wand too! Think I may go for a pink one as it’s my favourite colour.

    Reply
    • Miranda says

      December 5, 2015 at 8:39 am

      I wanted one and I managed to get one, hope you get the pink one too

  13. alexandria says

    December 4, 2015 at 1:17 am

    Especially as a mom, we all forget about ourselves a little bit. There is nothing wrong with wanting a little somethin’. I got myself a nice Michael Kors bag from my huz. Lol.

    Reply
    • Miranda says

      December 5, 2015 at 9:08 am

      You mums definitely deserve some me time and treats this christmas. I want an MK bag too

  14. Rebecca Spooner says

    December 3, 2015 at 11:29 pm

    Oh, I’ve been wanting to try a curling wand!

    Reply
  15. Ana De- Jesus says

    December 3, 2015 at 11:10 pm

    I want a new wardrobe too but I have far too many clothes already. Expensive jewellery sounds good!

    Reply
  16. Becky, Cuddle Fairy says

    December 3, 2015 at 10:04 pm

    I’d love everything on your list! Flat tummy – yes please! Jewellery – definitely! Family’s health – the best one of all! This was a lovely read hun x

    Reply
  17. Liz Mays says

    December 3, 2015 at 9:53 pm

    I would really like a little vacation this winter too. It would be nice to fit in a little two day trip before the holidays.

    Reply
  18. Mudpie Fridays says

    December 3, 2015 at 9:18 pm

    I really need to declutter my wardrobe too!! I hadnt thought about doing it for Christmas and giving it away, thank your the inspiration. I hope you have a great Christmas and get everything on your wish list x

    Reply
  19. Ali says

    December 3, 2015 at 8:23 pm

    What a lovely and not too greedy wish list! I’m with you on the flat tummy but only I can achieve that one. Hope your 2016 is just as fabulous x

    Reply
  20. Vera Sweeney says

    December 3, 2015 at 7:45 pm

    I think my wish list is pretty close to yours!!! I can’t believe its time for the holidays already again!

    Reply
  21. Heather says

    December 3, 2015 at 7:32 pm

    I can totally relate to this, I think its why I like Thansgiving more because we come together, eat a great meal, spend time with one another and its not about the gifts. My husband is a big gift giver and likes to be over the top with it, which can make me uncomfortable. Sometimes its the simpler things that matter. I too want a flat tummy for Christmas. 😉

    Reply
  22. Travel Blogger says

    December 3, 2015 at 5:05 pm

    I am dying to get a curling wand! My hairdresser also used one, and I have been desperate to get one. I told my husband that is all I want for Christmas.

    Reply
  23. Lisa (Travel Loving Family) says

    December 3, 2015 at 5:05 pm

    Health and happiness for my family and I too please Santa! Lovely post, I hope you get everything you want:)

    Reply
  24. Phyllis says

    December 3, 2015 at 3:20 pm

    I’ll take the flat tummy!! Please and thank you.

    Reply
  25. Rachel says

    December 3, 2015 at 2:38 pm

    I would quite like a flat tummy, I have probably left it a bit late x

    Reply
  26. Jenn @ EngineerMommy says

    December 3, 2015 at 2:08 pm

    I can relate to a lot of the items on your list. I think good health for me and my family is so important! It’s something that’s so precious!

    Reply
  27. Erica Brooks says

    December 3, 2015 at 12:33 pm

    Love your list. I’d love a flat tummy too. I hope you get what’s on your wish list. Have a happy holiday 😀

    Reply
  28. Vikki Holness says

    December 3, 2015 at 9:41 am

    After two babies, i think a flat tummy is out of the question for me but a girl can dream right? I haven’t asked for anything this year, i have everything i need and want already xx

    Reply
    • Miranda says

      December 3, 2015 at 10:06 am

      A girl can dream indeed and love that you have everything you want and need

  29. Joanna says

    December 3, 2015 at 8:37 am

    If only a flat belly was achievable before Christmas for me. However I have my health and my little boy so am very lucky indeed.

    Reply
    • Miranda says

      December 3, 2015 at 10:08 am

      You’re more than lucky hun

  30. Regan says

    December 3, 2015 at 8:17 am

    Haha! I need to get it on the flat tummy. I wonder where I can get one of those 😉

    Reply
    • Miranda says

      December 3, 2015 at 10:18 am

      I am still looking hun, once I do I will share lol

  31. Maureen says

    December 3, 2015 at 8:06 am

    I second the flat belly one! 😀
    Love your wish list for Christmas. I wish to put an end to my long distance relationship next year as my fiance and I are preparing to make our dream come true to be married and live together.
    Wishing you all your wishes come true.

    Reply
    • Miranda says

      December 3, 2015 at 10:19 am

      I wish you the best for next year hun, that wedding needs to happen asap and your dreams need to come true too.

Leave a ReplyCancel reply

Next Post >

Being Insecure

About Me
I'm Miranda. Travel-Addict. Blogger. Moscato Addict. Weekend Escapist. Homebody. Countryside dweller residng in Oxfordshire.

Search the archives

My 5 Year Plan to become a millionaire

https://youtu.be/rzpyQrO3BLY

Subscribe to Blog via Email

Enter your email address to subscribe to this blog and receive notifications of new posts by email.

The Categories

The Archives

  • Home
  • About
  • Privacy Policy

Copyright © 2026 A July Dreamer · Theme by 17th Avenue

This website uses cookies to improve your experience. We'll assume you're ok with this, but you can opt-out if you wish. Cookie settingsACCEPT
Privacy & Cookies Policy

Privacy Overview

This website uses cookies to improve your experience while you navigate through the website. Out of these cookies, the cookies that are categorized as necessary are stored on your browser as they are as essential for the working of basic functionalities of the website. We also use third-party cookies that help us analyze and understand how you use this website. These cookies will be stored in your browser only with your consent. You also have the option to opt-out of these cookies. But opting out of some of these cookies may have an effect on your browsing experience.
Necessary
Always Enabled
Necessary cookies are absolutely essential for the website to function properly. This category only includes cookies that ensures basic functionalities and security features of the website. These cookies do not store any personal information.
SAVE & ACCEPT

Loading Comments...