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Showing posts with label Lifestyle. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Lifestyle. Show all posts

Bristol Foodie Guide: 5 Best Places to Eat in 2026

Monday, September 15, 2025

 



Colourful balloons floating above Bristol’s Clifton Bridge during a summer festival.

(Photo credit: Yugo)

Bristol is one of the UK’s most exciting cities for food lovers, buzzing with culture, creativity, and some of the best restaurants in the South West. Whether you’re a local searching for a new favourite spot or a visitor discovering the city’s vibrant dining scene, there’s something to tempt every palate. From elegant eateries perfect for a special night out to affordable gems that won’t break the bank, Bristol offers a mix of flavours and experiences to suit every taste and budget.

To help you navigate this culinary landscape, I’ve put together a guide to the 5 best places to eat in Bristol in 2025, featuring a mix of must-try restaurants that truly showcase the city’s incredible foodie scene.

Inside Garden of Easton café in Bristol with colourful plants and greenery

 

The Garden of Easton 🌿 

Tucked away in the heart of Easton, The Garden of Easton is a buzzing jungle-style café that has become a go-to for plant-based food lovers in Bristol. The menu is fully vegan, offering everything from hearty brunch plates to colourful lunches and indulgent cakes. Expect dishes like loaded sandwiches, fresh salads, and seasonal specials, with mains approximately priced between £10–£14 and cakes around £3.50–£5.

The café has a relaxed, laid-back atmosphere, filled with greenery and a warm community vibe. While it’s more of a daytime spot for coffee, cake, or a casual lunch, they also serve dinners, making it a flexible choice if you want something low-key in the evening. It’s not the cheapest café in Bristol, but the food quality, friendly service, and unique setting make it well worth it.



Fresh Italian bolognese and creamy carbonara at Bosco Bristol.


Bosco Pizzeria 🍕

If you’re craving authentic Italian food in Bristol, Bosco Pizzeria is a must. They offer fantastic lunch deals (available 12–5pm) where you can enjoy two courses for £14 or three courses for £17, brilliant value considering the quality. Their pizzas are some of the best in the city. Two standouts are:
Funghi (£16.50) – topped with chestnut mushrooms, mascarpone, fior di latte mozzarella, thyme, parmesan, and a drizzle of truffle oil. Rich, earthy, and absolutely delicious.

Bosco  (£11.50)– a simple yet perfect combination of fior di latte mozzarella, tomato, grana padano, olive oil, and basil. Sometimes the classics really are the best.

Beyond pizza, you’ll find small plates, fresh pasta dishes, and classic Italian appetisers, all served in a warm, buzzing atmosphere. 

They’re based on White Ladies Road in Clifton, but if you’re up for a day out, you’ll also find a Bosco in Bath and Cheltenham. Don’t leave without trying their refreshing lemon sorbet, it’s the perfect way to end a meal.


Authentic Middle Eastern dishes and mezze at Souk Kitchen, Bristol.


Souk Kitchen 🥙

Souk Kitchen is a must-visit spot for anyone exploring the best places to eat in Bristol in 2025. Based in Southville, just south of the river, this popular Bristol restaurant brings the vibrant flavours of the Middle East to the city with creative small plates and mezze, perfect for sharing! Expect colourful salads, spiced lamb and chicken dishes, falalfel and an array of dips that showcase bold and aromatic flavours. 

 Prices range from £5–£12 per plate, it’s an affordable mid-range choice, whether you’re stopping in for a quick lunch or settling in for a relaxed dinner.

To make it even better, Souk Kitchen often runs great-value lunch deals and features on First Table, meaning diners can enjoy up to 50% off and sample a wide variety of dishes without breaking the bank. 

Grilled fish dish at Gambas restaurant in Bristol

Gambas 🍷 

Nestled in Bristol’s vibrant Wapping Wharf, Gambas is a Spanish tapas bar that perfectly combines flavour-packed food with a lively, welcoming atmosphere. With outdoor seating, heaters, and cozy blankets for cooler months, it’s a top spot year-round. 

The menu features fresh seafood and high-quality small plates designed for sharing, with prices typically between £6 and £12 per dish. Larger plates like paella or grilled fish are around £14–£22, placing Gambas in the mid-range to slightly upscale category. Pair your meal with a glass from their curated wine list, starting at £5, and you’ve got one of the city’s best spots for Spanish cuisine. Gambas strikes the perfect balance between lively energy and relaxed comfort, making it a must-visit for anyone exploring Bristol’s foodie scene.


Turkish mixed grill served at Cappadocia restaurant in Bristol.

Cappadocia 🏜️ 

Cappadocia is one of the most popular Turkish restaurants in Bristol, bringing rich flavours and a bustling atmosphere to Baldwin Street. First opening in Bath in 2019, the family-run restaurant expanded to Bristol in 2023 and quickly became a city favourite. With colourful décor and a welcoming vibe, it’s the perfect spot for everything from date nights to group dinners.

Their bottomless brunch is a big draw: £39 per person for a starter, main, and unlimited beer, wine, or prosecco, or £49 to include cocktails and mocktails. Each sitting lasts two hours, making it ideal for a fun weekend outing. They also offer set menus for larger bookings, making it a great choice for celebrations.

For authentic Turkish food in Bristol with a stylish twist, Cappadocia is a must-visit, and if you’re in Bath, their other restaurant is just as popular.


Exterior of Garden of Easton café in Bristol, with plants lining the street in Easton

Top tips for Dining Out in Bristol 

Bristol’s restaurant scene is thriving, so a few insider tips can help you make the most of your foodie adventures. It’s a good idea to book ahead for popular spots, as restaurants like Bosco, Cappadocia, and Gambas can get busy, especially on weekends and evenings. Many places also offer lunch specials or First Table discounts, which are perfect for sampling multiple dishes at a lower cost. 

Planning for the season can make a big difference. Outdoor seating is a highlight at Gambas in the warmer months, while heaters and blankets keep you cosy in winter. If you’re dining out with friends or celebrating a big occasion, consider group-friendly options like Cappadocia’s bottomless brunch or mezze sharing at Souk Kitchen. 

Finally, don’t just stick to the city center: Bristol has amazing food tucked away in Easton, Southville, Bedminster, Clifton, and Wapping Wharf, so wander a little further to discover those hidden gems.

Grilled tomahawk steak served at Pasture restaurant in Clifton, Bristol

Honourable mentions

St Nick’s Market – St Nick’s is an eclectic hub of street food and independent vendors in the heart of Bristol, perfect for casual, budget-friendly dining. St Nick’s offers a variety of cuisines, from Eat a Pitta’s fresh falafel wraps (£5–£7) to Asian-inspired bowls (£6–£9) and seasonal small plates from other stalls. Perfect for a relaxed lunch with colleagues or a bite on the go.

Pasture – Pasture offers seasonal, locally sourced dishes in Redcliffe, making it a more upmarket dining experience for special occasions or a refined night out.

Saffron – Saffron brings rich Mediterranean cuisine to Clifton Village, offering bold, flavour-packed dishes made with high-quality ingredients. Saffron’s menu features fresh seafood, grilled meats, and vibrant vegetarian options, with mains generally priced between £15 and £25, making it a mid-range to slightly upscale dining option. It's an ideal spot to impress a friend visiting Bristol for the first time!

Two friends enjoying pastries and drinks outside in the sunshine at Wapping Wharf, Bristol.

Use this Bristol Food Guide 2025 to plan your next dining experience and discover new cuisines across the city. From brunch to dinner, these recommendations highlight some of the best places to eat in Bristol right now. So, grab a fork and start eating your way through the city. 

For even more affordable options, don't miss my earlier guide, Eating out in Bristol on a budget, packed with tips for wallet-friendly options. 





The Perfect Long Weekend in Málaga: A 3-Day Travel Guide

Monday, February 24, 2025

 



Málaga is the perfect city break; if you're looking for a sunny long weekend abroad. We visited in February for my 28th birthday and had a fun few days sampling some tasty mediterranean cuisine and practicing our Spanish with the locals (thank you 150-day streak on Duolingo!).

Keep reading to discover how to spend the perfect long weekend in Malaga with my 3-day travel guide.

Must-see Attractions in Málaga

Castillo de Gibralfaro

One of the most iconic landmarks in Málaga, the Castillo de Gibralfaro offers breathtaking panoramic views of the city, the Mediterranean Sea, and even the distant mountains. You can reach the castle by hiking up from the city center, which takes around 30–40 minutes, or, if you're short on time or prefer a more relaxed approach, you can take an Uber, like we did.

The entrance fee is €3.50 per person, and in my opinion, it's well worth it. 

Tip: Visit early in the morning to avoid crowds or head there at sunset for stunning photos with softer lighting. We went at 1pm, and while it was quite bright, I still managed to capture some great shots!

Sunset River Cruise


This was a nice idea in theory, I mean who wouldn't want to be on the water on their birthday? I envisioned enjoying the serene sounds of mother nature and embracing the fresh sea air. However, these boat trips tend to be super busy and not that relaxing! Cheesy chart music was playing throughout our boat ride and we had people next to us, talking loudly the whole time. 

We booked our boat trip, very last minute, an hour before which cost us £10 but usually prices are around £12 each. If you're looking for a more intimate or romantic river cruise, I would suggest hiring out a private boat, this will cost you around £45 per person for 1 hour. If I did this trip again, I would opt for this option!


Optional extras


If you’re a fan of art and culture, consider visiting the Museo Picasso! It’s open daily from 10am to 6pm, and tickets cost €13 - just be sure to book in advance. This is a great indoor activity, especially if the weather isn’t on your side. Málaga’s winter can be a bit unpredictable, so it’s always good to have a backup plan!

Day trips


If you're blessed with more time on your hands, you could consider doing a day trip from Malaga. Depending on your budget and your interests, you can choose from hiking the famous Caminito del Rey, exploring the monkey kingdom of Gibraltar, or hitting the beaches in Marbella. 


Best food spots in Málaga!

Mercado Central de Ataranzas 

A lively hub where Spanish culture meets culinary delight. This eclectic market showcases the rich flavours and traditions of Málaga, offering a unique experience for both locals and tourists. We enjoyed our late lunch at Medina Bar, where we enjoyed fritura variada (this dish consists of smaller seafood varieties such as shellfish, small fish, and crustaceans that are rolled in flour and fried in oil until crispy and golden). I highly recommend pairing it with a refreshing Sangria and sitting outside in the sun as you enjoy your meal.

In Málaga, you’ll discover an abundance of choice and variety, ensuring that even the pickiest eaters won’t go hungry!


Next Level Specialty Coffee

Breakfast of dreams! My acai bowl was a perfect blend of flavors and textures, topped with fresh bananas, juicy strawberries, sweet blueberries, creamy peanut butter, and crunchy granola chunks. There's a reason why this cafe has 4.8 stars on Google - the service was quick and the food was delicious. Whether you're stopping by for a quick bite or a leisurely meal, it definitely lives up to the hype!


Smash by Black Label

We stumbled upon Smash by Black Label while strolling through the heart of Málaga, and it turned out to be a hidden gem for burger lovers. If you're looking for a quick bite that doesn’t compromise on quality, Smash is the place to go! Their menu is packed with delicious smash burgers made with high-quality ingredients, juicy patties, and perfectly toasted buns. The atmosphere is casual and welcoming, making it a great spot to refuel during a day of exploring the city. 


I know what you’re thinking… this looks like a pretty rogue lunch, and honestly, I’d probably judge it too. But let me tell you, it was absolutely delicious! The prawns were incredibly fresh, bursting with flavour, and paired perfectly with a refreshing white sangria. It made for the perfect birthday lunch.

I wish I could remember the name of this spot, but all I know is that it was right in the heart of Málaga’s main restaurant area. We wandered in for a quick bite, and it turned out to be a fantastic little find. Sometimes the best meals are the ones you just stumble upon!


Rooftop drinks at Lolita Bar

On our last night, we visited Lolita bar for roof-top drinks, which certainly did not disappoint. With stunning views over the city, a relaxed atmosphere, and excellent service, it was the perfect spot to unwind. It wasn’t too crowded, making it even more enjoyable.

We aimed to catch the sunset at 7pm, but with the sun setting behind us, the view was mostly hidden, however; the scenery was still extraordinary. Cocktail and alcohol prices are similar to those in the UK, so if you're on a budget, a soft drink or cider (€4.40) is a more affordable option.

Old Town Málaga

Spend time strolling around Málaga's old town and marvel at the city's historic quarter. 

Here you will find:

Málaga Cathedral, also known as the Cathedral of the Incarnation, is one of the city's most iconic landmarks.

Built in the 16th century on the site of a former mosque, the cathedral showcases stunning Gothic architecture, featuring intricate stone carvings, ornate stained glass windows, and soaring arches.

Calle Larios, is home to the shopping district in Málaga. This area is home to fancy boutique shops along with high-street stores such as Mango, Stradivarius and H&M. 

Málaga Roman Theatre, if you're into history then you will love it here. Located at the foot of the Alcazaba, this ancient site dates back to the 1st century BC, making it one of the oldest monuments in the city.


Top Tips for a Perfect Long Weekend in Málaga

Malaga is an ideal destination for a quick weekend break in February, with guaranteed blue skies and sunshine during the day! We were blessed with temperatures of 16-20 degrees across the 3 days we spent in Malaga. However, I would still advise bringing a light jacket and jumper, as it can get quite cold during the evenings (around 9-11 degrees). 

I made the mistake of over-packing and taking way too many dresses and skirts that I barely wore. I ended up living in trousers and jeans instead, so keep this in mind!

Transportation

Uber and Bolt are the most commonly used ride-hailing services here. Of course, you can always grab a taxi, but like in most cities, they tend to charge higher fares!

We walked almost everywhere, so I can’t personally comment on the metro or buses in Málaga. However, we did take a bus in Granada, which conveniently accepted card payments. For the metro, most people purchase their tickets at the train stations, while bus tickets are bought directly from the driver. It’s always a good idea to carry some spare euros just in case.


Currency 


I didn’t exchange any euros before or during my trip, as card payments are widely accepted - even in small convenience stores. However, if you prefer to have some cash on hand, €50 should be more than enough for a long weekend. I personally use Monzo when traveling, as it lets me track my spending and avoid foreign transactions or cash withdrawal fees. 

We also explored the stunning city of Granada on this trip! We caught a 90-minute bus from Malaga coach station and enjoyed taking in the serene views. Be sure to check out my top tips and tricks for navigating this vibrant city here. 

Thank you for reading my blog! If you're planning a trip soon, I hope you've found these tips helpful. Be sure to check back for more posts about my travel adventures.





 











5 cosy self-care rituals for Winter

Monday, November 25, 2024



The transition from the summer to the crisper, colder months can be hard. Personally, I find this time of year particularly challenging. Perhaps, it's the shorter days or the drop in temperature but this can take some time to get used to. 

Over the years, I have cultivated some simple self-care rituals that have helped me to weather the storm of the seasonal changes. 

Now, I am partial to an expensive bath bomb and a cheeky takeaway every now and then, however, I am also a firm believer that real self-care, shouldn't cost you a penny. 

Keep reading to discover my top 5 cosy self-care rituals for Winter:

 1. Get outside

It's no secret that fresh air can do you the world of good. If you work in an office environment, like myself you'll know that hunching over a desk for 8 hours isn't ideal. Whilst the evenings are getting shorter and the sun is setting earlier, it can feel depressing finishing work at 5pm, and it's already pitch black outside. I would recommend going for a walk before you start work or during your lunch break.

Spending time outdoors can do wonders for your mood and mental well-being, helping you to feel refreshed and re energised. 

So, have a sift through Spotify for a good podcast and stomp away, the world is your oyster after all.

 2. Journal

Ah! My trusty journal, my friend and my foe. The one who has simply seen it all, the good, the bad and the ugly. 

There's something so soothing about putting pen to paper and word-dumping everything into my journal. From a self-reflective point of view, I enjoy taking stock of where I am in my life and re-visiting my journal in years to come, to marvel at the growth and challenges that I have endured.

Often, I just free-flow with my words and let the creativity pour out of me. Other times I utilise journal prompts like these to aid in my inspiration. It's important not to overwhelm yourself, don't expect to go from never journalling to daily journalling. Instead, view it as a fun activity that you can do whenever you have the time and energy. 

Intention is key here, so approach journaling with a sense of purpose rather than pressure. Let it be a space where you can authentically connect with yourself, free from judgment or expectation.


3. Move your body


It's all about finding those simple ways to bring movement into your daily life, from yoga stretches to full-body workouts. Trust me, you’ll never regret showing up for yourself, whether it’s on the mat, at the gym, or simply in your living room.

And yes, dancing in your kitchen to Barry Cant Swim at 10pm on a Monday, does count as moving your body!. 

Remember to start small, Rome wasn't built in a day. It's not about following strict workout routines, instead listen to your body and let it guide you. Some days, you might crave a high-intensity workout; on others a slow stretch or calming walk may be all you need. 



 4. Nourishing meals


Often, if we're feeling quite low the last thing we want to do is cook ourselves a meal, we can rely on conveniences such as takeaways and unhealthy snacks. It's all about finding that balance - treating yourself to your favourite indulgent snack is fine, but always in moderation.

Craving something warm and comforting, like a hearty stew or a delicious soup? BBC Good Food is a fantastic resource for winter recipe inspiration.

 If time is tight but you still want to enjoy great meals, meal kit services like Hello Fresh and Gusto are excellent options. Yes, they require a bit of planning ahead, but imagine having your dinners for the week sorted - no food shopping, no waste, and delicious meals to enjoy at home.

They also offer between 50%-60% off your first box! I've tried Hello Fresh many times and learnt so many new recipes. 

With so much time spent indoors, there’s no better season to enjoy the warmth of a home-cooked dish.


 5. Limit screen time


Everything seemed pretty straightforward until now, right? I know what you're thinking cue eye roll—we’re all glued to our phones.

Here’s the thing: instead of going cold turkey, start small. Set a realistic screen time limit and ease into it—it’s a marathon, not a sprint. Maybe aim to cut back 30 minutes a day. That could mean skipping that morning scroll or putting your phone to bed a little earlier in the evening.

Lately, I've been enjoying curling up in bed with a book - getting lost in another world. It's helped to improve my sleep too as I am notoriously a night owl. Sometimes, I find it hard to switch off if I use my phone too much in the evening, so self-preservation and having boundaries with my phone in the evening is helpful!

Since I work in Marketing and spend 8+ hours a day on screens, carving out even an hour to read, take a bath, exercise, or do yoga or meditation has been such a game-changer. It helps me unwind and reconnect with myself after a long day of staring at my laptop.

Thank you for reading my latest blog post!

If you enjoyed this, you might like my thoughts on outgrowing people, situations, and embracing personal growth—check it out here.

As always, feel free to share your own cosy self-care rituals for winter, in the comments— I’d love to hear from you!

Love Leah x








Embracing growth: Outgrowing people, places, and situations

Thursday, October 31, 2024





Embracing growth: Outgrowing people, places, and situations

It’s perfectly natural to outgrow people, places, and situations as you journey through life.

How do you expect yourself to keep leveling up, if you cling to what no longer serves you? Growth often comes with a cost, and something inevitably has to give.

Have you noticed that during challenging times, you’re drawn—often without realising it—towards negative people and situations? Misery, loves company - especially in low-energy friendships, relationships, and jobs. 

Perhaps you’ve already experienced that 'eureka' moment, or maybe you’re going through a dark night of the soul. This can feel like hitting rock bottom, often manifesting as a crisis in your life—like an ego death or a profound awakening.

Choosing to wake up means embracing discomfort and removing those rose-tinted glasses - even when it's painful. 

Congratulations 👏  you've just taken the first step towards a more authentic life. 

For me, 2020 was a huge eye-opener, not only was it during the pandemic but it was also during the George Floyd and Black Lives Matter movement. This sparked a deep rage within me, I don't know where it came from, I am usually quite a chilled, laid-back person but this felt different. This was a feeling that I couldn't ignore - a feeling that I had been suppressing for most of my life.

 I could feel the anguish etched into my whole being; the same suffering my ancestors encountered.

I couldn't stay silent nor associate myself with anyone who did. 

This felt so much bigger than differences in opinions with friends; it felt personal. This realisation made me confront the harsh reality of my friendships, distinguishing between those who uplifted and supported me and those who simply did not.

Walking away from long-term friendships is hard - especially as a chronic people-pleaser. However, it's not your responsibility to be a peacekeeper; prioritising your own needs must always come first.


It's good spiritual hygiene to re-assess every aspect of your life regularly and be sure to reflect on the following questions:

- Do I feel drained or energised after spending time with this person, in this place, or engaging in this situation?

 -Am I compromising my boundaries or values to maintain this connection?

-Do I feel free to be my authentic self, or am I holding back parts of who I am to fit in?

Remember, as you grow and evolve, setting healthy boundaries and advocating for yourself gets easier. The load begins to feel lighter - you will never compromise on your values again. 

 Trust that anyone or anything you release along the way won’t feel like a loss, but rather a necessary step toward the life you’re meant to live.

Thank you for reading my latest blog post!

Stay tuned for more rambles and adventures 

Love Leah x

Letter To My Future Self

Thursday, February 1, 2018






Do you ever wish that you could teleport back to the past and wave red flags in the air whenever a negative person enters your life? Almost give yourself a heads up and an insight into what is in store for you if you take a certain path? Many of us want to go back to the past to dwell on our situations and try to change our outcomes, although this isn't always the best idea. 

2018 is going to be the year for fresh starts, improved mindsets and better self-care. This year is for forward thinking and focusing more on the future rather than overthinking what cannot be changed from the past.  Last year, I compiled a list of 16 things that I would tell my 16 year old self and to this day, I still take advice from it, and maybe you could too. 

Even though I cannot change what has already occurred, I still have control over what is to come, so without further ado, here is my letter to my future self. 



Dearest Leah, 

How are you doing? How is life in the big ol' corporate world treating ya? You've graduated university now, all of that silly stressing about assignments and a grade on a piece of paper, now means nothing (even still, let me know how you did I am very nosey). I am very proud of you for sticking it out, even when you were at breaking point and rang your parents crying saying you wanted to drop out for doing badly on an assignment. Hahaha, it is all meaningless now, I bet you feel relieved that all that pressure is over! 

Right now, whenever I picture graduation day, I envision it to be one of the greatest days of your life.. a day full of celebration, happiness, and achievement. You did that sis, you did that! Did you cry joyfully when you walked down the aisle of screaming parents? I bet. Right now, you feel negative about how things are going at uni, but hang in there! You will smash it, you always do. 



Do you still keep in contact with the friends that you made at uni?  (I hope so), have you gone down to visit any of them yet? And did you ever go travelling with Em and Lauren after uni, like you said you would?. I know you always wanted to go travelling and visit Bali, so I hope that you had sufficient funds to do so. If not, then what are you waiting for?? Let's get planning.



How are Mum and Dad doing? Oh wow, they must be getting on a bit now, I hope that you look after them when they need you to, like they have for 20 years of your life. Ever since you started Uni Dad has been giving you lifts back and forth to Bristol, whilst occasionally (during 1st year I might add) driving 40 minutes just to bring you clean washing and a food shop.

Appreciate your parents, they won't be around forever, tell them that you love them at the end of every phone call - as you're writing this you're cringing at the thought of having to show any affection in the slightest. Drop this facade right now, it's not cute at all, when you are older you will realise just how silly this sounds. I want you to ring them at least once a week, no matter where you are in the world you must make an effort to contact them regularly. And if you do end up living nearby then I expect you to visit them once a week, minimum. I wonder if Mum will still have a cup of tea and a bowl of mangos waiting for you when you arrive, will she still have her meditation room in the house and will you two still practice it with each other as much as you do now?



Now the big burning question that we're all wondering here is...are you still single? Have you finally managed to find a lucky (or unlucky) guy who can handle you? Have you found someone who doesn't bore you after 5 minutes of conversation and is mentally stimulating enough?  Whether you're in a relationship, married or still single by the time that, you eventually get around to reading this again, I want you to remember that you are complete on your own, you don't need someone else to make you feel whole. Any lucky guy who gets the pleasure of dating you is an accessory. They are an addition to your life (major emphasis on addition), not something that your life should revolve around. Remember who matters most to you - your friends and family and keep them close.



How is the writing coming along sis? Are you reading as much as you should be? Granted, you're currently at uni and you already have loads of assigned readings to do, but once you've graduated, there's no excuse! I want you to set yourself a goal, I know it may seem stupid but I want you to read a book a month...  do you think you can do that? It doesn't have to be 500-page books or massive sequels; it can be a simple poetry book that you finish in one sitting or a 300-page book that takes you a few days to complete. 

You know as well as I do, that the best way for a writer to improve on their writing and really grow as much as possible is to read!. Since you re-launched your blog some months ago and finally dared to share it with the world, you have received an overwhelmingly positive response from friends, family and acquaintances. If that is not proof enough that you are a good writer then I am not sure what else will be. 

Keep at it, stop putting yourself down and don't feel arrogant for admitting that you are good at something, you have met enough arrogant people in your time and you are certainly not one of them. Give credit where it is due, compliment other writers on their work and do as much writing for your Uni newspaper and the Tab Uwe newspaper as you can. Trust me it will really pay off in the future! I one day look forward to stumbling across one of your published books in the shelves of your favourite bookstore, hold onto that feeling you get when you get told that your work is being published. Nothing in life will quite compare to that feeling of fulfilment. 



Now sometimes things can't be as rosy as we want them to be, you will have good days and bad days. Take the bad days as they come and use them as fuel to reflect on in the future. Utilise the good days by documenting them and creating memories. Go outside more, the world is too extraordinary to see from the confines of your 4 bedroom walls. 

Are you still attending meditation classes every week? I know that recently you have been going twice a week, this can be incredibly hard with a busy schedule but I want you to set some time out for yourself, "me" time as they call it. My precious piece of advice for you here is to make time for the things that you love, don't waste your time and energy on people/situations that you don't want to be in. As cliche as this may sound...life is way too short Leah and you never know what could be around the corner for yourself or your friends/family, don't make the terrible mistake of not making enough time for people and then regretting it in later life. 


I hope that you continue growing as a person and moulding into the best possible version of yourself. I hope that you remember me, the younger version of yourself, and smile whilst reading this because you know exactly what is in store for your future.

You've got this!

Love from your slightly naive, immature, younger self

Leah xx