This time last year I was finishing my first year as a student nurse. I was single, had a great group of University friends and had a few lovely plans for the summer - including a fab day at No Tomorrow Festival in Nottingham, where I saw Sam Smith!

This year however, I'm taking time away from University. I've moved back to Northampton and I'm starting work for a mental health service doing admin bits. It's decent money, it's easy work, and all I care about is the wage packet come the end of the month.

Last summer was a bit of a disaster despite what I'd mentioned earlier, and so I wanted this year to be filled with memories and lovely moments, lot's of smiles and maybe even a sun tan! I've decided to write a list, after being inspired by Tanya Burr's Blog which you can read here!

1.) Barcelona!

This is one thing that Luke and I have already booked. I love exploring cities and Barcelona has been one Luke and I have been lusting over for months. We finally took the plunge, emptied one of our little piggy banks, and booked a 5 day trip to Barcelona, in the month of July. It was actually really really cheap, so if you want to go, I would definitely recommend you book it! We are excited to go to Park Guell, Park Nou and of course dip our toes in the sea! 

2.) Brighton!   

I have wanted to spend a weekend in Brighton for ages. Beautiful shops and a good old traditional English seaside is just what I love. I've never actually been, but myself and Luke have seen really cheap getaways on airbnb.co.uk, and so I really recommend if you want a cheap room you have a nosy on there and book yourself a weekend away.

3.) BBQ's with my friends! 

This was actually meant to happen a few weeks ago but due to the Great British weather we had to postpone. Luckily I managed to freeze my homemade burgers! I love spending time with my closest girlfriend Jasmine, and her other half, and can't think of a better way than to have a few beers and burgers. 

4.) Go to some of the Local Festivals! 

I live in Northampton and have always been really proud of the local music scene. In Northampton we have the Umbrella Festival which is a great "green" festival. A lot of local music acts perform here, and all I'm hoping is that it happens again this year! We also have "Alive at Delapre" but this festival has the likes of Mcbusted playing, and costs quite a bit of money. It's definitely worth having a look in your local area about the events on during the summer, you might even be surprised. 

5.) Wear a Beautiful Summery Dress! 

Most years I refrain from summer dresses, and feel that they make me look frumpy and horrid. This summer however I want to embrace the warm weather and wear dresses, skirts and maybe even a playsuit! 

Most of all, all I want is for myself and my family to have a really wonderful summer!

Ellie x