It was my birthday yesterday and I’d chosen to take the day off work to have a bit of a “me” day.

The birthday celebrations had actually officially started a little earlier on Saturday, when James and I went for a drink at Craft Asylum #1 (previously Candlebar) for Wharfest. We’d been a few years ago and spent a relaxing afternoon there visiting all three bars, eating and drinking plenty, and enjoying the music. It was a little different this year as we had JJ with us, who’s just started walking. Not quite as relaxing! But we still managed a full hour before calling it a day!

After enjoying a cup of tea in bed, reading my book (what a luxury!), I caught the train into Leeds and went for breakfast at East Parade Social. I walk past this eatery/meeting place every day on my way to work and have been meaning to visit it for ages as it looks so welcoming. I finally went in yesterday and it’s got such a nice vibe. Light, bright, chilled and comfy. The kind of place I’d love to take my laptop and spend a few hours writing (I can but dream.) Admittedly the hot chocolate was a little disappointing (for the best hot chocolate in Leeds you need to head to Hepworth’s Deli) and the croissant was very standard, but I’d still go back to try the lunch as I just love the set up and atmosphere.

I then did a bit of window shopping before heading to the Corn Exchange to get a manicure at Ragdoll Nails, another place I’ve been meaning to go to for ages but never got round to it until now. Whenever I see one of their Instagram posts I aways want to make an appointment as their designs look so fun and stylish.

I absolutely loved having my nails done here and will definitely be going back. Jasmine did mine and was a real pro, explaining what she was doing and checking with me at every stage that I was happy with what she’d done. I went for a rockstar manicure – shellac with foil (or you can have glitter or pigment) and just love how they look!

I wandered round the Corn Exchange for a bit; I do love that building. I made sure to pop in to some of my favourite shops there, including Giant Kitten which is great for birthday cards and gifts, and Little Pink Wardrobe, where I treated myself to some jewellery.

Next I headed to The Electric Press to meet my friend Kirsty at the Greek restaurant, Souvlaki. Although the atmosphere was a bit lacking (we were the only two people in) the food was delicious. I had lamb kebab with chips, pitta and tzatziki sauce. Yum!

I headed home, making it back in time to go to the cinema at the White Rose Shopping Centre to watch How to Train Your Dragon: The Hidden World (which was cute, but not as good as the first two films in the franchise.)

It was a lovely way to spend my birthday and a free day in Leeds. I’m always keen to stretch out the birthday celebrations, so I’m going for a family lunch at the weekend to George’s Great British Kitchen. Happy birthday to me!