Merry Christmas, friends!

Hey all! I've completely forgotten about blogging over the past week or so, but wanted to pop in and say hello to everyone before the holidays. I know a lot of people are already off work or traveling or just out doing festive things but MERRY CHRISTMAS to all of you! :) 

This time of year is so special and we have been soaking it all in the best we can. Despite the craziness this time of year can sometimes bring, I'm so thankful to be celebrating another Christmas with Jared and with all our various family celebrations this coming week/weekend. I wish everyone the very best and look forward to catching up with everyone next week. Although, that could change to catching up in 2016 if the Bengals keep winning... 

Christmas + Football = One Crazy Erin ;)

Still dreaming of that Super Bowl!

TLFG: 21 December 2015 - 3 January 2016

Greetings one and all and welcome to the Christmas/New Year special of TLFG.

Like a footballing edition of the festive Radio Times, it should have all you need to keep abreast of what's going on in the capital over the next two weeks.

Whether you want to see a Premier League blockbuster, an off-beat Football League thriller or a gritty non-league drama there should be something to suit you.

The usual TLFG Top 10 recommendations section has become a daily guide with lots more matches but in briefer detail - this is because there are so many good games at this time of year, particularly derbies.

Personally I'm hoping for some thrills at QPR and a bit of drama at Harrow Borough but it largely depends on my work schedule which is a bit unpredictable at this time of year.

On Tuesday I did finally get to see a game as my beloved R's played host to title chasing Brighton from Sussex.

Given Albion's close proximity to London, any match against opposition from the capital is pretty much seen as a derby. 

With a journey time of less than 75 minutes from the south coast to Shepherd's Bush by train, it was no surprise to see the visitors bring the best part of 3,000 fans to fill up the away end.

This was particularly notable as no away side, including all the big Premier League clubs, over the last couple of years had been given any more than the upper tier rather than the whole lot.

Anyway, the game was a good one. Rangers shaded a competitive goalless first half before two goals in a minute shortly after the interval put Brighton in total control.

Unfazed, QPR fought back and with the aid of a late red card and superman Charlie Austin's brace of goals, grabbed a share of the spoils. In fact, it could even have been all three points as the hosts came close to scoring again in the seven minutes of injury time which came at the end.

I know one or two TLFG readers were planning to see this game too, so let me know if you made it.

Aside from this, the biggest talking point of the week was undoubtedly the sacking of Jose Mourinho by Chelsea. 

I've said before that I'm actually quite a big fan of the guy but the results have been appalling so it comes as no great shock - if Garry Monk had to go at Swansea, then the Portuguese had no chance.

It's also been interesting to see how much support Chelsea's fans have given Mourinho, laying the blame for their current predicament firmly at the players' feet - not many supporters would've been so sad to see the manager of a failing team go.

I'm sure they'll forget about him soon enough if the results pick up and life without the Special One began well. First-team coaches Eddie Newton and Steve Holland guided them to a 3-1 win over Sunderland while new boss Guus Hiddink watched from the stands alongside Roman Abramovich.

TLFG fact - Eddie Newton was a witness at my wedding. Not many QPR fans can 'boast' of a Chelsea legend playing an important role in their lives!!!

Right, I think that's it from me for a couple of weeks. I hope the holiday season is restful and fun for you and you get to see as much football as possible - with staggered kick-offs, it's possible to see more than one game on some days so check the match maps closely for the details.

LATEST TICKET NEWS

Please follow this link or click on the tab at the top of the page for all the information you need about how to get a ticket, what's currently available to non-members at London's biggest clubs and any other special offers or promotions which might be running.

THE WEEK AHEAD

There are over 130 matches in the London area over the next two weeks so there's plenty to choose from whatever your budget.

However, please make sure you check with clubs before you travel just in case a game has been called off or venue has been changed. Also, please let me know if anything is wrong or missing.

Details on all of this week's games can be found on the following match maps. If you've never used them before, please note that when there is more than one match at a specific ground you'll only be able to see individual match pins if you zoom right in. If you don't, the pins obscure each other and you might miss them. To avoid this, you can also scroll down the list of games on the drop down menu at the top of the map page to make sure you get all the information. Games are listed from top to bottom in date order so Monday's games (yellow pin) will appear first and Sunday's (white pin) last. Games are also ranked in terms of status so the higher the division, the higher up the list they will appear on each day.

Also if you're unfamiliar with the English league structure I indicate the level at which an individual league sits in the national 'pyramid' with the Premier League at the top (Level 1) and various minor leagues at the bottom (Level 10). Typically a top level game will see crowds of anywhere between 20,000-60,000. These figures will gradually decline as you go down the leagues until you get to Levels 8-10 where attendances of 150 or less are most common.

It should also be noted that the top four levels are for fully professional teams. Level 5 has a mixture of professional and semi-professional teams, while Levels 6-10 will see most players paid but it will vary from no more than travel expenses at the bottom, right up to several hundred pounds a week at the top (e.g. clubs in the Conference South).

MATCH MAP 21-25 DECEMBER
Yellow pin - Monday fixtures
Green pin - Tuesday fixtures

MATCH MAP 26-27 DECEMBER

Blue pin - Boxing Day fixtures
White pin - Sunday fixtures

MATCH MAP 28 DECEMBER-1 JANUARY

Yellow pin - Monday fixtures

Green pin - Tuesday fixtures

Black pin - New Year's Day fixtures

MATCH MAP 2-3 JANUARY
Blue pin - Saturday fixtures
White pin - Sunday fixtures

Next up is this week's TLFG match recommendations where I list a few games which I think could be worth a watch. If I miss one that you think should get a mention then add your own in the comments section below.

TLFG's CHRISTMAS CRACKERS

Monday 21 December

Arsenal v Manchester City - battle of second versus third in the Premier League

Sutton United v Concord Rangers - FA Trophy replay with reduced admission prices

Tuesday 22 December

Metropolitan Police v Molesey - local derby in Surrey Senior Cup

Corinthian Casuals v Dulwich Hamlet - all Isthmian League tie in London Senior Cup

Saturday 26 December

Chelsea v Watford - Guus Hiddink takes charge of the Blues for this derby against tricky opponents

Tottenham Hotspur v Norwich City - Spurs look to consolidate top four place 

Brentford v Brighton & Hove Albion - Championship play-off contenders meet for a derby of sorts

Millwall v Walsall - as above but in League One and not a derby

Leyton Orient v Portsmouth - as above but in League Two and kind of a derby

Bromley v Eastleigh - the Ravens welcome National League title chasers from Hampshire

Welling United v Dover Athletic - important for clubs at both ends of National League

Dulwich Hamlet v Kingstonian - top-five clash in Isthmian League Premier Division and also derby of a kind

Hampton & Richmond Borough v Staines Town - a win could put Boro top of the Isthmian League

Harrow Borough v Hendon - groundshare derby in Isthmian League between old, friendly, rivals

North Greenford United v Hanwell Town - derby between very local rivals in the Southern League

Phoenix Sports v Cray Wanderers - Cray look to hold on to top spot in Isthmian 1 North and a south-east London derby

Barking v FC Romania - third versus first in the Essex Senior League

Croydon v AFC Croydon Athletic - Croydon derby, 'nuff said

Sunday 27 December

Wadham Lodge v Ilford - Essex Senior League clash up in E17 

Glebe v Lewisham Borough - top versus bottom in the Kent Invicta League

Monday 28 December

Arsenal v Bournemouth - the Gunners' push for top spot continues against the slayers of Chelsea and Manchester United

Watford v Tottenham Hotspur - derby between teams who both have European ambitions

Charlton Athletic v Wolverhampton Wanderers - the Addicks fight for survival against former Premier League club Wolves

Queens Park Rangers v Huddersfield Town - Rangers go in search of first home win under JFH

Dartford v Margate - Kent derby in National League South

CB Hounslow United v Bedfont & Feltham - groundshare derby between CCL1 title contenders

Tuesday 29 December

Fulham v Rotherham United - fairly uninspiring Championship clash but the best there is on this day

Wingate & Finchley v Enfield Town - north London derby in Isthmian League

Thurrock v Romford - groundshare derby in Isthmian League 1 North

Friday 1 January

Queens Park Rangers v Hull City - QPR entertain Championship title contenders Hull on TV

Saturday 2 January

Watford v Manchester City - another big game for the Hornets as title chasing City come to town

West Ham United v Liverpool - interesting clash in battle for Europa League spots

Fulham v Sheffield Wednesday - best of the rest, worth a go

Dartford v Chelmsford City - the Darts could move into the NLS play-off places with a win here

Hendon v Wingate & Finchley - derby match and 'Pay What You Want' to get in - what a bargain!

Cray Wanderers v Thurrock - top-four clash in Isthmian 1 North

Clapton v London Bari - groundshare derby and a chance to see the Clapton Ultras in festive action

Sunday 3 January

Crystal Palace v Chelsea - London derby featuring a side more than capable of humbling the Blues

GET INVOLVED

If you're going to see a game, whether you're a local or a visitor, please let me know what you've been up to. If you're interested in reviewing a ground within the London area for this blog then get in touch. You might also want to have a go at writing a 'Top Ten' one week. I also very much welcome photos of your football travels.

Got any questions about visiting London? Don't hesitate to ask - be they football or more general travel/touristy queries.

You can contact TLFG through the comments section below or via Facebook, Twitter or even by good old email.

The Weekend Before Christmas (What?!)

I don't remember how I ever blogged five times a week and actually came up with that many things to talk about! This week flew by in a flash and I realized, "Oh yeah- I haven't really blogged have I?" It's probably just normal this time of year for a lot of people so I'm not beating myself up over it ;) I already have a huge list of goals and ideas for the new year so hopefully that fresh start in January will bring extra motivation. Until then, here's a laundry list of what's been going on this week:

Jared and I seriously passed around that gross cold for a good two and a half weeks so I'm glad to report we are both finally over it and are healthy humans again. Whew!

We've changed our mind on vacation a dozen times and still haven't settled on anything. Originally we were thinking a big trip out west but with a little one on the way we've decided against it. We want to go somewhere new (preferably) but trying to keep it within driving distance. And if we are traveling in March, I'd like to head South to chase at least a little bit warmer temperatures.... Decisions, decisions!

And no, Punta Cana is not an option again. I wish!!!

We celebrated my Mom's birthday this week! We grabbed dinner with my parents and then they even loaded up some furniture from our guest-room-turning-nursery to take with them. They're the best :) Also- my dad is now down 34 pounds and counting since September, I'm so proud of him! I look forward to comparing last year's Christmas photos with this year's.

Christmas 2014

I'm practically counting down the minutes until my sister and her family get in town for the holidays! Cannot wait to spend some quality time with them and especially see my niece open gifts this year. At 2 1/2 I feel like that's the perfect age for Christmas excitement :)

The treats at the office this time of year are ridiculous. I guess everyone feels bad that we're stuck there so much in December so they bring in cookies and cupcakes and chocolates to pass the time?! Seriously- I must resist them!!

Hope everyone is having a good week! I'm looking forward to a fun weekend with Jared, finally. Our colds are gone and we have no obligations except dating each other :) I can't wait to spend the weekend before Christmas together doing whatever we want before the hustle and bustle of next week.

Football vs. Christmas

In case you avoided all sports and social media over the weekend (or just don't care!)- our beloved starting quarterback is done. Fractured his thumb in Sunday's game and will be out a few weeks at best, but it's likely that we won't get to see him return this season at all. Yes, I'm crying inside.

Source- USA Today

Yesterday at work it was eerily quiet. We all walked around with our heads hung just a little bit, with a little less pep in our steps than we had last week. It's like the life has been completely sucked out of our offices. To some it might sound silly. Being this intense over a sport. A game, if you will. But football is our life! It's our job! And our winning team was doing things this year that they hadn't done before. The stars were aligning, post-season wins were looking really, REALLY promising.

I can't completely jump ship and proclaim that life is over and we're done for- but we've got some TOUGH weeks ahead of us. Our backup QB will do his best, and all of Cincinnati will be cheering him on- but he's still a backup. He's still not the guy who's been leading our team all season long and rocking at it. So while I mourn Andy Dalton's fractured thumb injury for a little while longer, just know that I haven't completely given up hope in my team this year. That will never happen.

The past few days I've been so wrapped up in football land I kinda' forgot that Christmas is like, HERE. It's tough to juggle football life vs the holidays in December. Hard to believe it's only 10 days away, especially with this warm weather and rain we have going in Ohio. It feels more like Spring right now! But I know the chills and the snow aren't far behind.

So far we have four separate Christmas gatherings on our calendar, four days in a row at that- with Jared and I hosting the final one. As we get our menu together and party-prep I have to know- do you have a go-to holiday appetizer or side we should try out? I've got a rough idea of what we want to make but would love to try something new as well. Suggestions welcome :) Hope everyone is having a wonderful week so far! 

TLFG: 14-20 December 2015

Welcome to this week's TLFG.

I've been a bit overrun so it's a bit of a token effort from me this week I'm afraid.

The match maps are pretty much all I've been able to produce. If I get the chance to add a bit of flesh to the bones then I will but if not, then at least you've got the important information.

I hope to have the Christmas/New Year Special up next weekend - fingers crossed!

Have a great week and be careful with those mince pies.

PS - don't forget, there are still free tickets available for the live broadcasts of London Live's sports debate show 'Kicks Off' tonight (Monday) and on Friday. Get in touch with Luke if you want some.

LATEST TICKET NEWS

Please follow this link or click on the tab at the top of the page for all the information you need about how to get a ticket, what's currently available to non-members at London's biggest clubs and any other special offers or promotions which might be running.

THE WEEK AHEAD

There are over 90 matches in the London area over the next seven days so there's plenty to choose from whatever your budget.

However, please make sure you check with clubs before you travel just in case a game has been called off or venue has been changed. Also, please let me know if anything is wrong or missing.

Details on all of this week's games can be found on the following match maps. If you've never used them before, please note that when there is more than one match at a specific ground you'll only be able to see individual match pins if you zoom right in. If you don't, the pins obscure each other and you might miss them. To avoid this, you can also scroll down the list of games on the drop down menu at the top of the map page to make sure you get all the information. Games are listed from top to bottom in date order so Monday's games (yellow pin) will appear first and Sunday's (white pin) last. Games are also ranked in terms of status so the higher the division, the higher up the list they will appear on each day.

Also if you're unfamiliar with the English league structure I indicate the level at which an individual league sits in the national 'pyramid' with the Premier League at the top (Level 1) and various minor leagues at the bottom (Level 10). Typically a top level game will see crowds of anywhere between 20,000-60,000. These figures will gradually decline as you go down the leagues until you get to Levels 8-10 where attendances of 150 or less are most common.

It should also be noted that the top four levels are for fully professional teams. Level 5 has a mixture of professional and semi-professional teams, while Levels 6-10 will see most players paid but it will vary from no more than travel expenses at the bottom, right up to several hundred pounds a week at the top (e.g. clubs in the Conference South).

MIDWEEK MATCH MAP
Yellow pin - Monday fixtures
Green pin - Tuesday fixtures
Red pin - Wednesday fixtures

WEEKEND MATCH MAP

Blue pin - Saturday fixtures
White pin - Sunday fixtures

GET INVOLVED

If you're going to see a game, whether you're a local or a visitor, please let me know what you've been up to. If you're interested in reviewing a ground within the London area for this blog then get in touch. You might also want to have a go at writing a 'Top Ten' one week. I also very much welcome photos of your football travels.

Got any questions about visiting London? Don't hesitate to ask - be they football or more general travel/touristy queries.

You can contact TLFG through the comments section below or via Facebook, Twitter or even by good old email.

Free audience tickets for 'Jimmy Bullard Kicks Off'

I think for the first time in the history of this blog I'm doing a separate post outside of the normal weekly piece.

That's because I've been approached by the good people at London Live asking whether any of TLFG's readers would like to attend their football debate show 'Jimmy Bullard Kicks Off'.

The East Ham born midfielder is most famous for playing top-flight football for Wigan Athletic, Fulham and Hull City and also gained attention outside the game when he appeared on the 2014 edition of 'I'm A Celebrity Get Me Out Of Here'.

The show records tomorrow (Friday 11 December) at the TV channel's High St Kensington studios and you'd need to be there for 6pm for a bit of pre-show preparation and chat with Jimmy. The show itself broadcasts live from 7-8pm.

Once again, tickets are free so get in touch with Luke (luke.dolan@londonlive.co.uk) on the production team as soon as possible if you want to go. You're encouraged to wear club shirts/colours if you have them but it's not compulsory.

If you can't make it tomorrow, there are also places available for Monday (14 December) when former Chelsea and Spurs player Jason Cundy hosts and also next Friday (18 December) when Jimmy takes over again.

Enjoy and maybe see you there.

There are Always Highlights

This week's been a rough one. I try not to be one to complain too often (at least not here on the blog) but sometimes life just gets you down in the dumps. After all the fun of last week, this week has certainly made sure it was anything but. I got Jared's yucky cold and have been feeling pretty miserable this week. And you know how when you don't feel good EVERYTHING else seems about 10 times worse than it is.

So I've been whining and coughing my way through one of the most demanding weeks at work I've had in awhile. The Bengals are currently at the top of the division so playoff prep is in full force over here. Sure, anything could still happen but it's very likely the Bengals will host at least one playoff game here- and we're hoping for two games! Between that and one of our biggest rivals coming in town this weekend (Boooo... Steelers!) it's been a headache.

Are you tired of this nonsensical ramble yet? Because I am! I really am. I've been no fun this week and now that I got that rant out of the way I did want to share the highlights as of late. There are always highlights to be found even when a crummy week hits you head on.

Highlights include:

Those new appliances. Seriously guys- I might just turn into Rachael Ray. That's how inspired I feel. Jared makes fun of me because I've been greeting them every day when I get home. "Hi, new fridge!! Stove! I love you!" My life is changed and the recipe section of this blog might just blow up soon!

Wrapping presents. Our tree is just so much prettier with boxes and bags all wrapped underneath.

Reaching the 2nd trimester. HOLLA! It just feels like such a feat! PLUS, the date we'll find out the gender of the baby is officially on the calendar and I am absolutely counting down already. Now where's my glow?

Getting our Christmas cards out in the mail. I "splurged" and got some cute address labels this year which made them more fun and less work ;) I love checking our mailbox this time of year, too!

Christmas season in general. Despite being sick this week, I still enjoyed some hot cocoa in my Christmas pjs, looked at lights and watched The Santa Clause with Jared. I think we're on track to watch more movies this holiday season than ever.... not mad about that!

Now everyone just pray I can hold it together long enough to enjoy at least a little bit of my work's Christmas party tonight. Happy Thursday! 

A Little Baby Update

I definitely don't want to overload my blog or my friends with pregnancy/baby related posts but since a few people have been asking I figured I'd spill some details today and get you all caught up on the biggest secret I've ever kept. If this stuff doesn't interest you feel free to skip right on over it- I'll be back to food and football and everything else the rest of this week ;) Plus- the only photos I have today are via Snapchat. #2015yo

On October 1st I took a test and saw THE faintest line ever show up. It was so incredibly faint that I carried the test to practically every room in the house comparing lighting and trying to decide if I was crazy, pregnant or both. I was convinced it wasn't there, but still picked up a digital test later that day and made myself wait one more day before testing that one. Digital tests are EXPENSIVE, no way I was risking a "no" just by taking it too early!

October 2nd confirmed it all. That digital test read "pregnant" and I waited about 30 seconds before telling Jared. A week earlier I'd bought him a new Bengals shirt, as I typically get him something new from work each season- but I'd also picked up the onesie that I used in our announcement pictures. So I went and told him I'd gotten him something new and showed him the shirt and then said, "And this is for our baby." At first he laughed it off, because I've been known to purchase a baby item or two when I see a good deal. But then I reiterated, "No, really. The baby we're having." He was so surprised and then excited- it was awesome. I will never forget those moments!!

October 20th I had my first appointment to confirm pregnancy and they were pretty sure I was 6 weeks along, but that would be confirmed a couple weeks later with our first ultrasound. Jared set me up with a massage package at a local spa with a note saying I was going to be a great mom. Things are feeling REAL!

October 23rd we were able to take those quick announcement photos thanks to my brother-in-law and that would be the photo we'd use to tell our parents, siblings, grandparents and eventually some friends. We told both sets of ours parents over that weekend and BOTH grandma's-to-be already had baby gifts for us they had stashed away for 'when that time came' haha. They are all so excited :)

November 3rd was the first ultrasound and OB appointment. Got to see our tiny little blobby baby. Heartbeat was 160 and measuring exactly 8 weeks.

November 9th counts as my first craving, I think. I saw Uncrustables at Kroger (never had them in my life) and could NOT pass them up. I bought a mega box of them and enjoyed them A LOT.

December 2nd I told my department at work. I'd already told my boss since I'd been feeling crummy many days, but the news finally started to spread around the office. It's incredibly awkward telling all your male coworkers that you're pregnant. Had my 12 week appointment after work that day, heartbeat was nice and strong at 152!

Two days after finding out- I'll never be that size again! ;) // The gifts // Our baby has no choice // My real life "bumpdate"

It honestly feels surreal to be writing these things! I've enjoyed watching/reading so many of my own friends and family go through pregnancy that it's crazy awesome to be experiencing it myself now. Overall I have felt really good, which in turn makes me feel super lucky. I've had the normal fatigue of the first trimester and the evenings are toughest on me. I seem to have no appetite for dinner, but then feel sick if I don't eat enough. Luckily, even those small things are subsiding and I'm ready for that second trimester energy everyone talks about. Bring it on! :)

TLFG: 7-13 December 2015

Greetings one and all and Happy Hanukkah if you're celebrating.

This seems particularly relevant this week as I received thousands of page views from Israel on Saturday, something that's never happened before and is probably from some kind of bot that distorts blog readership figures but if not and TLFG was mentioned in an article or forum then welcome.

Personally it's been another busy week which has left no time for watching live football but I've kept abreast of things the best I can.

It's almost impossible to believe that Chelsea lost again and to Bournemouth of all teams. As a QPR fan it's hard not to enjoy their malaise but I'm not one to crow and I actually quite like Jose Mourinho so to see him struggle so much isn't something I relish - however, I'm not going to lose any sleep over it. In fact, I even pondered whether I'd sacrifice promotion this year to see the Blues relegated - it would probably give me almost as much satisfaction! 

Anyway, that's a rare bit of partisan editorial from me - apologies.

Fancy a bargain? Get along to Barkingside

Thanks again for your emails this week. It's been great hearing how TLFG has helped people plan their football watching, visits to London and the UK as a whole. Keep them coming, it makes all the effort worthwhile.

It's also always great when clubs run special promotions to get new people in. Well on Monday (7 December), Barkingside are inviting you to 'Pay What You Want' for their Isthmian League match against Thamesmead Town. 

The Ilford club ran a similar promotion on Non-League Day back in October and should be commended for repeating what some may see as a risky scheme so soon after.

If you're free, and especially if you live on the east side of town, get yourself down to Cricklefields which is only a short walk from Seven Kings station on the line out of Liverpool Street.

Whatever the league, please let me know if you're club are offering any special deals and I'll do my best to promote them.

Have a great week. 

LATEST TICKET NEWS

Please follow this link or click on the tab at the top of the page for all the information you need about how to get a ticket, what's currently available to non-members at London's biggest clubs and any other special offers or promotions which might be running.

THE WEEK AHEAD

There are over 90 matches in the London area over the next seven days so there's plenty to choose from whatever your budget.

However, please make sure you check with clubs before you travel just in case a game has been called off or venue has been changed. Also, please let me know if anything is wrong or missing.

Details on all of this week's games can be found on the following match maps. If you've never used them before, please note that when there is more than one match at a specific ground you'll only be able to see individual match pins if you zoom right in. If you don't, the pins obscure each other and you might miss them. To avoid this, you can also scroll down the list of games on the drop down menu at the top of the map page to make sure you get all the information. Games are listed from top to bottom in date order so Monday's games (yellow pin) will appear first and Sunday's (white pin) last. Games are also ranked in terms of status so the higher the division, the higher up the list they will appear on each day.

Also if you're unfamiliar with the English league structure I indicate the level at which an individual league sits in the national 'pyramid' with the Premier League at the top (Level 1) and various minor leagues at the bottom (Level 10). Typically a top level game will see crowds of anywhere between 20,000-60,000. These figures will gradually decline as you go down the leagues until you get to Levels 8-10 where attendances of 150 or less are most common.

It should also be noted that the top four levels are for fully professional teams. Level 5 has a mixture of professional and semi-professional teams, while Levels 6-10 will see most players paid but it will vary from no more than travel expenses at the bottom, right up to several hundred pounds a week at the top (e.g. clubs in the Conference South).

MIDWEEK MATCH MAP
Yellow pin - Monday fixtures
Green pin - Tuesday fixtures
Red pin - Wednesday fixtures
Purple pin - Thursday fixtures

WEEKEND MATCH MAP

Blue pin - Saturday fixtures
White pin - Sunday fixtures

Next up is this week's TLFG match recommendations where I list a few games which I think could be worth a watch. If I miss one that you think should get a mention then add your own in the comments section below.

TLFG TOP 10

1. Chelsea v Porto - the disaster continued for the Blues on Saturday as they suffered another unthinkable defeat at home to newly promoted Bournemouth. The patience and faith owner Roman Abramovich is showing in Jose Mourinho right now is quite staggering and at the same time commendable. On Wednesday they face a big Champions League game against Porto, the club Mourinho originally made his name with. Thankfully for the Portuguese, things have gone relatively well in this competition so far and they're top going into this final group game. Given their goal difference, a draw should be enough to progress. (Champions League, Wednesday 9 December, 745pm. Ticket info)

2. Tottenham Hotspur v Monaco - Spurs have already booked their place in the last 32 of the Europa League but they haven't made sure of top spot which Anderlecht could still pip them to. Monaco are third and have everything to play for. They aren't the side they once were and should be beatable but they bring an air of glamour and can still field a few familiar faces. They enjoyed a 2-1 win at struggling Bastia on Saturday to stay fourth in the French top flight but, as you may have seen, it's a pretty weak competition which PSG are totally dominating being already a whopping 15 points clear after only 17 games. Tottenham picked up a point at West Brom to stay fifth. All tickets have been reduced to £25 and are still available. (Europa League, Thursday 10 December, 805pm. Ticket info)

3. West Ham United v Stoke City - if it's a bit of domestic action you crave then get yourself to the Boleyn Ground. The Hammers are still up in the top six but I'm not quite sure how after extending their winless run to five games on Saturday. Although they picked up a fine point with a 0-0 draw at Old Trafford against Manchester United, it's been a disappointing six weeks for Slaven Bilic's side. When most fans look at their fixture list and see 'Stoke at home' they probably think they've got a good chance of winning but under Mark Hughes, and Tony Pulis before him, they have become tough, professional and generally hard to beat. On Saturday the Potters humbled Manchester City at the Britannia Stadium and are unbeaten on their last three visits to east London so will be dangerous opponents. Also, don't forget that the historic Boleyn Ground is closing at the end of the season so if you're an infrequent visitor to London this could be your last chance to see a game there. (Premier League, Saturday 12 December, 3pm. Ticket info)

4. Fulham v Brentford - we've got a mouthwatering west London derby to look forward to at Craven Cottage on Saturday in the Championship. These two were big rivals in the lower two divisions of the Football League for most of the 20th century but following Mohamed al-Fayed's investment in the Cottagers in the late '90s and their rise to the Premier League, games between the clubs became non-existent. Last season they were reunited in the second tier and played their first matches since 1998. Fulham picked up an early win in the League Cup but the honours in the league itself went resoundingly to Brentford. This season, both clubs have already sacked their managers. The Bees have just brought in Dean Smith from Walsall while Fulham have yet to appoint a full-time replacement. The Bees are in much better form and their fans will almost certainly be the more vocal so it's looking like an away win for me. (Championship, Saturday 12 December, 3pm. Ticket info)

5. Queens Park Rangers v Burnley - a short ride on the 220 bus to the north we have another important day in the never dull history of QPR. After defeating Reading on Thursday night, interim manager Neil Warnock stepped down to be replaced by Jimmy Floyd Hasselbaink. The former Dutch international striker who won the Premier League Golden Boot twice with Leeds United and Chelsea, joins from League One leaders Burton Albion with whom he won promotion with last season. Although his managerial career has begun well, he still seems to be a bit of a punt in my opinion and he could find the often chaotic goings on at Loftus Road too much to handle. Good luck to him though and he'll need to be focused to get a result against an impressive Burnley side. The Clarets got relegated from the Premier League with the R's in May but have begun this season much better than their hosts and boast outspoken former QPR captain Joey Barton in their squad. (Championship, Saturday 12 December, 3pm. Ticket info)

6. Boreham Wood v Woking - there's not a great deal going on in League One and League Two this week so next up we have a game from the FA Trophy which has reached the 'first round proper' stage. This means the big boys of the National League's top division join the draw and things start to get serious. With former Championship clubs like Grimsby Town and Tranmere Rovers now involved, this tie is between relative minnows despite being in the same division. As I've mentioned several times before, The Wood have never played at this level so are kind of living the dream and taking each game as it comes. On attendance alone, they are the smallest club in division averaging just over 600 a game (a 92% increase on last season such is the step up in opposition). They are struggling on the pitch but are keeping their heads above water - just. The Cards, on the other hand, are far more established at this level and have started to turn results around after a bit of a wobble. They also won this competition three times during the '90s and made it to the final again in 2006 so have a fantastic record. It's also a bit of derby too with only a relatively short journey around the western side of the M25 separating them. (FA Trophy First Round, Saturday 12 December, 3pm. Ticket info)

7. Corinthian Casuals v Hungerford Town - the other London-based tie is a much more humble affair between clubs from the eighth and seventh tiers respectively. CCs are a very historic club formed when two of the oldest amateur clubs in the world (Corinthian and Casuals) merged in 1939. Corinthian were the inspiration for the foundation of Brazilian giants Corinthians and the two clubs maintain strong links to this day with a friendly between the two in Sao Paulo taking place at the beginning of this year. In the league, CCs are having a pretty good time of things in the Isthmian League Division 1 South and with games in hand are well placed to have a crack at the play-offs. Hungerford, however, are in with a shot at the Southern League title and will definitely start as favourites. (FA Trophy First Round, Saturday 12 December, 3pm. Club info)

8. Carshalton Athletic v Herne Bay - one of CCs south London and promotion rivals are Carshalton who after a turbulent time following relegation are mounting a serious promotion challenge to get back into the Isthmian Premier. Currently sitting in fourth, they welcome Herne Bay to Colston Avenue on Saturday for an important game. Just two points behind but with three games in hand, the Kent club represent the kind of strong opposition they'll need to beat to be considered as realistic contenders. (Isthmian League Division 1 South, Saturday 12 December, 3pm. Ticket info)

9. Colliers Wood United v Hartley Wintney - think you might prefer a bit of knockout cup football? Well it's also an FA Vase weekend too. This competition has reached its third round stage so we've still got 64 teams left. Not many from the London area remain but one who will be representing us proudly are CWU. Sadly I fear they won't get much further as the visitors are in fine form, topping the Combined Counties League with a seven-point lead. They last met back in August at the Wibbandune and Hartley won 3-1. (FA Vase Third Round, Saturday 12 December, 3pm. Club info)

10. Edgware Town v Ipswich Wanderers - elsewhere in the Vase, the Wares will also be looking to cause an upset and in my book have the better chance. Although playing a level below their Suffolk opponents, Edgware have been doing really well losing only once in the Spartan South Midlands League Division 1 all season. Ipswich are in the lower half of the Eastern Counties Premier and have lost as many as they've won. (FA Vase Third Round, Saturday 12 December, 3pm. Club info)

GET INVOLVED

If you're going to see a game, whether you're a local or a visitor, please let me know what you've been up to. If you're interested in reviewing a ground within the London area for this blog then get in touch. You might also want to have a go at writing a 'Top Ten' one week. I also very much welcome photos of your football travels.

Got any questions about visiting London? Don't hesitate to ask - be they football or more general travel/touristy queries.

You can contact TLFG through the comments section below or via Facebook, Twitter or even by good old email.

Sunday Scramble

It's Sunday morning. There's a lucky candle burning, buffalo chicken dip in the oven, cold beverages in our (brand new!) refrigerator and my Bengals are 9-2 leading up to today's 1p.m. kickoff. Could life really get any better at this point? Well, yes. A big division win today over the Browns would feel pretty darn good.

At work this past week we've been discussing all the various scenarios of our Bengals and how/when they can clinch their playoff spot officially. There's only five more weeks of the regular season! FIVE. I feel like this season has been flying by but man, I'm anxious to jump ahead to the playoffs and see how my guys do! For any non-football fans reading along, the Bengals haven't won a playoff game since 1991 and it seems to be the only thing people can talk about this time of year when discussing our team. I'm ready to WIN that playoff game and then some!

This time of year I'm always buying up tons of Bengals gear for all the fans in our family- which is a LOT. Sometimes I worry that people will tire of receiving orange and black goodies for Christmas, but it never happens! The NFL Shop never runs out of stylish, new gear for their fans. Recently I treated myself to a couple new items that are perfect for tailgating OR "homegating" as well. 

Jared might be sick of seeing this on me, but I can't get enough of this hoody. Comfy, unique from any of my other Bengals stuff and those buttons? SO great. It's cozy and warm plus hides the awkward not-quite-a-baby-bump thing I have going on while still looking game-ready. It works with jeans or leggings, boots or flats- everything!

So if your team is in the playoff hunt like mine -or even if they aren't- be sure to stock up at the NFL Shop for you and the other people on your list this year, too! The push for the playoffs is always the craziest, most exciting time of year for us and there aren't many days I don't wear Bengals gear. Now if you'll excuse me... I've got some cheering to do and my voice to lose today! WHODEY.

I was selected for this opportunity as a member of Clever Girls and the content and opinions expressed here are all my own.

Friday Five.

What a great week it's been- I'm jumping right into my Friday 5 today:

1. Seriously- you guys are the BEST. The messages and love from yesterday were incredible- we feel so loved! It's one thing as you tell your friends and family.. you're generally telling people one by one, or in small groups. But wow- the outpouring from going "public" all at once was truly overwhelming- in a good way. Thank you EVERYONE for all your kind words. Jared and I thrilled... and maybe still slightly terrified ;)

2. Obviously our biggest news kinda' trumps everything but I'm still excited that our new appliances are being delivered today!! We FINALLY bit the bullet and upgraded our ancient appliances with new ones. A fridge with ice/water in the door, a flat-top stove that will cook things evenly and an actual working dishwasher. Hallelujah! Hoping this will motivate me to get back at the meal planning, too.

3. Tonight is our first festive event of the season- Jared's work party! Although I have zero idea what I'm wearing to it yet,  I know it'll be a good time. They always have a lot of fun prizes and casino games with fake money to play. My kinda' gambling!

4.  Our Christmas cards! I went with a new company this year, Photo Affections. I found a deal on Living Social and went for it and I'm super happy with how they turned out. I can only reveal the back of them right now, sorry ;)

5. A free, non-working weekend! Somehow this weekend got here and Jared and I have no commitments Saturday or Sunday which makes me one happy gal. We can play catch-up on a few things, lazy around if we want and you better believe I'm going to start wrapping gifts this weekend! It's always one of my favorite parts each year.

Enjoy your weekend friends!

Whodey Baby!

There's a new little Bengals fan on the way to The Jungle...

Coming June 2016!!

You could say we're pretty excited about our little Whodey Baby!

Favorite Things {GIVEAWAY!}

It's been awhile since I've hosted a giveaway on this little blog of mine and now feels like the perfect time to do so! A few of my favorite blogger buddies and I have teamed up to give one lucky winner a few of our favorite things. We're all busy shopping for everyone else this time of year, so why not enjoy a little gift all for yourself? :)

I added in a colorful MayBook, plus those amazing Bic Mark-It pens and some neon post-it's as well. If you've read this blog a time or two you know I'm an office supply nerd and those are all must-have's of mine. The notebooks are soft and small, easy to throw in a purse, take on vacation, etc. and the markers are just fabulous. Someone gave some to me as a gift a couple years ago and I am 100% hooked on them.

This prize pack is valued at over $75!! The three other lovely ladies contributed goodies including Adele's new CD, a Starbucks giftcard, a festive mug, gorgeous earrings, fun holiday socks and more! Be sure to check out their blogs as well.

Kristin

Pinky

Kayla

Enter today through Sunday, December 6th at midnight- we'll announce our winner Monday morning! Good luck :) 

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Happy December!

Happy DECEMBER, everyone! It feels surreal to be saying that right now. Over the past few days Jared and I have been getting out all our Christmas decor and I swear it doesn't feel like a year since we did this last. Definitely not complaining though since decorating our home for the holidays is one of my favorite things to do with Jared.

I love how getting out the ornaments for the tree each year feels like a new discovery. We exclaim with joy over our favorite ones and reminisce about vacations we collected certain ornaments. Every time we visit somewhere new we try to pick up an ornament and I love how special that makes our tree. This year we got to add ornaments from Washington D.C., (another) Hilton Head Island ornament plus two from our visits to the Rock n' Roll HOF and the Football HOF.

It's December 1st and I've got about 90% of my shopping done for everyone which feels GREAT. I always try to get a good start on things but feel like we end up being last minute still. This year I'm ON it :) I'm still working on a few more things for Jared and then I'll be just about done. We also just pulled out 4 brand new rolls of wrapping paper we bought on mega-clearance after Christmas last year that we'd forgotten about. Love the little surprises like that! Now I can't wait to wrap everything up- another favorite part of this time of year.

This month is already packed to the brim with fun and festivities but I honestly cannot wait. Having the shopping done leaves room for more fun and less stress. I've got two holiday parties on the calendar, a day of baking, a Christmas musical/play, 4 separate actual Christmas get-togethers with family and I know there will be more! Bring it on, December- I'm ready to celebrate all month long :)