Around this time of year I usually start to think about buying a diary in time for the New Year.  In the past I’ve found this quite difficult because, well, I’m a little bit fussy.  I don’t like novelty diaries.  Furry covers, girly stickers and pictures of last year’s X-Factor winner are not for me.  I like a classic style diary in black or brown with a book mark and good quality paper.  Oh, and I don’t need to know about every fashion event taking place in London (nope, couldn’t really give a flying one).  Nor do I want to pay £250 for the privilege.

Up until last year this has proved harder than you’d think.  That is until I discovered the Moleskine.  I can’t tell you how much I love their diaries and notebooks.  Every diary is handmade and has a unique quality control number.  They have soft covers and acid free paper, are handstitched, have an expanding pocket to store bits and bobs and a ribbon bookmark.  And from just £10.95 you really can’t grumble.

Though I’d never heard of Moleskines until last year, apparently they’re legendary and the choice of Van Gogh, Picasso and Ernest Hemingway.  So I’m in good company.